Job hunting is a lot like fishing. You might get lucky and land the big one on your first attempt. On the other hand, you could invest a lot of time and effort casting out numerous applications and end up having nothing to show for it. No one can guarantee either will happen, but there are ways to improve your chances.

When I was a kid I did a lot of fishing in my summer holidays. For years it was all about luck. Find some water, bait a hook, cast the line ... and hope. When an uncle of mine started joining us on our holidays, he taught me how to be a bit smarter about my fishing. Later, as a recruitment consultant, I realised that much of what my uncle had shared with me is relevant to the typical job search.

Be clear about the job you want

Effective fishing means using the right bait with the right equipment - especially the right-sized hook - for the type of fish you are trying to catch. The same applies to job search.

The tone of your application letters, the detail and emphasis in your resume, the way you dress for, and answer questions in, the interview. All of these will be different, dependent on whether you are going for a CEO role or a junior administrative role, or something in between.

Target specific industries and companies

My uncle taught me the importance of finding good spots to fish: rock-pools, deep water channels, sheltered areas, and so on. Job hunting is the same: the more targeted you can be, the more chance you give yourself of landing the ideal role.

Find out which organisations are most active in your desired industry and approach them. Read trade magazines to become familiar with what is going on and who's who. Apply directly to your 'dream' employers: whether they are actively advertising or not.

Ask around

Perhaps the most important thing I learnt from my uncle was the importance of local knowledge. We were always asking the locals where we should fish. Sure, they may have sent us to the second-best place and kept the best to themselves, but we were still better off than all those 'random' fishers.

The lesson: don't be afraid to ask. Ask former colleagues, customers and others in your industry what they know. Ask people who report the news in your industry. Ask friends and neighbours.

Advertise yourself

Fishing was a topic of camping conversation whether we were actually fishing or not. My uncle would always be chatting to people and he would always, in these chats, turn the conversation to fishing. Nearly every time, he was able to glean additional local information as a result.

You can use a similar strategy when searching for a new job, particularly if you've been made redundant. The important thing is not to keep your situation to yourself. Let people know, when the chance arises, what your situation is. Your local community, former bosses, pretty much anyone. When you do this, you effectively gain an army of job search assistants and increase your chances of finding out about the plum job that hasn't even been advertised.

Use technology to help

Walk into a modern fishing supplies shop and you'll realise that the pastime has moved well past the era of a hook hanging from a stick. While it's easy to go overboard, the fishing experience can be made much more pleasant through use of some quite inexpensive, readily available tools.

The modern job hunt is no different. There are job search websites, networking tools like LinkedIn and Twitter, and all sorts of resume-building and personality-testing widgets out there to try. You may not use them all, but do spend some time getting to know what's there so you can make a considered decision about where to invest your time.

Job hunting need not be a completely random hit-and-miss affair. By using the proven strategies of others, you'll greatly increase your chances of catching a prize-sized job in a short time.

Chances are if you are getting bored during your interviews, so is the audience and the interviewer.

One of the most common and dreaded (I might add) attachments I am prone to receive as an interviewer, are Questions that either my guest or publicist has diligently typed up thinking that they are being prudent as well as thoughtful of me, the host.

Now don't get me wrong. I appreciate anything that makes my job easier, a good bio goes a long way, but when it comes to questions, well, I want to ask questions I want to ask!!!. Ones I don't even KNOW I am going to ask.

You see, I think it's my job as an interviewer and radio host, to get curious about my guest. I take great pride in reading the books I am sent by authors, and I love to explore the depth of their work, the author behind the book as well as said book might change/help the reader.

I want to ask the question I think my audience wants to know the answers too. I figure that if I am curious and conversational, then my listeners are being entertained as well as educated.

Now Listen UP. There is a big difference between being well prepared for an interview, knowing your material inside out, and just reading answers off a sheet of paper.

The more interviews you do this way, the more you will begin to resent them.

I am often told that my guests had the best time, it was the BEST interview they've had so far. What a wonderful host I am, etc.

I believe they feel this way because there is energy in the room. It isn't the same old same old routine.

Like I said earlier, I have a conversational style that lends itself to opinions, differing points of view, while at the same time, making sure that my guest is the important person in the room and that they are well taken care of. It's my job to make them look good.

I prefer to engage my guest in a transformational conversation, one that is interesting to all of us, guest, listener and host.

The way I see it, if I am supposed to ask a series of questions that are put in front of me, then I don't need to listen to the answers. I am just waiting to ask the next question.

I think it's better for all of us if I Listen to what my guest has to say, and then proceed with curiosity and sincerity to find out more about them.

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1. Obtain the name, title, correct spelling and PRONUNCIATION for all interviewers. This information will come in handy when you mail or email your interview thank you letters.

2. Know the position for which you are interviewing and review relevant duties and responsibilities. Be sure to ask about short and long term goals for the position during your interview.

3. Note the location/address of the interview. Find out where to park; the best way to get to appointment by train, car or bus; where you should check-in when you arrive; and if any barriers exist.

4. Secure interview schedule and agenda in advance, if possible. Be sure to confirm the time, location, and contact person at least 24 hours in advance. To be safe, take down the name of the person you are going to interview with as well as their assistant or HR contact.

5. Research the organization and/or job. Check the company's website for information or go to the library and research industry and corporate relevant publications, look in the newspaper, and/or ask friends/colleagues/family/professional networks. Also, by researching the company you will be able to ascertain the professional benefits, stability and growth potential of that company and what that means to you. Be prepared to answer the question "Why do you want to work here?

6. Prepare and practice for questions you may be asked. Have "prove it" answers ready. Practice linking soft skills (work traits) to some answers. Begin to recall major achievements. Memorize your resume. Interviewers will ask you questions based on information provided in your resume.

7. Compile questions you need to ask and write them in your note pad. You should always have three questions prepared. One of the questions should recap the key responsibilities of the position.

8. Collect and have handy information for completing an application, including full addresses and phone numbers of employers and schools.

9. Pack for the interview (briefcase or folder): extras résumés, reference list, pens, company card file, note pad, tissues, mints, application information, certificates of training and any items you were asked to bring. You should always have a minimum of two resumes on hand.

10. Dress conservatively and practice good grooming. Avoid heavy
make-up and scents. Remember to clean nails, shine your shoes and clean your eyeglass lenses.

Keep in mind that an interview is similar to a sales call.

You must distill VALUE.

Show an employer that you are a wise investment worth their time in training and development. Let the interviewer see who you are as a manager, problem solver, team member/builder and resource developer/manager with humility. Remember, you're an intelligent, innovative and proven professional and with lots to offer but at a fair price.

You can not open the newspaper or watch a news broadcast without being aware of how many Americans are losing their jobs. As devastating as this can be how you handle it is very important for both your financial security and peace of mind. If you follow some of the steps below hopefully we can make a very difficult time a little easier.

First, make sure you collect all of the wages that are owed to you by your former employer. Not just your salary, but any vacation and sick pay owed to you should be collected. If you were promised a bonus or are owed commissions make sure you collect those also. Don't let the employer intimidate you.

Second, check into your health insurance to see how you can take advantage of COBRA. It is now more important than ever to make sure you have coverage in case of an emergency. Going to the doctor or the hospital without insurance, could cost you all of your savings.

Next, check with your states unemployment to see if you are eligible. If you are fill out the forms as soon as possible so you can receive your first check quickly. The basic amount of time for unemployment is 26 weeks. But now with the high rate of unemployment extensions are being given. Make sure you check all of your options.

In addition, don't be embarrassed many people are losing their jobs today through no fault of their own. Tell people, talk about it. Don't isolate yourself. You never know when you are talking to someone they may know of a position for you.

Lastly, take this opportunity to evaluate what you want to do with the rest of your life. This a perfect time to consider starting your own business. Many folks are looking to online home businesses. Even if at first it is only part time it can grow into a full time profitable endeavor. Most important, don't get down on yourself, keep a positive attitude and think of this whole experience as a new beginning.

How to: Handle Job Loss
Advice about: Landing Perfect Job

Bryan Burbank is an expert in the field of Great Jobs and Careers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bryan_Burbank

Bryan Burbank - EzineArticles Expert Author

During troubled economic times, many companies are forced to lay off employees in order to maintain profitability. Whether you suddenly find yourself unemployed, or you are no longer satisfied with your current career, a change in your career path may be just what you need to make a fresh start.

When thinking about making a career change, it is important to consider the following points:

Career Skills: You should find out what skills you will need for your new career. You need to know if you will have to go back to school and the type of education that is required for the job. As well, you will need to determine if your current job skills will be useful in helping you obtain the job. You may have to acquire new skills and training. You should also make sure your strengths and weaknesses complement the new career. Personality testing and skills assessment will provide insight into your personal characteristics. Look for ways to develop new skills in your current job

Alternative Career Ideas: Discuss your personal values and skills with coworkers, friends, and family. They may be able to offer advice on what type of career would best suit you. You could also visit career centers, online resources, and libraries.

Job Satisfaction: Do not choose a job just because someone you know finds it rewarding. It is important to obtain a job that makes you happy, Do some research and talk to others in the field. You may even be able to spend the day job shadowing. Volunteering is another option. You will learn more about the job and also make business contacts. Because so much time is spent in the workplace, it is important to have an enjoyable and rewarding career.

Research Employers and Businesses: Learn all about the industry and employers in your interested field. You should find out about such job prospects as whether it is a growth industry and if you will have to relocate. Talk to employees to get their opinions about the job. Determine what career prospects will be like in a year or five years.

Self Employment: Many people are turning to self employment. Freelancing is becoming quite popular. Find out if you can be successful as your own boss and what you have to do to become self employed.

Salary: It is important that your new career gives you financial stability. Compare your current job salary with the average salary of the new career. Make sure you research such benefits as health insurance, dental insurance, pensions, etc. It is great to pursue your dream job, but you have to consider the financial implications. A reduction in pay may not be a problem for a single person, but if you have a family, a drop in salary will affect their lifestyle.

Consider Another Position: If you are unhappy at your current work level, ask your employer if there may be another position available. For instance, if you are a manager in a clothing chain, check to see if there any corporate positions available.

Ask for Assistance: A career counselor can advise you on what you need to do to change career paths. They will offer helpful advice regarding your career options and whether you are making a good decision.

Changing career paths can be a difficult life decision. Taking the time to research and explore all options will make the decision much easier. Identifying what type of job will make you happy and fulfilled is a vital step in charting a new path. Whatever the decision, going through the process will help you learn a lot more about yourself and your own personal needs.

Halifax college provides hands-on career training for business management and medical industries and the most reputable Account schools

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Nutt

In the past few years the interest in being able to work from home has increased dramatically. The reasons for this trend vary but it's obvious that having a work at home business has many advantages. Some people simply want to work at home to be closer to their families; others prefer the freedom they gain to become their own boss, etc. Whatever the reason, it looks as though work at home employment is becoming a fast growing market, especially in today’s Internet age. If you are planning on working from the comfort of your home, you might be interested to know about the three basic types of home-based careers available right now. Having a basic knowledge about them will give you a better idea on what best suits your needs.

Work at Home Employment Type # 1: Telecommuting (also called Teleworking)

Telecommuting is not a complete work at home employment; you don't own your own business. Basically, as a telecommuter you work for someone else. However, the big difference from a traditional job is that you do the majority of your assigned work from your own home. Of course you get some great benefits with this type of work at home employment career: you usually have the advantage of company benefits, such as health insurance.

Work at Home Employment Type # 2: Freelancing/Consulting

If you want more independence, freelancing might be a good option for you. Freelancing can be considered as something between a work at home employment and a work at home business. You could almost regard it as telecommuting employment. And in a way it is. However, based on the independence you are generally afforded, it is much closer to having your own business. For instance, as a freelancer you have total control over the people you want to work with. Among the most common developed skills you should have if you’re considering a work at home employment career as a freelancer are the ability to write, business advice, counseling, and others.

Work at Home Employment Type # 3: The Home-Based Business

A home-based business gives you full independence and control. There's nothing more rewarding than being your own boss. As a home-based business owner you are self-employed; you own the product, and the income is 100% yours. However, by starting a home-based business doesn’t always mean that the product you sell is your own. It could be that you’re selling a product with resell rights, selling products as an affiliate, and so on.

The above are the most common types of work at home employments. Although different, they all have something in common: you need to impose personality in order to have any success. If you want to work at home you have to make sure you're ready for that. If you think you have the right temperament and the discipline needed then you might be able to work from home. Explore each of the above-mentioned work at home employment types to find out more about which would be better for your personality.

Hector Morales is the owner of the Exclusive Work at Homes Tips Web Site. Check it out to learn about other work at home tips including tips for those looking for legitimate work at home jobs, how to avoid work at home scams and other work at home tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hector_Morales

As an international freelancer, you're bound to face endless obstacles while trying to get your work done, such obstacles include: language barrier, time zone differences, and payment difficulties. The language barrier, however; is one of the top reasons why international freelancers feel intimidated 24/7.

The Language Barrier

Most clients assume that your country of birth determines your language fluency or intelligence for that matter. You'll come across many clients that will make fun of you for not understanding a "cultural" reference or they'll question your fluency in English the moment you apply to the job. Many clients assume that just because English is not your first language, then you can't possibly complete the task at hand.

So how can you solve this?

* Do not be provoked by such remarks, focus on the task at hand instead.
* Provide professionally formatted and spelled checked proposals or samples.
* Politely explain to the client the cultural differences and how references vary.

What happens if this fails? You have to understand that some clients will not stop ridiculing your work for the shear fact you're from a third world country or a non-native English country. The thing to remember is that you started freelancing to avoid work bullies and annoying bosses. Don't let the client step all over you, since such abusive behavior will only put you down and leave you unable to finish other tasks at hand. Not to mention, your client's experience is likely to put your reputation at risk. This is the time when you should consider canceling the job and giving the client a refund.

Amino Zawawi is a full-time freelancer, internet entrepreneur, and playwright.

For more freelancing tips visit: Freelancer 2.0 - Make Money Online Without a Fulltime Job Today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amino_Zawawi

As a freelancer, it is only natural to work with hard-to-please clients every now and then. However, sometimes the client's behavior is an indication of what's to come in the future. So when should you consider your client's behavior a red flag? Here are 3 signs to tell you it's time to cancel the task at hand:

1. Client Criticism is not Constructive

One sign that your relationship with your client is abusive pertains to constructive criticism. While notes are necessary to get the job done, unconstructive remarks such as "Haha, you don't know that..." or "Of course you wouldn't know because you're not...." are a definite sign of a bully. Constructive criticism is all about pointing out bugs that can be actually fixed or improved, not about ridiculing such mistakes.

2. Client's Refusal to Reason

If you've tried to reason with the client about a point with no success, you should know that clients that are insensitive to other opinion are mostly likely to give you a hard time later on. A freelancer's relationship with a client should be that of understanding and reasoning, don't let anyone convince you otherwise.

3. Client's Tone & Attitude

If the client approaches you in a condescending way or constantly snaps at you, this is definitely a red flag for you. Angry clients culminate in a stressful period of your life: never satisfied with the outcome, impatient, and nagging. If a client is demanding the work although your deadline is still weeks away, you should know the client is pushy and impatient, and will probably keep on nagging till you get the work done.

It is only natural to spot these traits in most of your clients, however; you should be alarmed if any of the signs look severe or abnormal. Depending on your intuition in such cases is crucial, since it will be the best judge!

Amino Zawawi is a full-time freelancer, internet entrepreneur, and playwright.

For more freelancing tips visit: Freelancer 2.0 - Make Money Online Without a Fulltime Job Today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amino_Zawawi

If you like to choose your professional career in private investigational field, then you must know the qualities needed to become a smart private detective. Different types of qualities will be needed for different nature of investigation. You can call a person as private detective if he is working to unearth truth for some others. If you have the zeal for exploration and the needed courage to face any difficult situation, then you can choose this field. There are plenty of centers providing full range of training to desired people who wants to become a private detective and if you join such training, then you will get a clear picture about this profession.

Even if there is no higher educational qualification needed to be a private detective, it will be nice if you have basic educational qualification. But in this profession, only intelligence and not qualification will count. In the past only retired military and police people use to join in this field, but in this day and age in some countries even many youths are attracted in this career. When I interviewed one such youth, he told me that he wants to be a private detective because he is fascinated with the thrill associated with detections. That young man also told me that he got inspiration referring articles in this subject.

There are lots of private agencies providing detectives to needy people and business organizations. Few years back I met my friend Mr. George who is working in a life insurance company as the head of the branch. While talking, he told me that a gang of five has committed some forgery in a policy amounting millions of dollar and he urgently need an experienced and smart private detective to investigate that complicated case. He knows that my uncle is running a detective agency in the heart of the city and the agency is well know for its track records of detecting complicated and sensitive cases.

Immediately we both visited my uncle's detective agency and Mr. George narrated the story to my uncle in detail. Patiently hearing all details my uncle assured him to provide a superior private detective, a black belt in karate who had recently shot into fame by establishing the truth in the court of law in a convoluted murder case. Happy with my uncle's word Mr. George straight away gave the advance in cheque. Recently I met Mr. George incidentally from a restaurant and when I enquired about the status of the old case, he told me that the private detective from my uncle's agency successfully completed the task with in no time and the gang of five got imprisonment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Padmakumar_Theyyunni

I began to suspect I was in the wrong business about 13 years ago, when I was an entry-level reporter at a semi-daily newspaper. Sure, I'd been warned I wouldn't make money as a journalist - but I should have asked for specifics.

Vague comments about enough money are meaningless to a 20-year-old. Real examples, such as "You won't be able to pay your rent and make your car payment," or "Pick one: Food or running water" would've been more helpful, I think.

After reading a recent ZapThink report, it occurs to me that I'm still in the wrong business. If only someone had said to me, "Loraine, forget writing. Go learn about SOA," life would be good. Real good.

How good? According to ZapThink, senior SOA consultants can charge up to $500 per hour. A typical onshore SOA architecture team will cost around $200-300 per hour as an average per-person cost for the team as a whole, it notes. You'll get a slight discount for offshore consultants - the price drops to a "mere" $100-200.

But as this article explains, many bids for SOA consultants may not reflect the true costs. In fact, you're likely to get widely different quotes from SOA consultants and, oddly, the big firms are likely to bid incredibly lower than mid-size and boutique SOA consultancies.

You'll be tempted to think that there's some sort of efficiency of scale going on there, but ZapThink says that's not the case.

ZapThink contends large firms are pulling a bait-and-switch on clients by bringing in top-notch SOA consultants to sell the service, but when it comes time to deliver, these big companies bring in college graduates to do that actual work. And, as you might expect, they tend to lack the experience and training needed to deliver a full SOA.

Just as I should have asked for more specifics when I started journalism, companies should ask for more specifics before hiring a SOA consultant. It's not enough to ask, "How much?" You also need to ask:

• Who will do the work for that rate? Will it be you, Mr. SOA expert - or a team of junior architects?
• What is the experience level and credentials of the actual team who will work on my SOA?
• What are the deliverables I can expect and when can I expect them?

The ZapThink article explains the problem more fully and offers a few tips for how you can get around this problem. The first tip, of course, is to realize any bid that's less than the going rate is not a real bargain at all. In fact, you'll probably wind up short-changed, according to ZapThink.

This can be tricky advice to follow, since some government agencies must accept the low bid. Recognizing this, ZapThink suggests you move to a per-project bid price with identifiable deliverables, rather than an hourly rate.

The article is well worth reading, and goes into some depth about why this is happening and why both onshore and offshore SOA consultants can charge so much.

You might also want to check out these past pieces about hiring a SOA consultant:

Searching for, and landing that one special job is going to require you to write a well prepared resume. Yes, the thought of writing about yourself can be very intimidating, especially not knowing where to start or what to include. Here is a list of 10 tips that will help you in writing that perfect resume.

1. One of the most important things to remember is that you are marketing yourself. The resume is only going to enhance your best qualities. That being said, you need to focus on one specific objective, or bull's-eye. This is what is going to make you stand out from the crowd. With out having a plan, or objective your final product will not be clear, it will seem unfocused. So take some time before you start to write, and focus on a objective, or bull's-eye.

2. As mentioned above you are marketing yourself to a prospective employer, and the resume is the marketing tool that is going get you; the product in the hands of the employers. This is where you want to put your best-self at the for-front. You are going to market your self through your resume. This is where you list your benefits and features. Show what makes you unique, these benefits and features should resonate through your resume.

3. Remember this tool is used to get you an interview, it is not intended to get you the job. Avoid going into detail about every accomplishment you have achieved. You want to be clear and concise. Tease the employer, peak his or her interest with your resume in order to get the interview. The interview is where you will go into more detail about yourself.

4. The construction of your resume is very important. First of all you want to make sure that you make it only 1-2 pages long, and the reading of it flows smoothly. Use proper grammar, and please make sure that your punctuation is correct. Also make sure that you leave white space between paragraphs, and your font size should not go any lower /higher than 10.

5. Next you want to choose your words carefully, Remember it takes the employer anywhere from 30 seconds to 1 minute to review your resume. This is a short period of time, so you need to make sure your strong points are at the beginning, and they capture the attention of the employer. You can do this simply by accenting your strengths with bullet points. When using bullet points make sure you use short strong sentences.

6. Now you want to show that you know what you are talking about. Stay away from only one strong point. Show the depth of your knowledge, highlight the different strengths that you have and just touch on them. You will want to accent the positive, and leave off the negative if you feel they will prejudice your chances of an interview.

7. This next step is very important, as mentioned above you want to make sure that your resume flows smoothly. By this I mean that the reading has to be smooth, not choppy and going in different directions. Remember you are writing around your bull's eye so everything has to be relevant, and flow from one step to the next.

8. Once you have a finished product you want to review it and make any changes that are warranted. You want to make sure that you read it as if you are the person making the decision as to who will get interviews. If it does not make sense to you, then it will most likely not make sense to that person.

9. Another good idea would be to let other people read it. They will probably see things that should be changed, plus they will not be as easy on you than you would be on your self. this will make for a better, and higher quality finished product. Remember to make changes based on the input you get from the other people's input.

10. Now it's time to submit your resume to prospective employers. When submitting your resume remember that your odds increase with the number that you submit. Do not be afraid to submit them. You want to submit to jobs that are what you are looking for, some that are just below what you are looking for, and some that seem to be a bit out of reach, You never know where you will find that jewel of a job,

By following these few steps you can create a resume that will point out your strengths and get the attention of the prospective employers.

In a competitive world every employee seeks to increase his/her job success skills and thereby increase their promotional prospects. These seven success secrets will help you.

Be early or arrive 10 minutes before time!

Let your employer know you are valuable. Doing an excellent job is of no help if the boss who promotes you doesn't know it, or thinks otherwise! It may even hinder your promotion. You'll feel good to do a good job, but unless it's backed by a promotion you'll feel frustrated and let down. So let your employer know by volunteering for any problems in the office and let your boss know who did it. Collect the credit to your account!

Show initiative. Be the new idea bringer! And then offer to take charge and implement them. Show leadership qualities here. Go the extra mile, even the extra millimeter. It's all sometimes you'll need to stand out from the pack! And do this all with a smile, let it be a joy, not a burden. Come up with fresh concepts and ideas and convince your colleagues to support your ideas. Never shy from a good challenge and when your colleagues say it cant be done, show them its possible and do it. Believe and bet on yourself, but always be accountable. Value yourself. When your boss looks out for a new project leader, guess who he'll choose!

Keep personal problems at home and personal. So if your boy/girl friend has dumped you deal with it outside of office hours and talk. Remember business is business and personal is personal. Some the most effective business leaders have been those who have successfully separated the two.

Never say words like "IT'S not my job" to a co-worker or the customer. Be prepared to work and when given a task give it your all, whether big or small. Be flexible and try to assist wherever possible to the best of your ability. This attitude will not go un-noticed in the long run.

Show an attitude of follow-up for all jobs undertaken. Delegate well to show good leadership skills. Collaborate with all the company's methods, goals, new working policies and generally play the team man. Be a team player but an inspiring leader at the same time. Keep your inbox to a minimum and keep all pending jobs to an appropriate folder. No employer likes to see a huge "pending" tray.

Keep up with the latest by reading books in your field. Keeping abreast of new ways to work, operate will show your boss you're seeking to improve your 'on the job success skills'. Be like a sponge and always keep a open mind. Observe, listen, read and ask questions. Know all you can about your company, its history, and its mistakes. Know your brand how it's made, what goes into its production. Otherwise, study you job in all its aspects. Above all know your goals or aspirations. Knowing them will give you a strong reason to excel in whatever field you choose and rise up.

When you deserve a promotion go to your boss with an updated list of proof and reasons to support your appeal. Don't be afraid to show the progress you've made the projects you've put together and your accomplishments. Otherwise these may go unnoticed. In other words. SELL YOURSELF!

Looking for part-time jobs is becoming a national past time. With the rising cost of living, full-time wage earners are looking elsewhere to earn extra dough to pay the bills. Here's how to find the jobs that will fit into your schedule and your expertise.

Can't Pay the Bills?

Even with a two-income family, finances can be tough, especially with little children. Professionals with college degrees are no longer averse to looking for part-time jobs to pay the bills. There's the mortgage hanging over your head, credit card bills that are long overdue, and food to put on the table everyday.

A part-time job is the only way out of the pickle, especially if you've got no money to put up a little business. For an extra $500 a month, you can work 8 hours a week, depending on the type of job you have found. Sometimes those jobs on the side can give you more money if you work extra hours.

Job Search

Landing a part time job may take awhile. For online searches, try CareerBuilders.com or MonsterJobs.com. You can narrow down the search to location and type of part-time job. The available jobs are from various industries like hospitality, pharmaceutical and medical, construction, maintenance, insurance, research, retail, science, and accounting. A job search in the neighborhood can begin with a casual conversation with your local grocery store or pharmacy. Or, if you find a help wanted sign in a bar, restaurant, or bakery, check if you are fit for the job.

The newspaper is another good source for 'help wanted' ads. Don't give up hope scanning the classifieds daily. There is always bound to be something that will catch your interest.

The grapevine or the network is always a reliable and faster route to find part-time jobs. Talk to friends about your job search. There is always someone who knows someone who needs an extra pair of hands for a shop. Always make sure your business card holder is filled with extra business cards just in case.

Always apply in person if you find a help wanted sign. Dress appropriately for the interview and be ready with your resume and cover letter. It pays to have a little background information on the business establishment that is hiring. This will help you ace the job interview. However, not all jobs will require a resume, but the employers will always do a quick background check on all job applicants.

Extra Jobs and Family

You should discuss the implications of working more hours away from home with your partner. You can always talk things over your partner to balance the household chores and bank account. If the extra compensation can pay the bills and a babysitter, that would be ideal.

The children should be prepped for a change in daily routine. You will have to adjust to the changes too, and as a couple, you'll take on additional responsibilities to make the home atmosphere as normal as you can. For the sake of the children, couples should work in shifts. One can get weekend jobs, while the significant other can take on a weekday job.

Looking for part-time jobs should not be a daunting task. When extra money is needed, you have to be persistent when looking for that additional source of income. Nowadays, people have to work double time to live decently.

Networking for your job advancement in your career development path offers big benefits and outstanding career employment advancement opportunities that in most cases would never come your way otherwise.

Why network? Networking in the employment and career field offers the number one source of finding employment and job advancement. It is often stated that the vast majority – estimated as high as 80 – 90 % of jobs are filled inside organizations rather than outside. Generally in life people do not like risk and change. Better to deal with someone you know, can judge and trust. As well someone who recommends a future employee to an organization should have a vested interest in recommending a person who will be of good benefit to that organization. As well it should be noted that the person who does the recommendation has their own self interest to consider in case things do not work out well with the prospective hire.

In fact many employers will pay an employee who recommends a future hire a “finder’s fee” or other reward. Better to reward someone in your organization for growth than to reward an outsider such as a commercial “head hunter”.

It may be said that sometimes a firm will look outside of the norm to hire someone – especially management to shake the organization to be a “whipping boy”. This does occur. However these are not situations where you would place yourself for serious career advancement.

Networking is in actuality the process of developing relationships with people who can assist you with job search strategies and in finding strong job leads. Often people you seriously network with (including those you ask as valued references on your job resumes or applications) will become your best proponents. It should be noted that networking should be distinguished from simple hobnobbing and name dropping. Networking in its true sense is a sincere, two ways relationship not a shallow one way activity. The distinction can not be stressed enough. If you are unable to comprehend the difference between the two - then this activity of career networking is not currently the right path for you.

The benefits of networking are great. Networking will focus your job choice and career direction. You will be tapping into jobs that you would most likely not have access to otherwise. You should be in a position to gain information and perspective about your chosen industry and firms or organizations that you would not be privy to or be able to comprehend or appreciate the significance otherwise. Specialized information such as industry and geographical trends, job search structure and protocols and hiring processes in your chosen fields will avail itself to you in your employment search.

It is a wonderful trait in interviews to be confident with industry perspectives as well as privileged information about the going ons of firms that you are making job applications for. The biggest percentage of most job interviews is based on preparation before the interview, not during it. Networking will be your best tool for successful pre interview preparation and planning.

As well networking affords self promotion in a socially acceptable manner without bragging rights to those people in the hiring stream who ultimately matter the most to you in your employment search. In effect you are practicing your communication and interviewing skills as you successfully navigate the network streams.

Remember that for all the serious work you do in your job search in the end you never know who can be of the most help to you. Be sincere and appreciative in all that you do.

Since time immemorial, a career in medicine has been looked upon with prestige, and people consider it humanitarian and noble. A career in medicine calls for a lot of responsibility and the ability to update one’s knowledge on the evolving medical technology. With the passage of time and innovation in the field of science, the medical profession is becoming very challenging. There are a number of fields within the medical career, such as Healthcare Administration, Healthcare Management, Medical Insurance Billing, Medical Office Billing and several others.

Basic Requirements For Medical Billing

The job of medical billing involves a lot of hard work and vast knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, coding and proper completion of forms. In addition, you need to have basic computer knowledge and a typing speed of at least 35 words per minute. A good temperament is another important characteristic that the person needs to possess, since he is required to deal with a number of patients, their attendants, doctors, medical representatives and other office personnel.

Job Outlook And Employment Opportunities

Medical billing is one of the fastest growing careers in healthcare. The importance of medical billing personnel is on the rise, since several insurance companies and the government are continuously spending substantial time and money to nix fraud and abusive practices. Due to this demand, various companies and practices are constantly on the lookout for trained and experienced medical billers. Personnel could find positions with doctors, hospitals, nursing homes, insurance companies, legal offices, rehabilitation centers, legal offices and consulting firms or they could also work independently.

They could set up an electronic billing system through their personal computers. Independent medical billers can also work as insurance specialists and consultants. The job is lucrative and revolves around helping patients and medical professionals calculate their insurance bills.

Some of the other job opportunities that are included within medical billing are as follows:

• Billing Specialist
• Coding Specialist
• Medical Collector
• Patient Account Representative
• Claims Analyst
• Claims Processor
• Reimbursement Specialist Claims Reviewer
• Electronic Claims Processor
• Billing Coordinator
• Claims Assistant Professional

Work Culture

The work culture of medical billers is usually part of an office setup. More often than not, the personnel do not work in close proximity to where patients are diagnosed. They generally have billing offices and services in large corporate buildings, in small suburban offices and in the offices of doctors. They usually work during the day, from Monday to Friday, forty hours a week. However, there are times when, in insurance companies, they are required to work late at night. They are paid well for working overtime and their services are much appreciated by the medical establishment and patients alike.

Whatever the reason that you want to switch careers, the fact is that you are going through a change, and you are not the only one. Studies show that the average person changes his or her career several times before things settle down. There are certain steps that you can take to make switching careers just a bit less stressful.

1. It's all about likes and dislikes: Being happy with your career is all about your personal choices. It is easy to identify what you dislike but it is that much more difficult to identify what you like doing. While identifying your likes think of all the things you would like to if money was not an issue. Delve deeper and you will know what it is you really like. Most people's likes revolve around teaching, healing and creating. If you can't identify your likes, then you should get online and take an online personality test that will help you figure it out.

2. Research: After you have identified your likes and dislikes and what you like doing, what you are passionate about, the next step is to spend some time researching. It is a part of the process to feel intimidated and unsure of yourself, but there is no need to back out or change your plans because of this. Just do your homework and you will be fine.

3. Skills: There are some skills that can be used irrespective of your career choice. Skills such as communication, leadership, planning and motivation are just a few of them. These can be used in your career switching process.

4. Education: If you are changing your career, you need to make sure that your education and training are adequate. You could enroll in a night class or online courses and acquire the education and training that you will need in your new career.

5. Network: The world now functions on the basis of networking. Make sure you have a good network of people you can use during your career change. With the right amount of networking you can get job leads, advice and useful information.

6. Experience: Since you will be starting a new career altogether, you may not going to be credited with lots of experience in the new company. If this is the case, consider taking a part-time job or doing some volunteer work that is relevant to your field to gain experience.

7. Mentors: Getting a mentor is the best thing you can do for yourself. Your mentor will help you get though those difficult times. You and your mentor together can work towards building your network that will help your career changing process.

8. Basics: If you haven't been job-hunting for a long time, then you need to get all your basics in place. Make sure that you have your resume updated. Know about interview skills. Research the companies. These are all things that will ensure smooth sailing during your job search.

9. Flexibility: Flexibility is of utmost importance while switching careers. There needs to be flexibility about everything...from employment status to salary and benefits.

Switching careers mid-life may be stressful - but by following the tips above, you can make sure that it doesn't become overwhelming.