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As a resource to all current and prospective students, Allied Schools, Inc. has developed this blog to bring relevant information into your lives. Use this blog as your "career guide," turning to Allied Schools Career News for industry updates, career trends, and job search advice. We thank you for visiting!
You've completed a successful job interview. What's the next step? You send a "thank you" letter thanking the interviewer for his or her time. This simple act can give you an edge over other interviewees. It's a common courtesy that allows you the opportunity to reiterate your interest in the job and keep your name in front of an interviewer.
Some tips for creating an effective "thank you" letter:
* Make sure to send your note within 24 hours of your interview.
* You can either handwrite or type your thank you letter. Tailor it to fit the company's culture. Decide if it's more appropriate to send a formal typed letter or a personal handwritten note.
* If you choose to e-mail your letter, you should send a hardcopy too. E-mail is a fast way to get your letter in front of the right people, but a mailed letter is the best choice.
* Your writing reflects you - make sure it is error free. Check the letter for grammar, spelling and punctuation.
* Make the note personal. Don't just copy your note from an old letter you have on file. Reference specific things you talked about in the interview.
* If you interview with a few people, send a note to each one. Although you can use the same letter for each, try to tailor a sentence or two to that specific person
* If you expect a decision soon, find a way to get your note in the interviewer's hands fast - consider using e-mail, fax, or hand-delivery.
A "thank you" letter can send an important message about you. It shows that you are truly interested in the job and want to project a positive image. It is the perfect opportunity to remind your potential employer of your qualifications and how you would fit in with the company. It also gives you the chance to correct any mistakes you might have made or add anything you might have missed.Labels: Career Guide, evaluate resume, Job Success, thank you letter
It may come as a surprise, but most small-business owners say that attitude is more important than a solid set of job skills when it comes to looking for new employees. They're not saying that they don't consider job skills important; however, first and foremost, they want their employees to have positive attitudes.
You can probably relate. Nobody wants to be around someone that is negative or complaining all of the time. This ideal incorporates into the workplace. A positive attitude fosters a positive work environment. An upbeat employee is more likely to be productive, motivated and well liked.
How can you project a positive attitude?
Put on a happy face - You can't help but feel good when you smile. It is also contagious. When you smile, your co-workers will smile and so on. There will be positive energy in the office.
Focus on the task at hand - Don't think about what went wrong yesterday. We all make mistakes. If you give your work 100% of your attention, you will have the concentration to do a good job.
Stop the complaining - We all experience things that we do not agree with or do not like. However, instead of lingering on the negative, choose to forget about it and move on. A positive front will go further to advance your career.
Create an inviting work space - You can create a positive work environment by keeping things organized. Clutter often leads to frustration and missed deadlines. Also, add a favorite photo or keepsake.
Keep a positive outlook - Look at each day as a new challenge. By focusing on the positive, you will be more likely to get excited about work. Think of all the possibilities the day has to offer.
A positive attitude is important, but it isn't everything. There are many qualities that add up to a successful employee. Remember to practice good work habits, follow directions, and use competent communication skills. It is also essential to dress suitably, use appropriate behavior, and demonstrate good job skills and knowledge of work operations.
Remember that a good attitude can get you ahead, while a bad one might stifle your chances for success.Labels: Career Builder, Career Guide, Job Success
Your cover letter can convey a lot about you. Think of it as a first impression. It lets an employer know what your skills are and why you'd be a good fit for a company. It offers a sampling of your most relevant experience and gets the employer interested in learning more about you.
Your goal: to create a well-written letter. This will get an employer's attention and let them know that you are serious about your job search. Make sure to highlight your skills or accomplishments that indicate you are the perfect candidate for the job.
Follow these tips to create an effective cover letter:
1. Keep it concise and to the point - Your cover letter should be no longer than one page. Choose to include only relevant information. It should introduce yourself and explain why you're interested in the position.
2. Personalize the letter - Make sure you know who to address, such as Mr. Green or Mrs. Smith. Try to avoid using "To Whom it May Concern." And always double check that you have the correct spelling.
3. Sell yourself - List your key skills and accomplishments. Explain how you think you'd be a good fit for a company. Show how past experience will help you succeed in this new company.
4. Include a "call to action" at the end - Make your intentions known to the reader. Ask him to contact you or say that you will call him in a few days to follow up. Don't leave the letter open-ended. Make sure it ends with an action or request for an action.
5. Review the letter - Take the time to look over your letter. Even one mistake can cost you a job opportunity. Have a friend or family member review your letter too. Sometimes two eyes can be better than one.
Think of a cover letter as a preview of your resume. It's representing you, so make sure it says the right thing. Get your foot in the door with a winning cover letter.Labels: Career Guide, cover letter, employer attention, Resume, well-written letter
If you want to advance in your current company or get a new job all together, you can give yourself an advantage by knowing your industry. What are the latest trends? What is the current news in your field? By being informed, you will have the ability to knowledgeably speak about your industry and know what to expect from your career. A survey conducted on behalf of The New York Times Job Market found that the majority of employers agree that keeping up-to-date in your field is important for conducting a successful job search. Give yourself the knowledge to build a long-term and rewarding career. Industry trade magazines – These are perfect sources of information! You can learn a lot about your industry by subscribing to trade magazines. Stay on top of current news and trends, and gain access to different employment opportunities. Find out what topics are being covered and what is relevant in your industry today. Networking – The ideal way to find out about an industry is to talk to people involved in that industry. Find out about specific jobs and what issues are currently affecting those jobs. For example, if you want to enter the real estate market, ask a real estate agent or broker how current interest rates are affecting sales. It is an invaluable way to get the information you need. Informational interviews – You can find out the “ins and outs” of an industry by talking to industry experts. Set up an informational interview with someone actually working in an industry. It is the perfect opportunity to speak one-on-one with an individual and ask pointed questions about what it is like being employed in that industry. Online resources – There are unlimited resources at your fingertips! Use the Internet to research a specific industry. Do you want to know about job growth? Do you want to determine salaries in specific geographic locations? You can find all of that and more through the use of your computer. You can also subscribe to online newsletters and e-mail updates. Find out what topics are relevant right now in your industry. You can give yourself a professional edge by being well informed. By becoming an expert in your industry, you will exude confidence and show that you are dedicated and care about your chosen profession. This might give you the advantage you need to get that promotion or wonderful job offer. Labels: Career Guide, industry, Job Assistance, Job Market
It is important to update your resume on a regular basis. By keeping it current, you will be ready to send your resume to a prospective employer on a moment's notice. You will also have the assurance that your resume reflects your current accomplishments. Even if you are not planning to look for a new job, you should take the effort to keep your resume up to date. Think of your resume as a work in progress. As your job evolves, your resume should also change to reflect new experience. Follow these steps to keep your resume fresh and up to date: - Take notes – You should always keep a detailed list of specific duties that you perform and projects that you complete at your job. This will ensure that you know exactly what to include on your resume. Don't overlook critical achievements and contributions! It might be difficult to remember what you did a few months ago. A list will help guide you when you update your resume.
- Evaluate your resume – Take a long, hard look at your resume. Is there something that is not relevant? Do you need to provide additional details about a project? Has your objective changed? A resume that you wrote right out of college might not fit your needs when you are a professional with ten years of experience.
- Update or rewrite – After you've evaluated your resume, decide whether it requires a simple update or complete rewrite. Your resume might be too long or have outdated information. Decide the direction your resume should take. If you are simply updating your resume, make the necessary changes. If you need to rewrite it, devise a plan and include only the most relevant information. Create a resume that will generate results.
You never know when you will need an up-to-date resume. There might be a layoff, you might decide that you want a change, or an amazing job opportunity might come your way. You should always have your resume ready. You will have the confidence that your resume highlights all of your important accomplishments and accurately represents your work history. Remember that resumes should be one-of-a-kind. There are no cookie cutter formats. Make it your own and create a winning resume! Labels: Career Guide, evaluate resume, new job, recuriter, Resume, resume assistance
Make yourself stand out from the crowd. Additional education can give you a competitive edge when it comes to getting your dream job. Extra classes and career training can sharpen your skills and make you the first choice when it comes to getting hired. Maybe you took some classes a few years ago or enrolled in a career training course after high school. Chances are you can use some new skills to give your resume a boost. If you didn't get the promotion you were expecting or weren't offered the job that seemed to be a perfect fit, you might be ready for additional job training. - Add relevant skills to your current job – You might be able to enhance your current position by adding skills that enable you to perform more tasks. By taking on additional duties, you can grow your job potential and solidify your position within your company.
- Prepare yourself for a promotion – You can give yourself skills that will help you advance to another position in your current company. For example, if you want to become a manager, you can show your initiative by enrolling in a management course that will give you the skills you need to be an effective leader.
- Try an entirely new career – If you have lost enthusiasm for your job, you can try adding some career skills that will enable you to go into a new field. By enrolling in a course or career training program, you can get the tools you need to succeed in something new.
A class or two might be all you need to make yourself more relevant in today's job market. Round out your education with an accounting class or take a computer class to sharpen your skills. Additional job skills can also prepare you to enter an entirely new profession. Whatever you decide, a little effort can pay off big when it comes to your career.Labels: Career Guide, current job, dream job, promotion
Career Guidance: Making a Job Change
It used to be a good idea to stay with a company for an extended period of time. Employees were rewarded for their loyalty and spent their lives working for the same business. Today, it is different story. Showing up everyday and working hard will not necessarily keep your job secure. There is a different corporate culture.
The good news is that you're in charge. With a positive economy, it is a great time to move your career forward. You can choose to join a company that meets your professional needs. If you want to make more money or secure an exciting job, you have the power to make the change.
So, how do you get started?
* Research the career - Become an expert in the desired field. Determine the career outlook and locate companies in your area. Find out about a typical day on the job.
* Get involved - Network, network, network! Join professional groups and associations that will enable you to make contacts and get an inside look at an industry. You might also get your foot in the door.
* Become an expert - Take the necessary classes or get the experience you need. If you want to enter a new field, you might need to expand your knowledge base. You need to become a specialist in that area.
* Develop a strategy - Make a detailed plan on how to change jobs. Sending out dozens of resumes is not usually effective in today's job market. Figure out how to get yourself noticed.
There hasn't been a better time to change jobs. If you didn't get the raise you were hoping for or have been skipped over for a promotion, you might want to enter the job market. If you do your homework, you will most likely get the job you've always wanted.Labels: Career Guide, Job Assistance, job change
Career Guidance: Is a career change in your future?
Is a career change in your future?
Answer the following questions either "Yes" or "No":
Have you felt that your true skills and talents were not put to good use in your previous jobs?
Do you feel that the work you're currently doing is unfulfilling?
Do you feel restless, like there is "something else" that you should be doing, but are not sure what?
Do you feel that you're capable of doing more with your life?
Do you dread Monday mornings?
If you answered "Yes" to two or more of these questions, then maybe it's time to consider a career change.
Making a career change is a serious decision. It's not just about changing your job; it's about changing your entire future. Of course, any kind of change can be scary, but as the old saying goes, "Do what you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life." Ideally, it makes sense to find work that is best suited toward your talents – you'll be happier, and in turn, you'll be more productive!
What's Next?
So by now you might be thinking about a career change, but how do you sort it all out? First do a little self assessment. What are your talents? Take a second to daydream. If you could do absolutely anything for a living, what would it be? Now think about reality. What are the outside factors that might influence your decision? Family? Money? While it's great to dream, it's just as important to be practical. You could need more training or education, you may have to relocate to a different city, or you'll need to save money for a certain length of time – all to make your career change happen!
It's also a good idea to spend time researching the field you'd like to enter. The Internet is a great place to start. Also, find someone who has your "dream job" and ask them why they chose that particular field, what they love most about their job, and what they don't. Get information about the pay, the typical environment, the stress level and so on.
Next, make a list of the specific actions you'll need to take to achieve your goal. How long would it take to get the education you need? Who can you contact for informal interviews? Write it down. Create a timeline for turning your goal into a reality.
Remember, if changing careers seems impossible given your previous experience (or lack thereof), keep in mind that even if you have no direct experience in the field you want to enter, you probably have a long list of transferable skills. The ability to effectively communicate is just one example of a valuable skill that all employers are looking for. Being detail-oriented, organized and creative are other important transferable skills.
The transition into a new career doesn't happen overnight. However, with a lot of hard work and self-evaluation, you can find a satisfying new career. Good luck!Labels: Career Counseling, Career Guide
When you mail, fax or e-mail your resume, it might be number 58 out of 108 resumes that the Human Resources Director sees that week. So how can you make your resume stand out from the rest?
We don't advocate anything wacky like sending your resume along with an extra-large pepperoni pizza. (Believe it or not, desperate candidates have done this!) However, we are saying that if you make your resume "dynamic" enough, it can land you the interview!
NOTE: All of the following methods will work regardless of whether you create a chronological resume (organized by job titles, starting from the most recent) or a functional resume (with less emphasis on work history, greater emphasis on skills and accomplishments).
SECRET #1: Add Plenty of Action Verbs - Action verbs are the strongest way to describe your previous job responsibilities and accomplishments. Dynamic words like achieved, streamlined, created, managed, or implemented can make your resume come alive. Just remember to use present tense verb phrases for the job you currently hold and past tense for former jobs.
SECRET # 2: Quantify Your Experiences - This one takes a little bit of effort, but it's worth it! Instead of listing just your duties or responsibilities, list your actual accomplishments. This includes adding details, facts, data or numbers. Employers are interested in discovering how you saved money, increased sales, or solved a problem.Examples:Supervised four employees. Created a 120 page report outlining the company's marketing and sales plan. Implemented a new cost-cutting plan that saved the company $20K annually.
SECRET #3: List Your Transferable Skills - You have more skills than you realize! Transferable skills are really "life skills" acquired either on the job or through any other activity, like parenting, volunteer projects, classes and so on. Employers in every industry are searching for candidates who possess excellent organizational, communication and problem-solving skills.
Labels: Career Guide, interview, Resume
Career Guidance: Choosing the Right References
You walk out of a successful job interview and think that the job is yours. Not so fast…the interview process is not over. Most likely an interested employer is going to ask for a list of references. Before you print out the standard list that's been circulated from company to company for the past few years, you should give your references some thought.
As mortgage and car companies will check your credit history before co-signing a loan, employers will check your references before offering you a job. It is important to make sure that your list includes current, relevant and positive information regarding your job history.
The following steps explain what you should do to maximize your reference list.
Choose effective references - Select individuals that have known you for at least one year. Your list should include four or five people, such as former or current supervisors, colleagues or subordinates, former customers or clients, former professors, or contacts from work-related associations.
Make sure your records are accurate - Verify all contact information, including phone numbers, addresses and titles, to make sure it's up to date. It is important to make it simple for an employer to reach individuals on your list.
Maintain active and positive relationships with your contacts - Keep in touch with your references and make sure they are abreast of your current progress. This can be accomplished through periodic e-mails and phone calls.
Advise references of an important opportunity - Be selective when contacting your references about potential job opportunities. You don't want to call them every time you send out a resume.
Use a reference-checking service - Make sure you know what a reference is going to say about you. This service will contact the individuals on your list and ask questions similar to that of a potential employer.
Ensure that you include references that complement your resume. The goal should be to pick individuals that confirm the details on your résumé and offer positive information about your skills and experience.
A good list of references may be the difference between you and another qualified candidate. Make yours count!Labels: Career Counseling, Career Guide
I am sure you are familiar with the old idiom that the lowest member of the organization is the most important representative of the organization as a whole. Who is the first person that conveys the image or attitude of a company? Often times it is the telephone operator or the assistant at the reception desk. Starting in the mailroom and working your way up the corporate ladder may seem like a tedious and unwelcome task, but it is a necessary one. Although no one expects you to take a job that you are overqualified for, it is important to know how every job within your organization is performed. A valuable and knowledgeable employee is the key to an organization's competitive advantage.
When looking for a job, be sure to convey your versatility to your future employer. Don't be afraid to share you knowledge base no matter how insignificant it may seem at the time. If you are a highly technical medical biller, showing your knowledge of medical terminology and small business management principles will make you more valuable to the company interviewing you. A manager needs to know that the people they hire have the ability to multitask and pick up the slack if another member of the team is unavailable.
When you become part of a company take the time to introduce yourself to the different departments within the organization. For instance, just because you are a marketing professional does not mean that you cannot and should not communicate with the accounting or human resources department. You never know when you will need the advice or assistance of another department. It is better to build your relationships in the beginning of your career instead of waiting until an urgent need arises and you do not have the proper contacts or working relationships put into place.
Don't be afraid to branch out. It is much harder for a company to "let someone go" if they are heavily integrated within the company. A person who makes themselves valuable on many different levels will become an important asset to the company. Improve your employability through continuing education and other specialized on-the-job training. If there is a new tool or technique that you can learn, do it! Challenging yourself today will benefit your entire career. Be the invaluable employee your company can depend on for mailroom sorting and executive-level strategy planning.Labels: Career Guide, Continuing Education, medical biller, MultiTasking, small business management
Career Guidance: The Four P's of Job Success Professionalism - Personality - Punctuality - People
People in the marketing field know the four P's of marketing: product, price, promotion and place. Today I share with you the four P's of job success. I'm sure it's not a surprise to anyone that a person's job success depends on many different factors. Some of these factors we cannot control, but many of them we can. If we have the ability to help ourselves and take charge in our career, why not do so?
Professionalism: Be proud of who you are and present that image to your employer.
During the initial interview, your interviewer will be looking for certain characteristics. He or she will note how you talk, how you hold yourself. Do you have a firm handshake or do you constantly avoid eye contact? These may be of little significance to you, but to a future employer these signs show who you are and what your work ethic is. Professionalism spans beyond the quality of work you produce. It plays an integral part in your interactions with other employees and customers. Remember, who would you want representing you?
Personality: Having a good personality doesn't mean we have to be the class clown or prom queen (or king).
Personality is your key to winning people over. Having a genuine love of people will help you build relationships with your customers and coworkers. Be kind, courteous, friendly, and patient with those around you. If you are a new hire at a company, don't walk into your workplace with an air of arrogance. Humble yourself in front of others and be willing to learn from those who have years of experience. Likewise, if you have been an employee of a company for many years, be willing to adjust to new people and new trends. No one likes to work with the office grump!
Punctuality:This is very simple.
No matter what your schedule is like, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, BE ON TIME. There is no excuse to be late. It looks bad and it shows a lack of respect for all parties involved.
People:Learn to like people even if you don't.
Nothing in this world can be achieved without the help of others. You will learn to depend on others in your personal and professional life, and every one of the P's mentioned in this article will assist you in working well with others. Starting a new job requires integrating your own personality with the personality of your coworkers. If you are still in the interviewing process, show your future employer that you appreciate the chance to work one-on-one with others. People skills sell! Labels: Career Builder, Career Guide, Job Success
Career Guidance: Don't Be a Character – HAVE Character
Have you ever heard the old adage: "Your word is all you have?" It's true. What good is anything we say or do if we don't have the trust and respect of others? Building character is like setting the foundation of a house; brick by brick we firmly plan ourselves in society, gaining the trust, respect, and responsibility we deserve. No matter what career we choose to embark upon, whether it's medical, real estate, or business, we need to present ourselves as stewards of society.
Recent ethical scandals have placed a black cloud over the business community. Shareholders and employees alike look to their management with skeptical eyes. We have been forced to think that all management is out for themselves. This is not true. For every bad corporate manager, there are a thousand great ones.
Present yourself to your future employer in the light that you would like to be seen in.
Interviewers are looking for ethical and responsible employees who take the welfare of their company and coworkers seriously. When in an interview don't act like a character and present yourself in a foolish manner; have character and prove to your interviewer that you are a highly ethical employee who follows the rules, takes the welfare of the company seriously, and is dedicated to being a good example for the team.
When you first introduce yourself to a manager be sure to look them straight in the eye and say hello. Thank them for the opportunity to interview with their company, and show them that you are a serious contender for the job. Take your interviewer seriously and they will take you seriously. When asked to explain who you are and what you do, tell them you are a highly ethical professional with experience and dedication in your field. Prove to them that you consistently present your team and managers with the highest level of integrity and believe that your professional standards are as high as your personal ones.
Character counts; build your career on a foundation of dignity and trust and it will last a lifetime.Labels: Career Builder, Career Guide, character
Feng Shui is the Chinese art of positioning objects in homes and offices to create positive energy flow.
Recently, Feng Shui has gained popularity among many homeowners nationwide and as a result, the practices of Feng Shui have found their way into the workplace. More and more building managers and office workers are considering Feng Shui practices and beliefs when arranging work areas and office space.
Below is a list of a few simple Feng Shui practices that anyone can utilize to create positive energy flow in their work space. Use them in your office and see if you notice a change.
Reduce Clutter Clutter creates chaos. Chaos in the workplace is never a positive state of being. To reduce stress and anxiety in the workplace, free your space of clutter. This involves clearing unnecessary items off your desk and keeping your area clean of dirt and dust. This will help create a positive energy flow and reduce the chaos and anxiety at work.
Never Let Files Pile Up Having piles of files and folders on your desk blocks the energy flow of your work space. File away as many folders as you can. If you must have piles of paperwork and folders on your desk, place them to sides of your work area. It’s important to keep the space immediately in front of you clear. By doing so, you will improve the energy flow in your work space.
Leave the Cactus at Home As decorative as they may be, having a cactus on or around your desk actually directs negative energy to your work area. The needles of a cactus act as tiny arrows that allow negative energy to flow and build up in your environment. To reduce negative energy, do not place a cactus in or around your work space.
Bring a Black Briefcase According to the beliefs of Feng Shui, black symbolizes money and income. Using a black briefcase for work will harness financial gain and promote financial prosperity. Also, choose a black briefcase with metal clasps. In the beliefs of Feng Shui, the combination of black and metal is harmonious and will bring positive energy your way.
Sit with Your Back to the Wall Having a wall behind you creates a feeling of support, and supportive energy is very important in the office. Sitting with your back to a wall will help you focus on your work and avoid office politics.
Creating a positive work environment is beneficial to the success of your career. Practicing Feng Shui in the office creates a harmonious work space and helps you harness positive energy. Even if you are a bit skeptical about Feng Shui, try the tips above and see if your office life is affected. You never know how Feng Shui will change your life.Labels: Career Guide, feng shui, Job Success
Career Guidance:
Networking is the key to success in a marketplace filled with new technology and ever-changing skills. Every job seeker needs to have a Rolodex of contacts they can turn to for ideas, references, and possible job leads. Studies have always shown that "knowing someone" is the key to getting that dream job. For many people networking is one of the most difficult tasks involved with job hunting. We like to stay in our comfort zone going out only for the occasional cup of coffee or lunch meeting. Sound familiar?
The staff at Allied Schools knows that our career training will give you the tools that you need to succeed! However, knowing the ABC's of networking will give you the upper hand:
A - APPRECIATION
Whenever you come into contact with a person who is willing to assist you, always show your deepest appreciation. People tend to help others only when they feel their efforts are being appreciated. In today's fast-paced impersonal world, a simple thank you note or gesture of gratitude goes a long way. No matter how technologically oriented our world gets, people still need people. Honing your people skills will give you the corporate edge. Appreciate others and they will in turn appreciate you!
B - BOLD
Don't be afraid to be bold. Get out there and shake a few hands. The only way people are going to know who you are is if you initiate contact with them. It can be intimidating; we've all gone through this. Getting out of your shell and being bold in your interactions with others will help you build a diverse and strong network of contacts. No matter how insignificant your relationship with a person may seem, you never know when the most basic of relationships will yield the richest of results. As the old adage goes, the squeaky wheel gets the attention.
C - CHARACTER
When you get right down to it, the only true asset any of us has is our word. Without our word we are nothing, and without character we cannot become a model for others. In the networking world, people recognize those that have character.
Now, that doesn't mean that you tell jokes or have the most "colorful" personality. Character means that you do what you say, and you mean what you say. Networking with people you cannot trust or depend on is a pointless endeavor. Your job as a job seeker is to make people know that you are a person of character. You are a person they can depend on, and you will stand true to your ideals!
Now that you have the ABC's of networking, start on your networking activities with confidence and a clear objective. Allied is here for you every step of the way giving you the tools and techniques that you need to succeed in the day and years ahead.
Labels: Career Builder, Career Counseling, Career Guide, networking
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