http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/resume-for-fresh-graduate-how-to-craft-an-impressive-one.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/resume-for-fresh-graduate-how-to-craft-an-impressive-one.html Tue, 20 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
Granted, recent graduates do not have much work experience, but they have a lot of education. And that education is fresh and relevant to their field. Recent graduates often know more about state of the art technology and new ideas than veterans in the field. Use what you've learned to your advantage. Be sure to highlight the skills that you have learned in school.

Hobbies and interests can also be included on your resume. Be careful, though, to only use those hobbies and skill sets that are relevant to the position for which you are applying. Avoid creating an entire "hobbies" section. Instead, include the skills that you have gained from your hobbies and highlight those skills throughout your resume for fresh graduate.

Always include volunteer work. Volunteer work proves to your employer that you can work with others and that you can make a commitment to a cause and an organization. Many people try to do pro bono work while they are in school in exchange for references and job experience that they can use to get a head start in their career.

Want to demonstrate how well you work with others? Include group activities and particularly tough class assignments on your resume. For example: If you had to create a product or perform a case study as part of your grade, you can include this if it is relevant to the job duties you will be required to perform if hired.

Even if your resume is noticeably lacking, you can make up for it in your cover letter. Your resume letter is your one chance to prove why you are the right person for the job. Show your potential employer why you can perform the job better than others regardless of how much experience you have. Use persuasive language, but avoid sounding pushy and arrogant.

Most colleges and some vocational schools offer employment services, meaning that they will help you prepare for a job interview. If your school offers this service, take advantage of it. Do not be afraid to ask for help writing a resume for fresh graduate.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/what-to-bring-to-a-job-interview-interview-basics.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/what-to-bring-to-a-job-interview-interview-basics.html Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
You should never attend an interview empty handed. At the very least, you should bring a copy of your resume. If you are being interviewed by a team, bring a resume for everybody that will be attending the interview. References are also required. Do not wait for the interviewer to ask for these. Offer them. Avoid carrying a handful of loose leaf papers. Carry your documents in a professional file and briefcase.

If you hold a professional license, you should bring evidence of your license to your interview. Bring anything that proves that you are legally able to perform the job that you are applying for. Positions that may require a professional license includes nursing positions, cosmetology positions and teaching positions.

When deciding what to bring to a job interview, many people decide to put together a portfolio that highlights their qualifications. It is a proven fact that visual aids are effective, so why not use these to your advantage during a job interview? Before you throw together a portfolio, gather examples of your best work only. Remember; a portfolio is an aid and should not take up the bulk of the interview. If your portfolio contains digital information, bring a laptop or some other medium with you. Do not expect your interviewer to supply the equipment. Avoid carrying bulky objects as well. Do not overwhelm the interview room with all of your gear. Keep it simple and professional.

Never forget essentials when deciding what to bring to a job interview. Be prepared for anything. Extra copies of your resume, breath fresheners, an extra pair of panty hose, deodorant, safety pins and a change of clothes are all good ideas. Be prepared for anything. This will help you stay calm and in control no matter what happens the day of your interview. Being prepared will help you concentrate on what really matters, like all of those questions you will need to answer.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/resume-mistake-it-may-be-costing-you-employment.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/resume-mistake-it-may-be-costing-you-employment.html Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
One thing that stands out is gaps in employment history. If you do not show why there is a gap between employment entries, it looks like you’re trying to hide something. Often, all that is needed is a simple explanation. If you were attending school or having a baby, state so. This doesn't always have to be stated on the resume. You can include this information in your cover letter.

Another thing that turns employers off is typos and grammatical errors. Always spell check your resume. Have someone else look over it. You may not see a resume mistake, but someone else may be able to spot it quickly.

Avoid including too much information about what you do with your free time. Clubs and organizations are fine to include as long as they relate to the type of job you are applying for. If the information does not relate to the position, leave it out. An employer does not care what you do in your personal life.

Photos and personal profiles should not be used unless you're an actor or model. Most managers do not want to know what potential candidates look like. They only want to know the facts. Discrimination complaints are rampant, and employers do not want to be accused of choosing an applicant based on their looks, gender or race.

Complicated and elaborate fonts do not make your resume stand out positively. Artsy resumes often get thrown in the trash. They are a nuisance to read and they are distracting. They also give the impression that you are not professional. Always stick to standard text and resume paper.

Another resume mistake that job candidates make is to not update their resume before they forward it. School activities may be important when you graduate from high school, but they look ridiculous on your resume when you are 35. Technology and skill sets change as well. Do not include skills that are not needed in today's workplace. For example: Word processors have been replaced by computers and software.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/follow-up-letter-after-interview-write-one-to-seal-the-deal.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/follow-up-letter-after-interview-write-one-to-seal-the-deal.html Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
There will be numerous interviews held for the position that you want. How can you stand out? Out of all of those interviews, how many do you think will be followed up with a letter? Not many. You can take advantage of other people's inaction by taking the initiative. Always follow up with a letter.

Follow up Letter after Interview: How It's Done

You write thank you notes after you receive gifts or a kindness of some kind. So why not send a thank you note after an employer considers you for a job? If you’re not sending follow up correspondence, you should start doing so without delay. Statistics show that following up improves the odds that you will be hired.

Now, before you become overwhelmed, you should know that a follow up note does not have to be elaborate. A simple thank you is all that is needed.

What Your Letter Should Include

Always begin with an appreciative sentence. Thank the manager who interviewed you for the opportunity. Also include a few of your achievements that you want the employer to remember about you. Tell the employer again why you are the person they want to hire.

The follow up note is your opportunity to address anything that you felt was left unfinished during the interview. Talk about your skills and qualifications. Bring up comments that the employer said about you during the interview. This will help the employer remember who you are and keep you at the forefront.

Reiterate anything that is important. Tell the employer when you can start work. Leave them with the impression that you are very interested in the job and would be a great addition to their team. Steer clear of any confusing or contradictory points of discussion. If you have concerns, these are best discussed on the phone.

A follow up letter after interview should be mailed within 24 hours of the interview. Do not give them a chance to forget you. Competition is fierce. You need to stand out from the rest. A follow up note could give you the edge that you need.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/how-to-negotiate-pay-what-are-you-worth.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/how-to-negotiate-pay-what-are-you-worth.html Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
You should never fail to prepare for salary negotiation. The more money you make, the better life you can afford. Not only will a tidy salary help you live well today, it will provide for your future as well.

Approach the Subject Gracefully

It's natural to feel uncomfortable when talking about money and benefits. Keep in mind, though, that your employer expects you to discuss these matters during the interview. But there is a right and wrong way to broach the subject. This is why you should know how to negotiate pay before you attend the interview.

When you are hired, a company pays you money so that they can use your time, skills and resources. Before you can know what type of salary to ask for, you should know what your skills are worth. Take some time to research what the typical pay for your position is. If a company tries to offer you a substandard salary, stay calm. Politely explain why you are worth the salary you are asking for.

Never ask for a salary that you desire without knowing what the job typically pays. Use facts and tell the employer why you should make a certain amount of money. Include the exact amount that you want to earn in your request.

If an employer is reluctant to give you what you're asking for, point out your skills and how you performed in previous positions. If you can show an employer why you are worth the money, they will be more likely to grant your salary request. Never take a denial personally. Instead, use facts and research to drive your negotiation home.

Now that you know how to negotiate pay, it is time to move onto other concerns. Ask about the benefits and compensation packages that come along with your position. Be friendly and personable. You need to sell yourself. Never resort to nasty or threatening tactics to get your way. You will not get a job if you have a poor attitude.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/questions-to-ask-at-a-job-interview-how-to-get-the-most-out-of-an-interview.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/questions-to-ask-at-a-job-interview-how-to-get-the-most-out-of-an-interview.html Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
Before you compile your list, study up on the company you are interviewing with. Find out how much compensation you should expect and how the company typically treats its employees. Think about the skills and qualifications you have to offer the company. How will you be able to best serve the company? The interview meeting provides the opportunity to learn the answers you seek, but you need to have an idea of what you want to know before the interview so that you can get the most out of it.

No doubt, the most important thing on your mind will be money. How much compensation should you expect? What types of benefits are offered? Don't worry about appearing greedy. It's your wallet. You might NEED to earn a certain salary level to survive. If a company cannot afford to pay you what you need, you can save a lot of time if you know this before you go through the rest of the application process.

Ask what will be expected of you and what type of environment you will be required to work in. Do you think you can work in such an environment? What can you contribute to such an environment? You should also take this time to ask about performance reviews, bonuses and raises. How will your work be appraised and by who? When will you be eligible for a raise? How much should you expect? These are all questions to ask at a job interview.

Bring up any other concerns that you may have. If you’re looking for opportunity for advancement, it would be nice to know beforehand if the company promotes within or hires management from outside the company. If you want to work for a community-minded company, this is the time to find out how the company operates in the community.

If you forget questions to ask at a job interview but think of them later, call the employer. Most people will be more than happy to address any concerns that you have.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/compensation-and-benefit-strategies-for-a-more-rewarding-career.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/compensation-and-benefit-strategies-for-a-more-rewarding-career.html Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
When you begin searching for a new career, you should have a good idea what you expect in a new position. Make a list of the things that are important to you. Your list should include an acceptable salary range and should outline the benefits you cannot live without. Leave some room for negotiation. Create two lists if you must: a list of desirable benefits and a list of must-have benefits.

When you go into a job interview, you should know which benefits are deal breakers. This will help you when it comes time to implement your compensation and benefit strategies. When an employer knows what you expect and what you cannot live without, he or she will be better able to address your needs. You may even be able to pass over benefits that you don’t need in exchange for benefits that are extremely important to you.

Do not exclude anything on your “desirable list.” If you want transportation and parking reimbursement, include this on your list. Do you have to attend training and educational seminars? Ask if you will be reimbursed for this training. Are there any club memberships that come along with employment? How about networking opportunities? Before you talk to your employer about your needs, study the benefits that are already offered by the company. Do not be afraid to ask for benefits that are included in benefit packages for positions other than the one you are applying for.

Do not think that you will get all that you desire. Compensation and benefit strategies should be used to get those benefits that you cannot live without. Be willing to negotiate. Can you take a lower salary in exchange for better health insurance? If you have a clear idea of what you want and what you can live without, you will be better equipped to negotiate a benefits package that works to your benefit.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/how-to-use-interview-portfolios-to-your-advantage.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/how-to-use-interview-portfolios-to-your-advantage.html Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
Portfolios have always been popular among artists, architects and other creative professionals. Today, portfolios are showing up at all types of job interviews to grab a potential employer’s attention. This can be done using graphs, charts and pictures that highlight your work experience. You can include projects that you have worked on. You might even want to think about developing a Power Point presentation to sell yourself to an employer.

When it comes to creating interview portfolios, imagination is key. You don’t want your portfolio to look like an Elementary homework assignment. It needs to be professional and you need to carry it professionally. Do not bombard your employer with oversized posters and folders. Worried about going over the top? Always make sure that you can carry your portfolio in a briefcase. If you need to use a laptop to present your portfolio, do so. Just be sure that everything is in scale and of adequate size.

Another way to put your portfolio into the hands of possible employers is to use a personal website. Before you do this, however, you need to be sure that you do not include any information that you or your past employers would not want publicly displayed. If you have any doubts as to what information a past employer will allow you to use, contact the employer directly. This could save you a lot of hassles in the long run.

A portfolio is a great way to show employers that you will be a great addition to their team, but you should be careful to not go overboard. Create interview portfolios that are customized to the position you are applying for. Avoid including skills and accomplishments that are not pertinent to your future position. You should also include information that highlights your communication skills. Companies want to hire people that can communicate well. They also want to hire people that can write captivating text. Demonstrate that you can do both with an interview portfolio.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/resume-writer-does-your-career-hunt-need-a-boost.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/resume-writer-does-your-career-hunt-need-a-boost.html Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
Read over your resume. There could be spelling and grammatical mistakes that you're not aware of. These are a huge turn off to potential employers. Take a moment to think about the language that you used. Can you change the wording to make it sound more professional?

Is your resume relevant? If you are in the midst of a career change, your resume may not be relevant to the position you are applying for. Trim away experience and qualifications that do not qualify you for the job you are applying for. A mixed resume is confusing to employers. Show them why you are qualified for the job by highlighting pertinent experience only.

Find ways to make your resume stand out from others. Highlighting your accomplishments is a great way to do this. Woo your future boss and show them why you are a great hire.

If you are still unhappy with your resume, you may want to consider hiring a resume writer. A professionally-polished resume may get you noticed, but it is not a guarantee of employment. Hiring a writer can be expensive as well. So, you should always weight the benefits against the drawbacks before you hire a writer.

Before you hire any writer, you should be sure of their qualifications. There are many people that say they can do the job, but can they? Always ask for writing samples and a fee structure outline ahead of time. Look for a service that has a flawless reputation. You may also want to select a professional that offers additional job seeking services as well.

If you need help finding a writer, start with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC). This association can provide you with a list of writers and an outline of their qualifications. All of the writers listed are certified and meet industry standards. If you choose not to use this service, be sure to research any writer or company that you plan to hire. Hiring a resume writer is not a task that should be taken lightly. It's your money and your career on the line. Make sure that you get what you pay for.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/how-to-create-a-cover-letter-for-jobs-that-you-dream-of.html http://www.articletrader.com/business/career/how-to-create-a-cover-letter-for-jobs-that-you-dream-of.html Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 -0500
You should avoid using a generic cover letter. Your letter should leave no doubt as to which position you are applying for. It should also include the name of the organization you are seeking employment with. Explain why you are the ideal candidate for the job. Outline how you will perform on the job, and do your best to woo the hiring manager with factual qualifications and experiences.

Follow these tips to create a perfect cover letter:

- Avoid writing a lengthy, rambling cover letter for jobs. You may very well have numerous qualifications that set you apart from others, but you should only include those that will be considered an asset to the position you are applying for. Pick and choose a few of your best, relevant qualifications and highlight these in an attention grabbing way.

- Ask for an opinion. Always have someone look over your cover letter before you present it to a potential employer. Listen to constructive criticism and adjust your letter accordingly. It can be very easy to overlook errors, and spell check is not fool proof.

- Again, never use a cookie-cutter cover letter. Write your letter from scratch, and make sure that it is a custom fit for the organization you are applying to.

- If your cover letter is full of grammatical errors and unfinished thoughts, it will be pushed down to the bottom of the pile. Make sure that your letter is well constructed, free of grammatical errors and flows from one point to another. Basically, make it a good read.

A cover letter for jobs is a tool that you can use to grab an employer's attention and make them want to meet you. Remember; your cover letter can make you or break you. Write a good one.

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CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>