End of the Year Is Prime for Job Hunting

by Robert McCauley, Robert Half International


According to conventional wisdom, there's no worse time to search for a job than when the year is winding down. But sometimes conventional wisdom isn't entirely accurate.

The truth is that the end of the year may be the best time to find a new job. Here are five reasons:

1. You face less competition. Buying into popular theory, many job seekers halt their quests for employment in November and December, choosing to save their efforts for when the calendar changes. But take a glimpse at the want ads, and you'll see that employers haven't stopped looking for talent. With fewer candidates vying for the same number of positions, you may have an edge over the competition, unlike no other time during the year.

2. More employers are hiring. Many firms, especially retail companies, increase their hiring efforts in winter to meet rising demand for their products and services. Even though seasonal jobs are often temporary, many hiring managers view these positions as extended, on-the-job interviews and offer full-time employment to promising hires.

3. Companies have budget surpluses. Some employers hire new workers at the end of the year because they have not yet used all of the funds they set aside earlier for adding new personnel. If the hiring managers don't increase headcount during the final two months, they may lose that portion of their budgets and be unable to bring aboard new employees at all.

4. It may be easier to secure an interview. Things often slow down at the end of the year due to vacations and the winter holidays. As a result, hiring managers may be less busy than usual and have more time to review your resume or call you in for an employment interview.

5. You'll get a jump on things. Even if some firms wait until the beginning of the year to add headcount, that doesn't mean they've stopped collecting resumes and considering candidates. By submitting your application materials now, you'll be first in line when the hiring process gets in full swing again.

As 2007 comes to a close, remember that employers are always on the lookout for strong professionals, especially in fields such as accounting and finance and information technology, where skilled workers are in short supply. That means there's no wrong time to look for your next job, no matter what conventional wisdom says.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.

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Make the Most of the Holiday Work Party

Naughty and Nice Behaviors to Watch Out For
by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs


For an event that's supposed to be fun, the annual holiday office party can sometimes be a tightrope walk between festive and fear-inducing.

If you worry that you're being observed for your behavior, you're not being paranoid. You are being watched. But business etiquette experts agree that a degree of party-going savvy can get you through the evening with your professional reputation intact, and may even give you a career boost.

What's Naughty

To make the most of the office party, experts strongly discourage:

* Drinking to excess. "We all know alcohol lowers your inhibitions," says Randall Hansen, founder and president of Quintessential careers. "And if you imbibe too much you might find yourself telling off the boss or pulling a co-worker under the mistletoe."

* Pulling anyone under the mistletoe. Flirting, or worse, sneaking off for a tryst, guarantees that you'll be part of the office gossip mill at least until the summer office picnic.

* Fashion experimentation. Keep the low-cut, leopard-skin dress at home. "Remember that the office party is still business, so it not the time to bring your wild side out," according to business etiquette expert Hilka Klinkenberg. In general, if your outfit would be out of place on casual Friday, it probably wouldn't be appropriate at the party.

* Gifting. Unless you bring (appropriate) gifts for everyone, some co-workers are bound to feel left out.

* Bringing guests. If the invitation isn't specific on who's invited -- including spouses, significant others, children, and pets -- either don't bring them, or check it out with the event planner.

What's Nice

If navigating the holiday party minefield is daunting, go anyway, experts say. "It will show you're a part of the team, and if you're absent it will be noticed," Klinkenberg says.

To make the most out of the event, use it to network. For the rules of the holiday schmooze, etiquette experts suggest:

* Mix and mingle. "You want to show you're good with people and confident in social situations, which is especially important if your job involves a lot of human interaction," according to Cynthia Lett, owner of the Lett Group. "This may be the one time when higher-ups in the company see your social skills, and a positive performance may give them enough ammo to recommend you when the promotion comes up."

* Keep it light. "It's OK to talk about your team's accomplishments, but don't bore everyone by bragging about your own," says Andrea R. Nierenberg, networking expert and president of the Nierenberg Group. Likewise, don't monopolize anyone's time with a complex dissertation of corporate strategy. Nierenberg suggests having a list of "small talk" topics in mind, or going to a company's website press page to find lighter, business-relevant conversation starters.

* Have an exit strategy. Knowing when to politely excuse yourself from a conversation and when to leave the party are two critical party-going skills. "You should instinctively know when it's right to move on to the next person, but when in doubt spend no more than seven minutes talking to someone," Nierenberg says. As for the amount of face time to spend, you don't have to stay the whole time, but a quick exit will be noticed. Conversely, don't stay until the bitter end; it may give the impression you're more party animal than professional.

* Be courteous. It's always a good idea to thank your party planner, and, especially if it's at a private residence, the host.

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Here We Come A-Networking

Use the Holidays to Make More Contacts
by Debra Davenport, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Just like you can never receive too many gifts at the holidays, you can never have too many contacts in your network. Being well-connected connotes success and influence -- the kind of cachet every serious professional seeks to achieve.

The holidays are a great time to build your list of influential contacts. Whether you're currently employed or searching for the perfect job, consider every invitation a chance to create new career-building relationships.

Here are several networking strategies that have proven successful:

* The best networking takes place at home. Inviting colleagues, prospects, clients, and contacts to your home establishes a more personal relationship. An invitation to your home also creates opportunities for reciprocal invitations and introductions to others' inner circle of contacts. Host a holiday open house, buffet, or afternoon tea. You don't have to impress by spending a lot of money. It's the invitation that counts.

* Give and you shall receive. Feeling altruistic this holiday season? Get involved with a charity. Volunteering leads to important connections and the development of relationships that are not just based on building business contacts, but on helping others.

* Don't assume. Don't reject invitations to events that seem like duds -- they often turn out to offer valuable networking opportunities. You never know who's going to be there. And, while it's possible you may connect with only one person, that connection could turn into a powerful, long-term relationship.

* Create your own networking opportunities. Start a holiday book club, a caroling troupe or a game night. Host a party to honor someone you admire, give an award or even create a scholarship program. There are countless ways of getting people together to enjoy the spirit of the season. All you need is one idea and an invitation.

* Use the Internet. Write a holiday blog or newsletter and e-mail it to your contacts. Include a "viral" element, such as a photo, video, news article, or original quote to prompt recipients to spread your message.

* Follow up with every person you meet. A handwritten note letting someone know you enjoyed meeting them is priceless today, and worth every minute. Your goal is to solidify your initial impression as a savvy professional -- and to be remembered.

* Use your business cards! Your business card is your best networking tool. Always have plenty on hand and don't be shy about handing them out. Include your card in your holiday mailings and attach them to business gifts. In between jobs? Personal "call me" cards printed with your name, descriptor (e.g., "Sales and Marketing Specialist"), and contact information are the perfect tool for self-promotion. Note: If you're employed but on the job hunt, it's proper protocol to use your personal cards rather than your company business cards.

Most importantly, remember that the holidays are a time of giving. Put the needs of others first while you're working the room. Benevolence is the greatest attribute of any job-seeker, regardless of the season.

Debra Davenport is president of DavenportFolio, a licensed firm with offices in Phoenix and Los Angeles that provides career counseling, Certified Professional Mentoring, professional employment placement and executive search services. She is the creator of the Certified Professional Mentor(R) designation, and you can contact her at debra@davenportfolio.com.

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The New World of Job Interviews

by Doug White, Robert Half International


The employment interview isn't what it used to be. While the vast majority of interviews are the standard face-to-face variety, technological advancements have made it possible for employers and applicants to connect quickly in other ways.

Some hiring managers conduct phone interviews during the early phases of candidate searches; others may request you meet via videoconference if you live far away. And, yes, certain companies even hold virtual job fairs.

Following are tips for success when participating in non-traditional job interviews.

The Phone Interview

Minimize distractions. Conduct the call from a quiet, private setting. You won't impress hiring managers if they hear loud pets, honking horns, or your clicking keyboard in the background. If possible, use a landline (which is often more reliable than cellular phones), and disable the call-waiting function.

Speak up. Because the interviewer can't read your facial reactions or body language, verbalize your thoughts. After the hiring manager completes a thought, say something like, "Yes, that aspect of the job sounds appealing" to keep the discussion moving. Speak with confidence and enthusiasm.

Have supplies handy. Keep your resume and cover letter at arm's length, as well as any company research you've collected. You also might prepare a bulleted list of speaking points or questions. Make sure a pen and pad are nearby for taking notes.

The Videoconference Interview

Mock it up. It's intimidating to be interviewed on camera. Calm jittery nerves by doing a trial run with a friend or family member. Record the mock interview and study areas where you can improve. Did you look at the camera, or did your eyes dart nervously around the room? Did you exhibit good posture or slouch? Rehearsing will help ensure you're polished at showtime.

Beware of busy backgrounds. Most video interviews are conducted at a videoconference site, your recruiter's workplace or an employer's satellite office. Wherever you are, remain the focal point by clearing the table of clutter. If you do the interview from home, choose a professional-looking, well-lit setting. In addition, make sure your computer's webcam and microphone are working properly a day in advance.

Dress to impress. Dress as nicely as you would for an on-site visit. And don't assume you'll only be visible from the shoulders up. More than a few jacket-clad candidates have unexpectedly been seated at see-through glass tables or stood up to reveal fashion faux pas such as jeans or shorts.

The Virtual Interview

Wear appropriate avatar apparel. An avatar is a computer-generated icon you create to represent yourself online. If you attend a virtual job fair on Second Life, a popular online community, for instance, your avatar should look professional. You don't necessarily need to don a virtual suit for an "in-world" corporate recruiting event, but don't show up as a flashy nightclub-goer, space alien, or vampire.

Message with care. When communicating via instant message on Second Life, focus on accuracy, not speed. Hiring managers will likely forgive a typo or two, but making a series of grammatical goofs will cause them to question your writing skills and attention to detail. Take a moment to proofread your message and steer clear of emoticons and cyber slang.

No matter what the meeting format, always send a thank-you note to those with whom you interview. Even when communicating with a hiring manager using high-tech tools, a traditional handwritten letter of appreciation will be well received.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit rhi.com.

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Overeating on the Job

Watch out for Snack Platters and Food Pushers
by Heather Boerner, for Yahoo! Hot Jobs


Between coworker birthday cakes, shared holiday-party leftovers, staff meetings with Danishes, and pizza-fueled late-night work sessions, it's easy to blow your diet while on the job. But it doesn't have to be.

"People are most successful in healthy eating when they can control their environment, as opposed to being in a negative environment and trying to control themselves," says nutritionist Katherine Tallmadge, author of "Diet Simple."

Take Control

Figure out which food temptations you can control.

If you're the boss, you can tell the person who orders food to bring a platter of fruit instead of cookies to the staff meeting, and ask your staff to stash junk food in drawers.

Not the boss? No problem. Consider these tips:

* Join the office snack committee. "Lobby for fresh fruits and veggies instead of baked goods," says Tallmadge.

* Plan ahead. If your office doesn't have a snack committee, or you don't want to be on it, you can still ask ahead what food will be provided for this week's late-night work session or staff meeting.

"Lots of people have to do this -- diabetics, people with food allergies, vegetarians -- so don't feel self-conscious," counsels Elisabetta Politi, a dietitian and nutrition manager at the Duke University Diet and Fitness Center.

* Share the health. Be an example to coworkers and set out a bowl of fruit on your desk and invite others to enjoy it. It could start a healthy trend, according to Tallmadge.

* Talk to coworkers. You may not have authority, but you can still ask coworkers to stash their candy and junk food in their drawers instead of leaving it out. Most people won't mind, says Politi.

Resist Food Pushers

You may run into resistance from people who not only won't comply with your requests, but will also undermine your diet by actively tempting you with food you don't want.

With these food pushers, your best bet is to not engage.

"When you tell a food pusher you can't have something, that you're on a diet, you're giving a double message -- you're saying, 'I really want it, talk me into it,'" Tallmadge says. "It's always best to simply say, 'No, thank you,' and then compliment lavishly the food she brings that is healthy."

The situation could be more difficult if the food pusher is a friend, and you used to eat junk food together. Politi advises that you two focus on the things you can do together that don't involve food.

"It's not about giving up friendships," she says. "Go for a walk with her and have meals with people who make healthy choices."

Be Flexible

Finally, the biggest challenge to a dieter's will power often comes from an all-or-nothing attitude, Politi warns. So don't fall into it.

"Look at it in perspective: You have 21 meals in every week," she says. "A few slices of birthday cake a month are no big deal. Most people have at least two meals a day they can control. Focus on that."

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How to Decide If You Need a Career Change

by Debra Davenport, for Yahoo! HotJobs


If you're not thrilled with your career, if you don't wake up excited about the day's prospects, or if you feel that your work has no intrinsic value, then it's time to get serious about making a change.

Knowing a Good Fit

The right career is a positive, productive and natural extension of you, your value system and your natural talents. The right career "fits"; it may not come effortlessly, but it does come naturally. It provides you with purpose, a positive self image and a sense of pride.

Just like finding your ideal mate, finding your ideal career has a lot to do with compatibility on many different levels. Your career must be a comfortable match with your personality, lifestyle, interests, skills, spiritual inclinations and values.

Signs of a Bad Fit

You know you're in the wrong career if:

* It is strictly a means to put food on the table
* It's just some job you took 10 years ago because, at the time, it was the only one you could find.
* Your parents are proud, but you're bored to tears.
* Your job makes you unhappy, damages your self-esteem, compromises your values, or undermines your integrity.
* You live for the weekend.

Assess Yourself

Here's another checklist to help you assess your current employment situation. Check the statements that apply to you (and ignore for now the letter after each statement):

1. I look forward to going to work most every day. (S)
2. My employer treats me fairly and with respect. (S)
3. I live for the weekend, or any days away from work. (G)
4. I feel valued and appreciated for my professional contributions. (S)
5. My workplace feels "toxic." (G)

6. I can be myself at work and not have to worry about being judged. (S)
7. I am included in my company's "information loop." (S)
8. My employer discusses with me and provides opportunities for advancement and professional development. (S)
9. I am commended for the extra effort I perform. (S)
10. I am stimulated intellectually and creatively by my work. (S)

11. I feel that I am making a positive contribution to society. (S)
12. I am compensated well for my work. (S)
13. I find myself daydreaming frequently about a new career. (G)
14. I feel that my work is a natural extension of who I am as a human being. (S)
15. I see myself as successful. (S)

16. I feel trapped and stuck in my current position. (G)
17. I feel in control of my career destiny. (S)
18. I am working at the level of my full potential. (S)
19. My current career negatively impacts those close to me. (G)
20. I have a desire to try something new and different. (G)

Now, count the number of "S" and "G" responses you have. "S" means "Stay" and "G" means "Go." This checklist is a reliable indicator of whether or not your present job is a good fit for you. Clearly, the more "G" ("Go") responses you checked, the more critical it is for you to start thinking about new opportunities.

Debra Davenport, PhD, is a Master Professional Mentor career counselor, and the president of DavenportFolio, a licensed firm that mentors entrepreneurs and professionals. She is the creator of the Certified Professional Mentor designation and certification program. Reach her at debra@davenportfolio.com or (480) 348-7875.

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Take Control of Your Email at Work

Six Steps to Increase Productivity, Minimize Clutter

by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Email makes workplace communication faster and more efficient -- but it can also be overwhelming.

Almost two-thirds of executives list email as their preferred method of communicating at work, according to an OfficeTeam survey -- a number that has almost doubled in the past decade.

"Email is front and center today," said Diane Domeyer, executive director of OfficeTeam, a division of staffing company Robert Half International. "Still, there can be too much of a good thing."

Experts offer the following tips for making email work for you.

* Send less. This doesn't mean you should forego important memos or leave people out of the loop. But you should think twice before you hit Send, especially if you're replying to everyone in a large group.

"Eighty percent of email is totally necessary," said Mike Song, CEO of Cohesive Knowledge Solutions and co-author of "The Hamster Revolution: How to Manage Your Email Before it Manages You." The key is to identify and eliminate the remaining 20 percent. "A lot of people will just hit 'Reply to All' to say thank you to somebody. And sometimes that person will hit 'Reply to All' and say you're welcome. It really gets in the way of getting things done."

* Set a schedule. Turn off the "ding" sound that alerts you to incoming mail. Figure out how frequently you need to answer your email: once a day? Three times a day? Then set aside time to read and reply to messages.

"It's easier to manage your email in chunks of time rather than continuously throughout the day," Domeyer said. For example, you can read and reply to email first thing in the morning, once in the middle of the day, and once at the end of the day.

* Use the technology. Use a good spam filter to remove the truly unnecessary mail. Also, set up folders for low-priority messages, such as notes from your professional association. You can check these folders as often as necessary -- once every few days, for example.

* Organize it. Make folders for your email so you can move messages out of your inbox once you've read them. This will make the messages in your inbox seem less overwhelming. It will also help you find messages later when you need to refer to them.

* Don't be too brief. It's good to make your emails as short as possible -- and especially tempting when you're typing on a PDA. But if you're replying to an email that mentions several ways to handle a problem, for example, and you reply with "sounds good," you may soon receive yet another email, asking which solution you think sounds good.

* Know when not to email. There are times when talking to someone, either in person or on the phone, is the better option. "If you have a difficult or challenging situation to resolve, better to do that in person," Domeyer said. "You'll find it to be more efficient and much more likely to be resolved in a satisfactory manner."

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Mixing Volunteer Work and Your Professional Life

by Sean O'Grady, CareerTV


Seton Hall University's Director of Career Services, Jacqueline Chaffin, answers questions about bringing up your volunteer experience as part of a job application and about mixing volunteer activities with your professional life.

Question: I do a lot of volunteer work but I don't want to look like a goody-two-shoes. What's the best way to bring up my activities during an interview?

JC: First, be proud of your volunteer experiences to date, as employers highly value these types of activities and are looking for in college grads.

Additionally, hiring managers know as new college grads, you may not have had significant internship experience or pre-professional experience.

Also, volunteer experiences are a great indication of one's passion, commitment, and dedication. All attributes that companies are looking for in new hires.

I want to start up a volunteer program at my job but I've only been with the company for three months. Is this OK, and if so, what's the best way to go about it?

First it's great that you want to start up a volunteer program at your company. However, it is advisable that you wait a minimum of six and possibly even nine months to make sure you have established yourself as a responsible and professional individual.

Then I would encourage you to seek the guidance of your immediate supervisor. He or she may direct you to someone in human resources who can provide more information about company policies. Many companies today are offering some release time for volunteer efforts. Maybe a day, possibly two days.

Again, if you get the green light to proceed, proceed cautiously, do your research, and always keep your supervisor apprised. And remember, any time dedicated to your campaign should be considered outside business hours.

Is it appropriate to ask coworkers or supervisors to sponsor you in charitable walks and marathons?

Generally yes, however, it is always advisable to seek the guidance of your supervisor and also consult with the company's policies, both formal and informal. It's best to run the idea by your supervisor.

And if he or she gives you permission, it is acceptable to send a one-time email to the colleagues that you work day in and day out with. It is not appropriate to send a mass email to everyone in the company or knock on the door of someone you don't know.

Also, always remember to thank those who did contribute to your charitable organization and be sure to keep any work on your charitable organization out of working hours.

See the video of this article and get more career help and employer videos at www.careertv.com where you'll find the largest collection of career videos online.

Copyright 2008 CareerTV, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Moving Out of the Midcareer Morass

How to Mix It Up and Build on Your Experience
by Robert DiGiacomo, for Yahoo! HotJobs


If you have at least 10 years of experience in a particular field, job hunting in the current market presents a special challenge.

You're beyond entry-level in terms of experience -- and salary expectations -- yet you're not quite ready for the executive suite, either.

In this tough job market, you could fall between the cracks of employers seeking low-cost, green trainees, and more proven managers to right their corporate ships.

Here are ways to negotiate this in-between status and take a positive, next career step.

Don't Erase Your Dates

Instead of taking the dates off your resume to seem younger, embrace your experience, by preparing an "accomplishment-based resume," says Rachelle J. Canter, president of RJC Associates.

"Show that the extra years provide critical achievements and seasoning that a younger competitor cannot hope to attain," says Canter, author of "Make the Right Career Move."

Right Resume for the Right Job

At the same time, it's perfectly acceptable to develop different versions of your resume tailored to different positions, according to career coach Rebecca Kiki Weingarten.

"For each job, you don't need to list all of your skills," Weingarten says. "Just include what's relevant to whatever they're looking for. You don't want to overwhelm employers. When you go for an interview, you can mention extra skills and experience."

Honesty Really Is the Best Policy

If you're applying for a position for which you may be overqualified, address the issue head-on in a cover letter, recommends life and career coach Shawn Driscoll.

"Don't leave it to the resume screener to jump to conclusions," Driscoll says. "Maybe you are looking to diversify your career experience, and so you're willing to take a step back or a pay cut. Say so. Then, sell your experience and your results."

The Storytelling Advantage

When you land an interview, come armed with compelling anecdotes of real world problems -- and how you solved them.

"Younger job seekers won't have stories -- they'll just have theories," Driscoll says. "Give real situations, the action you took, and the results you achieved."

Calling Style 911

Your resume may not be the only thing that needs updating. Your favorite power suit may look tired, or your hairstyle or glasses could be trapped in the '90s. Image consultant David A. McKnight of DAMstyle recommends perusing fashion magazines and catalogs to assess current trends, and tossing items from three to five years ago that seem out of date.

At the same time, not every hot trend will flatter you, so ask a fashion-savvy friend for advice, or consult a professional to help you figure out your personal look.

"Just because a particular style is popular, it doesn't mean you should be wearing it," McKnight says.

Reinvent Yourself

Finally, you may not have planned to be looking for a new position, but if your job wasn't really your intended career, it could be a good time to forge a new path.

"Having been in a profession for a period of time, use this time to look at your future in another way," Weingarten says. "Instead of saying, I thought I was going to accomplish, x, y or z, you can ask yourself, 'What do I want to do from here on in?"

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10 Hot Jobs That Start at $50K+

by Cherie Berkley, PayScale.com


You may be the new kid on the job block, but that doesn't mean your salary has to start low on the totem pole. The PayScale.com Salary Survey identified an array of exciting jobs that pay a total compensation close to or above an impressive $50,000 per year right from the start.

Here is a list of 10 hot professions that show you the money.

1. Investment Banking Analyst. If you are good with numbers and solving real-world problems, this job pays handsomely in the early years and has strong long-term earning potential.
Typical Starting Salary: $59,084

2. Business Analyst, Computer Software. Data mining is a new and hot field with strong career potential. Normally used by financial institutions such as banks, data miners sort through vast amounts of information that help companies make the best use of the information in their data warehouses. Master's degrees in computer science, physics, or statistics are usually required.
Typical Starting Salary: $50,727

3. Forensic Computer Analyst. Computer forensics is the analysis of information contained within and created with computer systems and computing devices. These analysts investigate causes of computer meltdowns, who has misused a computer system, or how someone committed a crime. These professionals are quite popular in white-collar criminal investigations.
Typical Starting Salary: $51,852

4. Junior Associate Attorney. The financial scales of justice certainly tip toward the side of the average attorney. And just after five years experience the average salary jumps to $89,210. Depending on the field of specialty, the long-term earning potential is almost limitless. Big-shot lawyers like former Sen. John Edwards (malpractice) and celebrity criminal defense attorney Mark Gerago have cleaned up millions in their careers.
Typical Starting Salary: $52,678

5. Physical Therapist. If anatomy is your thing, physical therapy may be your path to greener pastures. PTs can even specialize in areas such as hand or back therapy to boost their marketability -- and salary potential.
Typical Starting Salary: $52,573

6. Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). Nursing opportunities never seem to go out of style, and neither does demand in this area. If a doctor cannot squeeze you in for an appointment, chances are there is a nurse practitioner standing by in his place. While nurse practitioners don't command the big bucks that physicians do, their services certainly don't come cheap.
Typical Starting Salary: $67,166

7. Electrical Engineer. It is easy to do the math on how marketable engineers are. Companies dig deep to lure young electrical engineers and other subspecialties across the board. Electrical engineers focus on using electricity to transmit energy. Payscale.com shows that experienced electrical engineers earn an average of $81,078.
Typical Starting Salary: $54,401

8. Software Engineer. Software engineers design, write, and test computer programs. Computer networking and information technology are hot fields that are here to stay.
Typical Starting Salary: $56,795

9. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. You don't have to be a physician or even science major to make big bucks in medicine. Just about anyone with a college degree and a killer personality can be trained in pharmaceutical sales. These professionals make sales calls to doctors' offices hoping to convince the doctors to prescribe the latest drugs made by the pharmaceutical company they represent. Seasoned pros can make six-figure salaries in this field.
Typical Starting Salary: $51,104

10. Veterinarian. Do you love animals? Veterinarians can combine a passion for their warm, furry friends with great earning power. With growing animal research and interest in pet care, veterinarian medicine is bound to be a popular profession for years to come.
Typical Starting Salary: $59,084

No matter what your skill, passion, or personality, the job market offers numerous professions that also have above-average starting salaries. Just keep your eyes open and reach for the green.

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5 Bad Excuses for Calling in Sick

by Roberta Chinsky Matuson, for Yahoo! HotJobs


At some point in time it happens to the best of us. We become disengaged with our jobs, boss or just life in general. Getting out of bed and making it to work feels like a job unto itself, and you wonder, "Why bother?"

Here are five bad excuses for giving in to the call-in-sick urge:

1. Your job is boring, and you no longer feel challenged.

Would you still feel like staying home if you were doing something to change the direction of your life? Maybe you chose not to return to school to finish your degree, so you have limited options. It is never too late to return to school. You can go part-time, full-time and even just weekends. There is also an entire world of online courses that knows no borders.

2. You work for a terrible manager.

You are not alone. According to a recent Gallup Management Journal (GMJ) survey of U.S. employees, nearly one-quarter of U.S. employees (24%) would fire their bosses if given the chance. And as many as 51% of actively disengaged workers would get rid if their leader if they could. The odds are pretty high that if you left your company because of your boss, you would encounter a similar situation at your next place of employment. Do your job well, and it will not be long before you are promoted out from under this person.

3. You are unable to meet tomorrow's project deadline.

Most likely you knew days ago this would happen. It may feel better to hide under the covers, but others are counting on you to complete your part of the project. Show up at your desk and ask your boss or other team members for assistance. Try and do a better job of planning, so you can avoid this from happening again.

4. You would rather be golfing.

Who wouldn't? Unless you are working for Callaway Golf Company, you are not being paid to be on the links. If you set your alarm for an early wake-up and get your work done, you will have plenty of time to play the back nine holes before the sun sets on the horizon.

5. You arrived home an hour before the start of the work day.

Poor "time management" on your part should not result in other people picking up your slack. Put on a pot of coffee, eat something healthy, and take a shower. It is your responsibility to show up for work.

If you are increasingly feeling the need to call in sick, then it may be time for a checkup. Schedule time off so you can reflect on the parts of your life that are no longer working. Think about what you can do today to cure whatever is ailing you.

Copyright 2008 Human Resource Solutions. All rights reserved.

Roberta Chinsky Matuson is the President of Human Resource Solutions and has been helping companies align their people assets with their business goals. Visit Roberta's new blog on Generation Integration or contact her at roberta@yourhrexperts.com.

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How to Deliver Unpleasant News at Work

by Marc Hertz, Robert Half International


You've known about an important project -- and its Monday morning deadline -- all week. But figuring it would be easy to complete, you didn't start on the assignment until Friday. Then, you realize the information you need will take a couple of days to track down, and there's no way everything will be done in time. Now, you have to explain what happened to your boss.

While it is tempting to use evasive tactics when conveying bad news, there are a number of downsides to only presenting the upside. These include potentially harming your professional reputation, losing your manager's trust or missing out on support that might have helped you resolve the situation. It goes without saying that honesty is always the best policy.

Following are suggestions on when and how to deliver unsavory news to your boss.

Early is best. Receiving bad news is, well, bad enough for a manager. But learning that your staff member has known about a problem and not told you about it for weeks can be infuriating. So don't delay telling your manager that you can't find the necessary figures for a report due tomorrow, for instance. It's best to let him or her know as soon as possible -- postponing the discussion is likely to make things worse, not better.

Bad news should come from you. If you don't immediately deliver the unpleasant news to your manager, you can trust that someone else will. If the bearer of bad news, for example, is an important customer who was less than pleased with how you handled a request, your boss will be extremely unhappy about being surprised and unprepared for the customer's call. In addition, your manager is much less likely to be sympathetic to your explanation if he or she had to hear the news from a third party.

Deliver the news in person, if possible. Don't send your manager an e-mail telling him or her that you mistakenly deleted a voice mail from a client detailing extensive last-minute changes to a contract. E-mail doesn't allow your boss to ask questions or you to fully explain how and why the incident occurred. It is much better to ask for an in-person meeting and stress that you need to speak to him or her right away.

Be direct (and don't make excuses). Once you're in your manager's office, avoid over-dramatizing the event; your boss doesn't want a list of reasons you believe the error was not your fault. Likewise, don't downplay a big mistake -- such as attaching the wrong file to an e-mail that was sent to a large distribution list. Acknowledge the problem, apologize to the affected parties and work with your manager on not only a solution but also a strategy for ensuring a similar incident does not occur again.

While all of these tactics are useful if you have bad news to deliver, it's best to avoid the need for this type of conversation in the first place. One way to do so is to ask questions -- of your manager, coworkers, and clients -- from the beginning of a project. When in doubt, it's better to request clarity than to have to come to your manager later about a problem.

Obviously, you cannot avoid all mistakes or mishaps at work. However, by delivering unpleasant news immediately and in person, you'll spend less time on the firing line and more on the production line.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices throughout North America, South America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. For additional workplace articles and podcasts, visit workvine.com.

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Cover Letters Count (More Than You Think)

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


If you're like most conscientious job seekers, you've put a lot of time and effort into your resume. But have you given your cover letter its proper due? If not, reconsider and revamp this most valuable document.

According to a new survey from OfficeTeam, a leading staffing service specializing in the placement of highly skilled administrative professionals, 86% of executives polled said cover letters are valuable when evaluating job candidates. And if you're not worried about hiring managers, you should be because your peers are using cover letters even when they apply electronically. OfficeTeam reveals that a whopping 8 out of 10 managers said it is common to receive electronic resumes accompanied by cover letters.

If you're not sure what makes a cover letter great, follow these seven suggestions from the experts at OfficeTeam.

1. Personalize it.
Instead of addressing your letter, "To Whom It May Concern," attempt to get the name of the hiring manager. OfficeTeam recommends, "If you don't know the hiring manager's name, call the company and ask."

2. Surf the Web with a purpose.
Put your ability to scour the Net to good use by researching your target company online. OfficeTeam advises that job seekers use what they learn to "demonstrate how [their] knowledge and skill fit the job" and could add value for that employer.

3. Bridge the gap.
If your resume is a bit sketchy in terms of employment gaps, your cover letter is the place to put a potential employer's mind at ease. "Explain how you filled the time," suggests OfficTeam. "Mention professional development courses or volunteer activities." This not only shows that you've kept your skills current but also that you weren't sitting about idly between positions.

4. Keep it concise.
A well-written cover letter is priceless; an over-written cover letter will wind up in the recycling bin. OfficeTeam counsels, "Leave something for the resume." You don't have to tell your entire professional story in a cover letter, particularly when it shouldn't exceed a few paragraphs.

5. Make the first move.
Don't sit passively by after applying for a job. Rather, OfficeTeam advocates that you take a proactive stance and "identify next steps, such as writing, 'I'll follow up with you next week to discuss meeting in person.'"

6. Make no mistake.
Neither the most cautious of eyes nor spell-check program can catch every error. Before you submit your materials, read them repeatedly. OfficeTeam also proposes, "Have a friend or mentor read [them] as an added precaution."

7. Let the applier beware.
If you want to increase the odds that your cover letter will be read, OfficeTeam leaders say, "When applying through online job boards, always choose the option to add your cover letter to your resume. When emailing application materials to a hiring manager, paste your cover letter within the body of your message."

Giving your cover letter the attention it deserves improves your chances of capturing a hiring manager's attention.

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Wise Beyond Your Years: How Young Managers Make It

by Amy MacMillan, Experience, Inc.


Your baby face has never been such a liability.

Twenty-five-year-old Wendy Brez, a public affairs manager, grew so tired of coworkers commenting on her age that she started wearing makeup and considered cutting her hair in an effort to look older. "I didn't expect my age to be an issue, and it is," says Brez, who works at Brooklyn Botanic Garden in Brooklyn, New York. "I really thought people would judge you on your merit."

"More young people are in management positions these days," says Barbara Kate Repa, vice president of content for HROne.com, a human resources portal. Young professionals have "fresh energy and new perspective" that companies find valuable at the management level. Age-related skepticism (and even criticism), however, is a challenge that these new managers must face.

Go Team, Go!

Young managers can make subordinates of all ages feel comfortable by emphasizing teamwork. "Being a manager doesn't mean I make final decisions," says Dennis Esser, 27, coordinator of publications at Northwest Missouri State University. "It means I collaborate with my players to come up with the best solutions and implement them." Esser has been coordinator for three years, manages three people, and oversees the creation of 600 publications, a website, and a $300,000 annual budget.

Esser's only management training (like so many other young managers) comes from carefully observing other managers. He's also aware that a sense of ownership is important for most employees. "I really try to let them take the ball with [projects], then I ask for a review session to give me the opportunity to give input and advice," he explains.

Brez started out at Brooklyn Botanic Garden as a public affairs associate in 1999, working under a manager who cultivated her ambitions. When the manager left, Brez was promoted. "I was thrilled, but I was also nervous, because I didn't have much management experience"

Brez says her youth has been a challenge in her role because it "creates a problem of respect. You know you can do the work, but because you are young, it may take a longer time to prove yourself." Brez has found other methods of building respect, like always showing appreciation to helpful colleagues. "It develops relationships," she says.

Tailored Approach

Esser quickly discovered that he sometimes has to tailor his behavior to a situation. For example, he knows that email is effective with his younger colleagues, but older colleagues want a more personalized approach.

Repa admits it's not easy to deflect criticism like "you look too young" when you are a young manager. "Just concentrate on what you were hired to do," she says. Jenny Phillips, a 23-year-old public relations manager at Greencrest in Columbus, Ohio, does just that.

As she says, "If you have the talent and skills and desire to accomplish your goals, you can, regardless of your age."

Copyright 1996-2008 Experience, Inc. - All Rights Reserved

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6 Tips for Making Vacation Work for You

by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Vacations are meant for relaxation, but some actually cause work-related stress instead.

Some people leave the office but don't leave their work behind, making cell phone calls and sending email from the beach. Others try to do all the work they would have done during their vacation before they leave -- or find it waiting for them when they return. And some skip vacations altogether because they feel they have too much work to do.

When vacations create more stress than they relieve, this can spill over into other areas of life: health problems, impatience with family and friends, problems getting along with coworkers.

Experts offer six tips for taking a truly relaxing vacation from work:

* Communicate. Make it as easy as possible for your coworkers while you're gone. Document what you normally do, and offer to help whoever is going to fill in for you before you leave.

"You don't want to go on vacation and as soon as you're gone, people start saying, 'I can't believe they didn't do that,'" said Valerie Frederickson, founder and CEO of Valerie Frederickson & Co., a human resource executive search and consulting firm.

* Delegate. This tip applies especially to managers, whose vacation behavior sets the tone for the entire group. If the boss answers emails within 30 minutes even while on vacation, the workers will likely assume they're expected to, as well. Instead, managers can use their vacations as opportunities to give their subordinates a chance to learn new skills by filling in for them.

* Plan for re-entry. It's easy to be overwhelmed the first day back from vacation -- by email, voice mail and a parade of people waiting to talk to you. Diane Foster, executive coach and president of Diane Foster & Associates, suggests that when you book your vacation, you also schedule your first few days back. Block out time to meet with your boss and anyone who works for you -- as well as to catch up on correspondence.

"Plan for how much time you're going to need to come back in," she said.

* Unplug yourself. Try not to check in while you're on vacation. That's what Frederickson does. "We don't bring computers, we don't check our email. We just don't," she said. "And we expect our employees not to."

* Don't brag. If you're lucky enough to be able to travel abroad or relax at a Hawaiian resort while on vacation, remember that some of your colleagues may be sticking closer to home.

"Nobody on the job wants to hear that you were swimming in the Aegean Sea while they were slogging through reports," Frederickson said.

* Set goals that work for you. Not all advice fits every situation. Some people are able to totally disconnect from work during vacations; others, due to their responsibilities or their company culture, may find it more realistic to simply limit how often they check in.

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How to Negotiate Your Exit

by Roberta Chinsky Matuson, for Yahoo! HotJobs

Few people think about negotiating when they hear the words, "Your services are no longer needed." Instead, they quietly pack up their personal items, say a few goodbyes, and quickly leave out the back door. Would you do things differently if you knew you could exit on your own terms?

Here are six things you can do to transition out of the organization with more than just your belongings.

Offer to stay until your replacement is found.

The last thing your boss wants to do is your job while trying to hire a replacement. Approach your manager with a plan to make this work. Will you put together a training manual that can be used by your replacement? Are you willing to stay on until your coworkers return from vacation? Remember to ask for the support you will need during this transition, such as time off to interview.

Ask for additional compensation.

Perhaps your job loss is part of a company-wide reorganization. You may think everyone is getting the same package, but that is rarely the case. Factors such as length of service and level in the organization are all considerations when assembling separation packages. If you don't ask you will never know what your employer might have been willing to give you.

If you are a member of a protected class (e.g., over the age of 40, women, minorities, etc.) you may have additional bargaining power. Employers would rather pay an additional few weeks of severance than risk going to court.

Ask if your benefits can be extended.

You may be able to retain your employee benefits for a bit longer if your employer is willing to pay your severance out over time. Check with your local unemployment office before asking for this option as this could affect when you may be eligible for unemployment benefits.

Ask for a letter of reference.

The actual letters mean little to prospective employers. However, your boss is less likely to say anything negative if he has provided you with a letter of reference.

If you are being fired, ask if you can resign.

It is an uncomfortable situation for everyone when someone is fired. To preserve your employment record, ask your supervisor if you can resign. Most employers will gladly accept your offer to prevent confrontation. If you take this route, be sure your employer agrees not to contest your unemployment claim.

Inquire about purchasing your computer.

In downsizing situations there is usually an abundance of equipment, like computers, that will no longer be needed by the company. You may be able to purchase a faster computer than the one you own at fire-sale prices.

Losing a job is never easy. Exiting with a nice package can certainly help ease the pain.

Copyright 2008 Human Resource Solutions. All rights reserved.

Roberta Chinsky Matuson is the president of Human Resource Solutions (www.yourhrexperts.com) and has been helping companies align their people assets with their business goals. You can visit her blog Generation Integration or contact her at Roberta@yourhrexperts.com.

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Top Three Career Dilemmas

by Marc Hertz, Robert Half International


In your professional life, many decisions are relatively easy. When you're asked by your manager to tackle an assignment, you do it. When a colleague needs help and you're available, you pitch in. When you're offered a job you want, you take it. But what about those tricky situations where the proper course of action isn't so clear-cut? They come up on rare occasions, but when they do, it's important to be prepared.

Following are career dilemmas you may encounter and suggestions for how to handle them:

Dilemma 1: You find out a colleague makes more money than you do.

You're at the copy machine and find a coworker's pay stub. Seeing the salary, you realize the person makes more than you, even though he has the same job.

Proper course of action: While you might be tempted to immediately march into your manager's office to demand an explanation -- and a raise -- take a more cool-headed approach. Going to your boss with financial concerns arising from confidential information will do more harm than good.

Instead, use this knowledge as an impetus to examine your own pay and value in the employment market, reviewing resources such as the U.S. Department of Labor's website and the Salary Guides published annually by Robert Half International. With an idea of what others in your area and with your skills and experience are paid, you can approach your manager and back up your request with relevant information that's not sensitive in nature.

Dilemma 2: You are offered a new job, but you're happy with your current one.

A friend who works at another company just found out a position has opened up there. He calls and pitches you the opportunity, saying he's sure you'd be a front-runner for the role. You're intrigued, knowing how much he raves about the organization, but you like your current job.

Proper course of action: Ask your friend for more information about the company and role, so you can see how it compares with your current situation. Are there opportunities for quick and steady advancement? How competitive is the salary and benefits package? What is the corporate culture like?

Assuming you're still interested, there isn't any harm in interviewing. This will give you the chance to find out more about the ins and outs of the position and get an additional perspective on the organization. If the interview goes well, you may want to seriously consider this new opportunity.

Dilemma 3: You have the opportunity to take on an important but difficult project.

You find out a major project is approaching, and your manager is looking for someone to lead it. It promises heightened visibility within the firm, but it's also a big challenge.

Proper course of action: If you're undecided about volunteering for the project, first ask yourself if you can handle the responsibility in addition to your current workload. At the same time, consider the abilities you'll develop by taking on the assignment. You'll improve your project management skills, meet people across the organization and potentially put yourself in position for even more challenging opportunities in the future.

If you are uncomfortable about the prospect of leading the project, ask your manager if there is another way you can be involved in it. Taking on at least a partial role can help you expand your skill set and increase your value to the firm.

These tough decisions and others like them can test the mettle of even the most experienced professional, mainly because there's no clear right or wrong answer. But by carefully considering your options and using sound judgment, you can come up with the best answer for you.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com. For additional workplace articles and podcasts, visit www.workvine.com.

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The Corporate Crystal Ball: Future Workplace Trends

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


The experts at Challenger, Gray and Christmas, the nation's first and premier outplacement consulting organization, have looked into the future to forecast what you can expect from the corporate world in the years to come. Curious? Read on to find out how and where you work today may be different than tomorrow.

1. Four-Day Workweeks (and Three-Day Weekends!)

The rising costs of fuel are driving some employers to allow workers to make their four-day workweek fantasy a reality. While not all professions provide all employees the opportunity to perform all their tasks in a fewer days, Challenger, Gray & Christmas reports, "Twenty-three percent of companies are now offering a condensed workweek, typically consisting of four 10-hour days."

Not everyone has to put in a full, 40-hour week to be effective. "With the latest productivity-enhancing tools, some workers are able to get their work done in a four-day, 32-hour week," says John Challenger, CEO of the outplacement firm.

2. Shape Up or Pay Up

Health-care insurance continues to take a big bite of everyone's bottom line. Expect employers to take a more personal interest in your well-being through mandatory corporate wellness programs. Challenger, Gray & Christmas predict, "Office equipment such as Steelcase's WalkStations, which allow workers to walk on treadmills while at their computers, will catch on nationwide." You can also look forward to your employer taking an interest in unhealthy behaviors you may engage in outside the office.

"More companies will follow the lead of one Indiana company, which announced that workers who allow health risks such as tobacco use, obesity or high cholesterol to go unchecked will pay more for their company health insurance beginning in 2009," says Challenger.

3. Why Your Degree May Be Company-Sponsored

College, or even graduate school, doesn't necessarily leave you prepared for the particular practices of a certain company. So that workers can hit the ground running, work more efficiently, and advance more quickly, Challenger, Gray & Christmas believe that large corporations will begin to create their own degree programs.

"Companies will initiate entire programs with precise coursework centered around their company culture and goals, eliminating the need for extensive on-the-job training, and saving both the company and the workers thousands of dollars," Challenger says.

4. Recruitment Goes Global

If you ever dreamed of working in another country, the possibility is drawing ever closer. Challenger explains, "The expansion of the global economy will likely lead to a global talent pool where companies will aggressively pursue the best available workers, regardless of where they reside." The firm's research reveals that corporations in Europe and Asia have already increased their efforts to recruit foreign talent -- yet another reason to keep your passport current!

5. Kiss Your Cube Goodbye

Are you tired of the solitude of your cubicle? If so, John Challenger's got some good news for you. "In order to maximize employee interaction and teamwork, many companies will eliminate the isolating cube and redesign their workspace to feature common areas, conference rooms, and tables, as opposed to individual desks." Look for greater access to wireless so that you can work in different locations with your laptop -- and increased opportunities for telecommuting.

6. HQ's Get 86'd

The image of a hulking headquarters building will fade as fast as old newspapers in the years to come. Challenger, Gray & Christmas are envisioning the death of "Death Star"-like behemoths at which all employees must work. Instead, says Challenger, "In an effort to cut real-estate costs, become more eco-friendly and attract the growing number of works who want increased work-life balance, more and more companies will adopt a 'work wherever you want, whenever you want' policy."

If professionals require a traditional office, they will "work in leased office space close to their homes." Some companies are already embracing this forward-thinking notion, including AT&T, Best Buy, and Sun Microsystems, the latter of which estimates that it saved $400 million in real-estate costs over a six-year period, according to Challenger's research.

7. Athletes Aren't the Only Free Agents

Baseball and basketball players, among others, aren't the only talented people who can be free agents. Expect more white-collar workers to follow their example. "The move to hiring temporary and contract employees, freelancers and consultants is beneficial for both companies and workers," Challenger says.

Companies, he believes, will save money and can add support on an as-needed basis while free agents enjoy flexibility in terms of when they work and types of projects they accept while also increasing their earning potential. And this prediction is already taking root, as Challenger, Gray & Christmas reveal that more than one-third of the U.S. workforce will be comprised of free agents by the year 2012 (according to market research firm EPIC-MRA).

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Vacation-Planning Primer

A Strategic Approach to Preparing for a Restful Break
by Doug White, Robert Half International


When did relaxing become so stressful? For many busy professionals, the thought of preparing for a week or two away from the office is so burdensome that they forgo the hard-earned break altogether. After all, it's difficult to recharge when you go into a vacation exhausted, then spend every moment worried about the mountain of work you'll return to.

If this sounds familiar, consider the following tips for planning a more restful respite:

Recognize the rewards of relaxation. Whether you head to the French Riviera or stay in your hometown, stepping away to focus on something other than work is healthy -- and necessary. Decompressing for a week or two can increase your on-the-job effectiveness. In a Robert Half International survey, a majority of executives said that employees are more productive after a vacation.

Be time-sensitive. Another survey by our company shows that employers prefer that their teams take scheduled time off during the summer. Thirty-six percent of executives said August is the most favorable month for staff to take vacations; 21 percent said July. While workload peaks and valleys vary from organization to organization, help yourself (and your coworkers) by choosing a time when activity slows.

Create an action plan. Make a prioritized to-do list broken down into (a) assignments you absolutely must complete before leaving, (b) tasks that can be handled by others while you're away, and (c) work that can wait until you return. Meet with your supervisor to ensure that you're both on the same page. If you are worried about projects that need to be completed while you're away, ask your manager about bringing in temporary workers to help keep assignments on track. Also, arrange your schedule so that you can complete the majority of your action items before your last day. You'll spare yourself some grief by building in extra time to handle any last-minute requests.

Identify a point person. While several team members may pitch in to maintain workflow in your absence, ask one trusted colleague to serve as the point person. Tidy up your work area and show him or her where you keep pivotal information -- both electronically and on your desk. Moreover, consider providing written instructions for resolving some of the most common issues you encounter. Foster goodwill by letting your backup know that you'll happily return the favor when it's his or her time to hit the beach.

Use technology to your advantage. It's best to provide key colleagues, customers and clients with a few weeks' notice before taking off. But don't forget to leave thorough out-of-office email and voice-mail messages noting how long you'll be gone and the names and contact information of those who are covering for you. In addition, go through your email inbox and delete nonessential messages to free up space for bulky files that may be sent while you're gone.

Finally, set firm boundaries. Request that you either not be contacted during your vacation or only in the event of an emergency. And be disciplined about disconnecting. If you think you'll be tempted to check your email remotely or call into the office for status updates, take a break from your electronic gadgets, too. Remember: To truly derive the benefits of a vacation, you must give yourself permission to simply relax and enjoy yourself.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices throughout North America, South America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com. For additional workplace articles and podcasts, visit workvine.com.

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The Rules of Workplace Style

Fashion Tips for Men and Women
by Robert DiGiacomo, for Yahoo! HotJobs


The power suits for men and women may no longer set the style standard in today's "business casual" workplace, but how you dress for the office still matters.

"People who dress better are typically treated better at work," says David McKnight, a New York City-based image consultant. "They are usually given more responsibility and are shown much more respect."

Here are tips on what to wear -- and what not -- so you can make the best impression on your boss, your colleagues, and your clients.

The Big No-No's

Business casual isn't a fashion free-for-all, says Susan Bixler, president and founder of the Bixler Consulting Group.

The Atlanta-based consultant has created guidelines for business-casual dress for those just starting out, workers at mid-career, and those eyeing the executive suite.

The "baseline" look starts with three no-no's -- no flip-flops, no jeans, and no visible tattoos -- and calls for tailored trousers and long-sleeve shirts or tops for men and women.

The "mid-stream" look is similar but with an emphasis on higher-quality fabrics. The executive version ups the sartorial ante by recommending jackets for men and trouser-style suits for women.

"Any time you want to add authority, put on the jacket," says Bixler, the author of seven books, including "The New Professional Image: From Business Casual to the Ultimate Power Look."

All Suited Up

If you're unsure about the dress code -- or lack thereof -- for a prospective employer, you can ask in advance. But McKnight believes you really can't go wrong by donning a jacket or wearing a suit.

"A suit is a nonverbal way of communicating to the employer that you really want the position and that you are taking the interview extremely seriously," he says.

Style Challenges

Women, advises Bixler, should avoid too much of a good thing, whether it's clothes that are too tight, or too much make up, jewelry, or fragrance.

Men often make the mistake of showing up in casual clothing more appropriate for poker night with the guys than the office, or showing up at work unshaven or with dirty, unpolished shoes.

"There's an expectation [for both sexes] to look professional," Bixler says. "Women have more opportunity to make mistakes because there are more options for women. For men, it's more straightforward."

Too Much Skin

Edgy looks, especially those involving the baring of cleavage, skin or tattoos, rarely cut it at the office, unless you happen to work in a trend-conscious field like advertising or fashion.

"When you're not sure whether something is appropriate for work, then there's a 98 percent chance that it's not," McKnight says.

The Whole Look

Choosing the right clothing is just one component of your professional look, which includes good grooming and hygiene, as well as being well-rested and mentally ready to face the day.

"There are so many things we don't have control over, but what we can control is the image of professionalism we show to the world," Bixler says.

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Not All Artists Starve: Creative Jobs That Pay Well

by Aimee Chou, EarnMyDegree.com


The myth of the "starving artist" has painted a liberal-arts or fine-arts degree as a death knell to financial stability, leading some "creatives" to become accountants instead. But is the myth really true?

Less Wonk, More Warhol

Without an MBA or M.D., you can still have a well-paying career. Now is an ideal time to embrace your right brain, with a few guidelines:

Go digital. Oil never goes out of style, but pixels pay better in today's market. Invest in a raster-based digital paint application, to stay in tune with the times and still somewhat true to traditional media.

Major in business, minor in fine arts. Like supply and demand, marketing and fine arts are two sides of the same coin. Learn to sketch out a business plan, and your art just might thrive.

Market yourself. Artists starve when commercialism doesn't match creativity. Talent notwithstanding, your work must endear you to a gallery or company's bottom line via marketing or target audience analysis.

Think "four tiers." Artists fit into one of four categories, and so do their income brackets (median salaries from the Bureau of Labor Statistics):

* Art director: Oversees design, layout, copywriting, and more. $68,100
* Multi-media artist: Animators, graphic designers, and game developers. $51,350
* Fine artist: Painters, sculptors, and illustrators. $41,970
* Craft artist: Works ceramics, textiles, stained glass, and more. $24, 090


Hot Art-Related Fields

According to Daniel Pink, author of "A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future," left-brained jobs are increasingly outsourced. What remains are more art-related opportunities than ever -- requiring intuition, pattern recognition, and holistic meaning (salaries from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unless otherwise noted):

Postsecondary teacher. Art is back -- and bigger than ever -- on the curriculum. Neuroimaging studies show that the arts affect student cognition, reigniting a hot career path. From music to performing arts schools, students everywhere need inspiring teachers. Median Salary: $51,240.

Greeting card writer. Make a living by making people laugh, cry and reminisce. Half sentimental and half humor, this $7.5 billion industry is perfect for creative freelancers. Salary: Two tiers of payment range from $35-$50 to $75-$125 per assignment (Greeting Card Association).

Grant writer. Even if art grew on trees, funding it doesn't. For performing, visual, and literary arts organizations, it comes from compelling proposals. As a bonus, you'll vicariously indulge in the excitement of watching art come to life. Median Salary: $49,623.

Video game developer. This industry never sleeps, as gamers are always waiting for the "next big thing." Don't snooze on the chance to turn your hobby into a vocation -- as a software tester, documentation writer and more. Median Salary: $51,350 (multi-media artists).

Architect. This dual-brained career is growing fast to accommodate infrastructure changes. For a surefire foot in the door, add computer-aided design and drafting technology skills to your portfolio. Median Salary: $62,960.

Curator. Love all things historic, aesthetic, and preserved? As a curator, you'll wear multiple hats doing what you love -- including administration, PR, fundraising, and technology (like digital imaging and scanning technology). Median Salary: $46,300.

Brand manager. More globalization, products, and competition means more careers. Managers mix creativity with business smarts to differentiate one brand among many and ultimately maximize product sales. Median Salary: $72,620.

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8 Steps for Staying Stress-Free in a Tough Economy

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


It seems we've become a bad news nation as of late, with one headline after the next forecasting economic gloom and doom. Looming layoffs, pricey holidays, and even the coming election may have you on edge and stressed out. But stress is bad for your health and it's also bad for business.

Fear not, though. "The good news is that stress can be managed. Kept in its rightful place, stress will keep you motivated without overwhelming you -- or overshadowing your capabilities," says Liz Bywater, Ph.D., a behavioral change agent. Use her eight tips to manage your stress so you can manage to do (and keep) your job.

1. Breathe. It sounds simple, but Bywater reminds readers, "As our bodies respond to stress, our breathing tends to become rapid and shallow. By deliberately slowing your breathing and taking deep, calming breaths, you will help your mind and body relax and refocus."

2. Eat right. If you're eating on the go, without putting thought into what you're consuming, odds are that it isn't good for you. She states, "A diet of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats -- typical of vending machine and fast food dining -- leaves you depleted of energy and unable to give your all." Put time into planning to eat healthful meals and stay hydrated. Adds Bywater, "You'll more than make up any lost time through improved productivity and increased focus."

3. Exercise. It's impossible to find the time to exercise -- you have to make the time. Bywater believes that a key to committing to regular exercise is to "find what you like and do it." With regular exercise, she says, "You'll feel calmer, more in control, and better able to take on the every day pressures and demands of work. I recently started boxing on my daughter's Wii system. It's a great cardio workout and a fun way to release the day's tensions!"

4. Sleep. In times of stress, the worst thing you can do is skimp on sleep. Bywater recommends six to eight hours of undisrupted sleep a night to make sure you've got enough fuel to perform under pressure. She suggests, "Establish regular nighttime routines, stay away from caffeine, put away the laptop, and listen to music or read a good book before going to sleep each night."

5. Keep your eye on the big picture. It's easy to get bogged down in day-to-day minutiae ? but remember to think big. Advises Bywater, "Don't waste precious time on low impact, non-essential tasks. Instead, dedicate your time and attention to those activities that move you in the direction of reaching your vision and achieving your goals."

6. Share the load. Even Superman and Wonder Woman got an assist from some of their Superfriends from time to time. She insists, "No matter how talented or experienced you may be, you simply cannot do it all." Instead of striving to be a solo act, says Bywater, "Delegate where appropriate. Collaborate. Divvy the workload. Share responsibility for the final product." If you follow her cues, everyone shares in the glory.

7. Strive for success -- not perfection. The best way to set yourself up for failure is to pursue perfection. Perfectionists are not only procrastinators -- they usually fail to appreciate their successes. To avoid this trap, Bywater recommends, "Do your job well, really well, and your achievements will be recognized and rewarded."

8. Celebrate your wins. A professional psychologist, Bywater points out, "It's not unusual for high performers to continually raise the bar for themselves, but it's vital to balance this striving for excellence with a healthy celebration of successes." She suggests taking time out to acknowledge your accomplishments. "Celebrating success is a wonderful antidote to stress," she adds.

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Are You and Your Boss Compatible?

Tips for Working With Different Boss Personality Types
by Bridget Quigg and Lydia West, PayScale.com


Every relationship has its own set of issues -- even, and maybe especially, the relationship you have with your boss. The secret is discovering the best ways to work with your particular boss and all the preferences and personality traits they bring to the table.

Whether your boss is a charming hand-shaker or prefers spreadsheets to people, we have some advice on how to create the best possible working relationship with the person who holds the fate of your paycheck in their hands.

Boss Type: The Performer

New client dropping by in five minutes? Sounds great! Last-minute presentation? No problem! This extrovert thrives under pressure and loves to entertain clients (and everyone else). He's very comfortable taking center stage, whether it be in the board room, at a client dinner or around the water cooler.

The Pros:

* Keeps the office atmosphere more fun and lively.
* Very good at reading others and making them feel at ease.

The Cons:

* May try too often to jump in and "help you" during a presentation or meeting.
* Prefers to leave the details to someone else.

Most compatible employees for the Performer: Detail-oriented planners who know just when to bring the boss in to charm big clients or partners.

Best strategies for working with the Performer: If you're less than comfortable speaking in public or schmoozing with clients, take the opportunity to learn from your boss. He'll likely be happy to help you grow in an area where he feels strong. On the other hand, if you find you're regularly being edged out of the spotlight in meetings, have a quick conversation to let him know you're trying to improve your leadership skills and would like to have the floor more often.

Boss Type: The Dreamer

From new locations and bigger profits to more employees and brand new product lines, this person is great at coming up with new, creative ideas.

The Pros:

* Always willing to push the envelope and innovate.
* Inspires other with their enthusiasm.

The Cons:

* Does not always consider the logistics needed to turn their "big ideas" into reality.
* Is ready to move on to another project before the last one is complete.

Most compatible employees for the Dreamer: Realists with vision. A boss whose head is in the clouds needs employees who will help them focus their energy on the best of their ideas and develop plans to make those dreams a reality.

Best strategies for working with the Dreamer: If it doesn't already exist, suggest a process for vetting ideas before they make it to a planning stage. If an idea holds up to close scrutiny, do the work needed to set a schedule and keep the project moving forward. Keep your boss engaged and excited about the project by scheduling regular progress meetings. Be sure to enlist their help to work through interesting challenges that arise.

Boss Type: The Cheerleader

Your email to that client? Fantastic! Your comments during that meeting? Brilliant! Your boss thinks that everything you do is wonderful, or at least that's what they tell you.

The Pros:

* Helps boost your confidence about your skills and potential.
* Does not wallow in difficulties or obstacles and keeps morale high.

The Cons:

* Hides more critical feedback that could help you learn your job better.
* Does not predict potential difficulties and plan for them.

Most compatible employees for the Cheerleader: Independent workers who don't require a lot of hand-holding or specific direction to do their job well.

Best strategies for working with the Cheerleader: Everyone likes to feel appreciated, so that shower of compliments about your most recent presentation can be wonderful to hear, but if you're never challenged to improve, it's easy to get bored ... or worse, blindsided. The danger here is that your boss may have issues with your performance and just has a hard time expressing it. While asking for critical feedback can seem like a foolish endeavor, ensuring that you truly know how your boss views your job performance is critical to your success. Be as specific as possible about what you want to know. Ask questions like, "I feel like I let that meeting get a little off-topic. Do you have any tips for me to handle things better next time?"

Boss Type: The Super Achiever

Another spreadsheet? More meetings? Tighter deadlines? This person loves to say, "Sure, we can do that!" They're happy to hustle and keep the business coming in.

The Pros:

* Helps increase everyone's earnings by attracting customers.
* Is confident that anything is possible.

The Cons:

* Can lack realistic expectations about timelines and deliverables.
* Has a hard time setting boundaries with clients.

Most compatible employees for the Super Achiever: Good communicators who aren't afraid to push back, especially when they think taking on additional work might put other projects in jeopardy.

Best strategies for working with the Super Achiever: The key to working with a Super Achiever is knowing when to rein in expectations and when to just roll with the extra work. You don't want your boss to view you as a naysayer. Rather than exclaiming, "There's no way we can take that on," help your boss see how everything can be achieved in a more realistic timeframe. Another good idea is to keep a running list of your projects and schedule a regular meeting with your boss to review and prioritize them. This way both of you know what you're working on and hopefully, you can collectively set more realistic expectations that won't have you working an 80-hour week.

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