excelle

7 Secrets to Hosting Thanksgiving Without Losing Your Mind

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:23:00 -0800

I'm hosting my first thanksgiving this year.

While its not as sexy as i dreamed—decorating the table with my fiance as my new engagement ring sparkles in the chandelier—I'm very excited.

And stressed.

In less than a week my sister and I will be hosting seven members of our family at my apartment in Chicago.

Amidst our preparation over the last month there have been countless lists, several spats, a dozen phone calls and about 10 thousand recipes. And perhaps one or two panic attacks.

So in light of my experience planning my first thanksgiving (results pending, of course), I've come up with six ways to maintain your sanity when you're the host; a handful of quick, at-a-glance survival tips to help your event run (even more) smoothly.

1. Have a plan

Make a game plan for the day including recipes, oven temps, allergies, etc. Make sure to schedule in 15 extra minutes for each cooking component. I happen to be an avid list maker, but my sister Emma always takes it up a notch with lists that include detailed time schedules.

I have often mocked her for these meticulous lists she makes (especially the time she plotted out our entire weekend with our mom including time slots for coffee and conversation)

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But for this occasion, her schedule making came in handy. We've planned what we are making and when, with time scheduled for cleanup and table prep. While this step may seem tedious up front, once you have everything down on paper you will feel ready to tackle anything.

Hot tip: Sign up at www.Butterball.com to receive tips and reminders via text message.

2. Divide and Conquer

Whatever you do, do not do this alone. I know, I know. You're probably thinking, "Isn't this all about hosting your own thanksgiving?" But in order to escape this first feat unscathed you have to find a partner in crime, or several. Dole out tasks specific to the guest/family member's age and abilities. Put your cousin and her husband on appetizer duty. Tell Uncle Larry to bring the wine. Have your teenage niece set the table. Working together is what the first thanksgiving was about anyway, isn't it?

3. K.I.S.S.

Thats right, Keep it simple, stupid. Don't try and get too fancy on your first run. Stick to traditional items and limit yourself to one new fun dish. I found a killer recipe on Epicurious.com for chipotle sweet potatoes. Even Aunt Helen can't complain about that.

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4. Stay Calm

Pick some key "gloss overs" in case any uncomfortable topics arise.

In our family we like to avoid the three D's: divorce, debt and the Dow.

If for some reason these subjects arise we have armed ourselves with some key gloss over transitions like, "Drew, tell us about your new job!" or "So Mike, what is Portland like this time of year?". The last thing a Thanksgiving dinner needs is uncomfortable conversation or—heaven forbid—a full blown fight. Keep in mind a few harmless topic areas that will provide safe transition back to neutral ground. You'll be glad you did.

5. Set the Mood

I come from the belief that candles make everything better. Dim the lights, put on some Michael Buble or Mat Kearney and watch the atmosphere take on a much more peaceful vibe (or if you're one of those freaky families that listens to Christmas music before Thanksgiving, play some Bing Crosby). You'll be surprised how relaxed you'll feel when the ambiance is right.

6. Personalize it

Find one way to make this dinner your own. Come up with a 'What are you thankful for?' game by using the alphabet and going around the table and having each guest name something they're thankful for (start with A and so on and so forth).

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Another option is to make fun and unique place cards for the table. I go to Real Simple for creative and festive table setting ideas. At the very least, buy yourself a fun apron. These are the personalized moments where you get to take advantage of your privileges as hostess.

7. Remember your priorities

Don't be a perfectionist. No one is going to notice your mistakes (except, maybe your mother-in-law). There's a first time for everything — hiccups and road bumps are to be expected. Relax and laugh about it.

Whatever you do, don't let the real meaning behind this holiday escape you: there is a lot we all have to be thankful for.

In closing, I thought you all might appreciate some sarcastic advice I received from my friends while researching this topic. I asked, "What advice do you have for someone hosting their first Thanksgiving?"

• Limit your time with family so you can still be thankful for them when they leave

• Tell your guests that dinner is served 40 minutes before the actual time so that all of your notoriously late friends will be early

• Don't host Thanksgiving

• Have a turkey pinata to release pent up energy

• Wine. And then more wine

What about you? What advice do you have (sarcastic or otherwise)?

Five Friends You Should Have at Work

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:07:00 -0800

You spend most of your day at work. Why not make some friends while you're there?

You won't just have more fun — you'll be happier and work better. Gallup research shows that developing close friendships at work boosts employee satisfaction by almost 50%.

And while we don't always choose our friends with career success in mind (company happy hour, ahem), there are some people in the workplace whose friendship can actually make us perform better on the job.

Whether or not you want to spend time with them after work, it would behoove you to develop at least a pleasant rapport with them.

Here's our top five:

1. The IT Manager

When your computer freezes, your emails disappear, or you can't for the life of you remember your password, there's only one person to turn to: the IT manager.

They may or may not be someone you'd actually hang out with outside of work, but make sure they're your buddy on the job.

Between making sure your computer won’t crash just before a big deadline and having the power to see everything you've ever done on the Internet, this is someone whose good side you definitely want to stay on.

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And this means more than just smiling when you ask them for help. Be friendly even when you're not having a Windows crisis! Strike up conversations in the kitchen, find out where they're from, ask them what they're doing over the weekend. Be their friend and when the company orders a new MacBook Pro — and they get to choose who gets it — you'll be at the top of the list.

2. The Veteran

Chances are there's someone at your company who's been there longer than you. She knows the processes inside out. She's connected to all the right people. She was there when the company still offered free snacks, for goodness sake. She's your go-to gal for any question you have that you'd rather not ask your own manager.

But beware — all veterans were not created equal. Some are more willing to help than others, and it'll take some time and research to pinpoint your match. The veteran you want to make friends with is the one who has been most welcoming since you first started, the one who is patient and has always been comfortable answering your questions.

Ideally, she's someone whose company you actually kind of enjoy, and who you have other things in common with. You don't want her to feel like your friendship is a one-way street.

3. The Cross-Department Crony

No matter how much you love your job, there are always things you need to vent about. And while it's helpful to talk to others who share your job function — and therefore your specific grievances — sometimes this kind of relationship can be dangerous territory. You might end up feeding off of one another's negativity or reinforcing their biased opinion. And what happens when one of you gets promoted? Talk about awkward!

A safer shoulder to cry on is one that belongs to someone who works in an entirely different department. They may be able to give you a more objective perspective on your situation than someone who’s deep in it with you. They're far enough removed from the situation and most importantly, your own boss. And finally, they may confess to you their frustrations with their own crazy department, which will make you feel better about yours!

4. The Office Manager/Receptionist

She keeps the stock room ... well ... stocked. She plans company outings and makes reservations for your business trips.

Above all else, she makes sure the whole organization stays afloat. Don't you want to stay afloat with it?

Get on your office manager’s good side and, hopefully, she'll look out for you where she can. The secret is most office managers get a little tired of being ignored. Often, people only talk to her when they need something.

Be a better friend than that! Go to lunch with her. Make her job easier by cleaning up after yourself. Refill the coffee maker when you've taken the last cup (you know you should be doing this anyway, right?).

Get to know your office manager above and beyond what she can do for you, and who knows where you’ll end up.

5. Your Work Best Friend

Need to someone to cover for you when you have to leave the office a little early? Looking for a colleague to bounce crazy ideas off of? Someone you trust to share gossip with (you just can't hold it in anymore!)? Your work best friend's got you covered.

According to Vital Friends author Tom Rath, people who have a “best friend” at the office are seven times more likely to be engaged in their work.

Your best friend is the person who you are absolutely closest to and, unlike the other friends on this list, you will probably spend a significant amount of time with them after work.

This type of closeness can be great for your productivity, your stress level, and your overall happiness — but it can also be dangerous if you have a falling out. Work hard to nurture this friendship but be prepared for the consequences if for some reason it doesn't work out.

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5 Questions to Ask After the Offer

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:56:00 -0800

By Denene Brox, Monster Contributing Writer

All job hunters are waiting for that call -- the one that says they've landed the job. But as eager as you may be to escape either your current job or the unemployment ranks, don't abdicate your power position once the offer comes in. Now it's your turn to sit in the interviewer's seat and ask the company and yourself some tough questions -- the answers to which could mean the difference between career bliss and disaster.

Julie Jansen, author of I Don't Know What I Want, But I Know It's Not This, says every job seeker should get the answers to these five questions to make sure the job is a good fit all around:

1. Will the actual work and job responsibilities provide gratification, fulfillment and challenge?

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This question is often overlooked, because applicants get hung up on job titles, salary and benefits. Try to get a clear sense of what an actual day would be like. What will you spend the majority of your time doing? Is the work in line with your values? Will you likely learn this job quickly and become bored and unchallenged?

Diane Speros, who works in publishing, wishes she'd known how she'd spend her days before she took one early-career job. "All of my time was spent on my boss's personal errands," she says. "This was the 'administrative work.' I never asked how my time would really be split."

2. What are the boss's strengths and weaknesses?

This question can be tough to answer, and it's best saved for after the job offer has been extended. You'll want to get a good idea for your potential boss's management style. Speak to your potential boss as much as possible to get a feel for his personality and what you can live with. Does he micromanage? Will you get consistent feedback and reviews? Does he make small talk, or is every conversation strictly business?

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3. How much change is in the works at your prospective company, and what kind?

Constant change at work can mean constant stress. Find out if there are any big changes coming, such as new processing systems or management, impending retirements or adoption of new procedures that still need to be ironed out. At the same time, remember that some of these transitions will have less effect on your position than others.

4. Which of my skills and experiences will I be able to use, and what will I learn?

Make sure your unique skills and talents will be used and that training and promotion are open in the future. When you decide to move on, you'll want to have a new crop of experiences to sell to your next employer. Your goal is to perform well at work while constantly growing and learning

5. How many people have held the position in the past several years?

Knowing how many people have been in your job and why they left can offer you great insights. You'll want to know if they were promoted or quit altogether. A steady stream of resignations may be a sign you could be reentering the job market soon.

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"Five people held that job in one year before I came along," Speros says of her early-career job. "All the others quit within two weeks, as did my successor, whom I trained. I quit after two months and nearly had a nervous breakdown before I left."

While many of the reasons positions eventually become unfulfilling are unavoidable, such as hitting a plateau after repeatedly performing the same duties, job seekers should consider the ways a new position will advance them.

"It's normal to eventually become dissatisfied in any job for a variety of reasons," Jansen says. "What's important is to face it, understand the root of the dissatisfaction and do something about it."

5 Tips for Writing Powerful Thank-You Notes

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:06:00 -0800

By Wendy S. Enelow, Monster Contributing Writer

Writing powerful thank-you letters is not just a formality. Thank-you letters are marketing tools that can have tremendous value in moving your candidacy forward and positioning you above the competition.

Although much of what you include in your thank-you letter may have already been communicated during your interview, there is nothing more effective than the written word to etch those thoughts into your interviewer's mind.

1. Overcome Objections

If during an interview there were specific objections raised about your candidacy, use your thank-you letter to respond to and overcome those concerns. Demonstrate that the concerns are not an obstacle but an opportunity and you're fully prepared to meet the challenge.

Example:

You're interviewing to be an executive for a well-established company in the Midwest. Although you're extremely well-qualified, the CEO is concerned you've never lived in the area and have no network of local contacts. Eliminate those concerns by explaining your network of professional contacts is nationwide and, in fact, you know John Doe of Local Company X, have a long-standing relationship with an economic development director in the area, etc. These contacts will only serve to expand the company's already-established network.

2. Reiterate Your Expertise

If the company communicated its specific needs, issues or challenges, use your thank-you letter to demonstrate how you can meet those needs.

Example:

You've interviewed to be the CFO of a distressed company in need of immediate action. It needs a candidate with proven success in fast-track turnarounds and revitalizations. Highlight your experience in turning a company around and showing profitability.

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3. Highlight Your Core Professional Competencies and Successes

If the company communicated its ideal qualifications for a candidate, use your thank-you letter to outline how you meet or exceed each qualification.

Example:

You've interviewed for the position of EVP of technology and product development with a high tech venture, and company officials have clearly communicated four essential candidate qualifications. Help them see that you have those four qualifications by providing an overview of your career highlights.

4. How Long Should Your Thank-You Letter Be?

Of course, as with anything else in a job search, there is no definitive answer. One page is the norm, depending on the amount of information you want to communicate. Letters certainly do not have to be only one page.

Remind yourself that you already have the company's interest or you wouldn't have been interviewing, and use your thank-you letter as a tool to communicate valuable information. The entire job search process is marketing and merchandising your product -- you. There is no reason why writing thank-you letters should be any different than any other of your job search activities.

5. Email or Snail Mail?

While there's something particularly heartwarming about a handwritten note, an email sent within 24 hours of your interview may help hammer home that you're organized, motivated and on top of your game -- traits most employers covet. It may take three days to get your snail mail letter to the company mailroom, let alone the intended recipient. By then, an offer may have been extended to someone else.

Twitter Mistakes to Avoid at Work

Hamsa Ramesha | HRGuru — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:31:00 -0800

A lot has been written about the revolutionary impact of Twitter: how it's changed the way we communicate, how it's connected us to one another, how it's increased transparency in everything we do, and how it's even helped us find jobs.

But as much as people love Twitter, there's growing concern about other impacts the social networking tool is having, especially when it comes to workplace productivity.

As with other popular social networks like Facebook, Twitter is a great way to pass the time. It's also a great place to share your troubles with the world and go on a 140-character rant.

The problem is that people tend to touch upon issues that are unprofessional, threaten company privacy agreements, or reflect badly on their own work ethics.

It's one thing to tweet about how you're tired and looking forward to the weekend, and another to mention your passionate hatred for everyone in the office and blatantly announcing exactly how you'll be blowing off work. One is understandable, while the other could get you fired, or at least in very serious trouble.

We'll let you figure out which.

In the meantime, here are some cringe-worthy examples of inappropriate tweets for you to learn from, and maybe laugh at.

1. Lying on the Job

2. Goofing Off at Work

3. Complaining About a Coworker

4. Complaining About Your Boss

5. Complaining About Your Boss & Your Coworker

6. Colorful Language

7. Bored at Work

8. The Work Load

9. Criticizing Your Boss' Job

10. Using Other Social Networks

11. Threatening Violence

Get Started: #1. Lying on the Job

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1. Lying on the Job

We've all told a little white lie to get away with something – from family emergencies to mysterious doctor appointments, it's pretty harmless, and very common. But since you've gotten away with it, why broadcast the lie? If a boss or vengeful coworker comes across this public tweet, they'd be idiots not to confront you about it, and it may be cause for termination – especially if you've done this before. At least check the privacy button if you're going to boast about your lying prowess – and make sure your colleagues and peers aren't following you.

Next: #2. Goofing Off at Work

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Is there a reason you're still working here? While Twitter is great for sharing thoughts, information and random stories, it's not a solution for workplace problems and it definitely doesn't replace good old fashioned communication.
Got an issue with your colleagues? Talk to them about it. Then maybe you could tweet about how everything was resolved and your workplace is AWESOME.

Next: #6. Colorful Language

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6. Colorful Language

We get it, work is stressful. Venting about your problems is good. Do it to a friend, or again, in private. What you don't want to do is come off as crass and extremely unprofessional like this post.

From their tweet, it's clear that this person:

If there's this much negativity going on, ask yourself, why are you even keeping the job? And don't say it's for the paycheck. Deal with the problem, or don't tweet about it to the world.

Next: #7. Bored at Work

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7. Bored at Work

Going to the office and plugging away at a 9 to 5 job in a tiny little cubicle isn't quite the adventure of a lifetime. So what if the tedium of work threatens to numb your brain every now and then; at least you've still got a job and a paycheck right?

This is an opportunity where you can show more initiative. Ask for more responsibility, rather than looking for more distractions. You may even get a promotion!

Next: #8. The Workload

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8. The Workload

Too much work at the office?

Ask. For. Help.

Say it slowly. Be upfront with your boss about how overwhelmed you are feeling with the workload; he'll appreciate the heads up, and you'll appreciate the lighter load. Plus, the work gets done faster – such a win-win.

On the other hand, if you're finding your day-to-day duties a little too much to handle, you may want to look into finding another job.

Next: #9. Criticizing Your Boss' Job

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9. Criticizing Your Boss' Job

Imagine if your boss, or your boss' boss came across this very public tweet. It spells trouble for your boss, and MAJOR trouble for you.

Confronting your boss about issues like these is difficult, but tweeting about it will do more damage to your reputation. It sheds a negative light on you, and on your workplace. Plus, if you do get fired, don't even think about a reference letter.

Next: #10. Using Other Social Networks

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10. Using Other Social Networks

Talk about being efficient at doing nothing at work!

You're on one social network (Twitter), confessing how you're also avoiding work by using another social network (Facebook). If you're workplace hasn't blocked Facebook or Twitter by now, the will after seeing this tweet. There's a privacy setting on Twitter for a reason. Use it.

Or maybe you want to get caught?

Next: #11. Threatening Violence

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11. Threatening Violence

There are SO many things wrong with this tweet. But threatening violence? Seriously? You're pretty much asking to be fired. That's all.

Next: Lesson Learned?

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We're not saying you should practice Twitter abstinence at work, although your employer would appreciate it. Just do so in a professional way and be discreet about what you tweet, especially if you've got a public account. If you must complain, gossip, or vent via Twitter, hit the privacy button and do make sure your coworkers or bosses aren't following you!

Many of these examples of Twitter misuse, as inappropriate as they were, could easily have been resolved if workers communicated face-to-face with their peers. Twitter has changed the way we communicate, but it hasn't replaced human interaction, and never will.

Back to the Beginning

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Job Searching? It's All About Who You Know

Renee Weisman | Excelle — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:46:00 -0800

Last month I heard a radio broadcast proclaiming that there are six people applying for every available job.

This week I saw a television newscast claiming that number was more like 15, with jobs in manufacturing and construction having 21 people on average applying for every job.

I’m not sure where these shows get their statistics but the message is clear — if you want a job, the competition has never been more intense. What can you do to put yourself on the top of those six, 21 or even 100 others applying for the job?

The single most important factor in getting a job or selling your services is getting your talents to the right person. Who you know, who knows you, and who you can contact are crucially important. More than 90% of positions are filled by someone who knew someone who knew someone. Simply sitting at home writing and sending resumes is not going to get you meaningful opportunities or move you above the crowd.

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You must network.

Go to seminars, chamber of commerce meetings, volunteer organizations, networking events, conventions in your field, job fairs, colleges (does your college have a placement service? Even if you have been out of the market a long time, they may help point you in the right direction). Take a class. Teach a class (offering a free seminar in your field or a talk at a convention is clearly a way to get people to know you.) If you are attending a convention, job fair, seminar or class, prepare ahead. Target those events and booths that will enable you to meet people who either know of job opportunities or work for the companies you've targeted. If they have a placement program there, register and get an interview.

Go down every avenue and opportunity as you never know where it will lead. You might get a contact in the line at the supermarket or at the bookstore or in the elevator. Keep your eyes and ears open. Get a business card made up that you can hand out to everyone you know and meet so that if they hear of an opportunity, they don’t have to wonder how to find you.

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Go through your business files, business associates (even retirees), friends, relatives, colleagues (especially those who moved to other companies), acquaintances, high school friends, college friends, professors, and anyone else who might be willing to recommend you. Let them know you are searching for a position and would appreciate any and all leads. You never know who they might know.

Use the internet. Make sure your profiles on LinkedIn and Monster.com are current and unique (you want to stand out don't you?).

Join LinkedIn groups that match your field of expertise or interest and participate in them in a meaningful way. Let them know you're searching for a job and request leads. Do advanced searches on companies and on specific positions to find people you might link to for more connections. Check positions that are related to what you did before as well as related position. If you can get hired by the right company, you can eventually move into another position so you might take something that’s not exactly what you want but has to potential to change. Check professional organization websites for job opportunities in your field.

Use Monster.com and have them send you weekly updates on jobs in your field. Once you have targeted a specific company for a job, do you know anyone working there? Can that person recommend you? Can he/she bring your resume directly to the hiring manager? Find out the names of the people doing the interview or in HR, search them on linked in and see if you are in any way connected to them. Perhaps you can arrange an introduction through a 2nd or 3rd level connection or through a LinkedIn group.

Of course your resume matters, and so does the interviewing process. But the single biggest action you can take to get your name above the others is to have someone recommend you directly to the hiring manager.

Expand your network and stay positive.

It takes time and can be exhausting but the greater your network, the more effective your job search will be.

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5 Friends You Should Have at Work

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:43:00 -0800

You spend most of your day at work. Why not make some friends while you're there?

You won't just have more fun — you'll be happier and work better. Gallup research shows that developing close friendships at work boosts employee satisfaction by almost 50%.

Whether or not you want to spend time with them after work, it would behoove you to develop at least a pleasant rapport with them.

Here's our top five:

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Ideally, she's someone whose company you actually kind of enjoy, and who you have other things in common with. You don't want her to feel like your friendship is a one-way street.

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4. The Office Manager/Receptionist

She keeps the stock room ... well ... stocked. She plans company outings and makes reservations for your business trips.

Above all else, she makes sure the whole organization stays afloat. Don't you want to stay afloat with it?

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5 Best (and Worst!) Things About Moving Back in with Your Parents

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:35:00 -0800

Sweet? Not always...
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You can probably kiss your dating life goodbye. Despite having to report your whereabouts to your parents while trying to seduce someone (embarrassing!), quite honestly living at home is just not sexy. If you’re really unlucky, you might even have meddling parents or siblings who grab your phone and respond to all incoming text messages. I don't know about you, but my overprotective brother and father seem hell-bent on keeping my romantic interests away. Sometimes I feel like I'm back in the Middle Ages—and it's not picturesque.

Turned off by moving back home? It's not ideal but it won't be the worst thing that ever happened to you. And you will move out at some point. So take it for what it's worth and enjoy the perks. Pretty soon, you'll be out in the world on your own again, longing for the restful, rent-free days of yore.

Franchising: Make Money and Grow Your Career

Jessica Cosgriff | Excelle — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:04:00 -0800

I knew since I was about five-years-old — when I wanted to play “office” instead of “house” with my sister — that I loved the idea of running my own business. Like many other women, I pursued my education, started a family and found myself quickly approaching the ceiling in the organization I was working in.

It was in my burnout phase that I started researching alternative work opportunities. The company I was most interested in working for didn’t have an office in my area. I spent several months humming,hawing ,and praying they would open an office until it hit me: why don’t I open my own franchise?

Why Franchising Might Be for You

Franchising allows you to build your own business without reinventing the wheel. Chances are, someone else has come up with the great business idea you have. Do some research and you may find that they’ve perfected a profitable system and developed a recognizable brand that you can tap into. When you buy into a franchise network, the legwork of creating databases, websites, brand elements, and legal foundations for businesses are all done for you.

Usually, you just pay your franchise fee and additional start-up costs, agree to the terms and conditions of the franchise agreement and you’re counting down to your first customer. In addition to the “busy work” being done, you gain the added benefit of a valuable support system.

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You Make Money, They Make Money

Face it: you make money, they make money. In most cases, a franchise or royalty fee is paid to the corporate offices based on your gross revenues. It’s important to know what that number is so you can gauge if the support they give you is equal to the amount they are taking. Part of the fee is your use of their brand, processing systems they may have in place for you, etc.

For example, I purchased a franchise of 10 til 2, a part-time placement service. My franchise fees include development of marketing pieces, public relations assistance, and - most importantly – management of payroll for all of my employees. I consider their franchise fees a bargain given all the resources that I benefit from. Franchise networks are incentivized to make you successful so they earn their portion of your gross revenues.

What Franchise Should I Consider?

There are lots of resources online to help with your initial franchise research. Websites like www.franchisegator.com display hundreds of available franchises along with valuable information such as how much money you need to get started. You could also consider hiring a franchise coach. I know -- it seems like there is a coach for just about everything. Just when you thought no one else could help you figure out what you want to do – voila! A franchise coach appears.

There are several franchise coaching companies; one of the more notable ones is The Entrepreneur’s Source. They act much like a realtor in that they help you find the franchise that best fits you. The company that is franchising the business to you pays the franchise coach a broker fee. One great thing about this concept is that they really delve into your interests and financial situation to help you make the best decision. Some even administer personality tests to help you get closer to a franchise that might work for you.

So What Now?

Franchising breaks down some of the barriers to the dream of business ownership. If you’re ready to build something — maybe not from the ground up, but definitely from the foundation up – this might be the option for you. Make sure you involve your friends and family in your business ideas, because their feedback as a target market will inform your next steps.

Also, consider creative investing opportunities, such as tapping people in your network who might like the idea of franchising as well. Your local Small Business Administration office is also a treasure trove of resources as you take your next steps. Women-owned businesses have unique opportunities for getting started and getting business – make sure you use all of them to your advantage!

10 Ways to Make Your Interviewer Love You

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:07:00 -0700

By Not Just The Kitchen for Divine Caroline

The dreaded job interview. No matter your resume and talents if you mess this up you won’t get that job. In today’s tough economy you need every possible edge. It can be a simple equation: You want to be liked—not hated.

Here are ten simple things to do that will dramatically increase your chances: from wearing the right expression, to knowing what not to say, to never ever breaking a sweat.

1. Don’t be a Smiley Face

Excessive smiling in a job interview is seen for what it is—nervousness and a lack of confidence. A smiley face exudes phoniness, which will quickly be picked up by the interviewer. Instead be thoughtful and pleasant. Smile when there’s something to smile about. Do a practice run in front of a mirror or friend.

2. Don’t be a Know-It-None

Your job is to be knowledgeable about the company for which you’re interviewing. Random facts about last night’s episode of Dancing With the Stars episode or your favorite blog will not get you the job. Never feel you have to fill an interview with small talk. Find ways to talk about serious subjects related to the industry or company. Pockets of silence are better than padding an interview with random babble.

3. Don’t Sweat

You can lose a job by wearing an undershirt or simply a little too much clothing. Sweaty palms or beads on your forehead will not impress. You are not applying to be a personal trainer. Sweat will be seen as a sign of weakness and nervousness. Do a practice run with your job interview outfit in front of friends. The job interview is one place you definitely don’t want to be hot.

4. Put Down that Stop Sign

Interviewers are seeking candidates eager to take on challenging projects and jobs. Hesitance and a nay saying mentality will be as visible as a red tie—and seen as a negative. Practice saying “yes” to questions about your interest in tasks and work that might normally give you pause.

5. Don’t be a Sheeple

Asking the location of the lunchroom or meeting room will clue the interviewer into your lack of preparation and initiative. Prepare. Don’t ask questions about routine elements or functions of a company: where stuff is, the size of your cube, and company policy on coffee breaks.

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6. Don’t be a Liar Liar

Studies show that employees lie frequently in the workplace. Lying won’t get you one. In a job interview even a slight exaggeration is lying. Don’t. Never stretch your resume or embellish accomplishments. There’s a difference between speaking with a measured confidence and engaging in BS. One lie can ruin your entire interview, and the skilled interviewer will spot the lie and show you the door.

7. Don’t Be a Bad Comedian

Humor tends to be very subjective and while it may be tempting to lead your interview with a joke you’ve got to be careful about your material. You probably will know nothing about the sensibilities of your interviewer, let alone what makes them laugh. On the other hand, nothing disarms the tension of a job interview like a little laughter, so you can probably score at least a courtesy chuckle mentioning that it’s “perfect weather for a job interview!”

8. Don’t Be High Maintenance

If you start talking about the ideal office temperature, the perfect chair for your tricky back, and how the water cooler needs to be filled with imported mineral water, chances are you’ll be shown a polite smile and the door, regardless of your qualifications. Nobody hiring today is going to be looking for someone who’s going to be finicky about their workspace.

9. Don’t Be a Minute Man

At every job interview, the prospective hire is given the chance to ask questions. Make yours intelligent, to the point and watch the person across the desk for visual cues whether you’ve asked enough. Ask too many questions about off-target matters and you’ll be thought of as a Minute Man, destined to waste the company’s resources with insignificant and time-wasting matters.

10. Don’t Be a Switchblade

Normally the Switchblade is thought of a backstabber, often taking credit for someone else’s work. In an interview setting, the Switchblade can’t help but “trash talk” his former employer. If you make it seem like your former workplace was hell on Earth, the person interviewing you might be tempted to call them to find out who was the real devil.

Related Reads
Get Your Resume to the Top of the Pile

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How to Get Your Resume to the Top of the Pile

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:29:00 -0700

As a hiring manager in a Fortune 100 company, I read through thousands of resumes and cover letters in my career. Since HR and recruiters would pre-review the resumes for grade point average, degree and other minimum requirements, every resume I saw was from a top performer or a top student so everyone was “qualified”. However, some of these resumes went straight to the top of my pile and some went to the bottom. Why? Here are seven tips for becoming the candidate a company wants to call in.

The first thing that moved a resume up was a positive statement from a recruiter. If the individual had been interviewed at a job fair and the company recruiter was impressed, he/she would write a little note to that effect. So never underestimate the value of a pre-interview at a job fair,

The second thing that moved the resume up was a recommendation from someone I knew or someone who knew someone I knew. A positive recommendation from someone whose opinion I valued and who already knew the candidate had the skill and talent we were seeking, quickly moved that resume to the top. Network, not just to hear about jobs but to get a favorable recommendation.

If I didn’t have any recommendations, I would skim each remaining resume in 15-30 seconds. (With 30-50 resumes on my desk, that’s as much time as I could devote.) If they were multi-page, I read page one to decide if it was worth going further. So if I wasn’t caught by page one, the resume went to the bottom. Put the most important information on the front page.

Obviously spelling or grammar mistakes or a poorly written resume went to the bottom of the pack, but 99% of the resumes I would review were grammatically correct and neatly printed. A well written resume is an expectation, not an advantage.

In addition to deciding whether the person’s skills were a fit in our organization, I would look at his/her other activities to get a view of how well rounded the individual was. For example, I had an engineering candidate with excellent credentials who was also the president of the debating club. This told me the candidate was not only technically capable but could communicate effectively as well. Leadership positions in nonprofit, volunteer or other organizations (not publicity chair but president or an obvious leadership position) also caught my interest.

I looked for specifics in a resume. A line that you cut costs at your prior position or expanded revenue was expected. More importantly, by how much and what size budget did you have? Include the specifics and drop the jargon.

Finally, as I read the resume, I would try to imagine this person in our organization. The more you can connect your resume to the requirements of the job and the skills the hiring manager is seeking, the better.

When You Feel Like Complaining, Do This Instead

Kelly Rudolph | Excelle — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 20:00:00 -0700

It seems that you can't throw a rock without hitting a handful of complainers, but there is an excellent alternative to keep you out of the complaining rut to become or remain a positive woman.

Pay attention to what others are saying around you and to how much of it is negative vs. positive. You may be amazed at the negativity you absorb on a daily basis just by being at work, at school, in public and even at home!

We know a positive attitude makes everything in life better and more successful, right? And the only people who argue with that are the negative ones whose sole purpose it is to get attention by complaining and bring other people down because they refuse to try "positive" on for size and take responsibility for their own life.

If that sounded callous, really think about it and realize that we've all been in that mindset before and although it is a rut, it is escapable with effort and intent. The challenge: most people find it easier to complain about their situation and blame other people for putting them in it.

1. Whether our negative situations were reached or helped along by others, complaining just makes things worse and positive women know this.

2. When you blame others you give them power. If you blame them for where or what you are, you give them power over you.

3. Complaining is negative and negative has detrimental affects the body, mind and spirit. You cannot be healthy mentally and emotionally for your relationships when you are negative. You can't stay healthy physically when you are negative and if you look healthy on the outside while being negative, be careful of what you can't see that's going on inside.

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When you feel like complaining, as all women do at one time or another, practice gratitude; it will change your world!

1. If you are unhappy with a coworker, say, "I am so grateful to have a job," because many women would love to have your job.

2. If you are frustrated with your child, say, "I am so blessed to have a healthy child," because many women are nurturing an ill child.

3. If you are stuck in traffic and late for an appointment, say, "I am so grateful to have a vehicle (or cab fare) and someone who has scheduled time with me," because many women don't.

Notice how much better you feel counting your blessings when angry or frustrated instead of falling into the trap of complaining. Next time you feel negative, it will be even easier to quickly transform those feelings into positive energy that makes you stronger and healthier. You will find that gratitude is an important key to becoming and remaining a positive woman.

To be more positive, empowered, successful, and have greater peace of mind, I invite you to visit PositiveWomenRock where you will receive audio and pdf versions of "Why Positive Women Excel at Everything They Do" and invitations to TeleWomenars - empowering conversations for women.

More Articles on Positive Thinking

How Woman Enjoyed Unemployment

The Secrets Behind the Ten Happiest Jobs

5 Ways to Stay Motivated in Your Job Search

Have "On the Job" Halloween Costumes Become Too Sexy?

Darren Garnick, Boston Herald — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:39:00 -0700

Does your job uniform include fishnet stockings? For this month anyway, they've become a required part of the dress code for a wide spectrum of professions: police officers, firefighters, airline pilots, construction workers, nurses and even plumbers.

A quick glance at the latest Halloween garb reveals that almost every imaginable profession is being fetishized. It's like an erotic game of Mad Libs. You can't just show up to a costume party as a cop. You have to be a sexy cop. You can't be nurse. You have to be a naughty nurse. Want to be an insurance claims adjuster? Sorry, you gotta be an exotic insurance claims adjuster.

Granted, we're talking mostly about women's Halloween costumes and the widespread appeal of flashing cleavage is hardly breaking news - especially in a forum where there is an "excuse" to do so.

What's new is the incredibly shrinking shelf space for non-sexy costumes. Go check out your local Halloween superstore that's temporarily set up shop in a vacant "strip" mall space. Those who dabble in pseudo-psychology might argue that our collective workplace fantasies are dangling in the aisles.

If people weren't buying these outfits year after year, the career choices wouldn't be expanding.

BuyCostumes.com promises an "evening that will make your heart soar" with the "Mile High Captain," a tight pilot's dress with matching hat and a "Mile High Club" badge. A similarly themed costume is the no-further-explanation-necessary "Captain Layover." On the seas, there's the "Captivating Captain," a "naval hottie who can command any body . . . of water."

Clever stuff.

Next: Oliver Clothesoff and Border Babes →

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Perhaps the two most fetishized career fields are health care and law enforcement. Halloween merely amplifies the kind of racy comments directed at virtually any nurse under the age of 70. But it underscores public perceptions of doctors, too. Thus, the widespread availability of surplus white lab coats with "Gynecologist" or "Breast Inspector" embroidered on the pockets.

Outside of college, who gets away with wearing this stuff? Would anyone dare show up to the office Halloween party in these get-ups?

On the crimefighter front, there are at least a half-dozen variations of the sexy cop - handcuff earrings and doughnut purse optional. Female police officers have had a long lineage of role models dating back to Heather Locklear's stellar performance on "T.J. Hooker." But all that has just been neutralized by this:

"Book 'em gorgeous! The Busted costume includes: A stretch-knit dress with a two-way zipper front and a `Busted' knit bra top. A police hat, a removable `Officer Ivana B. Bad' name badge, a belt, a toy gun, an officer's badge, a pair of handy handcuffs, fingerless gloves and a baton are also included in this sexy style. Who knows how many laws are broken when you patrol in this arresting ensemble!"

There's also a "Border Babe" who cracks down on illegal immigration, a "Corrupt Cop" with a proclivity for vinyl-boned waist corsets and bribes, and Detective "Terri Gation," in charge of making stubborn suspects talk.

Feminists should take note that the cheesy male version of the sexy cop, "Oliver Clothesoff," does not appear to take bribes. And he at least starts out with long sleeves and long pants.

Will Halloween's stripper-friendly culture ever impact how we dress in the workplace? For the vast majority of us, probably not. But it might clue you in about what your co-workers do after work.

The Working Stiff column runs every Wednesday. Check out the Stiff blog at www.bostonherald.com/blogs/workingStiff/

Originally published by By Darren Garnick.

(c) 2009 Boston Herald. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All rights Reserved.

© YellowBrix 2009
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15 Companies Hiring Now

Excelle — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:18:00 -0700

Times are tough.

And these days, it seems like everyone is looking for a job. But don't be discouraged by all the depressing news.

Work smarter not harder. How? You just need to know where to look.

Luckily, Excelle's done the research for you. We've identified fifteen companies that are hiring near you -- even now! Read the descriptions then click on the links at the bottom to apply!

FIRST COMPANY

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Brown-Forman Corporation

Jack Daniel’s, Southern Comfort, Finlandia, Sonoma-Cutrer, Korbel and 31 other alcohol brands

Brown-Forman employs 4,440 people worldwide with about 1,300 located in Louisville. Brown-Forman, one of the largest American-owned spirits and wine companies and among the top 10 largest global spirits companies, sells its brands in more than 135 countries and has offices in cities across the globe. In all, Brown-Forman has more than 35 brands in its portfolio of wines and spirits.

Industry: Wine and Spirits

Corporate Offices: Louisville, Kentucky

Other Major Office Branches: North American branches include Versailles, KY; Braintree, MA; Dallas, TX; Lebanon, TN; Lynchburg, TN; Nashville, TN; Atlanta, GA; Hopland, CA; Newport Beach, CA; San Rafael, CA and Windsor, CA

How They've Handled the Recession: There hasn't been much of a hit to Brown-Forman and its brands. Last quarter sales jumped 4.6%, posted higher earnings, and raised its fiscal year earnings. In a Reuters report, chief executive Paul Varga said “Thus far we are doing fine. These results also reinforce our belief that premium wines and spirits are an affordable luxury in both good times and bad.”

Working at Brown-Forman: At Brown-Forman, we focus on developing the people who build our brands. We begin by recruiting and hiring people of the highest quality and character and then help these talented people grow through formalized professional development programs, such as our award-winning Brand Building University. Less formal training, such as peer-to-peer coaching and our mentoring program, reinforces our guiding philosophy to constantly encourage and enable our employees to grow, learn, and realize their full potential.

Career Opportunities at Brown-Forman

NEXT COMPANY

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Kraft

Cool Whip, DiGiorno, Jell-O, Kool-Aid, Oscar Mayer, Maxwell House, Nabisco, Planters, Ritz, and over a hundred more

Kraft has approximately 103,000 employees worldwide and more than 180 manufacturing and processing
facilities worldwide.

Industry: Food and Beverage

Corporate Offices: Global Corporate Headquarters in Northfield, Illinois

Other Major Office Branches: Glenview, Illinois; East Hanover, New Jersey; Madison, Wisconsin; Tarrytown, New York

How They've Handled the Recession: Kraft products are present in more than 99% of U.S. households, and even in a recession, that type of figure isn't likely to change. More now than ever, people are turning to convenient and affordable groceries, over the previously fashionable organic and high-cost foods. The Business Mirror reports, "Sales of Kraft’s boxed mac-and-cheese rose to $193.1 million in the first quarter, 10 percent over the previous year, according to Information Resources Inc., a Chicago-based market-data company." Economist also cite Kraft's cutting of food costs, rather than increasing prices like their competitors, as driving more sales for the company.

Working at Kraft: Each location offers extensive convenience services, including fitness facilities, banking centers, on-site dining, on-site dry cleaning, some office locations even have car oil changing services. Also, all sites observe an "appropriate attire" policy, enabling employees to choose to wear traditional business attire or less formal alternatives.

Career Opportunities at Kraft

NEXT COMPANY

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Philip-Morris

Marlboro, Virginia Slims, Merit, Parliament, and 14 other cigarette brands

PM USA has five regional sales offices, 22 sectional sales offices and a field sales force of approximately 2,700 employees located throughout the U.S. and in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

Industry: Tobacco Products

Corporate Offices: Richmond, Virginia

Other Major Office Branches: Cabarrus County, North Carolina and 22 Sales offices across the country including Dallas, TX; Houston, TX; Seattle, Washington; Bedminster, NJ; Mandeville, Louisiana; Berwyn, PA; Tampa, FL; Milford, OH; Wixom, MI; Indianapolis, IN; Chicago, IL; Overland Park, KS; Denver, CO; Pleasanton, CA; Los Angeles, CA

How They've Handled the Recession: Hermann Waldemer, chief financial officer at Philip Morris International, calls the tobacco industry "very recession-resilient." People are willing to sacrifice a lot of luxuries during tough times, but most have a hard time cutting back on this vice. Shares of Philip Morris have fallen nearly 30% from the year’s highs, but continue to outperform the S&P 500. On December 8th, the The Montley Fool, put PMI on the top of the list "5-Star Stocks Poised to Pop." Plus, the foreign demand for cigarettes remains strong, keeping the bottom line afloat.

Working at Philip-Morris: For three years in a row, BusinessWeek put PM USA in its list of the 50 best places to launch a career. PM USA jumped 11 spots to No. 32 in the 2008 rankings. Richmond Magazine named PM USA to its annual "Great Places to Work" list in November 2007. The magazine featured various company benefits and amenities, while highlighting "an average tenure of 17 years for salaried and hourly employees and a one-year retention rate of 97 percent in 2006."

Find Career Opportunities at Philip-Morris:

CantBeatTheExperience.com

PMI Career Opportunities Search Page

NEXT COMPANY

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Abbott Labs

15 popular prescriptions, 15 popular medical products, 9 nutritional products including Ensure, Pedialyte and ZonePerfect

Abbot Labs is a 120+ year-old company. They employee 68,000 people worldwide and have more than 100 facilities worldwide. Their products are sold in more than 130 countries.

Industry: Pharmaceutical Health Care

Corporate Offices: North suburban Chicago, Illinois

Other Major Office Branches: Parsippany, New Jersey; Worcester, Massachusetts; Ludwigshafen, Germany

How They've Handled the Recession: Medical care is an essential area for people to spend money in, regardless of a downturn in the economy. People will still get their prescriptions, hospitals will still need equipment, sick kids will still need Pedialyte. "Our products are the kind that people rely on and need, regardless of economic conditions," CEO Miles White says. Furthermore, Abbot Labs' products are sold internationally. USA Today reports, "Abbott's third-quarter sales this year soared 18% to $7.5 billion, boosted by autoimmune disorder drug Humira and drug-coated metal stents for heart-related surgery. About half of Abbott's third-quarter sales were international."

Working at Abbot Labs:

Abbott has been named to DiversityInc magazine's annual "Top 50 Companies for Diversity" list for the fifth consecutive year.

Named one of America's Most Admired Companies every year since 1984 by Fortune magazine

Ranked 96 on "The Fortune 500" list of the largest U.S. based corporations (based on 2007 earnings)

Ranked 167 on the Forbes 2000 list (based on 2007 figures)

Ranked No. 23 in 2007 ranking of world's 100 most respected companies by Barron's

Dow Jones Sustainability Index: Listed among world leaders in economic, environmental and social performance four straight years (2005-2008)

Career Opportunities at Abbott Labs

NEXT COMPANY

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Home Away

HomeAway.com, VRBO.com, VacationRentals.com, CyberRentals.com, A1Vacations.com, GreatRentals.com, Holiday-Rentals.co.uk, OwnersDirect.co.uk, FeWo-direkt.de and Abritel.fr.

The HomeAway website has more than 122,000 vacation rental homes, condos, guesthouses, cottages, and cabins in 118 countries. Travelers can search vacation rental listings for free and find accommodations by the night, week or month. For calendar availability and reservations, HomeAway.com directly connects travelers with private homeowners and property managers who know their vacation homes best. Property owners who rent their vacation homes can gain valuable marketing exposure by listing their property on the website for an annual fee. HomeAway is No. 1 in the online vacation-rental sector — a $48 billion market in the USA and Europe, according to research firms PhoCusWright and Illuminas.

Industry: Travel and Hospitality

Corporate Offices: Austin, TX

Other Major Office Branches: New York, NY; London and Ashtead, Surrey in England; Kassel, Germany; Marseilles, France.

How They've Handled the Recession: HomeAway.com's service is attractive for both home renters and property owners and managers, especially in a credit-crunch and mortgage crisis. Property owners and managers that would sell their vacation homes under normal economic circumstances now are stuck with their space. Utilizing a site like HomeAway.com, they can now rent or lease their travel homes to interested travelers for cheaper than the cost of a hotel. This business model has proved profitable with sales up 58% over 2007. Keeping their sights ambitious, HomeAway is aiming for annual revenue of $500 million within five years.

Working at HomeAway: The company cites one of its strongest selling points to potential employees as its awesome location in Austin, TX. Austin was ranked in CNN Money's Top 100 Places to Live."

Career Opportunities at HomeAway

NEXT COMPANY

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Costco Wholesale

Costco Warehouses: 400 locations in 40 U.S. States

Costco Wholesale is a multi-billion dollar global retailer with 526 warehouse club operations in eight countries. Membership sales jobs and marketing jobs abound. They employ 104,000 full and part-time workers in the U.S.

Industry: Supplies and Goods Warehouse

Corporate Offices: Issaquah, Washington.

Other Major Office Branches: Regional offices located in each warehouse in 40 States

How They've Handled the Recession: At the end of their fiscal year on August 30, 2008, they made $72.5 billion in revenue. By selling things in bulk at discounted prices, Costco is the go-to store for small to medium size business and individuals that have lots of mouths to feed and clean after. But the bargains come at a price: businesses and people become members to shop at Costco and must pay $50 - $100 a piece. And although stock prices dropped steadily through September and October, the company is on the rise again in November and December. With office supply chains like Office Depot and technology stores like Circuit City closing shop, Costco will remain (with Wal-Mart) a discount-retail leader.

Working at Costco: Costco's career site asserts "Today, we have accountants, lawyers, buyers, and human resources personnel who began their careers as stockers or cashiers in our locations. We believe that Costco's future officers are currently working in our warehouses, depots, and business centers, as well as in our Home and Regional Offices." Costco was named by Washington CEO Magazine as one of the top three companies to work for in the state of Washington. According to an MSN Money report "(Employees) are paid well and enjoy generous health-care benefits."

To find a job at Costco, look for warehouse in your area. Each one has a regional office and "Most of them are located near or inside a Costco warehouse for additional convenience" according to the Costco Employment website.

Career Opportunities at CostCo:

Costco Career Homepage

Home and Regional Office Jobs

NEXT COMPANY

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Wal-Mart

Wal-Mart stores, Wal-Mart.com, Sam's Club, Sam'sClub.com

Wal-Mart employs more than 2 million associates worldwide, including more than 1.4 million in the United States. Wal-Mart is not only one of the largest private employers in the U.S., but the largest in Mexico and one of the largest in Canada as well.

Industry: Retail

Corporate Offices: Bentonville, Arkansas

Other Major Office Branches: More than 4,100 facilities in the United States. Walmart.com's office are located in Brisbane, CA

How They've Handled the Recession: Wal-Mart is a company meant to thrive during a time when people's wallets are thin. Plus, their brand is well recognized as a store that offers low prices and deep discounts. This brand-recognition brings cash-strapped people flocking to buy from stores all over the country. Additionally, Wal-Mart sites conservative financial and operational practices, such as tight inventory control as contributing to their current success. According to USA Today, "During an analysts' meeting in October, CEO Lee Scott said that Wal-Mart is doing "extraordinarily well," and that founder Sam Walton built the company to thrive during downturns...At the analysts' meeting, even cautious Wal-Mart executives couldn't resist a little crowing. "How many companies," said Chief Financial Officer Tom Schoewe, "could stand before you today and say that their balance sheet is stronger today than it was a year ago?"

Working at Wal-mart: The average, full-time hourly wage for Wal-Mart associates is $10.83 and is even higher in urban areas. The average full-time hourly wage is $11.62 in Atlanta, $12.57 in Boston, $11.52 in Chicago, $11.26 in Dallas, $11.49 in San Francisco and $11.48 in New York City. (All metro figures based on MSA). Additionally, associates receive performance-based bonuses.

Career Opportunities at Wal-Mart

NEXT COMPANY

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McDonald's

McDonald's franchise restaurants, Ronald McDonald House Charity

Is the leading global food service retailer. McDonald's employs 1.6 million people in more than 30000 restaurants worldwide; it serves 52 million people in more than 100 countries each day.

Industry: Chain Restaurant

Corporate Offices: Oak Brook, Illinois

Other Major Office Branches: Bethesda, Maryland

How They've Handled the Recession: When times are tough, it is hard to resist the prices of a Dollar Menu. CEO Jim Skinner says the hamburger giant is "recession-resistant." Additionally, with their expansive reach across the globe, McDonald's is still as popular as ever with global sales up 7.7% increase in Europe and up 4.5% in the U.S. in November. Because of the international boost, third quarter earnings rose 6% from last year's. There's even a term called the "Big Mac Index" coined by The Economist magazine: "the comparison of a Big Mac's cost in various world currencies can be used to informally judge these currencies' purchasing power parity."

Working at McDonald's: McDonald's trains its franchisees and others at Hamburger University in Oak Brook, Illinois.

McDonald's Named One of 100 Best Companies for Working Moms

2001, LATINA Style Magazine recognizes McDonald's Corporation As One Of The Top 50 Best Companies for Hispanic Women to Work for in the USA.

1998, Fortune Magazine Global Most Admired Companies, "McDonald's Corporation was named the most admired company in the food services category".

ComputerWorld Magazine 1997 recognized McDonald's Corporation As One Of The Top 100 Places To Work In Information Systems.

ComputerWorld Magazine 1997 recognized McDonald's Corporation As One Of The Top's In Training.

Career Opportunities at McDonald's Corporate

APPAREL AND COSMETIC COMPANIES

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Avon Products

Industry: Cosmetics

Avon Products generated $9.8 billion in revenues in fiscal year 2007, with a gross profit margin of 60%. The stocks have been on the rise in December after a deep lull in November.

Career Opportunities at Avon

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lululemon and Urban Outfitters

These two wardrobe powerhouses are far outperforming their competitors, even in tough times.

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Career Opportunities at lululemon

Career Opportunities at Urban Outfitters

PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANIES

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Other companies with decent earnings this quarter that continue to hire include:

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Procter and Gamble

Industry: Consumer Goods (products include Pampers, Tide, Ariel, Always, Pantene, Bounty, Pringles, Charmin, Downy, Iams, Crest, Actonel and Olay.)

"In October, Procter & Gamble said it earned a nearly 9-percent higher fiscal first-quarter profit because of growth in emerging markets and higher prices" in a report by Forbes.

Career Opportunities at P&G

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Johnson and Johnson

Industry: Health Care Products and Pharmaceuticals

Like Abbot Labs, health care and pharmaceutical companies will continue to perform well in a recession. Furthermore, their recognizable name brand goes far with babies' hygiene products.

Career Opportunities at Johnson & Johnson

MORE COMPANIES

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Novartis

Industry: Health Care Products and Pharmaceuticals

The range of medical products - including vaccines, over-the-counter medication, and animal health tools - will keep productions from this company in high demand.

Career Opportunities at Novartis

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Silicon Valley Bank

Industry: Banking

One of the few banks that's weathered "the storm better than most," CEO Kenneth Wilcox said to USAToday. How? By using a different business model that requires any loans to have either a) backup from the company's assets or b) be a long-term, 5-10 year technology or life science project, which are not as effected by a struggling economy. The USAToday report states "Silicon Valley Bank's total loans hit a record $4 billion last year, and third-quarter deposits grew 18% to $4.8 billion from the same quarter last year."

Career Opportunities at SVB

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Hartford Financial Services

Industry: Insurance

According to BusinessWeek, Hartford Financial Services "actually raised profit expectations, saying it expects to earn between $4.70 and $4.90 per share, up from a range of $4.30 to $4.50 previously. (HFS) has... More than $12 billion in cash and other liquid investments means “the Hartford is well-capitalized and has ample liquidity,” chairman and chief executive Ramani Ayer said in a statement."

Career Opportunities at Hartford Financial Services

How One Woman Survived Unemployment: She Enjoyed It

McClatchy-Tribune News Service — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:42:00 -0700

During her eight-month jobless stint, Amy Tinsley of Houston may well have been the happiest unemployed woman in America.

Tinsley, a former marketing director for a local law firm, was laid off in December. It was the first time since age 16 that she'd been without a job. Unlike most of America's unemployed, however, Tinsley wasn't fretting about her down time. In fact, she welcomed it.

With a healthy severance package, she paid off her car note and used her savings to pay her other bills — a full year in advance.

"Knowing that I wouldn't have an income, I just decided in my head that I would give myself one full year to find a job. So I paid all my bills up for a year. I just took whatever I paid in light bills, cell phone bills, my cable bill and just multiplied it by 12 and sent a check into each one of these places so I would be paid up," Tinsley said. "At least I wouldn't have to be stressed out about paying for my bills."

With a year's worth of bills out of the way, Tinsley used her unemployment insurance to pay her mortgage. And for the next eight months, Tinsley, 38 and single, relaxed and enjoyed herself while she looked for a job.

"Getting laid off was really a blessing," she said. "I've had eight months of 'me' time. Eight months to really think about what kind of things I'm interested in and, if I decide to go into a new career, what that would be."

Tinsley's friends call her hiatus, a "no-job vacation."

"Because that's what it is," Tinsley said. "I've visited friends I haven't seen in years. I've read books that I've been wanting to get to. I exercise. I took salsa and belly-dancing classes. I went to Paris. I went to Egypt. And I go to bed at night knowing that I can actually sleep in in the morning, knowing there's not anywhere that I need to be. It's been fantastic."

In addition to planning a golf tournament for a local nonprofit agency, Tinsley managed to put out more than 100 resumes during her "job search."

After two months of interviews, a couple weeks ago she took a business development position with a New England computer software firm that specializes in e-mail marketing products.

Tinsley is ecstatic.

"This is a company I really wanted to work for, and it feels good that I'm getting the job I want. It's not just a job I'm taking just to pay my bills," she said.

And, she'll be working from home.

(c) 2009, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
A service of YellowBrix, Inc.

_© 2009, YellowBrix, Inc._

10 Ways to Communicate More Effectively

Stephanie Shkolnik — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:33:00 -0700

Effective communication is key in order to build a strong relationship with anyone. You have to be prepared at all times to engage in a conversation with the people around you, and maintain a calm, professional state.

You can only leave a first impression once, so it’s crucial to present yourself in the best way possible so you are never forgotten. Use these ten tips to communicate effectively and benefit your career.

When attending a business function or dinner:

1. Surround yourself with people you do not already know. While this may be difficult for those that are shy, putting this weakness behind will enable you to make new contacts in a short period of time, and potentially give you a business lead.

2. Individually introduce yourself to everyone in the group, shaking each person’s hand and giving them the attention you would want to receive.

3. Always introduce yourself by stating you first and last name slowly and clearly, along with your company title. Make sure that the person you are speaking to heard your name, and if necessary, nonchalantly repeat your full name.

4. Shake their hand firmly while making eye contact. A firm handshake is never forgotten, and making eye contact shows you are serious.

5. Repeat the person’s name that you just met. For example: “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Robert.” This will make the recipient feel special, and immediately remember who acknowledged them. Repeating their name will also help you memorize it.

6. Learn about the other person to create a trusted relationship, by letting them speak. Find out what they do and where they are from. Ask them about their past, and what brought them to the career path they are in today. Listen carefully, show them you care, and do not interrupt them!

7. Don’t talk too much about yourself and your business. You can briefly mention what you do, but unless you are asked more by the other party, don’t begin rambling about your great new business or endeavor. It may be exciting, but no one likes shameless promotion!

8. Always carry business cards. You never know who you will run into and when, whether you are eating cheese and crackers, in the middle of a conversation, or in the restroom.

9. Read at least one news article a day. If there is a moment of silence, you can break the awkward pause by bringing up an interesting story you read. This can be about an interesting local story, a TV show, a book, a movie, and more.
Note: Steer clear of political news. This is not a good conversation piece, as this can lead to a loud and unpleasant outcome.

10. When introducing a friend or a colleague, be sure to mention their first and last name, along with a piece of information that the recipient may find interesting, such as where they work, or something they have accomplished that is out of the ordinary. This will make everyone feel comfortable and lead into a good conversation topic.

Dining Etiquette: Don't Network With Your Mouth Full

By Adam C. Mayer | Monster Contributing Writer — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:13:00 -0700

No matter where a meeting takes place, it is still a meeting. If a potential client decides to interview you over a meal at a restaurant, your table manners must be up to par. The following etiquette guidelines will help get you through your next dinner interview.

Long before you enter the restaurant, make sure you turn off your cell phone or beeper. The salesperson who receives a call during the meal doesn't receive a call after the meal.

Before the meal arrives, be sure to actively listen to the interviewer. Paraphrase the content of what an interviewer is saying. Be sure to stay away from sensitive subjects such as religion and politics. Look for and seize any opportunity to sell yourself.

During the Meal

Eighty percent of communication is expressed through body language. Although you may be nervous, do your best to relax. Maintain an assured posture throughout the meal and, yes, elbows off the table.

Chances are good that more than one person will meet with you. If this is the case, wait until everyone is comfortably seated at the table, and then place your napkin in your lap. If your napkin happens to fall to the floor, ask the server for a new one.

Browse the menu for harmless foods such as moderately priced chicken or fish. Stay away from messy foods such as spaghetti, expensive items and anything that sounds colossal. When ordering, be courteous to the wait staff. Throughout the meal, be sure to say "please" and "thank you." Your polite attitude will foster an overall positive impression.

After the Meal

Indicate that you are finished with your meal by placing the knife and fork, on your plate, at 4 o'clock. Be sure to place the napkin on the right-hand side of your table setting.

Make sure to tip properly for your service.

Be sure to thank them and obtain business cards if you are meeting anyone for the first time. Follow up the next day with a thank-you correspondence with your dinner guest. Send one as soon as possible.

Dining 101

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Dining 101

Knowing the basics of table setup is essential and your key to comfort. You are free to drink from glasses on your right. Your bread plate is on the left. The old silverware maxim holds true: Start on the outside and work your way in.

When eating a roll or bread, make sure to break it into bite-size pieces. If your beverage is served in a stemmed glass, pick it up by the stem.

Once everyone's meal is served, begin eating slowly and with care. Hold your silverware with consideration. Placing a used utensil on the table is considered unsanitary and poor manners. Situate soiled utensils on the side of your plate. Keep the elbows close to your body while cutting food.

Only reach for items that are in front of you. Politely ask others to pass items out of reasonable reach. When passing items, be sure to offer to your left. Keep in mind, however, if a passing pattern has already developed, go with the flow.

Eat your entire meal if possible. It may seem disrespectful if you leave a large amount of food behind, and this isn't the time to request a doggy bag.

More Tips

Bring all foods to your mouth, not the other way around.

Never talk with your mouth full.

Under no circumstances should you smoke.

Be sparing in your alcohol consumption. This is not party time, its business. Keep a clear head.

Enjoy yourself.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping Etiquette: Don't Look Like a Tightwad in Front of Your Business Associates

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:12:00 -0700

Whether you're entertaining clients or out with business associates, knowing the proper gratuity for a service or meal is critical. If you are noticeably unsure of yourself, you may come off as unsophisticated, and if you are inaccurate you may come off as a cheapskate. You need to make sure you are comfortable with these simple financial transactions.

Here are Excelle's Guidelines for Tipping Food and Cocktail Servers

1. Be Generous.
Give and you shall receive. Even when your server has made a mistake or your meal was not as delicious as you had hoped, leaving a generous tip will demonstrate that you are a good hearted and trustworthy person. Tipping 15% is considered the standard in the US so leaving 20% will make an impression.

2. Pre-tax or Post-Tax?
Either is socially acceptable, but using the total bill may be both easier and more generous.

3. Gift Certificates and Coupons.
If you give your client a gift certificate or coupon, than make sure to pay the tip in advance. It will impress your client that they are so taken care of by you.

4. Discounts and Complimentary Items.
If you are out with clients and obtain complimentary or discounted services or goods, it is always customary to tip servers based on the regular price of the item. For example, if a restaurant brings over a complimentary bottle of good champagne, you should factor that into your final tip amount.

5. Who Else do I Tip?
You should tip everyone who is serving you and your client, but the following list should cover most of the services you will encounter as a professional in sales.

Taxis, Limos, and Drivers: 15% of the total fare or more if multiple stops or heavy baggage is involved. If you are paying for your client, make sure to cover the tip as well.

Courtesy Shuttle: If baggage is involved, tip $1-$2 per bag.

Valet or Parking Attendant: $1-$3 at the time the car is returned.

Baggage Handlers & Hotel Bellmen: $1-$2 per bag as they assist you with your luggage.

Massage: 10-15% of the bill, make sure to cover the cost for your client.

Spa or Salon Treatment: 15-20% of the bill, make sure to cover the cost for your client.

Golf Caddy: $15-$20

Golf or Tennis Lesson: $0

Your Cheat Sheet

1. Print out this tip guide

2. Fold on the dotted line and tape the sides together

3. Use as a quick reference for tipping when you are stuck with the math. Try to be discrete so clients don't notice.

Quiz: What's Your Workplace Etiquette IQ?

Business Etiquette 101

Susan Bryant | Monster Contributing Writer — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:38:00 -0700

Introductions

The proper way to make an introduction is to introduce a lower-ranking person to a higher-ranking person. For example, if your CEO is Mrs. Jones and you are introducing administrative assistant Jane Smith to her, the correct introduction would be "Mrs. Jones, I'd like you to meet Jane Smith."

If you forget a person's name while making an introduction, don't panic. Proceed with the introduction with a statement such as, "I'm sorry, your name has just slipped my mind." Omitting an introduction is a bigger faux pas than salvaging a botched introduction.

Handshakes

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Handshakes

The physical connection you make when shaking hands with someone can leave a powerful impression. When someone's handshake is unpleasant in any way, we often associate negative character traits with that person. A firm handshake made with direct eye contact sets the stage for a positive encounter.

Women take note: To avoid any confusion during an introduction, always extend your hand when greeting someone. Remember, men and women are equals in the workplace.

E-mail Etiquette

[page]

E-Mail Etiquette

Email, faxes, conference calls and cell phones can create a veritable landmine of professional etiquette. Just because you have the capability to reach someone 24/7, it doesn't mean you should.

Email is so prevalent in many of today's companies that the transmission of jokes, spam and personal notes often constitute more of the messages employees receive than actual work-related material. Remember that your email messages are an example of your professional correspondence. Professional correspondence does not include smiley faces or similar emoticons.

Faxes and Conference Calls

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Faxes and Conference Calls

Faxes should always include your contact information, date and number of pages included. They should not be sent unsolicited - they waste the other person's paper and tie up the lines.

Conference call etiquette entails introducing all the participants at the beginning of the call so everyone knows who is in attendance. Since you're not able to see other participants' body language and nonverbal clues, you will have to compensate for this disadvantage by communicating very clearly.

Be aware of unintentionally interrupting someone or failing to address or include attendees because you can't see them. And finally, don't put anyone on speakerphone until you have asked permission to do so.

Cell Phones

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Cell Phones

Cell phones can be a lifesaver for many professionals. Unfortunately, if you are using a cell phone, you are most likely outside your office and may be preoccupied with driving, catching a flight or some other activity.

Be sensitive to the fact that your listener may not be interested in a play-by-play of traffic or the other events you are experiencing during your call.

Even if you have impeccable social graces, you will inevitably have a professional blunder at some point. When this happens, Klinkenberg offers this advice: Apologize sincerely without gushing or being too effusive. State your apology like you mean it, and then move on.

Making too big an issue of your mistake only magnifies the damage and makes the recipient more uncomfortable.

Dining Etiquette

Business Etiquette You Should Know

Susan Bryant | Monster Contributing Writer — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:30:00 -0700

What's the difference between the rising star whose career is picking up speed and his counterpart who can't seem to get the engine to turn over? Often, the star has mastered the nuances of business etiquette - the subtle but critical behaviors that can make or break an important meeting, influence a first impression or impress a potential client.

According to Hilka Klinkenberg, director of Etiquette International, a business etiquette firm, the basics of professional etiquette are really quite simple. First, understand the difference between business etiquette and social etiquette. Business etiquette is genderless. For example, the traditional chivalrous etiquette of holding the door open for a woman is not necessary in the workplace and can even have the unintended effect of offending her. In the work environment, men and women are peers.

Second, your guiding principle should always be to treat people with consideration and respect. Although this may seem obvious, Klinkenberg cites this basic decency as a frequent casualty in today's workplace.

Here are a few of the specific dos and don'ts of business etiquette you are likely to encounter during your workday.

First: Introduction Etiquette

excelle

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3. K.I.S.S.

4. Stay Calm

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7. Remember your priorities

What about you? What advice do you have (sarcastic or otherwise)?

Five Friends You Should Have at Work

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Twitter Mistakes to Avoid at Work

Get Started: #1. Lying on the Job

1. Lying on the Job

Next: #2. Goofing Off at Work

2. Goofing Off at Work

Next: #3. Complaining About a Coworker

3. Complaining About a Coworker

Next: #4. Complaining About Your Boss

4. Complaining About Your Boss

Next: #5. Boss & Coworker

5. Complaining About Your Boss & Your Coworker

Next: #6. Colorful Language

6. Colorful Language

Next: #7. Bored at Work

7. Bored at Work

Next: #8. The Workload

8. The Workload

Next: #9. Criticizing Your Boss' Job

9. Criticizing Your Boss' Job

Next: #10. Using Other Social Networks

10. Using Other Social Networks

Next: #11. Threatening Violence

11. Threatening Violence

Next: Lesson Learned?

Job Searching? It's All About Who You Know

5 Friends You Should Have at Work

5 Best (and Worst!) Things About Moving Back in with Your Parents

Here are the best – and worst! – things about moving back in with the 'rents.

#1 Best: The Price is Right

#2 Best: Roommates—Better the Devil You Know

#3 Best: Housekeeping? My Mom Does It All!

#4: Best: Mom’s Home Cooking

#5 Best: A 24/7 Support System

#1: Worst: Community Living = Zero Privacy

#2 Worst: Regression

#3 Worst: Sibling Rivalry Resurfaces

#4 Worst: You Lose Control over the Remote Control

#5: Worst: Dating Might Be on Hold Until You Move Out

Franchising: Make Money and Grow Your Career

Next Page: You Make Money, They Make Money →

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