Its a zoo out there!

Its a zoo out thereIts a zoo out thereOK, weve all read the headlines over the past few months. Weve seen job losses left and right, leaving individuals scrambling for scraps, in the form of whatever few jobs are still available. Manhattan, the city hit worst by the credit crisis, has become a veritable jungle of sorts, with laid-off bankers, lawyers and hedge fund managers (but why stop there?) baring their teeth, clawing at each other and trampling their kin to get first dibs at the bloodied carcass. Its all very Darwinian Those with the most professional experience and extensive networks (and charisma never hurt anyone) will be rewarded with staying power, and will almost certainly be at the head of the pack in their quest for survival. Of course (and thankfully), society has put up barriers that prevent humans from sinking to the level of jungle animals, but at times like these, our animalistic tendencies do tend to come out. Id say its more like a zoo, with animal instincts comi ng into play, but with bars and limitations preventing all-out chaos (though Bernie Madoff seems to have evaded such bars for now, at least). And what of our zoos? We learned this week that even they are not in the clear these days, as states are considering cutting funding for zoos, botanical gardens and aquariums. For example, to address a $15.4 billion budget shortfall in New York, Governor Patterson has proposed cutting funding for the above from $9 million to $4 million in 2009, and eliminating funding completely in 2010. Similar efforts are under way in California, Kansas, Florida and Maryland. The Wildlife Conservation Society hasnt wasted any time in producing viral videos to unite supporters against the proposed cuts, which would eliminate educational and outreach programs, cut back on free and reduced-admission hours and close exhibits. If these cuts do come to fruition, Id put big money on increased circulation of cute animal videos on YouTube and cheesy websites devoted to the cuteness cause. This news only makes the zoo analogy that much stronger to the current state of the job market. Perhaps its fairer to say that zoos are now like investment banks? Posted by Naomi Newman, Vault Global Consulting Editor

These are the countries where robots have the most jobs

These are the countries where robots have the most jobsThese are the countries where robots have the most jobsWe know the robots are coming for our jobs, but depending on where you live this may happen in a shorter amount of time.According to online statistics, market research and business intelligence portalStatista, there are already a number of countries where the rise of the machines is very much in play. In a new chart using data from theInternational Federation of RoboticsStatista looks at the countries where you will find the highest density of robot workers.South Korea took top prize with 631 robots per 10,000 human workers. According to theIFR, this is due to that countrys installation of a high volume of robots specifically in the electrical/electronics and automotive industries.Singapore wasnt too far behind with 488 installed robots per 10,000 people and Germany came in strong for third with 309 robots for every 10,000 people. The U.S. took the seventh spot just ahead of Italy with 189 robots. Take a look at the chart below for the rest of the rankings.The most important thing to take away from this data is that there is no slow down in sight when it comes to robots coming for jobs.

How to Become an Extra in Movies and Television

How to Become an Extra in Movies and TelevisionHow to Become an Extra in Movies and TelevisionAll of those people you binnensee wandering around the background of your favorite movies and television shows are called extras. Extras are actors and actresses who serve as dressed background. They help to sell the idea that a scene is filled with real people just going about their daily business. Extras arent always professional actors. In fact, most extras are just regular folk who wanted to be a parte of the film and television industry. Extras are paid a fairly small wage for their participation and they are usually expected to stay on set from the beginning of production until wrap (the end of production). Depending on the type, size and budget of the production, the extras may or may not take part in makeup, wardrobe, hair, etc. Often many period pieces will entail that the extras are fully dressed and fitted which means that they are provided with costuming by the wardrobe departmen t. But more often than not, extras are simply informed beforehand of the type of clothing they will need to bring and asked to furnish it themselves. So, none of this seems all that glamorous, right? Well, the fact is that being an extra really isnt all that glamorous. In fact, its probably one of the least glamorous positions on a set. That said, why would anyone in their right mind want to do such a job? Networking Probably the best reason to take a job working as an extra is it gives you the ability to network with dozens of fellow people who are all trying to break into the industry in one capacity or another. The contacts you make here might lead to a number of other opportunities down the line as many of the people you come across could perhaps find success in their niche and thus be able to help you in your own career endeavors. Understanding the Industry If youre new to the industry, no matter how many books you read or classes you take, you can never fully understan d the inner workings of a film or television set unless you spend a great deal of time on one. There is a reason Hollywood is called a factory. The main reason is because much of the work that is done on a set is manual labor. From lugging cable and camera dollies to adjusting lights, props, etc., a movie set is a factory churning out film and television as its product. Being an extra on a set will expose you to this reality, as well as let you see first hand what these people do. You might find that there are particular jobs you never even thought of that are appealing to you. Opportunity Its not likely, but it has certainly been known to happen that someone may spot you and realize that you are meant for much more than just background. From casting directors to writers to agents wandering the set, you never know who has their eyes on you. So, being on a set in this capacity might just open up a few doors you never thought possible. How to Get the Job Extras are hired eith er as individuals for a particular scene or in groups for a series of shots. There are Extras Wrangling companies which are those companies that specialize in finding extras of a particular age, appearance or ethnic background. By registering with these companies, they simply contact you when an opportunity with criteria that matches your particular physical description comes up. You are then given a call sheet by the production office and told when to report to work. On most sets, your boss will either be the Second Assistant Director or Extras Captain (or Wrangler- or it could even be under a different name- it depends on the production company). Make things easy on yourself and on them by doing exactly as youre told. They will be very specific about things like when to come out, where to go and whom you should and should not speak to on a set. This directive will be made very clear to you by the way as its distinctly possible you could be made an extra on a production that has a major star roaming around and the last thing they want you doing is approaching them uninvited. mora often than not, youll simply be replaced if you ignore this directive. That said, its an easy, yet tiring and thankless job. However, if youre simply looking for any way to be a part of a Hollywood movie or television set than becoming an extra might just be your ticket in.

How to Move Down the Career Ladder

How to Move Down the Career LadderHow to Move Down the Career LadderSometimes, moving down the career ladder, instead of up, can make sense. It could be by choice if you want to opt out of a fast-track career for a job thats less stressful or for a job thats more fun. In other cases, especially in a down job market or an industry thats not doing well, it can make sense to look at alternative job options and downsize your career. How do you move down the career ladder instead of up it? First, you need to consider the fact that you may earn less money, but you may also have more flexibility, less stress, and more employment options. Then, you need to consider what alternatives are available and how to find and apply for them. Tips For Moving Down the Career Ladder Make a decision. Decide if you can get by on a lower salary. If so, how much less? Are the benefits a lower level job may have worth what you are potentially giving up in a more lucrative position? Use a salary calculator to see what you could earn in a different job. Consider some of the ways you can change careers without having to go back to school.Consider job options. What are you interested in? What would you like to do? Do you want to leave yourjob as a college administrator to work in a bookstore? Or maybe you would like to leave a financial services position to sell real estate, to work at home, in a seasonal jobor at a couple of part-time positions. Review career and job options to get ideas, consider how you could makeover your career, then spend some time decidingwhat your ideal employer would be like. Tap your connections.Your online connections and personal contacts are resources you can use to get information on career optionsand to help with a job search. See if you can set up some informational interviewsto find out more about jobs of interest.Give it a try. When youre not sure what you want to do, try it out. Consider a part-time job or volunteer to make sure that it is really some thing you want to do. Before you give up a high-paying job, it makes sense to test the waters, if you can. There are many opportunities for gig jobsyou can explore while you still have your day job. Revamp your resume. Resume experts usually tell you that you should highlight your skills and experiences to enhance your employment prospects. In this case, you will want to edit your resume, focusing on what you want to do (rather than what you are doing). Tone it downso you dont come across as high-powered as you really are. Here are tips for writing a resume when youre overqualified.Use your titel letters. When writing cover letters, focus on your transferable skills that are relevant to the new job. You can use those skills to help explain your transition. Heres an example of a career change cover letterand tips for writing a cover letter when youre overqualified for a job. Get to know job applications. You may never have had to fill out a job application, so its a good idea to get to know them. You may need to fill out an online job application, a paper job applicationor apply in person. Heres what you need to know about job applications and how to complete them.Start a job search. This part is one of the simpler steps in the process of downsizing your career. The higher the levelof the position, the fewer jobs are available and the more competition there is. The opposite holds true, so you will have more choices and more job listings to consider when youre looking for lower-level jobs. Start with the job search engines, then use niche sites to find job postings in the geographic schauplatz and industry in which you would like to work. Consider it a transition. Instead of considering your new job a step-down, consider that youre doing something different. Every job is of value, regardless of what were doing. Its what you give and what you get out of your work thats important.Be brave.Change is scary for most people. It can be even scarier if youre looking f or a mid-career changeand starting over. The alternative is worse though. It can be better to take the leap and try something new than it would be to stay stuck in a job you hate. Be humble. This is probably the most important advice there is. When you are moving down the career ladder, by choice or not, you may not be considered as the important person you once thought you were. Be humble, be flexibleand be willing to do what your bosses need you to do.

The Most Popular How to Write a Resume for a Job with No Experience

The Most Popular How to Write a Resume for a Job with No Experience Job seekers do not know about the unpredictable changes in the work industry. Despite no work experience, you still must find out how to compose a resume that includes your educational qualifications, other beneficial skills that you can have, student posts that you might have held, summer jobs which you could be been in etc.. If you wish to get hired for the job, you must make certain your resume will get observed. For this reason, you must provide a great impression of yourself to the einstellungsgesprch. Purchasing a resume writing book may be recommended, especially if it gives online updates and further advice. Its possible for you to ask about the salary only once you get the work offer. Job profile on the site must be quite informative about you and all the info given by you ought to be genuine. You have to practice interviewing. The skills a chronological resume may be unable to to highlight are in a position to be emphasized in a functional resume. Why Almost Everything Youve Learned About How to Write a Resume for a Job with No Experience Is Wrong It is possible to also provide the details about your present-day designation in your existing company if youre working somewhere. Always match your skills to the requirements of the job youre applying for. It is recommended to overview the businesss requirement before writing an effective resume. To begin with, you should research about the business you are applying for. Resume writing Objective is an integral section in any type of resume. Writing about personal objectives and aspirations ought to be kept to a minimum and is frequently unnecessary. Have as much background and make fantastic reasons about why youre applying for that firm. In fact, job seekers are benefitted in a number of ways by a trusted job providing agency. Its good if youre able to describe the experience that is more relevant for the job youre applyin g. Although applying for new positions can be quite stressful, attempt to remain relaxed. Yes, its almost always a very good idea to decide on a voreingestellt and a universal font which works on any windows. A free resume template is a kind of basic sample for a resume that a man or woman might want to develop. You keep yourself in the area of recruiter and make the ideal choice of font. You should have a very clear picture in your mind of what you could be doing in the event you get the job. You never wait to recommend your work and company to your jobless friends and family since you believe its the best option in their opinion. Allow a great deal of time if youre likely to drive. When you get to your house, send another thank you e-mail. A number of interview tips may make all of the difference to your likelihood of achieving your fantasy occupation with a new business. A superb video resume maker will enable you to create a video resume. Utilizing the most suitable vi deo resume maker site can provide you the edge you must stand out when looking for employment. Making a video resume is a significant step to stay informed about todays fast paced, digital job marketplace. All About How to Write a Resume for a Job with No Experience Consider the cover letter as the very first shot youve got at getting the employer to check at your resume. Dress up like youre already working for a professional firm. Show the interviewer that youre perfect for the job with that exact first glance. If you are offered an interview with a new company, youre in an excellent place to further your career.

How to Build a Successful Corporate Learning Culture - Spark Hire

How to Build a Successful Corporate Learning Culture - Spark HireGiving your employees the opportunity to learn at work has several benefits. Not only does it sharpen their skills for their current role, but it also gives them the opportunity to develop professionally for the future. A company that cares about its employees by giving them multiple opportunities to expand their skill sets is one that theyll want to work for long-term.If you dont yet have an established corporate learning culture, heres how to create one.For the Onboarding ProcessWhile there are multiple opportunities to incorporate learning within your company, the first place to start is with new hires. Not only will proper training ensure that theyre equipped to handle their new roles, but it could mean mora success for your company as a whole companies that spend the most per employee on training have 24% higher profit margins and 218% higher income per employee than those who spend the least on training.When it co mes to new hire training, variety makes for better retainment. Start with a learning management system that allows new employees to access cloud-based training materials online at their leisure. Include quizzes to test their knowledge. Additionally, pair each hire with an established employee who can demonstrate how to perform certain tasks, then observe as the new employee tries them out.Give new hires plenty of resources to succeed, and be there to answer questions that they may have. Consider the first 90 days an adjustment period and check in frequently to ensure that each new hire feels adequately prepared for their role.To Promote Internal MobilityNew hires arent the only ones who need to learn. Creating an ongoing corporate learning program not only keeps existing employees engaged and challenged by giving them the opportunity to learn new skills, but it also provides them with the chance to position themselves for internal promotions and different roles.Its easy for daily ta sks to feel rote after a while, and thats where complacency sinks in for many employees. If theyre not being challenged at work, they may look for new jobs elsewhere. A better strategy is to keep them engaged by providing a robust learning environment that allows staff to pick and choose what they want to learn. Maybe a social media manager wants to learn about content management systems so they can start blogging for the company. Or an accountant is curious about a new software tool the department is considering. If you provide learning opportunities for these employees, theyll feel your company is invested in their success, and theyll work harder.For employees who outgrow their roles, they need to understand that internal mobility is encouraged at your company. Certainly, you have self-serving reasons for wanting to keep employees working for you for years, but it also benefits the employee who can take it upon themselves to learn new skills to add to their resume or apply towards a promotion or different role.Online courses come in handy in this case, too. Create learning modules that employees can choose from and take at their convenience. Align the modules you create with specific roles so that if an employee wants to apply for a position, they are already armed with the knowledge needed to qualify through the training you provide.So how much should you spend on training an employee? It may depend on your resources and budget, but companies that spend $1,500 per employee have been shown to see 24% more profit. Its less important how much you spend than how strategic your efforts are to retain and engage employees. Even a 10% increase in educational development can produce an 8.6% gain in productivity.To Attract Quality CandidatesEverything comes full circle. While you now incorporate strategic learning and training tools in the onboarding process and provide established employees the ability to grow through learning, you can also attract better candidates when youre hiring by promoting the fact that you encourage professional development and internal mobility.Just like great health insurance coverage and work-from-home Fridays appeal to a job candidate, so too is having the ability to get additional skills training without paying to do so or having to attend courses outside of work. You can leverage this benefit to attract the best talent.Wrap-UpEmployees want to learn, whether theyre joining your company or have worked for you for years. Companies that understand this fact and value a corporate learning culture see increased productivity, higher employee morale, and less turnover. Talk to your employees about what they want in terms of learning opportunities, and provide it. After all, arent your best assets worth the investment?About the AuthorChristine Soeun Choi is a digital marketing associate at Fit Small Business. Currently based in NYC, she has a background in business studies and math with a passion for business development . Outside of work, Christine enjoys taking photos, exploring artwork, and traveling.

How Teens Should Answer Interview Queries About Teams

How Teens Should Answer Interview Queries About TeamsHow Teens Should Answer Interview Queries About TeamsTeen job interview questions about ones ability to workon a kollektiv are common. They can also be challenging.Most employers simply want to know if youre a good team player,in advance of making you a job offer. Always review the job description carefully in order to understand what each particular employer means when they use the word teamwork. In most instances, a prospective employer is looking for people who can pitch in and take on many different roles. However, for an entry-level position(which is most likely to be the case if youre a teen with little or no experience) it may simply mean that an employer wants someone who can get along with others in a professional environment. When answering the question, be sure toprovide a specific example that demonstrates your teamwork ability. Answer the Questions Convincing It isparticularly important for new grads to be able to talk about their teamwork skills in a very convincingmanner. Thats because early in your career you probably dont have a strong professional track record to draw upon.Therefore, the hiring manager will be hiring you based on your potential abilities and youll be judged by your academic, extracurricular, and internship experiences.In the interview, they are just trying to get a sense of what you would be like in a team situation. Teamwork Questions Questions about teamwork can be general, such as, Tell me about a team project that you have worked on. Or, Tell me about a team experience that you found rewarding, and why. You may also be asked to discuss a challenging (though typical) team dynamic, such as a time when you worked with a difficult team member. All of these teamwork questions offer you an opportunity to explainhow well you collaborate with others. You can ace these questions and move closer to a job offer if you spend a little timepreparing. Appropriate Answers Abo ut Teamwork Adapt any of the three answers below to show a potential employer that you are a team player. I have had many experiences working with a team as a member of my high school athletic program. As a member of my sports team, I understand what it means to be a part of something bigger than myself. Team sports has taught me how to work with a group to accomplish a shared goal.As captain of my debate team, I acquired many different team-building skills. I have learned how critical it is to make every member of the team feel important, included, and motivated to be the best that they can be.Over the summer I interned at Just Practicing Law Firm in downtown Detroit and six of us teamed up to research a particularlydifficult case. We decided to split up the research and meet twice a week and then swimming-pool our research results. I discovered that I could never have completed the work on my own, but working together we got the job done. I enjoyed the experience of a shared expe rience in which each of us used our best skills and talents to produce one cohesive result.?

Essential Qualities of a Good Professional Mentor

Essential Qualities of a Good Professional MentorEssential Qualities of a Good Professional MentorA good beratering relationship provides new employees as well as interns with someone that will share their professional knowledge and expertise in the field. A good mentor is available to answer any questions relevant to the job. Good mentor-mentee relationships are a two-way street consequently, if you want a good relationship with your mentor, become a good mentee. This requires a genuine interest in your mentor and a willingness to do what it takes to become successful as an intern or new employee in the field. Following suggestions and recommendations as well as reading all pertinent literature available in the field is a good way to show your mentor that you are committed to being successful and that you take your career and responsibilities seriously. A good mentor possesses the following qualities Willingness to Share Skills, Knowledge, and Expertise A good mentor is willing to teach what he/she knows and accept the mentee wzu siche they currently are in their professional development. Good mentors can remember what it was like just starting out in the field. The mentor does not take the mentoring relationship lightly and understands that good mentoring requires time and commitment and is willing to continually share information and their ongoing support with the mentee. Demonstrates a Positive Attitude and Acts As a Positive Role Model A good mentor exhibits the personal attributes it takes to be successful in the field. By showing the mentee what it takes to be productive and successful, they are demonstrating the specific behaviors and actions required to succeed in the field. Takes a Personal Interest in the Mentoring Relationship Good mentors do not take their responsibility as a mentor lightly. They feel invested in the success of the mentee. Usually, this requires someone who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and possesses the attributes of a good teacher or trainer. Excellent communication skills are also required. A good mentor is committed to helping their mentees find success and gratification in their chosen profession. Overall good mentoring requires empowering the mentee to develop their own strengths, beliefs, and personal attributes. Exhibits Enthusiasm in the Field A mentor who does not exhibit enthusiasm about his/her job will ultimately not make a good mentor. Enthusiasm is catching and new employees want to feel as if their job has meaning and the qualifikation to create a good life. Values Ongoing Learning and Growth in the Field Mentors are in a position to illustrate how the field is growing and changing and that even after many years there are still new things to learn. Anyone that feels stagnant in their current position will not make a good mentor. When starting out in a new career, people want to feel that the time and energy they spend learning will be rewarded and will ultimately provid e them with career satisfaction. Good mentors are committed and are open to experimenting and learning practices that are new to the field. They continually read professional journals and may even write articles on subjects where they have developed some expertise. They are excited to share their knowledge with new people entering the field and take their role seriously in teaching their knowledge to others. They may choose to teach or attend classes to further develop their knowledge and skills. They enjoy taking workshops and attending professional conferences provided through their membership in professional associations. Provides Guidance and Constructive Feedback One of the key responsibilities of a good mentor is to provide guidance and constructive feedback to their mentee. This is where the mentee will most likely grow the most by identifying their current strengths and weaknesses and learning how to use ansicht to make themselves successful in the field. A good mentor possesses excellent communication skills and is able to adjust their communication to the personality style of the mentee. A good mentor will also provide the mentee with challenges that will foster professional development and a feeling of accomplishment in learning the field. Respected by Colleagues and Employees in All Levels of the Organization Ideally, mentees look up to their mentors and can see themselves filling the mentors role in the future. Mentees want to follow someone who is well respected by colleagues and co-workers and whose contribution in the field is appreciated. Sets and Meets Ongoing Personal and Professional Goals A good mentor continually sets a good example by showing how his/her personal habits are reflected by personal and professional goals and overall personal success. Values the Opinions and Initiatives of Others A mentor who values others is also someone who works well in a team environment and is willing to share his/her success. A good me ntor appreciates the ongoing effort of the mentee and empowers him/her through positive feedback and reinforcement. Motivates Others by Setting a Good Example. The ultimate success of being a good mentor

Red Flags to Watch Before Signing a Modeling Agency

Red Flags to Watch Before Signing a Modeling AgencyRed Flags to Watch Before Signing a Modeling AgencyThere are plenty of ethical modeling agencies that genuinely look out for the best interest of their models, and work hard to help them be successful. Unfortunately, there are a few bad eggs out there who may try to take advantage of new models. When red flags are popping up all over the place on your journey to becoming a successful model, its best to pull the plug as soon as possible before you end up spending money with an agency that promises big things but will never deliver. Quite often, if something feels off with an agency, it is. However, if youre not familiar with the modeling industry, certain things that are commonplace might throw you off if you dont know better. Here are five questions to ask that will help you figure out if a modeling agency is legitimate or just out to take advantage of you. Is the Agency in Good Standing With the BBB (Better Business Bureau)? The BBB is a system for rating businesses and their ethical practices to give consumers feedback and help them make smart decisions. The BBB has certain standards for businesses to be accredited by them. If youre seeking information about the legitimacy of a modeling agency, this is a good place to start. Its a very positive sign if the agency is recognized and accredited by the BBB. The BBB is also a good place to find out if there have been reports filed against that agency claiming it has been practicing unethically or taking advantage of aspiring models. Do They Promise Huge Numbers to departure? We are all used to seeing photos ofsupermodels living luxurious lives and earning millions of dollars a year this might have been a guiding factor in your decision to start modeling. While modeling certainly can be a financially rewarding career, it takes time, hard work, and a great agency to get to this point. If you are a new model, and an agency is promising you numbers that sound way too good to be true, to begin with, chances are, they wont deliver, and you may even end up losing money rather than earning it. Does the Agency Insist on Modeling Classes? There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking modeling classes if your goals are self-improvement and having some fun.However, it is a red flag if an agency insists that you take their classes before they represent you for jobs. Models should never be required to enroll in modeling classes, and if an agency requires it of you, it is a sign that the agency earns its income on classes rather than booking modeling jobs. A lot of new models live in smaller modeling markets outside of New York, Paris and Milan, therefore, finding an agency that can survive by only booking modeling jobs can be very difficult. Having a modeling school attached to the agency is the only way for the agency to find new models who may ultimately become the next supermodel.So, if you live in a smaller market, dont dismiss them right away, but use your best judgment to determine whether or not they are the right agency for you. Does the Agency Insist on a Specific Photographer? Sometimes an agency will have an in-house photographer and will insist that you purchase photo shoots or portfolio packages from them and their photographer.It usually means that the agency is simply a front for a photo mill and should be a huge red flag. Again, this is the time for you to use your best judgment since many legitimate agencies may prefer that you work with photographers that they are familiar with, and whose work they know will lead to you getting bookings.Agencies in major markets will usually provide test shoots at no upfront cost but will deduct the cost from your first job. Keep in mind that professional photos are never required before you meet with agencies to determine if you have the potential to become a model. Simple snapshots are just fine and are often preferred by agencies that just want to see the real yo u without special lighting or makeup.