After several long months of unsuccessfully posting his résumé and applying to jobs online, Alex Ballin, 24, decided to take his job search into his own hands.
The 2008 graduate from Radford University planted himself at a busy intersection in downtown Roanoke, Virginia, sporting a white sign that read, "Talented B.A. Needs Career" along with his business suit.
He wanted to get employers' attention and it wasn't happening from simply submitting applications online. One employer thought Ballin's efforts showed drive and ambition and tossed a business card out of his car to Ballin. He got an interview a week later.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/11/17/cb.what.says.hire.me/index.html?imw=Y&iref=mpstoryemail
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
I LOVE my new Kindle
OK, so I took the bite after I saw the Oprah Winfrey show on the awesomeness of Amazon's Kindle. Yes, I watch Oprah Winfrey and I love most of her advice and programs.
And boy am I happy about the decision to buy the Kindle. It's about three weeks that I have it and so far I've finished close to 5 books and I am reading a book that is about a 1,000 pages. This is something I've really missed doing since I was a young 'un. Reading a long long book. I had stopped reading them since it's so difficult to schlep them around. So now I'm back to reading books that are over 500 pages! Yay! And with Kindle I'm reading many books simultaneously.
My Kindle and I are inseparable.
Here are the pros and cons of the Kindle from my point of view:
The good:
The not so good:
Let me know if you're buying a Kindle!
And boy am I happy about the decision to buy the Kindle. It's about three weeks that I have it and so far I've finished close to 5 books and I am reading a book that is about a 1,000 pages. This is something I've really missed doing since I was a young 'un. Reading a long long book. I had stopped reading them since it's so difficult to schlep them around. So now I'm back to reading books that are over 500 pages! Yay! And with Kindle I'm reading many books simultaneously.
My Kindle and I are inseparable.
Here are the pros and cons of the Kindle from my point of view:
The good:
- It has changed the way I read.
- I ended up reading three books this weekend simultaneously. I feel like I'm back in college!
- I could previously not do this since logging around 3 books is not practical at all. :-)
- There was a Kindle book I couldn't download from Amazon, I was able to download it through the Kindle device. It was available that way which I find it's weird.
- The Kindle is small enough that it fits in my purse and I can read it anywhere. Very Obvious.
- The best feature for me is that it has a dictionary. Which cuts down on my frustration when reading. I've already learned so many new words. Another reason I like this is that I'm reading a sixth grade level book for my son at night. And as soon as we come across a word he doesn't know he tells me to look it up! He is getting into the habit of looking up new words. I LOVE this!
- Before purchasing a book, you can download the first chapter to see if you like it. Because of this feature I ended up not buying a book. But then the very same feature led me to buy about three other books! I liked that. :-)
- Book are $9.99 or cheaper on the kindle! Wow! This thing will pay for it self.
- I'll be cutting down on book clutter at home. Another awesome WOW for me, the clutter queen.
- This is silly, but I love the screen saver on it.
- Another silly thing. The packaging that it came with was just simply Divine! Oh and it comes with a cover to protect your device.
The not so good:
- There are places in my house that I can not download books.
- I wish it had a light for reading at night time. I'm an insomniac so this would be a GREAT feature for me since I read a lot at night time.
- There is not enough keyboard shortcuts to get to the most used features Or at least I don't know them yet.
- Sometimes the scroll wheel feels clunky as I need to navigate through the menus. But I'm getting used to it.
- Reading it around water makes me nervous.
- Finally, not all the books I want are on Amazon but at this particular point in time it's not a big deal. I already have enough books to keep me happy.
Let me know if you're buying a Kindle!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Time Management from Ready to Hire
I got the following 11 Tips to Take Control of Your Time in an email from Ready to Hire. I know many of these but I have to be reminded of them. I know them but I don't use them... Now there is a concept...
1. Know what is important. Clearly define the most important aspects of your job--the effort that generates key results. If you don't know what that is ask questions such as, "What has the greatest impact or value on your staff members or clients?" "What will increase sales?" Focus on the 20 percent that generates 80 percent of the results.
2. Prioritize and make "To Do" lists. Now that you know what is important about your job make a master weekly "To Do" list. Write a "A," "B," or "C" next to each item based on importance. At the beginning of each day make a daily "To Do" list. Stop and think--which item absolutely must be completed today? This does not include items you'd like to get done today, but only the item(s) that have to be completed today.
3. Avoid the "feel like its." Poor time managers base their actions on their feelings and moods. You know the type, "Yeah, I know the garbage can is overflowing, but I don't feel like taking it out right now." Effective time management is more about habit than feelings. Most people do the easy and simple elements of their job first... like reading their email, scanning the newspaper, cleaning off their desk etc. Good time managers do what is important first, regardless of their feelings. As Nike says, "Just Do It!"
4. Schedule your biggest project for your peak energy period. It took me many years to figure out not everyone is a morning person like me. I hop out of bed before the sun comes up ready to head off to the office, while others don't hit their stride until 3 p.m. Therefore, during your peak energy period focus your mental and physical resources on the largest projects.
5. Learn to delegate. A person who refuses to delegate will likely be a very busy, frustrated and heading for burnout. It is not necessary for a manager to personally handle every item. One very successful regional sales manager readily attributed part of his success to the fact that he trusted his administrative assistant to handle routine items that did not require his personal decision. This left him free to concentrate on working with sales personnel outside the office.
6. Toss it or file it. Follow the rule to touch paper only once. Know what is important and throw away every piece of paper you don't think you will need. If you want to keep it spend 10 seconds filing that important paper now rather than 30 minutes searching for it later.
7. Use folders to prioritize your work; sub-divide files. If you are a paperless office, use your computer to sub-divide files. For example, I created electronic folders for my articles titled, "Articles for 2001," and "Articles for 2002." This way I can quickly find what I am looking for. If you have paper files use colors folders to see which jobs need your immediate attention. I use red folders for hot projects and client files. Yellow folders are for new ideas and projects. Blue folders tell me this is for research. Get the idea?
8. Be realistic and stay flexible. One way to set yourself up for a panic attack is to plan an unrealistic amount of work for one day/week/etc. Use your common sense to recognize when you have over-scheduled yourself. Don't get so organized where you become unapproachable.
9. Schedule time for you. Schedule a "personal time" appointment on your calendar each day. If someone wants to see you at that time, just say, "I'm sorry, I have an appointment then." Whether you use this for personal reflection or as a few quiet minutes to catch your breath or simply time to think, it's a legitimate use of time. And you will still get as much, if not more, done.
10. Make sure your electronic planner does not cost you time. People who use electronics enjoy the orderly convenience of a digital assistant, but sometimes they take longer to enter and maintain information in a gadget than to jot it down with a pencil in an old-fashioned paper planner.
11. E-mail. Answer E-mail immediately. The same rule applies to email as paper. Read it once and do something with it. Don't read it and then let it pile up in your in-box thinking you will get back to it. Keep your inbox clutter free. Create a "keeper" folder and transfer the mail you want to keep for later. Create another folder for "Actions pending" etc. Respect other people's time and avoid forwarding those stories/jokes people love to send unless they agree to get them first. Use the delete key aggressively and delete junk e-mail without reading it. Learn to use your filters to eliminate spammers.Time is valuable, and time management can help you be more productive, successful and less stressed out so you have more time to enjoy your life more.
Ready To Hire team www.readytohire.com
Source: http://www.businessknowhow.com/manage/tm101.htm
1. Know what is important. Clearly define the most important aspects of your job--the effort that generates key results. If you don't know what that is ask questions such as, "What has the greatest impact or value on your staff members or clients?" "What will increase sales?" Focus on the 20 percent that generates 80 percent of the results.
2. Prioritize and make "To Do" lists. Now that you know what is important about your job make a master weekly "To Do" list. Write a "A," "B," or "C" next to each item based on importance. At the beginning of each day make a daily "To Do" list. Stop and think--which item absolutely must be completed today? This does not include items you'd like to get done today, but only the item(s) that have to be completed today.
3. Avoid the "feel like its." Poor time managers base their actions on their feelings and moods. You know the type, "Yeah, I know the garbage can is overflowing, but I don't feel like taking it out right now." Effective time management is more about habit than feelings. Most people do the easy and simple elements of their job first... like reading their email, scanning the newspaper, cleaning off their desk etc. Good time managers do what is important first, regardless of their feelings. As Nike says, "Just Do It!"
4. Schedule your biggest project for your peak energy period. It took me many years to figure out not everyone is a morning person like me. I hop out of bed before the sun comes up ready to head off to the office, while others don't hit their stride until 3 p.m. Therefore, during your peak energy period focus your mental and physical resources on the largest projects.
5. Learn to delegate. A person who refuses to delegate will likely be a very busy, frustrated and heading for burnout. It is not necessary for a manager to personally handle every item. One very successful regional sales manager readily attributed part of his success to the fact that he trusted his administrative assistant to handle routine items that did not require his personal decision. This left him free to concentrate on working with sales personnel outside the office.
6. Toss it or file it. Follow the rule to touch paper only once. Know what is important and throw away every piece of paper you don't think you will need. If you want to keep it spend 10 seconds filing that important paper now rather than 30 minutes searching for it later.
7. Use folders to prioritize your work; sub-divide files. If you are a paperless office, use your computer to sub-divide files. For example, I created electronic folders for my articles titled, "Articles for 2001," and "Articles for 2002." This way I can quickly find what I am looking for. If you have paper files use colors folders to see which jobs need your immediate attention. I use red folders for hot projects and client files. Yellow folders are for new ideas and projects. Blue folders tell me this is for research. Get the idea?
8. Be realistic and stay flexible. One way to set yourself up for a panic attack is to plan an unrealistic amount of work for one day/week/etc. Use your common sense to recognize when you have over-scheduled yourself. Don't get so organized where you become unapproachable.
9. Schedule time for you. Schedule a "personal time" appointment on your calendar each day. If someone wants to see you at that time, just say, "I'm sorry, I have an appointment then." Whether you use this for personal reflection or as a few quiet minutes to catch your breath or simply time to think, it's a legitimate use of time. And you will still get as much, if not more, done.
10. Make sure your electronic planner does not cost you time. People who use electronics enjoy the orderly convenience of a digital assistant, but sometimes they take longer to enter and maintain information in a gadget than to jot it down with a pencil in an old-fashioned paper planner.
11. E-mail. Answer E-mail immediately. The same rule applies to email as paper. Read it once and do something with it. Don't read it and then let it pile up in your in-box thinking you will get back to it. Keep your inbox clutter free. Create a "keeper" folder and transfer the mail you want to keep for later. Create another folder for "Actions pending" etc. Respect other people's time and avoid forwarding those stories/jokes people love to send unless they agree to get them first. Use the delete key aggressively and delete junk e-mail without reading it. Learn to use your filters to eliminate spammers.Time is valuable, and time management can help you be more productive, successful and less stressed out so you have more time to enjoy your life more.
Ready To Hire team www.readytohire.com
Source: http://www.businessknowhow.com/manage/tm101.htm
Monday, September 8, 2008
Love this advice - How to ask for a Job!
Advice from John Lucht from his book: "Rites of Passage."
When calling your network to find out about job opportunities, don’t ask for a job. Instead, ask for a reference.
If you call up your college friend, or your old boss, or a former co-worker, and say, “Hey Sally, you know I’ve decided to put out feelers and I’m think about looking for a job, and I was wondering, do you know of anything available in my field?”, it feels awkward and tense for both of you. People don’t like having to say “no” to their friends, and, unfortunately, that’s just the position you’re putting Sally in because chances are she hasn’t heard of anything in your field.
But if, instead, you call her up and say, “Hey, Sally, you know I’ve decided to put out feelers and I’m thinking about looking for a job, and I was wondering, if and when it gets to that point, would you consider being a reference for me?” is a much, much easier conversation, and of course she’ll say yes. Who wouldn’t be a reference for a good friend?
And what’s more, now that you’ve signaled to Sally that you’re looking for a job, and she’s agreed to help you in your search by being a reference, she is on your side. And we all have this natural tendency to want to see something succeed if we’ve agreed to be a part of it, no matter how small our part is (you know how true this is if you’ve ever found yourself rooting for your cousin’s co-worker’s husband’s band). And now that she wants you to succeed, she’ll be thinking about ways she can help you – other people who might be looking to hire somebody like you, jobs that might make sense for you at her company, etc. This is how you really activate your network in the job hunt.
So, remember, don’t ask for a job, ask for a reference.
When calling your network to find out about job opportunities, don’t ask for a job. Instead, ask for a reference.
If you call up your college friend, or your old boss, or a former co-worker, and say, “Hey Sally, you know I’ve decided to put out feelers and I’m think about looking for a job, and I was wondering, do you know of anything available in my field?”, it feels awkward and tense for both of you. People don’t like having to say “no” to their friends, and, unfortunately, that’s just the position you’re putting Sally in because chances are she hasn’t heard of anything in your field.
But if, instead, you call her up and say, “Hey, Sally, you know I’ve decided to put out feelers and I’m thinking about looking for a job, and I was wondering, if and when it gets to that point, would you consider being a reference for me?” is a much, much easier conversation, and of course she’ll say yes. Who wouldn’t be a reference for a good friend?
And what’s more, now that you’ve signaled to Sally that you’re looking for a job, and she’s agreed to help you in your search by being a reference, she is on your side. And we all have this natural tendency to want to see something succeed if we’ve agreed to be a part of it, no matter how small our part is (you know how true this is if you’ve ever found yourself rooting for your cousin’s co-worker’s husband’s band). And now that she wants you to succeed, she’ll be thinking about ways she can help you – other people who might be looking to hire somebody like you, jobs that might make sense for you at her company, etc. This is how you really activate your network in the job hunt.
So, remember, don’t ask for a job, ask for a reference.
If it's good enough for the CIA, FBI...
Then it's good enough for me. I've surprised many of my younger family members by being active on Facebook. Hey it works for me to keep my socialization ties alive...
http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/ptech/09/05/facebook.spies/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/ptech/09/05/facebook.spies/index.html
Thursday, August 14, 2008
I Miss AIM:IM!
While I have fully adjusted to a more formal work environment, strict hours, no jeans except Friday... there is one thing I can't get over not using. And that's my AIM! How wonderful were the days that I used to use Aim at work.
How I used AIM:
- Check to see who is online and working. If they are available to call or email or IM? Instead of calling - just ping see if it's a good time to contact them with a "yt?"
- Same thing with dropping by someone's cube. IM with a "Can I come by?" or "Can I call?"
- Ping other people in remote offices with quick questions. That are typically yes and no answers.
- Send URLs instantly
- Let someone know to expect your email - yes, we did that...
- Finally, a quick fast way to socialize with your co-workers with one liners... Lunch? 10 minute break??? etc.
Not having it feels as if one of my senses has been cut off.
How I used AIM:
- Check to see who is online and working. If they are available to call or email or IM? Instead of calling - just ping see if it's a good time to contact them with a "yt?"
- Same thing with dropping by someone's cube. IM with a "Can I come by?" or "Can I call?"
- Ping other people in remote offices with quick questions. That are typically yes and no answers.
- Send URLs instantly
- Let someone know to expect your email - yes, we did that...
- Finally, a quick fast way to socialize with your co-workers with one liners... Lunch? 10 minute break??? etc.
Not having it feels as if one of my senses has been cut off.
Friday, July 18, 2008
One of my Favorite things in life is ...
going to work happy. The moment I'm no longer happy that's the time I know I have to make a switch and look for something else. You know it's Sunday night and you dread it's Monday the next day... that is one thing I don't want to ever do again in life. Life is too short to hate what you are doing.
So, in the meantime, I do everything possible to keep myself happy at work. It helps being a moronically positive person... :-) But being a moron is just too negative so maybe it's "charming" that I'm so positive?!
Look at this site that I discovered last night. I loved so many of the articles. Take a look, learn a few things and find joy in your work!
http://www.workhappynow.com/
So, in the meantime, I do everything possible to keep myself happy at work. It helps being a moronically positive person... :-) But being a moron is just too negative so maybe it's "charming" that I'm so positive?!
Look at this site that I discovered last night. I loved so many of the articles. Take a look, learn a few things and find joy in your work!
http://www.workhappynow.com/
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
oooh Yea!
Love Gadgets? So do I! Check this site out!
http://gadgets.originalsignal.com/
Has all the news you can imagine on Gadgets. Too cool!
http://gadgets.originalsignal.com/
Has all the news you can imagine on Gadgets. Too cool!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
We have been holdin out for the Wii
Those darn boxes are so expensive. We wanted one for Christmas and could not justify the inflated prices of the thing. Then we found out that they bundle the box with so many useless games that you still have to pay a lot of money to get one.
Then I really wanted a Wii more than ever because on practically all the weight loss sites that I go to people are now begining to talk about losing weight with the Wii - Oh well -I guess that's awesome for them.
And now I see that Microsoft has made a deal with Netflix (we are Netflix users) to stream movies on the XBox through MSN. It's a brilliant idea cuz MicroSoft will definitely reach people who are not gamers this way. Maybe pull those of us who desperately want a Wii to purchasing an XBox? It'll be interesting to watch how this all plays out.
Then I really wanted a Wii more than ever because on practically all the weight loss sites that I go to people are now begining to talk about losing weight with the Wii - Oh well -I guess that's awesome for them.
And now I see that Microsoft has made a deal with Netflix (we are Netflix users) to stream movies on the XBox through MSN. It's a brilliant idea cuz MicroSoft will definitely reach people who are not gamers this way. Maybe pull those of us who desperately want a Wii to purchasing an XBox? It'll be interesting to watch how this all plays out.
Monday, June 30, 2008
A few tools to help with Project Management
This is a link to one of the instructor's Blog at The Learning Tree. This week he is teaching "How to use Sharepoint"... and he has really great tips. Ok enough talking and here is a link to the 5 essential tools for a Project Management per Dux Raymond Sy.
http://sp.meetdux.com/archive/tags/Project%20Management/default.aspx
I gotta start using Twitter and then he mentioned Twirl... So many wonderful things to learn!
:-)
http://sp.meetdux.com/archive/tags/Project%20Management/default.aspx
I gotta start using Twitter and then he mentioned Twirl... So many wonderful things to learn!
:-)
Friday, June 27, 2008
A new word that I LOVE
Specially in the light of some of the stuff I've been doing lately....
Wikidemia
An academic work passed off as scholarly yet researched entirely on Wikipedia."An A on my English paper? That's a fine piece of Wikidemia!
Go Wiki!!!!
Wikidemia
An academic work passed off as scholarly yet researched entirely on Wikipedia."An A on my English paper? That's a fine piece of Wikidemia!
Go Wiki!!!!
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
First Window Washers, Next Glass Doors
I'm amazed at this find. Why hadn't I ever thought of this? During my job search I frequented every Salary site possible and felt as if I had a good handle of what most positions might pay. But this site takes it to the next level. Glassdoor.com but to get a description go to:
http://www.springwise.com/life_hacks/transparency_tyranny_hits_the/
Here is the first Paragraph:
For those seeking a new job, honest information about salaries and workplaces can be near impossible to find. Taking a "give to get" approach to the problem, Glassdoor is a new site that aims to provide a thorough insider's look at what it's really like to work at a company, both financially and otherwise.
http://www.springwise.com/life_hacks/transparency_tyranny_hits_the/
Here is the first Paragraph:
For those seeking a new job, honest information about salaries and workplaces can be near impossible to find. Taking a "give to get" approach to the problem, Glassdoor is a new site that aims to provide a thorough insider's look at what it's really like to work at a company, both financially and otherwise.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
One Billion PCs In Use
Oh my gosh. I so remember the days when we use to talk about the number of computers out there and the number of users. The number of computers on Networks or just stand alone computers. Then all sorts of statistics would come up and we'd discuss them as well. Such as which are the countries with the most computers, the age of these users and the types of industries they might be in. And now in 2008 we are talking about a BILLION PCs in use. We have a number...A Billion... It just blows my mind. Such exciting times!
See the article on Reuters. Here are the first few paragraphs from that article:
According to analysts, the number of PCs in use has broken the billion mark, and growth means that could surpass two billion in 2014.
Analyst company Gartner has said that the number of PCs now in use has finally topped the billion mark. What’s perhaps surprising, though, is that rapid growth in the developing world means that the figure is likely to top the two billion mark by 2014.To date much of the growth has been in the mature markets of the US, Europe and Japan, which has accounted for 58% of demand, but that is likely to change.
See the article on Reuters. Here are the first few paragraphs from that article:
According to analysts, the number of PCs in use has broken the billion mark, and growth means that could surpass two billion in 2014.
Analyst company Gartner has said that the number of PCs now in use has finally topped the billion mark. What’s perhaps surprising, though, is that rapid growth in the developing world means that the figure is likely to top the two billion mark by 2014.To date much of the growth has been in the mature markets of the US, Europe and Japan, which has accounted for 58% of demand, but that is likely to change.
Friday, June 20, 2008
I need a Window Washer
Look at what I found on Washingtonpost.com... So exciting... yes, I'm a geek and this is my world. Welcome!
If the subject of my blog is confusing then read on!
14 Vital Internet Tools
Enjoy,
-- Sepster
If the subject of my blog is confusing then read on!
14 Vital Internet Tools
Enjoy,
-- Sepster
Monday, June 16, 2008
Learning Tree in Top 100!
Learning Tree International is at a respectable #71 in Fortune Small Business (really? It's considered small?) as one of the fastest growing small public companies in America.
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fsb/fsb100/2008/snapshots/71.html
Learning Tree provides training courses for managers and technology professionals. The company has a global reach, working with 11,500 organizations last year alone. Since its founding in 1974, Learning Tree has trained more than 1.8 million participants.
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fsb/fsb100/2008/snapshots/71.html
Learning Tree provides training courses for managers and technology professionals. The company has a global reach, working with 11,500 organizations last year alone. Since its founding in 1974, Learning Tree has trained more than 1.8 million participants.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
It's been way too long
I'll soon resume my updates for my blog. I've been bad bad bad. Since the last time I logged in, I've quit one position and started another. I'm now with Learning Tree International as a product manager. Check us out at: http://www.learningtree.com/! Yea!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
An inexpensive PMP Prep Audio Cast
The Project Management Prepcast - $49.99:
I am not affiliated with them whatsoever. However I've listened to other PM Podcast by Cornelius Fischner - I can never get his name spelled correctly.
You can use your MP3 player to study for the PMP ® Exam with this 35-hour, full-featured PMP Audio Workshop.
The claim that their episodes are interesting and engaging. They won't bore you! they will help you understand PMP concepts instead of memorizing them.
I am not affiliated with them whatsoever. However I've listened to other PM Podcast by Cornelius Fischner - I can never get his name spelled correctly.
You can use your MP3 player to study for the PMP ® Exam with this 35-hour, full-featured PMP Audio Workshop.
The claim that their episodes are interesting and engaging. They won't bore you! they will help you understand PMP concepts instead of memorizing them.
Top Ten Ways to Be Happy at Work!
I think this is a great article. Lots of good tips - well, 10 good tips - on how to be happy at work!
http://humanresources.about.com/od/success/tp/happy_work.htm
check it out!
-- Sepi
http://humanresources.about.com/od/success/tp/happy_work.htm
check it out!
-- Sepi
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Google Coaching Series
Take a look at this goldmine in YouTube presented by Google. Simply Fantastic! Some of the topics are:
- Impactful Communication
- What Tech Women Really Want
- Leading from Strength: Making a Difference
- Advancing Toward Your Dreams & Goals
- Impactful Communication
- What Tech Women Really Want
- Leading from Strength: Making a Difference
- Advancing Toward Your Dreams & Goals
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Tough Times Don't Mean Tough Times on Salary
According to this article, by SARAH E. NEEDLEMAN, despite a tough economy, employers are often willing to pay above and beyond the market average for candidates with skills that are in short supply.
Read More
Read More
Monday, April 21, 2008
Getting Ready to take your PMP?
Check these sites:
- PM Zilla - PMP Prep
- An overview of PMP Topics - Will be updated continuously
- More to Come!!!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Hate Your Job?
You may be able to change it!
Take Oprah Winfrey's workshop offered by the well known Marcus Buckingham. Buckingham is the author of Now, Discover Your Strengths & Go Put Your Strengths to Work: 6 Powerful Steps to Achieve Outstanding Performance. The workshop will help you find your strengths and use those strenghts in your job or use those strengths to find a job that makes you happy.
See: Oprah's Workshop
Good luck!
Take Oprah Winfrey's workshop offered by the well known Marcus Buckingham. Buckingham is the author of Now, Discover Your Strengths & Go Put Your Strengths to Work: 6 Powerful Steps to Achieve Outstanding Performance. The workshop will help you find your strengths and use those strenghts in your job or use those strengths to find a job that makes you happy.
See: Oprah's Workshop
Good luck!
Friday, April 18, 2008
It's Friday! Time for fun
Take a look at these opening lines. So many of them bring back so many good memories... Even the one that says "Hello, Darkness My Old Friend"
Enjoy!
http://www.spinner.com/2007/08/06/best-opening-lyrics-no-25/
Enjoy!
http://www.spinner.com/2007/08/06/best-opening-lyrics-no-25/
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Oh Geek Girl where are you?
A professor says he has only one girl in a computer science major class in 2008, down from 40 percent in 2000. What happened? eWEEK gets field experts to weigh in.
http://www.eweek.com/c/a/Careers/Where-Did-All-the-Girl-Geeks-Go/
http://www.eweek.com/c/a/Careers/Where-Did-All-the-Girl-Geeks-Go/
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
How to ask for a raise?
A Great Email From "Ready To Hire" ~ Read & Learn!
Once you have landed the job you want in the IT field, how do you go about asking for a raise and what the right amount is to negotiate? Ready to Hire offers the following ten tips on what salary surveys in the field are saying about how much your IT experience is worth and how to go about asking for a raise.
1. Survey Says
Before taking the step to sit down with your boss and have a conversation about a possible pay raise, look into what the salary surveys are saying about how much people are making in your field and position today. A great source is the Global Knowledge Salary Survey, as well as popular trade magazines, such as InformationWeek and CIO. These resources have useful information that will help set realistic goals based on experience, niche, and performance.
2. Certifications Can Help
Surveys have shown that those IT professionals who have obtained some sort of certification generally earn a higher base salary than those without the certification. Example: Since 2004, the average annual salary for those who hold a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) has gone from $60,000 to $76,000, a whopping 26 percent increase.
3. One of Many
In the United States today there are 3.49 million IT professionals, and a recent survey shows that 7 out of 10 people say their number one reason for looking for a new job is the pursuit of higher pay. In many cases, the desire for a higher salary outweighs the importance of job stability.
4. Setting Your Salary
During your conversation, keep in mind your area of expertise and your level of experience. As with most jobs, your years of experience are a direct factor in your salary. Most professionals in the IT field that have 1-2 years of experience have an average salary around $47,000, while those with 5-7 years of experience can make $67,000.
When Asking for a Raise:
5. Be Aware
Before initiating a conversation, be aware of the state of the economy and how your company is doing financially. Also take into account when the best time might be to have the conversation. Often it is after you have had a great success or after you have been handed more responsibility in your current position. Sometimes the best time to talk can be during a review when you are already in the midst of discussing your job responsibilities.
6. Show You Deserve It
Make a list of what you have accomplished while working within the company, and then have someone else review it before presenting it with your raise request. Reminding your employer of your contributions reiterates your commitment to the company and encourages your employer to believe a raise is a valued investment.
7. Prepare to ask for "It"
"It" is not only about the conversation for the raise, but what you have shown your employer before beginning the conversation. Ask for more work that you know you have the ability to handle and stay late to meet deadlines.
8. Avoid the Simple Mistakes
Once you enter into the conversation with your supervisor, avoid emphasizing why you need the money, instead focus on your worth and contribution to your employer and why you deserve your requested raise.
9. Stay Away from Comparison
Keep your request for a raise specifically to your own needs without comparing yourself to another employee who may have a similar position. Most importantly, avoid threatening to leave the company unless that is something you are prepared to do.
10. Be Confident
Have confidence in yourself and what you are asking. If you have done the research in what salary surveys are currently saying and what kind of positive contributions you have offered to the company, then know that you are ready for the conversation.
Our recruiters are here to help you get noticed by our premier clients. Reach out and let us know how we can help by calling 215-657-4473.
Sincerely,
Your Ready To Hire team
Great Templates for Free!
http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/3-websites-to-get-any-document-for-free/
I've found all sorts of wonderful documents and templates from the three sites on this page. Enjoy!
I've found all sorts of wonderful documents and templates from the three sites on this page. Enjoy!
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
How much are you willing to pay for a service?
In the recent months I've been looking for the perfect job and I'm sure all the people who interviewed me were doing the same thing. And I always considered their part in the interviews and how much are the willing to pay for my work. Some of the offers were truly ridiculous and I wondered how they are going to find a person to fill that position with that kind of a salary. Demands being high and pay being low...
And then something interesting occurred. On my ew six week contract in DC I started looking for the perfect place to park my car. A car that I'm very attached to. A car that I actually miss on my vacations and long to hear it purr beneath me as we go through short and long journeys and errands in the town. Anyhow you get the point. I love my car.
I looked around for a good parking garage - tried as many as 10 different places in the course of 3 weeks and I was amazed that I actually ended up going to the same place over and over. A parking place that charges $16 a day. Why? Because they took really good care of me and my car. After a few days when the parking attendant learned my daily habits he always had my car ready for me right by the entrance. One day he actually apologized for not having the car ready for me! He didn't waste my time with going and finding the car in the parking lot.
And so I was/am still amazed that I'm willing to pay $16 a day for parking where I can easily find $13. But the cheaper ones did not offer the kind of unexpected service that this parking lot gives me. The smiling faces with the nice greeting I get each day. I come back to it day in and day out and I know once my work contract is over, it's the Parking Lot attendants that I'm really going to miss. I'll miss Omar & Julio.
There is a lesson to be learned. It doesn't matter what kind of business you are in. As long as you do a great job at it you'll be appreciated and no matter what is it you do there is always room for improvement and the improvements don't have to "wow" you. The can be simple things such as just saying hello and remembering your customers. I love these guys. If you are ever in DC you really should park there and see what I mean:
Central Parking
1250 Connecticut Avenue
Washington, DC 20037
And then something interesting occurred. On my ew six week contract in DC I started looking for the perfect place to park my car. A car that I'm very attached to. A car that I actually miss on my vacations and long to hear it purr beneath me as we go through short and long journeys and errands in the town. Anyhow you get the point. I love my car.
I looked around for a good parking garage - tried as many as 10 different places in the course of 3 weeks and I was amazed that I actually ended up going to the same place over and over. A parking place that charges $16 a day. Why? Because they took really good care of me and my car. After a few days when the parking attendant learned my daily habits he always had my car ready for me right by the entrance. One day he actually apologized for not having the car ready for me! He didn't waste my time with going and finding the car in the parking lot.
And so I was/am still amazed that I'm willing to pay $16 a day for parking where I can easily find $13. But the cheaper ones did not offer the kind of unexpected service that this parking lot gives me. The smiling faces with the nice greeting I get each day. I come back to it day in and day out and I know once my work contract is over, it's the Parking Lot attendants that I'm really going to miss. I'll miss Omar & Julio.
There is a lesson to be learned. It doesn't matter what kind of business you are in. As long as you do a great job at it you'll be appreciated and no matter what is it you do there is always room for improvement and the improvements don't have to "wow" you. The can be simple things such as just saying hello and remembering your customers. I love these guys. If you are ever in DC you really should park there and see what I mean:
Central Parking
1250 Connecticut Avenue
Washington, DC 20037
Monday, April 14, 2008
The Red Tent
On the get go you may not think of The Red Tent a book written by Anita Diamant as a book to be read by professional woman. I always loved this book and I was pleasantly surprised that while working at AOL, the women's networking group recommended this book for their book club. The discussion at AOL was lively & wonderful, specially since I hadn't thought to see it as a book to help me professionally.
The book's title refers to the tent in which women of Jacob's tribe must, according to the ancient law, take refuge while menstruating or giving birth, and in which they find mutual support and encouragement from their mothers, sisters and aunts.
Take a look at the book on my favorite website, The Wiki!!! See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Red_Tent
The following is from SparkNotes:
The book's title refers to the tent in which women of Jacob's tribe must, according to the ancient law, take refuge while menstruating or giving birth, and in which they find mutual support and encouragement from their mothers, sisters and aunts.
Take a look at the book on my favorite website, The Wiki!!! See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Red_Tent
The following is from SparkNotes:
The Red Tent
As its title indicates, the red tent is one of the most important and recurring images of the novel and symbolizes the private and magical world of women. It is the red tent in which each of the children in Dinah’s family are born, and it is the red tent where each girl becomes a woman. But it is more than just a place of birth and maturity; it is also a sacred gathering place for women. In the red tent, the women sequester themselves for several days each month, taking time out from their daily duties as mothers and wives to spoil themselves with cakes and rest upon the straw. It is in the tent that they forge, break, and rebuild their bonds to one another, as occurs between Leah and Rachel. Outside of the tent, men rule society and the families. But inside the tent there are only women, and therefore women make the rules. They share special songs and rites that only the sisters of the tent are privy to. In a story that uncovers the bonds between women, it is fitting that so much of the action occurs in the red tent.
For the full article go to: http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/redtent/themes.html
For the full article go to: http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/redtent/themes.html
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Project Manager!!! Most Wanted Jobs
Jobfox.com ranked project management 12th in its Top 25 most-wanted professions in a March survey tracking more than 4,000 job openings in a 120-day period ending Feb. 28. See this Article posted on PM port.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
MS Project Tips and Tricks
Here is a great site for Project Managers using MS Project for some useful tips and tricks!
http://www.criticaltools.com/Tips.htm
http://www.criticaltools.com/Tips.htm
Monday, February 4, 2008
Have you used Task Freak?
Hey ~ Looking at the Web 2.0 pages I was reminded of one of my favorite tools! Task Freak. It's a wonderful tool for Project Managers and to keep the team moving forward on projects. Once you have this tool, there is absolutely no excuse for any of your team members to miss their deadlines!
http://www.taskfreak.com/
Add it to your repertoire tools! You w.i.l.l. LOVE it!!!
http://www.taskfreak.com/
Add it to your repertoire tools! You w.i.l.l. LOVE it!!!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Top Security Threats of 2008
SANS has released the following information. One of them is social threats and I worked a lot on this aspect of security at AOL and helped deliver weekly presentations and training to AOL's newcomers on Social Engineering that may be conducted through IM, Email or Phone. We even taught the newcomers on how to set secure passwords and how to keep themselves physically safe. It sure was good & exciting times!
http://www.itsecurity.com/features/Top-IT-012308/
http://www.itsecurity.com/features/Top-IT-012308/
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Here is a good lesson for PM's - Don't Assume!
A number of these assumptions have happened to me. Take heed and don't repeat the same mistakes. Take a look at this great article on what not to Assume when you are putting a team together.
http://www.pmi.org/eNews/Post/2008_01-25/TIPS_InSelectingTeamMembersDoNotAssume.html
http://www.pmi.org/eNews/Post/2008_01-25/TIPS_InSelectingTeamMembersDoNotAssume.html
Friday, January 25, 2008
Awesome ways to make LinkedIn work for you
I love LinkedIn. In the recent months it has allowed me to find old friends and stay connected with them. I just love this reconnection and find it comforting that they are all now just an email away. Here are some great ways to make LinkedIn work better for you! Enjoy!
http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2007/01/ten_ways_to_use.html
http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2007/01/ten_ways_to_use.html
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Can you play this game?
Here is a fun tool to test your knowledge of PMBOK's Project Life Cycle! Have fun...
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
How to Write a Cover Letter
This is the one that always stumps me! Here is a great link to remind you what needs to go into that cover letter to set you apart: http://chronicle.com/jobs/2002/06/2002061101c.htm
Going the Extra Mile -- and a half!
Growing up and listening to career advices I always heard "go the extra mile!" I'm listening to Cathie Black "Basic Black: The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life)" And she has a real funny story about going the extra mile (& 1/2) and how to be creative.
I always like to go the extra mile. Whenever I can think of doing so, I'll do it. I wish I could give an example but I can't think of any right now.
Cathie Black became president and publisher of USA Today when everyone had written it off and look where USA today is. I was also fascinated to learn that she persuaded Oprah to launch the O magazine. It seems so simple and a no brainer but not until Cathie had suggested it did anyone think of it.
I highly recommend the book where she demonstrates how any woman can seize opportunity in the work place.
See: http://www.amazon.com/Basic-Black-Essential-Guide-Getting/dp/0307351106/ref=sr_11_1/102-0263796-5381703?ie=UTF8&qid=1187741212&sr=11-1
I always like to go the extra mile. Whenever I can think of doing so, I'll do it. I wish I could give an example but I can't think of any right now.
Cathie Black became president and publisher of USA Today when everyone had written it off and look where USA today is. I was also fascinated to learn that she persuaded Oprah to launch the O magazine. It seems so simple and a no brainer but not until Cathie had suggested it did anyone think of it.
I highly recommend the book where she demonstrates how any woman can seize opportunity in the work place.
See: http://www.amazon.com/Basic-Black-Essential-Guide-Getting/dp/0307351106/ref=sr_11_1/102-0263796-5381703?ie=UTF8&qid=1187741212&sr=11-1
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Taking Care of Yourself as a Brand
Recently, I've come across the idea of branding myself more and more often. I read somewhere that in the 50's the idea was relayed as "Image is Everything" and in the 70's (which I happen to remember) it was called "Dress for Success."
So I'll be in the pursuit of branding myself and discovering what it means and how I can get myself onto the next level. I no longer want people to think of me as just a project manager. I want people to talk positively behind my back and say to each other that She is the following at whatever she touches:
- consistent
- reliable
- a problem solver
I'll also work towards being identified with my company's goals. I believe that would be another great branding to add to myself. That way I will remain unforgettable to my co-workers and my mangement.
Just remember that as in every aspect of one's life, in your career, you must take care of yourself first. We can not rely on the company we work for, or our managers to do it for us. Go ahead and create that "Pick ME!" identity.
I believe, if we all work towards those qualities that we need in a co-worker, manager or subordinate such as: Being reliable, trust-worthy, producing high-quality work, being excellent at what we do and be an expert in our subject matter - you'll acheive that special branding!
So I'll be in the pursuit of branding myself and discovering what it means and how I can get myself onto the next level. I no longer want people to think of me as just a project manager. I want people to talk positively behind my back and say to each other that She is the following at whatever she touches:
- consistent
- reliable
- a problem solver
I'll also work towards being identified with my company's goals. I believe that would be another great branding to add to myself. That way I will remain unforgettable to my co-workers and my mangement.
Just remember that as in every aspect of one's life, in your career, you must take care of yourself first. We can not rely on the company we work for, or our managers to do it for us. Go ahead and create that "Pick ME!" identity.
I believe, if we all work towards those qualities that we need in a co-worker, manager or subordinate such as: Being reliable, trust-worthy, producing high-quality work, being excellent at what we do and be an expert in our subject matter - you'll acheive that special branding!
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