Saturday, April 30, 2011
Career advancement tips
Go one step further
As a professional who wants to advance in his career, you must always be prepared to go an extra mile and do more than the minimum job requirement. This shows that you are enthusiastic and have the desire to learn and progress.
Take initiative
If you want to become successful, you have to be proactive and well prepared to take initiative rather than waiting to be asked to take care of a job.
Keep learning
Even when you have been in the professional field for months and years, you have to keep the learning process going, as there is always the need to update the existing skills that you possess and learning new to keep up with the rest.
Be innovative
Be creative and come up with new ideas and suggestions not only on specific projects, but also for the general benefit of the company.
Accept your mistakes
A successful professional is one who is ready to accept his mistakes and is able to learn from them. If you are stubborn and refuse to admit that you were wrong, there is no room left for growth and development.
Focus on long term goals
Career growth is all about long term goals so instead of focusing on what you are learning and gaining in the short term, pay attention to the long term benefits and gains.
Share your views
You must share your views and ideas in meetings to make a place for yourself. If you keep silent and are reluctant to share views, the seniors perceive you as a laid back person who is not interested in contributing to the team.
Invest in connections
Networking and making connections is the most important part of career growth as the more people you know in your field, the greater are the chances of your success.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Top career change ideas
1. Forget Job Titles
Job titles really inhibit your thinking. If I asked you to list all the jobs you could think of, you might come up with a couple of hundred before you ran dry. In reality there are thousands of jobs out there that you would never identify under your own steam, so forget the job title and focus instead on the key themes that are important for you in a job.
2. List what you dont want to do
This is often quite easy to do if you are in a job you hate and it is a very useful exercise. It helps you focus on the aspects of a job that really drive you nuts and then also pick out those that are annoying in your current job but actually you would be prepared to put up with to some degree in a different situation.
3. List what you think you should want to do
What do you think your career should look like? What pressure are you putting on yourself to confirm to certain expectations. Just check with yourself whose rules you are following here. Who exactly says that your career must look like this?
4. List what you would do if anything were possible
Yes, you are allowed to take the brakes off here and create a big dream. Forget the constraints you put on yourself, wherever they come from.
5. List what you would do if you gave yourself permission to say that you want it
So often, we limit the possibilities in our lives because we just dont allow ourselves to want something. Maybe you want to earn lots of money but that seems too greedy. Maybe you want to have an easy, quiet job - but that seems too lazy. Maybe you want to set up your own business but you cant because you have to think about so many other people in your life first.
6. Reinvent yourself
If you could rewind the tape on your life and re-run it, what would you do? If you could dump all the stuff, the rules, the history that you have gathered on your journey through life to this point and travel light without the baggage, where would your journey take you? What would the new you look like and what work would this new person be doing?
7. Think big and think small
Your new career does not have to be something world changing and grand. If you want to change the world, great! Go ahead and build your new career around this big vision. But if you feel drawn to operating on a more local scale, thats fine too. Small changes can be just as transforming for your career and your life as big ones, so dont be fooled into thinking that bigger is necessarily better. Career change success is about finding what feels right for you.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Top Interview Tips

Before the Interview
Review the job duties included in the Vacancy Notice.
Research the department.
Dress professionally. Don’t wear perfume or cologne.
Bring extra copies of your resume.
Bring a pen and paper to write down any information you might need to remember.
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer.
Prepare answers to any questions you think you might be asked (see sample questions below).
At the Interview
Arrive on time. Try to be a few minutes early if possible.
Try to relax. Be yourself.
Show self-confidence – make eye contact; answer questions in a clear voice.
Remember to listen.
Think before answering questions. Try to make your answers as clear as possible.
Avoid negative body language – crossing your arms, swinging your foot or leg, slouching, covering your mouth while speaking.
When given a chance, ask any questions that you have prepared in advance. You can also follow up on anything that the interviewer tells you during the interview.
After the Interview
End the interview with a handshake and thank the interviewer for his or her time.
Find out when the department plans to make a hiring decision.
Follow up with a short “thank you for the interview” note.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Top career advancement tips

Career advancement starts from the very first job you pursue, as you get more exposure towards work you are ready to face more challenges.
An individual must posses an established position in the work place, as it is one of the vital tools for advancement in career.
Have a chat with your boss regarding your performance and promotion in the company, this will let you know where you stand at your present work place.
People concerned about career advancement should always have ability to achieve higher learning goals, gaining knowledgeable skills and should be updated with the latest trend in the industry.
Be an effective listener as well as a clear communicator, as this will help an individual to influence others and achieve goals in his career.
If you additionally wish to work for some other department of your business let your employer know your desire to work for those as well along with your current business line. Proper action taken at right time helps an individual to achieve their goals.
Build a strong relation with your colleagues, as this will help you to know about your weaknesses and strengths at your work place.
Every firm seeks the best employee in the industry, and for being the best there should be abundant of innovative ideas and an intellectual thinking. So train your intellect for new ideas and innovations.
Also individuals with more experience and few skills have more chances for advancement, so learn from all your jobs. Each job will teach you something and the gain will be beneficial for your career advancement.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
career change planning

A career change is a move that should be thought of in all seriousness. Before making the decision, you need to find out if you're fit for a career change. Ask yourself these questions.
Are you finished soul searching?
Quitting "unprepared" will only lead to a disaster. Before you throw in the towel, look for industries that match your personal passions. And then find out whether these industries are actually hiring.
Can you consider yourself "better" than most job hunters?
Experience is not enough in today's job search. Figure out the skills that you need to be qualified for the new job that you want. Then try to attend as much seminars as you can. You might want to get a new degree too.
Is your network enough to get you moving?
We've always been saying that networking can do wonders in job search. When the going gets tough in your job hunting, your contacts will be the ones to keep your optimism intact as they can provide you first-hand job leads.
Lastly, are you prepared for the stress?
Chances are it has been a long time since you've been on a job hunt and the present situation of the job market may surprise you a bit. Always remember to look at things in a positive light and don't let your ego get in the way.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Career advancement Tips

Here's a list of the top 10 tips you can use to advance your career:
Don't be afraid to say "I don't know."
If you don't know something, say so; don't try to fake it.
Take responsibility for your actions
If you're at fault, admit it and take the blame. If you're wrong, apologize.
Never gossip
Gossip can hurt the careers of two people the person being talked about, and the person doing the talking.
Never say "That's not my job."
Don't think you are above anything. Pitch in and set a good example, especially if the job is one that nobody else wants to do. Your willingness to do so will be noticed and appreciated!
Share the credit
People who share credit with others make a much better impression than those who take all the credit themselves.
Ask for help when you need it
Don't let a difficult task get out of hand. When you need help, ask for it -- before things get worse.
Keep your dislike to yourself
If you don't like someone, don't let it show. Never burn bridges or offend others as you move ahead in your career.
Don't hold grudges
Life isn't always fair. If you were passed over for promotion, didn't get the project you wanted, etc., let it go. Be gracious and diplomatic, focus on the future and move on. Harboring grudges won't advance your career.
Be humble
When you're right, don't gloat about it. Never say "I told you so!"
Make others feel important
Compliment others, emphasize their strengths and contributions, and help them whenever you can. They will enthusiasitcally help you in return.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
10 Tips on Career Advancement

Here are 10 proven strategies to help you get started:
Talk to your boss
Sit down and have a very direct and pointed conversation with your boss about your future in the company. Stress that you want your job performance to meet the company’s goals. Share your own career goals with him or her.
Ask for more
Volunteering to help out other departments or teams — or simply asking for more responsibilities — increases your value within the organization. Asking for additional work shows an interest and desire to help your department and company to succeed.
Volunteer for boards
If you have your career set on something beyond what you are doing in your present position, seek out opportunities to volunteer or serve on advisory boards, where you can build a reputation as someone who is passionate and dedicated to your particular industry.
Sharpen your people skills
Strong interpersonal skills play a crucial role in gaining the respect of your boss and coworkers; they will also attract the notice of outside influencers who might open new doors of opportunity for you.
Be innovative
Never be afraid to think outside of the box and put your business acumen to work. Stay on the lookout for creative solutions to problems that will make you — and your boss — look good.
Find a mentor
Develop mentoring relationships, either inside or outside the company. Recent studies have shown that four out of five promotions are influenced by a mentor higher up in the company.
Sell yourself
Learn the fine art of self-promotion. If you have had major accomplishments or created successful programs, make sure people know about it — especially those in influential positions who could help you advance professionally.
Keep learning
A proven way to advance in your career is to be continually acquiring new knowledge. Stay on top of trends or developments in your field and make sure that your current résumé reflects those needed skills.
Network
Strengthen your personal network and join professional organizations, attend industry conferences, or even volunteer. The more people who are aware of your strengths and abilities, the better your chances of hearing about any new opportunities that might arise.
Build your reputation
In business, your reputation is the most valuable thing you own. Be known for being dependable, professional, and cooperative. Act and look the part by dressing professionally. Make a name for yourself by attending conferences, delivering speeches, or writing articles.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Tips to making a career change

Career Change
Most often we get so frustrated with the routine of what we do daily, and want to quit the job. When you stop enjoy what you daily and it start feeling like punishment and no longer pleasurable, then it looks like you would need a change of profession. Don’t be in a hurry to take this decision; you need time to properly evaluate the situation.
Why Do I Want To Change My Career?
You need to be plain about the answer you give to this question because it would determine a lot. You need to ask yourself. What is the cogent reason I would want to do something else from what I am doing currently.
Do I Really Want A Career Change?
you have to think about this very well, because making a total turn around is going to cost you, hope you know that? So you have to be sure that you really want to change.
What Kind Of Job Would I Be Happy Doing?
Determine the kind of work you would like to do, if eventually you end up changing your career.
What Are My Marketable Skills And Capabilities?
write down all your skills, both interpersonal and organizational skills, and evaluate this and determine if they fit into the new career path that you are opting for.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Top 4 Career change tips

New Job vs. Career Change
First, ask yourself if your job blues revolve around external situations at your current workplace or an overall dislike of your profession. There are many reasons for job dissatisfaction that do not necessarily warrant a career change
Choosing a New Career
If you’ve come to the conclusion that a career makeover is in order, not just a new job, you are not alone. If you’re not sure exactly where your heart is leading you there are many resources that can help take the guesswork out of career change.
Smooth Career Transitioning
The thoughtful approach is to test the waters before diving headfirst into a new career. Volunteer, moonlight, work weekends – get some exposure to your new calling before taking the plunge.
Small Steps Toward Career Fulfillment
Inertia might be the biggest stumbling block to those longing to change careers. It’s all too easy to stay with the status quo, especially if your situation doesn't fall into the "completely intolerable" category yet.
Monday, April 04, 2011
5 Tips to Secure Your Career Future

Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Interview Preparation & Rules

Communication Skills: while communicating with interviewer you must be confident , making eye contact, firm handshake.
Confidence: As confidence is the key to cross every barrier of life.
Listen: Before the interview your interviewer give information, you must hear it carefully, otherwise you may lose some important points.
Dress Properly: your dress makes the first impression, so be wear some formal clothes or a business suit.
Use Proper Language: Use proper professional language during the interview. Don't use any inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics or sexual orientation.
Talk up to the point: Telling the interviewer more than he want to know could be a fatal mistake. Answer only those question what he asked, reply up to point.
Interview Rules
Puntuality: Be on time for your interview. If possible reach the venue 15 to 20 min before the schedule time.
Research: Research about the company before going for interview. You must know about the services, work culture, clients, domains ,products, customes, about CEO of company etc.
Enthusiasm: when you enter in the room, handshake with the interviewer and eye contact describe your confidence.
Prepared: Bring all the copies of your certificates, extra copies of your resume. You should also have questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
7-Top Interview Tips

1: Plan Ahead
Do a little homework! Research the company and the position if possible, as well, the people you will meet with at the interview.
2: Role Play
Once you have finished studying, begin role playing. Use the general questions provided below in the Interview Preparation Area. Write down answers if it helps to make your presentation more concise.
3: Eye Contact
Maintain eye contact with your interviewer. Show you want the job with your interest.
4: Be Positive
In particular, avoid negative comments about past employers.
5: Adapt
Listen and adapt. Be sensitive to the style of the interviewer. Pay attention to those details of dress, office furniture, and general decor which will afford helpful clues to assist you in tailoring your presentation.
6: Relate
Try to relate your answers to the interviewer and his or her company.
7: Encourage
Encourage the interviewer to share information about his or her company. Demonstrate your interest.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
10 steps plan to career changes
1: Assessment of Likes and Dislikes
Many people change their careers because they dislike job and company. So, identifying the dislikes is often the easier part of this step; however, you will not know what direction to change your career unless you examine your likes.
Once you've discovered your passion, spend some time researching the types of careers that center around your passions. Don't worry if you're feeling a bit unsure or insecure -- it's a natural part of the career change process.
3: Transferable Skills
Leverage some of your current skills and experiences to your new career. There are many skills that are transferable and applicable to what you want to do in your new career. You may be surprised to see that you already have a solid amount of experience for your new career.
4: Training and Education
You may find it necessary to update your skills and broaden your knowledge. Take it slowly. If the skill you need to learn is one you could use in your current job, see if your current employer would be willing to pick up the tab.
5: Networking
One of the real keys to successfully changing careers will be your networking abilities. People in your network may be able to give you job leads, offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry, and introduce you to others so that you can expand your network.
6: Gaining Experience
Remember that you are starting your career again from square one. Obtaining a part-time job or volunteering in your new career field not only can solidify your decision, but give you much needed experience in your new career.
7: Find a Mentor
Changing careers is a major life decision that can get overwhelming at times. Find a mentor who can help you through the rough patches. Your mentor may also be able to help you by taking advantage of his or her network.
8: Changing In or Out
Some people change careers, but never change employers. Unfortunately, only the very progressive employers recognize that once happy employees can be happy and productive again - in a different capacity. It's more than likely that you will need to switch employers to change fields, but don't overlook your current employer.
9: Job-Hunting Basics
If it's been a while since you've had to use your job-hunting tools and skills, now is the time for a refresher course.
10: Be Flexible
You'll need to be flexible about nearly everything - from your employment status to relocation and salary. Set positive goals for yourself, but expect setbacks and change - and don't let these things get you down.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Top 10 Interview Tips

1. Prepare and over-prepare
Preparation should be done in such a way that you have thorough knowledge of the organization plus you should be able to answer all questions regarding the position related to that interview.
2. If you don’t know admit it
If at anytime during the interview you are faced with a dilemma of not knowing something then don’t hesitate in admitting the same. You could also ask the recruiter to rephrase the question for you again and yet if you remain unsure of your reply you will be better of admitting that you do not know the answer. After all not everyone is a genius to know every answer.
3. Make sure your responses match your claims
It is quite common that you could have had some kind of on job training during your previous job, or you could have taken extra coursework to qualify for a particular position. Your resume would reflect that surely and the license or certification will be there as well. While speaking about such a qualification do not overstate the facts but just subtly build upon it as your strength.
4. Speak about your strengths with confidence
The interviewers will certainly discuss with you about your weaknesses & strengths. Thus it is of great importance that you not only know about your strengths but are also able to emphasize such strengths that can have an impact on the job you have applied for. Do not rush through at all as this is your chance to create a massive impression.
5. How best to describe your weakness as strengths
This is tricky, so let's think about why the question is asked. The interviewer probably wants to learn several things about you with this question, such as: whether or not you are arrogant ("I really don't think I have any weaknesses"), whether you know yourself ("Well, I've never really thought about that"), and finally, what you are doing to eliminate your weaknesses.
6. Speak Softly
During your interview you must approach a conversation or answer by speaking slowly and softly than you usually do. If you are heard well means your words are getting across clearly.
7. Speak about your aim and display enthusiasm
The exact response depends upon the specifics of your job hunting campaign, but the principle is: be specific while allowing yourself the flexibility which suggests that you understand the complexities of the business you're applying for.
8. Be Friendly
You might be very cordial and exceptionally bright but if you cannot gel with the others as a team then you might become a loner. Also during the interview do not attempt to get to friendly with the interviewer; he might want you to leave in a hurry.
9. You would like to interview the interviewer
Some unknown conditions might warrant a few applicants to settle for anything offered then they aren’t going to get the best jobs either. Good and foresighted interviewers shall respect your knowledge about the organization and the prized attached to such a job.
10. End on a positive note.
In case of the interview not turning out to be the way you planned it, leave the place on a positive note. Convey your thanks to the panel & that you look forward to hearing from them soon. Another positive thing you can say that its was a challenging but rewarding day. Make eye contact panel members and shake hands as well. This will create a good impression against if you leave without saying a word.
