2007: Preparing for Spring

A new season is upon us and new directions take shape as we look forward to the Spring in the dead of Winter. We all know the employment market looks fantastic at this time, for the first time in years; all my clients are getting jobs. This is a time to look for a new job if you are in the market for change, or a chance to get a promotion, and it is always an opportunity to further your skill sets. Here are suggestions for the coming Season.

• Review your resume and update your accomplishments. PAR Problem Action Results. A Qualification Summary/Profile is vital today but make sure that your QS are specific and relevant to the position you are applying for. You need to include job titles that reflect the positions you have held and the skill sets that you can offer for the position you are applying for; such as Special Education Teacher, Reading Specialist, Curriculum Developer - your qualification summary needs to clearly illustrate your skill set, and accomplishments germane to the position you are applying for as well as the value you bring to an organization. No longer is it applicable to just state, “A job in a fast growing company”. You need to use “key words”. Look at my list of tips and check out the web sites I have listed under links. www.bls.gov, www.onetcenter.org, www.acinet.org, www.salary.com will provide you with key words, phrases, requirements, associations, and income level for you to begin your resume preparation.
• I refer folks to the following resume service organizations to identify a professional resume writer: www.nrwa.com (National Resume Writer's Association), www.parw.com (Professional Association of Resume Writers), www.distinctiveweb.com (Distinctive Documents). Michelle Dumas has a proven track record with 10 years of professional service.
• When applying on line, remember your application will only be reviewed for that position. Companies and employers no longer roll over applications for consideration for other openings. This is a result of tracking applicant systems and federal regulations.
• Attend a few courses, workshops, internal training, lectures, and professional conferences this winter to sharpen your professional talents. You can take classes at a Community College, University, Technical School, local Adult Educational Center and even some Internet Courses can give you a leg up. Often the college or university you had graduated from offers on line courses. I recommend that you thoroughly check out the programs authenticity of school on line. www.rileyguide.com, www.bls.gov, www.onetcenter.org, www.acinet.org, www.khake.com, www.careervoyages.gov, offer information about career paths, training, and education requirements. Make sure the classes you attend add value to your “sell”. Don't waste time or money on non-essential courses.
• Volunteer for lateral assignments within your company or organization. Obtain experience through an internship, community service, volunteer work, NGO board work, or project. Offer to give a presentation on a specific topic of interest or value to a group.
• Stay current and keep abreast of current issues, developments, trends, and happenings in your field. Read current journals, look at field specific Internet sites, and print materials. Attend conferences and association meetings. Network with like- minded professionals.
• Network with professional groups; attend networking events, association meetings, alumni events, conferences, family parties, courses, job fairs, and other activities.
• Brush up on your outlook on life. Exercise, develop a hobby, meditate, walk, give to others, state an affirmative every day, and develop a positive viewpoint and smile.

Career Choices can help you find your path and direction during the winter. I focus on understanding yourself and knowing your options. Career Coaching is available by phone or in person. Call or e-mail for an appointment, 617-489-6609 or awcareer@ix.netcom.com.

Yours,