© Written By Jimmy Sweeney
Author of the brand new, Amazing Cover Letter Creator

Want to draw attention to your cover letter?

So much so that the hiring manager can’t put it down?

Here ’s the secret.

Meet the employer’s needs. Show him or her how you, the job seeker, can benefit his or her company––if you’re hired to fill the open position.

For example:

I found out through my friend, Rob Johnson, your company CPA, that you are interested in hiring someone to expand your sales territory in the northwest by garnering new customers prior to the release of your new math textbook for junior high school students, Mathematics for the 21st Century. I’d love to take on this challenge, as I have a master’s degree in Mathematics as well as experience in sales. I opened ten new accounts in less than six months while employed by Babcock and Taylor Text-book Company in Florida.

I’d welcome getting together with you in person to talk about how your priorities for this position and my expertise can come together to benefit your company.

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself. I’m enthusiastic about meeting in person to see the possibilities of filling this particular opening at your company.

I will follow up with a phone call by the end of the week. You can contact me by phone or email as well. I am available for an interview most afternoons at your convenience. Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Sure-fire Success

When it comes to cover letters, this example, which you can tailor to the specific organization you’re writing to, cannot be ignored. Everyone wants to succeed. You want to receive an interview that leads to a job. And the hiring manager wants to interview a man or woman who fits the position now available. If you demonstrate how you can meet that need, you will be called for an interview.

REMEMBER: Hiring managers need you to do their job. They must hire people to fill the openings at their company. Make them look good by showing them the benefits you can bring in a friendly and professional manner.

Let your cover letter work for you, not against you. Don’t be afraid to ASK for what you want and remember to focus on what the employer needs. In turn, he or she will give you what you want—an interview for a new job.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

cover letters in 3 1/2 minutes - click the image for details

Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new, “Amazing Cover Letter Creator.” Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, “Job Search Secrets.”

Visit our friends at Amazing Cover Letters for your “instant” cover letter today. “In just 3½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!”

The Secret to Writing a ‘Must-Read’ Cover Letter! is a post from: Free Career Advice

© Written By Jimmy Sweeney
Author of the brand new, Amazing Cover Letter Creator

Have you ever heard or read a quotation you just had to share with someone? How about one of these?

“Plan your work for today and every day, then work your plan.” Norman Vincent Peale

“Real success is finding your lifework in the work that you love.” David McCullough

“Success depends on your backbone, not your wishbone.” Unknown Author

Each one provides good advice as well as inspiration. Consider including an appropriate quotation in your cover letter. It will pack a punch, give the hiring manager something fresh and motivating to read, and elevate you in his or her mind. Cover letters that offer more than simply a list of job skills, will rise to the top of the pile. Managers will notice such a person and want to call you in for an interview.

How to weave a great quotation into your letter.

Suppose you are applying for a position as a sales manager for a book publishing firm. You thank the hiring manager for the opportunity to introduce yourself, let him or her know where you found out about the opening and the good things you read or heard about the company, why you believe you’re a good fit for the position, and of course something about your previous employment. Add a sentence that asks the employer to look at your enclosed resume for further details. Next, start a new paragraph with a snappy, insightful quotation.

Example: “Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means.” (Albert Einstein)

Then add a sentence showing how you will do just that—set an example for the people you manage. Example: You can count on me to live these inspiring words. I know the importance of influencing people for good and that is what I want to be known for. I’d welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person so you can judge for yourself.

When it comes to cover letters, it is essential to make a strong, first impression. You can do that with a great quote from someone known and respected in the field you are aspiring to.

Imagine the results you’ll experience in your job search when your cover letter includes not only details about your abilities but also insight into who you are as a person? A prospective employer will actually be excited to meet you, to discuss the job, and to hand it over to you!  Potential employees who show creativity and color in their communication are a gift to any company.

So, include a strong, inspirational quotation to your next cover letter and then get ready for the phone to ring!

_________________________________________________________________________

Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new, “Amazing Cover Letter Creator.” Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, “Job Search Secrets.”

Visit our friends at Amazing Cover Letters for your “instant” cover letter today. “In just 3½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!”

“Season” Your Cover Letter With A Great Quote! is a post from: Free Career Advice

By Michael Lee

Searching for an effective cover letter format? Then look no further. In this article, I’ll reveal some excellent cover letter format guidelines that you can apply immediately in your job hunting pursuits.

A winning cover letter generally consist of three parts which amount up to three paragraphs.

In the first paragraph, you will detail why you are writing the company. This will provide context to your intentions for writing the company, which is to apply for a new job. Also, try to provide clues as to where you found out about the job posting and what got you interested in applying.

The second paragraph serves as the gist of your cover letter. Here is where you explain what you can offer and what skills matched the job requirement. If you have other skills or achievements, make sure to point them out by referring to your resume. Make sure you can convince them to read your resume.

The third and last paragraph provides means to follow up your application. You can slightly review what you have previously mentioned in the letter to provide more emphasis. You can also provide means for contacting you in case you are considered in the next phase of the application process.

More Cover Letter Format Guidelines:

1. Keep it brief and precise. Avoid exceeding one page.

2. Proofread your cover letter before submitting to ensure it is concise and written in a professional manner.

3. Check for grammar or typo errors.

4. Make sure you know what you are applying for so you can defend your claims in the cover letter during the interview.

5. Always end your letter professionally. As much as you try to learn how to write a winning cover letter, hiring managers also put a lot of weight on your level of professionalism.

Hope these cover letter format guidelines help you land your dream job. Best of luck to you and happy job hunting!

Resource Box:
Want to get your dream job? Discover how to write a cover letter that grabs attention like a magnet, and secrets of preparing for a job interview that gets you hired on the spot!

Cover Letter Format: Guidelines To Writing A Persuasive Cover Letter is a post from: Free Career Advice

By Michael Lee
Knowing how to write a winning cover letter takes you a big step further towards your dream job. After all, it is what convinces your potential employer to look into your resume, and try to find out more information, that would help them decide whether to hire you or not.

This task may seem rather challenging, but it’s really very simple. Here’s how you can get the job you desire.

Establishing A Goal

Before you become too consumed about how to write a winning cover letter, you need to understand this is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the company. Selling yourself comes shortly after; so you must not be too aggressive, but you also need to be affirmative.

The objective or goal for writing a cover letter is already determined. However, the idea of establishing a goal here is to be able to persuade your potential employer such that they will realize your potential to help the company succeed.

What part of your resume do you want to highlight? Make sure that you provide a glimpse of that in your cover letter, so your recruiters will have a decent idea on what you can offer.

Even if you have an impressive resume, if you cannot let that show through your cover letter, they will not be convinced to let you proceed onto the next phase of the application.

Important Elements Of A Cover Letter

One of the vital factors on how to write a winning cover letter for a certain job posting is to do research about the company you are applying for. Therefore, you become aware of the company’s needs.

Most employers nowadays look closely at skills and what each employee can offer the company. Therefore, you can tailor your cover letter to appeal to the company’s needs and this will enable you to stand out from other applicants.

Make sure to make reference to your resume in your cover letter. This is crucial when you have an impressive resume, since it creates awareness of your previous educational or job accomplishments.

When writing your cover letter, you need to address your employer properly by using a professional salutation.

Mention where you saw the job posting on your cover letter as well. Then slightly discuss how your skills are able to match the job requirements, and what else you can offer the company for that particular job position.

Knowing how to write a winning cover letter doesn’t take rocket science. As long as you have the desire and skills for the job, you can attain your dream career.

How To Write A Winning Cover Letter And Land Your Dream Job is a post from: Free Career Advice

Just when you thought the job market couldn’t get worse, there is more news about company pink slips, hiring freezes, and benefit slashes. If you are one of the thousands tasked to find a job in these dire economic times, all is not lost. Hopefully, you can move more quickly from the unemployment line to a job offer once you get past these six common myths about job-hunting during a recession.

Myth 1: No one is hiring.
Layoffs are coming in every direction, but some employers — even those laying off workers — are still hiring. Companies often eliminate full-time employees with budget-busting benefits only to replace them with contractors or consultants to save costs. Additionally, “green” jobs, and health care jobs are among those still actively populating want ads. And, the pay is respectable. For instance, Payscale.com shows the median annual salary of an environmental engineer with 3-5 years experience is $60,672.

Myth 2: The Internet is the best place to find jobs.
The Internet is an efficient way to survey jobs among many companies, but personal interaction is still key to job search success. Truth is, employers are bombarded with thousands of resumes from the Internet — especially in a recession. Therefore, the chance that your new boss will choose your resume out of a pile of prospects is slimmer than ever. Instead, focus on finding a position, apply for it, and then do some research and connect personally with a hiring manager in the company to follow-up. Social networking sites, such as LinkedIn, also offer a great way to connect with targeted employees on your company dream list. These connections are golden because they can give you insider info about unpublished positions and help you sail past HR “blockers.” Personal recommendations go much farther in landing a job than random resumes.

Myth 3: Searching companies in hiring freezes is a waste of time.
Like many situations in life, hiring freezes are not absolute. Savvy networking, the right face-to-face meeting, and the ability to sell skills critical to the prospective company can be the perfect formula for lighting a fire under an employer in a hiring freeze. Behind closed doors, hiring managers are told to make exceptions for spectacular candidates that can show them the money, especially in a recession when every dollar counts.

Myth 4: Expect a salary cut.
In hard times, companies value astute problem-solvers more than ever. While employers may trim the fat elsewhere, there is always room in the budget for top-tier talent. However, during a competitive job market, there is a bigger burden to prove you are worth a higher salary, says John Challenger, CEO of Challenger, Gray & Christmas. Ultimately, companies want their talent investments to pay off — and stick around. “If an employer goes to the expense, time, and effort to find a qualified candidate, it wants the person to stay, ” Challenger adds. The last thing an employer wants is for a prized candidate to temporarily accept a lower salary than her previous salary and say “hasta la vista” once the job market recovers.

Myth 5: Companies are not interested in hiring people over age 55.
There are several reasons Challenger, Gray & Christmas disputes the adage that older employees are unemployable. In a struggling economy, employers value seasoned workers’ shorter learning curves (aka: less money invested in employee training) and their ability to do the work of several younger, less-seasoned workers. Separately, like a fine wine, experienced employees who are surgeons, accountants, attorneys, engineers, and IT professionals get better with time. Clients gravitate to more experienced employees in these professions. This adds up to more cha-ching for employers.

Myth 6: Experience and advanced degrees guarantee a job.
While experience and education have their plusses, they aren’t guarantees to landing a job. In a deep recession, experienced and degreed people come a dime a dozen. “It is very important to sell your world experience, your concrete accomplishments, and expertise; things that make an impact on the company rather than just your knowledge,” Challenger says. Research what skills the employer values most in order to tailor your sales pitch accordingly, Challenger adds. And, because the market is so tight, though you are experienced, someone with more experience is likely applying for the same job. Take time to create your brand image and sell, sell, sell!

6 Myths About Job-Hunting in a Recession is a post from: Free Career Advice

How marketable are you? Are you using a sound career strategy to keep fit for today’s fluctuating marketplace?

Whether you’re looking for work or wanting to hold on to the job you have, maintaining your marketability for the long term requires that you continually invest in yourself. You are the product you’re selling, but you must be proactive to remain competitive. Here are five ingredients for a winning strategy: work that serves your goals, lifelong learning, staying current with your skills and industry knowledge, networking, and maintaining balance.

Use this checklist to test your marketability. If you find any areas wanting, use your answers to create an action plan to improve them.

1. My current employment serves my goals.
Measure your current or prospective situation against short- and long-term goals. Aside from financial reward, do you gain in these ways:

• Do my responsibilities sync with my strongest capabilities?
• Am I developing relevant skills and meeting the right people?
• Is there room to grow? Or is this a good stepping stone?

Tip: Maximize your experience by looking for opportunities to increase your value within your company.

2. My education, certification, and training are current.
Lifelong learning is the key to staying marketable. Prepare for varied options.

• Do I need a degree or certification to keep up with my present employment, get promoted, or land a new job?
• Do I regularly attend professional association meetings, workshops, seminars, and continuing education classes?

Tip: To find programs, start with local educational institutions. Explore CareerOneStop, a site rich in resources for job seekers.

3. My skills and industry knowledge are up to date.
Staying current is a prerequisite for ongoing employment. Could you qualify for an equivalent position with a competitor — or do you readily qualify for the upgrade you seek? If not, what do you need to do?

• Am I technically proficient in the latest software?
• Do I know my industry’s trends and major players?
• Do I read trade publications and industry blogs? Join discussion groups?

Tip: Check current requirements by reading employer posts on job boards (Yahoo! HotJobs) and company sites.

4. My networking and communication activities are constant.
Strategic networking helps cultivate mutually beneficial business relationships. Word-of-mouth is the most powerful tool to gain opportunities and referrals.

• Do I routinely develop new contacts, nurture existing ones?
• Do I meet in person with people most important to me rather than relying on email threads?
• Do I make weekly connections through online groups and social networking (Yahoo! Groups, LinkedIn)?

Tip: Networking is about quality, not quantity. It’s about being a helpful resource, a relationship builder.

5. My life and work are in balance.
Long-term marketability relies on a healthy balance between life and work — emotionally, physically, intellectually, financially, and spiritually.

• Do I follow sound self-care practices?
• Do I give equal attention to relationships and work?

Tip: Difficult to do, but maintaining balance and perspective are key to surviving and thriving.

How did you do? Is there room for improvement? Follow up with an action plan targeting areas you find wanting. Set short- and long-term goals with specific tasks and a timeline to get you there. Managing your career proactively will keep you marketable: Your livelihood depends on it.

Copyright 2009 Marty Silberstein, owner of Night Owl Companion Publishing, resources that help with “the stuff that keeps you up at night,” including finding your right work, how to do a strategic job search, and how to re-enter the workplace.

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-5_ways_to_test_your_marketability-785

5 Ways to Test Your Marketability is a post from: Free Career Advice

In the current unstable job environment, with daily announcements of layoffs even by historically stable companies, it is more important than ever that you have a positive relationship with your boss and others in the organization who will be making the decision of who goes and who stays. It may seem unfair, but many times the decision comes down to who is felt to be the better “team player,” or simply who is better liked.

So, here is a key to putting yourself in the best possible position when and if it comes to that point. I call it the “Secret of 4,” which I learned personally through the school of hard-won experience but later discovered it explained by Dr. David Keirsey, author of the bestselling books “Please Understand Me” and “Please Understand Me II.”

According to Dr. Keirsey, a renowned psychologist who has spent 60 years observing people and organizations, there are 4 basic temperaments that categorize people (think Harry Potter and the Hogwarts Sorting Hat):

- Guardians are practical and down-to-earth, believe in following the rules and cooperating with others. They believe in the long run that loyalty, discipline, and teamwork get the job done right. They take pride in being dependable and trustworthy, and expect their subordinates to meet their commitments while respecting the value of their rank and experience. They do not “rock the boat,” and “questioning authority” is insubordination. Questioning their orders or breaking the rules, even in private — but especially in public — is likely to land you on the bottom of the “must keep” list.

- Artisans are highly pragmatic and value outcomes more than a strict abiding by the rules. They tend to have high energy and great adaptability, and usually prefer being active to sitting still. They enjoy the adrenaline high that comes with “pulling off a miracle at the last minute,” and are expert at calculated risk-taking. They are frustrated by employees who resist or are fearful of doing things differently — exactly the opposite of the “follow the rules” dictum of the Guardian boss.

- Idealists see the workplace as an arena for interdependent labor. They value harmony on their team and with other departments. They enjoy helping employees learn new skills and value those that continually “grow in their jobs.” Of the 4 types of bosses, they are the most likely to develop personal relationships with their employees. They are highly averse to, and dislike those they see as fostering, conflict. Creating personal friction, anywhere in the organization, is a ticket to the bottom of the list with these bosses.

- Rationals value competence above all — both in themselves and in employees who report to them. They value original and innovative ideas, and are often oblivious to “rank” or “experience.” They expect employees to be accurate in what they say and are not overly concerned with conflict or ruffling feathers . They become frustrated by employees who are unable to work independently, show initiative, or seem to be incompetent. Not having data to back decisions when challenged, or not challenging that status quo if you do have the data, will make you the least valuable person to retain with this type of boss.

So, in order to create the best possible relationship with your boss before that potential day of reckoning, you will have a decided advantage if you can determine his or her temperament (and his or her boss’s) and modify your behavior accordingly.

As you can see from the descriptions above, the same behavior that makes you indispensible with one type can easily make you most dispensable with the others. In the current environment of employee layoffs, every edge you give yourself increases the likelihood that you will be one of those who stick around.

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-key_traits_to_look_for_in_your_boss-787

Key Traits to Look for in Your Boss is a post from: Free Career Advice

In the turbulent, toss-about world of work in America, all kinds of people are worried about getting fired. Who among us hasn’t seen a helpful, smart, hard-working person get laid off? Being let go is not for last-place performers anymore. Everyone is at risk.

Can you avoid the pink slip? You can sure try. While no one may guarantee you a gig these days, here are five expert tips on making yourself indispensable.

1. Talk Directly to Your Manager

Lay it all out on the table and sincerely ask for advice from your boss about your situation. You’re not asking them to butter you up or paint a rosy picture. You’re asking for the truth.

Ron Mitchell, career coach and founder and CEO of New York City-based Gotta Mentor, advises, “You should take control of this process. In this meeting you should ask two questions. First, what can I improve upon? Second, what additional things can I do to help you do your job better?”

Is it kissing boss booty? Maybe a bit, but your manager is likely under a lot of stress, too, so finding ways to help them and make them look better means you’re less likely to be sent packing.

2. Learn Other People’s Jobs

It sounds calculating, but it’s true. If you can do the work of two, you have a better chance of out-staying your peers. As with any worthwhile fitness program, you must cross-train for greater strength and resiliency. Sean Ebner, regional vice president of the IT outplacement firm Technisource, emphasizes why this productivity makes a difference, saying, “Make it so that two people would have to replace your work effort, not just half of a person.”

And, once you pick up some new skills or strengthen old ones, let people know. Executive coach Peggy Klaus says, “Connect the dots for people and show them how your strengths can be utilized in other departments, capacities, or fields.”

3. Be Profitable

If you’re not clear how your work either makes the company money or cuts costs — or both — you’d be wise to figure that out soon. If you need help, talk to trusted friends, coworkers and even your boss. Letting your boss know that you’re trying to improve your contribution to the bottom line can’t hurt. Plus, it’s a reminder of how essential you are.

Klaus says, “Be certain that the results you are focusing on and producing are the ones your boss and company value most. Translation: efficiency, cost-cutting and revenue.”

4. Toot Your Own Horn — Loudly!

No one appreciates arrogance, but staying quiet about your contributions isn’t wise right now. Whatever you do to move the company forward — stay late to complete a project, have a great call with a client, train someone else in a new skill or improve your output — make sure that your boss knows about it. Your resourcefulness and willingness to work hard are attributes most managers want to keep in-house.

John M McKee, founder and CEO of BusinessSuccessCoach.net, says “Successful professionals don’t wait to get noticed while they toil away on a project.”
5. Rise Up and Take Command

Amidst the devastation that layoffs leave behind, you have a unique opportunity to collect the remaining pieces and move quickly into management. As Allison Hemming, founder of The Hired Guns talent agency, says, “Be the phoenix. This could be your opportunity to rise to the top.” She recommends that when departments are combined, “Take advantage of a re-shuffled deck. Management will be looking for new leaders to prevail.”

Plus, that way, when the company is back on its feet, you’ll be a time-tested veteran who helped lead everyone through the worst of times. Your job could be more secure and well-paid than ever.

Some Layoffs Simply Are Inevitable

All advice aside, don’t be too hard on yourself. Many experts agree that you can only do so much to protect yourself from a layoff. Sometimes, even your best won’t be enough.

Ron Mitchell reminds you to chin up and stand proud should that moment come. “One thing this current job environment has taught us is that no one is immune to layoffs. Companies have for the past few rounds of layoffs been cutting bone not fat. They are laying off people that have been doing a good job.”

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-keep_your_job_5_ways_to_be_indispensable-788

Keep Your Job: 5 Ways to Be Indispensable is a post from: Free Career Advice

Losing your job can be earth shattering — especially when you’ve put years into your job. If you’ve just been laid off, you have exactly one week to mope around your house in your pajamas and eat ice cream for breakfast. Then, once that’s out of your system, get it together and make a plan.

Heading back to school is a good option during a recession. Here are four reasons why:

• It’s a chance to enhance your skill set or totally retool your career.
• It’s a great resume bridge when hiring is down and finding another job is difficult at best.
• It’s a way to buoy your self-esteem, which just took a pink-slip-sized beating.
• It’s a pathway to new connections and networking opportunities — priceless commodities during your job search.

The federal government is encouraging continuing education through grants and loans. Online education is making it more convenient and, yes, more affordable than ever. Here are a few programs that can get you back on track in two years or less.

Paralegal Certification

Paralegals have long been an integral part of the legal system. Working on behalf of law firms, government, and corporations, they perform many of the same functions as lawyers — doing legal research, drafting legal briefs or contracts, and preparing tax returns. There are a few exceptions. Paralegals can’t offer legal advice or argue a case in court. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for a paralegal is $44,990. The top 10 percent earn $71,480.

If you already have your bachelor’s degree, you can earn a paralegal certification program in 18 months to two years. Many programs include internships — an excellent way to get experience in a law firm and begin to make connections for your future job search. Some programs provide job counseling for their graduates — another excellent perk.

Dental Hygienist Training

There is more to this gig than a cleaning. Dental hygienists help people stay healthy by providing preventive care, teaching about good oral health, and looking out for gum disease. BLS reports median salaries in 2007 were $64,740. But that’s not all there is to love. Many dental hygienists find flexible scheduling to be a real upside of this career.

The most common path to becoming a hygienist is through a two-year training program where you’ll earn your associate’s degree or certification. Once you’re done, job prospects should be excellent.

Veterinary Technician Degree

Cats and careers have more than one life. Animal lovers might find their second (or third or fourth) career life working as a veterinary technician. Vet techs provide medical care for large and small animals, livestock and pets, and even wildlife. In 2007, median salaries were $27,970, while the top 10 percent earned $40,550. Perhaps the best part is the stability of this profession. BLS says that even during an economic recession, layoffs are less likely for vet techs than for others because the need for animal care doesn’t go away.

In two years, you can earn your associate’s degree in veterinary technology. And while some clinical work is essential, there are opportunities to take courses online.

Master’s of Business Administration

How can you turn your layoff into your golden opportunity? Breaking into management can take years. A master’s degree can speed up your path to the corner office. MBA programs come in all sizes — online, traditional, and one- or two-year programs.

It’s important to understand that the days of six-figure signing bonuses for MBAs are probably on hold for the time being. But, if you can live with the potential of a significant pay raise, it’s a path to consider. Look at some median management salaries from BLS:

• Marketing Managers = $104,400
• Sales Managers = $94,910
• Financial Managers = $95,310
• Chief Executives = over $150,000

Fast-Track Teacher Certification

Have you often thought of becoming a teacher? For some years now, a major teaching shortage has made it easier for people already working in another profession to fulfill their chalkboard dreams. Teaching certification programs can be as short as nine weeks — one semester or summer. Others last as long as two years. There is one catch. To get in on the fast track, you must have your bachelor’s degree.

Median salaries for teachers range from $45,120 for kindergarten to $50,090 for secondary school vocational teachers. Many teachers also take on jobs during the summer break to supplement their salaries.

Hey, job loss can happen to the best of us. The most important thing to remember is not to take it personally. It’s not you — it’s just a crummy economy. Now, get back to work.

Lila Daniels is a freelance writer living in Vermont.

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-5_fast_fixes_to_get_your_career_back_on_track-790

5 Fast Fixes To Get Your Career Back On Track is a post from: Free Career Advice

It’s a most undesirable group: the unemployed. Job losses in 2008 totaled 2.6 million, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In December 2008 alone, the unemployment rate rose from 6.8 to 7.2 percent. Don’t want to become a statistic? Get educated.

If you enrolled in college (or considering pursuing a degree or certificate), you’d be in good company. The University Continuing Education Association cites that nearly half of full- and part-time undergraduates ages 25 to 34 and about 63 percent of those 35+ continue to work full time. About 40 percent of today’s undergrads are at least 25.

Why are they there? Perhaps they realize “lifelong learning is necessary for a competitive advantage,” says Bili Mattes, associate provost for strategic markets at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (PA). “If you don’t stay current, you’re fairly dead in the water.” The trend of corporate universities indicates employers view ongoing training as a must, she adds.

Versatility Is an Asset

In Ellen Ryder Griffin’s view as dean of Southern New Hampshire University’s School of Professional and Continuing Education, most students don’t seem to be there to explore new fields. “I believe job retention and promotion are still the most significant reasons for the choice of major and degree track.”

Come layoff time, that extra knowledge should help. “When making tough reduction-in-force decisions, employers retain those people who can wear more than one hat,” explains Roberta Chinsky Matuson, president of Human Resource Solutions. Matuson, who has helped clients with layoff strategies, says employers look at who could “do not only their own jobs, but the tasks that become available when they release other people.”

So to increase your layoff survival odds, Matuson advises beefing up skills in areas besides your specialty. As Mattes says, you don’t want to just be “known as the guy or gal who does balance sheets.”

A conversation with the boss will show you want to grow and help in determining what would boost your value.

When layoffs are imminent, Matuson says, you can’t expect your boss to remember you’ve got special certification. An informal reminder might go like this: “As you may recall, I have a graduate degree already. Would becoming a certified financial planner be an asset?”

Make Your Own Plan

Just don’t fail to consider where you want to be in the future, she says. Blindly following a boss’s plan for you could spell misery.

Yet this may not be the time to sample something new using tuition reimbursement benefits. “It would not be wise to take on a degree or a certificate program that’s not related to your job and for growth within your company,” Mattes says. Employers who may not have scrutinized what programs employees are taking may now be vigilant about that.

As for this benefit’s fate in tough economic times, Matuson says employers may be capping the programs (by, say, nixing pricey executive MBAs) or changing the rules of eligibility — so “jump in now.”

Online or in person, learning options include everything from two-hour seminars, daylong workshops, and semester-long courses to certificate or degree programs. Thomas Allen, dean of Student and Career Services at DeVry University in Alpharetta, Georgia, reminds that the investment in education is valuable not just in saving your job but for its own sake. “Learning is a lifelong process and you never have enough.”

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-getting_educated_can_save_you_from_a_layoff-797

Getting Educated Can Save You From a Layoff is a post from: Free Career Advice