By Michael Lee

If you want to discover the best paying careers for women, then this article could give you the vital information you need.

This is no longer a man’s world. These days, more and more women are actually earning higher salaries than their male counterparts. If you feel like you’re not exactly among these so-called high earners, then you’re probably not in the right career. Let’s face it. Some jobs do pay better than most. If you want in on the whole jig, you might want to shift to the best paying careers for women.

These careers definitely lead to the good life. What woman doesn’t want to earn a higher salary and to afford all the things that she wants in life, right? If it’s a change of direction you want, then here’s a list of some of the best paying careers for women.

1) Gynecology is a woman’s turf.

Not to say that male gynecologists aren’t just as good as female gynecologists. However, you have to admit that women would most likely choose female gynecologists over their male counterparts.

A lot of patients don’t exactly welcome the idea of a stranger talking to them about such a private issue, much less a male stranger. That usually makes the whole routine check-up even more awkward than it is. Besides, husbands and boyfriends don’t exactly go for male gynecologists either.

Here’s another reason why gynecology is one of the best paying careers for women: Aside from the obvious stream of patients you’ll have, you also get to charge them per session.

A quick check-up that doesn’t last for more than five minutes already gives you an instant paycheck. And unless dictated otherwise by your contract with the hospital or medical lab, you are usually free to divide your time between hospital A and hospital B. This gives you more opportunities to earn a decent income and still use the same skills.

2) It pays to be fashion forward.

One of the best paying careers for women is a career in fashion. A lot of girls grow up following a certain style icon or trendsetter. Most women have developed their own sense of style throughout the years; and fashion has somehow become imbued in their system.

Working in fashion might be challenging, but it is also fun. You might start out as a simple assistant, but think about the freebies and the connections you’ll get in return. A

nd of course, once your name is echoed in the fashion industry, you don’t even have to bother counting your monthly income anymore because you know you’re set for life.

3) Psyche yourself into a career change.

Psychiatrists are also among the best-paid professionals in the industry. (Haven’t you noticed how elegant and rich most of their offices are?)

Consider that most psychiatrists like to charge by the hour, and that their patients aren’t always there just for a one-time session. Besides, there is no gender inequality in psychiatry. Patients go to doctors who can treat them. If you’re good at what you do, then you are much likely to succeed.

These are just some of the best paying careers for women. Despite the promise of staggering figures, you also need to put in some work and dedication to achieve success in these fields.

“The Ultimate Way Of Preparing For A Job Interview! Now You Can Easily Impress Any Job Interviewer And Persuade Him to Eagerly Hire You On the Spot!”

Best Paying Careers for Women: 3 High-Paying Careers Worth Looking Into is a post from: Free Career Advice

The Job Loss Recovery Guide A Proven Program for Getting Back to Work Fast

Job loss is one of life’s most traumatic experiences, often causing feelings of anger, anxiety, and hopelessness. These are the same painful emotions that prevent successful job-hunting. In this timely book, psychologist and Fortune 100 career transition consultant Lynn Joseph employs the same visualization techniques used by Olympic athletes to help recently laid-off people overcome their fear and doubt and get back on track professionally. Readers learn to listen to their “inner coach” and use mental rehearsal techniques that they can stop, rewind, and play back until they visualize having the perfect interview. The author’s results-minded strategies show readers how to increase their confidence, motivation, and performance to make a successful reentry into the job market.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars If you really want a job – read this book
Don’t even think about it….if you are out of work, order this book now! The book is a great help, paired with the CD it is spectacular. If you have the opportunity to take a seminar with Dr. Joseph, drive all night if you have to, it is worth the time & effort to jump start your job search.

I give this system my highest recommendation, don’t wait!

5 Stars This is a lifesaver! A must read!
A+++ This book is amazing for ANYONE who has EVER lost a job or wants to get a new job really fast.

Really helpful for getting you over the shock and anger and pain of losing a job and then moving on to something MUCH BETTER.

You must get Joseph’s CD’s, they are absolutely wonderful. My wife has been listening to them for a week and she has never even lost a job!

5 Stars A gift for job seekers
This small book is one that has power beyond its pages. I am so impressed at the sound research that Dr. Joseph has conducted to back up this program. Clients in my career coaching practice are reporting impressive results(such as acing interviews!) from using this book and the companion CD. Sports figures have been using these techniques with much success. The application of mental imagery as a way to speed up job “landing time” makes perfect sense and Dr. Lynn Joseph’s book not only builds a case for using these practical techniques but also guides us gently through them. She has given countless job seekers a gift whose effects will be lasting. I recommend this to anyone who is open to stepping out of the box in order to reap impressive rewards.

Buy/More Info

The Job Loss Recovery Guide A Proven Program for Getting Back to Work Fast is a post from: Free Career Advice

The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search The Proven Program Used by the Worlds Leading Career Services Company

The Proven Program Used by 600,000 Job Hunters!

. .

You put hours and hours of hard work into your job search and the companies you’ve contacted never call. It’s a story all too common in the fast-paced, highly competitive world of job hunting. Nothing is more discouraging than sending one resum� after another into the job-hunting void. Eventually, you expect silence from the other end.

. .

The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search was written so this never happens to you again. These techniques, developed by author Orville Pierson, have been used successfully for ten years by Lee Hecht Harrison (LHH), the world’s premier career services company. Here, Pierson provides you with the job-search techniques that up to now have been limited to the LHH consultants he trains.

. .

Orville Pierson has helped thousands of job hunters during his career, taking note of the characteristics that have led to success as well as failure. In The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search, he supplies key information on how professional job search consultants structure the job search project so you can apply the same winning strategies to your own search. You’ll also be privy to inside information on how decision makers operate, enabling you to get the inside track on job openings before they are announced.

. .

This insider’s guide covers every phase of the job search, leading you step by step through the process of creating a clear-cut plan-essential to every job search. Using the Pierson Method, you’ll learn how to

. .

.
• Develop a Target List (the key ingredient to every job search).
• Measure your progress.
• Create a �core message� about yourself that decision makers won’t forget.
• Present yourself in the best possible light to prospective employers.

. .

Using these strategies, Orville Pierson and LHH have helped 600,000 people land great new jobs. Employ the Pierson Method in your hunt for employment and you’ll soon be doing what you love in the company that’s right for you.

.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars One of the best job search books out there
The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search: The Proven Program Used by the Worlds Leading Career Services CompanyThe author is not only highly knowledgeable about what is entailed in an effective job search, he knows how to write clearly, simply and in an interesting, even entertaining, fashion. I would rate this as one of the top books I have ever read on the subject. Mr. Pierson lays out a logical and structured approach that could not be simpler to follow. The book is concise and an easy read while covering every essential element of the challenging job search process. And equally importantly, he offers not only every step to take. along with how and why to use it, but the encouragement that you will succeed if you just go about it intelligently and diligently.

5 Stars A Most Helpful Book!
Orville takes a complex and slippery process and makes it straightforward. As someone who has also worked in outplacement for a number of years, the Pierson method offers helpful advice in how to prepare for your search, how to implement it, and how to know how it’s going. Chapters are easy to read and follow. If you’re in transition or know someone who is out of work, this is the book for you.

5 Stars Good systematic approach to job searching
Pierson’s book offers a well laided out and systematic approach to job searching. This book is especially helpful for those individuals looking for a step-by-step plan that they can follow easily and that will keep them dedicated to the job search.

5 Stars Telling it Like it Is
Orville Pierson tells it like it really is! The job search process is hard work. A common complaint that my clients have is they find it difficult to stay organized, stay focused and maintain some semblence of structure in their daily job search activities. The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search provides a framework and methodology that gives my clients a sense of control during what can be an overwhelming process. Each client of mine receives a copy of this book – it is a must read!

5 Stars A very smart and practical approach to finding a great job
Orville’s book provides new insigts and creative strategies for finding meaningful work. The “Pierson Method” is intelligent and presented in a manner that gave me a terrific new paradigm which provides structure and a means to measure my progress with tangible results that I control. I loved it! Five Stars!!

Buy/More Info

The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search The Proven Program Used by the Worlds Leading Career Services Company is a post from: Free Career Advice

Marathon runners know that the key to crossing the finish line first isn’t brute strength but stamina. The same goes for the job hunt.

“A job search is always a mind game,” says independent career counselor Cathy Severson of Santa Barbara, California. “You don’t know if this is going to be a sprint or a marathon. Assume it will be a marathon, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised if it’s a sprint.”

But it’s easy to lose stamina — and motivation — especially in this economy. Watch for these stamina killers and their solutions:

Stamina-Killer #1: Ignoring Feelings

Been laid off? “You may feel confused, ashamed, even depressed,” says Anne Perschel, president of Germane Consulting and an organizational psychologist who coaches executives and helps employees change careers. It’s natural. But letting it fester will destroy your momentum.

“Job loss is probably one of the top three stressors in life,” she says. “It affects your identity and your sense of value. When you have days where you feel down, make small steps toward your goal.”

Stamina-Killer #2: Job or Bust

If the goal is just to land the job, you’re setting yourself up to fail every day you don’t get a job offer, says Severson.

“You never know when an offer is going to appear,” she says. “When the focus shifts to the actual tasks, the job searcher feels a greater sense of control and is better able to handle the long haul.”

Try these switches:

• Instead of “I will get a job in X field this year,” try “I will send out five resumes this week.”
• Instead of “I will have three job interviews this month,” try “I will call five people for informational interviews today.”

Stamina-Killer #3: Applying for Every Job

It’s tempting to up your odds of an interview by applying for any job for which you’re remotely qualified. Avoid that trap, says Perschel.

“[Job interviewers] will know you’re not a good fit for the job” if you apply for anything, she says. “You’ll get more rejections, fewer responses, and more negative feedback.” Your momentum will wane.

Stamina-Killer #4: Negative People and Information

“How do you feel after you talk to each person in your life — drained or energized?” asks Severson.

Apply that question across the board and you’ll know what — and who — is sapping your energy so you can avoid them. Talk about your job hunt with only the most energizing friends, family members and colleagues, and seek out positive acquaintances.

The same goes for news: If you’re paralyzed after reading or watching the news, avoid it. You can always go back to it when you feel stronger.

Stamina-Killer #5: Pursuing Work You Don’t Love

If you’re going after the same old work, it’ll be harder to keep trying every day. Banish mediocrity and seek out the work you’re passionate about.

Not only will it keep you going, says Perschel, but also it has a surprise bonus: It increases your chance of landing that dream job.

“Assume there are other people out there who have the same skills,” says Perschel. “But that energy, commitment, and passion? It can be your real differentiator.”

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-5_threats_to_your_job_hunting_stamina-818

5 Threats to Your Job-Hunting Stamina is a post from: Free Career Advice

People like Robin Stearns and Mark Heuer have taken job hunting to a new level in today’s troubled economy.

To help find work for her husband, Stearns started the site myhusbandneedsajob.com. The homepage shows her near San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge holding a handmade sign: “Hire my husband.” The rest of site focuses on the resume and accomplishments of Mike, who earned an MBA from Georgetown last year.

“This site was born out of frustration with the job market,” Robin wrote on the site. “After almost ten months of watching my wonderful husband work tirelessly to find a job, I decided to take matters into my own hands and help him stand out in a sea of unemployed.”

Mark Heuer, an unemployed management professional, rented a large billboard along a Milwaukee highway in March. His face appears next to the words “Results Driven Sales & Operations Manager. Mark4hire.com.”

Both Stearns and Heuer received international media coverage and thousands of messages, but relevant job leads were scarce.

“There are no job offers yet,” said Stearns two weeks after her site went up, but her husband had lined up some interviews in the San Francisco area as a result.

Pushing Out New Boundaries

These approaches are just two creative examples of extreme job hunting. With the unemployment rate above 8% nationally and 5 million people looking for work, some job seekers are buying display ads on social networking sites, posting elaborate video resumes, and wearing sandwich boards or custom-made T-shirts with a cover letter printed on the back.

While the tactics can make you stand out, some experts caution about getting too creative.

“Even in today’s market, it’s excelling at the fundamentals that helps job seekers stand out,” says Andy Denka, executive director of financial staffing firm Accountemps. “Individuals should focus their efforts first and foremost on creative top-notch resumes, networking with everyone they know, and honing their interview skills.”

Networking efforts actually led Heuer to the billboard idea, he says. “I thought, ‘How can I get in front of more people?’ Highway 45 in Milwaukee captures 100,000+ cars a day.”

How’s Your Tolerance for Risk?

If you want to go beyond the basics and try more risky job-hunting tactics, consider these suggestions:

* Treat the job search like a courtship, and make the first move. “Don’t wait for a company to post a job ad,” says Denka. “If there are businesses you are interested in working for, research how you can contribute to their success and contact them directly.”

* Work for free. Approach a company that interests you and offer to work for free for a set number of hours each week, over a period of two months, says Katy Piotrowski, author of “The Career Coward’s Guide to Job Searching.”

“This is a great way to get your foot in the door, prove your worth, and assist the company to get to a place where they can actually hire you,” she says. “This method results in long-term employment about 50% of the time.”

* Volunteer or take a lead role in a professional association. “If you’re in finance, you take on a treasury position with a local community group,” says Denka. “In the process, you’ll enhance your resume, meet potential business contacts and keep your abilities current.”

Just Be Proactive

Kentucky resident Larry Dinsmore is proprietor of the site DamnINeedaJob.com, which sells T-shirts emblazoned with custom cover letters. He started the site while he was out of work, hoping it would inspire others.

“These times require some creativity, and when you think you’ve done everything, there’s always something else,” Dinsmore says. “Don’t just sit back and wait on responses to resumes. Be proactive and make things happen!”

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-extreme_job_hunting-819

Extreme Job Hunting is a post from: Free Career Advice

Finding A Job Gods Way Moving into the HOV Lane of Your Career

What does the Bible have to say about job-hunting? Everything you’d ever want to know, contends author David Rawles, whose CAREERWORKSHOPS Inc., have encouraged thousands in their employment searches. Finding a Job God’s Way combines on-target tips with biblical counsel to address any situation that might arise for a job-seeker: processing hurts from past employment, making a positive first impression with an interviewer, knowing when to discuss salary, answering tough interview questions, learning how to “close the deal”, networking with contacts, writing follow-up letters, and more. Concise, user-friendly chapters give the job-seeker instant take-away to get on with the business of finding God’s job for him or her. The book is like having your personal career coach at your side.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Hoghly recommended for the job seeker!
David has a wealth of corporate experience to draw from in the development of this book. Knowing how to find a job in today’s world is like trying to hit a moving target. David has up to date proven tips on how to effectively find a job in the job market today. Reader’s are advised to put their past behind them, look to the future, gain their focus and target their search. An accountability partner who is honest to the point of pain is also essential for your search to be most effective. I highly recommend David’s book as a “must read!”

5 Stars David Rawles is a Godsend
David’s book has helped me through a very difficult time in my life, after 14 years with the same company, I found myself back in the job market without the tools to be able to initiate a proper job search. Through Davids book, I have learned the proper way to write a resume, proper interview techniques, and one of the most important, the follow-up after the interview.

With Davids help, I was able to find employment during a very slow job market within just a few months.

Thank you for a one of a kind approach to job hunting.

Mike Wywias

1 Star You don’t need “God”: You need to critically examine your life. . .
Notice all these 5-stars are from Texas? No surprise there; I imagine all these good-ole folks want a job so they can afford their gas-guzzling SUVs and keep up with the Joneses in their McMansions. I would add most of them haven’t reviewed anything else on Amazon: friends of the author? Paid? Perhaps the author himself with various nom de plumes?

You don’t need to pray for a job: with a little hard work, determination, and an unwavering tenacious attitude, you’ll be able to fulfill your earthly needs. IT’S CALLED ENLIGHTMENT; HUMANISM: stop your ignorant blathering, people.

God’s dead.

Don’t waste time with this yahoo book . . . just go out there and apply yourself; fight for the poor and down-trodden. Fight for a clean environment and give peace a chance.

And remember . . . Jesus rode a donkey not a corporate jet. He understood that it takes a village . . . not self-help drivel from a con-artist.

5 Stars The complete process guide for your journey
David’s book is a comprehensive guide to each step in the job search process. He integrates the big picture of our spiritual journey with practical applications. The design concepts of the two-page resume, the development of your Two-Minute Drill, the use of pre-planned interview questions, and good networking techniques are invaluable. I’ve recommended this book to many people. It’s simple and effective.

5 Stars Great resource no matter where you are in your job search
I am a social worker and I use this book as part a job development curriculum helping women gain employment. The author keeps your attention with applicable stories and humor. This book is full of practical advice no matter where you are in your job search. I have even recommended the book to my father and husband to read. “Finding a Job God’s Way” is a great read for anyone trying to find not only employment, but the job that God has for them.

Buy/More Info

Finding A Job Gods Way Moving into the HOV Lane of Your Career is a post from: Free Career Advice

The Job Search Solution The Ultimate System for Finding a Great Job Now

‘Beshara’s unrivaled trench experience is smartly packed into an extremely helpful new book,”The Job Search Solution” — Joyce Lain Kennedy, nationally syndicated career columnist

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Practical, Spiritual and Great Recipe for Success
It took me two months to read and digest this book. I intend to use the tools, practices and steps to assist me in my job search. The author is fantastic, I had a couple of personal questions regarding my situation and Tony not only responded to my email, but he responded within the same day and gave sound advice that was needed and much appreciated!

5 Stars Job Search Solution
The best book on job hunting I’ve ever read. I especially liked the chapter on getting emotionally prepared

5 Stars Changed my mind!
I can credit this book with giving me the courage (and the right mindset) to tackle bigger-salary jobs for which I was uncertain I was qualified. I had some six-figure jobs e-mailed to me through RiseSmart, but joked that it was pointless curiosity. Now I plan to go after those opportunities, using the techniques set forth in Beshara’s book and my newfound positive attitude!

4 Stars Some great insight, some extreme tactics
This book provides some great insights about how hiring managers make decisions, and it inspired me to really think through what I offer, how I present myself, and how I might position my strengths differently for one interviewer than another – even for the same position.

The author also does a good job acknowledging and validating the emotional misery that goes along with finding a new job. While this might seem obvious, for me it was a major breakthrough in self-awareness.

My only gripe is that some of the practical advice, especially about getting an interview, feels extreme and overly forceful. Beshara provides scripts for pushing your way into an interview, even after the hiring manager tries to tell you no. I’ve been a manager before, and if someone tried that approach with me, I would be irritated, turned off, and potentially offended. If I tell someone no, I mean it. If they continue to push, I am not impressed. Perhaps this is effective in a sales organization or a position where aggression is a valued leadership skill, but in my part of the business world, a hard sell is the quickest way to a hard NO.

On the other hand, I’ve been unsuccessfully job-searcing for almost a year, so you may wish to ignore everything I just wrote and follow the tactics in the book. Personally, I just can’t.

5 Stars Do Yourself A Favor, and Read This Book
In my opinion, this is the kind of book that should be given out in every university on graduation day in addition to diplomas and the optimistic fanfare. Since I left my own university life many years ago, I have consistently wrestled with understanding the complex job hunting and interviewing process required of anyone interested in forging their own professional path. My strategy up to this point has unfortunately relied on the “Wing-and-a-Prayer” method, which, after reading Tony Beshara’s book, I see was a significant mistake I’m now working to correct. One of the most important concepts he expresses, and one I have not seen in many other books I’ve read on this topic, is the idea of taking the emotion out of the search. Rejection is a standard part of this process, and one that causes most people to stop looking at all. Beshara’s point is that job hunting is nothing but one big numbers game. Once you can understand that, you empower yourself to weather the heavy storm of criticism and obstacles you will encounter along the way to finding a well-paid and satisfying position on the stepping stones of building a career. Taking the emotion out of this endeavor leaves you with a process that will ultimately get you what you want with less emotional anchor dragging behind and slowing down your forward motion. As Beshara says, “Pay attention to the process, and the results will take care of itself.” For the first time in my working history I no longer feel afraid of what I must face in landing my next position. I think you will discover this book to be equally engaging and profoundly illuminating. Good luck with your own search. I know Tony Beshara’s book will give you exactly the right tools you are looking for to reach your professional destination as quickly as possible.

Buy/More Info

The Job Search Solution The Ultimate System for Finding a Great Job Now 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

Many professionals are finding it harder to land their dream job these days. In some cases, entire industries have been contracting and will continue to shrink. But when one door closes, another (somewhat similar, previously unconsidered, possibly less glamorous) door opens.

Here are a few examples of how professionals in a variety of fields could cast their job hunting net wider to land a “Plan-B” job with the skills they already have:

Commercial real estate manager — liquidator. When a company goes under, there are many steps involved, such as how to value inventory and how to determine the value of the property. “Right now there is a greater demand for liquidators, and those in commercial real estate who have that knowledge can be good candidates for those jobs,” says Sophia Koropeckyj, an economist at Moody’s Economy.com

Stock broker — investment counselor. In the wake of the Wall Street and banking meltdown, many investment banking careers are endangered. However, with the broker’s knowledge of investment, finance, and value, and the consumer’s quandary over where to invest, you have an opportunity. Investment counselors can help people determine their risk tolerance, financial plans, and — something very important these days — manage their debt. Counselors can find most job openings are at small firms, or they can start their own companies.

Construction manager — green building retrofitter. New commercial and residential construction is cold, but green building retrofitting is hot. Real estate experts say commercial property owners are clamoring to make their buildings LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified, in order to attract more customers. In addition, homeowners are seeing a value in retrofitting their homes to be more energy efficient.

IT professional (big company) — IT professional (smaller company). Large companies have been disproportionately hit with layoffs in a variety of fields, but there are many more opportunities for IT professionals at small firms or start-up companies, Koropeckyj tells Yahoo! Hot Jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a strong demand for network systems and data communications analysts and computer software engineers, so if prospects at the big firms are drying up, prospects at smaller companies should be growing.

Copywriter/print designer — project manager. It’s more competitive than ever to find a creative job at an ad agency, but many project management positions are opening up, especially for people who understand how to work with tight budgets, according to Megan Slabanski, executive director of The Creative Group.

“If you have good organizational skills and understanding of an agency, or if you’ve been in any kind of leadership role, such as bringing in deliverables on time and under budget, you may already have what it takes to land a project management job,” Slabanski says.

Auto salesperson — “repo man.” The economy has hurt sales professionals; it also created opportunities for people who repossess cars and other vehicles when buyers have fallen behind on payments. Employment requirements vary from state to state, but in general the bar to entry is not high. In addition, collection agencies have seen a sharp increase in workload, so opportunities for collections agents are increasing. These jobs require a tough skin; but if you have a lot of experience at sales, your ego is probably resilient.

The Common Thread

If there seems to be a theme in job opportunities, there is: making the best of a bad economy. Downsizing is in, both in personal finances and in corporate payrolls. Jobs or careers dedicated to helping people (or companies) better manage their finances, save money, get better value for their dollar, and avoid financial catastrophe should be more plentiful in the short term, Koropeckyj says.

“See how the job could fit into your overall career narrative,” career coach Deborah Brown-Volkman tells Yahoo! HotJobs. “And ask yourself how long you will be in the job. Some people say ‘I’m only going to do this a year,’ and then 10 years pass and they’re still there. Have a plan for what’s next.”

Step Down? Not Always

A Plan-B job might not be a step down at all and could be more rewarding than the Plan-A job. Moving from copywriter to project manager could mean more money. A human resources professional moving from a large corporation to a start-up would see a pay cut, but could have more growth opportunities and flexibility (and possible stock options).

A Wall Street analyst moving to investment counseling would see a more manageable 40-hour workweek and the satisfaction of directly helping people in need (and have a job title with less social stigma).

For many Plan-B jobs, you don’t have to earn an additional degree, or even obtain a certificate, but they do require a re-positioning of your existing skills, according to Slabanski.

“The most important thing in a good economy or bad is to keep expanding your skills and knowledge,” she says. “You don’t need to be a jack of all trades, but if you stay current on what’s going on in your industry and update your skills to what’s needed today, you won’t work yourself out of a job.”

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-pursuing_a_plan_b_job-781

Pursuing a ‘Plan-B’ 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!

Article source: 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!

Article source: http://ca.hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-6_myths_about_job_hunting_in_a_recession-784

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