End of the Year Is Prime for Job Hunting

by Robert McCauley, Robert Half International


According to conventional wisdom, there's no worse time to search for a job than when the year is winding down. But sometimes conventional wisdom isn't entirely accurate.

The truth is that the end of the year may be the best time to find a new job. Here are five reasons:

1. You face less competition. Buying into popular theory, many job seekers halt their quests for employment in November and December, choosing to save their efforts for when the calendar changes. But take a glimpse at the want ads, and you'll see that employers haven't stopped looking for talent. With fewer candidates vying for the same number of positions, you may have an edge over the competition, unlike no other time during the year.

2. More employers are hiring. Many firms, especially retail companies, increase their hiring efforts in winter to meet rising demand for their products and services. Even though seasonal jobs are often temporary, many hiring managers view these positions as extended, on-the-job interviews and offer full-time employment to promising hires.

3. Companies have budget surpluses. Some employers hire new workers at the end of the year because they have not yet used all of the funds they set aside earlier for adding new personnel. If the hiring managers don't increase headcount during the final two months, they may lose that portion of their budgets and be unable to bring aboard new employees at all.

4. It may be easier to secure an interview. Things often slow down at the end of the year due to vacations and the winter holidays. As a result, hiring managers may be less busy than usual and have more time to review your resume or call you in for an employment interview.

5. You'll get a jump on things. Even if some firms wait until the beginning of the year to add headcount, that doesn't mean they've stopped collecting resumes and considering candidates. By submitting your application materials now, you'll be first in line when the hiring process gets in full swing again.

As 2007 comes to a close, remember that employers are always on the lookout for strong professionals, especially in fields such as accounting and finance and information technology, where skilled workers are in short supply. That means there's no wrong time to look for your next job, no matter what conventional wisdom says.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.

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Make the Most of the Holiday Work Party

Naughty and Nice Behaviors to Watch Out For
by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs


For an event that's supposed to be fun, the annual holiday office party can sometimes be a tightrope walk between festive and fear-inducing.

If you worry that you're being observed for your behavior, you're not being paranoid. You are being watched. But business etiquette experts agree that a degree of party-going savvy can get you through the evening with your professional reputation intact, and may even give you a career boost.

What's Naughty

To make the most of the office party, experts strongly discourage:

* Drinking to excess. "We all know alcohol lowers your inhibitions," says Randall Hansen, founder and president of Quintessential careers. "And if you imbibe too much you might find yourself telling off the boss or pulling a co-worker under the mistletoe."

* Pulling anyone under the mistletoe. Flirting, or worse, sneaking off for a tryst, guarantees that you'll be part of the office gossip mill at least until the summer office picnic.

* Fashion experimentation. Keep the low-cut, leopard-skin dress at home. "Remember that the office party is still business, so it not the time to bring your wild side out," according to business etiquette expert Hilka Klinkenberg. In general, if your outfit would be out of place on casual Friday, it probably wouldn't be appropriate at the party.

* Gifting. Unless you bring (appropriate) gifts for everyone, some co-workers are bound to feel left out.

* Bringing guests. If the invitation isn't specific on who's invited -- including spouses, significant others, children, and pets -- either don't bring them, or check it out with the event planner.

What's Nice

If navigating the holiday party minefield is daunting, go anyway, experts say. "It will show you're a part of the team, and if you're absent it will be noticed," Klinkenberg says.

To make the most out of the event, use it to network. For the rules of the holiday schmooze, etiquette experts suggest:

* Mix and mingle. "You want to show you're good with people and confident in social situations, which is especially important if your job involves a lot of human interaction," according to Cynthia Lett, owner of the Lett Group. "This may be the one time when higher-ups in the company see your social skills, and a positive performance may give them enough ammo to recommend you when the promotion comes up."

* Keep it light. "It's OK to talk about your team's accomplishments, but don't bore everyone by bragging about your own," says Andrea R. Nierenberg, networking expert and president of the Nierenberg Group. Likewise, don't monopolize anyone's time with a complex dissertation of corporate strategy. Nierenberg suggests having a list of "small talk" topics in mind, or going to a company's website press page to find lighter, business-relevant conversation starters.

* Have an exit strategy. Knowing when to politely excuse yourself from a conversation and when to leave the party are two critical party-going skills. "You should instinctively know when it's right to move on to the next person, but when in doubt spend no more than seven minutes talking to someone," Nierenberg says. As for the amount of face time to spend, you don't have to stay the whole time, but a quick exit will be noticed. Conversely, don't stay until the bitter end; it may give the impression you're more party animal than professional.

* Be courteous. It's always a good idea to thank your party planner, and, especially if it's at a private residence, the host.

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Here We Come A-Networking

Use the Holidays to Make More Contacts
by Debra Davenport, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Just like you can never receive too many gifts at the holidays, you can never have too many contacts in your network. Being well-connected connotes success and influence -- the kind of cachet every serious professional seeks to achieve.

The holidays are a great time to build your list of influential contacts. Whether you're currently employed or searching for the perfect job, consider every invitation a chance to create new career-building relationships.

Here are several networking strategies that have proven successful:

* The best networking takes place at home. Inviting colleagues, prospects, clients, and contacts to your home establishes a more personal relationship. An invitation to your home also creates opportunities for reciprocal invitations and introductions to others' inner circle of contacts. Host a holiday open house, buffet, or afternoon tea. You don't have to impress by spending a lot of money. It's the invitation that counts.

* Give and you shall receive. Feeling altruistic this holiday season? Get involved with a charity. Volunteering leads to important connections and the development of relationships that are not just based on building business contacts, but on helping others.

* Don't assume. Don't reject invitations to events that seem like duds -- they often turn out to offer valuable networking opportunities. You never know who's going to be there. And, while it's possible you may connect with only one person, that connection could turn into a powerful, long-term relationship.

* Create your own networking opportunities. Start a holiday book club, a caroling troupe or a game night. Host a party to honor someone you admire, give an award or even create a scholarship program. There are countless ways of getting people together to enjoy the spirit of the season. All you need is one idea and an invitation.

* Use the Internet. Write a holiday blog or newsletter and e-mail it to your contacts. Include a "viral" element, such as a photo, video, news article, or original quote to prompt recipients to spread your message.

* Follow up with every person you meet. A handwritten note letting someone know you enjoyed meeting them is priceless today, and worth every minute. Your goal is to solidify your initial impression as a savvy professional -- and to be remembered.

* Use your business cards! Your business card is your best networking tool. Always have plenty on hand and don't be shy about handing them out. Include your card in your holiday mailings and attach them to business gifts. In between jobs? Personal "call me" cards printed with your name, descriptor (e.g., "Sales and Marketing Specialist"), and contact information are the perfect tool for self-promotion. Note: If you're employed but on the job hunt, it's proper protocol to use your personal cards rather than your company business cards.

Most importantly, remember that the holidays are a time of giving. Put the needs of others first while you're working the room. Benevolence is the greatest attribute of any job-seeker, regardless of the season.

Debra Davenport is president of DavenportFolio, a licensed firm with offices in Phoenix and Los Angeles that provides career counseling, Certified Professional Mentoring, professional employment placement and executive search services. She is the creator of the Certified Professional Mentor(R) designation, and you can contact her at debra@davenportfolio.com.

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The New World of Job Interviews

by Doug White, Robert Half International


The employment interview isn't what it used to be. While the vast majority of interviews are the standard face-to-face variety, technological advancements have made it possible for employers and applicants to connect quickly in other ways.

Some hiring managers conduct phone interviews during the early phases of candidate searches; others may request you meet via videoconference if you live far away. And, yes, certain companies even hold virtual job fairs.

Following are tips for success when participating in non-traditional job interviews.

The Phone Interview

Minimize distractions. Conduct the call from a quiet, private setting. You won't impress hiring managers if they hear loud pets, honking horns, or your clicking keyboard in the background. If possible, use a landline (which is often more reliable than cellular phones), and disable the call-waiting function.

Speak up. Because the interviewer can't read your facial reactions or body language, verbalize your thoughts. After the hiring manager completes a thought, say something like, "Yes, that aspect of the job sounds appealing" to keep the discussion moving. Speak with confidence and enthusiasm.

Have supplies handy. Keep your resume and cover letter at arm's length, as well as any company research you've collected. You also might prepare a bulleted list of speaking points or questions. Make sure a pen and pad are nearby for taking notes.

The Videoconference Interview

Mock it up. It's intimidating to be interviewed on camera. Calm jittery nerves by doing a trial run with a friend or family member. Record the mock interview and study areas where you can improve. Did you look at the camera, or did your eyes dart nervously around the room? Did you exhibit good posture or slouch? Rehearsing will help ensure you're polished at showtime.

Beware of busy backgrounds. Most video interviews are conducted at a videoconference site, your recruiter's workplace or an employer's satellite office. Wherever you are, remain the focal point by clearing the table of clutter. If you do the interview from home, choose a professional-looking, well-lit setting. In addition, make sure your computer's webcam and microphone are working properly a day in advance.

Dress to impress. Dress as nicely as you would for an on-site visit. And don't assume you'll only be visible from the shoulders up. More than a few jacket-clad candidates have unexpectedly been seated at see-through glass tables or stood up to reveal fashion faux pas such as jeans or shorts.

The Virtual Interview

Wear appropriate avatar apparel. An avatar is a computer-generated icon you create to represent yourself online. If you attend a virtual job fair on Second Life, a popular online community, for instance, your avatar should look professional. You don't necessarily need to don a virtual suit for an "in-world" corporate recruiting event, but don't show up as a flashy nightclub-goer, space alien, or vampire.

Message with care. When communicating via instant message on Second Life, focus on accuracy, not speed. Hiring managers will likely forgive a typo or two, but making a series of grammatical goofs will cause them to question your writing skills and attention to detail. Take a moment to proofread your message and steer clear of emoticons and cyber slang.

No matter what the meeting format, always send a thank-you note to those with whom you interview. Even when communicating with a hiring manager using high-tech tools, a traditional handwritten letter of appreciation will be well received.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 350 offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. For more information about our professional services, please visit rhi.com.

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Overeating on the Job

Watch out for Snack Platters and Food Pushers
by Heather Boerner, for Yahoo! Hot Jobs


Between coworker birthday cakes, shared holiday-party leftovers, staff meetings with Danishes, and pizza-fueled late-night work sessions, it's easy to blow your diet while on the job. But it doesn't have to be.

"People are most successful in healthy eating when they can control their environment, as opposed to being in a negative environment and trying to control themselves," says nutritionist Katherine Tallmadge, author of "Diet Simple."

Take Control

Figure out which food temptations you can control.

If you're the boss, you can tell the person who orders food to bring a platter of fruit instead of cookies to the staff meeting, and ask your staff to stash junk food in drawers.

Not the boss? No problem. Consider these tips:

* Join the office snack committee. "Lobby for fresh fruits and veggies instead of baked goods," says Tallmadge.

* Plan ahead. If your office doesn't have a snack committee, or you don't want to be on it, you can still ask ahead what food will be provided for this week's late-night work session or staff meeting.

"Lots of people have to do this -- diabetics, people with food allergies, vegetarians -- so don't feel self-conscious," counsels Elisabetta Politi, a dietitian and nutrition manager at the Duke University Diet and Fitness Center.

* Share the health. Be an example to coworkers and set out a bowl of fruit on your desk and invite others to enjoy it. It could start a healthy trend, according to Tallmadge.

* Talk to coworkers. You may not have authority, but you can still ask coworkers to stash their candy and junk food in their drawers instead of leaving it out. Most people won't mind, says Politi.

Resist Food Pushers

You may run into resistance from people who not only won't comply with your requests, but will also undermine your diet by actively tempting you with food you don't want.

With these food pushers, your best bet is to not engage.

"When you tell a food pusher you can't have something, that you're on a diet, you're giving a double message -- you're saying, 'I really want it, talk me into it,'" Tallmadge says. "It's always best to simply say, 'No, thank you,' and then compliment lavishly the food she brings that is healthy."

The situation could be more difficult if the food pusher is a friend, and you used to eat junk food together. Politi advises that you two focus on the things you can do together that don't involve food.

"It's not about giving up friendships," she says. "Go for a walk with her and have meals with people who make healthy choices."

Be Flexible

Finally, the biggest challenge to a dieter's will power often comes from an all-or-nothing attitude, Politi warns. So don't fall into it.

"Look at it in perspective: You have 21 meals in every week," she says. "A few slices of birthday cake a month are no big deal. Most people have at least two meals a day they can control. Focus on that."

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Bullies in the Workplace

by Robert DiGiacomo, for Yahoo! HotJobs


If the equivalent of the schoolyard bully is now sharing your cubicle or -- worse -- is your boss, you're not alone.

More than 1 in 3 workers -- or 54 million people -- report being bullied at work, according to a Zogby International poll. Nearly three-quarters of the bullies are in managerial positions, and 55 percent of their victims are workers, Zogby found.

Below are some warning signs to watch out for and hints for coping with an abusive manager or coworker.

Is the Boss a Bully or Just Demanding?

Executive coach Laura Crawshaw, author of "Taming the Abrasive Manager: How to End Unnecessary Roughness in the Workplace," has identified five signs that your boss is a bully.

The signs include overreacting to situations, micromanaging others, acting in a superior and condescending way, humiliating employees in front of colleagues, and taking a threatening stance, as in, "It's my way or the highway."

But Crawshaw doesn't like to use the "B" word. She explains, "The 'bully' term implies they intend to do harm. In fact, this is not what I've found. Essentially, they are blind to the impact of their behavior on others. Generally, they don't see it."

Zero Tolerance

To foster a positive workplace, employers need to first recognize the bullying problem, according to Garry Mathiason, a senior partner in the San Francisco office of Littler Mendelson, a top employment and labor law firm.

Employers should then create policies establishing guidelines for unacceptable behavior and ways to report such conduct, and make sure everyone -- from the CEO to the file clerk -- practices what they're preaching.

"There has to be encouragement of reporting problems, and there have to be alternative channels -- human resources, a senior manager, or the legal department -- if you can't report it directly to your immediate supervisor because he or she is the problem," Mathiason said.

The Mind of the Bully

The bully boss, according to Crawshaw, displays overaggressive behavior out of fear, not confidence.

"When they get anxious about how they're going to be perceived, they attack," Crawshaw says. "It's helpful for people who are subordinates to realize it's not their problem -- it's the boss' problem."

Preparing an Exit Strategy

If faced with an unresolved bullying situation, should you stay or should you go? Although some workplace bullying experts believe it's possible to resolve such situations, most workers under attack by a bully end up changing jobs, according to a poll by Zogby International for the Workplace Bullying Institute.

The 2007 survey found 77% of those who said they were bullied chose to leave their employer or were fired, forced out, or moved to a different position within the same company.

"Our research is clear about how the bullying stops -- the targets lose the jobs they love," said Gary Namie, director of the Workplace Bullying Institute.

Bottom Line vs. Cohesive Team

But companies would be better served, Mathiason believes, by adhering to policies that value the victim over the bully, even if the latter is a strong contributor to the bottom line.

"If you decide in favor of the harmony and teamwork of the group -- and take the short-term deficit of losing what is otherwise a good performer -- you're going to be more successful as an organization, because the team can always outperform the individual," Mathiason says.

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Mixing Volunteer Work and Your Professional Life

by Sean O'Grady, CareerTV


Seton Hall University's Director of Career Services, Jacqueline Chaffin, answers questions about bringing up your volunteer experience as part of a job application and about mixing volunteer activities with your professional life.

Question: I do a lot of volunteer work but I don't want to look like a goody-two-shoes. What's the best way to bring up my activities during an interview?

JC: First, be proud of your volunteer experiences to date, as employers highly value these types of activities and are looking for in college grads.

Additionally, hiring managers know as new college grads, you may not have had significant internship experience or pre-professional experience.

Also, volunteer experiences are a great indication of one's passion, commitment, and dedication. All attributes that companies are looking for in new hires.

I want to start up a volunteer program at my job but I've only been with the company for three months. Is this OK, and if so, what's the best way to go about it?

First it's great that you want to start up a volunteer program at your company. However, it is advisable that you wait a minimum of six and possibly even nine months to make sure you have established yourself as a responsible and professional individual.

Then I would encourage you to seek the guidance of your immediate supervisor. He or she may direct you to someone in human resources who can provide more information about company policies. Many companies today are offering some release time for volunteer efforts. Maybe a day, possibly two days.

Again, if you get the green light to proceed, proceed cautiously, do your research, and always keep your supervisor apprised. And remember, any time dedicated to your campaign should be considered outside business hours.

Is it appropriate to ask coworkers or supervisors to sponsor you in charitable walks and marathons?

Generally yes, however, it is always advisable to seek the guidance of your supervisor and also consult with the company's policies, both formal and informal. It's best to run the idea by your supervisor.

And if he or she gives you permission, it is acceptable to send a one-time email to the colleagues that you work day in and day out with. It is not appropriate to send a mass email to everyone in the company or knock on the door of someone you don't know.

Also, always remember to thank those who did contribute to your charitable organization and be sure to keep any work on your charitable organization out of working hours.

See the video of this article and get more career help and employer videos at www.careertv.com where you'll find the largest collection of career videos online.

Copyright 2008 CareerTV, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Moving Out of the Midcareer Morass

How to Mix It Up and Build on Your Experience
by Robert DiGiacomo, for Yahoo! HotJobs


If you have at least 10 years of experience in a particular field, job hunting in the current market presents a special challenge.

You're beyond entry-level in terms of experience -- and salary expectations -- yet you're not quite ready for the executive suite, either.

In this tough job market, you could fall between the cracks of employers seeking low-cost, green trainees, and more proven managers to right their corporate ships.

Here are ways to negotiate this in-between status and take a positive, next career step.

Don't Erase Your Dates

Instead of taking the dates off your resume to seem younger, embrace your experience, by preparing an "accomplishment-based resume," says Rachelle J. Canter, president of RJC Associates.

"Show that the extra years provide critical achievements and seasoning that a younger competitor cannot hope to attain," says Canter, author of "Make the Right Career Move."

Right Resume for the Right Job

At the same time, it's perfectly acceptable to develop different versions of your resume tailored to different positions, according to career coach Rebecca Kiki Weingarten.

"For each job, you don't need to list all of your skills," Weingarten says. "Just include what's relevant to whatever they're looking for. You don't want to overwhelm employers. When you go for an interview, you can mention extra skills and experience."

Honesty Really Is the Best Policy

If you're applying for a position for which you may be overqualified, address the issue head-on in a cover letter, recommends life and career coach Shawn Driscoll.

"Don't leave it to the resume screener to jump to conclusions," Driscoll says. "Maybe you are looking to diversify your career experience, and so you're willing to take a step back or a pay cut. Say so. Then, sell your experience and your results."

The Storytelling Advantage

When you land an interview, come armed with compelling anecdotes of real world problems -- and how you solved them.

"Younger job seekers won't have stories -- they'll just have theories," Driscoll says. "Give real situations, the action you took, and the results you achieved."

Calling Style 911

Your resume may not be the only thing that needs updating. Your favorite power suit may look tired, or your hairstyle or glasses could be trapped in the '90s. Image consultant David A. McKnight of DAMstyle recommends perusing fashion magazines and catalogs to assess current trends, and tossing items from three to five years ago that seem out of date.

At the same time, not every hot trend will flatter you, so ask a fashion-savvy friend for advice, or consult a professional to help you figure out your personal look.

"Just because a particular style is popular, it doesn't mean you should be wearing it," McKnight says.

Reinvent Yourself

Finally, you may not have planned to be looking for a new position, but if your job wasn't really your intended career, it could be a good time to forge a new path.

"Having been in a profession for a period of time, use this time to look at your future in another way," Weingarten says. "Instead of saying, I thought I was going to accomplish, x, y or z, you can ask yourself, 'What do I want to do from here on in?"

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10 Hot Jobs That Start at $50K+

by Cherie Berkley, PayScale.com


You may be the new kid on the job block, but that doesn't mean your salary has to start low on the totem pole. The PayScale.com Salary Survey identified an array of exciting jobs that pay a total compensation close to or above an impressive $50,000 per year right from the start.

Here is a list of 10 hot professions that show you the money.

1. Investment Banking Analyst. If you are good with numbers and solving real-world problems, this job pays handsomely in the early years and has strong long-term earning potential.
Typical Starting Salary: $59,084

2. Business Analyst, Computer Software. Data mining is a new and hot field with strong career potential. Normally used by financial institutions such as banks, data miners sort through vast amounts of information that help companies make the best use of the information in their data warehouses. Master's degrees in computer science, physics, or statistics are usually required.
Typical Starting Salary: $50,727

3. Forensic Computer Analyst. Computer forensics is the analysis of information contained within and created with computer systems and computing devices. These analysts investigate causes of computer meltdowns, who has misused a computer system, or how someone committed a crime. These professionals are quite popular in white-collar criminal investigations.
Typical Starting Salary: $51,852

4. Junior Associate Attorney. The financial scales of justice certainly tip toward the side of the average attorney. And just after five years experience the average salary jumps to $89,210. Depending on the field of specialty, the long-term earning potential is almost limitless. Big-shot lawyers like former Sen. John Edwards (malpractice) and celebrity criminal defense attorney Mark Gerago have cleaned up millions in their careers.
Typical Starting Salary: $52,678

5. Physical Therapist. If anatomy is your thing, physical therapy may be your path to greener pastures. PTs can even specialize in areas such as hand or back therapy to boost their marketability -- and salary potential.
Typical Starting Salary: $52,573

6. Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). Nursing opportunities never seem to go out of style, and neither does demand in this area. If a doctor cannot squeeze you in for an appointment, chances are there is a nurse practitioner standing by in his place. While nurse practitioners don't command the big bucks that physicians do, their services certainly don't come cheap.
Typical Starting Salary: $67,166

7. Electrical Engineer. It is easy to do the math on how marketable engineers are. Companies dig deep to lure young electrical engineers and other subspecialties across the board. Electrical engineers focus on using electricity to transmit energy. Payscale.com shows that experienced electrical engineers earn an average of $81,078.
Typical Starting Salary: $54,401

8. Software Engineer. Software engineers design, write, and test computer programs. Computer networking and information technology are hot fields that are here to stay.
Typical Starting Salary: $56,795

9. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. You don't have to be a physician or even science major to make big bucks in medicine. Just about anyone with a college degree and a killer personality can be trained in pharmaceutical sales. These professionals make sales calls to doctors' offices hoping to convince the doctors to prescribe the latest drugs made by the pharmaceutical company they represent. Seasoned pros can make six-figure salaries in this field.
Typical Starting Salary: $51,104

10. Veterinarian. Do you love animals? Veterinarians can combine a passion for their warm, furry friends with great earning power. With growing animal research and interest in pet care, veterinarian medicine is bound to be a popular profession for years to come.
Typical Starting Salary: $59,084

No matter what your skill, passion, or personality, the job market offers numerous professions that also have above-average starting salaries. Just keep your eyes open and reach for the green.

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Beat the Post-Vacation Blues Before They Begin

Strategies for Getting Back to Work After Going Away
by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


Summer vacations -- or vacations taken at any time of year -- are good for business. Workers get to recharge their batteries with rest and relaxation, and their employers usually reap the benefits. But no matter how much you love your job and how much you unwind on your vacation, you still may feel anxious about your initial return to work.

Why? Blame it on a backlog. According to a new survey from The Creative Group, one third of respondents claimed to dread getting back to the daily grind because of "the work awaiting their return." However, half of those surveyed admitted that vacations made them feel happy and refreshed. So how can you keep your post-vacation afterglow upon re-entry to the professional world? Use the tips below to reduce the work that will accumulate in your absence and enjoy the lasting effects of your time away.

Help Someone Else Step Up

Do you know someone who's waiting for an opportunity to spread her wings? Maybe a junior team member or an assistant has been chomping at the bit for a chance to move up. Megan Slabinski, executive director of The Creative Group, reveals, "High-potential employees who are being considered for management roles may welcome the chance to prove themselves while their supervisors are away."

To help your new protege be most effective, she advises professionals to "ensure their second-in-command understands the resources available and has a good framework for making decisions." Take time to bring your charge up to speed so she will succeed in your stead.

Spread the Word

You can put out fires and lessen your load while you're out of town with the push of a button (or two). Says Slabinski, "Leave outgoing messages on your email and voicemail to let others know you are away and whom to contact in your absence." Not only will this immediately direct people to connect with your newly named second-in-command, but, adds Slabinski, it "will reduce the number of calls and messages you must attend to on your return."

(Enabling an auto-response with Yahoo! Mail takes only a few moments and a couple of clicks. Learn how here.)

In Case of Emergency

If there's a pressing issue or pending deal that you need to be involved with even if you're away, say so. Addressing a problem as it arises could save you time and heartache when you're back at work. However, warns Slabinski, "Clearly communicate if and when you want to be contacted about business matters while you're away to help minimize disruptions and ensure a peaceful break." Setting boundaries ahead of time will make sure you're not being bothered unnecessarily.

Hire Extra Help

You're probably not the only person in your department or even on your team who's taking a vacation this summer. So why not make life easier for everyone by bringing in some hired guns on a temporary basis?

"Hiring freelancers to augment your team during staff vacations can prevent remaining employees from becoming overburdened," says Slabinski. It will also keep the work that awaits you to a minimum.

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5 Lifestyle Activities That Can Get You Fired

by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Can having a bacon double cheeseburger and a cigarette put your job at risk? Maybe. It may sound surprising, but many off-the-job actions and lifestyles could put your job in jeopardy.

Fair Game?

Employment experts point out five key areas that a company may scrutinize:

• Smoking, drinking, and overeating. Due to the cost of health insurance, more and more employers view "unhealthy" habits as a threat to their bottom line.
• Risky behavior. Likewise, a company might see your bungee jumping hobby as a liability.
• Speech. Will your employer consider your blogging to be destructive griping?
• Romantic relationships. Dating someone at a competitor's company has landed employees in hot water. And some employers might take issue with unmarried coupling or even same-sex relationships (federal law doesn't protect employees from discrimination based on real or perceived sexual orientation).
• Political activity. Volunteering for Obama could be trouble if you have a pro-McCain boss, and vice versa.

Job- or industry-specific behaviors can lead to termination as well. A Ford worker who drives a Toyota is probably safe -- unless he or she is president of Ford. But a bank employee who bounces a personal check could get the boot.

Cause or Just Because

If these reasons for termination seem unfair, they must be illegal, right? Not necessarily. Just because most employers don't let valued employees loose for off-the-job activities and lifestyles, doesn't mean they can't.

"Most workers in the private sector don't understand that, unless they live in Montana and Arizona, their job is at-will," Paul Secunda, an assistant professor of law at the University of Mississippi, told Yahoo! HotJobs. "At-will means an employee can be fired for good cause or no cause at all," Secunda said.

Federal job protections include gender, race, religion, and national origin, as well as disability. "Some state laws forbid discrimination on other bases, including sexual orientation, or status as a smoker," said Rick Bales, a professor at Northern Kentucky University/Chase College of Law. Smokers in the tobacco-growing state of Kentucky, for example, are safe from termination, he said.

Don't Be Fooled

Although union members and public sector (government) workers generally have more protections, employees in the private sector -- the bulk of the U.S. workforce -- can be fired at any time, and usually without recourse.

"Unless you were fired because you are a member of a protected class under federal law, or under another state statute, it's likely not illegal," said Kimberly Malerba, an associate who litigates employment cases with Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C., a law firm on Long Island, New York.

The good news is that most companies don't go out of their way to snoop into employees' lives, Malerba told Yahoo HotJobs. "A company is most concerned with (off-the-job) behaviors that directly conflict with business interests."

5 Tips to Consider

Legal experts have advice for protecting your job from unexpected dangers:

• Understand the concept of at-will employment. Don't assume that termination must be illegal just because you think it was unfair.
• Be fully aware of your company's policies and terms of employment. Read the employee handbook, and ask HR if you have any questions.
• Be familiar with the company's internal dispute mechanisms (if any) for filing grievances.
• Think before you act. Could your employer see your actions off the job as potentially destructive to the company?
• Don't disclose. "You don't have to disclose lifestyle choices or off-the-clock activities unless there is a clear link to your ability to perform the job," Secunda said.

"My general advice is, don't do anything on your own time that, if reported in the local paper, would reflect poorly on you or your employer," Bales told Yahoo! HotJobs.


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The Biggest Resume Mistake You Can Make

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


Your resume is the most important document in any job search. But what if you're submitting resume after resume and receiving no results at all -- not even a call? Your resume may be fatally flawed.

How can a resume betray a job seeker? It's not just typos or poor formatting. According to Lauren Milligan, founder of ResuMAYDAY, a resume-writing and career coaching firm based near Chicago, "The biggest flaw for a resume is when it fails to showcase a person's accomplishments, contributions, and results, and instead spouts a job description of each position he's held."

Use these three tips to make sure your resume doesn't betray you.

1. Think Big

Whatever jobs you've held -- be it as an assistant or a CEO -- think beyond the everyday tasks of your position. Shares Milligan, "People get bogged down in the day-to-day details of their jobs, but when it comes to your resume, you've got to get out of the clutter and ask yourself, 'What does this work mean?'"

She continues, "If I'm hiring for an administrative assistant, I already know what one does. I don't want to see a resume that only says an applicant can type and answer a phone. You have to go beyond that to point out your specific strengths."

Start by having big-picture conversations about what you do and how it serves the organization as a whole. States Milligan, "If you're in a support position, consider how successful the person you support is and how you help her do her job better. What role do you have in her successes? Those are your accomplishments."

2. Be Clear

Focusing on your accomplishments rather than your specific responsibilities will help keep your resume concise. "There's a huge difference between a resume and the Great American Novel," says Milligan. "The resumes I'm most proud of summed up a 25-year career in a single page."

She urges job seekers to remember that resumes are typically skimmed for a mere six to eight seconds. "Make sure you're identifying the companies you worked for, how long you were there, and if you earned a promotion. Those are things that people look for immediately." Also, if your job title is long and vague, tighten it up so that people immediately understand what you've done. For example, "Marketing Manager" is much more accessible than "Global Identity Architect."

Given the time you have to catch a recruiter's eye, a focused, accomplishment-driven resume is the way to go. She adds, "If you are loaded up on peripheral stuff, it's too hard for a hiring manager to find your story."

3. Get Real

What if you're trying to think about how you've helped build the big picture for your employer and you come up blank?

"A couple of times I've talked to people who insisted they just did their jobs and there's nothing special about them that jumps out," Milligan observes. "I've asked these folks point-blank, 'Are you really in the right position then?'" It's a difficult question to ask, according to this resume expert, but, she says, "These people may be chasing the wrong job."

She counsels clients that if they cannot speak about what they've done in terms of enhancing the position or the company, "You may be just punching a clock -- and you and your employer deserve more."

Look for other opportunities in which you can contribute and grow professionally and you'll enjoy a more rewarding career. And you'll have a more successful resume.

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True Tales from Terrifying Interviews

by Experience, Inc.


You walk into a would-be employer's office, sit down, and try to think up good answers to typical interview questions, such as, "Where do you want to be in five years?" You'd expect that, and not be overly worried.

But not every interview runs that smoothly, and sometimes they can become train wrecks. If you faced some of these terrifying interviewers, what would you do? The following are all true stories, along with tips and advice, collected by the editors at Experience, Inc.

Sing It?

My interview was very lengthy and lasted about an hour and a half. Towards the end of it all, the interviewer -- to my astonishment -- asked me to sing a song! At first I thought I did not hear him right and asked him whether he actually wanted me to sing. It turned out he did. Fortunately, I was able to maintain my composure and sang an inspirational one suitable for the occasion. One never knows what to expect in an interview. It's up to you to convert the situation to your advantage.
-- Ravi T., Syracuse University

Time Check

I had a phone interview a couple weeks ago, and I had it scheduled for after my last class that day. In the middle of the class, I heard my phone vibrate. The second I heard it, I realized my mistake. My phone interview was coming from the East Coast, so it was set for 2:30 p.m. EASTERN time, not CENTRAL. I freaked out, left class, spilled my drink all over myself and the floor on the way out, and then ran to my room to call them back. I was so frazzled that I thought the rest of the interview did not go well. However, somehow I still got the internship.
-- Melinda, Vanderbilt

Animal Magnetism

On one interview for a small startup tech company, the CEO's dog was present while I was interviewed. The dog became especially interested in my leg. I kept shuffling and moving to protect myself from the dog, but the dog just wouldn't quit. The interviewer took no notice of the dog at all. I tried to maintain my composure, but inside I was silently panicking. How could the interviewer not see this? Was this some sort of test of my concentration? It was the strangest interview experience I've ever had.
-- Peter T.

The Date

I had survived my second round of grueling all-day interviews with a high profile firm. Over the course of two days, I met with 10 different staffers and now I was in the home stretch. I felt confident I had done well. As I was gearing up to leave, the hiring manager blushed and said he had one more question: Would I be interested in going for pizza and a movie the following Saturday night? In one inappropriate yet revealing moment my desire to take that job evaporated.
-- Ann T.

Copyright 1996-2008 Experience, Inc. - All Rights Reserved

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Maximize Your Pay in a Downturn

4 Ways to Overcome Wage Inertia
by Aimee Chou, for EarnMyDegree.com


The adage "finders keepers, losers weepers" doesn't apply to your career during a recession. Not all job finders are keepers, and not all job losers are weepers.

Today's market of cancelled contracts, smaller budgets and devaluated portfolios makes it trickier for employers to pay seekers their worth, and to give keepers a raise or immunity from pay cuts. Whatever side you're on, you can win the compensation game during a recession.

For Job Seekers

The good news is you can still nail a job offer -- by networking, targeting recession-proof industries or blogging and volunteering. The bad news: A possible lower starting offer.

The question has gone from "What am I worth?" to "What am I worth during a recession?" and "What is my industry worth during a recession?"

Business majors, who previously enjoyed strong year-by-year starting salary increases, will see a plateau this year. According to BusinessWeek, the average accounting starting salary of $47,429 is not budging -- with rising inflation, that could be interpreted as a decline.

So how can you cope with the current wage inertia?

1. Think long term.

Some economists argue that cyclic recessions are necessary for economic growth. Keep this irony in mind as you use this time to sow your marketability by earning an online degree and finish industry-relevant personal or freelance projects.

Leery of a lower salary? Lower compensation is a small price to pay for long-term promotions, bonuses and stock-based retention awards. Starting salaries in nursing and teaching are in the strong mid-$40,000s, but may plateau soon. In sales or marketing, you may start with a smaller base salary. But after accruing commissions, promotions and loyal clients, top performers can double or triple their starting income.

2. Be a lifelong learner.

During the downturn, many graduates are seeking MBAs or graduate degrees instead of instant-payoff jobs in business and health, according to a University of Washington study. Programs like Kaplan are seeing recent double-digit increases in enrollment. On average the payoff, though it takes longer, can be up to a $37,265 difference between a bachelor's and a doctorate (U.S. Census Bureau).

For Job Keepers

The good news is, you've dodged the dreaded pink slip. The bad news is that lagging share prices, clients late on bill payments and industry-wide downturns (all symptoms of a recession) can add up to a pay cut. So how do you keep the both the salary and the job you deserve?

1. Sweeten the sour news.

Research your worth, by documenting ROI from a project you implemented, or salary comparison from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. (Note: Union wage concessions may require a different process).

Negotiation can help you compensate for a lowered compensation: Telecommuting, reduced hours or stock-based retention options. Sometimes a pay cut can actually lead to lower taxes, same take-home pay and larger pensions.

2. Be pink-slip, interview-ready.

In dire situations, you may not be able to avoid massive layoffs. Your paycheck's buying power is already down 1 percent, according to the Economic Policy Institute. It's time to pack lunches, sock away long-term savings funds and avoid loans and credit cards -- while keeping your resume and interview suit fresh for the rebound.

The bottom line for keepers and seekers: You can save your own bottom line if you adapt wisely as the economy appears to bottom out.

For more information on career development and education opportunities, visit EarnMyDegree.com.

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Survey: Recession Fears Put Vacations at Risk

Experts Offer 10 Ways to Take a Necessary Break
by Tom Musbach, Yahoo! HotJobs


The slowdown in the U.S. economy is threatening a necessity for workers: vacations.

According to the annual Yahoo! HotJobs vacation survey, 51% of respondents said they plan to skip taking a vacation this year, opting to save money instead.

Not a Frivolous Matter

"Vacations are usually the first thing to go when people feel job or economic pressure," says Joe Robinson, a trainer in work-life balance and author of "Work to Live." He continues, "We're programmed to believe that free time is worthless, a frill to shove aside, but vacations are as important as watching your cholesterol or getting exercise."

Skipping a vacation can also be bad for your employer.

Milo and Thuy Sindell, founders of Hit the Ground Running and authors of "Job Spa," say, "You are not helpful to the company and your coworkers when you are not operating at full capacity. Vacations help you to get rejuvenated to come back to work at full capacity."

Make It Work With Less

For those tempted to skip vacation this year due to financial worries, experts recommend the following tips:

* Remind yourself: Vacation is not a luxury. "You owe it to yourself, your family, and your company to take care of yourself by stepping out of the office for at least a few days at a time," says Liz Bywater, president of the Bywater Consulting Group, which helps improve organizational performance.

* Put aside some funds each week. "Even $50 a week [or less] can add up and make your trip happen," says Robinson.

* Plan leisure activities near home. "Stay at home and read, garden, hike, jog, bike, or whatever you like to do but never have enough time for during the weekends," say the Sindells. "Or be a tourist in your own city."

* Try home-swapping. You can swap with someone you know in another city, or use an online service, such as homexchange.com or even vrbo.com (Vacation Rentals by Owner). "It can have the look and feel of a vacation at a much more affordable housing cost than paying for hotel or resort lodging," says Michael Haubrich, president of Financial Service Group and an expert in financial planning for career issues.

* Keep the itinerary simple. Travel columnist Donald D. Groff recommends selecting a destination within 200 miles (a three-hour drive) from your home. If you're traveling by plane, fly nonstop whenever possible. "The sooner you get to your destination, the sooner your relaxation begins," Groff says.

Stress-Busting Strategies

The economic downturn is also adding to workers' stress levels. Nearly a third of the respondents (31%) are worried by how the economy is affecting their workplaces, and 34% said they feel pressure to improve their performance for fear of being laid off.

With 55% of respondents admitted to being "burned out" by work, stress and fatigue add another threat to vacations. Experts say you can prevent the threat in the following ways:

* Start small. "Start with an afternoon off to do something you really enjoy, even if it's just a walk at the beach or a visit to a farmer's market," says Beth A. Levin, author of "Making a Richer, More Fulfilling Life a Reality."

* If planning is a burden, don't. "Instead of planning a vacation, just take time off to be at home and figure it out each day as you go," the Sindells suggest.

* Enlist back-up support. Ask a trusted coworker to back you up while you're away and offer to return the favor, Bywater suggests. "It's much easier to relax when you know someone's got you covered."

* Choose according to what you need. You may need a peaceful retreat from stress, or you may benefit from something more active and exciting. "Avoid the kind of vacation that will leave you even more exhausted than before," she adds.

* Give yourself a deadline. "Stop thinking about it and just do it," says Bywater. "Think of it as 'doctor's orders.'"

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The Corporate Crystal Ball: Future Workplace Trends

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


The experts at Challenger, Gray and Christmas, the nation's first and premier outplacement consulting organization, have looked into the future to forecast what you can expect from the corporate world in the years to come. Curious? Read on to find out how and where you work today may be different than tomorrow.

1. Four-Day Workweeks (and Three-Day Weekends!)

The rising costs of fuel are driving some employers to allow workers to make their four-day workweek fantasy a reality. While not all professions provide all employees the opportunity to perform all their tasks in a fewer days, Challenger, Gray & Christmas reports, "Twenty-three percent of companies are now offering a condensed workweek, typically consisting of four 10-hour days."

Not everyone has to put in a full, 40-hour week to be effective. "With the latest productivity-enhancing tools, some workers are able to get their work done in a four-day, 32-hour week," says John Challenger, CEO of the outplacement firm.

2. Shape Up or Pay Up

Health-care insurance continues to take a big bite of everyone's bottom line. Expect employers to take a more personal interest in your well-being through mandatory corporate wellness programs. Challenger, Gray & Christmas predict, "Office equipment such as Steelcase's WalkStations, which allow workers to walk on treadmills while at their computers, will catch on nationwide." You can also look forward to your employer taking an interest in unhealthy behaviors you may engage in outside the office.

"More companies will follow the lead of one Indiana company, which announced that workers who allow health risks such as tobacco use, obesity or high cholesterol to go unchecked will pay more for their company health insurance beginning in 2009," says Challenger.

3. Why Your Degree May Be Company-Sponsored

College, or even graduate school, doesn't necessarily leave you prepared for the particular practices of a certain company. So that workers can hit the ground running, work more efficiently, and advance more quickly, Challenger, Gray & Christmas believe that large corporations will begin to create their own degree programs.

"Companies will initiate entire programs with precise coursework centered around their company culture and goals, eliminating the need for extensive on-the-job training, and saving both the company and the workers thousands of dollars," Challenger says.

4. Recruitment Goes Global

If you ever dreamed of working in another country, the possibility is drawing ever closer. Challenger explains, "The expansion of the global economy will likely lead to a global talent pool where companies will aggressively pursue the best available workers, regardless of where they reside." The firm's research reveals that corporations in Europe and Asia have already increased their efforts to recruit foreign talent -- yet another reason to keep your passport current!

5. Kiss Your Cube Goodbye

Are you tired of the solitude of your cubicle? If so, John Challenger's got some good news for you. "In order to maximize employee interaction and teamwork, many companies will eliminate the isolating cube and redesign their workspace to feature common areas, conference rooms, and tables, as opposed to individual desks." Look for greater access to wireless so that you can work in different locations with your laptop -- and increased opportunities for telecommuting.

6. HQ's Get 86'd

The image of a hulking headquarters building will fade as fast as old newspapers in the years to come. Challenger, Gray & Christmas are envisioning the death of "Death Star"-like behemoths at which all employees must work. Instead, says Challenger, "In an effort to cut real-estate costs, become more eco-friendly and attract the growing number of works who want increased work-life balance, more and more companies will adopt a 'work wherever you want, whenever you want' policy."

If professionals require a traditional office, they will "work in leased office space close to their homes." Some companies are already embracing this forward-thinking notion, including AT&T, Best Buy, and Sun Microsystems, the latter of which estimates that it saved $400 million in real-estate costs over a six-year period, according to Challenger's research.

7. Athletes Aren't the Only Free Agents

Baseball and basketball players, among others, aren't the only talented people who can be free agents. Expect more white-collar workers to follow their example. "The move to hiring temporary and contract employees, freelancers and consultants is beneficial for both companies and workers," Challenger says.

Companies, he believes, will save money and can add support on an as-needed basis while free agents enjoy flexibility in terms of when they work and types of projects they accept while also increasing their earning potential. And this prediction is already taking root, as Challenger, Gray & Christmas reveal that more than one-third of the U.S. workforce will be comprised of free agents by the year 2012 (according to market research firm EPIC-MRA).

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Vacation-Planning Primer

A Strategic Approach to Preparing for a Restful Break
by Doug White, Robert Half International


When did relaxing become so stressful? For many busy professionals, the thought of preparing for a week or two away from the office is so burdensome that they forgo the hard-earned break altogether. After all, it's difficult to recharge when you go into a vacation exhausted, then spend every moment worried about the mountain of work you'll return to.

If this sounds familiar, consider the following tips for planning a more restful respite:

Recognize the rewards of relaxation. Whether you head to the French Riviera or stay in your hometown, stepping away to focus on something other than work is healthy -- and necessary. Decompressing for a week or two can increase your on-the-job effectiveness. In a Robert Half International survey, a majority of executives said that employees are more productive after a vacation.

Be time-sensitive. Another survey by our company shows that employers prefer that their teams take scheduled time off during the summer. Thirty-six percent of executives said August is the most favorable month for staff to take vacations; 21 percent said July. While workload peaks and valleys vary from organization to organization, help yourself (and your coworkers) by choosing a time when activity slows.

Create an action plan. Make a prioritized to-do list broken down into (a) assignments you absolutely must complete before leaving, (b) tasks that can be handled by others while you're away, and (c) work that can wait until you return. Meet with your supervisor to ensure that you're both on the same page. If you are worried about projects that need to be completed while you're away, ask your manager about bringing in temporary workers to help keep assignments on track. Also, arrange your schedule so that you can complete the majority of your action items before your last day. You'll spare yourself some grief by building in extra time to handle any last-minute requests.

Identify a point person. While several team members may pitch in to maintain workflow in your absence, ask one trusted colleague to serve as the point person. Tidy up your work area and show him or her where you keep pivotal information -- both electronically and on your desk. Moreover, consider providing written instructions for resolving some of the most common issues you encounter. Foster goodwill by letting your backup know that you'll happily return the favor when it's his or her time to hit the beach.

Use technology to your advantage. It's best to provide key colleagues, customers and clients with a few weeks' notice before taking off. But don't forget to leave thorough out-of-office email and voice-mail messages noting how long you'll be gone and the names and contact information of those who are covering for you. In addition, go through your email inbox and delete nonessential messages to free up space for bulky files that may be sent while you're gone.

Finally, set firm boundaries. Request that you either not be contacted during your vacation or only in the event of an emergency. And be disciplined about disconnecting. If you think you'll be tempted to check your email remotely or call into the office for status updates, take a break from your electronic gadgets, too. Remember: To truly derive the benefits of a vacation, you must give yourself permission to simply relax and enjoy yourself.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices throughout North America, South America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com. For additional workplace articles and podcasts, visit workvine.com.

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The Rules of Workplace Style

Fashion Tips for Men and Women
by Robert DiGiacomo, for Yahoo! HotJobs


The power suits for men and women may no longer set the style standard in today's "business casual" workplace, but how you dress for the office still matters.

"People who dress better are typically treated better at work," says David McKnight, a New York City-based image consultant. "They are usually given more responsibility and are shown much more respect."

Here are tips on what to wear -- and what not -- so you can make the best impression on your boss, your colleagues, and your clients.

The Big No-No's

Business casual isn't a fashion free-for-all, says Susan Bixler, president and founder of the Bixler Consulting Group.

The Atlanta-based consultant has created guidelines for business-casual dress for those just starting out, workers at mid-career, and those eyeing the executive suite.

The "baseline" look starts with three no-no's -- no flip-flops, no jeans, and no visible tattoos -- and calls for tailored trousers and long-sleeve shirts or tops for men and women.

The "mid-stream" look is similar but with an emphasis on higher-quality fabrics. The executive version ups the sartorial ante by recommending jackets for men and trouser-style suits for women.

"Any time you want to add authority, put on the jacket," says Bixler, the author of seven books, including "The New Professional Image: From Business Casual to the Ultimate Power Look."

All Suited Up

If you're unsure about the dress code -- or lack thereof -- for a prospective employer, you can ask in advance. But McKnight believes you really can't go wrong by donning a jacket or wearing a suit.

"A suit is a nonverbal way of communicating to the employer that you really want the position and that you are taking the interview extremely seriously," he says.

Style Challenges

Women, advises Bixler, should avoid too much of a good thing, whether it's clothes that are too tight, or too much make up, jewelry, or fragrance.

Men often make the mistake of showing up in casual clothing more appropriate for poker night with the guys than the office, or showing up at work unshaven or with dirty, unpolished shoes.

"There's an expectation [for both sexes] to look professional," Bixler says. "Women have more opportunity to make mistakes because there are more options for women. For men, it's more straightforward."

Too Much Skin

Edgy looks, especially those involving the baring of cleavage, skin or tattoos, rarely cut it at the office, unless you happen to work in a trend-conscious field like advertising or fashion.

"When you're not sure whether something is appropriate for work, then there's a 98 percent chance that it's not," McKnight says.

The Whole Look

Choosing the right clothing is just one component of your professional look, which includes good grooming and hygiene, as well as being well-rested and mentally ready to face the day.

"There are so many things we don't have control over, but what we can control is the image of professionalism we show to the world," Bixler says.

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Not All Artists Starve: Creative Jobs That Pay Well

by Aimee Chou, EarnMyDegree.com


The myth of the "starving artist" has painted a liberal-arts or fine-arts degree as a death knell to financial stability, leading some "creatives" to become accountants instead. But is the myth really true?

Less Wonk, More Warhol

Without an MBA or M.D., you can still have a well-paying career. Now is an ideal time to embrace your right brain, with a few guidelines:

Go digital. Oil never goes out of style, but pixels pay better in today's market. Invest in a raster-based digital paint application, to stay in tune with the times and still somewhat true to traditional media.

Major in business, minor in fine arts. Like supply and demand, marketing and fine arts are two sides of the same coin. Learn to sketch out a business plan, and your art just might thrive.

Market yourself. Artists starve when commercialism doesn't match creativity. Talent notwithstanding, your work must endear you to a gallery or company's bottom line via marketing or target audience analysis.

Think "four tiers." Artists fit into one of four categories, and so do their income brackets (median salaries from the Bureau of Labor Statistics):

* Art director: Oversees design, layout, copywriting, and more. $68,100
* Multi-media artist: Animators, graphic designers, and game developers. $51,350
* Fine artist: Painters, sculptors, and illustrators. $41,970
* Craft artist: Works ceramics, textiles, stained glass, and more. $24, 090


Hot Art-Related Fields

According to Daniel Pink, author of "A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future," left-brained jobs are increasingly outsourced. What remains are more art-related opportunities than ever -- requiring intuition, pattern recognition, and holistic meaning (salaries from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unless otherwise noted):

Postsecondary teacher. Art is back -- and bigger than ever -- on the curriculum. Neuroimaging studies show that the arts affect student cognition, reigniting a hot career path. From music to performing arts schools, students everywhere need inspiring teachers. Median Salary: $51,240.

Greeting card writer. Make a living by making people laugh, cry and reminisce. Half sentimental and half humor, this $7.5 billion industry is perfect for creative freelancers. Salary: Two tiers of payment range from $35-$50 to $75-$125 per assignment (Greeting Card Association).

Grant writer. Even if art grew on trees, funding it doesn't. For performing, visual, and literary arts organizations, it comes from compelling proposals. As a bonus, you'll vicariously indulge in the excitement of watching art come to life. Median Salary: $49,623.

Video game developer. This industry never sleeps, as gamers are always waiting for the "next big thing." Don't snooze on the chance to turn your hobby into a vocation -- as a software tester, documentation writer and more. Median Salary: $51,350 (multi-media artists).

Architect. This dual-brained career is growing fast to accommodate infrastructure changes. For a surefire foot in the door, add computer-aided design and drafting technology skills to your portfolio. Median Salary: $62,960.

Curator. Love all things historic, aesthetic, and preserved? As a curator, you'll wear multiple hats doing what you love -- including administration, PR, fundraising, and technology (like digital imaging and scanning technology). Median Salary: $46,300.

Brand manager. More globalization, products, and competition means more careers. Managers mix creativity with business smarts to differentiate one brand among many and ultimately maximize product sales. Median Salary: $72,620.

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8 Steps for Staying Stress-Free in a Tough Economy

by Caroline Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs


It seems we've become a bad news nation as of late, with one headline after the next forecasting economic gloom and doom. Looming layoffs, pricey holidays, and even the coming election may have you on edge and stressed out. But stress is bad for your health and it's also bad for business.

Fear not, though. "The good news is that stress can be managed. Kept in its rightful place, stress will keep you motivated without overwhelming you -- or overshadowing your capabilities," says Liz Bywater, Ph.D., a behavioral change agent. Use her eight tips to manage your stress so you can manage to do (and keep) your job.

1. Breathe. It sounds simple, but Bywater reminds readers, "As our bodies respond to stress, our breathing tends to become rapid and shallow. By deliberately slowing your breathing and taking deep, calming breaths, you will help your mind and body relax and refocus."

2. Eat right. If you're eating on the go, without putting thought into what you're consuming, odds are that it isn't good for you. She states, "A diet of processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats -- typical of vending machine and fast food dining -- leaves you depleted of energy and unable to give your all." Put time into planning to eat healthful meals and stay hydrated. Adds Bywater, "You'll more than make up any lost time through improved productivity and increased focus."

3. Exercise. It's impossible to find the time to exercise -- you have to make the time. Bywater believes that a key to committing to regular exercise is to "find what you like and do it." With regular exercise, she says, "You'll feel calmer, more in control, and better able to take on the every day pressures and demands of work. I recently started boxing on my daughter's Wii system. It's a great cardio workout and a fun way to release the day's tensions!"

4. Sleep. In times of stress, the worst thing you can do is skimp on sleep. Bywater recommends six to eight hours of undisrupted sleep a night to make sure you've got enough fuel to perform under pressure. She suggests, "Establish regular nighttime routines, stay away from caffeine, put away the laptop, and listen to music or read a good book before going to sleep each night."

5. Keep your eye on the big picture. It's easy to get bogged down in day-to-day minutiae ? but remember to think big. Advises Bywater, "Don't waste precious time on low impact, non-essential tasks. Instead, dedicate your time and attention to those activities that move you in the direction of reaching your vision and achieving your goals."

6. Share the load. Even Superman and Wonder Woman got an assist from some of their Superfriends from time to time. She insists, "No matter how talented or experienced you may be, you simply cannot do it all." Instead of striving to be a solo act, says Bywater, "Delegate where appropriate. Collaborate. Divvy the workload. Share responsibility for the final product." If you follow her cues, everyone shares in the glory.

7. Strive for success -- not perfection. The best way to set yourself up for failure is to pursue perfection. Perfectionists are not only procrastinators -- they usually fail to appreciate their successes. To avoid this trap, Bywater recommends, "Do your job well, really well, and your achievements will be recognized and rewarded."

8. Celebrate your wins. A professional psychologist, Bywater points out, "It's not unusual for high performers to continually raise the bar for themselves, but it's vital to balance this striving for excellence with a healthy celebration of successes." She suggests taking time out to acknowledge your accomplishments. "Celebrating success is a wonderful antidote to stress," she adds.

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Are You and Your Boss Compatible?

Tips for Working With Different Boss Personality Types
by Bridget Quigg and Lydia West, PayScale.com


Every relationship has its own set of issues -- even, and maybe especially, the relationship you have with your boss. The secret is discovering the best ways to work with your particular boss and all the preferences and personality traits they bring to the table.

Whether your boss is a charming hand-shaker or prefers spreadsheets to people, we have some advice on how to create the best possible working relationship with the person who holds the fate of your paycheck in their hands.

Boss Type: The Performer

New client dropping by in five minutes? Sounds great! Last-minute presentation? No problem! This extrovert thrives under pressure and loves to entertain clients (and everyone else). He's very comfortable taking center stage, whether it be in the board room, at a client dinner or around the water cooler.

The Pros:

* Keeps the office atmosphere more fun and lively.
* Very good at reading others and making them feel at ease.

The Cons:

* May try too often to jump in and "help you" during a presentation or meeting.
* Prefers to leave the details to someone else.

Most compatible employees for the Performer: Detail-oriented planners who know just when to bring the boss in to charm big clients or partners.

Best strategies for working with the Performer: If you're less than comfortable speaking in public or schmoozing with clients, take the opportunity to learn from your boss. He'll likely be happy to help you grow in an area where he feels strong. On the other hand, if you find you're regularly being edged out of the spotlight in meetings, have a quick conversation to let him know you're trying to improve your leadership skills and would like to have the floor more often.

Boss Type: The Dreamer

From new locations and bigger profits to more employees and brand new product lines, this person is great at coming up with new, creative ideas.

The Pros:

* Always willing to push the envelope and innovate.
* Inspires other with their enthusiasm.

The Cons:

* Does not always consider the logistics needed to turn their "big ideas" into reality.
* Is ready to move on to another project before the last one is complete.

Most compatible employees for the Dreamer: Realists with vision. A boss whose head is in the clouds needs employees who will help them focus their energy on the best of their ideas and develop plans to make those dreams a reality.

Best strategies for working with the Dreamer: If it doesn't already exist, suggest a process for vetting ideas before they make it to a planning stage. If an idea holds up to close scrutiny, do the work needed to set a schedule and keep the project moving forward. Keep your boss engaged and excited about the project by scheduling regular progress meetings. Be sure to enlist their help to work through interesting challenges that arise.

Boss Type: The Cheerleader

Your email to that client? Fantastic! Your comments during that meeting? Brilliant! Your boss thinks that everything you do is wonderful, or at least that's what they tell you.

The Pros:

* Helps boost your confidence about your skills and potential.
* Does not wallow in difficulties or obstacles and keeps morale high.

The Cons:

* Hides more critical feedback that could help you learn your job better.
* Does not predict potential difficulties and plan for them.

Most compatible employees for the Cheerleader: Independent workers who don't require a lot of hand-holding or specific direction to do their job well.

Best strategies for working with the Cheerleader: Everyone likes to feel appreciated, so that shower of compliments about your most recent presentation can be wonderful to hear, but if you're never challenged to improve, it's easy to get bored ... or worse, blindsided. The danger here is that your boss may have issues with your performance and just has a hard time expressing it. While asking for critical feedback can seem like a foolish endeavor, ensuring that you truly know how your boss views your job performance is critical to your success. Be as specific as possible about what you want to know. Ask questions like, "I feel like I let that meeting get a little off-topic. Do you have any tips for me to handle things better next time?"

Boss Type: The Super Achiever

Another spreadsheet? More meetings? Tighter deadlines? This person loves to say, "Sure, we can do that!" They're happy to hustle and keep the business coming in.

The Pros:

* Helps increase everyone's earnings by attracting customers.
* Is confident that anything is possible.

The Cons:

* Can lack realistic expectations about timelines and deliverables.
* Has a hard time setting boundaries with clients.

Most compatible employees for the Super Achiever: Good communicators who aren't afraid to push back, especially when they think taking on additional work might put other projects in jeopardy.

Best strategies for working with the Super Achiever: The key to working with a Super Achiever is knowing when to rein in expectations and when to just roll with the extra work. You don't want your boss to view you as a naysayer. Rather than exclaiming, "There's no way we can take that on," help your boss see how everything can be achieved in a more realistic timeframe. Another good idea is to keep a running list of your projects and schedule a regular meeting with your boss to review and prioritize them. This way both of you know what you're working on and hopefully, you can collectively set more realistic expectations that won't have you working an 80-hour week.

Job Info , Jobs Sources , Career Opportunity

Competition: Is It Helping or Hurting Your Career?

5 Ways to Tell the Difference
by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Bosses like to hire and promote workers with a competitive drive, who want to win enough that they'll put in extra effort.

They have a lot of competitive candidates to choose from: A recent OfficeTeam survey of 150 executives from large U.S. companies found that almost half the executives thought employees are more competitive with each other today than they were 10 years ago.

Boost From a Tight Market

There may be another reason for employees to try to do better than the coworker in the next cubicle, too. "With the uncertain economy, many employees become concerned about job security," said Dave Willmer, executive director of OfficeTeam, an administrative staffing firm and a division of Robert Half International.

Still, it's possible to be so competitive that you hurt your career rather than help it.

"You probably want to stay away from pushing people aside in order to get ahead," Willmer said.

How to Assess Yourself

How can you tell if your competition with your coworkers will enhance your career or derail it? Experts suggest asking these questions:

* What is the culture of your company and department? Do the top leaders foster competition among employees (by running internal contests, for example), or do they emphasize team accomplishments?

The answer may depend on your specific job. For example, sales teams tend to encourage competition more than, say, customer-service groups.

* Are you playing fair? You may see short-term benefits from succeeding at the expense of your coworkers, but you'll hurt your career in the long run. Bad-mouthing colleagues to others, for example, will cause you to lose credibility.

Taking sole credit for a team project is another way to hurt you career. So is being overly critical of coworkers or the company.

* What are the consequences of your competiveness? It's possible to harm your co-workers -- and yourself -- without meaning to. For example, if you're so focused on your own work that you don't take the time to pass on a crucial lead to a coworker until it's too late to be helpful, you could get a reputation as an uncooperative colleague.

* Are you focused on the team? Marianne Adoradio, a Silicon Valley recruiter and career counselor, suggests asking yourself whether you're taking an action because you want the team to do well or because you want yourself to do well. "People always want to know that you can really work with a team," she said.

Some ways to help the team: Recognize others' successes. Say thank-you in front of the boss. Managers will see a potential for leadership -- as long as you're sincere. "You don't want to overdo it," Willmer said.

* Are you excelling at your job? You may think that you don't need to worry much about the goals your boss has set for you, as long as you're doing better than the others on your team. But that's not necessarily true, Willmer said. Make sure you're meeting your boss' expectations, no matter what the others on your team are doing.

Job Info , Jobs Sources , Employment

6 Ways to Save for an Unexpected Job Loss

Tips for Building an Emergency Fund
by Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs


Coinciding with the tightening job market is a gloomy statistic: Few American workers are saving for potential layoffs. According to Adecco USA's latest Workplace Insights survey, only a quarter of workers claim to currently be saving for unemployment, and 58 percent have no plan to put money aside for a job loss.

You've probably heard that you should have at least six months' living expenses on hand. But how can you save for a rainy day when it's already drizzling, you say? If you're fully employed and you've been living paycheck-to-paycheck, you might not be looking for savings everywhere you can, according to Dayana Yochim, consumer finance expert at The Motley Fool. Yochim recommended six ways to begin starting that emergency fund today, no matter what your salary.

1. Sweat the big stuff first.
Before you start pinching pennies, look at the largest budget expenditures, such as car and vacations. "You can cut your car insurance significantly by raising the deductible," Yochim tells Yahoo! Hot Jobs. You can also downgrade your car. Even if you're upside-down on payments, trading in the new luxury car on a beater would put hundreds of dollars in your pocket per month, Yochim says. Likewise, if you must travel, look at ways to creatively downsize the trip: Do a house swap or stay at a bed-and-breakfast, for example.

2. Ditch the plastic.
"Cash hurts, and you're less likely to be conscientious if you're always using plastic," Yochim says. Likewise, if you're really strapped, only use your credit card to make essential purchases as a last resort. Yochim recommends making one withdrawal on Monday and spending no more than that all week.

3. Cut back on your 401(k) -- temporarily.
Normally, you should sock away the maximum in your retirement plan, especially if your employer is matching it. But if you're falling short each month and making up the difference with a credit card, cut back on the contributions until your finances are back in shape. "You must pinkie-swear you will start contributing the maximum as soon as your financial rough patch is over," Yochim advises.

4. Don't spend found money.
If you had a lucky streak at a casino or received an inheritance, save it, preferably in a high-yield savings account. Even if a layoff is not looming, think hard about automatically boosting your lifestyle if you received a raise or promotion.

5. Don't give Uncle Sam a free loan.
"Ideally you want to owe nothing and get nothing back on April 15," Yochim says. "If your tax return was more than $2,000 last year, you're withholding too much, so you should adjust your withholdings to keep more of it now." Check out the withholding calculator on IRS.gov, and then ask HR for a W4 form if you think you're paying the government too much, too early.

6. Don't mingle the emergency fund with everyday cash.
If you put your rainy day fund in a separate bank, you're not so likely to dip into it, according to Yochim. If you have direct deposit, your company may even be able to put part of your paycheck in a separate account.

Having enough money in an emergency fund can make the difference between discomfort and outright panic if you're laid off. However, some of these tips -- particularly the no-plastic rule -- can be effective ways to save even if you never see a pink slip, Yochim says.

"Everyone should have an emergency fund. And remember that a line of credit should never be considered an emergency fund."

Job Info , Jobs Sources , Career Opportunity