Archive for January, 2007
Home Based Business Ideas and Tips
Home Based Business Ideas and Tips :
There is no question that working from home can be fun. A lot of people find it hard to locate a job that can be done from home. Once they locate it, they might not be able to manage their projects. Here are a few tips for managing your home based business so it would run smoothly, no matter what it is.
Be a slave driver. You heard right. You must become the very man or woman you wanted to escape from when they were your employer. Newly self-employed folks are usually making the mistake of lacking the direction and guidance they were used to when employed by somebody else.http://legitimate-work-at-home-teens-jobs.blogspot.com
Stick to your prepared schedule. Do not permit yourself to be lazy. One of the greatest advantages of working from home is the freedom to set up your own hours, being able to do the things you like and work around them. The downside is that you can just as well put off your assignments and watch TV.
When you have a home based business you must set sensible working hours and stick to them. Of course, when Alice needs a ride to her piano lesson; when Jimmy is sick–you have the freedom of leaving your home office and taking care of them. But do not allow Alice and Jimmy distract you too often or your work will not be done. Remember: no work– no income.
Be on the watch. When you work from home you always have to look at the next project, the next great product, the next sale, depending on what business you are in.
It’s easy to get complacent when things are going good and expect that they always will. At those times work at home people often just go with the flow and stop searching new opportunities. That is a big mistake. If the work suddenly dries up, so does your income. If you’re working hard and have plenty of work, you certainly do not want to over burden yourself with more, but always keep an eye toward the horizon.
Always be on top of where available opportunities can be found. If you are into online sales and you are making money on eBay, never cease checking how others are working and making their fortune and put their methods into action for your own business.
The Internet is paved with money that could be yours, but starting your own home based business is for the determined and the courageous. If you have confidence in yourself, you can definitely make it. You will be self-employed, work your own hours from your home office and you will be able to generate a nice income.http://legitimate-work-at-home-teens-jobs.blogspot.com
By: Boris Tomson
About the Author:
There is no question that working from home can be fun. A lot of people find it hard to locate a job that can be done from home. Once they locate it, they might not be able to manage their projects. Here are a few tips for managing your home based business so it would run smoothly, no matter what it is.
Be a slave driver. You heard right. You must become the very man or woman you wanted to escape from when they were your employer. Newly self-employed folks are usually making the mistake of lacking the direction and guidance they were used to when employed by somebody else.http://legitimate-work-at-home-teens-jobs.blogspot.com
Stick to your prepared schedule. Do not permit yourself to be lazy. One of the greatest advantages of working from home is the freedom to set up your own hours, being able to do the things you like and work around them. The downside is that you can just as well put off your assignments and watch TV.
When you have a home based business you must set sensible working hours and stick to them. Of course, when Alice needs a ride to her piano lesson; when Jimmy is sick–you have the freedom of leaving your home office and taking care of them. But do not allow Alice and Jimmy distract you too often or your work will not be done. Remember: no work– no income.
Be on the watch. When you work from home you always have to look at the next project, the next great product, the next sale, depending on what business you are in.
It’s easy to get complacent when things are going good and expect that they always will. At those times work at home people often just go with the flow and stop searching new opportunities. That is a big mistake. If the work suddenly dries up, so does your income. If you’re working hard and have plenty of work, you certainly do not want to over burden yourself with more, but always keep an eye toward the horizon.
Always be on top of where available opportunities can be found. If you are into online sales and you are making money on eBay, never cease checking how others are working and making their fortune and put their methods into action for your own business.
The Internet is paved with money that could be yours, but starting your own home based business is for the determined and the courageous. If you have confidence in yourself, you can definitely make it. You will be self-employed, work your own hours from your home office and you will be able to generate a nice income.http://legitimate-work-at-home-teens-jobs.blogspot.com
By: Boris Tomson
About the Author:
Hi,I’m Boris.If you are looking for ways to make money and you want advice on the best work from home programs you have come to the right place. I was a researcher for Make Money Magazine for 11 years during that time I covered every make money program in the book. Five years ago when the “How To Make Money” market changed for the better because of the internet advances I decided to use the knowledge I gained from working for Make Money Magazine to quit this job and start up my own successful home business.I am now earning close to $90,000 every month from www.genbucks.com/?divya the home businesses I setup, so I haven’t looked back once. I have now devoted most of my life to the make money field and now I think it’s time to give something back, so I have decided to write this review site to tell people about the best home business programs around and what programs are just scams.If you are looking to purchase a proven, legitimate home business opportunity I highly recommend that you take a look at the programs I have suggested because out of the home business opportunities which I am currently using these are the ones which are making me the most money.Also my suggestions on how easy each program was to set up, their success rate and which programs are best vault for money.http://www.onlinesfortune.com
Boris Tomson.
10 Top Tips for Writing a Resume or Cv
Have you ever submitted a resume or CV to an employer and not received a call for an interview? It’s frustrating and leaves you wondering what you did wrong.
Remember that your resume/CV and cover letter are the first things that an employer will see – they are the first impression your potential employer has of you, so make them good.
Here are 10 top tips on writing a resume or CV. Follow these simple guidelines and you will improve your chances of getting a call inviting you to an interview.
Tips For Writing A Resume Or CV
Upon first glance is the resume or CV easy to read?
Always use BLACK ink to print a resume.
Use a standard font such as Arial or Times New Roman.
The font size should be no smaller than 10, but no larger than 12
Use a good quality resume paper for your resume.
Do not use your typical white paper.
A good color choice in paper would be a light off-white or cream paper
Run spell-check and correct any grammatical, punctuation, or spelling errors!
Have someone else read your resume if you do not have spell-check.
State previous job history in chronological order starting with most recent job first.
State Company name.
State your title.
State length of employment.
State responsibilities or duties.
If there are any large gaps in between jobs, explain them.
Concentrate on skills and achievement relevant to the position you are applying for.
Does your resume objective sell you? A good resume objective should state:
The job you’re applying for.
Why you’re the best candidate.
What you can bring to the company.
Keep your resume as short as possible.
If possible keep it to one page but not more than two pages.
You can make a statement that further information is available upon request or refer to an appendix for less relevant information.
Be honest.
Do not profess skills you do not have.
Do not exaggerate lengths of employment to cover up gaps.
Make sure it’s relevant.
Tailor your resume or CV to each job you’re applying for. Employers like to see you have singled their job out particularly.
Make sure to follow instructions.
If an employer requests a resume via regular mail, email, faxed, etc. submit your resume as requested.
In your cover letter make sure you make mention of the specific job you are submitting a resume for.
Keep your cover letter short and to the point.
State the position for which you are applying for and where you saw it.
Make a statement such as “I have” such and such experience.
Make a statement such as “I can” do such and such for your company.
Make a statement such as “I am” looking for a position that …
Make a closing statement thanking the employer for their time and saying you look forward to hearing from them.
If you follow these simple guidelines when writing a resume or CV, you will present yourself in a favorable way. Employers are looking for employees that can stand out above the rest of the applicants that are vying for the same position. By catching their eye with a professional, relevant and interesting resume, and presenting the facts in a way that the employer does not have to search for them, you are showing the employer that you take pride in your work. This is what every employer wants.
By: Catherine Z Jones
About the Author:
Remember that your resume/CV and cover letter are the first things that an employer will see – they are the first impression your potential employer has of you, so make them good.
Here are 10 top tips on writing a resume or CV. Follow these simple guidelines and you will improve your chances of getting a call inviting you to an interview.
Tips For Writing A Resume Or CV
Upon first glance is the resume or CV easy to read?
Always use BLACK ink to print a resume.
Use a standard font such as Arial or Times New Roman.
The font size should be no smaller than 10, but no larger than 12
Use a good quality resume paper for your resume.
Do not use your typical white paper.
A good color choice in paper would be a light off-white or cream paper
Run spell-check and correct any grammatical, punctuation, or spelling errors!
Have someone else read your resume if you do not have spell-check.
State previous job history in chronological order starting with most recent job first.
State Company name.
State your title.
State length of employment.
State responsibilities or duties.
If there are any large gaps in between jobs, explain them.
Concentrate on skills and achievement relevant to the position you are applying for.
Does your resume objective sell you? A good resume objective should state:
The job you’re applying for.
Why you’re the best candidate.
What you can bring to the company.
Keep your resume as short as possible.
If possible keep it to one page but not more than two pages.
You can make a statement that further information is available upon request or refer to an appendix for less relevant information.
Be honest.
Do not profess skills you do not have.
Do not exaggerate lengths of employment to cover up gaps.
Make sure it’s relevant.
Tailor your resume or CV to each job you’re applying for. Employers like to see you have singled their job out particularly.
Make sure to follow instructions.
If an employer requests a resume via regular mail, email, faxed, etc. submit your resume as requested.
In your cover letter make sure you make mention of the specific job you are submitting a resume for.
Keep your cover letter short and to the point.
State the position for which you are applying for and where you saw it.
Make a statement such as “I have” such and such experience.
Make a statement such as “I can” do such and such for your company.
Make a statement such as “I am” looking for a position that …
Make a closing statement thanking the employer for their time and saying you look forward to hearing from them.
If you follow these simple guidelines when writing a resume or CV, you will present yourself in a favorable way. Employers are looking for employees that can stand out above the rest of the applicants that are vying for the same position. By catching their eye with a professional, relevant and interesting resume, and presenting the facts in a way that the employer does not have to search for them, you are showing the employer that you take pride in your work. This is what every employer wants.
By: Catherine Z Jones
About the Author:
We are 4 interviewers with over 67 years of recruitment experience between us and we want to help you snag a job — your dream job. Our website provides free help and advice on all aspects of finding a job, from cover letters and resumes, to sample interview questions and answers.
How to Close a High-Paying Job Deal… 5 Tips!
We all pray for that magic moment when we’re offered a job deal. But having an employer put a deal on the table and accepting a final job offer are two different things.
For example, is it the RIGHT deal? And is it the best you can do?
Here are some alternative job search tips to keep in mind as you approach a bonafide job offer.
1. Although you may think that an employer’s decision about you is based on your resume or your work history–it’s not. Employers could really care less about what you used to do for someone else. They’ll have an interest in you because they see you fitting in as a productive member of the team. This is what you want to probe and understand because this is where you have job deal leverage.
2. So, few job offers look exactly like the job description that may have attracted you to a job opportunity. In fact, as an employer gets to know you, the job deal itself is often tailored to accommodate strengths and capabilities that an employer has discovered in you as he/she has gotten to know you. This gives you the ability to help shape the job description to fit you goals.
3. Remember, if you can’t get past an “interview” relationship, you’ll never get a job deal. The reason for that is that an employer is going to hire you because they feel a connection to you that goes way beyond how well you answer interview questions. In short, the hiring decision-maker has to like you.
4. You accomplish this critical rapport and chemistry that’s absolutely essential to a job deal by taking the time to learn something about the goals of the organization and specifically what are the hot buttons of the decision-maker who could be your next boss. The better prepared you come to the table the more say you’ll have about how the job description can confirm to your own needs and the more leverage you’ll to negotiate the best possible job deal.
5. Everything is negotiable if you’ve built a solid communication base with the hiring decision-maker. This means not relying on your resume to sell you to him/her. It means, instead, coming forward with a proposal (preferably written) that demonstrates how you would deal with specific organizational issues and addressing the passion of the employer.
Now, if these ideas aren’t consistent with what you thought a job deal is all about, that’s because you’re still, thinking inside the box–specifically the old-fashioned 20th Century box. That’s the one where everything is contingent on well you’ve written your resume. Hey! . . . New century . . . new job market . . . new expectations! Better jump aboard the 21st Century alternative job search system and non-traditional career advancement approach!
By: Paul Megan
About the Author:
For example, is it the RIGHT deal? And is it the best you can do?
Here are some alternative job search tips to keep in mind as you approach a bonafide job offer.
1. Although you may think that an employer’s decision about you is based on your resume or your work history–it’s not. Employers could really care less about what you used to do for someone else. They’ll have an interest in you because they see you fitting in as a productive member of the team. This is what you want to probe and understand because this is where you have job deal leverage.
2. So, few job offers look exactly like the job description that may have attracted you to a job opportunity. In fact, as an employer gets to know you, the job deal itself is often tailored to accommodate strengths and capabilities that an employer has discovered in you as he/she has gotten to know you. This gives you the ability to help shape the job description to fit you goals.
3. Remember, if you can’t get past an “interview” relationship, you’ll never get a job deal. The reason for that is that an employer is going to hire you because they feel a connection to you that goes way beyond how well you answer interview questions. In short, the hiring decision-maker has to like you.
4. You accomplish this critical rapport and chemistry that’s absolutely essential to a job deal by taking the time to learn something about the goals of the organization and specifically what are the hot buttons of the decision-maker who could be your next boss. The better prepared you come to the table the more say you’ll have about how the job description can confirm to your own needs and the more leverage you’ll to negotiate the best possible job deal.
5. Everything is negotiable if you’ve built a solid communication base with the hiring decision-maker. This means not relying on your resume to sell you to him/her. It means, instead, coming forward with a proposal (preferably written) that demonstrates how you would deal with specific organizational issues and addressing the passion of the employer.
Now, if these ideas aren’t consistent with what you thought a job deal is all about, that’s because you’re still, thinking inside the box–specifically the old-fashioned 20th Century box. That’s the one where everything is contingent on well you’ve written your resume. Hey! . . . New century . . . new job market . . . new expectations! Better jump aboard the 21st Century alternative job search system and non-traditional career advancement approach!
By: Paul Megan
About the Author:
Paul Megan writes for EEI, the world-class pioneer in alternative job search techniques and non-traditional career advancement strategies . . . since 1985. Grab our stunning FREE REPORT: “How To Find A Job In As Little As 14 Days!” Click on RSS for instant info! http://www.fastest-job-search.com
Tips On Internet Design And Development Contracting
Freelance work has always been a staple of the capable entrepreneur. People who are self-employed know that a life contracting isn’t as easy as working for a corporation. Sometimes, the contracts can be overwhelming as clients become increasingly difficult.
Here are some tips for working on the internet as a contractor.
Tip 1. Finding Contracts:
There are many ways to find contracts. The best way to do this on the Internet is to network with people in the industry and look for advertisements on sites such as craigslist.com. Finding a contract is only the first step on your road to financial freedom.
Tip 2. Accepting and Winning the Contract:
Make sure the contract is right for you. The contract should be within your capabilities and abilities before you accept it. Once you find the right job, you’ll need to win over the company that’s going to be paying you. To do this, you’ll have to meet their specific requirement as well as provide them with assurances that you’re the perfect fit. A lot of developers will refer to a personal portfolio of websites designed, or graphics created. This is a sure-fire way to let the client know you’re serious about contract employment.
Tip 3. Make Sure They Can Pay You:
It might sound funny, but there are plenty of contracts out there, but not all of the clients are willing to pay, or are able to pay. Small businesses are the backbone of society, and in a poor economy, no one is safe. Make sure the company you contract for is able to pay you upon completion. Always ask for a deposit. Depending on your personal reputation, ask for an amount that will work for you. Typically, designers charge a 50% deposit for a website after giving an initial estimate. You are the best person to give this estimate because only you will know how long it will take to develop for your client.
Tip 4. Don’t Sell Yourself Short:
Selling yourself short can be devastating to your career. Undercutting another developer is also a poor way to build your portfolio. When you give your rate, the client may see this as your skill level if other developers they are interviewing or in negotiations with give a higher rate. Lower rates will drive up competition and ultimately bring down the cost of contracts in the market. If you sell yourself short, you sell everyone short.
Tip 5. Referrals:
Ask for referrals. In all my years contracting, referrals have made my business succeed beyond anything I could have ever imagined! Developing good relationships with your clients and your clients’ friends will benefit in the long run. This will complete the cycle of finding and developing contract web jobs. Remember, it never hurts to ask-especially if it’ll help make you more money.
Learning how to find contracts and maintain clients is vital to a career in freelancing on the internet. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be when meeting new clients and writing proposals! Good luck!
By: Eddie Phanichkul
About the Author:
Here are some tips for working on the internet as a contractor.
Tip 1. Finding Contracts:
There are many ways to find contracts. The best way to do this on the Internet is to network with people in the industry and look for advertisements on sites such as craigslist.com. Finding a contract is only the first step on your road to financial freedom.
Tip 2. Accepting and Winning the Contract:
Make sure the contract is right for you. The contract should be within your capabilities and abilities before you accept it. Once you find the right job, you’ll need to win over the company that’s going to be paying you. To do this, you’ll have to meet their specific requirement as well as provide them with assurances that you’re the perfect fit. A lot of developers will refer to a personal portfolio of websites designed, or graphics created. This is a sure-fire way to let the client know you’re serious about contract employment.
Tip 3. Make Sure They Can Pay You:
It might sound funny, but there are plenty of contracts out there, but not all of the clients are willing to pay, or are able to pay. Small businesses are the backbone of society, and in a poor economy, no one is safe. Make sure the company you contract for is able to pay you upon completion. Always ask for a deposit. Depending on your personal reputation, ask for an amount that will work for you. Typically, designers charge a 50% deposit for a website after giving an initial estimate. You are the best person to give this estimate because only you will know how long it will take to develop for your client.
Tip 4. Don’t Sell Yourself Short:
Selling yourself short can be devastating to your career. Undercutting another developer is also a poor way to build your portfolio. When you give your rate, the client may see this as your skill level if other developers they are interviewing or in negotiations with give a higher rate. Lower rates will drive up competition and ultimately bring down the cost of contracts in the market. If you sell yourself short, you sell everyone short.
Tip 5. Referrals:
Ask for referrals. In all my years contracting, referrals have made my business succeed beyond anything I could have ever imagined! Developing good relationships with your clients and your clients’ friends will benefit in the long run. This will complete the cycle of finding and developing contract web jobs. Remember, it never hurts to ask-especially if it’ll help make you more money.
Learning how to find contracts and maintain clients is vital to a career in freelancing on the internet. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be when meeting new clients and writing proposals! Good luck!
By: Eddie Phanichkul
About the Author:
Eddie Phanichkul is a writer from southern California. He writes on relationships and technology, as well as reviews film and literature. Visit Taking Stuff Apart, http://www.takingstuffapart.com to read more!
Six Great Tips for Job Screening Interviews
The job screening interview may be conducted in person or by telephone. It is almost always a behavioral interview (questions about your past often predict your future action) conducted by just one person. It is very common for recruiters to screen candidates by phone as it is the quickest way to ascertain a candidate’s skill set, qualifications and match to the job opportunity. Likewise, employers receiving numerous applications also find the telephone to be the best method for screening candidates for the first round.
Tip #1: Treat all interviews formally.
It might seem a bit more informal, but do not be lulled into that feeling because every interview is formal, important and critical to your success in moving onto the next interview level. At every step along the way you are being highly scrutinized. Employers are looking for elements in your resume and from your answers that confirms you might be a match for their position, but they are also interested in screening out those that simply do not match up. The sooner they can assemble a solid candidate pool of three to five top notch candidates to invite in for face-to-face interviews, the better.
Tip # 2: Always be prepared.
So whether or not you are being screened in person or by telephone, you need to be prepared no matter what for the screening interview as this is only the first in what may be several steps and interviews you will have to go through. However, assume that when you are actively job seeking and have distributed your resume, that a prospective employer is going to call you. Your phone is going to ring and you will be facing the initial screening interview. Are you prepared? Probably not. That is because the interviewer is prepared to begin asking you questions about your background, experience and achievements. You, on the other hand, usually have no idea who is calling you, and thus, may not be prepared at that moment, or even be in the situation, to carry on an interview.
Tip #3: Don’t answer your phone.
What can you do? Simple, let the caller go into your voicemail and leave you a call back message and phone number. We all live in a world of voicemail and leaving one message is usually not a problem, as long as the person returns the call in a timely manner. By letting the call go into voicemail you have some time to prepare. That way you can take a moment to compose yourself and be better prepared to call back at a time more suitable to you so you can give the best interview possible.
When you list your phone number on your resume, you can be absolutely certain an employer will use that to make an initial contact. Now you know an employer is going to call you; you must anticipate this and be prepared. Thus, it is imperative that the message on your phone is professional, warm and courteous. It should not be cute, humorous, folksy or anything else but above board and professional. This is another “first impression” and you do not want to drop the ball here.
When your phone rings and you do not recognize the caller, it is safer to let the call go to voicemail so you can return it at the right time than it is to be caught off guard and give a poorly prepared interview. You could knock yourself out of contention right at the outset, so why take such a risk?
Tip #4: Call back at your choosing.
When is the right time to call the interviewer back? As soon as you are relaxed and in a comfortable setting where you will not have annoying background noise, disturbances, interruptions, or anything that implies you are not in a professional setting and mode. You should call back as soon as possible; within minutes is best because the interviewer is eager to talk with you, already has you and your resume on their mind, is somewhat familiar with you and does not want to have to keep chasing you down.
Tip #5: Control the environment.
If you are driving and on your cell phone, pull over and get off a loud, busy street. If you are at home, go into a quiet room where no one can disturb you. Likewise, if you are at your office, close the door, use a private conference room, or go outside with your cell phone and find a suitable location (not near a door where people are going past you with greetings or might be tempted to stop and talk). Have your resume and any other important materials neatly organized and at your fingertips so you can refer to them at a moment’s notice. After all, the interviewer has them and is reading from the materials you supplied to them.
Tip #6: Get prepared for your next interview.
Assuming you have passed the initial screening interview, most likely by telephone, now what? Usually the next step is to invite you in for a more in-depth second screening interview – referred to as the qualification interview. The screening interview was to determine if you match up with the job description, possess the required job skills and requirements, and have most of the qualifications. The qualification interview will determine your strength and position within the candidate pool.
By: Craig Travis
About the Author:
Tip #1: Treat all interviews formally.
It might seem a bit more informal, but do not be lulled into that feeling because every interview is formal, important and critical to your success in moving onto the next interview level. At every step along the way you are being highly scrutinized. Employers are looking for elements in your resume and from your answers that confirms you might be a match for their position, but they are also interested in screening out those that simply do not match up. The sooner they can assemble a solid candidate pool of three to five top notch candidates to invite in for face-to-face interviews, the better.
Tip # 2: Always be prepared.
So whether or not you are being screened in person or by telephone, you need to be prepared no matter what for the screening interview as this is only the first in what may be several steps and interviews you will have to go through. However, assume that when you are actively job seeking and have distributed your resume, that a prospective employer is going to call you. Your phone is going to ring and you will be facing the initial screening interview. Are you prepared? Probably not. That is because the interviewer is prepared to begin asking you questions about your background, experience and achievements. You, on the other hand, usually have no idea who is calling you, and thus, may not be prepared at that moment, or even be in the situation, to carry on an interview.
Tip #3: Don’t answer your phone.
What can you do? Simple, let the caller go into your voicemail and leave you a call back message and phone number. We all live in a world of voicemail and leaving one message is usually not a problem, as long as the person returns the call in a timely manner. By letting the call go into voicemail you have some time to prepare. That way you can take a moment to compose yourself and be better prepared to call back at a time more suitable to you so you can give the best interview possible.
When you list your phone number on your resume, you can be absolutely certain an employer will use that to make an initial contact. Now you know an employer is going to call you; you must anticipate this and be prepared. Thus, it is imperative that the message on your phone is professional, warm and courteous. It should not be cute, humorous, folksy or anything else but above board and professional. This is another “first impression” and you do not want to drop the ball here.
When your phone rings and you do not recognize the caller, it is safer to let the call go to voicemail so you can return it at the right time than it is to be caught off guard and give a poorly prepared interview. You could knock yourself out of contention right at the outset, so why take such a risk?
Tip #4: Call back at your choosing.
When is the right time to call the interviewer back? As soon as you are relaxed and in a comfortable setting where you will not have annoying background noise, disturbances, interruptions, or anything that implies you are not in a professional setting and mode. You should call back as soon as possible; within minutes is best because the interviewer is eager to talk with you, already has you and your resume on their mind, is somewhat familiar with you and does not want to have to keep chasing you down.
Tip #5: Control the environment.
If you are driving and on your cell phone, pull over and get off a loud, busy street. If you are at home, go into a quiet room where no one can disturb you. Likewise, if you are at your office, close the door, use a private conference room, or go outside with your cell phone and find a suitable location (not near a door where people are going past you with greetings or might be tempted to stop and talk). Have your resume and any other important materials neatly organized and at your fingertips so you can refer to them at a moment’s notice. After all, the interviewer has them and is reading from the materials you supplied to them.
Tip #6: Get prepared for your next interview.
Assuming you have passed the initial screening interview, most likely by telephone, now what? Usually the next step is to invite you in for a more in-depth second screening interview – referred to as the qualification interview. The screening interview was to determine if you match up with the job description, possess the required job skills and requirements, and have most of the qualifications. The qualification interview will determine your strength and position within the candidate pool.
By: Craig Travis
About the Author:
For over 25 years Craig Travis has successfully been marketing people with his keen insight and is aptly noted for his highly effective and commanding communication style that’s as bold as it is innovative. He has redefined the way candidates are marketed and his creative approach has helped his clients capture the finest jobs in their fields.
Today, he’s the foremost writer producing exceptionally powerful resumes and persuasive cover letters for Sequence, a premier executive search and staffing firm for the construction, engineering, environmental and light industrial industries. Sequence is dedicated to supporting the core industries responsible for building and maintaining the nation’s infrastructure, natural resources and environment by recruiting and marketing personnel to work for the finest organizations throughout the United States. For more information: www.sequencestaffing.com.
5 Baby Boomer Retirement Tips
Whether retirement is right around the corner, or several years down the road, it’s never too early, or too late, to start planning for your future. Some people feel intimidated by matters of finance, while others simply don’t feel comfortable with their knowledge regarding retirement planning. Make it a priority to learn as much as you can about your finances by reviewing the following essential 5 top baby boomers retirement tips.
It’s no secret that retirement can be expensive, especially with the rising costs of just about everything, which is why most experts recommend planning on needing anywhere from 70 to 90% of your current earnings after you retire to maintain the standard of living you’re accustomed to.
Here are the 5 top baby boomers retirement tips for those who are serious about planning for their future:
Start With a Definitive Plan
Start by noting your current standard of living and then examine whether or not you’re willing to make sacrifices, or if you plan to live just as you always have. Most people expect to enjoy the same lifestyle along with travel or vacation plans after retiring, but really have no true idea of how much money they’re going to need to actually do so.
A retirement calculator is useful for figuring out exactly what you will need each month to meet your goals. Either online or through your own calculations, use your current age, the age you plan on retiring, your current savings, and how much you need to live comfortably per year after retiring to get the final amount.
For solutions to your specific circumstances, seek out the advice of a professional, such as a financial advisor, your bank or union, as well as your employer’s human resources department. Ultimately, trust your own instincts and educate yourself before making any decisions.
Review Your Social Security Benefits
On average, the Social Security Administration (SSA) pays roughly 40% of one’s pre-retirement earnings after retiring. Earnings statements are usually mailed three to four months before your birthday that outline what you have paid in taxes, along with a summary of your estimated benefits depending on the age you retire. If you haven’t yet received any statements, contact the SSA to request one by visiting their web site at www.ssa.gov.
Learn About Your Employee Benefits
Any employee who is covered under their employer’s retirement plan is entitled to a clear explanation of their benefits and receive what is known as a summary plan description. Also remember to inquire about your spouse’s retirement benefits through their employer, or open a spousal IRA (Individual Retirement Account) for those who do not work outside of the home.
Contribute to a 401k
One of the most often overlooked of the 5 top baby boomers retirement tips are investing in a 401k, which is a tax-sheltered savings plan that your employer also contributes to. It is estimated that an entire quarter of all people who were offered the chance to participate in a 401k plan chose not to. If your employer doesn’t currently have any type of retirement plan in place, suggest that it start one as soon as possible.
Follow Through
Although a growing nest egg may be tempting during those times when you might need a little extra cash, it’s imperative to stick to your plan to avoid any withdrawal penalties, as well as falling short of your ultimate goal when you do retire.
By simply following these 5 top baby boomers retirement tips, it really is possible to retire the way you envisioned and truly enjoy your future without worrying about finances.
By: Dan Skriver
About the Author:
It’s no secret that retirement can be expensive, especially with the rising costs of just about everything, which is why most experts recommend planning on needing anywhere from 70 to 90% of your current earnings after you retire to maintain the standard of living you’re accustomed to.
Here are the 5 top baby boomers retirement tips for those who are serious about planning for their future:
Start With a Definitive Plan
Start by noting your current standard of living and then examine whether or not you’re willing to make sacrifices, or if you plan to live just as you always have. Most people expect to enjoy the same lifestyle along with travel or vacation plans after retiring, but really have no true idea of how much money they’re going to need to actually do so.
A retirement calculator is useful for figuring out exactly what you will need each month to meet your goals. Either online or through your own calculations, use your current age, the age you plan on retiring, your current savings, and how much you need to live comfortably per year after retiring to get the final amount.
For solutions to your specific circumstances, seek out the advice of a professional, such as a financial advisor, your bank or union, as well as your employer’s human resources department. Ultimately, trust your own instincts and educate yourself before making any decisions.
Review Your Social Security Benefits
On average, the Social Security Administration (SSA) pays roughly 40% of one’s pre-retirement earnings after retiring. Earnings statements are usually mailed three to four months before your birthday that outline what you have paid in taxes, along with a summary of your estimated benefits depending on the age you retire. If you haven’t yet received any statements, contact the SSA to request one by visiting their web site at www.ssa.gov.
Learn About Your Employee Benefits
Any employee who is covered under their employer’s retirement plan is entitled to a clear explanation of their benefits and receive what is known as a summary plan description. Also remember to inquire about your spouse’s retirement benefits through their employer, or open a spousal IRA (Individual Retirement Account) for those who do not work outside of the home.
Contribute to a 401k
One of the most often overlooked of the 5 top baby boomers retirement tips are investing in a 401k, which is a tax-sheltered savings plan that your employer also contributes to. It is estimated that an entire quarter of all people who were offered the chance to participate in a 401k plan chose not to. If your employer doesn’t currently have any type of retirement plan in place, suggest that it start one as soon as possible.
Follow Through
Although a growing nest egg may be tempting during those times when you might need a little extra cash, it’s imperative to stick to your plan to avoid any withdrawal penalties, as well as falling short of your ultimate goal when you do retire.
By simply following these 5 top baby boomers retirement tips, it really is possible to retire the way you envisioned and truly enjoy your future without worrying about finances.
By: Dan Skriver
About the Author:
To learn more about the Baby Boomers retirement and the challenges they face, please click “baby boomer retirement”. Dan Skriver is a writer and editor for Hello Boomers Magazine, covering all subjects related to the Baby Boomers retirement.
Cruise Jobs – Five Tips for Getting Hired
How will I find my dream job on a cruise ship? Who will hire me? What do I need to know? Where will I get tips for getting hired? You will find the answers to these and other questions about working on a cruise ship if you read the following excerpts from Mary Fallon Miller’s book ‘How to Get a Job with a Cruise Line’. You’ll get to know how much they will pay you, what you’ll be doing and how long you will be doing it.
Imagine what it takes to operate a floating resort – a virtual city. That is what a cruise ship is. It employs experienced workers in over three hundred kinds of jobs to run this kind an enterprise. Here are some good tips for getting hired! Those people that are seasoned in the entertainment industry will be considered first – and then if you are proficient in such occupations as hospitality, tourism, restaurants and bars, teaching, childcare, sales, customer relations, gaming, marketing, fitness, health and beauty, medicine and healthcare, administration, banking, accounting and financial management, your skills will also be in demand.
Cruise lines hire dependable, competent people with outgoing, positive attitudes, students, career-changers, retirees – “people” people, who enjoy working with others. Your number one priority as a cruise line employee is to provide a safe, fun and memorable vacation experience.
To get hired on a cruise ship you need to: Know the players – Royal Caribbean International, Princess and Carnival are known as the ‘Big Three’, with the largest fleets in the industry. These employers should be at the top of your list. Choose jobs that interest you – Practice public speaking whenever possible, study a foreign language or get your CPR or Lifesaving Certification. Sell yourself – Apply early and often – but don’t pester the Personnel Office by phone. Send follow up letters and resume updates. Great tips for getting hired!
The cruise industry hires year-round and seasonally. Most employees work for a period of six to nine months with one to two months off. Many departments add staff for holiday cruises, and peak sailings through winter and spring. Doctors and nurses can find year round employment or assignments as brief as two to three months. Peak hiring times for youth counselors? Holidays and summer – perfect for students or teachers who love to travel. List your specific dates of availability (e.g. from May 15 to Sept. 1) so the Personnel Office knows how to schedule you.
The pay compares to good jobs ashore – plus you save a lot of money because most expenses are left behind. On board ship your room and meals are included. No more rent, grocery, electric, or gas bills! You can bank your salary and tips, or blow it all in ports of call. Sample current pay ranges: Casino Manager: $2,000-3,000 per month (revenue sharing.) Gift Shop Retail Sales: $1,000-1,500 per month (commission included.) Hairstylist / Beautician: $1,000-1,300 per month (tips included.) Shore Excursion Manager: $1,800 – $3,000 per month, plus commission.
If you really are interested in learning how to get a cruise ship job, you’ll need to know what you want to work at, find out who’s hiring, determine how to get hired, establish whether it is year-round or seasonal employment you’ll be involved with and how much they will pay you. Make a plan and stick to it!
Keith J. Valentine began his career at 16 in the Royal Air Force and has worked in the materials management and information technology industries for years. Now 52, he writes online articles about his experiences in the work force. For more on careers, tips and a free e-zine, please visit 101 Easy Articles at http://www.EasyArticles4u.com
By: Keith J. Valentine
About the Author:
Imagine what it takes to operate a floating resort – a virtual city. That is what a cruise ship is. It employs experienced workers in over three hundred kinds of jobs to run this kind an enterprise. Here are some good tips for getting hired! Those people that are seasoned in the entertainment industry will be considered first – and then if you are proficient in such occupations as hospitality, tourism, restaurants and bars, teaching, childcare, sales, customer relations, gaming, marketing, fitness, health and beauty, medicine and healthcare, administration, banking, accounting and financial management, your skills will also be in demand.
Cruise lines hire dependable, competent people with outgoing, positive attitudes, students, career-changers, retirees – “people” people, who enjoy working with others. Your number one priority as a cruise line employee is to provide a safe, fun and memorable vacation experience.
To get hired on a cruise ship you need to: Know the players – Royal Caribbean International, Princess and Carnival are known as the ‘Big Three’, with the largest fleets in the industry. These employers should be at the top of your list. Choose jobs that interest you – Practice public speaking whenever possible, study a foreign language or get your CPR or Lifesaving Certification. Sell yourself – Apply early and often – but don’t pester the Personnel Office by phone. Send follow up letters and resume updates. Great tips for getting hired!
The cruise industry hires year-round and seasonally. Most employees work for a period of six to nine months with one to two months off. Many departments add staff for holiday cruises, and peak sailings through winter and spring. Doctors and nurses can find year round employment or assignments as brief as two to three months. Peak hiring times for youth counselors? Holidays and summer – perfect for students or teachers who love to travel. List your specific dates of availability (e.g. from May 15 to Sept. 1) so the Personnel Office knows how to schedule you.
The pay compares to good jobs ashore – plus you save a lot of money because most expenses are left behind. On board ship your room and meals are included. No more rent, grocery, electric, or gas bills! You can bank your salary and tips, or blow it all in ports of call. Sample current pay ranges: Casino Manager: $2,000-3,000 per month (revenue sharing.) Gift Shop Retail Sales: $1,000-1,500 per month (commission included.) Hairstylist / Beautician: $1,000-1,300 per month (tips included.) Shore Excursion Manager: $1,800 – $3,000 per month, plus commission.
If you really are interested in learning how to get a cruise ship job, you’ll need to know what you want to work at, find out who’s hiring, determine how to get hired, establish whether it is year-round or seasonal employment you’ll be involved with and how much they will pay you. Make a plan and stick to it!
Keith J. Valentine began his career at 16 in the Royal Air Force and has worked in the materials management and information technology industries for years. Now 52, he writes online articles about his experiences in the work force. For more on careers, tips and a free e-zine, please visit 101 Easy Articles at http://www.EasyArticles4u.com
By: Keith J. Valentine
About the Author:
Keith J. Valentine began his career at 16 in the Royal Air Force and has worked in the materials management and information technology industries for years. Now 52, he writes online articles about his experiences in the work force. For more on careers, tips and a free e-zine, please visit 101 Easy Articles at http://www.EasyArticles4u.com
