Oh my. Does this mean that the next time our resumes are reviewed, does this mean someone will try to put us into one of the above categories? Well, if the person reading the resume has read the study, the answer could be yes.

Swell. That means we've got the choice of being catetgorized as psychologically inept, a master of making poor choices, or merely too idealistic to have a clue.

Guess what?

There are other reason that people choose to change employment. Transitioning is not bad. But the moral of the story is, be sure you have a good answer to the question: "So JoBeth (or Jim-Bob), tell me. Why did you leave X company (and Y company and Z company)?"

Repeat After Me

February 04, 1998 There are plenty of jobs. All I have to do is choose one.

Last June, Newsweek reported that there were "121.8 million jobs in America--more than ever before." This is good news. You are wanted. Even better, you are desperately wanted which makes the employment market a job hunter's paradise.

This is true for just about everyone. Techies, skilled trade workers, business folks, even hamburg flipping gurus. So, take advantage.

If you're already employed and are happy where you are, by all means stay. If you're in a valuable position, and honestly believe you're worth more than you're getting, ask. Some businesses are in the unenviable position of needing to accommodate some of their employees who request raises or perks, just to keep them on.

If you're hunting, remember that you're wanted. If not at this particular job, then certainly at another. When the offer(s) come, consider negotiating your compensation package. The company offers you the job for a reason--they want what you can do. If you further highlight this reason, and can specifically indicate how your unique skills are a splendid match to the job you're being offered, you may remind the employer that you're worth perhaps more than they originally thought.

Hold your own. Salary negotiations are rather tough and make many of us feel a bit egotistical or awkward. But try not to succumb to being the first to name a salary figure. One of our very favorite negotiating lines comes from Noel Smith-Wenkle, who suggests you say:

"I am much more interested in doing (type of work) here at (name of company) than I am in the size of the initial offer."

Sure, if you're interested in the position, let the employer know. Everyone wants someone who's enthusiastic. At the same time, leave room to negotiate, to find out more about them and what you're worth.

Don't Screen Yourself Out

February 03, 1998

You've started the hunt. What happens next?

The Minnesota Department of Economic Security has a terrific explanation of the hiring process that carries you through the recruitment, screening, and selection processes.

Yes, your resume will be screened. Some great insight into what makes a resume work is available (free until 9/11) at Northern Light.

Jeffrey Hornsby and Brien Smith published an article in SAM Advanced Management Journal. They provide timely advice to job hunters. But, their advice has basis in more than theory. They have looked at empirical surveys of Human Resource professionals.

The authors suggest that there are:
"eight general categories: preparation, identification, professional objective, educational qualifications, work experience, achievements, personal information, and references. Data gathered from a variety of sources suggest that the type and amount of information presented in these areas are important to human resource professionals."

Learning more about each of the categories is a simple task. Reading the article will help. So too will a few searches using the categories as keywords.

Your resume is the beginning of the selection process. Don't write it to announce that you should not be selected.

But, the selection process is more than just your resume. As Hornsby and Smith caution:
"The resume does not exist in a vacuum: it is a supporting tool in a more comprehensive job search strategy which should include skills retraining, networking, positive oral and written presentations, interview strategies, and negotiation skills. Applicants cannot learn to write effective resumes without also understanding the overall selection process, why cover letters are important, or how the employer will use the resume to generate questions during the employment interview."

The Circus Is Coming to Town

February 02, 1998

Well, maybe it's not really a circus. Job fairs and career expos do serve a purpose. You get to meet recruiters, learn who's hiring, and see who else is looking around.

Most companies that participate in job fairs share important information about how to get a job with them -- and what job openings they actually have.

If you do attend a job fair, there's two things to keep in mind: know what to bring and go with specific objectives in mind

To bring:
• many copies of your resume
• work samples, if appropriate
• business cards
• notepad and pen to take notes
• a briefcase to carry it all in

To do:
• research the companies that will be there
• walk around once without stopping to see what's available
• visit all the booths you can
• collect business cards
• ask questions about companies
• pick up brochures and what-all from those companies that interest you
• arrange follow up meetings with those you are interested in