Dramatically Increase Your Demand in the Workforce: Learn A Language!
Did you know, learning a language can be the single most important skill you can add to increase your career marketability-no matter the field? Today’s job marketplace is quickly evolving as a global marketplace. This is evident in the success of world-wide behemoths like Amazon.com, ebay, Google, Yahoo! and other “newbie” global startups. Because of the expanded world-wide marketplace many companies have a critical unfulfilled need for workers who are bilingual, trilingual and multilingual. If you are unemployed, this is an opportunity to get back into the workforce and actually INCREASE your job options and SALARY. But beware! Don’t fall into the doldrums of feeling hopeless having lost your job. Instead, face your loss as the great opportunity it is. When you learn a language, you prepare to re-enter the job market stronger than when you left. Use some of the time you are not working to learn a language, the pay off will be worth it. Remember, your future career tomorrow depends on your job skills preparation today.
Perhaps you are like the average American and think learning a new language will be too hard? Well, I have good news for you. The language most in demand in the United States today is the easiest language to learn for English speakers-it is Spanish. Spanish is so easy the translated equivalent for some words are identical to, or are so closely related in structure and meaning to English, it takes little effort to learn. Spanish emanates from Latin just like English. Thus many of the words in both languages are so very close in spelling, meaning and pronunciation that it is no wonder Spanish is the #1 second language for English speakers.
For those who studied Spanish in elementary school, junior high and senior high school this is the time to brush up and add to your Spanish skills so you learn to speak fluently. The Internet makes learning your new language easy. There are online sites that teach you the basics in your chosen language for free. The catch? This is their incentive to get you to sign for their advanced course. The cost of the advanced courses are reasonably priced, starting from $10 dollars per session.
Should you want to select another language, in ease of learning, the following languages are best when English is your native tongue; French, Italian, Dutch, Afrikaans, German, Portuguese, Romanian, Norwegian, Swedish and Danish. Consider too, the languages in highest demand in the United States across all occupations are: [Spanish], Chinese (Mandarin then Cantonese), Korean and Russian.* Adding a second language to your repertoire of skills will greatly expand the industries, employers, job types and geographical career options open to you. That is not bad when considering the floundering job market today.
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- Choosing an Online Language Class: Seven Things to Look For (distance-education.org)
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In the news it’s been reported we’re in a down economy:that employment prospects for job seekers are few. These statements may be true more or less, depending on your perspective. For some, being jobless is an all-encompassing, life changing crisis. For others, it’s just a matter of accessing a wealth of untapped resources. Those who bounce right back use tactics to include constructing a job search from a new angle, targeting untapped skills, networking-utilizing past job resources or turning a hobby into an income-producing ad hoc job. No matter which route taken the result should be the same-you gain income to replace income lost or, to supplement income you already have. So how to proceed from where you are now to where you want to go? This article gives the first alternative in a series on how to increase your income. Each article will focus on an option that is a proven method to obtaining more money. Use this help to bridge the gap when you need to find work until your showboat comes in. Notwithstanding, you may discover that, in and of itself, some of the future tips could prove to be quite lucrative; supplanting the original reason you sought help in the first place. Read on…
Temporary Employment Agencies Register at temporary employment agencies. Many job seekers working at the same company or two all their adult lives, often overlook this option. Temporary employment agencies carry a stigma as a last resort measure. Know that there are two types of temporary employment agencies: day work agencies (that are frequented by the hardcore unemployed and transients) and temporary employment (assignment) agencies. The public often confuse the two. It is the latter of the two which is addressed in this article specifically, temporary employment (assignment) agencies.
The Pros of Getting Work Through A Temporary Employment Agency Thus far you have shunned
temporary employment agencies fearing it would put the stamp of “reject” on you. Rather, if you are not moving right into a new job or are on sabbatical, temporary employment agencies should be the first place you should look! One reason being is temporary employment agencies regularly send workers on assignments the same day they register or the next. That means replacing lost income without missing a beat. A second reason is temporary employment agencies often have work assignments for top-notch companies to include Fortune 500 businesses. That means easier access to companies that may be hard to break into normally. For those who do not know any hiring managers in their industry or have few or no business connections, temporary employment agencies may be an excellent option. A third reason is temporary employment agencies have a quick turnaround in pay. They almost exclusively pay workers weekly. A first paycheck can normally be received within a week after starting work or sometimes within only a few days. A fourth reason is temporary employment agencies offer an option to pay your salary directly through your bank account. This makes payday not only quick but hassle-free. A final reason is although you may be sent on an assignment initially as a temporary worker, if the employer likes your work ethic (punctuality, attendance, work product, work spirit etc.) you may be hired on as a full-time, permanent worker.
The Ace in the Hole The true role that temporary employment agencies’ play in the hiring scenario is an industry secret. It is the means by which some of the biggest companies “screen” their new hires without a long term commitment. It allows the employer to “hire” only the best workers, without hassle. It services roles that are subversively opposite. Nevertheless the dichotomy, the role of the temporary employment agency as intermediary works well for both the temporary worker and the employer. The temporary worker is given the chance to prove himself or herself in a job he or she might generally be excluded from, and the employer maximizes his access to groomed job recruits while managing his hiring and training resources efficiently.
Register Getting on the list of registrants at a temporary employment agency is relatively easy-because their job, is “jobs.” They often have work to fill by the ton. This does not mean throw protocol to the wind. Go to your interview dressed business casual or business professional depending on the agency and the type of job you are seeking. Brush up on your job search skills and be prepared as normal for any job interview. Here is additional help. View some of the (67) 1:00 minute videos at Job Search Minute hosted by YouTube. These videos are conducted by Brian Krueger and cover everything from your resume, to questions you may be asked and how to prepare for them, to what to do after the interview.
Watch These Extremely, Helpful 1:00 Minute Videos, plus more…
1] The Fatal Interview Sin
2] What You Need To Do Before The Interview
3] The First Interviewing Clue I Look for as an Employer
4] Preparing For The Toughest Interview Questions
5] Mastering Your Telephone Interview
6] Tell Me About Yourself
7] The Most Important Aspect of Successful Interviewing
8] How to Differentiate Yourself From Your Competition
9] How to Dress So The Focus Is On You
Job Search Minute is an excellent, excellent resource. The videos are brief, professional, and get right to the heart of what you really need to know. Every video is packed with valuable questions and information you always wanted to know but no other interviewer would answer. The videos can be your secret weapon in distinguishing yourself from your competition because they address questions answered from an interviewer’s perspective. The videos give you the necessary insight to what the interviewer is looking for. They instruct you on how to prepare for the interview, how to answer questions properly so you ace the interview and the decorum you must use after the interview is over. Job Search Minute is a premium resource used by ‘The Careerist’ to help job seekers land the job of their dreams. Pick the topic you want, and watch. Every video is only 1:06 minute or less! 
What To Bring To Your Interview
When you go for your temporary employment agency interview be sure to bring two copies of your professional resume with cover letter. Also bring three references under separate cover; each being on an individual sheet of 8 1/2″ x 11″ paper. Your references should address three questions:
a] How your reference knows you? b] Why you are the best person for the job? c] What your reference thinks about you professionally and/or personally? Also, don’t forget to take 2 pieces of identification. One should be a government issued, photo identification (drivers license, passport or immigration card). The other can be government issued, non-photo identification (social security card, ITIN card, or birth certificate).
Commentary Don’t let the stigma of temporary employment agencies keep you from accessing a resource that may prove valuable to you. Once you have lost your job it is easy to despair. Staying in the game is an important element to avoid the stress and negative consequences of being unemployed. There is no shame in honest work. Bills need to be paid and you need to keep your head above water. Balance your time working through a temporary employment agency while continuing your job search for your ideal career position. It is the case however, for blue collar workers through first level management workers, temporary employment agencies can actually provide a step up in pay and job status. As stated before, coveted positions within high profile companies are reserved for temporary employment agencies as the proving ground for new hires. It is the “in” for the disadvantaged applicant. Rather than turn overlook this opportunity, why not take a closer look? Temporary employment agencies may just be the remedy you need to get you back on solid ground. Here’s To Your Success!
Site Sources:
YouTube.com
Brian Krueger of College Grad.com for Job Search Minute
Wheaton College Massachusetts for I-9 Acceptable Identification
7 Sure Fire Ways To Re-Group After (or Before) Job Loss!
It happens to the best of us. For one reason or another you find yourself unemployed. The challenge now is to stay in the game. “You’ve got to be in it, to win it”, as the saying goes. So, what’s your next move? For one, don’t let yourself get the doldrums. Set a plan of action immediately. Make your game plan a priority. Then do it! Here for you in this article are the keys to mapping out your strategy. This is the antidote for joblessness. Beware! Don’t let you’re job loss get you down. Rather, come back stronger than when you left the workforce. Here are the keys to your plan of action: 1] Learn a language 2] Take a college course or certificate program 3] Hire a career coach 4] Revamp your résumé 5] Refresh your interview and job search skills 6] Volunteer 7] Invest in yourself.
Learn A Language: Learning a language is the fastest and single most important way for you to skyrocket your demand in today’s workforce. The reason being, there is greater demand now, more than ever before in history for bilingual, trilingual and multilingual speakers. This is primarily attributed to the Internet. The Internet has brought a unified strata to the whole world. The Internet phenomena can be witnessed in “newbie” behemoths like Amazon.com, Google, ebay, Yahoo! and other “startup” global companies. We’re now in a global economy. There is immense pressure for companies to gain market share before their competitors. In order to compete in a global marketplace the language barrier must be bridged. Not only must this be accomplished at top-level executive positions but straight down through blue collar support level positions.
Every business that wants longevity has to gain, establish and hold it’s market share in the new global marketplace. That is what is occurring right this very minute! This is where the glut for multilingual speakers has found a home. And this is where opportunity knocks for you. Learning a foreign language will open the doors wide for you even in this down economy. The good news is, the language most in demand in the workforce-Spanish-is the easiest to learn by English speakers. With regular practice conversational fluency can be obtained in 6 months or less. Decide today what language you want to learn. It will be one of the most important steps you can take to cement your place in the world economy.
Take A College Course or Certificate Program: Continue your education. Take a college course or certificate program in your field. This will not only keep you fresh but will add tangible credibility to your work skills. There are certification programs in many fields some of which courses’ can be taken online. Certificate programs can vary in length from 2 day programs to 1 to 2 week programs, to 3 to 4 month programs to per semester and one year college centered programs. The future of the “careerist” of tomorrow, is continuing education today. Adding to your job skills through academic accomplishments is one of the most prolific ways to excel in your field. It’s how to get on top. It’s how to stay on top.
Hire A Career Coach: Locate a career coach either online or local to you to re-prioritize and add focus to your job search. The best career coaches can guide you in the most effective means possible, so your every effort really counts in your job search. Start with this great online resource for “Guidelines on Choosing A Career Coach researched by About.com. At this resource you can also find a career counselor by state, name or use the option to browse all counselors. You can also ask for referrals from family and friends.
Revamp Your Résumé: Today’s resumes are more advanced than the resumes of old. Now resumes are business, professional stylized with HTML. The addition of a professional, full face photo is also now acceptable. Upgrade your résumé with a professional résumé firm (updating accomplishments from your current position as well) to stand out from your competition. A fresh resume always adds a clean, new perspective to your job search.
Refresh Your Interview and Job Search Skills: Be sure your etiquette and preparation in your job search is on point. To give you a head’s up, today employers expect you to thoroughly research their company even BEFORE the initial interview. Some employers even ask questions assuming not only that you have researched the company, but know as well, what is going on in the industry. Do your research on companies you will interview with. Additionally, brief yourself on what is expected from you from the employers you interview with. And overall get a feel for what is happening in the job search field now.
Volunteer: Volunteer through Senior Corps of Retired Executives, at national charities such as the Red Cross, locally at your church or at organizations that service the indigent. You will not only lend a hand up to others, but will add to your sense of self-satisfaction and increase your sense of purpose.
Invest In Yourself: Do what is necessary to revitalize yourself. Continue to make special time to enjoy yourself. Treat yourself to a movie, dinner date or night out. Don’t just cut off all recreational activities. If funds are very tight look for free activities such as city sponsored concerts, church functions and no cost admission days at your favorite social spot. If you have an exercise program, stay with it. If you don’t, begin one. Check out your local YMCA or YWCA for free programs that are run through their organizations nationwide and worldwide. Y’s can be found in over 125 countries around the world. People who exercise have more energy, confidence and a clearer focus for tasks at hand. This translates into the self-assurance that you’ll need to get you through this rough time in your career.
A Final Word…It’s a fact the business world is always evolving. Most mid to large size U.S. companies have dedicated R&D (research and development) departments. Billions and billions of dollars are spent each year by these companies inventing, improving and working on current, and new products. As a paralegal student with an interest in business, I try to keep abreast of what is happening in the business world. Currently, the focus has been on innovation. The mantra is “Innovation Drives the Economy.” I agree. I never fail to marvel at all the many amazing products, innovations and inventions that flood the consumer market. It is certainly these products and the resulting dynamics on our consumer oriented society that, I feel, really does fuel the economy. You’ll witness innovation and change in centuries old companies like General Electric, Sears and Johnson & Johnson. These companies have evolved over the ages, changing with the times. It’s a fact, times must and do change. Likewise so must we as we pursue the mind-boggling opportunities afforded in the newly emerging global economy.
Borrowing Money Made Easy
I learned this lesson from my uncle. He said, “Only borrow money to make money”. Okay you’ve decided you need to borrow money and it is to make money, but you have limited resources from which to draw. You’re in business for yourself and you need to push your business to the next level. For any number of reasons you don’t want to borrow from your home bank now. You refuse to do the unthinkable and tap your IRA or 401K. Too, asking friends and associates is out of the question. Many of us have come to this financial juncture before. No matter your situation there is a viable solution for you. Fortunately, there’s a new kid in the lending market that is very unique. It is called peer-to-peer lending. Peer-to-peer lending is not simply a new concept in borrowing money: it trounces the old traditional ways of obtaining loans. Peer-to-peer lending has many advantages for both borrower and lender. Its principle being founded upon the community sharing concept.
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What is Peer-to-Peer Lending? Peer-to-peer lending is a community of investors and lenders as an aggregate entity. The community serves two main purposes, to make money for investors and to lend money to borrowers. You can enter the community as a lender or a borrower. It is your choice. Some of the advantages of peer-to-peer lending for the borrower compared to conventional bank loan are 1) the borrowing requirements are less stringent 2) interest rates are much lower 3) normally the type of loan determines the interest rate; personal loans being the highest 3a) with peer-to-peer lending personal loan rates are as low as 7.5% instead of the industry minimum of 16%! 4) risk is spread over a very large community of investors consisting of hundreds of thousands of members, which greatly increases your chances of getting approved 5) you’re not just a number; you get to add a personal element to your cause through your story-every investor wants to understand the applicant and why the loan is needed 6) your loan can be in your bank account quickly, within a matter of days.
To apply for a loan you post your request to the community stating why you need the loan and how you intend to repay it. Here’s the important part: be honest, clear and concise in stating why you need the loan. Also it is important to add the human element here. The more transparent you are, the more likely you are to get the loan. The community favors honesty and loan requests that are for a good purpose. Many borrowers post a picture of themselves-often in their home, work or school environment. This helps investors to feel they are part of your quest. Once a young law student posted a tuition loan request and told how he needed the loan to finish his last year in graduate school. He spoke briefly of the trials and tribulations he had faced-how he was at the end of the road-he just needed the final push. His was a heart-rending story. He included a picture of himself in cap and gown walking to receive his baccalaureate diploma. His picture was the stake through the heart. Needless to say he got his loan in less than a day. So be honest. You want the investors to believe in you and your purpose, just as much as you do.
Prepare Before Applying: With peer-to-peer lending the stories are the most interesting part. Many are engaging, and from an investor viewpoint, it is fun looking over the stories and determining which requests to invest in. It is a good idea if you look at other requests to get a feel for what you need to do. As you read the stories you will get an understanding of how investors will view you too! Here are a few more tips on how to get ready.
Pictures: Choose pictures that: 1) are clear with good detail, not blurry 2) connect with your situation 3) that demonstrate your story and show you in the prospective environment, albeit, your home, college, work or business (for example, a home improvement loan: show yourself working in your home, a business loan: show yourself opening or working your store, a home addition loan: show the family!)
Write Your Draft: Draft your statement before applying. You should have on hand any financial documents you may need to refer to such tax documents, your business plan, the actual bill you would like to fund, your credit report and any financial statements
About Your Personal Information: Finally, investors pledge either a portion (as low as $25.00) or even all your loan request. Of course the investors wants to know how you are going to repay the loan. So you have to divulge financial information but sensitive data such as your social security number, home address, place of employment, account numbers, telephone number and such is kept secret from the community and is only known by the on-line banking house.
How Much Can I Borrow? You can request a loan up to $25,000. When you repay, you send in one payment and it is distributed by the on-line banking house to the investors. You are given up to three years for repayment. Some of the resources for peer-to-peer lending are prosper.com, kiva and lendingclub.
A Final Word… It is refreshing to see a new financial vehicle via peer-to-peer lending. Peer-to-peer lending is a God-send for the average Joe. Take for instance, small businesses that need more capital, college students who need educational loans and the general consumer who is in need of a home improvement loan or personal loan, in peer-to-peer lending these applicants have found an unmatched invaluable resource. Because of its inherent nature of a “friend-to-friend” transaction that addresses the very needs of the small man, I envision peer-to-peer lending will grow to cover a major part of the micro loan market in the near future. Only time will tell. In the interim, many applicants who need a deserving break will benefit.
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