Build Your Career Network

The most effective method for finding a new job is through networking. Networking calls on a network of contacts and enlists their help in uncovering job leads.

The problem for many job-seekers is in the execution of networking. Job-seekers wonder, where do all these networking contacts come from — and how can I get people to be part of my network? The key point to remember is that networking is relationship-building. Your network consists of people you’ve met (either in person or online) — and you build your network by going out and meeting more people.

The question then becomes, how do I meet people to add to my network?  See 10 proven techniques for building your career network here.

Resume Action Words

Action Verbs and "power words" can provide your resume power and direction. When employed strategically throughout your resume, action verbs can help you resume stand out from the competition. 

Make sure to backup any assertion or claims you make in your resume with detailed experience that demonstrates your skill and ability. 

See a comprehensive list of action verbs to consider using in your resume and cover letters here.

Skills Job Seekers Need

When it comes to a job seeker’s skills/qualities, employers are looking for team players who can make decisions while solving  problems Employers who interview and hire new college graduates were asked to rank a job candidate’s desired skills and qualities. The highest ranked qualities previously listed are the first of 10 highly rated.

For the compete list see the article here.

Importance of Attending a Job Fair

Job fair events are popular in the eyes of both employers and potential employees. To aid the recruitment, application, and networking process, job fairs and training expos are usually held in significant urban job markets.  Typically they occur one or more a month. This is an ingenious way to meet the needs of both employers and potential employees to the benefit of both..

To find out exactly what a job fair is and how it benefits students and job seekers see the full article here.

Careers: Graduation vs Job Availability

The odds are that you will change careers several times during your working years. It then makes sense in career planning to gain skills that are transferable and select education targets that meet future opportunities. Do the research necessary to keep you career flexible and responsive to the job market.

For a discussion of the current career – opportunity picture, see the article here.

Top Career Opportunities by Degrees

Whether in school or in any stage of employment, looking forward in time is a good idea. A time horizon of several years is useful for making mid course adjustments in your career, or course of study. Being aware of the likely-hood of a demand for your skills and talents is a realistic objective.

The article here presents projections of employment demand in various fields and for varying levels of  educational programs.

Careers: What is Your Plan B? Plan C?

Whether you are a youth preparing to attend college or a working adult, the odds are your career path will change a few times both during your education and working years. It is a good idea to plan to gain skills that are transferable and select education targets that match future opportunities. Be aware of the trends and keep you career flexible and responsive to the job market which will certainly change during your college / employment years.

Here's a look at the current changing career – opportunity picture in Colorado which is the first-part of a four-part career planning series.  See the article here.