The Most Important Decision Of Your Massage Business Career

Don't you find that there are so many decisions you need to make each and every day regarding the direction of your massage practice. Especially if you are a solo-preneur or own your own massage business.

As a business owner myself I know at times it can seem overwhelming, wearing all the hats of massage therapist, marketer, salesperson, office administrator... and the list goes on.

Yet there is one key decision that will chart the course of your business and will ultimately determine your level of success long term. This decision will also increase your chances of staying the course till you have your ideal massage practice.

Can you think what that might be?

Well, let me ask you...

Are you trying to build a massage practice? Are you hoping to get more clients? Are you feeling it out to see how it goes? Or have you committed to building the business of your dreams... no matter what!

Many therapists can't wait to finish massage school, find the ideal location for their practice, and jump right in there looking for ways to fill their schedule book with clients. But when things don't work out quite as smoothly as they expected, they get frustrated and give up all too easily... because they never stopped to make that all important decision that they were absolutely committed to building a successful massage business.

This decision is a turning point. It announces to the world that not succeeding is no longer an option. This decision will inspire you to take action, even when things get rough.

My husband Francis is also a massage practitioner (jointly we have over 30 years in the profession). Early on in his career he traveled with motivational speaker, Anthony Robbins, as his personal massage therapist. One of the things that Tony used to say was, "To get new results you must take new actions, and all actions are fathered by a decision."

So, what fundamental decision have you committed to regarding your massage practice? And is it a decision that inspires you to take action? Can you write it down somewhere that you will see on a daily basis?

OK, so you have made your decision...but do you believe it? Do you have the confidence in yourself to carry it through? In his classic book, Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill said that if you can conceive of something and believe that you can do it, then you can! And the more you believe in yourself the more likely you are to achieve your goals and manifest your dreams.

So what are your beliefs about:

Your skills as a massage therapist? Your ability to attract your ideal clients? Your ability to build and sustain a successful massage practice? Your ability to create prosperity and abundance (and maybe even complete financial freedom) in your life?

Because until you believe that you can do it, you won't take the sustained action necessary to build a thriving business. And that would be a terrible shame because you have unique gifts to share in a way that nobody else can, and there are people for you to work with that no one else can help in quite the same way as you.

So, if your "belief muscles" are a little atrophied, how do you build them up? Here are some things you can do:

• Write a list of all the reasons why you WILL succeed in your business and read it every day and every night.
• Create a concise "belief statement" or declaration and post it where you will see it often.
• Listen to and read about how others have succeeded.
• Once you have made your committed decision just get in action and then make course corrections as you go. It is always easier to make adjustments when you are in motion, whereas procrastination will get you nowhere. And remember, getting in action reduces fear and doubt.
• Work with a coach or mentor to help keep you on track.

So let's face it, as you grow your business there will be times when you will feel challenged, when you have to move outside your comfort zone, when you make mistakes, and when you doubt yourself and your abilities. This happens to us all! And you can either let these things undermine your confidence and sabotage your success, or use them to strengthen your decision to build the business of your dreams...no matter what!

A Native American elder once described his own inner turmoil like this: "It feels as if there are two dogs inside of me. One of the dogs is always fearful, anxious and filled with doubt. The other dog is playful and confident. The worried dog fights the joyful dog all the time." When asked by his friend which dog wins, he thought about it for a moment and replied, "The one I feed the most."

So which dog do you feed? The one that is doubtful and full of fear, or the dog that is joyful and successful? The choice is yours alone to make. But don't make it lightly. Because the answer will greatly influence the success not only of your massage business, but of your entire life.

Elizabeth Fletcher Brown LMT, a Certified Success Coach is the founder of the Massage Business Center, dedicated to supporting massage therapists in creating financial freedom through business success. Do you really have what it takes to build the massage business of your dreams? Take our free online assessment at http://www.MassageBusinessCenter.com and find out.

[tags]massage business, massage practice, massage therapy business, massage therapy, massage[/tags]

The Top 10 Reasons Your Staff Wants To Quit

From an employee's perspective, management often conducts itself in ways that make no sense. When the economy is slow, jobs are few and far in between or people are fearful, staff will tolerate management behaviors and policies that are nonsensical (in their eyes) or they judge are harmful.

But when staff gets together for lunch and they start critiquing management, these are the Top 10 Reasons Why Staff Quit.

10. "My boss is arrogant and believes his own press clippings." As a result, staff feels taken advantage of..

9. "My manager micromanages rather than trusting staff to perform." Staff hates the boss and looks for ways to resist being over controlled.

8. "My manager is crushing my drive and desire." Hired because they were smart and energetic, the manager is afraid that she will not be seen as the shining light (the reason for success) and crushes the very qualities that made the new employee attractive to hire (and desirous of joining).

7. "My boss guesses what is needed without resorting to data or facts." Maybe he has the facts, but they sure aren't being communicated leaving the impression of "It's my way or the highway." There are a lot of new roads being built in this country and staff will leave rather than be abused.

6. "I'm treated like a child." Look, there are often generational differences between how managers and employees work. Younger workers may have "know-it-all" attitudes and unfamiliar techniques using technology to accomplish tasks. Staff feels misunderstood and resent their boss.

5. "Manager promotes someone from a different function who does understand the job and how to be successful." Staff does not believe they can learn from this person, judges her to be an anchor around their department and resents that they were passed over for promotion.

4. "My boss is extremely critical." The only way they interpret their boss is pleased is in the absence of nit picking.

3. "I get ideas lobbed at me with little clarity and I have to figure out what is really wanted." Staff is caught between a rock and a hard place and doesn't know the target of the task or have a clear idea of what needs to get done.

2. "I don't have sufficient resources to get the job done." Fitting 10 pounds of stuff into a five pound bag is pretty tough. Imagine you're the ten pounds and have to get squeezed in there! Staff often believes they have inadequate resources to get a job done.

And the number one reason your staff wants to quit:

"My company is grossly underpaying me." Show me the money! Staff can read job ads online and learn what their real value is. As much as they may love you and their work, eventually people realize they need to pay their bills and start to think of leaving.

Your staff, the ones you are mistreating or taking for granted are your competition's staffing solution (just as theirs is for you). Rather than taking their continued employment for granted, motivate them, excite them, coach and encourage them and they will go do anything for you (at almost any price).

Jeff Altman Concepts in Staffing jeffaltman@cisny.com

© 2004 all rights reserved.

Jeff Altman, Managing Director with Concepts in Staffing, a New York search firm, has successfully assisted many corporations identify management leaders and staff in technology, accounting, finance, sales, marketing and other disciplines since 1971. He is also a certified leader of the ManKind Project, a not for profit organization that assists men with life issues, and a practicing psychotherapist.

For additional job hunting or hiring tips, go to http://www.newyorkmetrotechnologyjobs.com

If you would like Jeff and his firm to assist you with hiring staff, or if you would like help with a strategic job change, send an email to him at jeffaltman@cisny.com (If you're looking for a new position, include your resume).

[tags]employment, human resources, management, career, hiring[/tags]

21st Century Career Success

When it comes to modern career development, one thing we can all count on is change. With the advent of technology, telecommuting, and E-commerce, how work is performed is in a state of reinvention. Self-employment and small business development will become more the norm than big business. And career changes will be more frequent due to rapidly changing organizations and industries. Finally, the line between one's personal and professional life will become even more blurred. Since the modern world of work is rapidly changing to keep up with the demands of our fast-paced lives and lifestyles, here are some characteristics of what the new work contract will look like:

• Seeking more meaning from work.

• Equating "career success" with personal satisfaction over paycheck or status.

• Everyone will need their own "name-brand."

• Increased use of technology.

• Finding work that needs doing.

• Changing in the way management and leadership is conducted (less arrogance at the top level, more power on lower levels).

• Increased need for networking and self-marketing.

• Lifelong "trying on" of various roles, jobs, and industries.

• Creating a plan that is flexible, and continually assessing the "fit" of the work.

• Increased representation of women and minorities in the workforce.

• Changing career fields numerous times in a lifetime.

• Self-responsibility: Everyone knowing they have to chart their own career direction.

However, the 21st century career also offers many advantages:

• More career opportunities for everyone.

• Freedom to choose from a variety of jobs, tasks, and assignments.

• More flexibility in how and where work is performed, i.e. working from home or telecommuting.

• More control over your own time.

• Greater opportunity to express yourself through your work.

• Ability to shape and reshape your life's work in accordance with your values and interests.

• Increased opportunity to develop other skills by working in various industries and environments.

• Self-empowerment mindset.

• Allows you to create situations or positions where you can fill a need in the world that is not being filled.

• Opportunity to present yourself as an independent contractor or vendor with services to offer.

How can you successfully navigate through the turbulent times of change and career uncertainty? By developing resiliency, exercising proactivity, creating excellent self-marketing tools, keeping your skills up-to-date, and finding your unique life balance.

1. Develop resiliency (the ability to bounce back).

Having the right attitude about career change is imperative to your ability to bounce back from setbacks, sudden changes, and twists and turns along your career path. You will experience a lot of career change and transitions, so you may as well get comfortable feeling uncomfortable.

2. Take a proactive approach to your career development

You must constantly be on the lookout for new ways to apply your gifts and talents in the new economy. This requires thinking creatively, actively promoting yourself/business, and being actively involved in how your career progresses. Staying involved in professional associations, and continuous networking are excellent ways to connect with other like-minded professionals.

3. Create first-rate marketing materials

Always keep your resume current. You never know when you are going to want to share it with someone or pass it along. If you are in business for yourself, develop classy business cards and letterhead. Harness the power of the internet by developing an interactive website.

4. Commit to lifelong learning

To keep earning, keep learning. Do not wait until you lose your job or want to look for another position to gain new skills or training. Recognize the need to be open to learning and attend classes related to your area of expertise to keep your skills sharp and marketable. Keep in mind the top skills needed for career success include:Communication, Computer-knowledge, Creativity, Customer Care

5. Find your unique life balance

There are four dimensions to life: love, labor, leisure, learning. Remember that work is just one aspect of your life pie. Be sure to indulge in all of your areas. Because having an overall balanced life is what leads to the most fulfillment.

About The Author

Michelle L. Casto, M.Ed. is a Whole Life Coach, Speaker, and Author of the Get Smart! LearningBook Series: Get Smart! About Modern Romantic Relationships and Get Smart! About Modern Career Development. She can be reached at coach@getsmartseries.com (361) 816-0685. Visit virtually: www.getsmartseries.com and www.brightlightcoach.com

[tags]career,jobs,business,skills,change,self improvement,positive attitude[/tags]

Business Careers Keys To Moving On From Retrenchment

You may be astonished to realize that retrenchment may occur more than once during the life of the modern day worker. In fact, career advisors report that we could expect to be made redundant up to three times during our working life.

As common as retrenchment is, when it happens, no one likes it. Whatever range of emotions initially emerge - fear, anger, resentment, retaliation, humiliation, disappointment - we should recognise as being quite normal. How we respond and deal with the situation will influence our entire financial future and how quickly we move through these negative emotions.

This article will assist those people who may wonder how to deal with retrenchment. These ten keys will help you move on quickly and re-establish yourself in a productive working environment.

1. Don't take it personally.
Redundancy is rarely, if ever, personal. Don't let it affect your self-confidence and morale. In most cases retrenchments occur as a result of changing economic situations, mergers or acquisitions which are typically outside most people's span of control.

2. Retrenchment is not an end, but rather a beginning.
Even though we may not expect it, throughout various stages of our lives doors close and others open. When one door closes and it is a shock, we may not immediately see other doors opening.

3. Take advantage of outplacement support.
If you company provides outplacement support - make full use of it. If no outplacement support has been provided ask if the company could provide assistance with a registered outplacement firm. Research has shown that job seekers with the assistance of a qualified outplacement consultant have better strike rate in job interviews.

4. Sort out your finances.
Discuss with your partner or spouse your financial position and make adjustments where necessary. Few people realize that this transition may be a gift to help you change directions. Poor financial planning may propel you into a less than favourable job and close down opportunities to explore what you really would like to be doing.

5. Be realistic about time.
Expect things to take a while. The more senior your previous job, the longer it will take to find something else at the same level. If you change careers to start your own business it will take time for you to achieve the same feelings of effectiveness. Be patient when making a new transition and go easy on yourself by not expecting too much, too soon.

6. Forget the 'labels'.
Recruitment consultants are rarely concerned with the fact you were retrenched. They are more interested in how you respond when the chips are down and what you did about and how quickly you took control of your situation. It's not what happens in life that distinguishes us, but rather what we do about it. Very likely the person interviewing you for your next job has been retrenched themselves at some stage!

7. Explore all options.
Talk to a specialist career advisor or business coach. This may just be the chance to propel you in a new direction. With assistance you may uncover skills and pathways you may not have previously had the time, inclination or confidence to embrace. Alternate pathways such as owning your own business or franchise may offer you financial security and personal flexibility.

8. Get some exercise.
There is limited appeal in sitting around the house in your pajamas until lunchtime. Get up early and get some exercise. The endorphins will keep your mind energetic and creative and assist you through the transition.

9. Volunteer your time to a worthwhile cause that interests you.
This will help keep your self esteem high and provide activities that may help you explore new avenues, or maintain your current skills. At the very least it will keep you busy and stop your brain turning into "TV-mush".

10. Feed your spirit.
Finding exhilarating testimonies of people who succeed against all odds. If you are not an avid reader, then now is the time to start and ensure you are keeping your mind positively challenged with the heroes of our time. It will help keep things in perspective.

Kim Beardsmore operates a successful international marketing business. She is a mentor and coach for others wanting to operate their own home business. If you are serious about earning money from home and are willing to work, then we'd like to help you grow a profitable business. We offer complete training, online and offline resources and a partnership for success: http://free2liv.com/?refid=rtnchmnt-567885686

[tags]work at home, work from home, retrenchment, redundancy, outplacement, job, career, home business, sm[/tags]

Job Searching Exploration

I had the privilege to watch my son, Noah, by myself last night for a few hours since my wife, his mother, had to work late. Dad and son had a grand old time playing and crawling and destroying everything that got in our path!

My son just turned seven months old yesterday which means he is willing to explore everything and anything. Now I will say that according to the web sites we read he is acting like he is 10 or 12 months, not seven. He is able to crawl at a very high rate of speed, pull himself up on anything that will support his weight, babble on and on trying to make syllables, feed himself, and so on. Since he is so into exploring every part of the house I allowed him to more or less have free reign and tear up what ever wasn't bolted down.

First we started in the dining room and the box of toys. After about a few minutes of exploring the toy box every toy he owned was scattered all over the dining room floor. You would think that he would play with the toys he just scattered across the floor, but no, he was already crawling toward the next "play area."

Next we crawled into the kitchen where he destroyed the side of the fridge that had magnets sticking to it. After about another minute or two every magnet we owned, that he could reach, was scattered all over the floor. Since the magnets aren't any fun once they are on the floor he noticed the four liters of soda sitting on the floor near the fridge. Instantly he forgets the magnets and crawls over to knock down the soda bottles that were lined so neatly against the wall.

This exploration night continued back into the living room where we found the coffee table. Now I don't know what you keep on your coffee table but on our coffee table we keep out three TV remotes, books, papers, magazines, and other miscellaneous items. You would think since we have a seven month old that we would keep the table clear, but no we don't. Noah found the coffee table; pulled himself up and began working his way around the table to throw everything on the floor. Now you have to remember that he only stands about six to 10 inches above the table when he is standing and he cannot stand up on his own yet. So when he is throwing everything to the floor he is doing it with one hand because he has to use the other one to steady himself. It is quite cute.

After the coffee table it was on to the TV stand, and then back to the dining room for his diaper bag and then finally into daddy's office. Needless to say by the time my wife came home, around 10PM, I was fairly tired but more importantly Noah was exhausted and sleeping. Daddy had successfully tired him out and put him to bed before mommy came home.

Now for those of you who are not parents yet this is important. You see "mommy" is usually considered the one who has the "touch" to put Noah or any child to sleep. Don't get me wrong I do put Noah to bed every other night, but on some nights it does take "mommy's" touch to come in and finish off the job. However, on this particular night Daddy had "the touch." My wife was quite impressed and yet sad at the same time since by the time she got home Noah was already in bed and she did not get to say good night. I would assume she thought he would still be up because as you know, mommy is the only one who can truly put him to sleep right?. It was a great night for me as a father as I have finally learned the art of putting my son to sleep without having to call in the cavalry, my wife.

Now let me tie this back to finding a job. As you can see by the story above my son is very curious and explorative. He goes everywhere and anywhere to find something new to tear up. He is willing to look in new places, and crawl to new locations to find something he can put in his mouth and eventually toss aside. I think you as a job seeker might be able to learn a couple of things from Noah. Are you willing to search far and wide for a job or have you pigeon-holed yourself into a few web sites, or a few contacts that you feel will eventually pay off? Finding a job can be a very involved and drawn out process. You may need to spend a couple of minutes in one area, determine what you can glean from that resource and then move on. Put the business card in your follow up pile and then find another resource. Don't get stuck in the job seekers rut by always going back to the same place for help. If you're local networking group isn't paying off for you, move on. Find another one. If your college career center isn't offering much help in the way of contacts, move on. Find another career counselor. When you are searching for a job you cannot get bogged down by those who aren't really interested in helping you or those who aren't qualified to help you. If you talk to enough people, search enough web sites, create a knock out resume, you will find a job. It may take time but it will happen. Make sure you are spending your time wisely since you are unemployed and you don't have much time to waste. The longer you stay in that job seekers rut the longer you go without a pay check, health insurance, retirement, etc.

In closing, learn from Noah; don't waste time in places that aren't helping you anymore. Learn what you can from the resources you have connected with but don't allow them to slow down your job searching process which in turn slows down your timeframe for landing a job!

Happy searching!

Justin Driscoll is a professional speaker and author. He helps people find their passion in life and not a job! His web site is www.justindriscoll.net

[tags]networking, job searching, career change, careers, jobs, finding a job[/tags]

Top 10 Steps To Catapult Your Career Up The Corporate Ladder

Every career success story is unique. While there isn't a magic answer for taking your career to the top, following these ten steps will get you headed up the corporate ladder.

1. Reassess your career. Is your career path well aligned with your priorities and interest? Do you posses, or can you acquire, the experience and education to be successful? If not, consider a lateral move and work your way up from there.

2. Clearly define your career goals. Only when you know exactly where it is you want to go, will you be able to map out your plan to get there.

3. Create a development plan. Determine the steps you need to take for your next promotion. Include resources and due dates. Schedule these activities in your planner and follow through.

4. Communicate your career goals with management. If you work in an organization that promotes employee development, communicate your goals with your manager and ask for his or her support. If you are concerned about resistance, find a mentor within the organization that you can trust.

5. Volunteer to spearhead a new project. This shows initiative, puts you in a visible position, and builds new skills. It also gives you the opportunity to showcase your leadership skills.

6. Stay current in your field. Read industry publications and reports. Be aware of changing trends and position yourself accordingly.

7. Take classes or obtain a certification. Use your industry knowledge to your advantage. Take a course in an up and coming area or a specialty that will benefit your organization and give you an edge over the competition.

8. Assume a leadership role. Offer to mentor a junior associate in your organization, apply for a position on a local board, or chair a committee for a nonprofit organization.

9. Network, Network, Network. Within your organization and within the community. Increasing your visibility and gaining contacts are vital to your success when climbing the corporate ladder. No one ever got to the top alone.

10. Excel in your current position. Exceptional performance speaks for itself. You won't get ahead with mediocre performance, regardless of how many other steps you implement.

Jill Frank is "The Promotion Coach." Get her FREE report, "7 Unintentional Actions That Will Slow Your Climb Up the Corporate Ladder" and FREE advice on corporate advancement at http://www.corporateadvancementcoach.com

[tags]climbing the corporate ladder, job promotions, career advancement, careers, career development[/tags]

The Inevitable Job Interview Question "Why Did You Leave (Are Planning To Leave) Your Last Position

This is a question that you can almost count on being asked at your next interview What the interviewer wants to know is, "Why are you available?"

The answer you give could set the tone for the rest of the interview. For instance, if you were to indicate that you were bored or burned out at your last job, the interviewer would quickly become concerned about your performance at this company. The question can be especially tricky if you've had less than favorable conditions regarding your departure from a company. Regardless of the circumstances that have caused you to move, or are causing you to think about moving, you should be prepared to answer this question.

Below are examples of possible answers to this critical question. After reading them try to determine which is the strongest answer.

(A) The company had a re-organization, and my department was eliminated. The work had begun to dwindle so it was not a complete surprise. I liked my job and the people I was working with so I had been hoping that it wouldn't affect us but unfortunately we were all let go. I would like to find a job similar to the one I lost.

(B) I am looking for a new challenge. I have been with my current company for two years now and don't find the work as interesting as I once did. I am looking for a company where I can take on new challenges and grow. My current job is dead-ended for me.

(C) Since there are no advancement opportunities within the company, I have decided it would be a good time for me to look outside. I have set some career goals for myself that I could not achieve at that company. What I am looking for is a job with a bigger company where I can contribute, but also move on a career path that has more responsibility.

Have you selected the strongest answer? See if you agree with the advice below.

The Strongest Answer

(A) This is the strongest answer, not because of the lay off, but because it has an upbeat tone to it. You liked what you did and were hoping it wouldn't happen. In other words, if it hadn't been for something out of your control you would still be there. The answer indicates a good attitude about an unfortunate incident.

The Mediocre Answer

(C) This is an ok answer. It is natural to want to take on more responsibility. It is also acceptable to quit a job. A skilled interviewer would follow up with a question about your career goals and why you think you can achieve them at this company. Would you have an answer prepared for that follow-up question?

The Weakest Answer

(B) This is the weaker answer because it is trite. One of the most common answers to this question is that you are "looking for a challenge." An interviewer might be concerned that if you were bored at your last job, you might find this job boring as well, or at least not "challenging" enough.

There are no "right" or "wrong" answers to this type of question, but there are ways of saying the same thing in a way that will make a stronger impression. Before you head out to your next interview consider preparing for this and other difficult questions. A little time spent preparing and scripting of your answers before the interview will make a huge difference in the way you answer the question during the interview. (Excerpts taken from "Boost Your Interview IQ" – Carole Martin – McGraw-Hill 2004)

About The Author

Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and an interview coach. Her books, 'Interview Fitness Training Workbook' and 'Boost Your Interview IQ' (McGraw Hill) have sold thousands of copies world-wide. Receive Carole's FREE job interview tips by visiting her web site at: http://www.interviewcoach.com

[tags]jobs,interview,job interview,employment,career[/tags]

Get Beyond Your Tasks

Ever hear the story of the two masons working side by side at a building site? They're doing the same work under pretty much the same conditions. Then, one day a stranger comes along, approaches one of the men and asks him, "What are you doing?" "I don't know and I don't care," replies the man, his voice brimming with irritation. All I do is slap this crummy mortar on these crummy bricks and pile them up in a crummy line. That's what I'm doing."

The stranger returns to the building site the next day. This time he approaches the second man, asking him the same question. "Tell me," he said, "what are you doing?" Smiling at the stranger, the man proudly replies, "Why, I'm helping to build the new cathedral."

I don't know about you, but in my twenty years in management I met plenty of people like the first mason. People doing what they were told to do, without a greater context or purpose. People focused on what they were doing, not why they were doing it. People who clearly didn't like their job, and clearly weren't winning at working.

When you define the purpose for your work, you create a vision behind the tasks, and that vision changes results. Think about it. What are you helping to build in your workplace? Why does your work matter? Before you say it doesn't, think again. You have an important role or you wouldn't be paid to do it. Of course, it's unlikely you'll find the purpose outlined in your job description. You see, defining your purpose is not about the tasks you do. It's about the reason for the tasks.

So if you're an employment specialist in Human Resources, your purpose is not to hire people. That's a task. The reason behind the task might be to increase your company's competitive edge with exceptional people. If you're a web designer, your job is not to build websites. That's a task. Your purpose is in the why of it. Maybe it's to build the corporate brand or make life easier for your customers. Look beyond your title.

In one of my jobs, my purpose was to help the company develop a winning culture; in another it was to help build trust in the corporate brand so new customers would give us a try. My job title would never have told you about either.

But here's a secret. People who are winning at working don't wait for someone else, like their boss, to define their work's purpose. They figure it out. They define it. They create a vision for themselves.

People who are winning at working can articulate how the work they do supports their organization's vision, values, goals and objectives. They're not satisfied doing tasks like the first mason. They're like the second. They want to understand and contribute to the whole. They want to know that what they do at work matters. Want to be winning at working? Define your work's purpose. And get beyond your tasks.

(c) 2005 Nan S. Russell. All rights reserved.

Sign up to receive Nan's free biweekly eColumn at http://www.winningatworking.com. Nan Russell has spent over twenty years in management, most recently with QVC as a Vice President. She has held leadership positions in Human Resource Development, Communication, Marketing and line Management. Nan has a B.A. from Stanford University and M.A. from the University of Michigan. Currently working on her first book, Winning at Working: 10 Lessons Shared, Nan is a writer, columnist, small business owner, and instructor.

Visit http://www.nanrussell.com or contact Nan at info@nanrussell.com.

[tags]winning, working, work, success, win, motivation, purpose, vision, results, career[/tags]

Overcoming The 7 Roadblocks Women With Families Face Making Career Changes

Family is the driving force of our lives. You need family to support you and in most homes you need money to support your family. You work to support your family but you usually end up spending little time with them because of your 9-5 job. According to a Gallop poll 70% of Americans hate their jobs.

Life is funny sometimes. Its so easy to find yourself in a job you don't love, in a career that doesn't drive you or longing for passion in our work. Sometimes we find ourselves there after even a long road of education in a field we were certain was the right choice for us.

The good thing about life is that it is forever changing; sometimes due to circumstances and sometimes due to personal choices. I would argue that we have many more personal choices that we think we do. For every reason someone gives me that they cant make a change, I can give them two reasons they need to.

There are certainly roadblocks that can seem to disable our dreams but I believe with the right beliefs, motivation, accountability and resources, all things are possible. Lets look at overcoming some of the most common obstacles women face making career changes that will allow them more time with their family.

1. Finding the right career that fuels your passion. How great would it be to wake up every morning and be excited to work? How about loving what you do so much that you talk about it with everyone you know? We are all born with natural talents and abilities. We use them when we are young and believe it or not we still use them every day. It's all about tuning in to yourself and recognizing what makes you tick. Tuning in means paying very close attention to the things you do in your regular routine that bring you great pleasure. What could you do for hours on end and never realize how much time has passed. What are the things you do every day that get your juices flowing. What "feeeeeels" good and motivates you to do more? And equally it is wise to look at the things in your life that you don't enjoy. What makes you cringe? What do you put off til the last minute? You know what I'm talking about! We all have those things and they are best not to be the things that take up the majority of our time. Take this first step and start tuning in.

2. Making the kind of money that will pay the bills and more. There are several jobs that pay a lot of money but it is up to you to define "a lot of money." You may need to look at the bigger picture. How much is it worth to you to be able to not commute an hour to work? Not only will you save on gas and wear and tear on your car, but also you will be saving precious time with your family. You can put a dollar amount on some things but not all. Now to determine what careers will bring you the amount of money that you have defined as "enough" or "a lot." Do some research. After you have gone through the exercise detailed above, you will be able to see what careers entail the things you enjoy the most. The Internet is a beautiful tool where you can see the salary ranges for different careers (http://content.salary.monster.com/?WT_srch=1&WT.mc_n=01;CRC;GOO). Maybe you want to branch out on your own. Having a life coach can significantly help you in figuring out what works best for you given your skills and what resources you will need to achieve your goals.

3. Keeping health insurance. There is a certain security to working for a company, paying a set amount of money every paycheck and not worrying about health insurance. There are several plans available to entrepreneurs and women in business that offer customized plans for your specific family needs. Check online for small business health insurance and check out the options. There are several plans that can meet your needs and when you are making the money you want – this will not be an issue and until then you can always take advantage of a cobra plan where you pay the group rate for insurance for a period of time until you find the right plan for you.

4. Sticking to your goals and staying motivated. This is a tricky one. There are several steps to creating your goals and then a different set of tools to help you stick to them. You may have more than one goal. Your first goal may be to spend more time with your family. You can begin doing this way before you determine what career you would like to move into. Another goal may be to leave your current job by a certain time. Yet another may be to make a certain amount of money in your first year. Breaking down your goals into categories will help you to stick to them more easily. Family goals, career goals and money goals are a few good ones to start with. You can expand your list as you see success with these first three. Don't get discouraged, many people try out goals and revise them several times before accomplishing them. Just remember they are yours – make them attainable and fun! As far as staying motivated it is hugely important to be extremely specific as to "why" you really want to accomplish the goal. I want to spend more time with my kids…good…but why? What about that is important to you or your family? I want to make $100K…good…but why? What will it make you feel when you accomplish that? Make sure you have a partner that can help keep you accountable.

5. Identifying resources needed. There are so many resources out there for you to draw from when making transitions such as this. There are internal resources; talents you have, people you know, places you have worked for, the list is endless. Tap into those when looking at making any change. What do I have at my fingertips that can help me accomplish what I'm setting out to do? Write these down! These are the skills I have, these are the friends family and co-workers that can help me, these are the places I have come in contact with that have things I may need to use. There are also external resources. Places that you have yet to tap into; the Internet; newspapers; people, again, the list is unlimited. This is where the work comes in. Identifying what is out there that will help you with your task at hand. Make it fun. Several people I have worked with have realized that it is very useful to have another person to brainstorm with.

6. Timing the transition. This is a very flexible thing. It may change as you accomplish certain aspects of your goals. You might feel the need to have all of your eggs aligned to feel comfortable making your move. Your family needs may change and it will be good to stay flexible here. Part of your goals will be attaching a timeline to certain things and when those things are accomplished you can then move on to the next phase of that goal or a whole new goal. Be patient with yourself and ask others to have patience with you too. As long as you are making progress and achieving successes you are headed in the right direction. Trust your gut; you will know when the timing is right.

7. Dealing with "nay-sayers." There will always be some skeptic ready to burst your balloon. Someone is bound to tell you that you cant do it, you shouldn't do it, or ask you why you aren't just happy with what you have. You and only you know what is best for your family and your family's needs. Trust yourself. If you are waking up every morning almost in tears at the thought of heading to work, then you need a change. People say things all the time for several different reasons. Some are envious that you have the guts to try something new. Some are miserable themselves and you know the saying! Some simply think they know what's best for you because they have lived longer than you. Some may even have great intentions by warning you about the risks and for that reason you should certainly explore the risks ahead of time so you come from a place of knowledge when the subject is brought up. With that said, go ahead and make choices to enhance your life and take the "nay-sayers" out to lunch when its all said and done. You will be happy to do it because you will BE happy when you are spending more time with your family while making all the money you need.

This report is brought to you by: Monique Houde – Founder of Freedom Coaching

www.opcweb.com/freedom

Monique has been working with people for over 10 years. She has coached people to start their own business, cheered them on as they exceeded their goals, coached many through difficult decisions, been a personal relationship mentor and celebrated great successes.

Time management, goal setting, moving through disappointment, weighing out choices, confidence building, soul searching and life balancing are just some of the skills that Monique's clients have learned through coaching.

For more information about working with Monique as a Life Coach and to receive your FREE 30 minute consultation please call 978-764-6600

[tags]career,family,business,children,jobs,roadblocks,time,money,balance,life changes[/tags]

Goal Setting - Road Map To Achieving Your Career Goals

Goal Setting & Research

You can only set informed career goals if you acquire plenty of information about the career choices open to you. This will require research which can be conducted online or through a local library. You can also visit professional career planning offices to find out about the services they offer.

While goal setting, you should consider all possible alternatives available to you

Maybe some career that you never thought of before, will appear as the right choice for you.

Goal setting can give you the direction that ultimately leads you to achieving your desired career goals.

Job seekers looking for a transition into a new career need to take time to begin their goal setting process.

Types Of Goals

There are two types of goal setting, short term and long term. Short term goals are the things you want to accomplish before three years. Long term goals are the things you will be working to accomplish through many years.

Besides your professional goals, you should also take into account the personal goals you want to accomplish over a period of time .

Your personal goals may involve your family, relationships, travel, education you want to complete and leisure time you want to set aside. Your personal and professional goals are intertwined and are an important part of the goal setting process.

Decision Time...

After your research, you will have to make a decision. The decision should take into account not only the end goal but your path towards achieving that goal. You should write down the goals so you can map your way to achieving them.

Your goal setting exercises should help develop well defined goals, instead of general and imprecise ones

It is important that you realize your commitment to the goals you have set for yourself. You will be highly committed if the goals you set are something you really want to accomplish.

Make Your Goals Realistic

If your goals are too hard to accomplish, you will be constantly falling short.

You probably want to become CEO the first year you start working for a company. The goal might be highly tempting but probably not realistic.

You also need to set you goals to be fairly challenging, rather than just sticking to simple and easy to attain goals.

Be Flixible... Times Change

As previously stated, you will most likely need to update and change your goals as you go through life. Therefore it is important to be flexible in your career goals and to continue with the process to adjust your career goals over time.

Also remember to have a positive attitude about the goals you have set. Thus you will be encouraged with every step you take towards achieving your goals.

Goal Setting & Resumes

After you have gone through the process of setting your career goals, the next step is to construct your resume. Your resume may be one the most important documents you will ever create.

You can use the results you got from your career goal exercises to formulate an objective for your resume. Remember to make the objective section precise and to the point instead of creating wordy objectives that do not say much.

In the later sections of the resume you will have to list your education and experiences which will help you contribute to the company you are applying for and help you attain your goals.

The goal setting process will also help you devise your career plan

The career plan involves knowing where you want to go and how to get there. It involves matching your interests and skills with the right job type.

As you can see a lot depends on the goal setting process. Well defined goals can help you through your job search process, especially developing a resume and through the job interview process. It will also help you develop a long term career plan, that can provide you with guidance and help you avoid distractions.

Article courtesy of Top Career Resumes, where you can get the answers you need about writing winning resumes, cover letters and more. The author, Roger Clark (BSc) has over 25 years experience in career development & recruitment at a senior level through top management positions he has held with major international companies.

Career Articles - Advice on resumes, career planning, goal / objective setting & aptitude testing.

[tags]goal setting, career goals, personal goals, planning, resumes[/tags]

Slogans Creating And Using Them In Life, Career And Business

Information is coming at us from all directions nowadays. This pace requires us to demand that we receive it fast and predigested in order to inch ahead of the game. This also requires a new filing system method for storing the bites and bytes.

In this article, we will go into greater details on:

* Why slogans are important in today's society fast-pace information systems.

* What is a slogan?

* Learn the six major types of slogans.

* The many uses for slogans.

* Seven ways to make slogans memorable.

First, lets create a clear definition for a slogan. A slogan is a noun, usually repeated and persuasive that creates a memorable catch phrase, motto, or jingle, that expresses a particular aim or concept. A concept that you want to stick in your audience's mind like glue to paper.

Second, what makes a slogan memorable? Brevity is first in line -- normally 10 words or less. Rhythm is the only exception to brevity. Rhythm is easier to create if there is an association to the receiver's past -- like a particular jingle on TV during their teen years for those now in their 50s. I still hold one from a TV ad long ago, "Winston tastes good like a cigarette should." And I never smoked.

An additional method is through repetition or language vividness. More on this later.

Third, what are the benefits for using slogans? Brevity, as mentioned earlier, meets the requirements of today's fast pace. Slogans also influence decisions, persuade, and add credibility. Our brains are like filing cabinets. A slogan makes it easier to file and pull when needed. For NLPers, neuro-linguistic programming, slogans create anchors. When people repeat the slogan, then consider it filed.

There are five major slogan types:

(1) A feature -- a uniqueness or difference between a substance, product or object. Ex: "Write an ebook in 7 days."

(2) A benefit -- a result that someone receives. Remember, this saves you [time or money].

(3) A question -- thought-provoking methods. "How would you like to be a millionaire in three years?"

(4) A challenge -- a dare. Ex: The Marines, "We are only looking for a few good men."

(5) A structure -- a design or collection put together for a single purpose. Ex: "The Abundance Center holds all the information you will ever need to know on abundance."

There are seven ways to make a slogan memorable:

(1) Make it exciting

(2) Be boastful or exaggerated

(3) Self-referencing

(4) Metaphorical, playful or humorous

(5) Inspirational or uplifting

(6) To trigger painful memories or possibilities

(7) Use of vivid or freshful language

Okay, the basics are out of the way. Yet to come: How to use slogans in your personal life, career, and business. Including examples for re-enforcement.

Create Life Slogans

Life slogans help energize goals, dreams, and even change beliefs. One of my favorite slogans gets me jumping out of bed every morning (benefit, self-referencing): "Everyday begins as a clean new slate, I am free to choose what gets written there." Is there a slogan that swirls around in your head in the morning? Share it with others -- write a poem or create a story about it.

Playtime: Create a life slogan, two or three, that get you hopping. Try them out for a day or two. Measure their energy from 1-10 (10 being highest). Share and ask for feedback.

Do you have children? Create positive slogans that rhythm and trigger action. I don't recommend negative slogans like, "Last one in, is a rotten egg." Create positive slogans, "First one in, gets a hug (rhythm and action). This slogan is a little too cute, yet it makes my point.

Create Career Slogans

Do you belong to Toastmasters or give presentations? Use slogans for the title, then repeat it in your content along with its meaning, and as the last line. Watch how many mention its affects afterwards. Create a new one for each speech.

Create interview slogans. Ones that help them remember you. Know the company's slogan. Create a slogan that builds on you're your features and benefits of why they need to hire you. Use it during the interview. You can create one that can use one or two of the different types: self- referencing, metaphorical or inspirational.

Slogans are powerful enough that people, like comedians and actors, have developed entire careers around them. You don't need to be famous to start. Slogans can even become book titles later on.

Business Slogans

In business, slogans are usable for self-introductions, prospective presentations, on web sites, in e-mail signatures, and even speaking engagements.

Example: You are a coach giving a presentation for a contract with a company for life coaching or business coaching. Create a slogan for a process or concept on what applications you will be using. Or give the process an acronym, like S.T.O.P. [something]. Let the acronym be the start of the slogan. Create one for your complimentary sessions. You can also create a slogan to share each week with your clients.

Be creative, use a slogan in each of your sales and marketing processes, change them frequently if you need to. Sold a contract a year ago with one slogan, create another, and sell them another contract this year.

Use slogans in article titles, ebooks or books. Sometimes a slogan takes off and becomes so memorable it becomes the brand for a company. Coke Cola with the slogan, "The real thing," took themselves to first place in the marketplace with these three words. Everything afterwards just wasn't the real thing.

Creating a Slogan

Where do you start to build slogan's? Re-read any of your notes or material. Highlight phrases that contain high energy. Do you lead teleclasses, like I do? Ask participants at the end of each call for two or three words of what they are taking away. Whatever they provide was memorable for them. Hear it multiple times, those are sure slogans. This also applies to pilot programs you might give. Ask for feedback, they are usually built in slogans.

Ask, "What do I want people to remember about [me][my company]?" KISS it -- keep it simple and short. That is possibly a slogan.

Next, ask, "What do I want them to do?" This is another type of slogan. Yellow pages had a great one for years, "Let your fingers do the walking."

Another way to create a slogan is to take two phrases that have parallel construction and place them together with a comma. Ex: Prizefighter Ali, "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee."

Rhyme helps create memorable. Read poetry for triggers or language that influences or inspires.

Ask friends for help. Make it a game at a meal event. Ask clients too on feedback as to what makes you memorable to them. They always keep it short.

Be playful when creating slogans. Keep take of them too in your business journal or in a slogan file on your computer. Add and use them frequently. Encourage others to do the same. Success attracts success. Share it and it will, "Always attract back everything you need."

Catherine Franz is a Marketing & Writing Coach, niches, product development, Internet marketing, nonfiction writing and training. Additional Articles: http://www.abundancecenter.com blog: http://abundance.blogs.com

[tags]Creating slogans, life slogans, career slogans, businessslogans, examples, how-to, marketing, sales,[/tags]

What's Stopping You From Getting Your Next, Good Job

This question comes up often when I'm working with someone to help them move forward in finding their next job.

What is it that compels people to stay "stuck"?

1. I think it is often inertia. It's impossible to move forward, if you don't know what you want.

2. Knowing what you want is half the battle of leaving inertia behind, but how to know what one wants, really?

3. Defining oneself can be done by writing an autobiography of accomplish- ments, taking assessments & talking to oneself.

4. Self-esteem is part of the puzzle about moving forward. Assessments should help in that direction.

5. It doesn't matter how much intro- spection is done, action is a great motivator. Action, even when it's mis-directed is better than no action.

6. Getting over stuckness can often be overcome by getting support from a guide, friend or professional. It all adds up to movement for one's sake.

About The Author

Marilyn J. Tellez, M.A.
Certified Job & Career Transition Coach
(509) 469-3514
MJT Consulting
302 Park Avenue
Yakima, WA 98902
doitnow@nwinfo.net www.doitnowcareers.info

[tags]career,jobs,business,skills,change,self improvement,positive attitude,interviews[/tags]

Peanut Butter And Jelly, Yin And Yang, Golf And Business

This successful pairing of work and sport is likely one of the draws for people who enjoy golf. More than one salesman or lawyer has taken up the sport simply so he or she doesn't get left out of important business discussions.

Experts say that while the golf course is in excellent place to do business, there are certain rules to follow. These are unwritten rules, to be sure, but if you inadvertently violate one of them, your golfing partners will notice.

First, remember why you're there. Don't think of the business golf outing as an opportunity to make a deal, think of it as an opportunity to make contacts that might make you a deal. Golf is an excellent way to make contacts when you compare it to a staid business lunch where there might be uncomfortable silences. You can take a swing, step back, and have a chat. And repeat. Making contacts never looked so easy.

Second, make good pairings. If you're trying to cozy up to a new client, pair that person with the person from your firm who would be facilitating a deal. Bring along a current and happy client, and maybe even a longtime client who you've established good rapport with. This confluence of ideas and expertise is sure to benefit these new connections.

Third, use your observation skills to everyone's advantage. Let the client or senior person take the lead. If they seem to not want to talk business very much, resist the urge to bring the conversation around to business again. If it seems they are quite focused on getting some business done, then by all means follow that lead.

Finally, remember golf is just a game. If you are someone normally prone to on-the-course frustrations, this is the time to let the sleeping beast lie. Save the temper tantrums for a game with friends, not the game with your boss or important clients. Similarly, if you notice the business guest getting frustrated and angry at his or her game, taper off the business conversation and take a more casual approach. Trying to conduct a deal with a frustrated golfer could be career suicide.

Richard Myers is a keen golfer and his web site http://www.thinkandreachpar.com and http://www.golfforleftys.com contains many free tips, great golfing advice and training videos/DVDs to help you to improve your swing and lower your score.

[tags]salesman,close,deal,negotiation,business,network,golf,career,client,entertainment[/tags]

How Important Is It To Stand Apart From Others In An Interview And How Difficult Is It

Any professionally trained interviewer can attest these questions are the most asked by people involved with job-hunting. How important is it? Absolutely vital! … How difficult is it? Not hard at all.

I can demonstrate the importance with a true story from my book 'The Art of the Interview'. [*Now on CD-ROM]

In the early 1980s I interviewed a young man who, in our meeting, began to quote information pertaining to the company he was applying. He cited the previous year's corporate gross revenue figures, the number of employees' country wide, projected new product launches and other related information. Needless to say, I was impressed. He got the job.

In retrospect, although I tried to be unbiased, when comparing him to the other candidates I interviewed, his knowledge of the company [The Company I worked for and Loved] colored, in his favor, the whole interview. My impression was he had spent much time researching the organization which showed considerable interest and effort on his part. Not one of his competitors had done so.

Months later, I asked him where he'd done his research to find so much about the company. He smiled and said, "Remember our meeting was scheduled for 2: PM that day you were running 15-minutes behind?" I nodded affirmatively. "Well, as I sat in the reception area waiting for you, I noticed, among the magazines on the coffee table, a Corporate year-end report in which, among other things, contained the company's complete history. Fifteen minutes gave me plenty of time to 'research' the company." [And then he grinned]

This story is true although the important lesson here is; he did something so simple, that in the end, made such a huge difference. He beat out twenty other candidates - many of whom had more impressive credentials than he. The fact remains, when the moment counted, and with little effort, "He was Impressive!"

You may think me a little unyielding as to the importance of this point. The fact remains, 'Little Things' can make 'All the Difference'. For other examples of this we need only look at Olympic athletes.

The runner that crosses the finish line 1/100th of a second faster than the next, wins Gold. A Gold Medal can mean the difference of millions of dollars in future endorsements.

One might ask; Is this Gold Medal winner ten times faster or better than the second runner? No, he is only 1/100th of a second faster – the length of a pencil. Decades of training and practice to become a Gold Medal winner, a celebrity and a multi-millionaire all came down to 7-inches – When It Counted!

For us, the other important factor to remember is that when interviewing for a new job, there is no Silver Medal, second place, so to speak. We either get the job or we don't.

The Bottom Line:

Although it's easy to see the task of standing apart in an interview, a little daunting. It is, nevertheless, absolutely integral to anyone's success in today's Unique Value-Add driven marketplace whether it's products, services - especially when it relates to us. In the end, we are all trying to make a sale. Potential employers must buy-off on the value and uniqueness of us.

The good news? Standing out in a 'Huge' way is rarely necessary and often we find, standing out a 'Little' - not all that difficult.

Good Job Hunting!

About The Author

Paul Shearstone aka The 'Pragmatic Persuasionist' is one of North America's foremost experts on Sales and Persuasion. An International Keynote Speaker, Author, Writer, Motivation, Corporate Ethics, / Time & Stress Management, Recruiting Specialist, Paul enlightens and challenges audiences as he informs, motivates and entertains. To comment on this article or to book the Pragmatic Persuasionist for your next successful event we invite to contact Paul Shearstone directly @ 416-728-5556 or www.success150.com or paul@success150.com

For more detailed information on Interviewing Skills, visit [www.success150.com]. On the 'Speaker Profile' page, there is a hot-link to "The Art of the Interview" There you can order [$5 Admin-Fee] an E-Book that guarantees better interviewing results. It details the specific types of questions trained interviewers will ask and the reasons why they ask them. The do's and don'ts of a good résumé's as well as ways to better prepare mentally for an interview are also there in a comprehensive easy to read format.

*Just Released: The Art of the Interview on CD ROM [Narrated by Paul Shearstone] Please send $19.95 usd + $5 S&H to:

Paul Shearstone
c/o Success 150 Group Inc
7305 Woodbine Ave, Suite 458
Markham Ontario Canada
L3R 3V7
paul@success150.com

[tags]career,jobs,business,skills,change,self improvement,positive attitude,,interviews[/tags]

Top Ten Questions To Ask Yourself When Selecting Your Target Market

Target Market is defined as the group to which you aim your marketing efforts. The more clearly you define and understand your market, the better you can market directly to that group. Talk their language, answer their problems, and show that your really "get" them and they are more likely to do business with you. Just because you market to one group however doesn't mean you have to turn away business from another group. Your product or service may be appropriate for many groups but your marketing will be more effective if you market directly to one at a time.

1. What are the demographics of my market? What are the measurable statistics that I know about my market such as age, income or occupation?

2. What are the psychographics of my market? What are the lifestyle preferences of my market? Are they all music lovers, golfers, or condo owners?

3. Is this a group I enjoy working with and/or find fascinating? If I have to spend a lot of time with this group will I be bored or repelled by it?

4. What kind of connection do I have to this market so I know it well? Am I part of the market myself or have I been part of it in the past? Do I have family and friends that are part of it?

5. What are the professional organizations, clubs, or activities that my target market frequents? I want to be able to find my market and talk to them directly. Do I know where to go?

6. What newspapers, magazines or websites does my market enjoy? If I want to stay in touch with the market ongoing then I need to know what this group is reading.

7. Do I understand the problems that my market faces? Will my product or service solve a problem for them?

8. Do I know the language that this market uses? Knowing the vocabulary of my market gives me more credibility.

9. Do I know what attracts this group? How do I let this group know about my product or service? What will get their attention?

10. Do I know who influences this group? Who are the people respected by this group? What are they advocating and can I align my product or service in some way with them?

About Alvah Parker

Alvah Parker is a Business and Career Coach as well as publisher of Parker's Points, an email tip list and Road to Success, an ezine. To subscribe send an email to join-roadtosuccess@go.netatlantic.com.

Parker's Value Program© enables clients to find a way to work that is more fulfilling and profitable. She is both a Practice Advisor and Coach to attorneys, managers, business owners, sole practioners, and people in transition. Alvah is found on the web at http://www.asparker.com. She may also be reached at 781-598-0388

[tags]Attorney,client development,firm,lawyers,career,marketing action,business,coach,Alvah Parker,advisor[/tags]

Artist Mangers And Booking Agents

As a former talent booking agent with the William Morris Agency, I am always amazed at either the scope and talent of an artist's business team or the why and how an artist exists within the mediocre framework which they are operating from. And believe me, I've seen plenty of both. It would seem that many managers fall into these positions, like in many fields, not out of genuine talent or know-how, but by mere presence alone – They were friends of the artist or a brother to one of the members of the act and so forth. If a manager, important at every turn of an artist's career, is so important, than what exactly is it that makes up a good manager or booking agent?

Most everyone thinks of contacts. No doubt that contacts are important in this business. The thinking is – "Just as long as they act like they know what they are doing and talk a big game dropping some names along the way," than they must "know" what they are doing and they can get the job done – Or can they?

Many a talented and well-known manager today got into the field, yes, because they knew an individual in the act, but the big difference in their particular operating style, is that they had drive and authenticity and still do today. They got the job done, and still do, because they were approachable, authentic, and had the vision to see the end result. Many a manager today just drools all over the potential end result without the authenticity and approachability that is needed to maintain crucial and vital career lifelines along the way. Artist career pathways are much like a product off the grocery store shelves – There's a product life expectancy, and the marketing exec's and everyone else know this. Same in the music industry with a few exceptions as there are in any business.

While we're addressing artist management, have you ever asked yourself the question – "What makes up a good artist manager? or Who can truly get the job done for me?" Another way to say it is, "I want a record deal with some industry success and who can take me there?" While obviously not guaranteed, and any authentic and honest manager will tell you this, that not every deserving and incredibly talented individual or act makes it – And we're not talking to the top, but even to the small break or single CD release. This hit or miss approach has frustrated many a well-intentioned artist along the way. Let's take a closer look at what is helpful and what might give you some clues to what a potential manager looks like and what he or she can and should be doing to get the job done.

As already mentioned, some immediate traits that you should recognize when talking with potential artist managers are authentic, honest, approachable, creative, thinking of your absolute best and not their interests, qualities. And these qualities ought to exude from who they are and not a put-on, or faked front. Great managers never promise, but deliver. Don't over-hype, but convey your act in such a way that labels, booking agents and others in the industry just "Have to be involved in the project." The bearer of the news commands respect and a listening too, because they are at a minimum seen as an individual with scruples, morals and with solid belief in the act. Great managers deliver on what they perceive as genuine and alleged talent and not a musical whim or fleeting musical industry fad. So if you are to find a great manager you to will have to be honest, approachable, think from their perspective of how difficult their job is and appreciate that, and deliver your artist pitch with a non "artsy fartsy" mentality. You'd be surprised at how many "What's up dude" artists are out there. You want a professional manager than you'd better come across as a professional and well-intentioned act.

Let's talk a moment about booking agents and the qualities that you will be looking for. I have written an article, The Talent Agent Inside, that you might find interesting and can be found at www.reelmusician.com/reelmusician_026.htm. While that article addresses your own ability to book your act and take up your cause, I will finish the remainder of this article on finding and securing the "right" booking agent for representation. The talent agent like the artist manager is not always easy to spot or find. Many a booking agent will sell you a bag of goods on what they can do and then really never get around to doing it. Your artist manager, if you have one, will be working on this as well, but you should be talking, making phone calls, and emailing potential agents and individuals who can steer you in the right direction.

In short, you need to find an agent who really believes in your act, who can either book you into appropriate venues as a solo act, or book you as an opening act for headliners. Yes, I'm sure you already knew that, but let's go a step further. Finding these agents is not an easy task. As an agent do you really want to spend your time, your dollar on the phone and mailing out press kits on no-name acts with little in return? You look at all of the acts out there who want to be booked, but don't want to help out with any costs associated with the basic costs of doing business as a "baby act." It's just expected that, especially with the smaller booking agencies, that the agencies will absorb the costs. That being the case, agents and mangers have to deeply protect who they represent and who they pump valuable time and resources into – Somewhere along the way there has to be something or someone who pays the phone, postage, etc.

Try to look at your securing an agent from that perspective and your insight will greatly increase along with your ability to secure an agent. Volumes more could be written on this subject, but for the sake of time, and from the reality that you've got more to start working with, with just the last paragraph alone to get you moving, that we will leave it here and pick up in a future article. Just be aware of not only the "big" talkers in the industry, but the individuals who are working hard, but need something to work with as well. Understanding their issues and frustrations will go a long ways in your ability to secure a manger or booking agent. A good talent agent is worth their weight in gold. Before you set off looking for an agent, put yourself in their shoes and ask yourself, how am I going to make money with this act? How much of my time and energy is going to be purged with little to no financial results? Figuring out an angle whereby you can help the agent out will not only tell them that you care, but that you're on the ball and that you won't have your hand out the entire time. You do your part and in time someone will come along and take the necessary risk on your talent.

Tom Gauger is a former talent booking agent with the William Morris Agency. This author may be contacted at 615-300-5030 or tgauger@reelmusician.com. As a singer Mr Gauger can be heard on Fox TV, UPN TV Station ID's, O'Charley's and many others. Mr Gauger is also a writer on the song Who To Love slotted for upcoming telecast on the Emmy award winning soap The Guiding Light. Artists Managers and Booking Agents – copyright 2006 by Tom Gauger.

[tags]artist managers, booking agents, A&R, singing, sing, singers, vocal, vocal careers, bands, artists[/tags]

Rock And Rubber Mallets

Born out of a religious devotion to one of the greatest exponents of all that was ever Metal; Metallica, Alien Ant Farm housed a quartet of cheeky, wholesome Californian nerds. Perhaps, four of the most unpredictable and unimaginable rock stars ever to grace the U.S, these ordinary looking kids off the block blazed into teenage vulnerability around 1996.

In strange and extreme arrogance, their first album was titled 'Greatest Hits,' released in the U.S in November 1999. In America, it managed to con the teens into submissiveness and an award was promptly handed out to the band the same year at the L.A Music Awards. The Brits, on the other hand, were having none of that and the LP failed to create even the slightest dent over here. After all, we invented Metal. We already knew what it was like to feel our ear drums bleed - we had Ozzy…

Thunderous, thrashy and somewhat Alice In Chains tinted, the band, visually, can only be described as The Beastie Boys meets the Myth busters, or perhaps even Adam Sandlers lost cousins, yet there is something disturbingly appealing about these guys with their shaved heads and Scooby Doo tee shirts. They reflect a certain mood within all teenagers, but perhaps mostly towards kids in the U.S. Sniggering still at their farts and whistling at girls, it is not difficult to imagine that these fellas, loaded and famous as they are, still ring old ladies door bells in the middle of the night and run away laughing.

Their contribution to the rock industry is merely down to taste. If you like your rock heavy on the bass and minus any real noticeable guitar riffs yet you prefer the lead vocal to actually sing in key, then AAF is certainly the band for you. If you ever become fortunate to see them live, then please don't be put off by the fact that they are not famous for putting on a show. The all-American named Dryden Mitchell does nothing to promote a form of eye candy. His hunched over stance with mouth busy tonguing the microphone is almost an imitation of Grindcore Gods, Napalm Death. Despite their visual effect and their ability to perform good, and surprisingly tuneful Metal music, they have, unlike a lot of their hero's, stayed far away from making any social comment. Choosing, I believe, to distance themselves from anything too political and topical, they have, in previous years, met only criticism from the media on how they were a bad influence on the youngsters of the Nineties generation. Although the critics were harsh, it was how the band unitedly stood their ground with great maturity that was perhaps, more shocking.

AAF gave us another shock in September of 2001 by releasing their own take on Michael Jackson's 'Smooth Criminal.' This shaky, club classic dance number filled with all the glitz and styled glamour that was Jackson in his element, was probably one of the very last pieces of cover that any rock band would ever dare to take on, let alone endanger their already growing respect from other long haired rock giants already masterful. This daring take on such a record was tarnished with all the right amount of bass, heavy drums and chain saw styled guitars that was needed and leapt, peculiarly to number three in the singles charts in the U.K. The British kids were buying it at last. As a 'make sure' marketing ploy, the song was released again in February 2002 as the B side to the single, 'Movies,' which, again had enjoyed such huge success that it was released twice and instead of it's humble number 55, it sat readily at number five the second time around.

For a group of four young lads, all born between 1971 and 1977, it is surprising that in the years of Alien Ant Farm being around, they have only managed to release five singles. Four of which were two songs released twice, and only two chart positioning albums to 2003. At a glance, one could argue that they are the laziest rock band in existence, failing to produce a decent single and record a fairly passable album, but a closer look shows us that these musicians (and isn't it a blessing from God that we see a band that can actually play instruments? This is the only reason why I think Ben should win the X Factor…) we can see that apart from the obvious single, these fellas have written everything. Like their counterparts of today and the giant Metal bands of the past, they are proud to say that they have not once leaned on others for their musical contribution to teenage album collections. They are humorous, thoughtful and, most of the time, polite. They are melodic, play in time and are good to their mothers. In my book, they posses all the makings of a fairly decent heavy rock band.

Their music can't always be described as custom built heavy metal. In fact, many of you out their will be disagreeing with their title of Metal band as it is. For example, the jolliness of the backbone of 'Glow,' from the album 'TruANT,' (2003) is more Manic Street Preachers than Anthrax. Yet, 'These Days,' taken from the same album has a more grinding feel to its theme, hanging in the air with the heaviest of cobweb guitar riffs, the density of some of their work would have even Miss Havisham reaching for the duster. They had even tried their hands at deliberately mixing Spanish guitar with a darkly forcible bass line yet keeping the vocals strained and cutting. Working these layered Latin themes, this band takes on a whole knew meaning and far from the Metal legends they are supposed to be. Although they still appear to be a bunch of guys fresh out on vacation from high school, they seem friendly, alluring, shy and very attractive to English speaking teens across the world.

However geeky and freak loving, these giggling, immature youths on a Blair Witch Project trip shouldn't be regarded as what they appear to be. Frighteningly in 2001, the band came close to a major loss. Dryden Mitchell suffered a severe broken neck when the band's tour bus crashed after colliding with a big truck on route from Spain to Portugal at two o'clock one morning. After the initial shock and then being shown the devastating pictures of the remains of their twisted coach, the band took the incident as a true near death experience for all of them. Their work has since taken a more serious turn. Passing fans, probably won't notice anything different about this heavy metal band, but for Alien Ant Farm, their next album, 'TruANT,' released in August 2003, certainly lent towards a more definitive and reflective key. Though the bands style and lack of responsibility will pretty much, always shine through, it is their inner most souls that had been tarnished with the freak accident two years before. Due to extensive surgery to Mitchell following the smash, the band took time out whilst Mitchell lived for months in a halo brace around his head, holding it in place with screws and wires.

The band now take on a whole new meaning yet again, yet this time, matured, edged and introspective, we wonder where the band go from here. After the release for the long awaited 'TruANT,' they seemed to have died a death as far as the Brits are concerned. Even though it had been noted that they are one of those rare bands that genuinely appreciate their fans, nothing seems to have come from the AAF camp for quite sometime. It is a shame as I do believe that we haven't, in many ways, not seen the best of Alien Ant Farm yet…

Dryden Mitchell - vocals
Terry Corso - guitar
Tye Zamora - bass/vocals
Mike Cosgrove - drums
DreamWorks records

Album releases;

Greatest Hits - November 1999 (cd)
ANTology - March 2001 (cd)
TruANT - August 2003 (cd)

©michelle duffy 2006 Also on ciao and dooyoo (sam1942). 2006.

Michelle is a freelance writer in the South of England and owner of the websites, www.generationsounds.co.uk, nevermindthebloggers.bravehost.com and their successful sister, 'Never Mind The Bloggers' at paperback-writer29.tripod.com. She has been writing over the last year, for five major consumer websites across the world and is one of the only two music category advisors for one website in the U.K. Her websites promote young, amateur and professional bands/artists and their fan clubs whilst also reviewing them for local and world wide promotion. She has also recently launched the blogs; 'The Ramblings Of An Old Rocker,' 'Bohemian Waffle,' 'The Rhythm Rock And Blues Machine' and 'The Moped's Musings' and 'Generation Sound Suite.' She is currently working on two shops selling her music styled artwork and now sells on Ebay.

[tags]Alien,Ant,Farm,Music,Rcok,Heavy,Metal,Review,Band,Career[/tags]

Networking Is Your Approach Too Self-Centered

It's a classic mistake by networkers: their approach is focused on their own needs rather than on the needs of their contacts.

Fortunately, a popular new book by Bonnie Lowe makes it easy to solve this problem. The book, "Networkaholics Revealed! True Confessions From People Who Networked Their Way to Success (And How You Can Do the Same)," provides strategies and success stories from 49 master networkers.

Many of those strategies focus on how networkers can benefit from being selfless instead of selfish.

The goal is happier contacts, which ultimately translates into long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships.

"It's natural for people to look out for their own self interests when they start any important activity," Lowe said. "So many people focus their networking efforts on obtaining things they want (more leads, referrals, sales and business).

"But the best networkers know this is a huge mistake. While those desired outcomes are shared by all networkers, people who put others' needs before their own will reap far greater rewards."

According to Lowe, the first and most important step when striving to build a meaningful network is to consciously suspend your self interest.

Then follow these three steps:

1. Ask yourself, "How can I help them?" (instead of "How can they help me?"). Give a lot of thought to what you can offer them, such as:

Something they cannot do.

Something they will not do.

Something they do not want to do.

"If you can do any of those three things, you immediately have value," said Chip Tarver, author of First Contact Secrets. "If you have value in a stranger's eyes, he/she will think you're worth getting to know. If you don't have value, why would they care about you? Your goal should be to help others. If your only goal is to help yourself, you're not going to be much of a networker, because you'll become known as a 'taker,' not a 'giver.' Givers have the greatest networks and they typically give out of a heart of giving, not out of selfishness to enrich themselves."

Dr. Harlan Kilstein, CEO of Overnight Copy, offers this strategy: "The best thing you can do, well before you meet with people, is find out about them, their businesses, their products, etc. Give them positive feedback. Most importantly, find out what you can do for them. That's the true definition of networking."

Ken McCarthy, Founder of Amacord, Inc., said, "Never look at people as a means to an end. I know a lot of people do that and become successful that way, but they flame out as people around them realize, 'This guy is totally in it for himself; he doesn't care about me.' People figure that out eventually. But if you offer service and are truly helpful to someone, then all doors open to you."

2. Be kind.

"One of my favorite bumper stickers is 'Practice Random Acts of Kindness,'" Lowe said. "That applies perfectly to networking."

Helena Bouchez, Owner of Lenalinks Creative Technical Writing & Consulting, said, "Acts of kindness have tremendous impact and create instant rapport. People do not expect it. You become top-of-mind for the person you help. It's not a linear process. All help given comes back multiplied – but not necessarily from the person you helped! A lot of people don't understand this and get very fixated on 'score keeping' and extracting something from the person they gave something to. That's not how it works. Generosity creates a positive vibe, and is a magnet for good situations."

3. Be patient.

Some benefits of your generosity will be immediate, but not all.

David Garfinkel, Founder of World Copywriting Institute, suggests, "Take a long-term view about 'getting yours.' Things can happen in a flash, but often you'll help someone and years later, just when you need it, people in your network will be there for you in ways you never could have anticipated."

In Summary

"All business is ultimately about people and relationships," said Lowe. "We all feel better doing business with people we like. When you are generous to others and genuinely care about helping them, they will naturally like you and want to help you in turn."

Giving first also invokes the universal law of reciprocity. In other words, if you do something for someone else, that person feels obliged to return the favor and do something for you.

The end result of all this generosity? Long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships!

Bonnie Lowe is author of the popular book, "Networkaholics Revealed! True Confessions From People Who Networked Their Way to Success (And How You Can Do the Same)." For more information about this helpful networking resource, go to http://www.Networkaholics-Revealed.com

[tags]networking,career networking,networking strategies,business networking,building relationships[/tags]

Change Your Career, Change Your Life!

Lots of times I see and talk to people who are tired, bored and burnt out of their current jobs. I'm not sure what causes this dis- satisfaction. One reason, though, that I've thought about is that the work they are doing is not their life passion. Or, if it was, something in the person has changed or the passion needs to be re-kindled.

One of the best ways to either find a dead or to re-kindle a work passion is to celebrate all of one's accomplishments in a lifetime. Even the young adult has many tasks that have been done, which encourage passion in work. It's both hard and easy to go over one's accomplishments throughout a life- time.

Let's start with a common achievement. That of learning to ride a bicycle. There has to be coordination between, head, hands, legs and arms. Body balance is necessary. All at once, almost, the person can ride a bicycle! Whew!

If that is an accomplishment in your life, write it down. List as many from fun spots in your life along with the more serious ones.

It's truly amazing to see people come to life with new goals, new attitudes, and new possibilities, when they see and know their potential. Potential for the future, from the past.

About The Author

c, 2004

Permission is granted to reprint, not for commercial use

Marilyn J. Tellez, M.A.
Certified Job & Career Transition Coach
Email: doitnow@nwinfo.net
Web: www.doitnowcareers.info

[tags]career,jobs,business,skills,change,self improvement,positive attitude,,interviews[/tags]

How To Network Effectively

Networking is the single most effective way to job hunt and to increase business opportunities. Without a circle of high quality professional acquaintances, you will be severely disadvantaged throughout your career. However, building this circle requires planning and you have to continually work at it. How do you get started? Most importantly, how do you make sure you aren't turning people off or damaging your reputation? Read on to learn the fundamentals of effective networking - what TO do and what NOT to do.

How to Start

- There's really no single formula. However, I recommend that you start with a specific goal and timeframe. For example, decide to meet 3 new people in your field who work both in your company and in other firms over the next 6 months. Once you "program" that goal into your brain, you'll be amazed at the number of opportunities that come your way. Sign up for seminars, attend presentations, take a class, or ask a friend to introduce you to someone. Just get going. And don't worry about imposing – people are generally very nice and like to help each other out.

How to Get People Interested in You

- Who are you interested in networking with? Probably people who are cheerful, hard-working, well put together and well thought of, right? Well, then you need to work on being that kind of person yourself. You have to demonstrate that you are worth building a relationship with.

If you're meeting someone for the first time, let them do most of the talking. People love to talk about themselves. Ask them about their interests, profession…whatever. First, you'll learn pretty quickly if this person is someone you want to keep in touch with. Second, if you do ask them for their business card or contact information, they will gladly give it to you because they now look upon you very favorably as being "a good listener". Make sure you ask for permission to contact them in the future. Don't assume that you can. Just say something like "I'm glad we met. May I keep in touch with you?" If you've used the active listening approach I described, they always say "Yes" or "Of course".

If someone isn't interested in networking with you, just back off. Don't bug them or try to change his or her mind. Be objective about why this is the case and try to determine if there is something about yourself that needs improvement. If they never come around, don't worry about it. The world is a big place and there are plenty of great people out there.

Start Off Conservatively

- Wait for at least 24-48 hours to pass before getting in touch with someone after you meet them. Otherwise, they might get the impression that you're needy or over-eager. Don't ask for huge favors the very first time you communicate with someone, either. Networking is a give-and-take process, not a one-time event. People don't "owe" you anything just because you were introduced or exchanged business cards.

Mind Your Manners

- What ever happened to "Please" and "Thank you"? People of all ages are violating this basic rule and it's appalling. Use an appropriate level of formality and respectful tone. Over time you can become more relaxed but never, ever lose basic courtesy. If you're sending an email, watch your grammar and spell check it before sending. If you're leaving a voicemail, write it out first and practice saying it a few times. That way, it will be delivered it smoothly and naturally. Your verbal and written communication reflects who you are.

Demonstrate Respect for Process and Position

- Don't ask people to go around their company's internal processes or to leap over organizational levels for you. This puts them on the spot. Instead, ask them to explain what their company's process is and who they recommend that you contact. Always, always ask for permission to use their name before doing so. This approach shows that you are a responsible and trustworthy person. And, you will ultimately get in touch with the right individual(s) through a series of personal internal referrals Trust me – this works.

Set Up a Schedule

- A preset schedule will ensure that you keep in regular contact with your networking circle. 2-3 times a year is a good guideline, unless you are working with someone on a specific project or request. Make it a convenient time for them – breakfast, coffee, lunch, or after work. Keep it to 30 minutes. If the other person wants to make it longer, let them suggest it, not you.

Keep the Conversations Productive

- Be completely professional and upbeat in your networking activities. Networking is not a vehicle for you to whine, complain, or badmouth. It's an opportunity for you to learn from others and to help them out as well. Anybody who is a quality individual for you to know will not be interested in listening to garbage. In networking circles, word travels fast about which people to avoid. Don't get on that list.

Be a Giver, Not a Taker

- Keep track of how many times you ask for favors. You should be giving and taking in equal measure. End each conversation with "Thanks for your time. Please tell me how I can help you." Even if the other person says "Oh, don't worry about it." or "I don't really need anything right now." - they will always remember you as being a very unselfish and thoughtful person. I cannot stress enough how much networking is about helping others. Again, word travels fast about which people just take, take, take and never do anything for anyone else. Don't get on that list, either.

Be on Your Best Behavior at all Times

- Not everyone is an outgoing extrovert. And we all have bad days. But the world is a small place and people have long memories. You never know who you will run into and whose assistance you will need, even if it's years and years from now. You can never go wrong by being kind and respectful to everyone all the time.

You Must Sow Before You Reap

- Start networking NOW. Don't wait until you need something. There is nothing more annoying than getting a phone call from someone you just met or someone who hasn't been in touch for years (or worse yet, didn't return your calls when you contacted them) asking for a big favor.

If you truly don't need anyone or anything right now, then reach out to others and help them. And be sincere about it. Develop the reputation for being someone who helps others. Not only is it the right thing to do, but by doing so, you will build up a "bank" of goodwill that you can easily tap into when you really need it. Believe me, that day will come and when it does, you'll be amazed at the outpouring of assistance you'll get.

Protect Your Good Name and Reputation

- Don't feel obligated to let just anyone into your personal network. Be especially careful if you have any doubts about how a person's behavior will reflect upon you, even if you've known this person since childhood or if she is your second cousin. It can take someone less than 5 minutes to ruin the good reputation you've spent years and years building.

Don't blow the person off. Return the phone call and listen to the request with respect. Then simply say "I wish I could help you out. Unfortunately, I'm not in a position right now to be of assistance. If things change, I'll certainly get in touch with you." Leave it at that.

Dee Piziak is a manager for a Fortune 500 company and a university instructor. Her consulting firm, Acadia Communications, specializes in professional coaching, career development, and resume writing. Visit her website at http://www.acadiacommunications.com

[tags]networking,career, careers,resume,resumes,coaching[/tags]

Unemployment The First 48 Hours

In homicide parlance, the first 48 hours of an investigation are crucial. If something positive is to be found, or the case resolved, it is likely that it will happen before 48 hours have elapsed. The longer the duration before a suspect is identified, the less likely a positive resolution becomes.

No one would suggest that you are most likely to obtain a suitable position within the first 2 days after layoff nor that your chances diminish after that time.

However, there are many aspects of unemployment and job search that need to be addressed as quickly as possible in order to develop a situation optimally organized for your eventual success.

1. Review your finances.

Regardless of your confidence or optimism about swiftly obtaining an alternate position, batten your financial hatches against future storms. It is far more advantageous to prepare and not need it than to wait so long that your options become narrowed and your credit jeopardized.

Look at your monthly expenditures and identify where deferral (interest only) payments may be appropriate. This includes mortgage payments, auto loans, student loans, revolving credit accounts/cards, and any bank or personal loans. If you pay rent, reductions for a short period may not be available but a frank discussion of your situation with your landlord or manager can set the stage for more flexibility in case your shortage of funds later becomes acute.

Scrutinize your budget and see which items can be eliminated or which purchases delayed. If you are able to cut your regular payments through deferments, you may feel temporarily flush as your expenses have been lowered but the financial pressures of unemployment have not yet really kicked in. Be cautious. Tough financial times may be around the corner and the costs associated with job search can be substantially higher than you may have calculated.

2. Take a personal inventory.

Before you sit down to write your resume (or have it professionally prepared), you need to have all of your skills, experiences, strengths, and achievements at your fingertips. Think about all of the different tasks you have done at work over the past 5 to 10 years. Give yourself plenty of time and jot things down as you remember them. Over a period of a couple of days, you'll be amazed at how many projects and special assignments you will recall that had been all but forgotten.

Once you have all the raw data on paper, read through the Sunday Classified Ads of a major metropolitan newspaper. As you read them, highlight words and phrases that are in demand: multi-tasking, computer literacy, interpersonal skills, team player, ability to think outside the box, quality driven, attention to detail, ability to motivate.

Once you have completed this, you can start to pull your skills into a resume, using the language that employers demand. You probably won't list every experience or achievement you've had, but select key terms to emphasize. The information you leave out of your resume will not be lost as it will prove invaluable at an interview when you have the opportunity to provide more detail and more specifics.

When you have your resume drafted, have a friend or family member review it for errors. If possible, do a mock interview. You may find that someone else interprets what you have written in a totally different way than you intended. Adjust and rewrite until the descriptions are clear and convey your assets accurately and unequivocally.

3. Map out your campaign.

Any successful venture requires some planning and forethought. You may pride yourself on your spontaneity and your ability to just "dive in" but job searches are becoming longer and more frustrating than ever and you need to pace yourself to conserve energy, motivation, and enthusiasm.

Start with establishing some kind of immediate routine. It doesn't have to be a stringent undertaking although if you are a very structured individual you can make it as detailed as you like.

At least make a schedule of when you will be pursuing classified ads, the days you may visit agencies or job fairs, the evenings or early mornings when you will check out all appropriate job hotlines. Allow plenty of time for calling your contacts and build in time for both yourself and your family life.

Decide what time to get up and follow the early morning routine that was your custom when working. You may think it's stupid to shower, shave, brush your teeth, put on makeup, and dress when your plans for the day call for strictly telephone work.

Believe me, you sound different and project yourself better when you are in a business versus a casual mode. You will feel more motivated to make your calls and will feel that you are still connected to the world of work rather than the disconnect of sitting in a scruffy robe and bare feet.

Should one of your calls sound promising, you can heighten the receptivity of any employer by suggesting that you "come down right now." An employer views that as an indication of your enthusiasm, availability, and willingness to work at the drop of a hat. Stating that it will take you a couple of hours to get ready, or suggesting that the next day might be best, irrevocably stamps you as someone who has other priorities than finding immediate work.

4. Keep those cards and letters coming.

In job search, as we all know, the name of the game is contact, contact, contact. Reaching out to everyone you know or meet has been shown, over and over again, to be the key to successfully finding employment. Many larger companies pay employees a bonus for referring a new employee. Why? They know that the most satisfactory hires are made when a current competent employee vouches for someone. The interview becomes less confrontational because there is a less of a need to dig for hidden weakness or ferret out closet skeletons.

For your business contacts, former co-workers, friends, and family, make your calls in the routine discussed in #3. At the same time, be prepared to network anywhere - at the market, at a gas station, at the barber or beauty shop, at a social or sporting event. Always have a supply of your personal business cards with you (250 free cards are offered on several Internet sites) and always have a notepad and pen handy to jot down any leads or suggestions you hear.

While you don't have to wear a suit at a casual event, plan on always being neat, clean, and well-groomed wherever you go - you never know when that star contact will show up.

If you drink or gamble or take drugs, such groups as A.A., G.A., or N.A. can be wonderfully fertile grounds for job leads (but you may need to visit several groups before you find the right fit). More than one perfect position has been found on the golf links, in a bowling alley, or at a Little League game. Keep your eyes and ears open and don't be afraid to broach the subject of your "between jobs" status. If no one knows, no one can help.

Virginia Bola operated a rehabilitation company for 20 years, developing innovative job search techniques for disabled workers, while serving as a Vocational Expert in Administrative, Civil and Workers' Compensation Courts. Author of an interactive and supportive workbook, The Wolf at the Door: An Unemployment Survival Manual, and a monthly ezine, The Worker's Edge, she can be reached at www.unemploymentblues.com

[tags]unemployment,careers,job search,interviewing,job hunt,survival[/tags]