Sunday, November 23, 2008

Career & Job Searching in the 21st Century

Let's be honest... no matter how dissatisfied we might be with our current career path, losing a job through lay offs, downsizing or firing is a painful experience, not just financially, but emotionally. But it is also an opportunity to change our lives for the better. It is an opportunity to look inward, take account of our short-comings, as well our strengths, and to take our career to the next level.

Ask yourself where you want to be in five years. Perhaps your previous job was not the best place to be to help get you there. Look honestly at your skillsets and abilities. Don't be afraid to consider a brand new career path that may utilize these skills in a far more productive manner, that will bring you not only financial rewards, but personal fulfillment as well.

These principals apply even if you are currently employed. Ask yourself if you really see yourself in your current position two to five years from now. Are you really happy to go to work each day? Are you realizing your full potential? Is your job really secure? If the answer to any of these questions is "No", perhaps it is time to take a proactive stance, polish up your resume, search the job listings and take control of your career.

There are numerous tools available on the Internet to help you in your career search. Each of the major job boards... Monster, CareerBuilder, TheLadders and CollegeGrad.com, offer excellent advice ranging from career guidance to resume writing.

Once you've decided upon a career path, the next step is to perfect your resume. www.ResumeBear.com offers an online, step-by-step cover letter and resume builder wizard that will help you create a very professional-looking resume. ResumeBear has also developed a very unique resume delivery system that allows you to apply for a position without attachments, with an online resume that is guaranteed to bypass spam filters and reach the decision maker or HR department. You are also able to track your resume online and be notified if and when your resume was opened, how long it was read and by whom.

At the end of the day, your career is in your hands. Make the most of it.