St. Louis, Mo., Tops 10 Toughest Cities to Find a Job - Careers Articles

If you're living in St. Louis, Mo., Detroit or Miami, you might want to consider moving to Washington, D.C., San Jose, Calif., or, believe it or not, New York City. That's because the first cities mentioned have the fewest job openings per unemployed worker, and the latter have the most, according to research done by Juju.com, a leading job search engine.

While there is only one advertised job available for every 12.02 unemployed workers in St. Louis, there is a job for every 1.28 employment seekers in Washington, D.C.. Those are pretty good odds, and it's not an extreme weather or cost-of-living change, if you're willing to live in the suburbs. You might want to start thinking of relatives and former classmates in the D.C. area who could put you up while you search, or at least do some research for you. If you're unemployed in St. Louis or Detroit, it could be time to start reaching out.

These startling numbers were taken from Juju's U.S. States Index, which measures the difficulty of finding employment in each state around the country. It was calculated by dividing the number of unemployed workers in each state, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), by the number of jobs in Juju's comprehensive index of millions of online jobs in the United States, which is compiled and updated continuously from thousands of employer career portals, recruiter websites, and job boards all over the Internet.

California's job woes just seem to get worse and worse. It has three cities (Riverside, Los Angeles and Sacramento) on the list of 10 Toughest Places to Find a Job. However, it does have one city -- San Jose -- on the list of 10 Easiest Places to Find a Job. No other states have multiple cities on either list.

10 Toughest Cities to Find a Job

So here are the 10 Toughest Cities to Find a Job, along with the number of people looking per every advertised job opening:

1. St. Louis, Mo. (12.02)

Detroit, Mich. (11.81)

Miami, Fla. (9.73)

Las Vegas, Nev. (9.14)

Riverside, Calif. (8.58)

Los Angeles, Calif. (7.54)

Sacramento, Calif. (6.81)

Portland, Ore. (6.06)

Memphis, Tenn. (5.90)

Providence, R.I. (5.69)

10 Easiest Cities to Find a Job

Looking on the brighter side, you could try finding work in one of the 10 Easiest Cities to Find a Job:

1. Washington, D.C. (1.28)

San Jose, Calif. (1.64)

New York, N.Y. (1.76)

Baltimore, Md. (1.76)

Hartford, Conn. (2.27)

Oklahoma City, Okla. (2.46)

Boston, Mass. (2.75)

Salt Lake City, Utah (2.80)

San Antonio, Texas (2.84)

Denver, Colo. (2.85)

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Posted via email from AndyWergedal

TheWiseJobSearch: Finding your targets with LinkedIn

Anyone who’s been using LinkedIn for their job search for a while understands the great value it can be. It’s tremendous for creating a profile in order to be found, for finding contacts at companies you are pursuing, and for preparing for an interview by learning about your interviewer and others at the organization.

However, people often miss another way LinkedIn can be used to help them greatly in pursuing their job search with a more laser-like focus… finding and defining your target companies and positions!

In a job search, many people have difficulty articulating the type of position they are looking for, a title, or specific companies they are interested in pursuing.  LinkedIn can be a terrific resource for researching roles and finding companies to pursue that may have those types of roles.

Here are some tips that may help…

Search keywords to find job titles! If you are looking for positions that might utilize skills you have, however, aren’t sure of all the roles out there that might use those skills… use the “Advanced Search” function of LinkedIn. In order to find positions where those skills are used, do a keyword search of those skills. Start broad and narrow your search if your results are overwhelming. Start without narrowing your location in order to get a broad swath of results. The people that come up in your search are people with skills listed that you search. Browse through those results to see the job titles and types of roles those people do. Read how they describe their jobs to see which ones look appropriate, realistic, and interesting to you. That helps you begin to define the types of positions you would like to target.

Search titles to find companies! Once you’ve narrowed the titles of positions you are pursuing, you can find companies that have employees with those titles. Simply do a search, within your geographic area, or more broadly of those titles. The people that come up each currently work, or previously worked at companies that hire those backgrounds. You will likely find large companies, small and mid-size companies, companies that are well known, and companies you’ve likely never heard of. That helps you begin to define your target list of companies you may like to pursue.

Use combinations to narrow your search. If you are pursuing a broadly used title (i.e. Business Analyst), you will likely need to narrow your results by using combinations of keywords of skills, title, and location. Even then, depending on the number of connections you have, you may get hundreds or thousands of results. However, by scrolling through quickly, you should be able to find the relevant information you are looking for.

Use the contact names you find as well. The results you find will help you define the target jobs, titles, and companies you would like to pursue, and will also provide you potential contact names at those companies! Each of the people you find could be a good contact at their organization, and may be able to point you to the best contact for you to present your resume or “Elevator Speech”. You can find multiple ways to connect to them. You can find some help by reading “I got a contact name… how do I reach them?”

Pursuing specific companies whether they have a position open or not is often the best way to gain a new job rather than competing with the hoards that are all responding to job postings and ads. You can gain more insight and help to do it well here and here.

Defining your target positions and companies well, will help you become far more successful in your search. LinkedIn is an ideal tool to help you do it effectively.

via thewisejobsearch.com

Posted via email from AndyWergedal

3 Ways to Think Like a Recruiter | Career Rocketeer - Career Search and Personal Branding Blog

People often ask me why job seekers hire professional help with writing his or her resume. The great part about resume writing is that I often work with educated professionals who have years of great experience. Unfortunately, they just don’t know how to get their resumes in front of people with the power to give them a job. Generally, they’re too busy being a great nurse, project manager, executive, or whatever else to understand one important thing: how recruiters think. So here are three keys to understanding how recruiters think and some great strategies to get their attention.

Recruiters have very little time and lots to do.

While recruiters and hiring managers have many different philosophies and approaches, one thing is certain: they all review scores of resumes. Rejection letters can often inform candidates that hundreds of people have applied for the same position. Faced with competition of that magnitude, it’s easy to see why your resume has to be outstanding in order for you to get any attention from an employer. Most people reviewing your resume simply don’t have more than a minute or two to look it over.

Know your target audiences – yes there is more than one.

Given the volume of resumes employers receive for each position, lower-level hiring staff are frequently used to “shortlist” candidates for each opening. This means that a less experienced HR professional is reviewing dozens of resumes in order to weed out 6-10 strong candidates. With this in mind, it’s important to write your resume in simple terms that someone who doesn’t have your background can grasp. As you develop the highlights from each of your previous positions, ask yourself if a stranger at a cocktail party would understand what you’ve just written. Make sure you include appropriate keywords so lower level staff can easily identify your skills but use accomplishment-based statements and numbers to catch the higher level decisions makers.

Relevant experience is what brings home the bacon.

Let’s imagine for a moment that you’re looking for a pet sitter while your family is away for a week’s vacation. In looking for a pet sitter, you would generally want to know about the person’s experience with pets, whether her availability met your needs, and whether your pet liked her during an in-person introduction. The pet sitter candidate would be wasting your time if she told you all about her experience roofing houses or preparing people’s income taxes. It’s fabulous that she has those abilities, but all you need to know is whether she can walk and feed your dog.

The same principle is true for resumes. Because the average worker holds more than 10 jobs during his or her career, chances are good that some of your accomplishments may not be relevant to the job you’re currently trying to get. Use your resume space for the experiences that matter, and don’t overwhelm reviewers with information that they don’t need.

For a free resume analysis submit your resume via e-mail to info@greatresumesfast.com. Or view professionally-written resume samples at http://www.greatresumesfast.com.

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Author:

Jessica Holbrook Hernandez is an expert resume writer, career and personal branding strategist, author, speaker and President/CEO of Great Resumes Fast. She creates high-impact, best-in-class, resumes and cover letters that win interviews. For a free resume analysis visit http://www.greatresumesfast.com/ or for a free phone consultation call 1.800.991.5187.

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How to Handle Sticky Interview Situations - Careers Articles

Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer

Think back to the 2007 Miss Teen USA pageant when Caitlin Upton, representing South Carolina, was asked why so many Americans were unable to locate the United States on a map. Her response was muddled, to put it kindly. Her incoherent response not only left the judges scratching their heads but also proved that answering a question on the spot can cause anyone to stumble.

Although that video clip went viral and millions of viewers have fun laughing at Upton's botched answer, you can probably assume everyone identified with her to a degree. Who hasn't been called on in class or been asked a question in a meeting and just blathered on like a toddler?

Imagine feeling this helpless during a job interview. You're already tense enough during a job interview without worrying that you won't even be able to piece together a proper sentence. Yet, many job seekers have found themselves caught in a situation where the right answer just isn't coming to them. Even if they're not tongue tied, they don't know how to answer an interviewers peculiar or possibly illegal question.

Caught off guard anyone can freeze during a job interview. How should you avoid being the next Miss South Carolina in your job hunt?

1. Be creative and still professional

Sometimes hiring managers ask questions they know will catch you off guard. The purpose of the question isn't so much about what you answer as it is how you handle the pressure. For example, if you're asked how many gallons of paint are necessary for you to paint the moon, don't worry about getting the math right. The hiring manager probably doesn't know the answer either. Fun or quirky questions are supposed to knock you out of your comfort zone so that the employer can observe you.

Career expert and author J.P. Hansen stresses individuality balanced with professionalism.

"When asked a fun question, such as 'What color would you be?' your answer should be fun, creative, entertaining and showcase your personality," Hansen says. "With that in mind, never forget to remain professional and polished. Just because you are in a fun moment in an interview, does not mean this is your time to become best friends with the interviewer or slack in professionalism. Remember, you are still in an interview."

2. Don't panic

When you're in an interview, dozens of thoughts run through your mind. You say to yourself: "Maintain good posture and make eye contact;" "Don't say 'uhm' too much;" "Don't yawn;" "Speak slowly;" "How did the handshake go -- too forceful or too weak?" You're so busy analyzing the situation and trying to appear calm that you don't pay enough attention to the question at hand. Suddenly the hiring manager is waiting for you to talk and you're not sure what to say to a question you know you could answer any other day of the week.

"It's common to blank out during an interview but fatal to answer, 'I don't know,'" Hansen explains. "If you draw a blank or don't understand the question, simply ask a qualifier. For example, 'I'm not sure I understand the question.' It buys you time and puts the ball back in the interviewer's court."

Even if the interviewer doesn't clarify the question as much as you'd like, you still get a few extra moments to piece together a coherent response. And remember, coherence means a lot in an interview.

"[The] interviewer's pet peeve?" Hansen asks. "A rambling response that doesn't answer the question."

3. Decide how personal you're willing to go

Sometimes hiring managers cross a line with their questions and you're not sure how to respond. Although on occasion you'll run into an unpleasant employer for whom you'd never want to work, most interviewers are good people trying to find good workers. And like any human they make mistakes, such as asking questions that are illegal or at the very least make you uncomfortable. Granted, if this person is being paid to interview people, he or she should know better, but everyone make mistakes. Also, their mistake doesn't mean you should feel forced to answer any question they ask if you're not comfortable. Hansen recommends jobs seekers find their own limits if, for example, the interviewer asks about your health.<

"If you want the job, answer in an upbeat, confident manner. Try, 'I exercise, eat right, and according to the results of my last check-up, my health is excellent,'" he suggests. "You always have a choice not to answer a question, but know that you'll likely disqualify your candidacy. The best advice: Answer all questions, get the offer and then decide."

When confronted with one of these questions, step back and think about what it means to you. Is the interviewer prying into your life or trying to get at a deeper issue, or did the question come out wrong even though no ill intent is obviously meant? Trust your instincts and keep the answers in your comfort zone. As with any sticky interview situation, you want to remain calm and in control at all times.

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Posted via email from AndyWergedal

Starting Salaries Start to Slip - Careers Articles

By Geoff Roth

If you're a recent college graduate and have been fortunate enough to land a job, that is good news. But, there is a bit of a black cloud around that silver lining.

According to a new survey, the average starting salary for new college grads slipped this year, down 1.3 percent from last year.

The survey, done by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, shows that the average starting salary across all disciplines was at $48,661, down from an average of $49,307 last year.

But, as is the case with hiring trends, all degrees and disciplines are not equal. Students with degrees in information sciences saw a hefty increase from last year, up 5.7 percent, at an average starting salary of $55,084. And, it may not come as a surprise that those with liberal arts degrees saw the biggest slide from last year, down 3.9 percent to $34,747.

According to the survey, the highest starting salaries are still going to students with computer engineering degrees, at an average of $59,917. But, that average was down 2.9 percent from last year.

Another organization that monitors starting salaries, Payscale, doesn't look at the ups and downs of salary levels, but does keep track of averages. According to their latest report, students with chemical engineering degrees are bringing in the highest average starting salary, at $65,700.

While average salaries are down in the United States recent grads in China are starting to feel the effects of a growing economy. According to a recent survey by one of China's largest human resource companies, the average salary for college graduates in China rose 10 percent this year. But, to put things in perspective, that average salary is the equivalent of around $4,800 a year.

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Posted via email from AndyWergedal

Real-World Job Search Tips - Careers Articles

By Jeff Lipschultz

There's no end the amount of advice available to job seekers. Some of it may seem too generic or theoretical. Forbes.com recently published a job-seeking article based on interviews of several people who shared how they found jobs in the last few months. I believe all the advice is valid -- but thought I'd expand on their thoughts and give you more ideas to consider.

1. Reach out to companies you admire.

2. Focus on quality, not quantity -- targeted letters/resumes, not e-mail blasts.

• By targeting your search, you can increase your odds of being considered for an interview. Many folks send out hundreds of resumes hoping to win a "numbers game." For very generic positions, this may work. But for jobs requiring specific expertise, you need to target your resume to the job. Highlight the experiences that you need the resume reviewer to read; don't bury them in a lot of generic information typically used for resume blasts to a large audience.
• By finding specific companies, you can mention in your introductory or cover letter why you are applying to their specific company. Managers like applicants who have a strong desire to work for them, not just land any job. Do your homework to learn about possible companies that match your interests. Resources like Hoovers or your local library's company databases can prove invaluable.

3. Use a blog to show off your expertise.

4. Tap online job sites

• Look beyond the mega-sites

5. Clean up your online profile

• Make sure you are self-Googling periodically
• Social media and job boards have grown multi-fold in the last few years. Although company and mega-job boards, like CareerBuilder, are great resources, also realize that jobs are posted in other unique ways. Twitter boasts TweetmyJobs. LinkedIn has groups for many areas of expertise, which often include a job posting section. People are even starting to leverage Foursquare to post jobs. Even Facebook has online communities that can share job leads. Some companies even off an option to be texted on your phone when a job is posted matching your interests. There are also job boards for many of the specific occupations -- use Google to find them.
• Good recruiters are posting jobs all across the Web. They are also conducting online searches that may find you if you are posting to a blog (yours or guest posting to others). With this in mind, you do need to make sure they don't find negative information about you. It may never come up in conversation (so you'll not know they found it), but it could knock you out of consideration. This includes negative comments on other people's blogs.

6. Use a headhunter.

7. Use your network to make you look good

• Mutual friends can sing your praises.
• This is common advice all tied to leveraging a network. Consider how important it is to leverage your closest contacts. Many job seekers are afraid to talk about their unemployment; but remember, friends and colleagues who CAN help you, WILL help you. They may assume you've got your situation well under control, and won't reach out on your behalf unless you ask.
• Recruiters are paid by clients, not job seekers. Find recruiters who have similar job postings to the type of job you seek. The best way to get their attention is to e-mail them with the job title/number in the subject heading of your email. If there isn't a job posted you qualify for, you can state that you understand they haven't posted a job that you're a match for, but wanted to touch base for future opportunities. Of course, the best way to contact a recruiter is through your network, leveraging a common friend. Recruiters are more likely to help friends of friends.

8. Pound the pavement

• Drop off your resume at offices and assess companies.

9. Be persistent

• Call/email employers at least twice a week.

10. Stay organized.

• Keep track of everyone you talk to and follow up.
• You won't land a job by just e-mailing dozens resumes. You need to have a multi-faceted approach. I have told teachers, like the one mentioned in the article, to stop by schools and drop off your resume. If you leave a friendly impression, they may call you back. In some cases, they may interview you on the spot. Not often, but it does happen -- be ready for this.

It's important to know who you've talked to you and when. Especially when working with recruiters and HR folks. When they call you back, you want to have your list handy so you know exactly what they are calling in reference to. Remember, you need to make the impression that you are very interested in their specific opportunity (even if you're interested in 20 specific opportunities).

In addition to being persistent, you need to be patient. I know financially speaking, this can be very trying. But you need to plan for your job hunt to be long term (plan your spending accordingly); keep plugging away and the right job will come along. It did for all the folks mentioned in the article, and it will for you.

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Posted via email from AndyWergedal

Career Advice by Career Experts J.T. O’Donnell & Dale Dauten : CAREEREALISM

‘JT & Dale Talk Jobs’ is the largest nationally syndicated career advice column in the country and can be found at JTandDale.com.

Dear J.T. & Dale: Six months ago I was hired as the receptionist for a small manufacturing company run by the owner and his two sons. Even though each of the sons has his own assistant, over time I have accrued many additional duties outside being receptionist. As a result, I must leave my desk periodically. The owner has started calling me out for not answering the phone. I rarely take lunch, work late every night, and I’m so stressed out that I cry every day. Please tell me what to do. — Danya

J.T.: Telling your boss about the problem is not enough — SHOW him. Starting Monday, track how you spend each day, and after a week or two, you’ll have quantifiable evidence to support how much work you are doing above and beyond the job you were hired for. Next, schedule a meeting to show him the information, and nicely say: “Since I’m new here, I feel like I may not be prioritizing my time the way you want me to. Could we look at this together?”

Dale: It’s worth a shot, I suppose, Danya. However, if your boss were a helpful, understanding sort, he already would have spotted the problem and addressed it. So, before your meeting, I’d suggest an additional step: Seek out your predecessor and ask her how she handled the job. Further, go to the two assistants for advice — you need allies. Do those things before meeting with the boss, and you’ll know where you stand … and I’m guessing you’ll soon be standing in line at Kinko’s to print out resumes, getting ready to move on. Most bosses don’t adapt to their employees.

J.T.: I’m not so pessimistic. Added responsibilities are a sign that you are respected. I’m guessing the boss will help you reorganize your job, and if he seems receptive, that might even give you an opening to discuss pay, saying something like, “Can you tell me the next steps so that I can eventually earn a promotion and pay increase for all this additional work?” His response will give you a glimpse of the future and your prospects. Remember, you control how people treat you, and you can teach them to create a better job situation.

Dale: I hope it works, but my prediction is that you’ll end up with this important career revelation: It’s better to change bosses than to try to change the boss.

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Jeanine “J.T.” Tanner O’Donnell is a professional development specialist and the founder of the consulting firm, jtodonnell.com, and of the blog, CAREEREALISM.com. Dale Dauten resolves employment and other business disputes as a mediator with AgreementHouse.com.

Please visit them at jtanddale.com, where you can send questions via e-mail, or write to them in care of King Features Syndicate, 300 W. 57th St, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10019.

© 2010 by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

The photo for this article is provided by Shutterstock.

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Posted via email from AndyWergedal