An hour of pain, a lifetime of regret -- when tattoos go bad
Seymour's advice about avoiding visible tattoos and other forms of body decoration at the office got me thinking about the wild designs that may lurk beneath your unassuming co-workers' starched Oxfords and pleated khakis. This blog gives some extreme (and often hilarious) examples of tattoos that you'd definitely want to keep concealed among everyone but your most intimate friends. It also reminded me of why, while I appreciate and respect the artistry of tattoos and the rationale behind most of them (except for the sort featured on the awful tattoo blog), I believe it's important to carefully consider your future goals before committing to any ink. While tattoos are not totally indelible, the scars resulting from tattoo removal usually are, so make absolutely sure you have a legitimate reason for getting one on an area that cannot be covered by long sleeves and pants. Getting a tattoo on impulse is about as good an idea as buying a pet crocodile on impulse, and it won't be nearly as good a conversation-starter, so caveat emptor.
How exciting! It's your first day on the job and you’re ready to take on the world. Well, hold on there, dude. Believe it or not, you literally have just seconds (or if you are lucky, a few minutes) to convince the entire office that you are a terrific addition. Yes, even before your first cup of coffee, you’ll be the object of lots of office gossip about your wardrobe, confidence, education, economic and relationship status. Even if you do everything right that first day, the rest of that first week you’ll be sized up by colleagues and managers as they try to figure out whether you are a great hire… or not.
Don’t dismiss those first few days believing you'll be given a break because you’re “the new guy.” People aren’t that nice. Instead, be on top of your game because there are a few things that can sour the early impressions people have of you.
Don’t be late. If you show up late to work, you’re doomed. Being on time is a basic expectation that should not be taken lightly. To be safe, do a test run to work and allow extra time for emergencies. Better yet, plan to arrive a few minutes early. Don’t dress inappropriately. Choosing your work wardrobe– especially during the first week – can be challenging if you're not familiar with the company’s culture. No matter what, stay away from visible tattoos and piercings, unusual hair styles or colors, and any clothing that is too tight, short, baggy, wrinkled or low-cut. Ideally, take a look at an employee manual prior to your first day or contact human resources for guidance. Don’t forget names. People admire people who remember and use their names. So, try hard to remember the folks you're introduced to during your first week. Associate a person's name with someone or something you know to help jog your memory. Don’t cuss. You may be comfortably fowl-mouthed with friends or family, but in the workplace such language is considered offensive. Instead, choose your words carefully and avoid phrases like "that sucks" or "that bites." They’re simply unprofessional. Don’t over-use your cell phone. The hard truth is this: cell phones can become a nuisance in an office setting. If you must use your cell phone, do it privately and quickly. And, if you must bring your cell phone to meetings, be sure to explain why you must have it with you, and put it on vibrate. Don’t disregard orientation. Training and orientation can be dull – or overwhelming. Don’t create the perception that you are not engaged in your new responsibilities. Instead, ask questions that can give you an advantage during your first few weeks on the job.
So, make an effort to present yourself as favorably as possible right out of the gate. If your co-workers have a good first impression, it will have a positive affect on how they view you in the months and years to come. Remember, you will be sized up every day by everyone you meet. No pressure though. Just be the best you can be. Good luck!
For those of you still up in the air with regard to post-graduate studies, this MSN Money Smart Spending Blog entry could help to ease your decision. It covers everything a recent graduate needs to consider before committing to a higher degree program, including a fairly thorough segment on "intellectual and spiritual planning," something that I feel is seldom adequately discussed as part of the postgraduate decision-making process. It's an enlightening read, even for undergraduates still relatively far from their degree, and it might just prompt new and more productive lines of thought for those of you who need to make the big decision sooner rather than later.
Fact or Fiction? A Master's Degree Is the Key to Career Success
In the midst of this crazy economythere has been a lot of talk about the merits of a master's degree.Some claim it is an absolute requirement for professionals who are committed to advance – going so far as to call a master's the "new bachelor's degree."Others consider a master’s degree little more than a very expensive wall decoration.
So, when does getting a master’s degree make sense? If you are a career professional who needs to develop a different skill set in order to break into a new industry, or if you would like to advance to a higher position in your current field, a master’s degreemay be just the ticket. However, for some careers, a master's is considered essential – even for “quick studies.”
Getting a master’s degree online can be a great way to do it – especially from a financial and time management standpoint. Online universities enable you to study on your own schedule, and costs overall are generally lower too. To research education programs that can best suit you visit College Grad’s website.
Some master's degrees, such as an MBA look great on any professional resume. Business school is a smart idea for a variety of careers because it can heighten your earning potential and impress potential employers. And, for business professionals, the benefits of earning a master’s degree are really substantial. Solid work experience and the education gained from getting an MBA is a powerful combination – one that can take you to the top of the ladder.
If you are in the technology or computer fields, a master’s degree can also meanhigher salaries and career advancement. Most technology master’s programs focus on blending management skills with technical proficiency.Information Technology (IT), Technology Management, Management Information Systems (MIS), and Information Security are just a few areas in which you could specialize.
In addition to the business and computer technology fields, there are many other interesting professions where a master's degree is not only valued, but can be a real benefit.Think about the advantages and disadvantages of furthering your education and do what will ultimately lead you to career success. In some cases, an advanced degree will help you reach your professional goals and full earning potential. But, remember – depending on the career you choose – that precious piece of paper is not always necessary to get ahead. Good luck!
In this Trump University blog entry, staff writer Thomas M. Schmitz identifies three personal attributes that are most sought-after by employers during times of economic crisis--employability, networking ability, and--this may come as a surprise to some of you--writing ability. Why writing ability? According to Mr. Schmitz, potential employees boasting a body of written work get the green light more than not because they, by virtue by being published (or even prolific amateur bloggers), have demonstrated their ability to research, process, and articulate information in a professional fashion. A robust writing portfolio is not something most potential employees have to show off, so get those fingers on home row and start carpal tunneling your way to success!
Just think of it. Employers are probably receiving hundreds, if not thousands, of job applicationsfar more than what they used to get. Many employers use a college degreeas a means to make the first cut. If you’re a college grad, you already have a distinct advantage over other job seekers. However, you will still need to do your homework in order toset yourself apartfrom the rest. Here are some tips that can help improve your chances of landing a jobduring a recession.
Network. Network. Network - Whether you like it or not, if you are seeking a real job right now, you have totalk to people. And, more importantly, you have to listen to what they have to say. Take advantage of eventsthat are sponsored by clubs, associations, or groups on campus or around town.Seek out professionalsin the career that interests you and solicit their advice. You never know – they may be able to connect you to someone in your field who is hiring.
Swallow hard and work for free – You probably don’t have a spouse, kids or a mortgage just yet. Those big expenses often don’t allow job seekers to explore all their options. So, open yourself up to possibly moving in with your folksor friends and taking an unpaid position, as long as it is in an industry that truly interests you.Unpaid internshipssometimes turn into paid positions or lead to other opportunities. But most importantly, you will gain valuable experience in the field that interests you.
Embrace the Internet (if you haven’t already) - Search the Internet to find companies in your field that may be hiring. You can also use social networking sites likeFacebook and LinkedInto find people you may know who work at businesses that interest you. Also, identify acquaintances who may know someone who works at a company in your field and ask for an introduction. You should also research companies to prepare for interviews. And when you have an interview, spend some time on the company’s website researching the people you will meet and the company itself.
Write some blogs & read some too – A great way to brush up on an industry or possible careers is to read blogs. If you regularly read blogs and comment on them, you can begin to develop relationships with people in the industry that interests you. Believe it or not, bloggers often offer tremendous amounts of information and expertise that can help you gain a better understanding of their field. You should also start your ownblog about the career you hope to work in after graduation. Use it to post research or events. Add a link to articles or information and offer a personal commentary. And, be sure to include a link to your blog on your resume. It is a good way for employers to learn more about you before an interview.
Take a good look around - Some industries continue to hire even during a recession. Consider alternative careers. Watch employment trendsand think about other areas where your talents could be used. There is more than one way to put your skills to work.
Most importantly,be persistent. That job is out there, you just have tofind it.Good luck!
In an interview setting, having the upper hand over your interviewer is a rare occurrence, so when it happens, don't play the diffident know-nothing -- take advantage of the situation. When an interviewer gives you an opening, it's probably not out of incompetence or disinterest; chances are, it's a test. Follow Seymour's advice and gently but firmly take the reins and steer your potential employer in the right direction. To blow an interview could be to miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so even if, at that moment, you're not particularly interested in the outcome (and your interviewer seems just as indifferent), pretend you're going for an Oscar and convince them that you, and only you, are the person for the job. You may be surprised by what your acting chops earn you.
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