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Trends provide guidance as technology shapes careers landscapes

3/7/2013

(BPT) - The saying goes: success is when preparation meets opportunity. As technology continues to affect our lives, workers in today’s ever-changing labor market need to be prepared with skills to adapt and succeed in the workplace.

Job opportunities in technology are growing up to three times faster than other career fields in the U.S. Long gone are the days of a linear education and career trajectory as technology continues to reshape the world’s workplace landscapes. Nowadays, the career paths of most individuals resemble a scaffold rather than a conservative straight line.

Changes in the education and workplace landscape not only impact job seekers, but educators and employers as well. It’s estimated that by 2025, we could have 20 million jobs without enough qualified people to fill them, according to a report by Georgetown University.

Daniel Burrus, a globally renowned corporate strategist and author of six books including The New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-seller “Flash Foresight,” recently released his inaugural Certainties list, based on a scientific method aimed at providing various employment sectors with a clearer outlook of their respective futures. As a strategist, he advises a wide range of Fortune 500 firms to develop projections by analyzing trends.

Burrus’ list of Certainties, which highlights 12 technologies that will continue to transform present and future careers, uses his proprietary scientific method of separating “Hard Trends” – trends that will happen – from “Soft Trends” – trends that might happen.

Over the past five years, Burrus has collected Certainties from thousands of senior executives from every industry around the world, providing a clear picture of the direction different sectors are heading.

“The goal is to give people a road map regarding how technology will transform their careers and how to ensure they’re not caught in disappearing careers, but rather preparing and positioning themselves for the predictable changes in their current fields as well as emerging careers with real, long-term demand,” says Burrus.

According to Burrus’ Certainties list, some of the technologies that will transform our world and careers include:

3-D Web and 3-D printing

Employment for graphic artists, designers and programmers will grow as the Web-surfing experience transforms from a one-dimensional “flat” page to a dynamic 3-D experience for the user.

Additionally, the manufacturing industry will be revolutionized by 3-D printing, which will allow any size company to manufacture goods quickly, locally and at lower cost.

Gamification of education

Both employees and students will have training and teaching methods delivered to them in a highly-personalized and accelerated way, through the use of simulations and skill-based learning systems transmitted through smartphones and tablets.

Cloud services and virtualization

As more organizations maintain and store information using cloud computing, the demand for professionals skilled in information technology is expected to rise. Employees who can safeguard important company and client data will be vital to business success.

In order to meet the anticipated demands of the 21st century, individuals must reassess their skills to make certain they are equipped with the necessary knowledge to remain relevant in their field.

Burrus recently teamed with DeVry University to launch his Certainties list. He believes the institution exemplifies the kind of forward-looking curriculum development necessary to ensure degree programs adequately prepare students for the future.

“DeVry University is committed to effectively aligning our students’ academic experience with the plausible future demands of the industries in which they seek successful careers,” says David Pauldine, president of DeVry University. “As a university, we are continuously interfacing with Fortune 100 companies to ensure our educational programs prepare our graduates for current and emerging job opportunities.”

Burrus urges employers, employees and educators alike to give serious consideration to these career-transforming Certainties so that the American worker is better positioned for careers of the 21st century. To learn more about Burrus’ full list of career-transforming “Certainties,” visit www.DeVry.edu/Certainties.

New generation of American workers seek to combine personal and professional interests

5/20/2013

(BPT) - As college students graduate and begin the job search, their career decisions won’t be driven by the same factors that drove their parents’ decisions. While baby boomers tended to focus on the vertical climb to find job happiness, today’s graduates and professionals want meaningful and challenging work that satisfies them personally.

Despite the turbulent economy, 68 percent of working Americans would be willing to take a salary cut to work in a job that allowed them to apply their personal interests to the workplace, a recent survey released by Philips North America found. Almost one quarter of workers would take a pay cut of 25 percent or more.

“Today’s professionals expect more from their careers than just a paycheck,” says Tanveer Naseer, a leadership coach who helps companies guide organizational growth and development. “They’re looking for challenge, impact and an employer who is committed to helping them achieve their goals.”

This new set of demands from employees is driving change in corporations throughout America. Philips, for example, which employs 116,000 people globally, is looking for more ways to help its employees apply their personal interests and ideas to their work.

“We’ve found that employees want a company that supports and rewards what matters to them personally,” says Dana Stocks, Philips North America Chief Human Resources Officer. “Recognizing our employees are people with real passions leads to better product innovation, ultimately improving people’s lives and the communities they live in.”

So how do graduates or professionals entering the job market find employers and roles that are a good fit and will deliver job satisfaction? Here are a few tips:

1. Look for a job that allows you to leverage personal interests in your work. Most Americans, regardless of their career stage, believe that applying personal interests in a career would make them happier. Naseer says people often find jobs that play to their strengths – but an employee’s strengths may not align with his interests. This disconnect can result in employees feeling overworked and underutilized as they’re building skills for which they have no passion.

2. Use your resume as a tool to reflect yourself as a person, not just a potential employee. Social resumes provide the opportunity for job seekers to express themselves beyond educational credentials and a laundry list of responsibilities they’ve taken on in the workplace. Your employer isn’t hiring the resume; they are hiring you as a person. Use your resume to help them feel connected to you as a person. Include assets such as video interviews on relevant topics, thought leadership presentations, or links to blogs and social media sites that you maintain.

3. Know yourself first, and submit your application second. Many job seekers apply to too many jobs without truly understanding their qualification levels or fit for each. Take the time to understand yourself, your story, the intersection of your personal and professional passions, and formulate a short list of jobs that align. By focusing on the quality versus the quantity of your applications, you have a better chance of making the “right” career choice vs. the “right now” career choice.

When job seekers find the right roles that allow them to pursue their individual aspirations within the context of their professional careers, it’s a win for both the individual and the organization.

Why independent learning is key to your child's long-term educational goals

4/3/2013

One skill essential to children’s academic success is the ability to learn on their own. While teachers and parents play a key role in a child’s development, educational activities that encourage self-learning are equally important.

Learning independently inspires children to become more confident and nurtures critical thinking and analytical skills. Giving children time to learn on their own taps into their natural curiosity and allows them to explore new ideas in a way that more structured learning activities do not.

What exactly is self-learning?

At its core, self-learning is a method of learning that encourages students to study and learn without being taught directly. Through self-learning students develop a progressive ability to comprehend new information. In a traditional classroom setting, activities move along at a pace that usually caters to the class as a whole, rather than to each individual student.

Self-learning exercises allow students to think critically and move on to more challenging exercises at their own speeds. Students can then develop a more thorough understanding of a concept, while also gaining confidence in their abilities.

How Kumon math and reading programs can help

The Kumon Method of Learning aims to build students’ knowledge by igniting their desire to learn, while fostering analytical skills. Each student learns at his or her own pace, which removes the limits inherent in programs that focus on a specific test or goal.

The Kumon Method focuses on building self-learning skills like concentration and independence, which students can carry with them for the rest of their academic careers. Students work with instructors to identify their current level of learning, and develop a thorough understanding of each learning concept at their own pace – making it accessible to children of all academic levels.

Kumon students are given short, incremental assignments that help them apply knowledge gained from previous lessons on to the next one. The ultimate goal is for students to progressively build the knowledge and learning skills that will allow them to study above their grade levels.

Other ways to encourage self-learning

Self-learning isn’t tied to school-related activities only; children of any age are learning through life experiences every day. By promoting critical thinking through play activities, you can also do your part to help your child’s development.

Any activity that taps into your child’s innate aptitude to work through challenges independently can help support your child’s ability to self-learn. Craft projects and building projects are great vehicles for meeting your child’s need for creative thought and exploration.

With more than 50 years in the education industry, Kumon has identified the best ways to unlock your child’s learning potential. Visit www.kumon.com to learn more about the benefits of self-learning and how you can go beyond tutoring with Kumon.

Be a real life hero: Taking on the most impossible missions and doing whatever it takes to keep America safe

1/24/2013

(BPT) - When the Navy needs to complete seemingly impossible missions or track elusive targets, the job is often assigned to Naval Special Warfare (NSW) or Naval Special Operations (NSO) teams. These elite men and women work with dedication and intense courage in locations all over the world, and in every possible climate, to neutralize potential threats.

Although the young men and women interested in pursuing a career in the NSW/NSO community do not need to have a college degree to excel in these challenging environments, they do need to be specially trained to work closely and efficiently with other special forces to ensure the successful completion of missions around the globe. The training these individuals go through is truly life-altering: training can include advanced swimming and lifesaving techniques, diver and parachute training, maritime navigation and helicopter operations. Some of the careers individuals can excel in include:

* Aviation Rescue Swimmers (AIRR)

The motto of the Aviation Rescue Swimmer community is "So Others May Live." The responsibilities vary from rescue and recovery to surveillance and operational support for Sailors who serve as part of this top emergency response unit. AIRRs are typically attached to an aircraft for their tasks, which can include saving pilots of downed aircraft, coming to the aid of civilians during natural disasters, rappelling to reach survivors at a remote crash site, collaborating with other forces on joint rescue missions, jumping out of a helicopter to pluck crewmembers out of frigid waters and conducting surveillance in anti-submarine warfare and drug interdiction operations.

Intense training is required for these Sailors. This includes nearly two years of training in advanced swimming and lifesaving techniques, as well as training in water and land survival, flight safety, search and rescue, Naval aviation and more. The training is as true to life as possible because work environments can be different for every situation.

* Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician (EOD)

EODs are brought in to deal with disposal of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons. They clear IEDs, parachute out of aircraft, dive beneath ships - protecting others by handling situations with steady hands and even steadier nerves. They also investigate and demolish underwater obstructions, prepare coastal regions for amphibious landings and provide intelligence about potential threats, both in the United States and abroad. This work has EODs located all around the world, and missions could be by air, land or sea.

Training involves 51 rigorous weeks, including various levels of EOD preparation, diver training and parachute training. Duties of EODs may include demolition of hazardous munitions, pyrotechnics and outdated explosives, locating and identifying underwater foreign and domestic ordinances, performing parachute and helicopter insertion operations in support of missions, supporting military and civilian law enforcement agencies, and executing underwater mine countermeasure operations to clear waterways in support of the Fleet.

* Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman (SWCC)

Named the “Quiet Professionals,” SWCC provide critical mission support to Navy SEALs. They operate state-of-the-art, high-performance boats. They protect global waters from enemy combatants. This elite team carries out military actions that are beyond the capability of standard forces. These Sailors secure the freedom of global waters via the riverine and littoral environments by operating independently among small units or while integrated with other U.S. Special Operations forces or within U.S. Navy carrier and expeditionary strike groups.

SWCC perform direct action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic, as well as provide rapid mobility in shallow water areas where larger ships cannot operate. They maintain ammunition, weapons, combat vehicles and other equipment associated with SWCC and other special operations missions.

Training for SWCC is as intense as all other NSW/NSO ratings, but Sailors interested in this opportunity may receive specialized training in areas including maritime navigation, radio communications, boat/propulsion systems engineering and parachute and helicopter operations.

The Navy is A Global Force for Good with many exciting and challenging career opportunities available. Visit navy.com to learn more about some of these opportunities, and the background required to serve.

Graduate certificates help nurses advance their careers

3/6/2013

(BPT) - As the U.S. health care system continues to evolve, industry demand for more highly educated nurses is growing. Data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing shows current and prospective nurses are responding to rising education requirements: enrollment in all types of programs at nursing schools across the country increased from 2010 to 2011.

Some nursing schools offer graduate certificates that allow nurses to expand their expertise and meet critical areas of need in the nursing profession. Offered to nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, graduate certificates are designed to enhance nurses’ professional competencies and prepare them to apply for national certification in specialized disciplines.

“As the patient population becomes more diverse, and the delivery of care more complex, nurses with advanced knowledge and skills can influence the quality of care that patients receive,” says Carole Eldridge, director of graduate programs for Chamberlain College of Nursing. “With expertise in in-demand disciplines, nurses can also expand their current scope of practice and increase their professional marketability.”

Chamberlain offers online Graduate Certificate Programs for MSN-prepared nurses to hone their expertise in either education or informatics, with or without practicums; practicum is optional for students with practical application experience in their area of study. Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education Program will be prepared to take the National League for Nursing’s Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam, and graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Nursing Informatics Program will be prepared to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center Informatics Nursing exam.

Graduate certificate programs help meet the Institute of Medicine’s recommendations for nurses to achieve higher levels of education and for nursing schools to find new ways to prepare nurses to better meet evolving patient needs. They can also help nurses respond to areas of need in the health care workforce.

One such area is nursing education. U.S. nursing schools turned away more than 75,000 qualified applicants from baccalaureate and graduate nursing degree programs in 2011 due, in part, to insufficient faculty. Without enough educators, the industry cannot prepare enough incoming nurses to respond to the growing national shortage.

Health care informatics is another fast-growing field. A 2012 report by Jobs for the Future and Burning Glass Technologies measured online job postings from 2007 to 2011 and found that health care informatics positions grew by 36 percent, while total online job postings for that same period grew by only 6 percent.

The modern health care setting is dependent upon nurses with the specialized knowledge to oversee implementation of innovative information technology, such as electronic health records. Nurses with a graduate certificate in nursing informatics can be prepared for a variety of related roles, including clinical informatics analyst, informatics nurse specialist or chief nursing information officer.

The increase of graduate certificate programs demonstrates that academic leaders and nurses are committed to building a strong, well-educated workforce that is prepared to address the health care challenges of tomorrow.

Gearing college grads up for the workforce

6/5/2013

(BPT) - The job market doesn’t appear to be as tight as it was a year ago. The unemployment rate dropped to 7.5 percent in April 2013, down from the 8.1 percent we faced in April 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Even so, finding a job remains a tough challenge for new college graduates who are eager to begin their careers.

For those facing the challenge of finding employment today, advice gleaned from two collegiate professionals can help. “This is the time to think out of the box,” says Amanda Rajotte, director of career services at Brown Mackie College - Hopkinsville. “I encourage students to focus on employment goals early in the program.”

The prepared candidate is a step ahead

“Good verbal skills, the ability to embrace change, and being a team player can catch a prospective employer’s attention,” says Grace Klinefelter, of the Business & Organizational Leadership program chair at Argosy University, Washington DC. “Companies look for candidates with problem-solving and analytical skills, too.” Think about these questions: What can I bring to a company? Why should they choose me? Writing your own answers to these essential questions is a good way to prepare for a job search. The exercise can provide valuable insight that may help shape your responses to future interview questions.

Take a hands-on approach

Rajotte’s job as director of career services entails a constant search for employment opportunities to help graduates of many different academic programs. She honed her job-seeking skills when she moved to Kentucky, where she knew no one, and needed to find work herself. “I fully support a proactive, hands-on approach,” she says. “It is never too early to begin networking.” She encourages students to interact with professionals in the field as much as possible.

Maintain alumni contacts

She counsels students to attend networking events with people who are a year ahead in the academic program. “Those students will have a position by the time the others graduate. It’s as important to build relationships with those about to enter your field as it is with people already working. Referrals can come from both sources,” Rajotte says. Word of mouth can be powerful. Even if the person you have stopped to chat with isn’t in a position to help, you never know if they have a friend who is looking to fill a spot.

Join professional associations

Much can be accomplished simply by knowing people. Klinefelter relates the true story of one Argosy University student who panicked at the thought of facing her search for employment. “She had already fulfilled the requirements for graduation, yet wanted to take more courses. I encouraged her to join a professional association connected to her field,” she says. “Once she connected with her professional group, she landed a job with the association. It’s about having the right attitude and looking forward instead of back,” says Klinefelter.

Visit the local chamber of commerce

“This is something I did when I moved here,” says Rajotte. “I reached out and got in contact with the different committees they run.” The meetings offered the opportunity to meet with executives from some of the larger corporations in the community, and let them know she was new in town, with specific qualifications. “This became a successful network that was useful. One community leader was willing to send a letter of introduction for me,” Rajotte says.

Attend community events

It isn’t necessary to wait for a local networking event to happen. Developing relationships means putting yourself out there and letting people know your professional intentions. “It’s a way for students and graduates to find out about local organizations they can join, as well as employment opportunities,” says Rajotte.

Volunteer efforts offer mutual benefits

Volunteer work provides experience. “Our medical assistant students volunteer at a local free clinic. Help is always needed, and it gives them real-world experience beyond the externship in the career field,” says Rajotte. “It’s a great way to get professional references.” College campuses also provide volunteer opportunities. “Students can demonstrate capabilities by volunteering to work with faculty on special projects, as well as outside activities,” says Klinefelter. Even volunteer activities outside of your field of study can be beneficial. You never know who is painting or planting flowers beside you.

The key to being in-demand your entire career: Be a 'producer'

5/13/2013

(BPT) - From January 2010 to February 2013, the average unemployment rate was 8.8 percent, a stark contrast to the average of 5.3 percent from January 2003 to December 2006. Though the unemployment rate - currently at its lowest point since 2009 - has begun to improve, it is a slow recovery; the percentage of unemployed Americans out of work for more than one year has skyrocketed from 10 percent in 2007 to more than 30 percent today, according to The Pew Charitable Trusts.

Despite the competitive employment outlook, certain individuals seem to remain employed no matter how dismal the job climate. These professionals are the first to receive offers when companies are in acquisition mode and are rarely laid off during lean times. Their seemingly “charmed” reality is far removed from the struggles experienced by the vast majority of their peers, and inevitably begs the question: What is the secret to their success? The answer is simple - they possess the skills that keep them in demand.

Career expert Bill van Steenis, frequent speaker at colleges and universities across the country and author of “In-Demand: How to Get Hired, Develop a Career and Always be Successful,” offers a three-part formula for staying in-demand:

1. Solve a problem. Every successful career begins with the critical understanding of why people are hired in the first place: to solve a problem that a company or organization doesn’t have the resources to solve from within. It is important to remember that filling an open position is about what’s best for the company, not you. “If you aren’t achieving results, they’ll find someone who will,” says van Steenis.

2. Be competent. Possessing competence in your field may sound obvious, but according to van Steenis, it’s imperative for individuals to stay current and remain relevant. “Employers don’t hire you for your ability to theorize. They hire you because they know you’re capable of doing what they need you to do,” says van Steenis. This is especially critical for those either pursuing or expecting to pursue a college degree.

When selecting a university, it is important to consider schools that can provide hands-on learning and experiences from professors working in fields related to the courses they teach. Ensuring you will be able to demonstrate competence upon graduation is vital during your job search.

“Colleges and universities are shifting their mentalities to career-focused educations in order to adapt to the changing job market and address America’s skills gap,” says van Steenis. “DeVry University, for example, works with Fortune 100 companies to develop curriculum that prepares its students for emerging job opportunities, to ensure that graduates are ready to add value from Day One of receiving their first career opportunities.”

3. Produce. “My father always told me – ‘the world pays for producers – be one,’” says van Steenis. “You may be able to solve a problem, you may be highly competent; however, the key to staying in-demand is to be a producer.”

Organizations look for all the signs of a good candidate when hiring, but once that employee begins the job, the only question is, “How are you helping the company?” Employees that produce are the least likely to be let go despite rough economic conditions, and the first to be recruited when openings become available.

Whether you are just starting your career fresh out of college or a mid-career professional, applying van Steenis’ formula can enable you to join the ranks of workplace ‘producers’ and remain in-demand throughout your career.

Productivity-boosting improvements for your home office

2/6/2013

(BPT) - Let’s face it – not everyone has a home office that inspires productivity. But if you work from home at all – and the Bureau of Labor Statistics says 24 percent of people employed outside the home do at least some of their work at home – having a comfortable, organized and appealing home office can make your job easier.

Home Business Magazine says there are around 38 million home-based businesses in the U.S., and 34.3 million to 36.6 million households with active home offices. That’s a lot of home offices – and a lot of ugly desks, dim lighting and clutter, too.

Many home offices are less the product of careful planning than something that evolves from a spare bedroom, bonus room or an extra corner in the basement. Even if your home office is more of an after-thought, it’s possible to make some simple improvements that will enhance its appeal – and your productivity.

Here are four improvement and design choices that can help make your home office a hub of good business:

Begin with the basics

Renovating any room should start with the simplest investment that also provides a big payoff: paint. Repainting is one of the cheapest, easiest ways to completely change the look of a room. A fresh coat of paint, no matter what color, imparts a sense of freshness and energy to a room – just the kind of effect that can enhance your productivity.

When choosing a color for your home office, keep in mind that the hue should serve as a backdrop, not a distraction. Red may be your favorite color, and one you love in your bedroom, but home workers often spend eight hours a day or more in their home offices. Will the color you choose hold up to that kind of intense togetherness?

Invest in storage

Clutter in your home can range from simply annoying to downright depressing. In your home office, it can spell disaster – in the form of lost paperwork, missing projects and even lost business.

Plenty of storage and an organizational system that makes the most of it are essential for your home office. Whether you opt for open shelving, locking file cabinets, a desk with ample drawers or a combination of storage types, it’s important to find solutions that work for you and fit your home office space.

Emphasize natural light

Of course you’re aware of the importance of good lighting in an office setting, but did you know that ample natural lighting can boost your productivity? The mood-boosting effects of natural light are well documented, with many studies showing that office workers exposed to daylight throughout their work day are happier, healthier and more productive than those who function only under artificial light.

In your home office, ample natural light from sources such as a skylight can help reduce Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), eyestrain and stress – all ailments that stand in the way of productivity.

“Adding a skylight to your home office can be a cost-effective way to ensure you get plenty of natural light during office hours,” says Ross Vandermark of VELUX America, makers of Energy Star-qualified skylights. “What’s more, a properly installed, energy-efficient skylight can help you control heating, cooling and lighting costs in your home office. If you opt for a fresh air skylight, it can also help enhance the air quality in your work space.”

Even if your office is on the ground floor, you may be able to add a skylight. Products such as VELUX’s Sun Tunnel tubular skylights allow you to bring natural light to virtually anywhere in your home.

Still not sure of the benefit in a home office setting? Add the latest solar powered fresh air skylight and an energy-efficient solar powered blind to your home office and the products, as well as the installation, will be eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit as a green home improvement. That’s good business! Visit www.veluxusa.com or energystar.gov to learn more about energy-efficient skylights.

Sound it out

Noise can be a huge distraction, whether you’re on deadline for a major project or on a conference call with a new client. Simple soundproofing steps can help you reduce noise in your home office – without costing you a mint.

Start with a good quality, thick carpet, which will help dampen sound. Next, add thick drapes and fabric surfaces such as an upholstered chair – fabrics help reduce the movement of sound waves.

With more Americans working from home, creating an inviting, inspiring office space is more important than ever.

The evolution of accounting: new careers in the language of business

3/27/2013

(BPT) - Numbers span all languages and cultures, creating what is known as the language of business: accounting. The earliest accounting records date back thousands of years to the use of an abacus, a rudimentary counting tool. As the workplace has progressed, so has the role of the accounting professional. This has been particularly evident in recent years; the integration of technology in accounting has created many specializations and job opportunities within the field – from forensic accounting to health care IT auditors.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants, auditors, financial bookkeepers and clerks rank among the top 25 occupations in the nation – and the employment of accountants and auditors is expected to grow 16 percent by 2020. This increasing diversity of career paths and the bright employment future are attracting many professionals to a career in accounting.

“Accounting is an exciting, expanding field going beyond traditional corporate and public accounting; the evolution of technology's role in the field has allowed new concentrations to emerge,” says Sarah Engle, professor of accountancy in the College of Business and Management at DeVry University and owner of Black River Tax Prep. “Technology has expanded the traditional boundaries associated with the profession. Mobile devices and cloud computing, for instance, allow small and mid-size accounting firms to broaden their reach to clients worldwide.”

The need for accountants with professional specializations is on the rise. The demand for forensic accountants, for instance, has expanded with the fallout from high-profile financial scandals like Enron and Lehman Brothers. These accountants focus on disputes or litigation in civil or criminal law and often investigate corporate and securities fraud, insurance and personal injury claims and computer fraud. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has adapted by adding forensic accountants to its roster of permanent positions. According to research by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the top three characteristics for a forensic accountant to possess are analytical, detail oriented and ethical.

Environmental or "green" accounting is also a growing field. With sustainability and environmental protection becoming more prominent objectives in today’s business world, green accountants will be employed to help leaders make more informed decisions. Accountants with expertise in both traditional accounting and various environmental technologies are needed to provide a more comprehensive analysis of the future cost of business.

“Today’s accountants need a widened skill set, learning and leveraging both hard and soft skills,” says Shanae Bond, a staff accountant at Macy’s and alumnae of DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management. “For example, I use both fundamental accounting principles and economics each day as well as critical thinking and customer service skills.”

There are varied educational paths for accountants, but most positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Many professionals in the field choose to earn a master’s degree and certification, such as becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), to enhance their resume and marketability.

DeVry University, for example, is helping to meet the demand of this booming industry by offering several bachelor’s degree programs that can lead to an accounting career. Courses such as cost accounting, ethics and fraud, and accounting information systems allow students to gain insight and experience that will translate in the working world.

The language of business has evolved. Future generations of accountants will have many diverse opportunities if they are well-educated and possess the skills required of today’s business world.

Educate yourself before starting the path to a new career

2/12/2013

(BPT) - If you’re looking to start a career – whether it’s because you’re just beginning your journey as a working adult or because you’re ready for a change in life – you should know that the process is much larger than just getting a degree and looking for a job.

A career involves knowing your interests in a particular industry or area, knowing what to expect as far as compensation and responsibility and researching what tools and knowledge you will need to be an asset for companies in that industry. It’s wise to begin your pursuit by educating yourself on what careers are in demand and what skills you need to enter those careers.

“Job seekers and students seeking a degree to build their skills need to take control of their careers,” says Abby Kohut, a human resources executive, recruiter and author of “Absolutely Abby’s 101 Job Search Secrets.” “They need to understand the connection between their education and a meaningful career by becoming more informed about where their interests lie, what jobs are in demand and what education is needed to gain the skills that today’s employers demand.”

Here are few simple steps that can help get you started:

1. Understand your interests – Some colleges and universities offer prospective and current students complimentary self-assessment options to help determine careers that fit their interests. For example, University of Phoenix offers Phoenix Career Services, a comprehensive suite of tools and services specifically designed to help prospective and current students make informed decisions regarding their career paths and educational needs. And the Career Interest Profiler helps students to identify professional interests in several areas, allowing them to plan ahead for paths of study.

2. Understand employer needs - Knowing what jobs will keep your interest going strong is a good start, but it’s also important to learn what employers need from workers in that field so you can take the right college courses and learn the appropriate skills. You also should learn what jobs are in demand in your field of interest, so you can assess whether your career of choice offers room to enter and grow. University of Phoenix’s Job Market Research Tool helps potential and existing students learn the demand and typical salary information in the current market.

3. Understand educational needs – Starting a new career often involves the need to return to school for a new degree so you can be more competitive when entering the job market. My Career Plan is a personalized roadmap that University of Phoenix students incorporate into their academic journey so they are developing the competencies that employers are seeking in the workforce today. And career preparation tools provide students with resume, cover letter and interview development services so they can put the best foot forward while job searching.

4. Understand your financial responsibilities – Schools will provide information on financial obligations and options, helping potential students determine if starting or going back to school is a viable option at the moment. Having a clear picture of the total cost and anticipated timing for paying off a college expense can help you set a budget as you pursue your new career goals. University of Phoenix, for instance, offers a complimentary Financial Plan designed to help prospective students estimate tuition and fees for their entire degree program and build a personal plan for how they will pay for it.

A new career is an exciting opportunity, and can provide a new look on life from income to social connections and even where you live. Just be sure to educate yourself before you jump into schooling so you can prepare yourself for the perfect career.

Use your IO psychology degree to help companies hire qualified employees and improve workplace performance

3/20/2013

To reach prospective employees, companies are using social media websites like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and various career-orientated sites like Monster, Indeed and Career Builder. It makes sense that these same companies would also use these websites to review candidates, as well. But this practice has come under great scrutiny in the past year and raised questions of applicants’ online privacy.

It is important that job seekers monitor postings made by themselves and others on their personal social media pages, Twitter accounts or even personal blog pages, removing any photos, comments or shared opinions that could negatively affect the perception of the applicant by the hiring company. Human resource departments, staffing agencies and even school administrators have overriding privileges that allow them to bypass privacy settings for the purpose of ensuring employees emulate the morals, values or behaviors that complement the company’s brand, messaging and image. This means that job seekers need to thoroughly monitor their social media sites, rather than simply turning the settings to “private.”

The scrutiny isn’t just for job seekers. Companies using social media sites also have to be careful about the potential for discriminating against potential employee candidates.

Some hiring organizations bring in professionals with a Master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology to help with the hiring process. Industrial organizational psychology applies research and scientific studies to assess employee thoughts, motivations and attitudes to predict workplace performance in the business context. These professionals are trained in legal and professional ethics for employee selection for both sides of the hiring process.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online-blended Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology designed to train professionals in human motivation and organizational behavior as well as personnel selection, performance appraisal, training, leadership, and motivation. As a blended degree, students can select from a choice of electives to tailor their studies based on their own interests and career goals. Taught by experienced business and psychology professionals, this master’s degree is applicable to any organization or industry.

Students interested in pursuing a career where they can learn the “human side” of corporations and organizations, develop consulting skills and work to build more effective corporations through organizational development should consider the online-blended master’s program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Visit thechicagoschoolonline.net to learn how you can “Unlock Human Potential.”

Summer provides opportunities for savvy students and career seekers

6/14/2013

(BPT) - The summer educational break is no excuse to put academic or career ambitions on vacation.

In fact, the traditionally slower months of summer are an ideal opportunity to assess academic and career goals, according to Joe Belliotti, president of Everest Institute-Dearborn in Michigan.

Belliotti offers the following tips to savvy students and young adults looking to take advantage of these summer months and kick-start their academic or career goals.

* Get an internship – An internship is a great way to get an inside glimpse of an industry or a particular occupation, and can help you discover if the career you are considering is right (or wrong) for you. When it’s time to enroll in or return to school, you can draw from your real-world experience for coursework and classroom discussions, which may help distinguish you from your peers. Internships also reflect well on resumes.

* Consider schools with flexible enrollment – Not every school has rigid enrollment dates, and some offer enrollment year-round. For example, some of the Everest courses are in modules, with new classes beginning nearly every month.

“Why put your education on hold when you don’t have to?” Belliotti says. “For instance, most of Everest-Dearborn’s programs can be completed in less than a year – by the time the enrollment period rolls around at other schools, you could be on your way to a diploma and embarking on a new career.”

* Polish your people skills – Summertime is a wonderful opportunity to brush up on “soft” skills like networking and interviewing, which aren’t normally taught in the classroom. In fact, a poll by Everest Institute revealed that 40 percent of young adults believe interviewing is the one skill they need to improve most to help land a job. Belliotti suggests practicing mock interviews with friends and family – or even in front of a mirror.

* Maximize your resources – Use this in-between time to learn as much as you can about your potential career field using all the resources around you – whether you use books, online research or face-to-face meetings with people in your desired field.

Belliotti suggests attending networking functions to hear insider advice from other professionals – in particular, what they wish they had known or had done differently at the start of their career.

In addition, if you’re considering further education, visit campuses and speak with students about their studies and curriculum. This will give you a better sense of the coursework, student-faculty relationships and extracurricular opportunities at a particular institution.

“Going back to school is a major undertaking, but it doesn’t have to disrupt your life,” Belliotti says. “The period before enrolling or returning to school can be invaluable to take inventory of your life and adjust your work and family responsibilities to better focus on your studies once school begins.”

Getting girls excited about science and math

4/22/2013

(BPT) - “My research experiences have shown me that, in spite of what statistics say about women in science, any girl with a passion for exploring unanswered questions can and should be persistent in pursuing that work,” says Sara Volz, 17. “Being female should not hold anyone back from science or engineering.”

Volz won the grand prize and $100,000 in the 2013 Intel Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious high school science research competition, for her research of algae biofuels. The competition inspires students to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, from cancer treatments to natural disaster solutions. This year, nearly half of the 40 finalists were female.

According to the Department of Commerce, women currently hold fewer than 25 percent of jobs in science, technology, engineering and math fields, but job opportunities in those areas are expected to grow almost twice as much as other occupations by 2018.

Parents of girls currently in junior high or high school can encourage their daughters to stay interested in science and math by supporting their education in the subjects, both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. To help inspire girls to pursue science, female Intel Science Talent Search finalists share their experiences on how they stayed involved:

* Develop a science network. A support team of like-minded classmates and friends can strengthen a girl’s interest and success in science and engineering subjects.

* Find a mentor. Teachers, neighbors, parents of friends and even business leaders in your community make great mentors in science and math. They help girls visualize the exciting path ahead of them.

* Get your hands dirty. You can only learn so much about science by reading a textbook. Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences, in the laboratory or out in the field. Actually doing science is what makes science so fun.

* Embrace your unique perspective. Research has found that men and women approach problems from different angles, which gives girls interested in science the ability to provide new and creative suggestions.

* Prepare to be surprised. Science is fun. Girls can learn and explore cutting-edge territory and be involved in researching breakthroughs in science. These breakthroughs, from medical treatments to environmental solutions, can lead to changing the world.

* Don’t give up. Stereotypes exist, but they shouldn’t prevent a girl from doing something she loves. Instead, embrace the challenge of going against socially-constructed limits and wow everyone.

As the 19 female finalists in the 2013 Intel Science Talent Search prove, girls can succeed in the fields of science and math and enjoy what they’re learning, as well. Those who explore and study these subjects have excellent future career potential and will embark on a journey of discovery in their learning.

Four simple tips to help you land a great job

6/4/2013

(BPT) - Whether you’re just graduating and entering the job market for the first time or you’re changing careers, job searching is never easy. And if you’re among the more than 1.5 million college grads looking for work this year, you will need to work smarter to stand above the crowd and land that dream job or internship. In today’s high-tech society, many potential employers are turning to social media to learn more about you.

“Before you even walk through the door for your first interview, it is highly likely the person waiting on the other side has seen more than just your resume,” says Lauren Berger, CEO of InternQueen.com. “The way you present yourself online speaks volumes to hiring managers about your tech savvy and comfort level with social media - both critical skills demanded by virtually every employer.”

With technology playing an established role in our lives and social networks easily accessible to potential employers, establishing a strong “digital footprint” and personal brand is crucial to success. So how can you use technology to land that first job and make the best first impression?

Here are some top tech tools and social media tips for landing your dream job:

* Get organized. While it may seem like a minor detail, one of the first things you should do is get a professional email address. The college email or cutesy address you created back in high school won’t impress a job recruiter. Outlook.com is free and easy to use, allowing you to quickly get organized so you never miss an important message from a potential employer. With tools like Sweep to help you filter and sort emails, you no longer need to worry about daily deals or newsletters junking up your main inbox. Windows 8 also lets you pin your favorite career websites to your Start screen, with live tiles that show your latest emails and appointments in real time and other apps to help you stay connected to your networks.

* Leverage your networks and set informational interviews. Make a target list of employers you’d like to work for and do some research about them using sites like LinkedIn, identifying one executive from each company that you'd like to meet. Try to find alumni from your school or other acquaintances who work there. Reach out to them, explain that you’ve just graduated, and ask if they will take five minutes to sit down and tell you how they got started and give you some advice.

* Put your best “digital foot” forward. You have one chance to make a first impression – make sure it’s a good one. This means not only dressing professionally, but using your style (both online and off) to demonstrate your personal interests. Building your personal brand and establishing relationships within the industry will help open doors to opportunities you may not have discovered otherwise. Make sure that your online presence is up-to-date and also reflects your best attributes. This includes maintaining consistent resume and work experience information across your networks, to build familiarity among possible recruiters.

* Lead with your strengths. Ask your friends and previous employers what your strengths are, and use specific examples during your interview to highlight them. You can also use this opportunity to demonstrate your experience with technology. If you are consistently told how well-organized you are, share a previous work experience that demonstrates how you used technology and what value this brings to the employer. Consider upgrading to a new Windows 8 PC and bringing it to the interview to show off your portfolio of work. This instantly demonstrates you’re on the cutting edge of new technology – a value for any employer.

With the influx of graduates in the job market this year, these seemingly simple tips can help you stand out from the crowd and boost your chances of finding that great job. Visit the Windows Blog for more information and helpful tech tips.

Disciplined and committed candidates wanted to serve in the elite United States Submarine Force

6/11/2013

(BPT) - Sailors silently gliding underwater while patrolling the ocean depths in a nuclear-powered sub and the pride of earning the coveted Submarine Dolphins. This is the exciting and challenging life for personnel in the United States Naval Submarine force.

Today, U.S. nuclear powered submarines are an integral part of any U.S. Navy, Joint or Combined Forces team. U.S. Submarines operate covertly, free of logistics support for extended periods. Using advanced technology, submarines operating "Forward ... From the Sea" independently, or with other Naval Forces are an invaluable sensor and weapons system platform. Submariners are in charge of all that goes into driving, powering, arming and operating the Navy’s Fleet of attack, ballistic missile and guided missile subs. These roles are only given to a small group of highly disciplined and committed personnel.

While at sea, crews often experience strong camaraderie during the busy lifestyle of specialized work, watches and drills. Everyone on the crew is important to the submarine being successful in a challenging environment. Women are being integrated into the submarine force, so opportunities may exist for anyone who is qualified.

The U.S. Navy's Submarine Force has the world's most capable submarines, manned by the world's best trained and motivated submariners. During political or military confrontation, any potential adversary must assume that United States Navy Submarines are present and consider the consequences.

There are multiple jobs to join in the United States Submarine Force. Whether you are just graduating college or high school or whether you are interested in electronics, mechanical systems, or nuclear power, if you are qualified and interested, there is a spot that will fit you.

If this highly elite force interests you contact your local recruiter, call 866-408-1241 or visit navy.com.

How classroom technology can benefit your child's education

2/4/2013

(BPT) - Historically, the term “digital divide” has referred to the gap in technology levels between developing and first world countries; however, it’s truly the divide between the more affluent and the underprivileged. While the divide has a worldwide reach, it’s important to remember that the gap is growing in America, too. Improving technology in schools – and how it’s used in learning – is an important topic because it offers students a more effective way to achieve, fully preparing them to be skills-ready for a successful future.

Today, the majority of schools in America have computers of some kind. Still, many schools, particularly rural schools and those with a high percentage of minority students, lack reliable Internet access or have old computers that aren’t compatible with current software. Concerned parents, teachers and educational leaders are rallying for change.

Providing students with modern, mobile computers and access to the Internet at school and at home promotes hands-on learning that engages students. When children are interested and excited, the learning process comes naturally. Across the country, one-to-one programs – meaning one computer is supplied for each student – are gaining interest and receiving funding. Some districts have even approved BYOD programs, or bring your own device programs, that allow students to bring their own technology (i.e. laptops, tablets, smartphones) from home to use in the classroom.

These technology enhancements are creating a 21st century classroom environment that focuses on today’s students’ needs. Rather than the teacher lecturing at the front of the classroom, students are taking the lead by exploring different topics, answering their own questions, and interacting with peers and their teachers by accessing information through technology. Benefits abound: According to Project RED, an education research organization that analyzes technology in the classroom, schools with one-to-one programs have higher test scores, better graduation rates and fewer discipline problems.

Students aren’t the only ones that come out ahead – teachers benefit from technology, too. It actually enhances the teacher’s ability to connect with students, expands access to instructional material and allows the teacher to facilitate a richer, more meaningful classroom experience.

For all the benefits of better classroom technology, funding can be an issue. While adding computers, maintaining hardware and software, and funding ongoing technology support can be costly, there is also the potential to save money through improved efficiency. In fact, according to Project RED, adding effective classroom technologies can result in increased efficiency and cost reductions – even when maintenance costs are included.

For example, instructional materials contribute to this cost savings. Traditional paper textbooks can be costly and become outdated quickly. Digital content offers one effective solution to this problem by giving students and teachers access to the most up-to-date materials online, bringing the world into the classroom and often at a fraction of the cost. Online courses, assessment and professional development are additional areas where cost savings can quickly add up.

How to spearhead a technology change in the classroom

Whether you are a parent who wants computer access in your child’s classroom or you’re an educator who wants to enable an improved learning experience through better technology, here’s how you can start the conversation and make a difference:

1. Use the K-12 Blueprint. Found at www.K12blueprint.com and sponsored by Intel Corporation, this website is a free resource for planning and implementing technology initiatives in districts. You’ll find a plethora of useful information, including practical guidelines, funding advice, curriculum considerations and real-world success stories.

2. Involve the people who care. Start discussions with fellow parents, teachers, principals and even the educational board to create a vision and plan. Discuss specific reasons for the technology improvements and benefits for the students as well as staff.

3. Explore professional development opportunities. How we teach with technology is just as important as having technology in the classroom. Ensure teachers in your community have the professional development opportunities they need so their students are learning with technology in the most effective way possible.

4. Be patient to overcome challenges. Technology isn’t a one-time investment – computer maintenance, software upgrades and continued professional development are important. Providing teachers training and creating a support network can be a time commitment. Patience and persistence are key to the success of eager students.

Technology in the classroom can help close the digital divide within the U.S., but it’s up to parents, grandparents, teachers, schools and entire communities to work together to make change a reality. When used properly, technology can provide students with a stronger education, paving the way for future innovations and research.

Fun ways to help kids 'rock out' to classical music

5/2/2013

It’s hard to imagine, but there really was a time when classical music was the popular music of the day. Haydn, Beethoven and the boys were the “rock stars” of their time. If music fans wanted to hear the latest and greatest music, they ventured to the nearest church to drink in the sounds of these classical greats.

Today, due to the pervasive nature of current popular culture combined with budget cuts in fine art programs at schools, too many children are growing up without any exposure to classical music and its developmental benefits. Parents are now realizing that if they want this exposure for their children, they must find fun and educational ways to integrate classical music into their family’s everyday routine.

This isn’t to say that popular music is not important for a child’s development; it certainly is. But what classical music offers that popular music lacks is the portal leading back in time via the composer. Children can learn so much about important historical happenings simply by learning a bit more about a composer. The textures, form and historical context of classical music provide a unique setting for learning. What’s more, listening and moving to classical and romantic-era music and identifying with the emotions being expressed can serve as a starting point for engaging children in discussions of their own feelings and emotions.

Beyond the specific benefits provided by classical music, exposing children to music in general is critical to their overall social and educational growth. One way to promote this growth is through music lessons. Families are a primary motivating factor in children’s decisions to study music, according to research by R. H. Woody. If music lessons are not an option – or even if they are – parents can instill music in a child’s life at home simply by incorporating it into daily activities.

Dr. Milton Allen is a popular conductor, clinician, speaker, author and tireless advocate on behalf of music education. He serves as an educational consultant for Music & Arts, the nation’s largest school music company, serving students, teachers and families through retail stores and school representatives since 1952. Specializing in sales and rentals of music instruments, instrument repairs and music lessons – especially for the beginning and student musician, Music & Arts now has more than 110 retail locations across 22 states.

Here are some do-it-yourself tips from Allen for parents on how to nurture your child’s appreciation for music:

1. It all begins by listening. Head to the library and check out recordings of classical music’s greatest hits. Another alternative is to check out old cartoons such as “Bugs Bunny” or “Tom and Jerry,” which often used classical music. Parents are also encouraged to make sure the car radio is tuned into the local classical music station. Even just driving around in the car listening to these classical tunes can help.

2. Encourage your child to move to the music. Whether it’s beating a pan or blowing on any kind of noisemaker, any rhythm or makeshift instrument will aid in the child’s development.

3. Remember to ask your child how the music makes him or her feel and what he or she believes the composer was thinking when creating the tune. Have your child draw a picture of his or her interpretation of the music or tell you how the music makes him or her feel.

4. Research some of the instruments used in performing classical music and, through directed listening, point out when those instruments sound during the piece.

5. Download one of the myriad apps available such as Vide Infra Group’s “Meet the Orchestra” to generate further interest in music as well as instruments.

6. Surf the Web to find some of the many classical music websites devoted to children. Many of these are associated with major orchestras, like the Dallas Symphony or San Francisco Symphony.

7. Finally, attend a live performance. Rather than spending a lot of money right away, start with a local high school or junior performance. If the interest is there, be sure to keep an eye out for a professional organization’s children’s concert.

A tech refresh: Top reasons to buy a new PC

4/15/2013

(BPT) - At 4 years old, your child is probably adorable. But your 4-year-old PC – not so much. More than 300 million computers around the world are more than 4 years old, including one-third of American PCs, according to research by Intel. Sixty-five percent of those are bulky desktops that are so far behind in terms of technology, they might as well be wooden abacuses.

In just four short years, PCs have evolved to be faster, more powerful and lightweight, easier to use and more versatile. If you find you have plenty of time to brew coffee, prepare your cup, drink it down and start on the next while still waiting for your PC to boot up in the morning, it may be time for a new computer.

Not convinced you need to buy a new PC? Consider these warning signs:

* You spend minutes staring at the spinning hourglass while your PC struggles to download a movie.

* You lug your heavy charger brick everywhere because your PC’s battery won’t hold a charge for more than an hour

* The wires and weight of your bulky PC tie you down to using it in one place.

* Your PC freezes when running too many applications – a problem cited by 36 percent of people who owned older PCs in the Intel study.

* Your PC takes too long to boot up. Thirty-three percent complained of this problem, according to Intel.

Technology is no longer just a tool; for many Americans it’s become an integral part of their lifestyle. Mobile technology makes computing on the go easier than ever, but how do you know what device is right for you?

Technology advancements over the last four years have driven the development of thin, light and powerful PCs. New PCs have powerful processors that make them fast and responsive so things such as photo editing, HD video streaming, and gaming, run best on PCs.

In addition to new PCs, the latest generation of Ultrabook convertibles easily switches from laptop to tablet mode by flipping, folding or twisting the screen, and also have touch capabilities.

If you’re still suffering with an older, slower PC, here are some more reasons to upgrade:

* Today’s Intel-powered PCs are, on average, three times faster than PCs built just four years ago.

* An Intel-powered Ultrabook boots up in less than seven seconds. A 4-year-old PC can take more than a minute.

* Newer PCs weigh an average of about three pounds. Older ones? More than seven pounds.

* Many modern PCs are less than an inch thick.

* Battery life of newer PCs is double that of older models – up to eight hours on a single charge.

* The advent of touch-screen technology and sharper, clearer screen resolution make newer PCs more enjoyable to use.

Still not sure it’s time to buy a new PC? Consider costs. It may seem like everything these days, from gas to milk to cars, costs more. But today’s PCs cost, on average, $200 less than that 4-year-old dinosaur still sitting on your desk. For more advice on how to buy a computer that’s right for your needs, visit intel.ly/10P3O5M for a buyer’s guide.

Making a career move? Consider the insurance field

5/29/2013

(BPT) - Looking to start your career – or change your current one? As you contemplate your next career move, there’s one industry that might not be on your radar: insurance.

“The insurance industry usually isn’t what people think of when they’re planning their careers or considering totally different jobs,” says Charles Valinotti, Head of Underwriting & Product with insurer QBE. “In fact, most people who work in the insurance field will tell you they fell into it by accident.”

Falling into an insurance career can be a good thing, according to CareerCast’s 2013 Jobs Rated Report. Of 200 jobs, actuary ranked No. 1 as the best job of the year. An actuary works for insurance companies and other businesses that manage financial risk. Actuaries use statistics and study uncertain future events – such as accidents and property loss from natural disasters – to set insurance premiums and reserves for paying claims.

Two other insurance jobs ranked among the top 100. Underwriter landed in the 74th position, and insurance agent 78th.

CareerCast’s job ratings are based on factors including income and income growth potential, hiring outlook and physical demands.

Actuaries, underwriters and agents aren’t the only insurance industry jobs available to those exploring employment opportunities. “We take great people and give them great careers,” Valinotti says. “In addition to providing training and professional development, we help open doors and challenge people. No other industry does it as well.”

Insurance companies see the possibilities in all job candidates, he says, regardless of their education level, college major or experience.

“We look for smart people who show they can learn,” Valinotti says. “Those who are articulate, adaptable and good communicators would fit well in the insurance field.”

Insurance has long battled the perception that its jobs are boring or focused solely on sales and claims. Not so, says Valinotti. For example:

Jobs from A to Z – Many college degrees and skills lend themselves well to an insurance career. Your degree in finance, accounting, marketing, human resources, law, IT – even forestry – can land you a challenging position in the insurance field. In addition, job experience and special skills – such as chef, pilot and animal lover – can go a long way in supporting insurance customers’ businesses that include restaurants, airports and pet stores.

A plethora of career paths – Once people have insurance experience under their belts, the sky’s the limit for jumping into other careers the industry has to offer. Valinotti says many insurance employees get their feet wet, then move into other positions to become adjusters, field investigators, product marketers, project managers and loss control consultants. “There are hundreds of different job titles and responsibilities in insurance,” he says. “Most people have no idea what’s available.”

Internships – Even if you don’t see yourself in an insurance career, an insurance-related internship is a great way to try out the industry, use your skills and gain exposure to different business experiences. The knowledge you gain might land you in a career you wouldn’t have otherwise considered.

And, along with its wide array of career possibilities, the insurance industry provides something many others do not – stability. “The need for insurance is not going away. People continue to have lives and property and they have to protect it,” Valinotti says. “A career in insurance allows you to help people when they need it most.”

Survey: More parents pursuing college degrees, talking to children about higher education

4/1/2013

(BPT) - Enhanced earning potential and more career opportunities are two of the many benefits of earning an advanced degree. Now, many mothers and fathers in America have discovered another benefit of going back to school – it is a great parenting tool. Parents are considering higher education not only to help them get ahead in the workplace, but also as a way to set a positive example for their children, according to a recent survey from University of Phoenix.

“I had considered returning to school for some time,” says Janet O’Neal, a production supervisor with an international manufacturing company in Sheridan, Ark. “For me, the decision to earn a bachelor’s degree in business management wasn’t just about advancing my career. My daughters were a huge motivation. I wanted to set a good example for them of how important higher education is.”

O’Neal’s motivation appears to be increasingly common. Parents are twice as likely to go back to school as non-parents, according to the survey, and 46 percent of parents who have plans to head back to school will do so to make their families proud. Eighty-one percent of the parents also said they believe a degree is important in today’s job market.

If parents are considering returning to school, here are a few simple ways to help ensure a rewarding experience for them and their children:

1. Talk to children early – Parents often start saving for a child’s college education when that child is still in elementary school. Why not start talking to them about the importance of higher education at the same time? More teachers are incorporating real-world applications and hands-on learning into their lesson plans, making it even easier for parents to talk to their children about what they are learning.

2. Illustrate education as the path to a career – It is important for children to understand how education can have an impact on their career prospects as adults. Identify learning projects that can help children explore careers and understand how their education can apply to different types of professions.

3. Make education a family affair – Establishing a family study time is a great way for parents and children to connect over a common goal. Seeing a parent display dedication to studying and earning a degree helps children understand the importance of developing a work ethic and setting priorities.

4. Involve other key individuals in the decision, including children – Parents balancing family, work and school obligations can benefit from discussing their educational goals and commitments with influencers in their lives, including employers, friends and family members. This support network can help a parent stay on track with classwork, studying and deadlines. Moreover, children in middle and high school may actually have insights into studying and test preparation that are novel to a parent who has been out of the classroom for some time.

“It is never too early for children and never too late for parents to realize the importance of a post-secondary education,” says Dr. Meredith Curley, dean of the College of Education at University of Phoenix. “Parents who choose to pursue higher education, not only improve their own career opportunities, they model important behaviors such as work ethic and a commitment to learning for their children.”

Avoid the summer slide: 7 fun, brain-stimulating activities for students

5/8/2013

(BPT) - As summer approaches, many parents are worried about the summer learning slide, and with good reason. Students who do not participate in enrichment and learning activities during the summer break can lose roughly 22 percent of the knowledge and skills they gained during the previous school year, according to the National Summer Learning Association.

“This significant loss in knowledge can mean a child may spend the first two months of the new school year playing catch-up,” says Dr. Ashley Norris, assistant dean of the College of Education at University of Phoenix. To avoid the summer slide, Norris says it is important to plan a mix of activities for children during their time off. “Many parents focus on sports and other extracurricular activities over the summer, but parents also need to look for learning opportunities that emphasize math and reading skills.”

Norris, who is also an instructor for teacher preparation courses at University of Phoenix, offers seven fun, educational activities that parents and children can embark on this summer and throughout the year. Not only can these activities help kids avoid the summer slide, but they also provide parents with opportunities to connect with their children.

1. Turn everyday activities into teaching opportunities
Teaching opportunities occur every day in your home or own backyard. To help children grow their math skills, ask them to make the grocery list, go shopping with you and practice adding up the bill and calculating the tax. Then invite children into the kitchen to learn about cooking and practice fractions by measuring ingredients. If you garden, have children help seed and tend to the plants. Study the animals and bugs in your yard, such as birds, squirrels, deer, lizards, worms or lady bugs.

2. Turn learning into an adventure
Look at your city’s community calendar or open the morning newspaper and choose an adventure for the day. Visit the farmers’ market to learn about vegetables. Attend concerts in the park or other community music events, then research the instruments. Head to the local nature center to learn about native plants and then return home and have kids draw what they saw.

3. Embrace technology and create interactive projects and activities
Involve children in digital storytelling by using computer-based tools (video, photos and presentation software). For instance, your children can use family photos and videos to tell a story about summer activities, and you can keep it as a precious memento. Another fun activity pairs technology with the outdoors – geo-caching is a high-tech treasure hunt you can do in just about any city across the country.

4. Focus on core competencies
Book-making is a great way to build reading, writing and research skills. Summer camps help children grow social skills and allow them to gain knowledge at the same time. Look for science and technology camps that provide hands-on learning projects such as bridge building, mouse-trap cars or the construction of robots. Alternatively, do your own research and try these projects at home. Many science museums offer home projects on their websites.

5. Balance academic and social engagement
It is important to give children a balance of activities during their break. Not only does playing with friends provide important social engagement, but it also gives parents insight into how their children learn best. Educational activities can be fun in groups too – your children enjoy both social stimulation and keep their brains buzzing.

6. Summer learning activities do not have to be expensive
Many of the best summer learning activities are free or cost very little. Visit your local public library to borrow books, and pick up an event schedule for story times, art activities, reading clubs and more. Head to a museum during free admission days. Also consider virtual museums, accessed on a home or library computer.

7. Be engaged in your child’s learning
A variety of stimulating activities help children avoid the summer slide, but activities also serve as an opportunity for parents to connect with children on a deeper level. When you find out what interests your child, build an assortment of activities based on those preferences. Then plan activities together and explore those interests. You’ll both enjoy the quality time spent together.

Living life 'in the front row' provides college students with keys to career success

6/10/2013

(BPT) - Location, location, location – it’s an adage real estate professionals live by, but it can also play an important role in an individual’s career success upon graduation from college.

The latest unemployment rates still show those with bachelor’s degrees have a leg up when it comes to getting and staying employed. In 2012, 8.3 percent of people with only a high school diploma were unemployed, compared to only 4.5 percent for those with a bachelor’s degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, students with bachelor’s degrees should only be cautiously optimistic. Facing a stagnant economy and a lean job market, current college students and recent graduates face growing competition in their quest to begin a career. The increasing competition among similarly educated and skilled workers is making it even more important for candidates to rise above the rest.

In 2012, for the first time, a third of the nation’s 25- to 29-year-olds had earned a bachelor’s degree, compared to less than one-fifth of young adults in the early 1970s, according to a Pew Research analysis of census bureau data. This begs the question – what can college students do prior to graduation to stand out among the stiff competition?

"Living life in the front row," during college can help pave the way for long-term career success, according to Jon Vroman, author of “Living College Life in the Front Row” and 2013 Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities College Speaker of the Year.

“We all make the choice whether we are going to be a spectator of life ‘in the back row,’ or a participant of ‘life in the front row,’” says Vroman. “I teach that proximity is power.”

Vroman’s formula for "living life in the front row" can help college students set themselves up for success after graduation – despite the stiff competition. The formula can be broken down into three parts:

Connections are crucial

“Many students are so focused on building relationships with their peers, they often lose sight of developing strong connections with their professors,” says Vroman.

“DeVry University, for example, recruits professors with real-world experience, who often work in fields related to the subjects they teach. Students can learn from people who may either hire them directly, or refer them to someone who can.”

“A college advisor once shared with me the saying, ‘Tell me who your friends are, and I’ll tell you who you are.’ We become like those who we surround ourselves with, and connections formed in college are vital for career growth and development.”

Create your own reality

“For most graduates, their success is in direct proportion to how resourceful they choose to be, inside and outside of school,” says Vroman.

In an increasingly competitive labor market, it’s essential for college students to take advantage of the resources around them that can prepare them for their future.

Utilizing a college or university’s career services department to apply for internship opportunities within your field of study or joining on-campus organizations are just a few of the steps students can take to lay the groundwork toward reaching their career goals.

Make conscious commitments

Career success does not happen overnight, but it can be achieved if you are fully committed to your goals and have done the necessary work to help navigate your way to reaching them.

Before selecting a college or university, students should research the fields they are interested in pursuing to ensure they are in demand.

DeVry University is an example of a school that strives to align its curriculum to the skills demanded by growing industries where its students can find rewarding careers. DeVry works with Fortune 100 companies to ensure graduates are prepared to be successful in current and emerging career fields.

“It’s vital to be fully committed to your career goals,” says Vroman. “Because when you’re committed, you’ll let nothing stand in the way of achieving them.”

The career paths that lead to everyday acts of heroism

5/17/2013

(BPT) - Often, we don’t think about heroism until we see it in action - when disaster strikes and ordinary people exhibit extraordinary courage and compassion to help victims in their time of need. The truth is, however, that the best of human nature is on display every day in the lives of millions of Americans who work in public service jobs across the country. Sometimes all it takes to tap that inner hero is an opportunity – and the education – to serve others.

“People may not realize how broad the opportunities are in public service fields,” says Connie Bosse, vice president of Kaplan University’s College of Public Service. “From law enforcement and emergency responders to teachers and child advocates and behavioral therapists who help children with developmental disabilities, thousands of career options offer people the chance to make a living and help others in a meaningful way.”

Numerous studies on job satisfaction show that workers in a broad range of fields say job satisfaction is important to them. Public service jobs such as firefighting, teaching and therapy consistently rank among the top most-satisfying careers in the General Social Survey conducted by the National Organization for Research.

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate looking for a direction in higher education or an established professional looking for a meaningful career change, public service holds many opportunities. The Kaplan University College of Public Service created a Network of Good video series which highlights alumni and their path to public service. As with any career, it’s important to receive the right training, education and degree to ensure professional success. Here are some degree paths that can lead to public service careers:

* Human services – A bachelor of science in human services can prepare you to work in a variety of fields, including mental health, social services, education, rehabilitation and even the courts. If you already have an associate or bachelor’s degree, you may be eligible for an accelerated degree path.

* Education – Graduate programs are designed to serve educators and instructors at every level, from colleges and universities to K–12 environments. There is also a bachelor in early childhood development that encompasses caring for the educational needs of young children and can extend far beyond the elementary school classroom. This degree can open doors to careers in childcare centers, Head Start programs and other before- and after-school care settings.

* Public administration – Strong leaders are vital to the success of any organization, whether public or private. A master’s in public administration can help you qualify to serve in leadership roles in local, state or federal government agencies, a variety of organizations and nonprofits.

* Homeland security – With natural disasters and terrorist threats making daily headlines, the federal government says demand for professionals qualified to work in homeland security and emergency response roles will increase. A master’s degree in homeland security and emergency management can help you find a career in emergency preparedness and response, border and transportation security, information analysis, homeland defense and more.

For those interested in learning more, there is a wealth of information, inspirational stories and videos about public service professionals at the Center for Public Service, an online information resource center created by Kaplan University. Visit the site at center-public-service.kaplanu.edu.

How organizations can develop diversity in the workplace

3/20/2013

Diversity is a word that can define many characteristics when it comes to hiring employees. Diversity encompasses race, age, gender, cultural background, religious affiliations, sexual orientation and even the ways an employee may apply thoughts to decision-making situations.

Being a “diverse company” is a valued label in today’s business climate. For example, stock values of companies listed in the Fortune magazine top 100 companies for minority workers are positively impacted when the list is released. To stay competitive as a diverse company, businesses often will use a diversity officer to create diversity awareness, recruit women and minorities, promote the idea of a diverse workforce and ensure that the organization operates within all applicable Equal Opportunity Laws.

A Master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology can open career doors for those wanting to enter roles as diversity officers or other related positions The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online-blended Master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology for students who are interested in helping companies create diverse workforces. Within the numerous electives offered by the school, a special diversity elective will prepare students to improve organizational effectiveness and practices in companies.

Students will learn the skills to establish diversity practices, such as:

* Developing strategies for increasing diversity in leadership ranks

* Defining diversity in practical, meaningful and useful terms for all employees at a company

* Identifying important considerations in international staffing

* Designing value-added expatriate programs

* Managing the challenge of balancing conflicting values across cultures

Companies with a diverse workforce have an edge when it comes to competing at the global level. But attaining diversity is more than just meeting number goals. A diversity officer works to build diversity with a team of individuals possessing a blend of strengths and backgrounds that will contribute to the organization’s growth and quality of life in the workplace.

Visit thechicagoschoolonline.net to learn how you can “Unlock Human Potential” with a Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.

Budgeting 101: How new graduates can conquer entry-level income challenges

4/1/2013

(BPT) - Spring is the perfect time for young Americans to take a look at their budgets and become financially fit. Not only is April Financial Literacy Month, complete with nonprofit organizations around the country offering free seminars and online resources, but millions of high school and college students are also preparing for graduation and the next phase of their lives.

But are new grads ready for the financial challenges that lay ahead? The average student loan debt for borrowers in the college class of 2011 was about $26,500, according to a report by the Institute for College Access and Success’s Project on Student Debt. While the National Association of Colleges and Employers projects that 2013 college graduate hiring will increase about 13 percent, budgeting for the start of a new career can be overwhelming. Budgeting money from that part-time job at the mall for movie tickets and other entertainment expenses is quickly replaced by rent, utilities, food and transportation costs as well as student loan payments.

Fortunately, many tools and tips are available for new graduates to get started with budgeting and saving. Microsoft Office offers a free personal budget worksheet to help track income and expenses each month. Several organizations offer free tips for saving money and budgeting on a lower income, which is typical for entry-level jobs.

“Effective budgeting and saving is essential for young adults to reach their personal and professional goals,” says Matt Chevalier, senior vice president for TD Bank. “Being able to afford everyday living expenses, transportation to work, and essential insurance coverage all begins with understanding your income, your expenses and how and where to save money.”

The not-so-obvious expenses

Recent graduates must also prepare for those under-the-radar expenses, such as auto insurance premiums, health insurance contributions and banking costs. While in school, most students can stay on their parents’ or guardians’ auto and health insurance plans, but not long after graduation, they will be required to purchase their own plans, either independently or through their employer.

Student bank accounts can also change soon after graduation, but many banks, such as TD Bank, feature a checking account selector tool that compares checking account options to best fit customers’ needs and help them save money on fees. To help facilitate saving, new grads should set up direct deposit with their employer and connect a savings or money market account to their checking account, automatically transferring a manageable amount from each paycheck to build savings.

“Joining the professional workforce is an exciting and challenging time for young adults, and all the new expenses can seem overwhelming at first,” says Chevalier. “Take it one step at a time, use the tools and resources that are available, and don’t forget to budget for entertainment. Remember, just because you are out of school it doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun.”

Serving God and your country: Be the one service members seek to provide constant spiritual guidance both at home and overseas

2/27/2013

(BPT) - Whatever their backgrounds, beliefs and duties, Sailors have religious needs that must be met while they are answering the call to serve their country. They need guidance, moral support and worship opportunities – services especially critical to help guide them through the challenges of the job and family life.

Establishing religious support for service members isn’t anything new. Back in 1775, the Continental Congress recognized the importance of religion for Sailors, and required that services be held on Continental Congress ships. Later, during World War II, large numbers of civilian clergy stepped forward and enlisted to meet the religious needs of millions serving in the United States Navy. Today, the Navy’s Chaplain Corps consists of active duty and Reserve Chaplains who tend to the spiritual and emotional needs of all military members and their families.

Navy Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists from the Religious Ministry Team are available to meet the religious needs of Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen. The Navy Chaplain Corps is made up of more than 800 Navy Chaplains representing more than 100 different faith groups. All Chaplains are Navy Officers, meaning each holds an important leadership role practicing ministry and providing faith leadership as well as personal advice in a ministry that is truly 24/7. Chaplains live, work, eat and pray with their fellow shipmates and understand their needs and challenges like no one else.

Navy Chaplains are in high demand, and a religious counsel career can be especially rewarding in the military. Whether conducting worship ceremonies on a ship at sea or assisting clergy with religious activities on a base, these men and women are in a unique position to serve their country and fellow service members.

Navy Chaplains have more time to:

* Conduct worship services in a variety of settings
* Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings, funerals and baptisms
* Counsel individuals who seek guidance
* Oversee religious education programs
* Provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and their families
* Train lay leaders
* Advise leaders at all levels regarding morale, ethics and spiritual well-being

In addition to providing religious ministry for overall faith and facilitating all religious requirements for those of different faiths, Chaplains also advise the command to ensure the free exercise of religion.

To train for the Navy Chaplain Corps, five weeks of training at Officer Development School are held in Newport, R.I., followed by seven weeks of Naval Chaplaincy School in Ft. Jackson, S.C. Continued educational opportunities are available through the funded Chaplain Corps Advanced Education Program, and clinical pastoral educational programs are also held. Any student in the process of earning a graduate theological degree could potentially enter the Navy Chaplain Candidate Program as a student.

Visit navy.com to learn more about Chaplain career opportunities and the background required to answer this exciting and important call to serve.

Class of 2013: The future careers of this year's high school graduates

2/12/2013

(BPT) - High school seniors nationwide are preparing to graduate, receiving college acceptance letters and possibly enrolling in a college or university. The challenging economy has made many of these young adults acutely aware of the important role their degree can play when they face commencement once again, this time entering the job market.

Some schools offer degree programs that address the skills required to enter fast-growing fields, such as cyber security, cloud computing, health care and accounting - U.S. News & World Report included accounting in its ranking of 25 Best Jobs in 2012. This strong connection to a promising career path can be attractive to prospective students.

“Knowledge of projected industry growth is extremely helpful as students choose their major or area of study,” says Dr. Chad Kennedy, chair and professor of biomedical engineering technology in the College of Engineering and Information Sciences at DeVry University. “Unlike some career fields where opportunities are shrinking, many technology and engineering fields are expanding at double-digit rates. In fact, many employers can’t find enough qualified applicants to meet their needs.”

Careers in technology are growing up to three times faster than other fields. For students interested in pursuing employment in this thriving industry, ComputerWorld recently outlined the “10 hot IT skills for 2013.” Cloud computing was among the most coveted skills. Though relatively unfamiliar to the average consumer, this data management knowledge drives the services that support many of today’s businesses.

Similarly, cyber security professionals will play an integral role in keeping information safe as the majority of companies’ assets move online. According to Today’s Engineer, the monthly Web publication of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the cyber security field is growing “in leaps and bounds.”

Employment in health care fields is also on the rise. An aging population of baby boomers and expanded access to health care has placed growing pressure on the health care industry to add workers in fields ranging from health information systems and biomedical engineering technology to nursing and ambulatory care.

“Given the sensitive nature of medical data, my role – ensuring data integrity, availability, and security for every current and former patient – is essential and growing in demand,” explains Adam Franzen, a systems administrator at Presence Health Care who holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems from DeVry University. “As health care evolves, so do the technology and management skills that are central to career success in the field.”

The workforce is rapidly evolving; some of the most desired professional roles of yesterday are shrinking today and will become obsolete tomorrow. The class of 2013 will enter emerging career fields, managing the technologies that drive advanced hospital settings, leading development of the next cloud-based application and protecting companies and consumers from cyber and financial fraud alike.

Celebrate the grads in your life with financial gifts

4/29/2013

(BPT) - Do you have a child in your life who will be graduating this spring?

Whether it’s from kindergarten or college, graduation marks the completion of one chapter in a young person’s life and the start of a new adventure. Honor your grad’s achievement by helping him or her save for the future with a digital U.S. Savings Bond.

“Graduation season is a time of celebration and great pride for families. In preparation for this milestone achievement, we encourage parents to consider opening a TreasuryDirect account for their child within their own primary TreasuryDirect account, so the gift of savings bonds can be given by relatives or friends who want to contribute to a young grad’s future,” says Jerry Kelly, national director of the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Ready.Save.Grow. campaign.

Savings bonds are a great gift choice for a child of any age. They’re a low-risk way to save, and offer steady accumulation of interest.

Additionally, interest earned from savings bonds is exempt from state and local income taxes, and may also be exempt from federal income taxes when used to pay for qualified higher education expenses.

If there’s a special child in your life, read on for helpful information about gifting savings bonds.

Opening a TreasuryDirect account

Parents – need help setting up a TreasuryDirect account for your child? If your child is under the age of 18, you’ll first need to establish your own account, then open your child’s account within your account.

TreasuryDirect is the Treasury Department’s secure, online system where you can safely buy, manage and redeem digital savings bonds and other Treasury securities.

Ready.Save.Grow. provides information and tools to help people sign up for a TreasuryDirect account, including a tip sheet and a guided tour, at www.treasurydirect.gov/readysavegrow.

After your TreasuryDirect accounts have been opened, your child is ready to receive digital savings bond gifts for birthdays, graduations and other special events.

Giving a digital savings bond gift

Consider contributing to a child’s college fund or other financial goal with a digital savings bond gift bought through TreasuryDirect.

The first step in giving a savings bond as a gift is having the gift recipient’s name, Social Security number and TreasuryDirect account number.

Ready.Save.Grow. offers resources to help you give a savings bonds gift in TreasuryDirect, including a graphic that walks you through the most important steps. You can also print out a step-by-step tip sheet and watch an overview video. Visit www.treasurydirect.gov/readysavegrow to access these tools.

Commemorating the occasion with a gift certificate

TreasuryDirect.gov offers a variety of themed gift certificates for graduation, birthdays, holidays and other events. Simply print your favorite and present it to the gift recipient in a card or envelope to signify your savings bond gift.

For more information

Ready.Save.Grow. helps people take control of their future by providing information and resources about the safe, affordable savings options offered by the Treasury Department. Visit the Ready.Save.Grow. website, www.treasurydirect.gov/readysavegrow, to learn more or follow the campaign on Facebook or Twitter @ReadySaveGrow.

The preceding information was provided by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Bureau of the Public Debt.

TreasuryDirect is a registered mark of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Ready.Save.Grow. is a service mark of the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

Got student debt? How your credit affects more than just borrowing power

5/23/2013

(BPT) - If you’re a recent college graduate, chances are you left school with more than just a diploma. You’re probably carrying debt, as well. You may already know how debt affects your future borrowing power, but it’s important to also understand how credit impacts other areas of your financial life, as well – such as how easily you’ll be able to rent an apartment when you leave home.

Average student loan debt for the class of 2011 was $26,600, according to the Project on Student Debt at the Institute for College Access & Success. You may also have credit card balances and an automobile loan that all affect your credit record. How you use credit and how much debt you carry will affect many aspects of your life, both financial and personal.

Here’s what recent graduates should know about the impact of credit:

* Your credit score will likely affect your auto insurance rates. If you’ve been insured under your parents’ policy, once you graduate and start your career, you’ll need to get your own coverage. Credit scores are one of the factors auto insurance companies look at when deciding what your premium will be. Although a higher score is no guarantee of a lower premium, a low score may drive your premium up – or even prompt an insurer to deny you coverage.

* Landlords and rental companies will almost certainly want to review your credit before agreeing to rent a home to you. A history of on-time payments and smart credit use can make landlords view you as a good potential renter. Spotty payment history, a high debt load and questionable credit decisions may make you look less desirable. A poor credit history may mean a landlord asks for a larger security deposit from you – or may choose not to rent to you at all.

* When you initiate an account with a utility company such as electric or gas providers, the company will ask to review your credit. Blemishes on your credit report may prompt the utility to ask for a higher security deposit.

* Just like landlords and utility companies, cell phone providers may require a credit check – and a higher deposit if you have poor credit or little or no credit history.

* If you’re considering surgery or a health procedure (such as extensive dental work) that’s not covered by your employer-provided health insurance, you may try to strike a payment deal with the doctor or service provider. A good credit report and score may make the provider more inclined to work with you on a payment plan.

* If you fall in love and plan to get married, it’s unlikely bad credit or high debt will prompt a devoted partner to walk away from your relationship. But studies show that money stress can strain a marriage, and fights over money are a leading cause of divorce. While good credit can’t ensure wedded bliss, starting your marriage with good credit can make many aspects of life easier for you and your spouse.

Understanding how credit affects your financial and personal life is important for everyone, especially recent graduates. Fortunately, online resources like Equifax.com and the Equifax Finance Blog can help you understand credit and how credit reporting and scoring works.

A look inside the criminal justice system: forensic psychology

3/19/2013

Beyond the major players – lawyers, judges, members of the jury and, of course, the defendant and plaintiff – the supporting cast of the courtroom includes many other essential characters. Alternative career options within the criminal justice system range from social service agents and public safety officers, to courtroom witness training professionals. The foundation of a Master’s in Forensic Psychology opens the door to a wide variety of career options relating to the juvenile, civil, and criminal justice system.

The following personal traits will be beneficial to students who are interested in pursuing a career in forensic psychology:

* Observance and attention to detail - Forensic professionals observe and analyze human behaviors and data associated with crime scene investigation.

* Compassion – Forensic professionals are involved in various legal situations with people from all walks of life, ranging from family crisis events and juvenile delinquents to dangerous, high-profile criminals.

* Genuine interest in law and public service – Forensic professionals are often called upon as special witnesses to share their expertise with judges and jurors in the courtroom, they help establish legal reforms or public policies for the government.

* Sound ethics and values – The justice system requires forensic psychology professionals to have strong personal morals and social principles due to their involvement in court proceedings and access to classified information that could potentially influence the outcomes for those involved with a case.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online-blended Master’s in Forensic Psychology. This program is for students interested in preserving individual rights and the justice system through the presentation of unbiased, fact-based analysis of individuals, as well as information associated with a crime. The program is designed to keep up with the latest advancements in the field and is led by experts with a broad range of workplace experiences and diverse perspectives. Students can earn a degree in as little as 20 months, and pursue careers in the justice system, child protection services, civil matters, juvenile justice and many other fields.

Anyone interested in a career that requires good observation skills and an interest in changing lives through the legal system should look into pursuing the online-blended M.A. in Forensic Psychology degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. This degree can open the door to many career opportunities.

How to manage money when you're between jobs

3/19/2013

(BPT) - Though the U.S. economy has been gradually improving, job changes - both involuntary and voluntary - remain a fact of American working life.

“It's also a fact that bills need to be paid whether you're employed or not,” says J.J. Montanaro, a certified financial planner with USAA.

To help you cover expenses and protect your finances as you transition from one job to the next, Montanaro offers these tips.

1. Decide how to collect your final pay

If leaving your job wasn't your idea, your employer may provide a severance package to ease the financial pain. Amounts vary, but one or two weeks of salary for each year you've worked at the company is typical. If you're given a choice of a lump sum or a stream of payments, consider these factors:

* Benefits. If employee benefits (health care, life insurance, long-term care) continue as long as you're receiving payments, you may want to take the option that prolongs them.

* Your financial discipline. Afraid you might squander a lump sum? If your severance payment provides enough cash to justify dividing it up, choosing periodic payments will help keep you in paycheck mode.

2. File for unemployment benefits

If your employer let you go - provided you weren't fired for misconduct - you'll probably qualify for unemployment benefits. If you quit, usually you can collect benefits only if you left for “good cause,” which generally means there was a problem at work or personal situation so difficult that you had no alternative.

If you think you're eligible, don't procrastinate. It may take two to three weeks to process your claim, so contact your state's unemployment office pronto. While each state's program varies, you can generally count on benefits to last 26 weeks, with federally funded emergency unemployment benefits extending up to 73 weeks in some states. Benefits are based on your income and how long you were employed.

If you separated from the military under honorable conditions, you may also be able to claim unemployment benefits through your state of residency. Check with your state department of labor to get the lowdown.

3. Reduce your spending

If your decision to leave was involuntary and your next employment is an unknown, it's important to preserve your cash while you're out of work; this can require a top-to-bottom examination of where your money goes. “This exercise can help keep you afloat today and be an engine for paying off debt and saving once the paychecks start again,” Montanaro says. Put off big-ticket purchases and reduce discretionary expenses as much as possible.

4. Strengthen your emergency fund

Use your severance pay, unemployment benefits and any money you can save to build a cash stockpile. Keep enough money in a savings account to pay at least three to six months' expenses. For a higher interest rate on the rest of your cash, build a short CD ladder or open a variable rate CD. Be careful not to lock away money that you'll need. If you served in the military and made tax-free contributions to the Thrift Savings Plan, you may be able to tap that money without the taxes and penalties associated with most retirement money.

5. Avoid cleaning your financial slate

While you may be tempted to use your severance or other assets to pay off your car, credit cards or other debt, you may be better off making only the required or minimal payments. This strategy can stretch your cash and help you meet living expenses in case a new job isn't right around the corner.

6. Review your health insurance options

At most companies, federal law allows you to keep your employer-provided health insurance for up to 18 months. Prepare for sticker shock: You will be responsible for the entire premium – what you paid, plus any amount your employer paid.

7. Protect your retirement

If you have a 401(k) or other employer retirement plan, avoid the temptation to cash it out when you leave. In addition to jeopardizing your security when you retire, you could pay a steep price in the form of income taxes and penalties. Instead, roll the money over to an IRA or leave it in the employer plan.

Be at the Navy's Hub: operate state-of-the-art nuclear powered vessels

3/7/2013

(BPT) - Maintain equipment used to detect enemy planes and ships. Control steam generators. Operate nuclear propulsion plant machinery. These are just a few of the tasks Sailors aboard Navy aircraft carriers and submarines fulfill in both peace and wartime roles around the world. These Sailors are responsible for operating, controlling and maintaining state-of-the-art nuclear components that power the fleet; the core of the Navy’s ability to operate forward and maintain readiness.

Today’s Sailors continue to make history. They take on tremendous roles and responsibilities such as working to build the Gerald R. Ford, a new class of carriers expected to be delivered in 2015. Aircraft carriers are the centerpiece of the Navy, and the Gerald R. Ford class builds upon the branch’s legacy of aircraft carrier innovation stretching back to the first aircraft carrier, USS Langley (CV 1) and continuing to the present day. The introduction of jet aircraft, angled decks and nuclear power were all innovations that kept the fleet relevant for Cold War needs. Gerald R. Ford continues the aircraft carrier history of modernization and adaptability that will enable her to serve our country for decades to come. Sailors in the nuclear community are involved in maritime security, sea control, deterrence, humanitarian assistance, forward presence and power projection. Submarines and their crews provide attack, surveillance, research and nuclear deterrence roles.

Sailors interested in joining an elite group of professionals who design, build, operate, maintain and manage the Navy’s nuclear-powered ships and submarines can join the Nuclear Officers in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. These officers oversee the nuclear reactors that power the Navy’s vessels, as well as the facilities that support the program’s ongoing training, operations and technology.

The Navy has four specialized Nuclear Officer career paths available for Sailors who are a graduate or student of an accredited college or university in the United States or in a U.S. territory pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree (in the preferred fields of mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry or other technical areas). They must also have completed or be enrolled in a college curriculum that includes a minimum of one year each of calculus-based physics and mathematics through integral calculus. These career paths are:

* Submarine Officer – This position oversees the specialized personnel, departments and missions of Navy attack, ballistic missile and guided missile submarines – taking charge of all that goes into driving, powering, arming, operating and ultimately commanding these stealth vessels.

* Surface Warfare Officer – These specialists oversee the propulsion systems and personnel aboard multibillion dollar, megaton, nuclear-powered aircraft carriers – managing the operational intricacies of the most capable ships on earth.

* Naval Reactors Engineer – These technical experts are responsible for researching, designing and maintaining Naval nuclear reactors across the Navy Fleet – supporting all the activities involved with ongoing operations and personnel training.

* Naval Nuclear Power School Instructor – Be one of the select few who learn and then teach the fundamentals of nuclear propulsion – guiding Navy understudies through a comprehensive curriculum, encompassing everything from science to math, electrical engineering to reactor dynamics.

Other nuclear power careers are available for Sailors with a high school diploma or GED. These Nuclear Operations personnel operate, control and maintain the state-of-the-art components that power Navy aircraft carriers and submarines, doing anything from operating nuclear propulsion plant machinery to controlling auxiliary equipment that supports Naval reactors to maintaining the electronic equipment used to send and receive messages, detect enemy planes and ships and determine target distance.

Jobs available for nuclear-trained specialists include:

* Machinist’s Mate (MM) – These specialists work on the mechanical side of everything related to propulsion and power-generating systems.

* Electrician’s Mate (EM) – EM’s work on the electrical side of everything related to propulsion and power-generating systems.

* Electronics Technician (ET) – An ET works with the electronic equipment related to maintaining reactor safety and control.

Visit navy.com to learn more about Nuclear Operations career opportunities and the background required to serve.

Want to get paid to go to the gym? Become a personal trainer

2/6/2013

(BPT) - One upside to the burgeoning obesity epidemic is that it’s fueling the growth of jobs in the fitness industry.

Whether you’re one of those people in need of a personal trainer or you’re looking for work in a dismal job market, the bureau of labor statistics reports “employment of fitness trainers and instructors is expected to grow by 24 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations.”

According to Jeff Rosga, director of education at Life Time Academy, the training and certification organization for Life Time – The Healthy Way of Life Company, weight loss is a primary driver for people who seek out a personal trainer. “There is a very large population of boomers with the economic means to hire a personal trainer,” he adds. “Their requirements are substantial; they want a high-quality experience in training as well as in-depth knowledge. Some are injured, have functional issues, or simply want to be more physically active, and need assistance in learning how to overcome their challenges.”

Demand for personal training is also getting a boost as businesses and insurance companies see the relationship between healthier employees and lower health care costs by persuading employees and members - by virtue of various incentives - to get fit.

Phyllis Soltis, 59, from Lakeville, Minn., has worked in administration and was even a police officer at one time. She was drawn to personal training while a member of Life Time Fitness, where she lost 70 pounds. “All the jobs I’ve had involved working with people,” Soltis says. Exercise, too, had always been a part of her life, and as she considered what sort of job change she could make at her age, she turned to personal training and applied to Life Time Academy.

Choosing the right certification program matters. “When you earn a certification you are directly linked to the certification body,” says David Van Daff, vice-president of business development and public affairs with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). “The reputation of the certification, both positive and negative, will impact how you are perceived as a fitness professional.”

Choosing the right personal training certification can be confusing says Van Daff, who recommended the following considerations when choosing a program:

1. Industry standards: Earning a certification that is not accepted by respected employers is a waste of time and money. Contact local fitness centers and ask what certifications they accept. If a certification is not universally accepted, don’t buy it.

2. Curriculum/faculty: What you study and learn in a certification program should have practical application. In addition, research the credentials and reputation of the faculty. Evaluate their background, accomplishments, testimonials and contributions to the industry.

3. Advanced specializations: Most successful personal trainers specialize in a particular area. Investigate what specialty credentials and certifications are offered by the certification organizations you are considering.

4. References: Ask a manager at a fitness facility which certifications best prepare new personal trainers. Having managed personal trainers with varying certifications and education backgrounds, they can provide insight into the value of various certification programs.

A 2012 NASM study found that certified personal trainers who were not previously employed in the fitness industry, on average found employment in less than one month. That was true for Soltis, who graduated from Life Time Academy in December and was immediately employed at Life Time Fitness in Eagan, Minn. Soltis says one of the benefits at Life Time Academy were the weekly in-club labs, something not offered by many other programs. The 120 hours of hands-on experience allowed her the confidence to go from student to trainer seamlessly.

“I have specialty certifications through the Academy’s partnership with NASM in corrective exercise and performance enhancement,” Soltis says. Other partners include Yoga Alliance, American Council on Exercise, and Peak Pilates. She said she plans to use her knowledge in power lifting training and competitions to attract a clientele of “women of a certain age” who want to strength train. “Weight loss is a big one too, because of my own experience. I understand it from a personal perspective,” she adds.

Pay for noncertified personal trainers range from $18,000-$31,000. As a graduate of Life Time Academy Soltis knows she can expect to eventually earn more than $40,000 a year and the possibility to make more than she has in other jobs. “I see the potential to make more because there are no limits. It’s like being in business for yourself, but not by yourself.”

A year-end report card on school cafeterias: Did they make the grade for improved nutrition?

4/25/2013

(BPT) - Have school cafeterias made the grade when it comes to revising and changing school menus to meet the new USDA nutrition guidelines? Many health experts say yes, giving the country's more than 17,000 school districts an “A” for their efforts to add new recipes and more fruits, vegetables and whole grains to their weekly menus.

The new nutrition guidelines require schools to offer an increased variety of fruits and vegetables every day of the week – many of them nutrient-rich dark green, red or orange varieties. At least half the grains served need to be whole grain-rich foods, and milk must be fat-free or low-fat. In addition, there is a greater focus on reducing saturated fat, trans fats and sodium, and an adjustment of calories served based on the age of the children.

“So many good things are happening inside schools, because of these new standards and also because there’s a commitment by a growing number of people to serve kids healthful foods at school,” says Susan Moores, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant who works with schools in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

According to Moores, it takes not only food service directors to create a great cafeteria, it takes a team of people including a school’s administration, food suppliers and even local farmers. “It’s worth every cent we invest in delivering healthful food. Eating well supports better brain power,” she says.

School foodservice directors have developed creative ways to help students embrace the new menus. Lunch is an important and nutritious meal during students’ busy school days, and so it was important that new foods were both flavorful and appealing.

An essential element of the process has been education – students and their families needed to understand what the changes were and why they were being made. This included community open houses with families for menu sampling, written communications sent home or available online, fun and informative cafeteria signage, and cafeteria food tastings. It has been an ongoing conversation with students throughout the year.

Incorporating more vegetables and whole grains has been an objective for all schools. Brenda Padilla, nutrition services manager for Sacramento City Unified School District, is responsible for more than 40,000 meals a day. Through menu testing, Padilla learned that her students would choose julienned red, green and yellow peppers, helping to meet the new vegetable requirements. The peppers could be used in the salad bar that’s offered in each of her schools as well as in the signature house salad she developed, available at every register.

At most Sacramento area high schools, students can choose grilled peppers and other vegetables, prepared on outdoor grills. “We’ve piloted a fajita grill concept this year, using whole grain tortillas. It’s a great way to incorporate a variety of grilled vegetables,” Padilla says. Students here echo preferences heard across the country for increased seasonings and spice, making fajitas a great option.

Familiar foods are still available in lunch lines across the country. Foodservice directors have discovered kid-friendly whole grain-rich favorites like pizza that meet the new guidelines. For instance, Big Daddy’s (R) 51 percent whole grain cheese pizza from Schwan’s Food Service is a great platform for providing high quality protein, calcium, potassium and fiber, with only 310 calories. Weekly menus that blend new and familiar flavor options, all meeting the new guidelines, have helped students adapt to the new offerings.

And while schools embraced the changes, there were challenges as well. Soon after school was underway in the fall, foodservice directors began to hear from high school students that they were feeling hungry. The USDA responded by lifting the limits for proteins and breads for the balance of the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 school years, giving schools the opportunity to increase the serving portions for some of its nutrient-rich items.

So as the school year comes to a close, high marks are awarded to school cafeterias and foodservice directors for the implementation of these new guidelines and an ongoing commitment to providing great nutrition.

“These new guidelines provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase what we can offer to our students in our communities,” says Padilla.

Tips for managing your career on social media

5/22/2013

(BPT) - Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, at some point you’ll likely find yourself searching for a new job. And as you start your job search, it’s important to understand the impact your use of social media may have on your career.

The hard truth: You can’t be too cautious when it comes to participating in social media. According to a 2012 CareerBuilder.com survey, 37 percent of employers check sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter in their research of candidates. And the employer scrutiny of social media takes on a whole new dimension for many once on the job as a growing number of employers are establishing policies about the use of social media on and off the clock for their employees.

The clash between employee use of social media and employers has come to a head with the dramatic rise in the number of legal cases involving employees and their use of the Internet both on and off the job, according to FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading website for free legal information.

“The photos and comments you post on social media websites can follow your career for years to come,” says Solomon Gresen, an employment law attorney with the Law Offices of Rheuban & Gresen in Los Angeles. “When you start posting online, you create a digital trail that’s available for all to see – including current and future employers. And, in many ways, what you post remains forever.”

In one case, an employee was fired when she posted photos of herself dancing and throwing a Frisbee at a festival on her Facebook profile. Why? She was on a temporary leave and claimed she was in severe pain from an old back injury.

“I would strongly urge parents to talk to their high school- and college-age children about the importance of building a reputable online presence,” adds Gresen. “One careless Facebook post or inappropriate tweet could wind up damaging your reputation and negatively impacting your career potential.”

Here are some additional tips from FindLaw.com on how to avoid career-limiting social media mistakes:

Ask about your company’s social media policies. With more companies adopting social media policies, educating yourself is key. If there aren’t any policies at your workplace, it’s best to use common sense.

Search yourself. Want to check out what your potential or current employer may see about you online? Do a search of your name on any of the leading search engines to get a snapshot of how you appear digitally to others. If you see any red flags, manage them right away – or be prepared for the situation should an employer bring it up with you.

Complete your LinkedIn profile. Many recruiters search LinkedIn for candidates. This is one place to put your best foot forward and attract employers. Don’t treat it as an online resume with every career detail – just include highlights of your work history and accomplishments.

Don’t lie or exaggerate your work experience. The Internet offers employers the opportunity to corroborate information you claim about yourself. Therefore, it’s wise to not lie or exaggerate on your resume or LinkedIn profile.

Avoid sharing sensitive work-related information. Don’t share privileged or confidential information about your company or customers. It could put your career and the company at risk.

Don’t vent about work. Don’t complain about your boss. Don’t gripe about how boring work is. Don’t play hooky and then post photos about your incredible day off. Always assume that someone from your company may be watching what you say or post.

Be careful about what photos you share. With smartphone cameras connected directly to social networks, photos can easily be posted without a second thought. Photos of you participating in inappropriate or risky behavior can quickly tarnish your professional reputation. Employers want employees who mirror company values. If they’re looking for ways to quickly whittle down a large pool of candidates, this is one of them.

Be cautious about who you connect with. In the world of business you’re known by the company you keep. The same rule applies to social media. Everything you like on Facebook or follow on LinkedIn or Twitter factors into your online reputation.

Use your privacy settings. Want to limit some of the problems mentioned and put space between your personal and professional life? Adjust your privacy settings. Many social media platforms have controls that allow you to fine-tune how your information and posts are displayed.

To learn more about employment law, visit FindLaw.com.

Nurses lead revolution toward improved health care delivery

4/16/2013

(BPT) - The health care industry has evolved since a series of sweeping legislative reforms began to take effect in 2010. New policies and regulations, millions of new patients and the introduction of advanced technology have added pressure to an already complex system. As this transformation continues, health care leaders are keeping an eye on how the system is functioning to ensure these changes fuel improved health care delivery.

The health care system is comprised of teams working with and among each other within the same “universe.” The core of the health care universe is the patient, and the group of people working directly with the patient to provide care – from friends and family to nurses and physicians – is called the “microsystem.” In recent years, this microsystem has become the focus of much research and discussion, as its successful function directly impacts the delivery of care.

A new revolution toward these improvements is being led by Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degrees. Nurses with this advanced level of education have the knowledge to understand and apply research in the clinical setting to provide greater patient safety and continuous quality improvement.

“Doctorally prepared nurses are at the core of a revolution in health care,” says Dr. Carole Eldridge, director of graduate programs for Chamberlain College of Nursing. “By applying research to solve problems, these nurses are reducing costs and increasing health care quality, which in turn improves patient outcomes and transforms health care delivery.”

Chamberlain offers a DNP degree program focused on clinical practice and implementing solutions within the patient microsystem. The post-master’s professional degree program is designed to give experienced nurses the advanced education necessary to assume leadership roles in health care.

APRNs with DNP degrees are becoming increasingly valuable to employers, and the degrees are bringing these nurses rewarding career options and, in some cases, higher salaries. In fact, nurse practitioners with DNP degrees earn on average $7,316 more annually than those with master of science in nursing degrees.

This trend illustrates the expanding role nurses play within the health care system. The Institute of Medicine recommends nurses become full partners with physicians and other health care professionals in redesigning health care in the United States, according to its 2010 report, "The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health." As the largest segment of the nation’s health care workforce, nurses are uniquely positioned to drive the quality improvements necessary for its successful transformation.

Where an associate degree in nursing was once the standard for registered nurses, a bachelor of science in nursing degree is quickly becoming preferred, if not required, by employers. Similarly, as the health care universe grows and becomes more modernized, industry leaders will look to APRNs with DNP degrees to increase efficiencies and lower costs within the microsystem.

Seven rules for keeping your job search on track

5/1/2013

(BPT) - The economy is starting to turn around, but competition for open jobs remains fierce. For job hunters, the mental and financial stresses mount every day they remain unemployed. To keep job-search momentum high and attitudes positive, it’s important to follow a few simple steps from the experts.

“Hunting for a job can quickly start to feel like a never-ending journey,” says employment expert Chasity Trzop, Regional Director of Career Services at Brown Mackie College – Louisville. “As America emerges from the Great Recession, early signs of job growth are appearing, but there is still unprecedented competition when it comes to finding employment.”

If you’re looking for a job, follow Trzop’s top seven rules for job searching and you’ll put yourself on the fast track to employment:

Rule No. 1: Get offline and score some face time

“When I talk with graduates who are discouraged, the first question I ask is, ‘What are you doing?’ Many times they’re on the computer applying online as a primary form of job searching,” says Trzop. While the computer can be instrumental, a good job search utilizes additional tactics. In addition to passive job search tactics, such as doing online applications where there is heavy competition, also incorporate activities such as face-to-face informational interviews.

Rule No. 2: Treat job searching like a job

While working with graduates, Trzop reminds them that searching for a job is a job in itself, and should be treated as such. A good rule of thumb is to do 10 things each day in support of your job search. “Five of those things can be done online, like finding and applying for jobs, and writing emails to strengthen your career network. The other five things should be personal contact with people who may be able to help,” says Trzop.

Rule No. 3: Join professional associations and network

Students at Brown Mackie College - Louisville learn the importance of building professional networks, and the same holds true for any job hunter. The affiliations are indispensable when searching for employment. Attending association functions or business open houses puts you in front of people who may be hiring. “No one knows how wonderful you are if you’re hiding behind your computer,” Trzop says.

Rule No. 4: Volunteer or apprentice without pay

Volunteering to work without pay may sound like the antithesis of job searching, but in reality it’s a great way to make connections and prove your worth. “Offer your service to someone in the field you want to enter. Ask if you can shadow him or her for a few days,” Trzop recommends. “Who wouldn’t want free labor? If he or she says no, you move on to the next opportunity.” Trzop has seen graduates and students be so effective while volunteering that companies have created positions for them.

Rule No. 5: Volunteer for community service

While unemployed it’s easy for days to flow into weeks to flow into months. Stop the snowball effect and make productive use of your time every day. “Volunteer for any type of community service that interests you,” Trzop says. It provides numerous benefits. It gets you out of the house and introduces you to new people. “You never know when you’ll meet someone who may be hiring. The experience also looks great on a resume, and can fill gaps in employment,” she says.

Rule No. 6: Use the phone to your best advantage

Trzop tells graduates to keep in touch. For example, after meeting people in your industry of interest, call them to solidify the relationship. Ask for information on which companies may be hiring. These ongoing relationships will serve you well throughout your career, but especially while job searching.

Rule No. 7: Use social websites to your advantage

“More and more people are turning to social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn in their searches for employment,” says Trzop. “The websites make it easy to connect with others who share your interests.” Make sure you keep your profiles and conversations professional, and stay up-to-date on industry happenings, so conversations reflect your intelligence and enthusiasm for your career.

Reinvent yourself: How to start your own (creative) business

5/7/2013

(BPT) - Many graduates in creative fields like graphic design, interior design or Web design are opting to start their own businesses. This is because recent figures show only a slight reduction in the unemployment rate, and job growth is at its lowest in six months. So, how can you make your business a success?

Bruce McCain, director of career services for The Art Institute of Tampa, a branch of Miami International University of Art & Design, and Kathleen Holland, director of career services for The Art Institute of Charleston, a branch of The Art Institute of Atlanta, share five essentials they identified as success factors in starting a business.

1. Self-assess and research. It is imperative that you are honest with yourself and truly understand what you are good at and what you enjoy doing. Doing a SWOT analysis (a way to analyze Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) is a great way of assessing that.

2. Know your niche. A business plan is highly recommended to help identify both those industries with a need for your services and your competition. This exercise will also help identify whether there might be a smaller and important niche market where your business can focus and be profitable.

“If you’re a graphic designer, will you be a generalist, offering services to all types of industries, or do you have specialized experience handling retailers that you can build on?” asks McCain.

Knowing your niche will enable you to develop a consistent brand identity in every aspect of your business. The business plan also sets the goals and objectives that will guide many of your decisions.

3. To incorporate or not to incorporate. Many students in creative fields are familiar with taking on freelance work while still in school. But after graduation, it is important to formalize the business. It’s a good idea to invest in some legal and accounting advice to help you make the best decision about incorporation. There are significant advantages and disadvantages to each type of business structure.

4. Develop a stream of business. New business owners often envision being successful within a short period of time. Developing and building a business from the ground up takes time, energy and hard work, but it can be very rewarding. The industry research you did for your business plan will come in handy in determining what a realistic rate of growth means for your industry and area.

5. Network, network, network.

“I can’t stress enough the importance of networking,” says Holland.

Networking may be your only means of marketing for quite some time – it is important to get in front of as many people as possible and give them your “elevator pitch” (a quick story about your business that you can say in 90 seconds or less). When meeting each person, make sure you take his or her business card; this comes in handy when writing a “nice to meet you” note the next day.

“Yes, you should write a quick note to each person you meet. In this note, you should mention where you met them, refer to your conversation, and remind them what your business does and how it can be helpful to them,” Holland says.

It takes a lot of hard work to be a creative business owner and there are no shortcuts to success. So put in the time to reap the rewards.

Getting organized: Learn your style and find solutions that work for you

3/11/2013

(BPT) - Resolving to reduce clutter and get better organized seems to be a lingering item on many people’s “to-do” lists, yet for many of us, it can be difficult to get started. While organization is an essential tool for navigating our complex modern lives, many people struggle to find their personal style of organization and a system that works within their busy lives at home, at the office or on-the-go. Just as specific organizational needs vary from person to person, so too do organizational styles.

“It’s important to understand your own personal style of organization,” says Melanie Charlton, organizational expert, product designer and founder of Clos-ette. “What works to help one person get organized may be frustrating for another. By defining your personal style, you can better identify tactics and tools that will work to keep you on track both personally and professionally.”

Unsure how to assess what style of organizing works for you? The Post-it Brand offers the Do More Your Way online organizational style quiz to help you classify your organization style. Through a series of questions, the quiz helps users determine which of five organizational styles best suits their personalities and helps to identify organization solutions to fit their needs.

Conductors organize by “leading” information and documents into a cohesive operation, much as a musical conductor does. Implementers attack organization with a specific goal in mind, such as getting organized for a job search. Curators keep everything and need a system that allows them to quickly reference archived material. Improvisers organize outside the box and are constantly looking for new tools to aid in organization or new ways to use familiar tools. Gatherers like to have all their work materials close at hand and put their emphasis on organized filing systems.

Once you’ve identified your organizational style, focus on these key areas where most of us need help at home, in the office and on the go:

At home

Whether or not your family removes their shoes upon entering the house and leaves miscellaneous keys, mail, loose change and other items by the door, entryways are a primary target for accumulated clutter.

Assess the type of clutter in your entryway. Is it made up of items that have a legitimate right to be near the door – your shoes and car keys, for example - or are there things that should live in another part of your home, such as mail (in your home office), loose change (in a coin jar) and sporting equipment (in the garage)? Decide what belongs and remove and relocate things that do not. Invest in organization and storage solutions such as a key rack that can hang on the wall by the door or a shoe rack where your family can neatly store their shoes upon entering the home to reduce clutter in the foyer.

In the office

We live in a digital world, but paper remains a reality for most office settings. Taming paper is a top objective of organizational efforts for many of us.

To organize the flow of documents in your office, consider adopting the “one touch” policy. When a piece of paper lands on your desk, touch it just once – long enough to decide its appropriate home, and then put it there immediately. Avoid making stacks of paper that you intend to look at and assess later; that’s how clutter evolves. Instead, use an in-box for documents that you haven’t yet reviewed and an active box for things you’re currently working with. Anything that doesn’t fit in either box should get filed immediately with appropriate labeling.

On the go

For many of us, work life is no longer confined to the office – especially for busy working parents. Whether you are running from meeting to meeting or on the road, make sure you have all the essentials for working efficiently and productively while on-the-move.

Products from the Post-it Mobile Attach and Go Collection, a new line of products designed for more efficient and effective organization on the go, can help mobile workers stay on track. Designed to stick, insert or clip to items you carry, Post-it Mobile Products work seamlessly together for a customizable on-the-go organization system. For example, the Post-it Mobile Attach and Go Pockets come in three different sizes and stick to the outside of laptops, iPads, notebooks and planners. Not only do they hold essential miscellaneous items such as important papers, receipts, bills, office supplies and more in one convenient location, but they are also translucent so you can easily see the contents while on the move. They also stick securely, but remove cleanly, so you can re-use or move them as needed.

“Today, more than ever before, people are on the move for their work and personal lives,” Charlton says. “No matter how busy your career, family life or daily routine, it’s important to find organizational tools that are versatile and convenient to help you create an organizational system adapted to your lifestyle.”

Online college courses connect students digitally

5/13/2013

Universities are taking online degrees to a whole new level, giving college students opportunities and experiences that are not often found in a traditional college classroom.

Online education has become a desirable choice of study at colleges and universities. More students are pursuing online degrees than in previous years. Millions of students are taking advantage of online education to fulfill academic opportunities and achieve professional success previously unavailable with traditional forms of study.

Catering to these students in a virtual setting requires customization of programs, something George Washington University’s School of Business is doing with its connected Digital Community. This Digital Community creates classroom conversations that might not be available in the traditional classroom setting; for example, connecting business students with mentors working in Shanghai, or having an alum share business management tips from an office in Los Angeles. These business programs are 99 percent online, allowing students to study anywhere – on campus, in a study abroad setting or while already employed – and connecting them to the same professors teaching the classroom courses.

“How business schools are connected to what society needs, what the issues of society are and what governments are doing is the future of business education,” says Doug Guthrie, dean for George Washington School of Business.

Developing a Digital Community opens doors for students to understand business on a deeper level, not only in the nation’s capital where George Washington University is located, but also the world. Master degrees offered by the GWSB: Digital Community include an MBA, project management, tourism and information technology systems.

What’s exceptional about this online program is that students do have the opportunity to spend time on campus in Washington, D.C., just blocks from World Bank, International Monetary Fund, White House Executive Offices and the State Department, immersing them in the middle of the operating business world.

Other online programs across the country are also promoting community connections. Some universities subscribe to a peer-review program of quality insurance for continuous improvement in online education and student learning. These programs assure students that the universities are incorporating meaningful interaction between students, course learning and real world experience.

Globalization brings opportunities and efficiencies in higher education. It creates complex networks and builds international bridges. It allows for knowledge sharing on a grand scale and for deeper connection. It also permits universities to transform themselves from the narrow confines of their own communities to compete globally. In short, it ups their game.

“We can now really draw globally for ideas, mentorship and conversation in order to bring about deeper learning,” says Dr. Liesl Riddle, associate dean for the George Washington School of Business.

Is your career fit for the summer?

5/28/2013

(BPT) - Summer isn’t just the time to get your body in shape; it’s a good time to get your career in shape as well. Just as we evaluate the condition of our bodies each year before donning our shorts and bathing suits, we should make a habit of assessing our careers. After all, you are the CEO of your career, the one who guides the way.

The career-focused website CareerCast.net concurs, citing career fitness as “a key to sustained employment.” “Think of it as working strong,” says Chasity Trzop, regional director of career services at Brown Mackie College - Louisville. Here, she shares her knowledge of career building to help you keep yours in shape for the future.

Know who you are and what you want

"Think of yourself as a brand,” Trzop states. “Write down your core principles in the same way a company develops a mission statement.”

These attributes identify who you are and provide a creed to live by. Understanding yourself in this way can help to keep you grounded and prevent flip-flopping in decision making. “We tend to make better decisions when they are based on our core principles,” says Trzop.

Revisit your professional goals

To what level do you wish to rise in your career? Advancement doesn’t just happen. Those who are promoted put effort into the accomplishment. In fact, salary.com reports that those who clearly write down professional goals and plans to accomplish them achieve a greater level of success than those who do not. While it’s good to have long-term goals, it is important to create short-term goals that can be achieved more readily.

“Short goals help keep you better motivated,” says Trzop. The career resource website, careerinfo.net, offers a worksheet to guide you through the process of setting goals. Knowing where you want to go and how to get there makes you a proactive participant in the process.

Define your career path

“Developing your career is a fluid process,” says Trzop. “Some people reason, if I do these things, I will get this. If I do other things, I can get that. Simply checking things off a list doesn’t make your abilities better. Promotions are not based solely on seniority. Management evaluates skill level and capabilities.”

Trzop suggests volunteering to do the work of others while they are on vacation. “Being proactive shows the boss you can do it. Ask for feedback about your performance to make sure you are doing everything the new work entails,” she says.

Embrace change

Gone are the days when one will stay with the same company for 30 years. Just because you have a job today, doesn’t mean that you will have one tomorrow. It could be that you find a new opportunity; it could be that your employer decides to cut costs by downsizing. Either way, it’s easier to hit the ground running when you’re prepared to pursue your next opportunity.

“Keep an eye on industry changes and trends,” advises Trzop. “Technology changes things. If you sit too long content with what you already know, you will fall behind the curve.” It never hurts to take a class to master new software and its uses.

Revitalize your network connections

Don’t just belong to a professional organization, attend the events and participate! Every gathering of professionals offers the opportunity to reinforce your place in your industry.

“People tend to come away from conferences and professional presentations energized with fresh ideas,” says Trzop. “These are good places to swap ideas and find out about other work places.” Introduce yourself to seasoned professionals in your industry. “They offer a wealth of information,” Trzop says. “Offer help when you can, and ask for advice if you need it. The experience may make you happier in being a part of the industry as a whole.”

Staying at the top of your game

4/17/2013

(BPT) - We feel our best when we do our best. At the top of our game is where we all want to be. This is as true in the workplace as it is on the basketball court. But to stay at the top of your game at work and in life, you need to stay primed – ready for that next big play. It requires staying alert; keeping your skills sharp; and hearing your best. That’s right – hearing your best.

Listening doesn’t typically come to mind as a highly coveted job skill. But the truth is, listening is one of the top skills employers look for in those being promoted, according to the International Listening Association. Both business practitioners and academics identify listening as one of the most important skills for an effective professional. Individual performance in an organization directly relates to listening ability or perceived listening effectiveness. And good listening skills are even tied to effective leadership.

So if being at the top of your game – especially on the job – is what you’re after, pay attention to your hearing. Hearing your best is the first step to good listening skills. And good listening skills help pave the way to success.

For those with hearing loss: Be encouraged. Today’s modern, sleek, and virtually invisible hearing aids can help the vast majority of people with hearing loss. In fact, the days of letting unaddressed hearing loss stand in your way are long gone – and good riddance to them! Hearing aids, other forms of amplification, and even modest workspace accommodations enable almost everyone to hear their best so they can do well on the job. Today’s hearing aids are digital, wireless, and can be as discreet or as stylized as you choose. They allow you to hear from all directions and in all sorts of sound environments so you can more easily discern what people are saying.

So whether you’re a mechanic, a plumber, a nurse, a teacher, a C-suite executive, a police officer, a customer service representative, an attorney, or in any line of work, there are hearing-aid technologies and other approaches to dealing with hearing loss that can help. And remember: You are not alone. Roughly 60 percent of Americans with hearing loss are in the workforce overcoming the very same challenges you are.

Research shows that hearing aids really do help. A study by the Better Hearing Institute found that using hearing aids reduced the risk of income loss by 90-to-100 percent for those with milder hearing loss, and from 65-to-77 percent for those with severe to moderate hearing loss. What’s more, people with hearing loss who use hearing aids are nearly twice as likely to be employed as their peers who do not use hearing aids. And eight out of 10 hearing aid users say they’re satisfied with the changes that have occurred in their lives specifically due to their hearing aids. From how they feel about themselves to positive changes in their work lives, relationships and other social interactions, hearing aid users are benefiting from today’s technology.

Face it. You’ve got too much game in you to slow down now. So play at the top of your game. Stay at the top of your game. Make an appointment with a hearing healthcare professional and learn how you can hear your best today.

To take a free, quick and confidential online hearing check to determine if you need a comprehensive hearing test by a hearing healthcare professional, visit www.hearingcheck.org. For more information on hearing loss, visit www.BetterHearing.org. Download "Your Guide to Buying Hearing Aids" - a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect, ask and look for when visiting a hearing healthcare professional and purchasing a hearing aid - at www.BetterHearing.org under publications.

How to ace your next job interview

3/25/2013

(BPT) - Making it to the job interview stage means your skill set and resume have caught the interest of a potential employer, who now wants to determine if you’ll be a good fit as an employee of a company. Acing the interview is essential if you want to convince the employer that you’re the right person for the job.

“Employers are open to bringing in several candidates for job interviews, and this is the time for both the employer and the candidate to determine if they will be a good fit for each other,” says Joe Seitz, director of career services at Everest Institute-Grand Rapids. “The goal for the candidate is to receive a job offer, and the goal for the company is to find the perfect person for the job.”

Seitz and Everest Institute offer these tips to ensure that you walk away from your job interview and receive either a call back for a second interview or a job offer:

Practice makes perfect

Hundreds of websites provide traditional job interview questions, so think about what kind of answers you’d give for these questions. For example, “What is your worst quality?” could be turned into an opportunity to show your future employer you identify your faults, but are able to recognize opportunities to improve, with examples of how you’ve already taken steps in this direction. Employers ask these kinds of questions in many different ways, so think of actual examples and prepare mini-sound bites to describe your skills.

Be yourself

Although the interview is a great time to sell yourself to a potential employer, be careful not to go overboard. Embellishment may be tempting – particularly for young graduates – but employers want to know what you’ve really done. Communicate any career training you have and how it relates to the position.

“New graduates have a lot going for them, even if they don’t have a lot of experience,” says Seitz. “They can bring fresh ideas to the company, and are trainable to perfectly match what the company needs.”

Be yourself, and in cases where you lack experience, display a willingness and desire to learn the necessary skills.

Every interaction counts

Anyone you encounter within proximity to the interview setting can have a direct influence on its outcome. Having a positive and respectful attitude creates a more welcoming environment all around you and sets you up for success during the interview.

“Smile, be polite and greet every person you meet, from the moment you get into your car to drive to the interview to the time you arrive home,” says Seitz. “You never know when the person standing in line in front of you at the coffee shop prior to your interview could very well be the person you interview with later in the afternoon.”

Follow-up

Good follow-through is important and shows a potential employer that a candidate cares about the opportunity. Be sure to send a note to everyone who interviewed you thanking them for their time and consideration. Remember the interview is a formal process, so hand-write a thank-you note and send it through the mail.

Enhance your skills

Schools like Everest Institute cater to the demands of non-traditional students by offering fast-track programs, flexible classes and online education programs in popular fields, such as health care and accounting, allowing students to work or interview for jobs while enhancing their skills in the meantime.

Americans concerned about outliving their money

5/22/2013

(BPT) - What concerns Americans the most as they look ahead toward the retirement years? One of their biggest worries is outliving their money, according to a recent survey by Prudential Retirement. A substantial 71 percent of survey respondents fear they may not have enough retirement income to last a lifetime. Only one in five are highly confident they will have sufficient retirement income.

Putting money aside for retirement while you are still working is important, but it’s only part of the solution. Equally important is to have a plan on how to manage your retirement nest egg so it will continue to generate income throughout your life. The pros at Prudential Retirement have some suggestions on how to help make that happen.

Develop a plan on how to use savings

Sri Reddy, head of Institutional Income for Prudential Retirement, advises people nearing retirement to begin shifting their focus from accumulating savings to considering how best to distribute those savings during retirement.

“A critical first step in meeting the new retirement challenge is to develop a plan on how to use your savings to generate income throughout your life,” says Reddy. “Take the same approach as you did with saving – plan ahead.”

One avenue to explore is to check with your employer to see if there is a guaranteed income option available in your company’s retirement plan. Two out of three participants in the Prudential Retirement survey said investing in this type of option made them more confident about their retirement security.

Continuing to work part-time may be a necessity in order to generate needed income for your retirement budget. According to the Prudential survey, nearly three in four middle-class Americans believe they will have to find some work in retirement.

Check out possibilities now for part-time employment. Don’t wait until after retirement.

Cut costs before retirement

Once you have a plan in place to generate lifetime income, look at how to cut expenses after you retire. One of the best ways to stretch your retirement savings may be to reduce housing costs, which are a major expense for most Americans.

If your kids are out of the house and your mortgage is paid off, think about downsizing now before you retire. Add any profits from the sale of your house to your retirement savings and move to a less costly situation – such as a smaller house or a condo.

In addition, do an assessment of all the ways you spend money and economize wherever you can. Careful planning now, while you are still working, will help you to achieve your goal of a secure and fulfilling retirement and making it last a lifetime.

Prudential has done extensive research about how people can create better outcomes by modifying their behaviors. For a copy of this white paper, “Better Participant Outcomes Through In-Plan Guaranteed Retirement Income,” visit www.prudential.com.

Innovations inspire high school girls to become next generation of female innovators, change the world through STEM

3/5/2013

(BPT) - When the high school class of 2014 graduates from college in five years, more than 8 million jobs will be available in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). For students today, STEM is their future.

Innovations driven by STEM are shaping today’s economy. Though STEM accounts for a majority of job growth in the U.S., the number of students enrolling in relevant degree programs in college to fill these positions continues to decline, leaving a gap of skilled professionals. Women, in particular, are underrepresented in STEM. While women account for nearly half of all filled jobs nationwide, only a quarter of STEM-related positions are held by women.

Even with the known gap, many women are pioneering the industry, showing young girls they too can be successful in STEM. They are leading the charge in bettering the world by developing innovations and technologies such as global, online crowd-sourcing platforms that allow supporters to give funds from mobile devices. Others are advancing alternative energy products that deliver electricity, water and other basic resources in developing countries.

To help bridge the gap and ready the next generation of women innovators, many organizations support initiatives to introduce students, specifically young girls, to the importance of STEM. DeVry University, for instance, has its annual HerWorld program.

“HerWorld was created 16 years ago to educate high school girls about STEM and careers in STEM,” says Donna Loraine, provost/vice president of Academic Affairs at DeVry University. “Our goal is to show girls how they can make a difference in the world through these fields.”

A recent study by the Girl Scout Research Institute found that more than 80 percent of high school girls surveyed expressed interest in considering a career in a STEM field, including engineering, information technology and software development. This is a positive outlook, as positions in STEM are becoming available more rapidly than opportunities in any other field.

HerWorld empowers young women to succeed alongside their male counterparts by participating in confidence-building activities and hands-on workshops. They also hear inspirational stories from real, female role models working in STEM fields.

This year, nearly 7,000 girls from high schools across the country will attend local events during National HerWorld Month in March. Emmy-Award nominated actress Mayim Bialik, renowned for her roles on television series Blossom and The Big Bang Theory, is partnering with DeVry University to further the mission of HerWorld and inspire these girls by sharing her personal STEM journey – balancing her acting career while earning her Doctorate of Philosophy degree in neuroscience from UCLA.

“When I was a teenager, my biology tutor on the set of Blossom inspired me to think about science in a way that showed me that science was made for girls, too,” says Bialik. “It gave me the confidence to pursue a degree in the sciences. I want to motivate and encourage girls to work hard to improve their math and science skills and their perceptions about those fields, regardless of their career goals.”

Considering self-employment? Career fields with double-digit growth

1/30/2013

(BPT) - Americans were born to make lemonade. If you have any doubt about the resiliency of U.S. workers, consider the many reports that indicate millions of Americans are turning life’s lemon of layoffs into an opportunity to work for themselves. With unemployment rates still high, many people are looking to self-employment to create stable, rewarding careers for themselves.

Self-employment offers many advantages, including more flexible work schedules, less job uncertainty and the satisfaction of working for yourself. If you’re considering a career change to self-employment and want to start your own business, insurance may be the field for you. It’s one of four fields, including child care, accounting and financial planning, that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts will see double-digit growth in the next few years.

Opportunities in the insurance industry for sales agents will grow 22 percent between now and 2020, according to the BLS’s Occupational Outlook Handbook. Agents help clients understand their insurance needs and choose policies that best fit those needs and protect the things that are most important: homes, automobiles, businesses and above all else, lives.

The insurance field offers quick entry, even for those with only a high school diploma, and profitability can be even more accessible for those who pursue professional training. Companies like Farmers Insurance, which is expanding into eastern states from its base in California, offer self-employment opportunities for those who wish to run their own agencies. Farmers provides training and can even assist with start-up financing at attractive terms. Along with all the benefits of self-employment, including a more flexible work schedule and the potential to work at home, agents who align themselves with an established company like Farmers can enjoy the benefit of working with a well-recognized brand.

While it may be difficult to predict what the country’s overall unemployment rate will be, there is still plenty of good news for career changers looking for fields that offer growth potential. Choosing a career in insurance, financial planning or another industry that anticipates double-digit growth in the next decade can help many career-changers achieve their dream of becoming successful entrepreneurs and help them make lemonade out of life’s lemons.

Tips for parents to protect kids from cyber bullying

4/22/2013

(BPT) - Bullying has been present in schools since society started educating children in groups. In the old days, the bully’s weapons of intimidation might have been simply stealing another child’s lunch money, or shoving a victim down on the playground. Modern bullying is a high-tech type of antagonism – one that can reach a dangerous level.

Cyber bullying is the use of technology and information by a minor to torment, threaten, harass, embarrass and otherwise humiliate another child. The Internet, social networking sites, cell phones and other digital and interactive technologies are used to take the bully's message to a greater audience than ever before, giving them more power to leave their victims humiliated on a global scale.

"In many ways, it is much easier to bully online than in person," says Dr. Mirjam Quinn, assistant professor of clinical psychology at Argosy University, Chicago. "Bullies can reach a large audience online. There is less, if any, adult supervision governing online behavior and the Internet provides a - sometimes false - sense of anonymity that may lead individuals to behave more aggressively than they would in real life. It is also easier to dehumanize a victim online; since the bully doesn't see the victim's immediate emotional reaction, it’s easier to ignore the emotional impact."

"Victims who experience cyber bullying reveal that they were afraid or embarrassed to go to school,” says Greg Craddock, an academic department director at The Art Institute of Indianapolis. “In addition, research has revealed a link between cyber bullying and low self-esteem, family problems, academic problems, school violence and delinquent behavior. Cyber-bullied youth also report having suicidal thoughts, and there have been a number of examples in the United States where youth who were victimized ended up taking their own lives."

How do your protect your kids? Set appropriate boundaries and monitor their activity.

"The Internet really isn't as anonymous as it seems - it is very much real life," says Quinn. "Your parenting rules in real life can and should very much inform the decisions you make about parenting rules regarding cell phone and Internet use."

"It is important that you have access to the technology your child uses the most," says Craddock. “If your child has a cell phone, you should communicate that you can and will monitor the text messages that are received and sent.”

"It's not a matter of privacy invasion, but of being a parent active in the life of your child," Craddock adds. "Parents should look at and set privacy settings on the sites their children are using. They should also have a list of user accounts that a child has created on the Web, along with the passwords."

Both Craddock and Quinn encourage parents to talk to their kids about appropriate behavior online. Teach them to never post something on the Internet or send a text message that they wouldn't say to a parent or family member.

"Once you send a message or an image out into the world via the Internet or text message, you have no control over where it goes and who will receive it," says Craddock. "Assume that anything posted can, and often will, be made public. If you don't post anything disrespectful, irresponsible or vulgar, then you don't have to worry about who is viewing it."

“Most schools have policies about bullying and a growing number are necessarily instituting them specific to cyber bullying. It is important for parents to review these policies with their children so that both understand what cyber bullying is, what can and should be done about it at the school level and what the consequences are for those who commit it,” says Craddock.

"If bullying ever crosses the line into intimidation or sexual harassment, or affects your child's ability to feel safe when she is around the bully, then the other child's parents, the school, community leaders and (depending on the severity of the situation) the police should be contacted immediately,” says Quinn. “Your child may initially become angry with you for 'overreacting,' but you are doing the right thing by showing him that you will take care of him and keep him safe no matter what."

Your first resume - dos and don'ts

4/16/2013

(BPT) - If you’re heading out into the workforce for the first time, there’s plenty of prep work to do. An employer’s first impression of you could very well be your resume.

Christine Pacheco, director of career services at The Art Institute of Colorado, and Kristin Frank, director of career services at The Art Institute of Phoenix, share the top dos you should include to get noticed and get your foot in the door - and the don’ts that could get your resume tossed in the trash.

First, the dos:

* Do look at the job description and then tailor your resume to the specific needs of the job, advises Frank. Your skills need to match what the employer is looking for. Pacheco stresses the importance of key words that should be included in your resume. “Your resume could be scanned electronically and if key industry words and words from the job description are not in it, it will get tossed before it ever gets to a human being,” she says. That means you should be tweaking your resume for each job.

* Do ensure you’ve completed at least one internship to include on your resume, even if your program of study did not require it. Explain how you contributed to the organization and how you made yourself stand out. Make sure to stress the professional skills you honed during that time. If you’ve done freelance and contract work in your field, create a ‘freelance/contract work” section and list all your clients.

* Do list your membership and participation in professional organizations, and if you haven’t joined a professional organization for your field, do so immediately. “It’s important to show a genuine interest in your industry,” explains Frank. Make sure to also list any professional certifications you’ve earned while still in school.

* Do utilize your college’s career services department. Advisors can assist you in formatting and tailoring your resume and may be able to provide you with job leads. They can also help you prepare for the actual interview.

* Do list your work-related and non-work-related accomplishments. Make sure the non-work accomplishments still showcase your benefit to a potential employer. For instance, if you planned your sorority or fraternity annual philanthropy, focus on the leadership skills you utilized and the organization the event benefitted. If you’ve completed a marathon, list that as well. It showcases your ability to stick with a project and follow through. It could also wind up being a pretty interesting topic of conversation during the interview. Just be prepared to discuss your skills and accomplishments, when asked.

Which brings us to the don’ts:

* Don’t embellish. Because you will be asked about your marathon or how you increased your company’s ROI during your three-month internship, make sure everything you put on paper is true. If not, it could come back to bite you.

* Don’t send before you proofread. “We still see typos and missing names, email addresses or phone numbers,” says Pacheco. Few things annoy hiring managers more than that kind of easily avoided carelessness. It tells an employer that you do not have attention to detail and that you complete sloppy work. In an era with spell-check, most of this can be easily avoided.

* Don’t use that “cute” email address you created in college. A hiring manager will be hard-pressed to take “partygirl@email.com” or “lovetheladies@email.com” seriously, warns Frank.

* Don’t include irrelevant info on your resume. A philanthropic event you organized for your fraternity is a plus, the spring break trip you spearheaded may not impress, nor will your award for most parties attended in a semester. Make sure the information you include showcases your responsible side. Your future employer does not want to imagine you calling in sick because you stayed out too late the night before.

* Don’t go on and on. “I’ve seen executive-level resumes that stuck to a page or two,” says Pacheco. Make sure your resume is clear and to the point.

Naval ROTC pays for college and guarantees a career following graduation

5/2/2013

(BPT) - College students interested in the Navy can focus on their academic careers while eliminating much of the financial burden of paying for school. With more than 160 colleges and universities across the United States offering Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) programs, students have many opportunities to finish a degree without going into overwhelming debt and have a career as a Navy Officer ready and waiting upon graduation.

Most NROTC units are only a part-time commitment during a student’s course of study at a university or college. NROTC offers up to $180,000 for tuition, with additional educational and lab fees covered. Students who enroll also receive a stipend for text books and living expenses each month, which increases each year the student is in school. With these expenses covered, NROTC students can make the most of their college experience by keeping their focus on academics, hobbies, and having the flexibility to pursue intramurals or spend time with friends rather than having to work to pay for tuition and board.

Students enrolled in NROTC also gain valuable leadership skills. Community service projects, Navy drills, and Naval Science courses are just a few of the activities that help prepare students to become respected Navy Officers. Additionally, Summer Cruise Training gives NROTC students an opportunity to shadow Navy Officers and gain invaluable on-the-job experience. These might include assignments on a nuclear submarine or nuclear surface vessel; training with a Navy aviator, which could include flight time; and training with navies of other countries in foreign exchange.

Upon graduation, careers in the Navy can take Sailors around the world and provide them with opportunities not available anywhere else. A vast array of career opportunities across skill sets are available as a Sailor. Just a few of the skilled professions available include nuclear propulsion, aviation, civil engineering, computer engineering and Nurse Corps. In addition, Sailors have access to Navy-funded continuing education programs to further their training and degrees.

Application to NROTC can begin during the second semester of a student’s junior year of high school. Future Sailors must adhere to strict moral, physical and academic standards, and students who meet the following requirements are encouraged to enroll in NROTC:

* U.S. citizenship

* Willingness to bear arms

* Be a high school graduate or have an equivalent certificate

* Be between the ages of 17 and 23 by enrollment, and under the age of 27 by graduation

* Pass a physical exam

* Have fewer than 30 semester or 45 quarter hours of college credit upon application

* Commit to serve for a minimum of five years (four years for nurses)

Naval ROTC provides students with career options upon graduation and helps make a college education – as well as further training – financially feasible. To learn more, visit navy.com.

Tap the hidden job market

5/31/2013

(BPT) - The process of finding employment has quietly undergone an evolution. Job seekers are discovering that many positions are not posted to the public. In fact, the online career guidance resource Quintessential Careers reports that only 15 to 20 percent of available jobs post to newspapers, online job boards or employment agencies.

“Not advertised?” ask many exasperated, out-of-work job candidates who regularly scour newspapers and websites in the hopes of finding a job. If this traditional search yields just a fraction of available employment opportunities, where are the bulk of open positions hiding? Welcome to the new hidden job market.

The hidden job market is real, and as discussed on LinkedIn, reportedly more effective than the old conventional way. “At least half of all new hires find employment through networking,” says Jason Rinsky, national director of Career Services at the Brown Mackie College system of schools. Yes, good old-fashioned word-of-mouth can help you find the back door to employment options.

Why is the hidden job market so huge?

“Recruiters want to minimize the amount they spend on advertising,” says Dr. Cynthia Scarlett, chair of the Graduate Business and Organizational Leadership programs at Argosy University, Denver. “If they can get a recommendation, it puts them one step ahead in the vetting process.” Hiring managers, too, seem more likely to hire a person who has been recommended by a co-worker or trusted associate. A 2012 New York Federal Reserve Bank study bears this out, citing that referred candidates were twice as likely to land interviews compared to those who were not referred, and 40 percent more likely to be hired.

“Hiring managers will often consider people inside the company for a new position, or people they know. Often, the next step is to seek recommendations from trusted sources. A referred candidate saves time over total stranger,” continues Dr. Scarlett. “Networking is a vital step when looking for a job.”

Reinvigorate your networking efforts

Networking is not a new idea. It is simply building relationships with people. Attending networking events may seem daunting to some; however, Rinsky points out, “Each experience tends to increase confidence in the participant.” A little preparation goes a long way toward building a professional network. Dr. Scarlett advises everyone to practice the elevator pitch, and think about ways to open conversations. “Brainstorm questions about what to ask those in your industry. And, of course, have your resume prepared and ready to go,” she says.

Manage your networking expectations

Few people are likely to attend a single networking event and come away with a job. “Don’t go to a big professional meeting and hand out hundreds of business cards. Try to come away from each event with two relevant contacts,” says Scarlett. ”Focus on quality, not quantity. This won’t get you a job next week, but it will provide a manageable way to follow up with your new contacts.”

Follow up with new contacts

Remember, this is your job search, your professional life. Take the initiative to follow up with new contacts to support your connection. “You could ask if they are interested in an email from you about the topic you’ve been discussing,” Dr. Scarlett says. “Or, suggest that you meet for coffee and continue the conversation next week.” One step at a time, you are building a relationship.

Network by keyboard with purpose

Many people are tapping LinkedIn, the popular business social network, to connect with professional groups and find work. “This is a tool that should be used in a professional way, says Rinsky. “It is not a facebook equivalent; however it is a smart way to connect with people in your industry.”

Don’t overlook serendipity

You never know when the person next to you at the grocery store, or sitting behind you in a restaurant, is a hiring manager with a position to fill. ‘Networking can happen anywhere, in a bank or at volunteer events,” Dr. Scarlett says. “It does happen that way; every now and again, someone lands a job by way of a chance encounter.” It pays to be prepared in how you might present yourself, and the questions you might ask of people you meet in your everyday life.

Networking is the key to the hidden job market. “When you’re looking for a job, one person has only so much capacity, says Rinsky. “With each person who helps, you’ve got multiple eyes and ears working on your behalf. The more people involved, the greater your chances will be to find that dream job."

Reduce brain drain in your kids over summer

5/9/2013

(BPT) - The second the school bell rings signaling that school’s out for summer, it seems that children immediately forget everything they’ve studied over the past nine months. When they return to school in the fall, playing catch up takes time.

Studies show that this brain drain can result in as much as a few months’ worth of learning lost over the summer. The achievement gap widens in the fall as students struggle to “relearn” what they knew the spring prior.

"Typically, teachers spend the first week to the first two months of the school year trying to bring student knowledge up to a specific level in order to advance their learning," says Debra Hill, associate professor in the College of Education at Argosy University, Chicago and immediate past president of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. "This is found most commonly in math, where review can last through the first full semester in some grade levels."

So when all your kids want is down time, how do you keep their minds tuned up?

While proactive summer learning can certainly improve a child's retention rate, the way that they learn in the summer may be different from how they learn while in the classroom. "Learning is an ongoing, lifelong activity," says Hill. "A mental break for your kids in the summer should occur not based on learning, but based on the activities students engage in related to learning. Summer should be about more reading for fun, exploration, communication and application of what they have learned.

"Since students do not often practice by doing or by teaching others, it would follow that the application of what they have learned in school through hands-on activities in the summer will assist in retention in the fall," says Hill. "Hands-on experiences, conversations and physical activity will help kids continue to be mentally active." Providing students with opportunities to participate in activities they consider fun will not lessen the learning.

"The more you can keep your students accessing previously learned knowledge in a new and practical way, the more it is likely to get implanted and permanently ingrained in their brains," says Kevin Yeoman, an instructor in the Game Art & Design program at The Art Institute of Fort Worth.

Family meals, trips to the store, collecting shells on the beach, heading to sports camp and almost any other activity can have a learning component if parents engage in conversation with their kids about the activity. "Learning a new skill, or about a new place, or a different way of doing something, or meeting new people are ways of studying. There will not be a test, yet the new information contributes to the overall mental growth of the individual," says Hill.

"Keep your students actively engaged in the world," says Yeoman. "The more they can apply their book knowledge to new experiences and activities they enjoy, the more learning will take place.

"You don't want to create a resistance to learning by forcing your child into the same types of activities they do during the year," says Yeoman. "Instead, take the lessons they've learned in school and apply them to everyday situations. Whether it's having your child map out the route to the grocery store or use basic geometry to create a sandcastle, you're providing them the opportunity to apply their book knowledge in a new way."

And that can even hold true with video games. "There are excellent technology tools such as video games and online projects that are educational and engaging," says Hill. "The key is balance and not encouraging kids to focus most of their time on their electronic toys.

"Ask kids what they like and want to do," suggests Hill. "As an adult, examine what learning can take place when your child gets to select the activities they participate in. Talk to your kids, ask questions, provide problems to be solved, give them opportunities to explore and model what it's like to be a life-long learner."

A 'six-pack' of tips for aspiring entrepreneurs

5/30/2013

(BPT) - In 1984, armed with his great-great-grandfather’s recipe, Jim Koch brewed a batch of beer in his kitchen. Shortly thereafter, equipped with bottles of his cherished brew, Koch went from door-to-door tenaciously selling it to local bars and restaurants.

He recognized early on that to be successful, the journey will come with mistakes – potentially million dollar mistakes. Drawing upon both past feats and failures, Jim Koch offers up a collection of lessons and tips he’s used throughout his journey to make Samuel Adams one of the leading independent American craft breweries and a successful business.

* Better and cheaper

One of the first valuable lessons Koch learned was that if you’re going to bring out a new product, it has to be better or cheaper than the competition. If your product is neither better nor cheaper, you are not adding value for customers; and you probably don’t have a business. Once Koch decided to start a beer company, he believed that by using quality ingredients and a traditional brewing process, he could make a better beer than anything that was on the market during the 1980s.

* Think big, start small

Koch admits that early on, he occasionally forgot the simple truth that a business really starts when a customer buys your product. Luckily, his uncle reminded him of that one morning just before the first batch of beer was ready. Jim recalls, “My uncle called and asked what I had been working on. I told him that I planned to buy a computer to track sales. He pointed out that I didn’t have any sales to track and suggested instead that I spend my time actually getting sales. Immediately, I got it. It all starts with your first customer.” From that day forward, Koch followed the adage, “Have a big idea but start small.”

* We’re all salesmen

When Koch was a student, Harvard Business School offered about 22 courses on marketing and not a single course in sales. Therefore, there was nothing that prepared students for the abject terror of a sales call. It was March 1985 when he walked into a local restaurant and delivered an ill-prepared pitch to a man behind the bar, who stood silently throughout. In that humbling moment, Koch gained instant respect for all sales people, and vowed to acquire selling skills. Great salesmen are sometimes born, but they can also be made. Today’s business culture doesn’t always pay adequate respect to the job of selling. Koch urges all young entrepreneurs to never look down at salesmen, because if you start a company, you become your first and most important salesperson.

* The string theory

In the middle of graduate school, Koch decided to take a break and became a mountaineering teacher at Outward Bound. The program teaches participants self-reliance, teamwork, creativity and how to handle challenges. Through his teaching, Koch developed something he likes to call the “string theory.” At the beginning of each four-week course, participants were given a supply of alpine cord (heavy nylon string) for lashing gear, pitching tarps, etc. Consistently, if participants received plenty of string, they would run out and need more. But, when they were given less and told they had only two-thirds of what they really needed, they would get incredibly creative and make the cords last.

* Company values

In the beginning, when local distributors declined to carry Samuel Adams, Koch had to become his own distributor and sales force. He carried chilled bottles of Boston Lager to bartenders around Boston. They admired the fact that Koch was so hands-on, opting to brew small batches, rather than trying to compete with the larger brewers mass-producing mainstream beers. These early practices are the same ones Koch uses today. When you start your own company, be sure to instill a solid foundation of operations and processes throughout every step of the journey, to ensure that your business stays true to your philosophy and values.

* Getting rich is life’s great booby prize

Although the promise of financial success is what motivates some people to start their own businesses, the fact is money is nothing if you’re not happy. Often, when young entrepreneurs embark on the journey of starting a business, they do it with the goal of getting rich. The unfortunate fact is that about 90 percent of businesses fail within the first five years. And, most of the businesses that do survive don’t create great wealth for the owners. If your objective is to accumulate wealth, starting a business may not be the wisest path. On the other hand, if you get into business doing something you love, you have a very high chance of being happy. Ask any person: would you rather be rich, or would you rather be happy?

Koch knew he had to focus on the activities that provide the best return on time invested. To this day, he still tastes a sample from every batch, keeping an obsessive eye on quality and flavor. From the people to the product, Koch is as involved in the company’s day-to-day operations as he was when Samuel Adams started. He makes decisions based on what’s best for the beer, not the bottom line.

College career services go social to connect students and employers

6/3/2013

(BPT) - College students need little encouragement to use social media to interact with their classmates, family and friends, but many are still leery of using the platforms when it comes to seeking employment.

Only 20 percent of college career center professionals felt students were enthusiastic about using social media as part of their job search process, according to the Career Services Use of Social Media Technologies survey, conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) on behalf of the Career Advisory Board, established by DeVry University.

“Ninety percent of all career services departments now use social media platforms to target their students and provide them with career information,” says Ed Koc, director of strategic and foundation research, NACE. “But we aren’t seeing students use these readily available tools for professional networking.”

This finding underscores the fact that students aren’t accessing important resources of college career services that might really help them move their job searches forward.

The new research also indicates that while college career services are increasingly turning to social media to communicate with students, they haven’t yet found the right mix of information and dialogue to truly engage them.

“While college career services have come a long way in embracing social media over the past five years as a tool to communicate with students, there is still room for improvement,” says J.T. O’Donnell, career strategist, workplace consultant and Career Advisory Board member.

For instance, 38.9 percent of career centers participating in the survey expressed disappointment with the fact that the level of student engagement didn’t increase after instituting a social media presence.

“Career centers that implement a strategic approach to their social media efforts – those that create and distribute meaningful, timely content across channels are going to see an uptick in student engagement,” says O’Donnell.

Additionally, the Career Advisory Board offers the following advice for college career services departments to better connect with students via social media:

1. Invest in becoming social savvy – In order to engage effectively with college job-seekers, career services professionals need to understand social media as well the students they serve.

The NACE/Career Advisory Board survey showed that only 25 percent of career services professionals receive university-sponsored social media training despite the fact that they provide social media advice to students. Colleges should invest in social media training for career services professionals to make sure they can stay ahead of the curve.

2. Understand the purpose of each platform – Career centers must build online communities that appeal to different audiences and should select their channels appropriately. Perhaps, Facebook is reserved for current students only, whereas LinkedIn is used to create a bridge between students and alumni. Students will tune out if what you’re saying isn’t relevant to them and won’t hear you if you’re not where they are. Make sure you customize your approach for social media. All platforms are not alike.

3. Provide timely news – Career services professionals are focused on tracking the economic climate and current job market. This information is incredibly useful to students and can help them focus their efforts as they seek employment. Providing students with “news they can use” via social media will make career services a valued employment resource.

4. Solicit student feedback – Career centers need to know if students like what they are hearing. While social media metrics can offer important data on traffic, sentiment and engagement, students should be encouraged to provide direct feedback on career services social media channels to indicate what they like and dislike.

For additional advice and to read the full survey, visit: careeradvisoryboard.org.