How to Strategically Plan For Your Next Job Search

When you're planning for your next job search there's specific knowledge you'll need to know and how to apply it effectively.

Many people have asked, "How Do I strategically plan for my next Job Search.?

Below is a simple, yet highly effective, Step-by-Step Strategic Plan for your next career move:

Step 1: Whenever you're seeking employment make sure you know every resource option that's available to you. This will save you both time and effort in the long run. Do not assume the Internet is the one and one way to look for employment. Know this! Change in demand for specific job skills is always changing; and know what tools are available to you can help you enormously.

Step 2: Secondly, the second step is to know that when research is done correctly and executed effectively your chances of landing employment increase significantly. The key i is to focus on what's important to accelerate the process, and then carry out those specific activities.

If you look at everything from your prospective employers view you're way ahead of virtually all other competing candidates. Know what they really want. When you look at it from what they want from you, not what you want from them, you'll be much more in tune with what needs to be done to ultimately land a higher paying job.

Don't get the wrong idea during this step; just remember they need you just as much as you need them; if not a little more. If you think in terms of exactly what the employer wants and then act on that, you'll increase your chances of finding employment much faster.

Step 3: During this step, take time to think things through and don't rush the employment process. As you go through the job search process; don't expect miracles overnight. The tasks involved can be both time consuming and also frustrating. Don't find yourself rushing or pursuing towards a job you don't want. By strategically implementing and executing your plan, you'll notice things will seem to just fall right into place.

Step 4: In you strategy, identify the value of time utilization, prioritizing activities and how to complete crucial job search task simultaneously to achieve your employment goals. Work is something most people need and a higher paying job is closer than you may think. To succeed during this step, you've got to aim high and achieve your ultimate employment goals; a higher paying job and employment with a company you believe in. Following through on this fourth is something both you and employer benefit from. However, being employed with one company doesn't guarantee long-term success.

Step 5: This probably the most important strategy: stay focused on your objectives and don't lose focus on the overall strategic plan. As with any company, you'll still have daily responsibilities and certain objectives you must meet for your employer; especially if you want to advance your career with that particular employer. Obviously, you want to stay employed, show up to work on time, do good work and demonstrate integrity (regardless of your current job situation). This is very important for you term success .

In the end documenting your plan and following through on it will also pay dividends as you move onto to other positions within the organization or seek employment with other companies. You’ll have the peace of mind in knowing that you're earning your way through life. However, don't stop looking for other employment opportunities. Remember to have a strategic plan, always aim high, be positive and try to get into the habit of talking with a positive attitude regardless of what you're saying or currently experiencing.

Here is the key: Follow your own unique plan, seek to achieve goals at each and every step and anticipate an emerging strategy to come out of your job search. Do not stop looking for work even when you are gainfully employed.

If you stick with your plan, set work related goals daily and balance them around what you intend to do to achieve your long-term employment objectives. you will find a job you really enjoy.

Michael G Perry

Top 6 Tips For Giving a Great Job Interview and Getting a Job

There are numerous challenges in life nowadays, and giving a job interview is one of the most stressful. So, we hope that you will make use of these tips when giving your next job interview, to put across your abilities and character in a fashion that gets you the job you would like. The guidelines governing the mechanics of giving a great job interview and getting a job are part science ( objective ) and part art ( subjective ) So, how do you make absolutely sure to get great results?

Your answer should be to provide great information, and communication. It is a fact that doing almost anything is achievable when you are aware of what is needed. Anything is simpler to do when you're well-informed when talking about it. To get excellent results with giving a great job interview and getting a job, you must just know more about how precisely to do it. So, read on! Detailed here are five effective tips for giving a convincing and convincing job interview and getting a job:

1. Have all the essential details about yourself correctly rehearsed in your conscious mind. These include education, pass-times, interests and prior work experience. Try and slant what you are saying about your education, your interests and the roles you have had in your jobs to date to show why you'd be the best applicant for this job.

This is vital because your interviewers will be desiring to discover this info and determine that you're the person you say that you are in the job application you submitted. The results once you follow these ideas are that you make it easy for them to do their job, which they will always like.

2. Ensure you demonstrate a certain amount of keen anticipation for the job you are being interviewed for. Remember, the interviewer is looking for somebody they feel will be perfectly fitted to the job publicized. Which is essential because, if you come across as having little interest in the position, do you really think that you will be offered it?

3. Ensure you do the research on the company offering the job and the job role itself so you give a sound impression of your understanding at the interview. And also because most jobs today are so heavily applied for that you will need to show a glint of something special and additional which you may bring to the job, to get most jobs.

4. Reinforce your job application with real proof of what you have done in prior jobs. Do not just give a uninspiring 1 or 2 word outline of your role - do be sure that you elaborate. Give precise outlines of individual aspects of the work you did. Again, attempt to emphasis examples of jobs you performed that would make you good for the job you have applied for.

The explanation for this is that you show yourself as an individual and show how well you were committed to doing your prior job well. It's also actually useful because many candidates will fail at this, and by doing it you instantly raise your quality application above almost all of the others submitted.

5. Work out previously the type of abilities and qualities you're feeling you'd need to perform the job you are trying for, and think about as many good examples as you can, of how you have demonstrated these in your work and personal life until now. This a brilliant idea, as you'll be properly prepared when you get questions about this during your interview.

Questions which are often asked during interviews include:

"Explain what skills and experience will you be bringing to this job which will help you and your team"?

"How well do you work in a team"?

Readiness of this sort will help to raise your confidence in the interview.

6. Try to do well with your appearance. Remember, initial impressions are some of the biggest impressions the interviewer is going to have of you, so go hell for leather to make those initial impressions count. Consider the sort of personality qualities and character qualities you believe somebody good at the job you have requested would demonstrate, and try and come across at the interview as having those qualities.

And, the reason why is this vital is, thanks to the natural human trait of recollecting first appearances, and irrespective of how we'd try otherwise, not permitting first thoughts about somebody to color later thoughts about them. However, should you feel that an interview started badly, don't be too worried. First impressions will get replaced to a degree by an interviewee showing his or her real character, if the applicant really is well suited to the job, as an empathy builds up between those present throughout the interview period.

Other reasons for this are the interviewers won't only want a worker who can do the job well, they will wish to have a person who will fit-in with their associates and get on inside the company environment and kinds of people already employed.

Finally, do research the location of the interview office and how you will get there, and park you car if driving etc, well in advance. All the good work you do before an interview will be damaged if you arrive late, or just in time - but stressed up by a difficult and rushed journey.

Just punctiliously follow the six tips above and you can expect good results in giving job interviews and getting a job. You may then expect to have all the joys, benefits and fruits those good results will bring. If you ignore these six tips, prepare yourself for far worse results, and at the same time lower benefits.

By Steve Evans

The Perfect Resume - The Job Search Killer

One of the causes of failure for start ups is failing to get to market soon enough. That same issue affects job seekers. Developing the perfect resume gets in the way of getting yourself to market - getting interviews. Sometimes, good enough is good enough.

I'm not telling you to send out a bad resume. Just identify the employer's need and focus your resume on that need. You could put all kinds of accomplishments and skills in your resume. 

Much of it has no relevance for a specific employer no matter how proud you are of the achievement. Don't waste a single line of your pages on anything that is not relevant. Get the things the employer told you they are interested in into the resume, spell check it, and deliver it.

For decades, I've worked with people who found their dream job in the want ads, on a bulletin board, or posted online and struggled with trying to put together the perfect resume and the perfect cover letter for that job. Most of the time, that was a story they told me after they missed out on a job they really wanted. They just couldn't get their effort in a perfect enough state to let the employer look at it. They didn't want their resume to be rejected because it wasn't perfect so they never got in the race.

The employers take the time to let you know what they're looking for. All you have to do is let them know that you have what they're looking for neatly and correctly. No one was ever rejected because their resume was not perfect. They were rejected because their resume didn't look like a match or it had a coffee ring on it or it was full of typos. They get an interview with an imperfect resume that clearly communicates their value in the terms the employer told them mattered to them. The employers do part of the work for you. If you were the developer of a product or service, you would have to do research to see if there was a need. In the job market, the buyer defines the need for you - no effort on your part at all. You are the product or service. If you match the requirements, get yourself to market as soon as you find a buyer who's looking for you.

Conclusion: Relevant, clear, concise communication of the position is the first step toward a good enough resume. Since the employer did the first step for you, just respond showing how you match and prepare for the interviews.

Joy Montgomery

Job Hunting? Networking Is The Key Strategy

So you're looking for a new job. You have written a compelling CV and crafted a perfect cover letter. You've made contact with job agencies, read the career sections in the papers and sent out numerous applications.

That's great, at least for a start. However, all it really means is that now you're prepared to begin with your real job hunt. Without doubt, recruitment agencies, major and minor newspapers or websites dedicated to job listings are useful tools when looking for employment.

They will give you a feeling for what is available on the market, skills that are in demand and salary ranges you can ask for. For some people reading or placing job ads, either in print or online, might work.

However, if your applications get turned down again and again, it might not be because of your insufficient skill set or expertise. More likely it's because a growing percentage of vacant jobs all over the world are filled through personal referrals. In fact, many of these jobs wouldn't even be publicly advertised, in particular at executive level.

That's why you need to start networking if you're serious about getting a good job fast and without unnecessary frustration. Today, networking has become a key strategy that people use to find new jobs, change careers, advance in their careers or get back into the work force.

The Australian Institute of Management defines networking "as connecting with others without the need for immediate gain ... a proactive investment in the future aimed at building a relationship with another well before assistance is sought."

Growing your list of private, professional and business contacts through networking is a powerful tool and more and more people use it. You can hardly pick up any business or trade magazine without seeing an article about it. You can hardly go out for breakfast without seeing the waitress taking orders for strong Flat Whites and Short Blacks from a group of professionals who deliberately got together to make new business contacts.

Don't underestimate the power of networking. Use it, get your diary out, block time to actively grow the number of people you know. Done well, networking will magically unlock doors for you that you never thought existed and present you with great opportunities.

Networking is a skill, and like almost any other skills, it's possible for you to learn it. To be upfront with you, you better be good at networking, since done badly it will backfire and your career is gone.

Get active! Tap into existing networks and attend a formally organized networking event by networking groups such as Business Networks International (www.bni.com). Capitalize on natural networking opportunities that occur when you play golf or shop in your local supermarket. All you have to do is learn and embrace essential rules of how to become a successful net worker and job offers will find you instead of you finding them.

Claudia Raab

Jobs For Business Studies Graduates

Business Studies is currently one of the fastest growing higher education courses in the UK. Although the reasons for this might seem simple, i.e. the changing financial climate and the growing negativity towards working for faceless multinationals and conglomerates, it can also seen to be due to the increasing accessibility of Business courses, for example via distance learning courses. However, it is not always clear exactly what jobs are suited to Business Studies graduates.

So what are the perfect jobs for the thousands of Business Studies graduates.

One seemingly ever-growing sector of Business jobs is Marketing. The role of a Marketing Executive today is typically fast paced and changing, as well as being incredibly varied and diverse. Although it may seem that these types of jobs are normally associated with retail and media, public sector organizations also tend to have a marketing department and marketing agencies themselves deal with a wide range of clients from charities to banks.

Similarly, many Business Studies graduates move into the advertising sector. Advertising Account Executives are those who communicate between the business and the agencies handling the advertising. Roles can be administrative and include a degree of organization whilst overseeing the work of staff and the progression of each campaign. Monitoring budgets and securing deals are also priority aspects of this role.

Many Business graduates express an interest specifically in retail. The role of the Retail Merchandiser is fairly straightforward, they are responsible for the certain products being in the right shops at the right time. Again, this is a varied job due to the diversity of the retail sector and the companies therein. Product ranges need to be planned, and this involves working with sellers, manufacturers and distributors. Of course, once the products are on the shelves, it is then the Retail Merchandiser's job to monitor the selling success (or lack) of each and every product.

The role of the Sales Executive takes on similar work to the above but varies again. Sales Executives are responsible for maximizing the sales of a companies goods, in particular: FMCGs (Fast Moving Consumer Goods, i.e. food), clothes, IT software, and services. Sales executives are called upon to liaise with customers and potential customers for new business. They also need a good head for budgets, trends of markets and customers, and also need to be on top of their own sales performance.

Sarah Maple

The Best Presentation Strategy For a Job Interview

Nearly everyone would like to know the tips that lead to a successful job interview presentation. It is really no surprise since the presentation could decide if you are to get this job or any other because the labor market is so tight these days. Because you are taking the time to read this article it is obvious that you are searching for these tips as well.

The big secret that leads to a great job interview presentation is that there is not really a big secret! Every endeavor that is competitive, being prepared is all that is needed to in the way of luck and it will surely help you do well in the presentation and could lead to you getting the job.

The preparation should defiantly start with presenting your personal information clearly, concisely, and completely and you must think logically and strategically and should present a strong connection to the particular job that you are applying for. You should remember that if you present them with excellent information they are likely to ask more questions about your skills, abilities, and talents that you have developed in your previous experiences that will result in making you a good candidate for the job.

You may be thinking that this could be a difficult thing to do, and you are absolutely right. Because of this you should start with writing, researching, and rehearsing the items that you will present so you can have a much better chance to get the job that you have wanted for a long time.

Research Until You Are Sure To Know More Than They Believe You Will

The applicant that has no idea about the responsibilities of the job, the expectations of such a position, or no knowledge about the culture in a corporate environment is sure to be passed by as they seek to get a position at a company. This is why research taking the time to do the research listed above is so crucial to the successes of the applicant.

After you have gathered all necessary pieces of information you should then turn your attention to putting it into a presentation that will make the interviewer believe that you are the right choice for the position that they have open. You should begin by listing all of the requirements that are necessary for the job and connecting them with your personal qualifications, skills, and previous work experiences. Once this is complete, put them in order into one complete presentation.

Take Advantage of Visual Presentation and Use It Well

Pictures can tell a thousand stories. While it does sound unconventional, it very well could be one of the most valuable pieces of advice that you will ever get in regards to an interview presentation. Studies have actually shown that using visualization is far more effective than using bullet points in the presentations and it also adds a piece of uniqueness that will make your interview stick in their minds as they review the applicants.

You cannot choose just any picture, though. You must use a picture that shows off your talents, skills and abilities that fit into the requirements of the job. As an example, if you presented a picture of your hands because they ask for someone that has knowledge about open handed management, it would not be a good thing. A more suitable picture would be of you leading a round table group if they are asking for someone that has participative leadership styles.

Make Use of the Rule of Three and The Rule of Less is More

The ten minute rule, maximum of ten minutes for a presentation, should be adhered to for your interview presentation. While the time is much longer than the typically elevator conversation, it is much shorter than the entire time you will spend in the interview so you will have to take advantage of every minute of it. This is where the "less is more" rule comes into play.

To make the best of the "less is more" rule you will also have to apply the rule of three. You can see the fascination with the number three as it applies to communication when you look at Winston Churchill (Blood, Sweat and Tears), Julius Caesar (Vendi, vedi, vici), and as a recent example, Tony Blair (Education, education, education).

Alright, back on track. It is recommended that you find your strongest three abilities that relates with the position that you are applying for and put emphasis on them in your presentation. As an example, you may decide to focus on the quote of "Participation, Passion, and Perfection", in regards to the job.

Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse

Once your final draft has been written you should spend some time in front of a full length mirror rehearsing your presentation. You will see any rough patches in the presentation and will be able to make adjustments. You can also spend some time adjusting your body language so that you appear to be very confident.

Be sure that you take the time to memorize the presentation that you prepare. If you put all the time and effort into researching and writing your presentation and then do not rehearse it you have done nothing but left yourself looking unprepared in front of the interviewer. It is a commonly known fact about what happens to a person if they show up for an interview and they are not prepared.

It is defiantly better to be prepared for the job interview presentation. You will be able to answer the tougher questions and have some impressive questions lined up to ask of the interviewer. You will then give the impression that you are intelligent and that you are ready to take on the challenges that the job will present, no matter what they are.

Johnny Berg

Golden Methods to Get Highest Paying Jobs

Today you will find the prices of all the things are increasing. The one who can not meet day to day needs wants a better salaried job, which is his/her basic requirement. The one who generates enough money to earn his/her living wants more. So the want, the greed is the motivation to search the highest paying jobs. Here are some of the golden methods to get highest paying jobs. Placement Services: The placement services are authorized professionals. Many companies enter into contract with the placement agencies. The placement agencies take the whole and sole responsibility to provide the manpower. All you have to do is enroll your name in the placement agency. They ask for the information about your present employment, CTC and salary expected etc. They document your professional details and contact you when they come across the relevant opening

Networking: Networking is serving as a boon today. There are many job portals who are active 24X7. The candidate has to acquire the membership of that portal and you will get the job alerts free of cost. You have to fill the complete profile over there. You have to upload the resume cover letter as well as your latest resume. You can avail the paid services of the job portals if you want to grab the highest paying jobs. 

There are special communities such as linked in, yahoo group, creative writers’ community etc. Once you become a member of any such kind of society and publish the information such as you are a job seeker and wants the job in particular field, the recruiters who view your status may give you an opportunity to appear for the interview.

These are the representative ways that help to search jobs of high salary. Compared to old days, it has really become easy to search and grab the job opportunity but always remember that is not all. The highly paying jobs expect quality results and responsibilities come complementary to the salary. So grab the highest paying jobs and make the most of it with your focused efforts, skills and hard work.

If you want to get a good exposure it is the right career path which ensures you name, fame and money. Now a day most radio channels broadcast 24*7 so there are several shifts. In all the shifts anchors, technical staffs, story editors and other members are continuously needed. So… It might be possible that it could be Night jobs or in any other shift so do not hesitate just give wings to your career and fly to get the heights.

By alexavier

Career Crossroads Review Strategy - 3 Simple Steps to Take Your Career to the Next Level

A crossroads check.

At the end of the movie, Cast Away, Tom Hanks stood at the intersection of two desert roads, nothing for miles around, contemplating which direction to take. He knew his choice would impact the direction of his life. If you were in this position, would you consider it scary or exciting?

My request of you is to mark today as your crossroads in the desert; reflect on what has brought you to this point-in-time and what direction you wish to take next.

Implementing the following three steps can be extremely useful in making this decision:
Step 1: Know what you want!

To get what you want, you first need to have a clear picture of your desire. Take time to think about what you want in life and what would it feel like to have it. If you merely want a paycheck, for example, you can get one in a job you hate or one you love. Which would you prefer? List your criteria for living well, for having that desire.

When you have a vision of where you want to be, set goals to help you move toward that vision. If, for instance, you want financial independence at a certain age, set incremental goals each year to get you there. The picture or vision will enable you to reach those incremental goals much easier, as the vision pulls you forward.

Set up a crossroads debrief meeting with yourself (or a partner) to review and make a list of what you have done since your last debrief or the past year. If this sounds overwhelming, here is a suggestion: Just as you write status reports to your managers, you can write one to yourself. This personal status report listing your accomplishments each month can be a useful tool for keeping track of your actions while moving you towards your goals and maintaining your motivation. Can you imagine what a jaw-dropping, eye-popping, good feeling experience it will be to review those accomplishments at year end?

Questions to consider:

• What happened since my last crossroads debrief?
• What goals have I reached?
• Where am I on the goals not yet completed?
• What were my most proud achievements? What did I do to reach them?
• What challenges/difficult situations occurred? How did I handle them?
• What did I do well? What would I like to do better?
• Where do I want to go from here?

Step Two: Feel and act as if it already is here!

Today's world is a difficult place-recession, workforce reductions, more work and less time, etc. All these circumstances can lead to difficult options. Let's remember we always have a choice even when faced with alternatives we don't care for. We can choose to be a victim (why me?) or we can choose to look for opportunities and move on! Step 2 is about taking responsibility for our attitude, emotions, and choices.

A great model I use comes from The Oz Principle by Roger Connors, Tom Smith, and Craig Hickman-Above the Line (Steps to accountability) and Below the Line (the Blame Game).

Below the Line is where we take on the role of victim. We play the Blame Game-why me? Why did they (whoever "they" are) do this to me? We stay stuck in anger, frustration, wishing for what was. We take a wait and see attitude, confused about what to do next, or in denial until our deepest fears happen. How does staying in this 'victim mentality' serve you? Would you not rather be Above the Line, taking accountability for your feelings, reactions, and choices?

This is a four-step process:

1) See it - recognize and acknowledge the current situation and your feelings about it.

2) Own it - accepting responsibility for where you are now. Your choices led you to this moment.

3) Solve it - finding and implementing solutions; perhaps as simple as updating your resume; thinking about what value you bring to the marketplace based on its needs, etc.

4) Do it - implement your plan, one small step at a time.
Step three: Be open to receiving it!

Now that you have put things in motion and feeling hopeful and motivated, it is important to be open to receiving the opportunities you want. Sound ridiculous? "Of course, I will," you say! Sometimes we want something and deep down we do not believe we will find it. You could be thinking, "The economy is bad so there is no way I could get the job I want!" Or, "I will never find the relationship I want", or... This way of thinking is NOT being open to receive!

Keep in mind possibilities are endless. Be open and know the opportunities best fitted for you are on the way. Otherwise, you may never see them coming!

Chris Sier

Top Ten Job Search Strategies

If you are laid off, worried you will be, underemployed or just keeping your resume up to date this article is for you.

Over the last ten years the rules have changed in marketing every product. This change has affected how you will find work. We all know, the absolute best way to find a job is through networking. The unadvertised job is usually your dream job or career. Being able to network with the top officials of organizations is how to tap into this underground market.

 

Here are ten tips to help you make the most of your job search today:

1. Set solid career expectations and goals. Make a business plan just for your career. Break your career into ten year increments which will allow for a measurable result. Every solid business plan includes a marketing plan. Develop a strong marketing plan. It is not who is the best candidate to gets the job and in many cases it is the person with the best marketing campaign.

2. Follow the career business plan to the letter.  This point cannot be emphasized enough. Having a written plan gives you a 99% better chance of accomplishing any goal; strictly following the plan gives you that extra 1%. Your job is to find a job, spend the productive day hours applying and interviewing for positions that fit your goals.

3. Perfect your resume. Resume writing has changed. Consult with a professional recruiter to review your resume.

4. Know your skills, abilities and motivations. All to often candidates are not marketing to their skills and abilities. Knowing what your strengths and weaknesses are will ensure you are thoughtful and growth oriented. Do not be blind sided by the "tell me your top three weaknesses".

5. Explore all industry options. What would the ideal environment look like for you? What industries have this type of environment? For example, if you want to wear jeans everyday apply to those types of organizations.

6. Marketing is a numbers game. To play this game successfully becoming a sales professional is a must. Searching out all opportunities and applying to each of those that fit your desired environment is critical.

7. Do not take rejection personally. There are five applicants for every job posted, 14.9 million remain unemployed. To be noticed today you must be aggressive, consistent, and persistent. Due to the number of those looking for work you must stay on top of your game to secure your next great job.

8. Contact the employers you most want to work for.

9. Be seen and get noticed. Go to every possible networking event in your area if you are not relocating. Be seen everywhere, be known as someone who will be seen everywhere. Make sure you have business cards for yourself and place the top three to five strengths you bring to the table on this card. Let everyone know you are looking for a new opportunity. This is how to connect with the underground employment market. This unpublished market is where the highly compensated positions will be found. Make certain you follow up with anyone you meet at this networking event by sending them a quick email reminding them you are available.

10. Refine and practice your interviewing skills. Successful people do what unsuccessful people do not want to do. Successful people do what has to be done. Give up the television every night and practice your sixty second commercial, practice phone skills, prepare and practice common interview questions. Being prepared is critical for a successful job search.

Following these steps will ensure your job search is shortened from the average seven months. Do not be swayed into thinking you have plenty of time if you are laid off. If you are underemployed staying in the job search with an up to date resume can ensure you locate the right position for your talents. Most employers and recruiters believe good talent does not stay on the market for a long time, just like opportunities. The trick is to attractively position yourself for this new high speed job search marketplace.

Robin Harpe

Why GMAT Scores Are Not Everything - Your Application Essay Might Be the Deciding Factor!

• Find out why achieving ballpark GMAT Score is sufficient
• Discover how Top MBA Schools allocate vacancies
• Learn why your profile and MBA Essay might be the most important factor
• Find out what not to include in your essay

For anyone applying to an MBA program in a top business school, your GMAT score counts as one of the most important determinant on whether you gain entry into the program, regardless of your extensive work experience or undergraduate GPA.

• Score within the range of 630 to 730 

However, the GMAT is only the first step to your program of choice. Working smart to aim for a score that ranges in the ballpark of the mid 600s should be sufficient to gain you entry into a top program. Considering the 80% range of GMAT admission scores for typical top schools figure between 630 and 730, scoring within this ballpark range will probably buy you your ticket through this first step into the program. Therefore, contrary to many people's believe, scoring below a school's media 80% range as they would usually state in their admission prospectus doesn't immediately eliminate your admission chances. As such, retaking the test might not necessarily boost your admission chances.

Instead, once your GMAT score falls within this ballpark range, focus your efforts on preparing for the application essay. This next important state might just work better to help you stand out against the rest.

•  Breakdown of MBA Applicants

Typically, you will be competing in categories based on your work background. This levels the playing field for applicants and admission officers in selecting successful candidates. Majority of the applicants comprise of those who come from the finance and consulting industries and have scored well above average in the 700 range for their GMAT. Many work with prestigious asset management companies, consulting firms and investment banks.

Hence, if acceptance was based solely on GMAT scores, classes would be made up of almost exclusively applicants from these categories. In order to balance the class dynamics, admission officers have a class profile in mind, and select applicants based on this profile that will ensure a good mix of students that each brings something different to the table.

Therein lies their challenge to put together a diversity and well-roundedness such that the students from a wide range of work backgrounds and experiences complement each other while working on assignments together, especially since many are collaborative and interdisciplinary.

The proportion that most intakes end up with is an estimated 60 to 65% from the finance and consulting categories. However, with the disproportionate number of applicants from these backgrounds, competition is rife within these two categories.

Naturally, investment banking and management consulting make up the most competitive categories as the MBA is necessary career advancement measure for people working in these industries. On the other hand, the non-profit category sees the least competition. Along with the token lawyers, doctors, government civil servants and those with military background, these applicants, even with their modest GMAT scores, are chosen for the depth and unique perspectives they can offer to the class. This shows that an exemplary GMAT score doesn't necessarily buy you a sure ticket into the top schools as they are willing to trade modest GMAT scores for valuable experience.

Although not dictated by a specific policy or category quota in their selection process, admission officers tend to subscribe to these grouping guidelines to ensure that the competition is somewhat fair.

• Crafting the Killer Essay

Now that you know who you're competing against, the next step is learning how to craft an application essay that shines against the rest. Instead of talking about what the school can do for you in the essay, elaborate on how you think you can contribute and add value to the school.

You can do this by highlighting your unique work and personal experiences that others in your class can learn from. These could be special projects you've worked on or rare opportunities at work. Remember that many applicants in the consulting and finance categories might also have come from big firms so talking about this generic work experience just because of its prestige would not do much to make you stand out. Rather, you should convince the admissions officer that you have accumulated interesting and insightful experience that you are ready to share with your classmates.

Writing about oneself can be a daunting task having to sift through all the information and decide what to put into your essay. Some information can seem rather mundane to you but interesting to others. While many have interesting experiences worthy of making it into the essay, it does not know what the schools are looking for and putting their thoughts down in words that they get stumped with. Furthermore, it can be assumed that many of these applicants are better at their mathematical skills over language skills, given that they are applying for an MBA course.

Talk through your work experience with someone who is able to offer a fresh perspective in deciding what's interesting about your background, then work to pen it down in a clear and concise way. Work towards a ballpark range GMAT score and an insightful essay, and you might just be on your way into the top business school of your choice!

Jaime Leen

The Association of Chartered Accountants

Since 1996, the term "chartered certified accountant" has been used to define a British qualified accountant and is awarded to qualified applicants by the Association of Chartered Accountants. This elite group of accountants, granted Royal Charter by the Queen, specializes in business accounting, management accounting, financial accounting and even forensic accounting, among others. While many choose to take the private business route, others prefer the organized confines of a government agency.

Not surprisingly, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, or ACCA, is the world's fastest growing accountancy groups. Currently, there are more than 140,000 members, more than 400,000 affiliates and the association is present in at least 150 countries. The group is headquartered out of London, England and dates back to the early 1900s. It initially began as the London Association of Accountants and its goal was to provide transparency in the financial industry. It was not until 1930, however, that the group was finally given the green light to audit companies. After several merges and reformations, in 1974, the Royal Charter was extended and in 1995, the name that is now known was bestowed onto the association and the elite members were allowed to use the designated Chartered Certified Accountant.

The standards are the highest found in any country in the world and current qualifications include fourteen professional examinations, thirty six months of supervised accountancy experience and upon completion of Part 2 of the Professional Scheme, a degree in Applied Accounting is then required from students. The minimum guidelines are quite definitive and unyielding. While there are the occasional exemptions from at least part of the fourteen examinations, students are required to prove their knowledge in financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, company law, financial management, corporate reporting, audit and assurance and financial reporting prior to any exemptions being extended.

A new syllabus, passed in December 2007 and put into effect right away, updated the qualifications as a result of the accountancy field and its advances. It is not uncommon, and in fact, is even expected, every several years and in accordance with the changes and updates in a global financial market. At one time, examinations were held on an annual basis; now, however, they are held bi-annually and in several countries. It is likely this could change as well as demand dictates from an ever expanding field.

Besides the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, legal acknowledgment of the ACCA is left to each country. Members are afforded the option, in those countries that choose not to acknowledge the association, to apply for advanced standing when applicable. And too, there are those countries that don't require this application and simply choose to extend the courtesy.

Finally, the ACCA offers its members certain access to those committees that acknowledge the body. The Financial Services Institute of Australasia recently signed a partnership agreement, as has the Institute of Internal Auditors, the Chartered Institute of Taxation and those professional bodies in Canada, the United States and several other European countries.

David D Sprake

Modern Job Search Strategies

In a modern job search, there is so much more employment opportunity than there was just a few years ago. Thanks to job boards and social networking, there is so much more opportunity to find, research and apply for what seems like many more jobs.

But, does this variety actually offer more opportunity, or just result in more confusion? Most surveys currently suggest that with job boards only being the source of 12% of fulfilled jobs that actually these new job search systems simply result in more job search frustration.

 

Job Search basics

What has to be remembered is that although the opportunities seem greater in number, the basic truth is that the number of jobs is solely dependent on the need of employers from both the public/government and private sector for talent, and supplementing their workforce. Hence the basics of a modern job search come back to the question: how do employers fulfill their vacancies?

Modern employers

As has always been the case, many vacancies are fulfilled internally through promotion. This should be seen by all as a good thing, as employers want to encourage the internal spirit of their work place as a good place to work. The amount of internal promotion and development varies between employer to employer, but anywhere between a third and 90% of vacancies can be fulfilled internally. On average, one third of vacancies are fulfilled internally, and are nominally closed to external hires.

The old primary source of new hires was advertising, either via direct newspaper adverts or through recruitment agencies. While still accounting for one third of fulfilled vacancies, the biggest change in this sector has been from local newspapers to online jobs boards. From launching in 2000, job boards now account for 12% of fulfilled vacancies, which is just over half of the market share which used to be fulfilled by local newspapers. While many may think that the market share is higher, the truth is that most of the good and active local job boards are actually owned by the local newspapers, who now offer a blended media package across a range of formats, which hence supplements their income over greatly degradation it.

Modern job search

But the advertising method of gain new hires and employees is on the wane, thanks to the internet. The fastest expanding sector in recruitment is hiring known people. Traditionally made up of employers hiring people from their supplier’s customers or competitors, the lower cost and known knowledge of the hiring company by the new employee also means quicker integration and hence operational efficiency. This method is now supplemented by two new tactics, with firstly employers paying employees to recommend new hires, and secondly employers using social media search methods to find the exact people with the required skills to fulfill their vacancies. It is postulated by the employment industry that with so much growth at business networking groups such as Linked In, where members can upload their CV/resume for free, that CV/resume databases in the future will not be required or commercial.

The question therefore comes down to what the modern job seeker can do to improve their job search, in both speed to employment and opportunity? Firstly, even if you are looking for a local job, no longer can you rely on just skimming the newspaper and job boards for b adverts to respond to. With only 12% of jobs fulfilled that way, you are reducing your chances of employment by 90%. This should be but one strategy in your job search.

Core Job Search Strategies

Modern job seekers also have to deploy three further strategies.

Firstly, you already have a target job in mind, so why not extend that and have a target employer in mind? I suggest that you initially take 10 potential employers, and research them thoroughly. From this you should gain an idea of what they do, how they do it, the way they operate and where your skills could fit in their organization. Now using social media tools such as Linked In to find the name of the potential hiring manager, approach them via an Informational Interview with a request for a meeting.

Secondly, when you know that employers are paying employees to find new hires, the power of Job Search Networking is greatly increased. Where do the employers go who recruit in your sector? Is there a local business group, such as a chamber of commerce; or a professional sector body covering your profession, such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants? A simple per-formed Elevator Pitch and the premise that you probably won't secure a job at the meeting, but a follow up coffee could easily secure an introduction, should see more opportunity come your way.

Thirdly, make sure that your Social Media Profile is on the internet in the right places and in the right order. 80% of employers now undertake initial background checks on job applicants to job adverts through a simple Goggle-based search of your name. Hence not having a social media profile is as bad as having one which includes your professional profile next to pictures from your lads stag do in Spain. Employers want socially connected people, but if you place it on the internet then its fair game in consideration and not privacy intrusion.

Ten years ago a job search was looking through newspapers, the new opportunities offered by new tools and techniques need to be applied so that they give you the best chance of employment. So don't just replace a newspaper with a job board, look at the three additional strategies - Informational Interview, Networking and Social Media profile - to get employed quicker in the job you want.

Good Luck!

Ian R McAllister

Finding a Job in Today's Challenging Economy

In today's economy, finding a job has become increasingly more difficult for many people. This is true in all sectors and includes people from all pay scales who are currently out of work and are trying to find a decent paying job.

When searching for a job, there are a number of different things that should be done. It is important to not get frustrated in the search as it is currently a very competitive market.

Because of this, you need to look at many different options during the search. There are a lot of online websites and providers that offer job seekers the tools to help them in their quest. By getting set up with an online account, you are able to post your resume, get in touch with employers, and browse all of the available jobs that are currently out there.

When you are doing the work required in finding a job, one important issue is that your resume should be up to date. It needs to reflect the current job that you are going for. If your resume does not reflect the job market for which you are in, you are less likely to get a position.

It is a wise idea to have several different resumes that highlight different areas of your career. This way, when you are seeking employment in a particular job market, you can present a resume that is customized to that particular market. With your resume it is also important that your references are up to date, relevant, and they are also willing to give a recommendation. Many times people will list references on the resume who have not agreed or will not give the best review. This is certainly a mistake that can be avoided.

Available jobs can be found in many different places. That is why it is important to look in all different areas. Look online, look in the newspaper, and be aware of local opportunities and information about potential jobs. You never know where you might find that dream job.

When going for the interview, it is wise to prepare thoroughly before the actual day. Practice going over potential questions, make sure that you are very familiar with the company itself, and make sure that you have a presentable and professional outfit to wear. It is always best to dress more professionally than the job requires. With some research and diligence and good presentation skills, finding a job of your dreams is possible. Do not get frustrated as this may take some time but as long as you are optimistic you should certainly succeed.

Jeremy Winters 

Should You Buy a Business or Get a MBA?

Profit Now or Profit Later

Those who have recently graduated from college or in the process of completing their degrees, specifically those who are majoring in business, find it hard to choose between two contrasting options: to stay in school and get a MBA - Master's of Business Administration - or go out into the real world and start a business. To make an informed decision on this matter, there are four factors that one needs to consider: money, time, estimated return on investment and the current market condition. Those people who choose to get a masters degree do so under very stressful situations. They usually work part-time while studying, earning just enough to sustain full-time classes. These students oftentimes use their own savings, borrow money from family members or friends, and sometimes go into debt issues because of unpaid student loans. After a couple of years studying in a business school, they already possess a significant degree of education that they can use as an advantage over those who did not pursue a MBA. However, they cannot deny the fact that they are also far behind when it comes the actual world of entrepreneurship.

Business Owners and the MBA program

It can be very beneficial if you decide to get a MBA program while running an already existing business. Everything you will learn from your classes can be directly applied to the business you are managing. Buying a business and running it personally will help you develop new business skills and hone those that you already have. Having a MBA degree will surely show you how to improve your weaknesses in business management. Attending a business school is also a good opportunity for you to meet new people and make lifelong professional relationships that will give you an advantage in running an existing small business. A MBA will surely give you strong credibility within local communities. Financially, you can also benefit from a master's degree. Bankers are more than willing to approve loans to business owners who have MBAs. A good MBA program will also help you think like an executive, as the things you'll learn from classes will guide you in business issues and expansion strategies.

Becoming a Successful Business Owner

You should know that buying a business is a costly process. You need to spend a considerable amount of money if you want to buy a business or purchase a franchise. In either option, you need to get financing assistance for the purchase price, the inventory cost, marketing and advertising expenses, and the property or equipment lease payments. The money you will spend on continuing with your MBA can also be good capital for buying a business. Your money will be returned immediately in the form of sales income. Among the simplest ways to buy a business is to go for an established franchise. This move is safer because all planning has already been done by the parent company, and the business methods and processes were also tried and tested in the market. Everything you'll need is at your fingertips. The franchisor will guide you on the operations of the business, showing you the strategies to make the most out of your franchise. There is also a good chance that the people you will deal with at the franchisor level have already earned their MBAs.

Doing it the Right Way

Here is a guide on how to buy a business and get a MBA:

• Use your savings from college to buy a business. You may opt for an existing business or franchise because it is safer and profits come in faster.

• Learn from the experts in the industry, and save up as much as you can.

• Once the business is running smoothly and annual sales are remarkably growing, you can go back to school as a part-time student and pursue a MBA.

• Earn more profits!

The good news is that small business opportunities these days include offers to help business owners get MBAs. Also, a recent write-up in a popular business publication stated that becoming a MBA consultant or coach is a highly profitable business venture that aspiring entrepreneurs should definitely consider.

The questions now are... How many business owners in your community have MBAs? Did they earn them before or after they decided to buy a business?