If You're Fired, Will Past Employers Keep Your Secret?

Despite what some job seekers think, it is not illegal for former employers to tell reference checkers that you were fired. They can say anything they want as long as it's true.

But many companies do have policies that limit what they will reveal about past employees.

Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

I was watching an episode of CBS's "60 Minutes" recently (hmmm, maybe I watch too much TV; no wait, this is "research," so it's OK). They had a shocking story about a male hospital worker who is suspected of killing more than 40 patients in several different hospitals during the past decade. He pleaded guilty to two of the murders. 

That is very disturbing by itself... but what makes this story so incredibly worse is that his employers unwittingly helped him do it! This guy had been fired many times for a variety of reasons -- hoarding potentially harmful drugs, illegally administering unprescribed treatments, being negligent with patients -- and other alarming actions. He'd even been convicted of something (I can't recall the charge).

Yet he never had a problem getting another job at another hospital. Why? Because his former employers all had policies that prevented them from providing any information about past employees, other than job titles and dates of employment.

Apparently the hospital's lawyers were trying to protect them from lawsuits that could possibly result if something negative (and not proven as fact) was said about a past employee which prevented that employee from obtaining another job.

So even though references were checked, they revealed nothing about this criminal's activities. And he was passed along from one hospital to the next, allegedly killing patients in each one until he was finally caught.

This is a very extreme example of how such personnel policies are, in my opinion, doing more harm than good. This sword cuts both ways, after all. If you've done a truly exceptional job for your past employer, wouldn't you want that employer to be free to confirm your glowing accomplishments during a reference check?

Things are changing, thank goodness. According to the Society of Human Resource Management, employers are conducting more criminal checks than ever before. The need to provide a safe workplace is helping to drive this increase. Plus companies that were once worried about being sued by a former employee over a bad reference are now more concerned about being sued by an employer who wasn't warned about a bad employee! 

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How to Overcome Being "Overqualified"

Have you ever gone through the interview process, felt confident that you'd performed extremely well, and then heard these dreadful words: "I'm sorry, but we feel you're overqualified for this position."

Arrggh!!

When I was told that after an interview, several thoughts went through my frustration-fogged mind... What kind of crazy excuse is that for not hiring me? So what if I'm 'overqualified' -- don't employers always want to hire the person with the best qualifications? If I'm willing to take this job, overqualified or not, why is that a problem? This isn't fair! What's the real reason they don't want to hire me? 

When interviewers say you are "overqualified," here's what they are concerned about:

(1) You'll be bored in this position;

(2) You won't be satisfied with the salary they're offering;

(3) You'll leave as soon as you get a better opportunity;

(4) They'll have to go through the time-consuming and expensive process of hiring and training someone all over again.

They may or may not make you feel better about being "overqualified," but you must admit those are legitimate concerns.

If you get the "overqualified" excuse once, you'll be wary about getting it again. So if you apply for other jobs that may be at a lower level than warranted by your background, skills, education and experience, you may be tempted to "dumb down" your resume and omit things like college degrees. But lying about your background is not the way to go.

Here's a better strategy: address it head-on. Be the first one to raise the "overqualified" issue with a potential employer. If you bring it up yourself, you can discuss it openly and convince the interviewer that it won't be a problem.

They key -- as with every job interview issue -- is to anticipate and prepare. Before you go to the interview, think about what you'll say and how you will convince them that they should hire you, even if you are "overqualified."

After explaining how you will be a great asset for their company, tell them why you are applying for a lower-level position. Do not say, "I can't find anything else and I really need a job." Though that may be the case, this approach is a little too honest and will reinforce their fear that you will leave at the first opportunity.

Say something like, "You can tell that I've worked at a higher level before, but this position is exactly what I'm looking for." Then, depending on the job and your circumstances, explain why. For example:

"I've always wanted to work for your company [or in this industry], and I'm willing to take a lower-level position to get that opportunity." "It will allow me to use my skills and expand my experience in a new field." "I'm looking for something a little less stressful, with fewer responsibilities, so I can spend more time with my family." "This position provides the stability and long-term growth potential I'm looking for." "The salary is not my top priority. I'd have no problem with earning less than I've earned in the past." Be very enthusiastic about the job. Explain how you can meet their needs now and in the future as the company grows. And most important of all, convince them that you will not quit as soon as something better comes along. If you are convinced that this job would be worth it, you might even try this: offer to sign an agreement stating that you will stay on the job for a minimum of 12 months. Whether the hiring manager actually takes you up on that offer or not, it will definitely make a very positive impression! If you anticipate the "overqualified" issue and address it up front, it will not be a drawback to your success!

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Are You a S.M.A.R.T. Worker? Career Strategies to Make You More Valuable at Work

Are you concerned about your job? Do you wonder if you'll be downsized? If you are, you're not alone; the talk of the weak economy is a daily occurrence.

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In today's tumultuous workplace, no surefire strategies can guarantee that your job won't land on the chopping block. And if you choose self-employment, each day is a roller-coaster ride, to be sure. On the other hand, whether you work for someone, or for yourself, here are some S.M.A.R.T. career strategies to make yourself more valuable, in or out of recession:

Seize the Moment

Don't dwell on last year's successes or failures. "Yesterday is history," said Babatunde Olatunji. "Tomorrow is a mystery. And today? Today is a gift. That's why we call it the present." Whatever you didn't accomplish last year, now's your chance to do so in this one. And if you had a stellar year last year, don't bask in your success. (You know the drill: Those who snooze, lose). What specific ways can you help your employer (or yourself) become more productive, efficient, profitable, or competitive? Write it down! Do it!

Make Yourself Do the Uncomfortable Thing Until You Do It!

Take public speaking, for example. Maybe you are uncomfortable addressing the management team, customers, suppliers, or even your colleagues. Stretch yourself. Take a class. Practice. Learn. Or how about technology? Instead of saying I don't know much about computers, check out your local community college or enroll in an adult-education class. Have a friend tutor you; ask your 12-year-old nephew to show you some computer tips. Help is yours for the asking if you decide to take charge and do the uncomfortable until you get to a more comfortable place.

Act with a Good Attitude and Gratitude in All Things

Does your voice sound energetic, up, and on? What message does your body language send? Are you a problem-solver or a problem? Are you a complainer and a whiner? Do you act with confidence and conviction, or do you drag yourself around day after day? Are you excited about going to work? When you walk through your employer's door, are you happy about being there? Or, do you let yourself, and everyone around you, know how miserable and unhappy you are? Just for fun, keep track of your attitude for 21 days. Rate yourself on a scale of 1 (unsatisfactory) to 5 (exceeds expectations). Track your performance. What does it reveal to you? What, if anything, needs to change?

Reject the Rear-View Mirror Syndrome

Years ago, a chaplain I was taking a class with shared these words: "Don't live your life looking in the rear view mirror." And there's no better time than today to start in, start up, and start over. Do the something extra for yourself, your employer, or someone else. Do more than is required. Be willing to help out without being asked. Be the first to volunteer for the new project or assignment. Step up. Don't worry about whether it's in your job description! (It probably isn't.) And don't dwell in the past. The past has passed.

Take Time to Make Someone Matter; Make a Difference

Make it a point each day to contribute to someone's happiness, well-being or sense of self-worth. Look beyond yourself. Look around. Any ideas emerge? Maybe it's as simple as saying good morning to someone. Or perhaps listening instead of talking. Or promptly returning your phone calls. Or responding to e-mails in a timely manner. Or being courteous and thoughtful instead of abrupt and rude in your interactions. How about a random act of kindness?

Finally I had a manual for myself

Finally I had a manual for myself
"You should go work in a bookstore without customers." This heartfelt advice Jeanette was a few years ago from her friend. Jeanette is highly sensitive and she was there then too cumbersome. She is now a valued residential counselor for mentally handicapped and she has the good sense to her. "That did not matter," says Jeanette, "I have something to do."

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Jeanette has taken careful steps to get this far. She is going to find out how they could cope with its high sensitivity. An important first step was to learn and accept its high sensitivity. Jeanette: "When I read about it, I finally knew what was going on, and I had a manual for myself." She understood better why they often become so intense was tired and could feel themselves unstable.
Highly Sensitive People or HSP (highly sensitive person), by their life experiences more intense than average. Environmental influences are stronger within them. This has already filled their bucket, and have a greater chance of being burned out. Therefore take hsp are often satisfied with a simple job, hoping that she can easily maintain. But one can gevoeligerd's a tough job, but he provided well for himself.
Jeanette is in her role as a residential counselor changing services, a considerable burden on its forms. Besides her job she has caring for her daughter. To all this must be sustainable for a party they sometimes cancel or schedule a rest day after a heavy weekend shifts. She also taught her colleagues in a tactful way to tell what they sometimes need, so they can respond. It was not easy for her to accept these limits, because she wanted to be like everyone.Some quiet time provides muchSuccessful highly sensitive people are careful to stay balanced. One of them is Ada, who works full time as an account manager at an IT office. Ada benefits from pilates, tai chi and reiki. She takes them to rest as she is and makes the occasional walk. Ada: "If you feel good, you sell more, why does such a great time to rest." For her work she regularly to conferences to network and customers. Previously she found it very tiring. Since she has learned her aura (the energy field around her) to close to environmental influences, she can perfectly.Favorable working optWhen looking for a new feature, select successful hsp's favorable working conditions. For one, it is important occasionally to a quiet room to work, for others it is freedom in the layout of the work is important. Ada experience the advantage of being based targeting works. She must get a certain amount of assignments, and they can decide how it works. Thus, she one day that she feels less rest, and if necessary cancel an appointment or at home. On days when it feels good, she is way more to customers. This appears to work well, because its success rate is above average.Do something you have passion forSuccessful hsp-taking their interests seriously in the choices for training and jobs. This means that they enjoy their work. This makes them feel stronger and better maintain their energy levels. Jeanette: "I got a job as assistant cook in a form of housing for the mentally handicapped. When it became apparent that I contact with the residents was the most fun. Therefore I am training SPW (social pedagogical work) to do. Passion for doing something you really have to charge you, because you get energy. "He does not really know where his passion lies, may seek the help of a career or a good book in terms of career choices.You have talentsSuccessful hsp's to know what their talents are. Highly Sensitive people are often perceptive, compassionate, conscientious and creative. They provide an early risks and identify market opportunities. They often come very passionate and original solutions. HSP who recognize and appreciate their own talents, this is a great advantage in their career. Jeanette: "I feel the needs of the residents very well, nor can it respond properly. They have been quiet as I enter. "Also see Ada in her job as an account has advantages in its high sensitivity," I feel like the seller of other goods. This gives me very quickly a foundation of trust with customers. So I can easily sell. "An interesting jobAll in all there are prospects for hsp who desperately ask, "Will I ever go further than this boring job?" Many highly sensitive people have gradually found a guide for himself, and if successful steps in their careers can take. Jeanette was a few years ago as desperate: "I struggled with the acceptance of my high-sensitivity, I would prefer to be normal. But now I enjoy my work. "High Sensitivity in the workplace: two sides of the coin:High Sensitivity High Sensitivity and quality as an expenseToo many people feel good moods are influenced by othersMany signals Regularly pick up area in need of restCaring for others too much care for othersQuality of paramount importance have to do it perfectlyTake too much responsibility on your shouldersPleasant Trouble liaising with assertivenessIntuitive Your intuition can not feel much into actionDriven and hard work by overwork burnoutCreate new solutions you bored with repetitive workEarly trends and identify risks no response within the organizationLift the receiver to make a meaningful contribution to meaningless goals

How to Construct a CV for a New Job

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee

When it comes to applying for a new job, your CV can be one of the most important parts of the whole process. It is the first thing any employer will see about you and will steer their opinion on you as a potential employee. If it's good your CV can get you an interview every time, if it's not up to scratch then you could find it difficult to get past the first step.

A CV is your introduction. It is what you're all about in a nutshell. Therefore you need to be succinct and make sure your best features are highlighted effectively.

So what needs to be included?

Career history - Whether this is your first full-time job or you're a seasoned professional, it is important that you demonstrate the kind of work that you have been doing previously. Therefore include the names of your past/current employers, the amount of time you've been there and an overview of the role and your responsibilities.

Employers like to see that you have the skillset that matches what they're looking for or that you have shown progression. With this in mind it can be beneficial to re-write or tweak your CV to match individual job applications. This way you can make sure that you are showing off your specific strengths and not just general ones that you might usually feature.

Always put your most recent role first and then work backwards though. Don't feel like you have to include all jobs either. Your new employers probably won't be too concerned about where you had a paper round.

Education history - Again, this is all about getting your most important and recent education up front. So if you have earned a career, don't bury it beneath your GCSEs. Equally, if you have done further education, you shouldn't feel the need to include all your school grades. Simplify them and show what you got and how you fared in the key subjects - English, Maths, Sciences.

Personal profile - Employers will want to understand a little bit more about you, so feature a short explanation of who you are, what you enjoy and just give an insight into your personality. This should be tailored to each application, although many things will remain constant of course.

All of this information should really be contained within one sheet of A4 - one side or two. If you find that you're getting carried away with describing yourself, get somebody to objectively review it and ensure they are critical. It's best to get some opinions from a friend or family member rather than going straight to an employer - it can save you a lot of wasted effort.

So keep it short and sweet, make sure layout is clear and in some form of chronological order - with the newest experience first. If there are any holes in your education or work experience make sure you say what you were doing during that period. Also, if you have done some voluntary work, gained experience away from work or are a member of any professional bodies, be sure to flag these up.

How to Help Out an Unemployed Friend

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee

Losing a job is the third most stressful life event according to Answers.com. Numbers 5 and 8 are "work" and "commuting". For this survey we see that losing your job is not entirely the worst thing in the world, but it does seem so at the time. In today's economic climate everybody knows someone who has lost their job. Those who haven't may experience survivor's guilt. One way of alleviating this feeling is offering your friend or relative help, but what, specifically, can you do? You can help your unemployed friend with his/her job search and just by being a good friend.

Here are several suggestions:

Help Your Friend with the Job Search

1. Accompany them to the Unemployment Office and anywhere else they may need extra support.
2. Introduce them to your network. Recommend some friends or acquaintances that may be able to help. Talk them up to everyone you know who may be able to aid in their job search.
3. Offer technological assistance. Many people still aren't computer literate or aren't familiar with social or professional networking sites (e.g. Facebook, LinkedIn, Monster.com). Help them update their résumé, and then collaborate with them to think up new and different work options suited to their talents.
4. Give them a pep talk. This too, shall pass and they may come out even better than they went in. Often, when one door closes another one opens and the opportunity would have been missed if you're at work.
5. Suggest checking temporary-agency opportunities and contract work. This is not for everyone, but can definitely help in a pinch.

Help Your Friend on a Personal Note

1. Share a meal. Take them out for lunch or dinner, or have them to your home for a home-cooked meal (but keep it simple, it's not a celebration).
2. Encourage them to take full advantage of their "time off" by dividing their time between the job hunt and things they might not have time to do if they were employed (for example, like catching a movie, taking a walk, or taking nap in the afternoon).
3. Offer a trade. Suggest ways your friend can help you (baby-sitting, doing mid-day, around-the-house projects) in exchange for a gift card they need. Or offer free babysitting so they can get out of the house.
4. Have fun. Invite your friend to accompany you to a sporting event, a movie, or something else you both enjoy; it doesn't have to cost money.

However, the focus doesn't always have to be your friend's employment or job search status. In fact, if you talk about work too much, it could come across as nagging. Unemployed people, especially those involuntarily unemployed, may be embarrassed over their circumstances. They may end up isolating themselves because of this. Make an effort to stay in touch. Give them a call; drop them an e-mail; stay connected.

The Dream Job Seeker in You

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Remember when you were a just a geeky high school student, and everyone would ask you, what do you want to be when you grow up? Your answers were occupations like, a baseball player, an astronaut, a veterinarian, even President of the United States. Then we all grew up to work in cubicles and stare at computer screens. Not exactly your dream job. However it's not too late and it's not impossible to still reach for your dream job. But it's going to take some work. Maybe you're dream job has changed, or maybe you're still trying to figure out exactly what that dream job is. Either way, here are some tips for the dream job seeker in you.
First of all, if you're not sure exactly what your dream job is, I suggest you start making a list of what you love to do. From there, number each of them. Ask yourself, how well do you love to do each item on your list? Next, you're going to need to put them in order. Then take the list and think about corresponding professions. While you may love to watch Keeping Up With The Kardashians, it probably isn't going to turn into a full time profession. Try to focus on something that you can really see yourself earning a living at and loving.
This next step is the tough question. Is it realistic for you?
Playing in the NBA with Kobe Bryant is going to be tough to pull off. (Although for some, this dream will definitely come true.) However, being a sports writer that covers the Lakers might be something you'd be good at and is actually attainable. Once you've decided what's realistic and what isn't, you'll need to decide what you need to do to get there. Does this job require a degree? Do you need to get more experience in your related field? If you're not sure exactly how one becomes *insert dream profession here*... you'll need to start your research.
Researching your dream job can start as simply as putting in a search term in Google. It may mean you need to hit up your local book store or library. Something else you may want to consider is finding a career counselor to refer you to someone in the industry you can talk to. Drawing off of someone's personal experiences is priceless. There are career counselors at most schools. If you've been out of school for a while, try organizations like S.C.O.R.E. for entrepreneurs. Or look up your local career counseling center. There are tons located all over the U.S. Once again, there are lots of great resources out there, you just need to find them and take advantage of what they have to offer.

This next step is easy. After your research is done, find someone successful in the same field you want to emulate. Perhaps they have the dream resume to your dream career. If you're thinking of fashion, it could be Marc Jacobs, or for business, it could be Rob Drydek (yep, he's a crazy good businessman). You don't need to meet this person, you don't need to ever speak to them and you don't need to be "just like them". Remember this is YOUR dream job, not someone else's. What you need to do is find out how they got to where they are, and set similar goals that pertain to you. And yes, the next step is to write them down and keep track of your progress.
The last thing to remember is to not be your own dream killer. If you tell yourself, it's an unachievable dream, it's going to be. Always stay positive, and stay focused.

Hot Tips for Projecting Professionalism at Your Next Job Interview

By Sara Parent

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy

A job interview can be a stressful experience if you don't know what to do, or if you aren't used to being in that situation. But there are some things you can do to help you interact with your interviewer more professionally. A successful interview has as much to do with how you present yourself as the skills you bring to a company.

When meeting someone for the first time, there are some simple rules to remember. We went to Anne Sowden of Here's Looking At You, a Toronto-based image consulting firm, for some suggestions on how job seekers can project a professional image.

She offers these tips for your next interview:

• Stand up straight and keep your shoulders back. This makes a huge difference when making a first impression AND you'll feel better.
• If you're not sure how to shake hands properly, get someone to help you. There's nothing worse than a bad handshake.
• When shaking hands, stand up, make eye contact and smile. Smiling conveys an accepting attitude towards others.
• Maintain eye contact with the interviewer but look away at regular intervals to make sure you aren't staring.
• If you're concerned about clammy hands. Keep a tissue in your pocket and gently squeeze it before shaking hands.
• When receiving someone's business card, leave it on the desk/table in front of you and look at it during the meeting. It's one way to make sure you get the person's name correct.
• When sitting, don't slouch. This sends a message that you don't care about being with someone.
• Be prepared. Whether it's an interview, meeting or networking. Have a plan of what you want to accomplish and do it.
• Practice introducing yourself. Get a friend to help you.

Remember that, for better or worse, first opinions are formed very quickly. Sowden says that the image you project can affect your ability to inspire trust and confidence. She adds that it also gives others information by which they judge our credibility and professionalism.

Knowing how to act and presenting yourself professionally through your attire are critical image builders. Sowden offers these tips on dressing for business:

• Buy the best you can afford in classic styles.
• The more skin you show, the less professional you look.
• Err on the side of caution-dress up rather than down; dress conservatively.
• Research the dress code, the position you're interviewing for and the person you will be meeting.
• To project expertise, wear a jacket.
• Wear clothing that is comfortable and makes you feel good.
• Focus on basics-jackets, skirts, slacks in a neutral colour. Black, navy and charcoal project power and authority.
• Check skirt lengths. A skirt around knee length is flattering for most women and looks professional. It also doesn't expose too much leg when sitting down. If your skirt has a split, check how much leg you expose when sitting down.
• Avoid plunging necklines, sheer fabrics, and clinging knits. Knits cling and find body fat even if you think you don't have any.
• Keep jewellery simple. No clanging, dangling or jangling items.
• Carry either a briefcase or a purse, not both. No knapsack.

Company Research - What You Need To Know

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It's critical when you're looking for a job that you research the company you're applying for. It's a good idea in many ways and certainly worth the time investment.

Before You Send In Your Resume:

You've seen a position advertised by XYZ Company and the job sounds great. One of the first things you should do is research the employer. By having some knowledge about the company you are applying to, you'll have some idea if this is a company you are interested in. You'll also know if they are financially stable, how their business works, and what their business is. Then, you can make an informed decision as to whether or not you should apply for the position and whether or not you would seriously consider a job offer from this company.

At The Interview:

Want a better shot at answering those tough interview questions? Know the company you're interviewing for. Common interview questions like "Why should we hire you?" and "What do you think of our corporate culture?" are kind of hard to answer when you don't know anything about the company. If you want to come off more polished and prepared and give your interviewer answers with substance, take some time to research the company. Why should they hire you? Maybe because you've got extensive and direct experience dealing with the same type of products, vendors, and clients (if you do, of course!) How do you know what their major products are and who they deal with? You've researched it!

Finding out their corporate structure and how a company operates will help you decide how to answer questions by allowing you to place emphasis on those things the company views as important.

By having some knowledge of the company, your answers can be substantiated by not only explaining your past skills and experience, but by relating them to the company and its activities.

When you know a company's processes and hiring style, you'll also have a better idea of advancement opportunties and the potential for growth.

How To Research:

You can find information about about companies virtually anywhere. Look for the company's Web site, put their name through a search engine, or talk to colleagues and relatives. If the company is public, you can find out financial information and reports on their Web site or by visiting a financial Web site.

Being prepared is the first step in feeling confident in both applying for a job and in your success at the job interview. By researching a company, you'll be in a better position to answer tough interview questions and you'll be better able to relate your past experience to what the company is looking for.

How to Ask for a Raise

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Asking for a raise can be stressful. Being prepared will help you to focus on what you want. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to ask your employer for a raise.

Be Realistic:

What are people doing your job getting paid? If you have a good idea of what those in your industry are being paid, you can make a fair assessment of what your salary should be. Keep in mind that a $60,000 salary being paid to someone in Toronto is very different from a $60,000 salary being paid to someone in Nova Scotia. Salary scales and rates vary from area to area and you might not make as much if you live in a smaller area. Adjust your expectations accordingly.

Do You Deserve a Raise?

Of course, we all feel like we're worth a lot, but simply working at the same rate of pay for a certain amount of time doesn't necessarily mean you deserve a raise. Just showing up for work and doing what's required of you doesn't necessarily entitle you to ask for a raise. Make a list of your accomplishments and why you deserve a raise. It will go a long way to justifying your request if you can concretely show your boss why you are valuable to the company.

Decide What You Want:

Are you looking for a certain percent wage increase? Decide what rate you'd like, and be prepared to negotiate. Conventional negotiations usually suggest that you start with a little more than you want, then be prepared to accept a little less. Though it's tempting to ask for a lot inititally, be careful because you risk being turned down altogether.

If your company isn't prepared to pay you what you want, have a back-up plan that includes either no wage increase or a smaller wage increase, plus more vacation time, paid days off, or other perks. This is a good plan that might get you a little bit of what you want, especially if you know your boss is going to say he cannot afford to pay you any more money.

Pick The Right Time:

Scheduling a meeting with your boss right after a budget restraint seminar is probably not the best time. Pick a time when you know your boss will be relaxed and in a good mood. Make sure there aren't any stressful situations occuring at the office at the time you want to ask for a raise. Pick a time that's opportune for you too, such as after you've just successfully completed a big project, or during a favourable employee review.

Make Your Case:

Present your case professionally and with confidence. Don't let it get personal by telling your boss what you need the money for. It's not your boss's problem that you need more money. Never get angry or present ultimatums to your boss. Instead, prepare your case. Have all the documentation you need to back-up your request. Focus on your own achievements. Don't worry about what others in your office are getting paid. Be clear about what you want and be prepared to substantiate your claims of being a valuable employee with hard facts. If you're in sales, show your employer that you've met or exceeded your quotas. If you're in the service industry, present your boss with favourable customer reviews or examples of how you went beyond your job description to help a client.

Follow-Up:

If you don't get what you want initially, ask for suggestions from your employer as to what they could provide you with instead.

If your boss decides to review your case and delays a decision, suggest a time frame for meeting again. This will help keep your request in the forefront of your boss's mind, and your boss will know that eventually, your request will have to be addressed and resolved.

High Vacancy Rates Leading to Excess Office Space

By Andre Nixon

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy 

There is currently an excess of office space in Las Vegas leading to a high rate of vacancy. The rates are in the range of 17 to 19% which is very high. The financial meltdown in U.S had affected the real estate domain pretty badly, leading to shrinkage in demand of office space in Las Vegas. In the year 2008, the work space required touched a low figure of 637,800 square feet. People need to wait till the end of 2010 for the vacancy rates to get lower and approach the normal rate of 10%. New office products are already being visible online in the current year which is a healthy change from the past year. With so much work space lying vacant, the construction work of many executive office suites has naturally been kept on hold.

The vacancy rates have already started to decrease and new employment opportunities are being created gradually. With the currently pending constructions works again being started, one can expect many of the ongoing projects to be completed within the next 9 to 12 months. The market is thereby expected to stabilize along with recovery in all the major industrial and financial domains. With the prevailing uncertainty, offices owned by banks are involved in most of the sales being done now. Banks are also trying to seize this opportunity by concentrating on sale of office space in Las Vegas. They are enhancing their portfolios with competition from the private players being less. The private bodies / individuals are waiting for the situation to be better.

It is worth mentioning that in 2008 the commercial real-estate markets were facing a major credit crunch. But in the current financial year, the previously hesitant financial institutions are offering real-estate loans to those possessing adequate quantity of equity and having a good credit / business history. Currently the credit card companies are following a safety-first approach and keeping their money intact. The earlier they start relaxing this approach the faster can the business recovery in office rental and office space be achieved. The average rental charge of office space in Las Vegas is about $2.5 per square foot. Many projects have already been completed, like the 65,000 square-feet Hughes Airport Center, the 144,300 square-feet Eastgate Plaza II (Houston), etc.

Commercial offices are right now apprehensive of buying any office properties and are rather willing to get office space on lease. With every passing day, one can notice an improvement in the housing market situation. Executive office suites are mainly being provided in Henderson, Summerlin, Central Vegas, and near the airport. The highest vacancy rate was noticed in the northern part of Las Vegas with figures touching an abysmal 31.6%. Although any category and size of business can get office space in Las Vegas, commercial / business real estate is not much in demand in downtown Las Vegas. Shared office space, temporary work space, furnished units, serviced units are all provided in Las Vegas by the real estate agents / brokers. Monthly and short-term lease options are being preferred by businesses rather than long-term leases.

Marketing Secrets Revealed For Presentation Folders

By John Ray Daniels

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy

Presentation folders of course are one of those great tools that you can use for general marketing. From creating press kits and developing report giveaways, custom folder printing has been a good staple for improving those and other essential business activities. So it is important when you do folder printing that you make those folders as perfect as they can be for marketing.

If you do not know anything however about this kind of marketing, do not fret. Let me reveal to you a few marketing secrets about presentation folders so that you can design and print great presentation folders that really pack a punch and help you with your business.

1. Simpler is better for most markets - That is right. For most audiences, presentation folders or custom folders should ideally be designed in a simple manner. Most marketers have discovered of course that complicated presentation folders seem to overwhelm most readers, leading them to form a different idea of what the message of the folder could be.

Simpler and more direct style designs for custom folders that accurately project the message the creator needs is better. Beyond that, since these are just only folders, most of the important details should be focused on the content itself, the color folder should only be an enticement for opening the inner content. So make sure you remember this and try to use simpler and easier to understand designs for your folders.

2. Folder sizes must be deliberate - Another marketing secret that you should know is that a custom folder size must be set deliberately. Do not just design a color folder with any kind of folder template that you have with you. There are different standard sizes of color posters and their different folds and pockets. Each is ideal for certain kind of content and distribution plan.

That is why it is best to always be deliberate with your choice of folder size so that you can optimize it for your plans. Print smaller pocket folders for promotional kits, and print more formal larger color folders for the big objectives like press kit distribution or report deployment to clients. When you pick the right size, everything should be easier and you should have a smoother ride with your folder deployment.

3. Lead with lighting and color - Now, on the design side of things, one great market secret you should know is that you can actually lead people's attentions with your folder design. By adding lighter shades to certain areas, or contrasting a certain spot with the rest of the color folder design, you can cause people to immediately look at those design locations. Done correctly, you can precisely deliver a powerful marketing message with your custom folders, even if the readers have not opened and read their content yet. This is a great marketing trick that you should always try to integrate with your custom folder designs.

4. Be straightforward with the text content - When it comes to the text content of your custom folders, a good marketing principle is to always be straight with its composition. Do not linger with your message, and most decidedly, do not make it too long. People's attention spans with color folders are very quick and you will have only seconds to deliver your marketing message.

Great! Use this marketing knowledge well for your folder prints. Try them out on your own folder printing and watch the marketing magic happen.