Saturday, October 29, 2011

Be Prepared--Create Positive Opportunities

It's still October, but snow has arrived in Pittsburgh, bringing with it a lesson--always be prepared. That's a good lesson for all of us to remember every day. Be prepared. You never know what opportunities or misfortunes might show up on any given day. I prefer to look on the positive side and think each day will bring new opportunities.

Many people miss opportunities they don't realize were presented to them until long after they are gone. Don't let that happen to you. Be on the lookout for opportunities that will improve your personal and your professional life. Here are some ways you can create your own opportunities or take advantage of ones presented to you.


  • Help others improve their lives

  • Bring happiness to others

  • Assist coworkers with their tasks

  • Assist the boss with special projects or find other ways to make his job easier

  • Ask for help when you need it

  • Reflect on the positives in your life and be thankful

  • Focus on the important things

  • Commit to being open to opportunities

With an awareness of what is going on around us, we can all be better prepared.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Job Fairs and the Employment Search

I took several of my students to a job fair at a local university, which turned out to be a rewarding experience for these students. They handed out resumes and business cards and shook hands with employers. They received a few encouraging remarks and were asked to submit resumes or go on the companies' online site and fill out an application. Some even scheduled interviews. I received value input from employers that I can pass along to future students.

I sometimes hear people speak negatively of job fairs. Isn't it better, though, to get out and meet employers and other job seekers than to skip the opportunity? It only takes one contact to get that job.

Job fairs may not be high on your list during your employment search, but they should be. There is a lot to be said for personal contact and building a network. Even if you do not get an offer for an interview or are not asked to fill out an application, you are acticely looking for work. The more times you get out there, the more chances you have of making the right contact for you and landing a job.

Remember, job fairs can provide an opportunity to:


  • Network with other professionals

  • Meet other job seekers and trade job hunting strategies

  • Meet employers face to face and submit a resume

  • Put yourself out there in the employment arena.
Don't discount opportunities to find employment, especially in this tight job market. You must be persistent.