RSS Feed for Albertajobcentre.ca - Career Advice Articles - Career Planning http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning en-ca Copyright (c)2012 BC Jobs Online Inc. All Rights Reserved support@bcjobs.ca Whether you’re gearing up to graduate or there’s a hiring fair in your area, the calendar year is front-loaded with job fairs. Most people think of job fairs as over crowded, competitive marketplaces with few opportunities compared to candidates. This may be why most people who attend job fairs do so casually, and come under dressed and under prepared, and so their negativity becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. The good news is, by taking extra time to prepare, you can turn stand out from the competition and make your mark with a standout company. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/why-you-should-attend-a-job-fair http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/why-you-should-attend-a-job-fair Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:56:20 PDT No matter how hard you work, how early you arrive and how late you stay at the office each day, no one gets more than twenty-four hours in their day. Everyone wants to be more organized, more efficient, more effective, and better at using their time. There are many ways of learning and honing those skills and everyone has their own challenges and priorities. Instead of telling you what to do to be “highly effective” professionally, whatever that means to you, here is a list of 7 habits that are guaranteed to keep dragging you down. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/7-habits-of-highly-ineffective-people-on-the-job http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/7-habits-of-highly-ineffective-people-on-the-job Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:17:10 PDT So you’ve been unemployed for a while now, and you’re tearing your hair out with boredom and frustration. Read our tips on how to stay sane and motivated while looking for that dream job: http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/stay-sane-while-on-the-job-hunt http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/stay-sane-while-on-the-job-hunt Wed, 09 Nov 2011 09:19:43 PDT It’s scary starting a new job. For some, the first day is preceded by a pitiful night’s sleep leaving the apprehensive newbie groggy rather than laser-focused. And then there are those who leap in in a blaze of glory to prove themselves worthy … and step on toes along the way, which leads to the need for damagecontrol! Is there a better way to start a new job? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/10-steps-to-a-smooth-start-in-a-new-job http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/10-steps-to-a-smooth-start-in-a-new-job Wed, 26 Oct 2011 10:05:22 PDT How do you handle rejection in the job search? Do you need some down-time so that you can recoup your energy in order to refocus your job hunt? Staying motivated to push past the WALL of rejection is hard, but as long distance runners know, a lot of the motivation is mind over matter. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/staying-motivated-even-during-the-downtime http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/staying-motivated-even-during-the-downtime Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:08:07 PDT Whether you are looking for seasonal employment or searching for your next career opportunity, it is important to adapt your job hunting techniques to gain a competitive edge this summer. A common myth exists that no hiring gets done once the thermostat rises; however this isn’t always the case. With important initiatives often commencing after Labour Day, many companies need to increase their headcount now to anticipate higher workloads. So what are some tips to find a job as the temperature rises? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/hot-fun-in-the-city-how-to-keep-your-job-search-cool-this-summer http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/hot-fun-in-the-city-how-to-keep-your-job-search-cool-this-summer Wed, 27 Jul 2011 09:59:40 PDT Q:?I am returning to work after taking time out to raise a family. The most recent contract positions I have held have all been obtained through word-of-mouth. What I struggle with is the anonymity of the Internet as a selection /recruitment tool and the level of service provided by recruitment agencies. What do you feel is the most successful way for mature age job seekers to approach finding employment? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/mature-age-job-seeker-tips http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/mature-age-job-seeker-tips Wed, 13 Jul 2011 05:56:49 PDT The 3 “P”s = Planning + Preparation + Proactive Participation! While these three steps may sound simplistic enough, unfortunately they are not always all carried out! I can give you some clear examples… http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/3-essential-job-search-strategies http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/3-essential-job-search-strategies Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:37:13 PDT We’ve put together a list of Free Webinars being offered during June: What You Don't Know Could Hurt Your Next Career Move... What's "The Plan" for the Unexpected? Top Tips for Landing a Job after 50 Beyond Job Satisfaction http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/free-career-webinars-offered-during-june http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/free-career-webinars-offered-during-june Wed, 01 Jun 2011 09:27:04 PDT Professional training and development make the difference. Teams on top of their game are more engaged. Developing your professional skills is an excellent idea in any economy but particularly important when the labour market is highly competitive. With more players on the scene, those who continually invest in their own skills and talents have significant advantages. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/are-you-at-the-top-of-your-game http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/are-you-at-the-top-of-your-game Wed, 23 Mar 2011 09:22:32 PDT For something a little different this week we’ve put together a list of Free Webinars being offered during March: http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/free-webinars-offered-during-march http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/free-webinars-offered-during-march Wed, 16 Mar 2011 10:02:40 PDT Maybe you’ve heard the “golden voice” of YouTube sensation, Ted Williams. He’s the formerly homeless, formerly unemployed man who was hired — literally off the street — by the Cleveland Cavaliers for his dream job as an announcer. Other job offers are still pouring in from around the country. If you’re unemployed, you can learn a lot from Ted Williams’ Guerrilla Job Search. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/guerrilla-job-search-secrets http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/guerrilla-job-search-secrets Wed, 09 Mar 2011 11:07:16 PDT I have received many enquiries of late regarding the recently-implemented opportunity for self-employed persons to opt into the Employment Insurance program. It seems to me that the criteria for participation and the impact of opting in are not widely understood as of yet. Historically, only true employees were eligible for EI coverage. Not having that aspect of our social security net to fall back on was just one of the many risks of being self-employed and operating as an independent contractor. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/e-i-options-for-the-self-employed http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/e-i-options-for-the-self-employed Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:10:44 PDT Changes to the Criminal Record Legislation and More Since Bill C-23A was introduced in Parliament in 2010, there have been a lot of changes to pardons and criminal records legislation. How does that affect you? Here are the statistics: http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/under-construction http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/under-construction Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:38:38 PDT Seth Godin wrote a blog post this week about the fact that people hiring for jobs should realize that past performance is the best predictor of future performance and not be swayed by the way a person dresses or how they can spin a tale. As a psychologist, I know this to be the ultimate truth as much as sometimes, wish it were not, “If only she’d…. show up for work…not drink so much… get along with the team … complete what she starts….she’d be great” http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/need-a-job-want-more-work-get-a-blog--now http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/need-a-job-want-more-work-get-a-blog--now Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:36:25 PDT It is that time of year, the time when people vow to lose weight, eat healthy, quit a bad habit, or improve their career. For some, this might mean finding a new job, whereas for others, they may be looking for a salary increase, greater responsibility or promotion to that coveted corner office. The problem with resolutions, however, is that they are often created and not followed through upon. The secret is making easy to accomplish, measurable goals and sticking to them throughout January and hopefully the rest of the year. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/new-year-new-career-in-a-minute-or-less http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/new-year-new-career-in-a-minute-or-less Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:02:27 PDT As the economy works to pull itself out of recession, there are still many Canadians who are struggling to find work. These individuals hail from the blue collar factories to the white collar boardrooms and comprise everyone in between. It has been a challenging period for many, although with long-term joblessness on the rise, the effects can be devastating. The Globe & Mail has created a comprehensive report looking at this very issue. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/how-long-is-too-long http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/how-long-is-too-long Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:21:35 PDT Seasonal jobs are good for more than earning extra spending money or awesome discounts at retailers for holiday shopping (though, let’s face it – who could resist based on that alone?). In fact, taking on a seasonal job can be a great stepping stone on the way to beginning or getting back into a career. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/-benefits-of-a-seasonal-job http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/-benefits-of-a-seasonal-job Thu, 21 Oct 2010 10:05:09 PDT In a National Post article by Andrew Mayeda, he discusses the challenges faced by the Millennials -- those born after 1980 -- in finding a job in today’s economy. Specifically he profiles an individual with a master’s degree in international affairs and volunteer experience working abroad for non-profit organizations. At 27 she is finding it challenging to find full-time employment and has been forced to take a contract job. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/the-death-of-the-canadian-dream-not-necessarily http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/the-death-of-the-canadian-dream-not-necessarily Fri, 08 Oct 2010 11:32:04 PDT Each year for the past nine years CareerXroads has conducted a survey about the sources of new hires. The most recent survey (full report available here) solicited source of hire stats for 43 large companies, who collectively filled 176,000 positions in 2009. While the sample size is small, and arguments can and have been made about the accuracy and applicability of the statistics, the survey results are nevertheless revealing, and have some important implications for how jobseekers invest their job hunt energy. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/five-statistics-that-matter-for-your-job-search http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/five-statistics-that-matter-for-your-job-search Wed, 29 Sep 2010 10:40:18 PDT Nothing dispels that rosy, post-vacation glow faster than returning to a mountain of unfinished paperwork on your desk, a barrage of messages in your voice mail and dozens of missives in your e-mail inbox. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/work-productivity-making-a-smooth-return-from-vacation http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/work-productivity-making-a-smooth-return-from-vacation Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:35:14 PDT Business casual dress code interpretations vary widely. What fits the business casual dress code at one firm may not pass at another. Relaxed business attire, one of today’s most popular workplace perks, has made http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/business-casual-dress-code-understanding-business-casual-attire http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/business-casual-dress-code-understanding-business-casual-attire Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:37:16 PDT For an adult, going back to school involves a delicate balancing act. Going back to school in some form can have a huge effect on your career. Ongoing professional development is vital to your career growth, http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/adult-going-back-to-school-should-you-go-back-to-school http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/adult-going-back-to-school-should-you-go-back-to-school Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:40:53 PDT Job skill training can make or break your career. Prospective employees should ask some pointed questions about job skill training and career development opportunities before accepting an offer. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/job-skill-training-how-to-ask-about-job-skill-training http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/job-skill-training-how-to-ask-about-job-skill-training Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:42:33 PDT Job search database tips can help you improve your chances of finding the right job. When you use a job search database, you can view a wide range of opportunities at once. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/job-search-database-tips--searching-a-job-database http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/job-search-database-tips--searching-a-job-database Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:44:00 PDT International summer jobs provide the opportunity to work in a foreign country. Many students pursue international summer jobs as a way to build language skills, learn about new cultures, gain global work experience and fund a trip abroad. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/international-summer-jobs--summer-jobs http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/international-summer-jobs--summer-jobs Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:47:10 PDT Jobs for people with disabilities do exist. But people with many different types of disabilities often find job search a frustrating process that creates unforeseen barriers. You can sometimes feel that your skills and abilities are being ignored and that people are looking only at your challenges. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/jobs-for-people-with-disabilities http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/jobs-for-people-with-disabilities Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:51:11 PDT Returning to work after years away from the workforce poses special challenges. You may fear that employers will see negatives in your lack of work history. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/returning-to-work--returning-to-work-when-you-re-entry-level-at-40 http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/returning-to-work--returning-to-work-when-you-re-entry-level-at-40 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:52:58 PDT Personal motivation may be the key to your career success. Personal motivation often overrules other traits. You may think you can excel in business with talent, skills and knowledge alone, but it’s your day-to-day work habits that are the key to maximizing these traits. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/personal-motivation--finding-personal-motivation-at-work http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/personal-motivation--finding-personal-motivation-at-work Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:46:58 PDT Returning to work after maternity leave becomes complicated when you don’t have a job to which to return. Many mothers take an extended break from the paid workforce while raising their children. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:49:02 PDT Professional development tips remain key, regardless of where you are in your career. Continually developing your professional skills is critical to maintaining your marketability and shoring up your job security. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/professional-development-tips-take-control-of-your-professional-career http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/professional-development-tips-take-control-of-your-professional-career Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:51:15 PDT Tax preparer jobs and other opportunities for accounting and finance professionals to explore temporary and project work exist year round. Still, tax season presents perhaps the best chance to investigate jobs in the tax preparer career path. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/tax-preparer-jobs--tax-season-is-perfect-for-project-work http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/tax-preparer-jobs--tax-season-is-perfect-for-project-work Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:53:00 PDT Your boss just asked you to write a presentation for a conference she is attending in three days. You’re flattered, but this is just the latest in a series of last-minute projects you’ve been assigned. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-advice/career-planning/coping-with-burnout http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-advice/career-planning/coping-with-burnout Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:56:52 PDT Career setbacks happen to everyone. Whether it’s a poor performance review, a missed promotion or the loss of a job, professional difficulties have challenged even the most accomplished executives. Although these kinds of events may make you doubt yourself, the true test of success is in the rebound. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/rebounding-from-a-career-setback http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/rebounding-from-a-career-setback Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:35:49 PDT Every journey begins with knowing where you are, choosing a destination, and planning how to get there. Plan for your future success. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/inspired-by-a-dream-goal-setting http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/inspired-by-a-dream-goal-setting Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:04:25 PDT If you’re looking for a new job or trying to think of new career options one key exercise for you to do is a skills inventory. This inventory is a list of the skills you bring with you from all of your past work, volunteer and personal experiences. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/skills-inventory http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/skills-inventory Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:05:03 PDT You’re deep in talks with a company in Vancouver. They desperately want you to join them. You are flattered, very interested, but something in your gut tells you to be cautious. Have you considered all the options? What’s missing from your checklist? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/considering-a-move-to-vancouver-bc-canada-know-what-you-re-getting-into http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/considering-a-move-to-vancouver-bc-canada-know-what-you-re-getting-into Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:06:01 PDT A Career Portfolio is an evolving collection of documents showing your professional development, work history, qualifications, and accomplishments. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/career-portfolios http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/career-portfolios Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:07:51 PDT Approaching retirement age doesn’t mean an end to your career. In fact, as a professional with decades of experience under your belt, you may have more employment opportunities today than ever before. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/advice-for-older-bolder-job-seekers http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/advice-for-older-bolder-job-seekers Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:08:40 PDT Striking a balance between job and family demands is a common dilemma for working parents. Dads and moms alike are juggling deadlines and play-dates, presentations and soccer practice, business travel and family trips. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/finding-professional-and-personal-balance- http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/finding-professional-and-personal-balance- Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:11:28 PDT You’ve been offered a job that will require you to relocate across the country to manage a division for a new company. Or maybe you’re considering a transfer to a new location with your current employer. Should you accept the job? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/career-relocation--is-it-a-good-move http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/career-relocation--is-it-a-good-move Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:12:47 PDT Laid off recently because her firm went out of business, Mary is searching for a position with a company where she hopes history won’t repeat itself. Not only is she looking for an employer with a solid financial footing, but she also would prefer a job that doesn’t require her to work both nights and weekends. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/finding-your-balance http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-tools/career-planning/finding-your-balance Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:13:35 PDT Over the past few years, many workers have seen slim raises or none at all. But now with a strong shift to the economy and ongoing optimism, you may be considering asking your boss for a much-deserved bump in pay. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-advice/career-planning/how-to-ask-for-a-raise-increasing-the-odds-of-earning-the-pay-you-seek http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-centre/career-advice/career-planning/how-to-ask-for-a-raise-increasing-the-odds-of-earning-the-pay-you-seek Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:14:26 PDT Who is looking out for your career - your boss? Probably not. Your accountant? Doubtful. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/content/index.cfm?objectid=7811356E-1372-5900-AD35678E0E353679 http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/content/index.cfm?objectid=7811356E-1372-5900-AD35678E0E353679 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:16:03 PDT Work lives are constantly changing, just like our personal lives. Sometimes, just when you really love it, shift happens. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/content/index.cfm?objectid=7813E9AD-1372-5900-ADFF11CA0B5E649B http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/content/index.cfm?objectid=7813E9AD-1372-5900-ADFF11CA0B5E649B Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:17:47 PDT No matter what your reason for seeking employment, searching for a job is hard work: scanning help-wanted listings, researching companies, sending out resumes and attending multiple interviews can be a lengthy process. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/content/index.cfm?objectid=78146763-1372-5900-AD8F5EFF0EF03D50 http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/content/index.cfm?objectid=78146763-1372-5900-AD8F5EFF0EF03D50 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:19:40 PDT It's all negotiable. Every new job - every performance review, in fact - is an opportunity to negotiate base salary, various kinds of bonuses, benefits, stock options, and other incentives that add to job satisfaction and provide financial security. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/everything-is-negotiable http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/everything-is-negotiable Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:26:12 PDT Career planning goals contribute to your success. But, when many people think of New Year’s resolutions, they concentrate on personal goals such as losing weight or joining a gym. However, it’s also critical to make setting career planning goals a priority. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/career-planning-goals--make-some-resolutions http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/career-planning-goals--make-some-resolutions Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:32:08 PDT Work productivity killers – what’s zapping your work productivity? Meetings that run long. A computer bug that takes half a day to resolve. Organizational red tape. We can all recognize snags that sap our work productivity. But do we identify less obvious work productivity suckers that waste time and energy just as easily? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/work-productivity-killers--a-cure-for-work-productivity-killers http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice/career-planning/work-productivity-killers--a-cure-for-work-productivity-killers Thu, 12 Apr 2007 15:06:35 PDT Vacation request on your mind? With summer upon us, chances are someone in your department is on vacation this week. If you have your own dreams of getting away, your first hurdle is a vacation request. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/vacation-request-how-to-make-a-vacation-request- http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/vacation-request-how-to-make-a-vacation-request- Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:34:01 PDT Using emotional intelligence can help you succeed in your job search. But what is emotional intelligence, and why is it that success in life sometimes seems unrelated to intelligence? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/using-emotional-intelligence-in-your-job-search http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/using-emotional-intelligence-in-your-job-search Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:34:47 PDT Getting fired, sacked, canned or axed hurts. It does nothing for your self-esteem and it doesn’t look great on your resume. You’re always better off leaving your position on your own terms than getting fired. But how can you tell when your job may be on the line? Here are 10 things to look for. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/getting-fired-10-ways-to-tell-it-s-time-to-find-another-job http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/getting-fired-10-ways-to-tell-it-s-time-to-find-another-job Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:35:33 PDT When you’re quitting your job, timing is crucial. Many people think the best time to change jobs is when they no longer feel challenged, when they have a personality conflict or when the company they work for no longer aligns with their values. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/quitting-your-job--how-to-leave-your-job-on-a-high-note http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/quitting-your-job--how-to-leave-your-job-on-a-high-note Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:36:29 PDT Online job banks and job search databases use keywords to catalogue and sort the wide variety of jobs posted by employers so that they are easily searchable by job seekers like you. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/using-keywords-for-your-job-search http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/using-keywords-for-your-job-search Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:37:12 PDT Give your career a boost by targeting the most in-demand jobs in Canada. According to JobFutures, the jobs with the best prospects through 2009 will come from science and engineering, health and caring and law. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/the-most-in-demand-jobs-in-canada http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/the-most-in-demand-jobs-in-canada Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:37:57 PDT In the last few decades, the world of work has dramatically changed how people earn their living and plan their work lives. This new labour market is evolving at accelerating speed as old industrial-age jobs are replaced by knowledge-based work and information technology continues to alter how we work, play and learn. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/planning-a-career-for-the-new-economy http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/planning-a-career-for-the-new-economy Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:42:41 PDT Want to work in Canada? Non-Canadians can become eligible to work in Canada by becoming a Permanent Resident of Canada or obtaining a temporary work permit: http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/want-to-work-in-canada-here-s-how http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/want-to-work-in-canada-here-s-how Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:43:43 PDT You’re 40-something. You’re underemployed, or worse unemployed, you’re tired of the daily grind, you’re bored (or frightened) and you’re wondering where your future went. Join the club. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/mid-life-crisis-changing-careers-mid-stream http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/mid-life-crisis-changing-careers-mid-stream Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:45:10 PDT Getting fired used to be something that many people figured would ruin their career. Obviously, getting terminated isn’t an ideal situation but it’s certainly something that can be dealt with. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/getting-fired-strategies-for-dealing-with-getting-terminated http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/getting-fired-strategies-for-dealing-with-getting-terminated Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:46:05 PDT Want to run your own business? Consider a career as an independent consultant. Be your own boss, call your own shots, work when and how you want – sound good? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/could-you-become-a-consultant http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/could-you-become-a-consultant Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:48:08 PDT Having second thoughts is not uncommon when you have recently changed jobs. The 4-6 weeks after switching jobs are when you will most likely think that you made a mistake. Shortly after starting a new job, it isn’t out of the ordinary to have second thoughts and wonder if you made a mistake by leaving your previous employer and/or joining your new employer. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/second-thoughts-after-changing-jobs http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/second-thoughts-after-changing-jobs Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:49:51 PDT Many employers schedule their recruiting efforts according to a specific recruitment cycle. The recruitment cycle may be determined by factors such as seasonal needs, graduation cycles of local schools, annual holidays or other pre-determined growth periods. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/recruitment-cycles--the-best-time-to-apply-for-a-job http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/recruitment-cycles--the-best-time-to-apply-for-a-job Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:51:35 PDT Labour market information is information about the world of work, including about different types of work and learning opportunities. It also includes labour market trends and forecasts about future employment growth http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/-labour-market-information-can-change-your-life http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/-labour-market-information-can-change-your-life Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:53:30 PDT A career coach guides you through a four part process to identify a suitable career direction. This process includes assessing yourself, imagining your ideal future, researching career ideas and plans, and launching your career plan. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/the-services-of-a-career-coach http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/the-services-of-a-career-coach Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:54:20 PDT Can’t find a job and wondering how that could be possible in an economic boom? No matter how great the economy is, there’s always going to be a certain rate of unemployment. People will graduate from school, leave the military, move to new cities, quit jobs, finish seasonal work, wrap up temporary work, transition from full-time parenting and so on. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/can-t-find-a-job-despite-the-boom-here-s-what-to-do http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/can-t-find-a-job-despite-the-boom-here-s-what-to-do Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:55:12 PDT Canadian employers expect a positive hiring climate for the October to December period of 2008 according to the latestresults of the Manpower Employment Outlook Survey, the most extensive, forward-looking employment survey in the world. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/manpower-employment-outlook-survey-reveals-employers-expect-a-positive-hiring-climate-for-the-fourth-quarter-of-2008 http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/manpower-employment-outlook-survey-reveals-employers-expect-a-positive-hiring-climate-for-the-fourth-quarter-of-2008 Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:47:00 PDT Generations in the workplace – the workworld is abuzz with discussions of generational workstyles in the New Economy. Today, you can find Millennials, Gen C, Baby Boomers and Veterans in the same organization, sometimes even on the same team. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/generations-in-the-workplace http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/generations-in-the-workplace Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:10:03 PDT It’s the last resort for the frustrated employee who is burned out and fed up with his boss — the final step before walking out the door and finding a job elsewhere. It’s the employer complaint letter, directed to higher authorities within the organization. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/employer-complaint-letters-think-twice http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/employer-complaint-letters-think-twice Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:11:44 PDT Employers are looking up job seekers online – make no mistake. And, while many employers seek out job candidates through searches of online databases, an increasing number turn to the Internet to screen out potential hires. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/employers-are-searching-your-online-profiles http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/employers-are-searching-your-online-profiles Wed, 17 Dec 2008 10:52:54 PDT One of the first steps you should take when beginning your career exploration and planning process is undergoing a thorough self-awareness process that looks at your preferences, what motivates you, and your past successes. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/clues-to-your-strengths-and-passions http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/clues-to-your-strengths-and-passions Fri, 20 Feb 2009 10:02:24 PDT Did another job slip away from you? Did you feel like you got fired before you got hired? Ever wonder why? There are so many dos and don’ts when it comes to jobsearch etiquette, yet many fail to mention painfully obvious and everyday things that could actually cost you a job. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/online-audit-of-internet-persona http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/online-audit-of-internet-persona Tue, 17 Mar 2009 10:15:56 PDT Have you heard the term life-long learning a lot lately? It’s the catch phrase used in the career and education sectors to emphasize the need to stay up to date with the relevant knowledge and skills required in our fast paced knowledge based economy. Although I must agree with the underlying concept of staying ‘up-to-date’, it can all sound so overwhelming and disheartening. Life Loooooooong Learning – schooling for life, night courses forever – ugh! http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/right-time-right-type-training http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/right-time-right-type-training Thu, 19 Mar 2009 09:19:10 PDT Let’s face it –there are high expectations in our society regarding our performance, professionalism, output and activities. It seems I’m supposed to be a high-output, multi-tasking entrepreneurial networker, who’s up-to-date on the latest advances in technology and trends in my sector, while also managing my many relationships and arriving at meetings on time. Whew! http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/play-to-your-strengths http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/play-to-your-strengths Fri, 24 Apr 2009 10:41:58 PDT Here’s a practical list of my top 10 career strategies to employ if you want to advance your career this year. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/career-power-get-ahead-at-work http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/career-power-get-ahead-at-work Thu, 21 May 2009 10:39:37 PDT If you could go back in time thirty years and tell someone people would actually be buying water in 2005 for prices higher than gasoline, you would probably be severely ridiculed. Go back fifteen years and tell someone that you would actually be able to purchase air in an oxygen bar and they would think you had been hitting the sauce. Water and oxygen are interesting products because they are readily available, free, and vital to life. There has been a demand created for them out of, well, thin air. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/selling-air-marketing-your-entry-level-career http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/selling-air-marketing-your-entry-level-career Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:23:37 PDT Within the current economic climate, reports of job losses and personal bankruptcies affecting Canadians across the country remind us of the volatile and uncertain nature of work. Rapid increases in the unemployment rate can create a sense of worry, panic, dread, and anxiety – even among people whose industries feel fairly “recession proof” (e.g., healthcare, K-12 education, career management practitioners). http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/recession-proofing-your-career http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/recession-proofing-your-career Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:25:50 PDT When I was a kid, I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I knew the things I enjoyed and I knew what I was good at. But somewhere along the way I lost that dream. Looking back, I realize that it was conditioned out of me. Well-meaning people who loved me and cared about me nudged me in more sensible directions and I conformed to their wishes. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/do-what-you-do-best http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/do-what-you-do-best Fri, 25 Sep 2009 07:31:07 PDT Many people think of volunteering as ‘the thing you just do’ when you are passionate about something. And while this is true, volunteering can unlock some incredible opportunities for your career. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/-volunteering-101 http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/-volunteering-101 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:49:42 PDT Don't let poor work habits keep you from finding work. It's said that finding a job is a full time job, and your job search needs to be approached with the same good behavior. Exhibiting good work habits when seeking employment is just as important as it is when you have a job. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/looking-for-work-check-your-work-ethic http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/looking-for-work-check-your-work-ethic Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:58:11 PDT With an unmistakably topsy-turvy economy you may find yourself stumped in your job search. For many of you in this situation, this is a most frustrating dilemma. Temporary staffing is an excellent resource to utilize during times like this. While many companies might not be hiring for as many permanent positions at this time, taking on a temporary assignment might actually win you a job in a great company! http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/topsy-turvy-job-market-temp-it-out-for-a-change http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/topsy-turvy-job-market-temp-it-out-for-a-change Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:11:20 PDT Wonder why you didn’t hear back from the hiring manager after submitting your resume? After discussing job search mistakes with some of my Recruitment team, we readily agreed that this is a ‘must know’ topic and worth reviewing again and again. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/be-strategic-about-your-job-hunt http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/be-strategic-about-your-job-hunt Tue, 26 Jan 2010 09:12:30 PDT When online social networking became hugely popular in Canada a few years ago, people were looking to connect socially. Today, an ever-growing number of social networkers are looking for career connections. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/job-searching-social-networking-canadians http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/job-searching-social-networking-canadians Thu, 25 Feb 2010 10:46:26 PDT The blow has been dealt. Ok. One day, you feel sorry for yourself, the next you're ready to take action. Who knows where this road will take you? A new challenge? Let's face it – it's been a while since you've felt this invigorated! So have faith in yourself and project confidence... http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/redundancy-what-now-part-1 http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/redundancy-what-now-part-1 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 10:47:43 PDT According to the Globe & Mail, employers and recruiters are assembling a “blacklist” of people considered unfit for hiring. Apparently, if you are a liar, a loser, or a misfit then the chances are good that your name will end up on such a list. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/blacklisting-liars-losers-and-misfits http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/blacklisting-liars-losers-and-misfits Tue, 23 Mar 2010 11:58:36 PDT Voluntary redundancy can be viewed as a financially rewarding opportunity, but if you are considering it, take care. Voluntary redundancy may be offered when a company is looking to reduce its number of staff and instead of enforcing redundancies offer employees the chance to resign in exchange for a healthy redundancy settlement. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/redundancy-what-now-part-2 http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/redundancy-what-now-part-2 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:00:50 PDT Having a mentor is a fantastic way to enrich your career. Mentors can teach you skills, share knowledge, help you see opportunities and challenges that you might not have seen on your own, and provide advice and guidance through many situations. While mentoring can occur in many different forms, it traditionally refers to a one-on-one relationship between a more experienced person (a mentor) and a less experienced person (a protégé), which is intended to advance the personal and professional growth of the less experienced individual. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/should-you-consider-mentoring http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/should-you-consider-mentoring Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:56:09 PDT So you've been through the palaver of job hunting, you've nailed a great role and you've successfully handed in your letter of resignation. Your boss definitely wasn't happy about it (mind you, how would you feel if he was?) but he seemed to accept it ok. Since then, you've been rubbing your colleagues' noses in it and planning the biggest leaving bash the company has ever seen. Then what? http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/tips-on-handling-counter-offers http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/tips-on-handling-counter-offers Thu, 27 May 2010 07:22:23 PDT Can you sue an employer if they give you a good LinkedIn reference after they dismiss you? Recently, someone asked me whether they could sue their employer after they were dismissed and the employer provided them with a good reference on LinkedIn. The short answer is: not really. But, like all things legal, it depends. Here are two common scenarios: http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/can-you-sue-an-employer http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/can-you-sue-an-employer Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:02:20 PDT The following is a ‘quick reference list’ of steps and actions you will want to consider if you have recently lost your job or have been notified of an upcoming layoff. http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/layoff-checklist http://www.albertajobcentre.ca/re/career-advice/career-advice-articles/career-planning/layoff-checklist Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:14:35 PDT