Movin' On Up

This Year, Is Higher Education Worth the Cost?

Summer may be at its peak, but just around the corner, another school year waits. Not just for children to return to class from summer vacation, but for a growing number of people in America, from the unemployed to those with newly minted degrees. 

This year, a rising number of unemployed Americans are returning to school to improve their knowledge and skills in an increasingly tough job market. In fact, many community colleges reporting their largest enrollment spikes ever attribute the increase to the need to meet the demands of a highly competitive job market.

To cope with the monetary strain of higher education, many high school graduates are simply opting for a low tuition option such as in-state or community colleges, rather than ivy league, gold sticker institutions.

Many new college grads, who faced a dreary job outlook upon their recent graduation, are opting to go straight into grad school, fearing uncertain immediate employment future. In fact, the National Association of Colleges and Employers reported that 26% of new grads planned to go on to graduate school, up from 24% in 2008 and 20% in 2007.

So, with all this emphasis on going back to school, we want to know what you think. Is it worth it to get a college or graduate degree in this recession? Let us know by voting in our poll below.

poll by twiigs.com

 

Are you struggling with the decision of whether or not to enroll in higher education? Looking to increase your skills, or hoping a degree will help you earn a higher paycheck? Share your thoughts on higher education in our comments section.

The Recession: An Opportunity to Improve Your Life

With much of the media focusing on the negative impact of the recession, new grads looking for employment, mature workers who’ve been laid off, and individuals struggling with survivor’s guilt, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’re feeling defeated in your current job search, look beyond the grim picture the media paints to the opportunities and possibilities ahead of you before you raise the white flag of surrender.

While change and the unknown can be daunting, even frightening, it can also be a chance to redirect your life, to have an adventure, or to do and become more. It may not feel like it now, but the possibilities your life holds and the roads you choose to take are endless. So, if you find yourself at a roadblock, create a new path.  Bravely step out on the road less traveled, and change your life. Choosing this mindset can make all the difference.

Not sure which road to take? Explore these avenues to discover potential alternative career paths.

Start Your Own Business. If you’ve ever wanted to be your own boss, now may be the perfect time to start your own company. While keeping your passions and skills in mind, think outside the box and develop a business that’s right for you, whether it’s a quaint neighborhood restaurant, an in-home day care, or a franchised company. Be innovative and dream big and you’ll take control of your destiny.

Gain Life Experience. If you’re a new grad or just need more adventure than an 8 – 5 desk job has to offer, consider taking some time to discover the world. Think about volunteering for the Peace Corps, or becoming an English teacher in a foreign country. Working abroad will provide you with incredible life experiences, equip you with valuable skills you can use in other fields, and help you determine your priorities and purpose.

Whatever road you choose, whether you’re just beginning or you’ve traveled great distances, take heart. As Dr. Seuss says, “Today is your day. You’re off to great places! You’re off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own and you know what you know and you are the one who’ll decide where to go.”

5 Booming Green Industries

The $787 billion economic stimulus plan signed by President Obama is intended to spur economic and job growth, helping the American economy and putting people back to work. Forty billion dollars of that plan is designed solely to create green jobs.

Many projects in several states are already underway with more in the works. According to MSNBC, there are 10 hot green job industries that are heading our way in 2009. Check out these five green industries highlighted below.

Advanced Biofuels – Green fuel originates from non-food crops, such as cornstalks or wheat straw, and emits 60% less greenhouse gases but performs like gasoline. Advanced biofuel production is expected to increase to 21 billion gallons per year in 2022, up from 2 billion gallons per year in 2012. This industry is expected to generate around 123,000 total new jobs, according to Bio Economic Research Associates. People looking for employment in this industry can expect to find jobs in agriculture, architecture, chemical engineering, chemical plant and systems operators, and more.

Building Retrofitting – Wasted heat and energy is a major concern on the global economy and residential, commercial, and public buildings are big contributors. The president’s administration wants to retrofit 10 million homes with energy saving materials each year until 2020. This is expected to generate nearly 1.25 million jobs directly and 6 million jobs indirectly. Positions in this industry include: home performance specialists, energy auditors, managers, marketers, and more.

Geothermal Energy – Natural – or geothermal – energy is created by steam and hot water produced from heated rocks underground. This industry is expected to create 100,000 construction and manufacturing jobs for up to five years and 23,000 permanent geothermal-plant jobs. Positions available in this industry vary from chemists to drivers to property managers to sales managers.

Green Chemistry – This industry works to reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous substances. Green chemists and engineers are needed to help reformulate products and replace 95% of the petroleum-based materials people use every day with nature-derived stock, according to the American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute.

Green Manufacturing – This sector is comprised of mainly traditional manufacturing used to create new parts for green industries. Jobs in this industry are expected to increase by 1 million with, 2.5 million indirect jobs in related industries to support the manufacturing sector. Positions you’re likely to see in this industry are factory workers, health and safety officers, and managers, among many others.

So, if you’re looking to change directions in your career, or you’re like many Americans who are out of work and in search of hope, these hot green jobs could be your ticket to a growing career. 

To see the top 10 hottest green job industries and more positions in these industries, check out MSNBC’s green jobs article.

Looking for a Job? Three Women-friendly Industries

The American workforce has made great strides toward equality and balance in the workplace in the last century. Women now comprise 46% of today’s labor force. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan, recently signed by President Obama, could create an estimated 3,675,000 jobs. While many of the jobs created are in the construction sector, a traditionally male industry, the plan also includes industries that ensure job creation that reflects the demographics of today’s workers. Check out these three industries that will create jobs for women.

Leisure and Hospitality. Women should consider looking for jobs in the leisure and hospitality industry. An estimated 262,000 jobs created by the stimulus package are expected to go to women in this industry, which includes art, entertainment, recreation, and accommodation and food services. So, hotels, travel agencies, museums, spas, and vacation destinations will be great, exciting, and even exotic places for women to begin their job search.

Financial Activities.  The stimulus package is expected to create 127,000 jobs for women in the financial activities industry. The financial activities sector includes jobs in insurance, real estate, rental and leasing, and finance. For women who are good at numbers and enjoy working with people, becoming a realtor or accountant, or working for an insurance company could be the perfect career move.

Retail Trade. Investment in the retail trade industry is expected to create an estimated 304,000 jobs for women. Women who like change and meeting new people everyday should take a look at this multifaceted industry. Retail trade impacts our lives on a daily basis. Examining hobbies and passions, like electronics, furniture, or gardening is a great way to identify a career path. It might also be the perfect time to get creative and consider opening a specialty store. With retail trade, the possibilities are endless and the experiences are different every day.

Looking for a new job can be a scary and intimidating thing, but this opportunity could lead to a positive change. Every life is a story, and one of these industries just might hold the perfect beginning to a new chapter with an exciting career.

Career Development for Blue Collar Workers

Statistics Back Higher Education for Blue Collar Workers
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for college graduates over the age of 25 was 4.1% in February, up from 2.1% a year ago. However, this rate is substantially lower than the 8.3% unemployment rate for people with only a high school diploma.

Economists say that in this tight job market, one reason college graduates have a lower unemployment rate is because they’re taking jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, making it increasingly difficult for blue collar workers to compete. Companies are hiring these overqualified employees over individuals who don’t have a higher education because they can. So, what can blue collar workers do to compete in the job market?

Be Flexible
To help with the job search, experts say that people need to be more flexible with their career options, because there’s no telling where the job growth will be 10 or 20 years from now. Economists speculate that in the future, job creation will be for new jobs that haven’t even been thought of yet, requiring more than a high school diploma. 

Continue Your Education
To be flexible in your career choices, continue your education. This will play a crucial role in your job search success. Jobs that are opening up now are not necessarily physical labor positions, experts say, causing many blue collar workers to be limited in their career choices. This means many blue collar workers are going back to the classroom. In a recent MSNBC story, a man whose career path was laid out at an early age planned to be a factory worker until his retirement. But, after 20 years of factory work and increasing competition from foreign manufacturers, he knew his job wasn’t secure. So, he went back to school and now plans to become a teacher.

So, as the recession continues to take its toll on entry-level positions and other job markets, blue collar workers need to increase their skills to become more flexible in their career choices, helping them in their job search.

Remember, change isn’t a bad thing. By reexamining yourself and finding a new career path, you just might find your dream job. Visit your local Express Employment Professionals office to help you get started on a new career today.

Are You Taking Risks or Playing it Safe?

In today’s economy, it’s hard to predict what will come next. With the job market struggling and businesses slashing budgets, making decisions about your career – or your business – may seem nearly impossible.

poll by twiigs.com

Have more to say about the economy, job market, or business world? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

Na Na Na Na. Hey, Hey. Goodbye. - Leaving Your Job Without Burning Bridges

In today’s economy, leaving your job may seem reckless and ill-advised. But, when life presents you with a new and exciting opportunity, sometimes saying goodbye is a better decision for your future.

Leaving the security of your job is always a scary thing, so make sure you have properly analyzed – and are prepared for – every possible outcome. You never know when your path will cross again with your employer’s. Someday, you might need a good reference or you might even bump into each other at an industry conference. So, it’s always best to leave on good terms.

Whether you’re making a career change or life has thrown you a curveball, here are a few guidelines to help you say goodbye without burning bridges.

Use Discretion.
When you’ve arrived at your decision to leave, you may want to compile a list of colleagues that you want to break the news to. The person at the top of that list should be your direct supervisor. Having your manager hear of your departure from office gossip is the last thing you want. After informing your boss, begin telling others on your list if you want the news to become public.

Talk Face to Face.
Make every effort possible to inform your boss of your intentions face to face. An e-mail or telephone conversation is only appropriate when geographical location prevents an in-person meeting.

Be Professional.
When discussing your departure, be prepared to give your reason for leaving. Although you aren’t required to do so, it is the courteous choice. It can be as simple as, “I’ve found a new opportunity to advance in my career,” or “I’ve found something that better fits my talents and desires.” Keep in mind, this is not the time to point the finger or vent frustrations.

Account for Curveballs.
During your meeting with your supervisor, they might offer a raise or promotion. Chances are, you didn’t take your decision to leave lightly and you’ll stick to your choice, but take the possibility of another offer into consideration. That said, do not leverage your departure as a threat for a pay increase. This will not be appreciated and will most likely backfire.

Give Proper Notice.
The standard time for notification when you are leaving a job is two weeks. But for some jobs, as much as six weeks can be required. Check your employee handbook to see if there are any guidelines to follow. If there aren’t, try to give your supervisor an advanced notice of at least two weeks.

Write a Resignation Letter.
A formal letter of resignation should include the date of your last day of employment, reason for leaving (keep it professional), and a thank you for the opportunity to work for the company. Also, include you willingness to help with the transition period, whether it is training the new employee or making a list of your job duties. You may not be asked to, but the act of offering demonstrates, even in the end, your loyalty and character.

Leave on a Good Note.
Be professional and diligently work up until the last day you’ve agreed upon. On your final day, write thank you cards to your supervisor and your co-workers. You’re respectfulness can create a great final impression – one that’s as important as your first impression.

Even if you’ve struggled with the dilemma of leaving your job, you made the decision to go, so don’t burn bridges in your departure. Make sure things are in order before you say goodbye.

Have you experienced a former co-worker leaving on a sour note? How have you made clean breaks in the past? Post your stories in the comment section below.

Three Tips to Survive a Job Loss

Losing a job can be tough, but you’re not alone. In today’s economy, more and more people are finding themselves without work. And, with the holiday season upon us, being without a job is even more stressful.

According to expert psychologists, losing a job can be as traumatic as losing a loved one. People often associate themselves with their job. If your job defines you and you’re without a job, you’re without an identity. So, it’s no wonder people become depressed after a job loss. But, there’s hope. Check out these three tips to cope with the loss of a job.

Move Forward. Instead of dwelling on your old job, look ahead to the chance of finding a new job. This can be exciting with the right outlook. Think about it as a chance to move your career in a new direction. Don’t waste time feeling sorry for yourself. Instead, pick yourself up and dust off your résumé. Take this opportunity to reinvent yourself. 

Create a Budget. One of the biggest stressors of not having a job is not having a steady income to pay the bills. But, this doesn’t have to get you down. There are things you can do to prepare yourself. Cut back on unnecessary spending, create a budget, and make a list of ways you can generate income until you’re employed full-time again.   

Be Calm. This is easier said than done, but experts say that being impatient leads to unnecessary stress which can lead to an even longer unemployment period. So, relax, and don’t get worked up if you don’t find a job right away. Try working a temporary or part-time position as you search for a new job. On average, it takes people months to find a job that closely resembles the one they had, according to experts. Commit to sending off your résumé to a prospective employer once a day – no matter how long it takes to find a job.

Losing a job can be rough, not only on you but your family as well. But, by keeping a positive attitude and being diligent to find a new position, you can move on.

3 Reasons Not to Waste Your Time Applying for Just Any Job

When employers are looking to fill a position, they want to hire a person who shows talent, enthusiasm, and dedication. If you can’t convey any of that in your résumé or during your interview, you’re not likely to get the job. Here are three reasons not to waste your time or the employer’s by applying for a job you don’t truly want.

You won’t give your all. When you’re unsure of whether you want a specific job or if you’re just interested in the position for its income, you probably won’t put forth the effort it takes to land a job. Decide whether or not you want the job first. Then, only apply for those you want to invest time into seeking out. It’s OK if you decide you don’t want a job after you’ve interviewed, but realize that your time is one of your most valuable resources in your job search, and wisely invest in it accordingly.

Employers will notice. When you’re apathetic toward a job opportunity, your lack of interest is noticeable to employers during your interview, and employers don’t want to hire lackluster candidates – even those who are fully qualified. If you act like you’re wasting your time in an interview, the employer may assume you’d be no different on the job.

You’ll miss the right opportunity. If you spend your time applying for jobs you don’t really want, you won’t be able to give the proper time and attention to the job opportunities that really interest you, and the perfect job just might slip through your grasp. Focus on getting the job you really want, and employers will take notice of your talent and determination.

If you’re unmoved by a job opportunity, you’re unlikely to land a job offer. Even if you do, chances are, you won’t be any more excited once you begin the position. So, do yourself and potential employer a favor by carefully selecting which jobs you want to apply for and you’ll be better equipped to land a job you truly love.

Chuck vs. the Professional Crossroad

In the season two premiere of NBC’s Chuck, full-time computer technician Chuck Bartowski is finally offered the assistant manager position his family and friends thought he’d been hoping for. But, the events leading Chuck to become a super-secret, super-nerdy version of 007 also lead him to realize his full potential. His fellow spies tell him that his skills could help him be successful at whatever he wishes, but he feels that taking the promotion would be one step closer toward a dead end. Unlike Chuck, you don’t have to wait for a government super computer to download to your brain for you to reconsider your career goals. If your current job isn’t taking you where you want to go, check out these tips?

Reevaluate Your Goals
Over time, priorities and circumstances change. What you want as a recent college graduate might change when you start a family. Volunteer efforts might lead you to discover another more fulfilling and refreshing vocation. If your goals have changed, there’s no reason to dedicate your hard work to something you no longer want. So it’s important to occasionally re-evaluate your career and life aspirations to make necessary changes so you’ll be fulfilled and successful.

Consider Different Career Options
After you assess your career goals and find out that your current job can’t get you where you want to go, it’s time to rethink your career options. If you find a more rewarding calling, what is keeping you from making the career change? If the job change is constantly on your mind, make a conscious effort to do more research and see if you really want a career change or just a change of pace from your current duties. If you’re just looking for a way out of where you’re working, you may simply be experiencing job burnout, and could revitalize you with a new job in the same field.

When coming to a professional crossroad, remember to take all things into consideration before making a move. With today’s unemployment rate, a job search could take several months. So, make sure you carefully consider all your options, and what you’re willing to do to make a change.

Have you been considering a career change? What are some of the factors holding you back?