AS the parent of a teenager, you have many decisions to make every day, ranging from approving their clothes and hairstyles to boyfriends and girlfriends.
If your child wants a part-time job, however, the decision is easy – let him/her take it.
Part-time jobs are great for teenagers as they teach them responsibility, the value of hard work, and money management skills that they will learn nowhere else but the real world.
By allowing your teenager to find a part-time job, you’re stepping out of the way and letting the adult world teach him these skills.
Whether it’s mowing grass for the neighbours or flipping burgers at your local fast-food joint, a job is a classroom in and of itself, where your teen learns a variety of real-life lessons.
Learning these lessons will be a boon to them now and when they grow up.
» Be responsible
The key element of doing well at a job is showing up. If your teenager can manage that, consistently and on time, he’s ahead of the game.
People, who are frequently absent from work or are tardy, end up getting fired. Regular attendance will teach your teen the importance of responsibility.
He’ll also practise this skill as he works on the tasks required by the job – to do them consistently and accurately.
If your teen gets fired, you may be tempted to jump in and negotiate on his behalf. Don’t! Instead, help him to see where he fell short on the job and correct his mistakes, so that the problem doesn’t happen again.
By doing so, you’ll be teaching your teen even more about responsibility, although it may be a painful lesson to learn.
» Know value of hard work
Most part-time jobs require repetitive tasks or manual labour – neither of which is a lot of fun. In fact, the job may very well feel like ... well ... WORK!
This may be your teen’s first experience with hard work, so be sure to reiterate to him how valuable the experience is.
Take the time, however, to help your teenager find a job that suits his skills or interests, so that he won’t completely detest it. There’s value in finding meaningful work that you enjoy – help your teen to do so if possible.
» Money management skills
Now that your teenager has a part-time job, it may be time for him to start contributing a bit more to the household finances.
For example, you may have him pay his own cellphone bill, or contribute towards his petrol or car insurance bills.
Teach your teenager about money, savings, credit, and other financial subjects. He will need this information as he grows into adulthood, and it’s wise to use his own money to help him learn.
If he is of age, you may even consider opening a current or savings account in his name and teach him how to use it properly.
While it can be difficult at first to let your child work, remember that part of your job as a parent is to let go when necessary.
A part-time job is a great way to practise sending your young adult out into the world, while you’re still around to help him work through his mistakes.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
40 Things You Can Learn About a Guy in 10 Minutes
You don't have to date a guy for six months to get the lowdown on who he really is. With the right clues, you can size him up in 10 minutes. "A man's actions -- especially the ones you see in unguarded moments when he's not going out of his way to try to impress you (or doesn't realize you're watching) -- can speak volumes about his character and personality traits," says Rita Benasutti, PhD, a psychotherapist who specializes in couples' issues.
His Favorite Sport
"Solo sportsmen, like runners and swimmers, 1 savor their independence and relish spending a lot of time alone," says relationship-skills coach Steve Nakamoto, author of "Men Are Like Fish: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Catching a Man." Men who are fans of mainstream team sports, like football, basketball, and baseball, 2 tend to be competitive -- on the field and in all aspects of their life -- and they like to hang with their entourage. As for the guy who's just not into sports at all, 3 "he's an independent thinker, usually on the sensitive side."
How Long He's Been Hanging With His Friends
A guy who has been friends with the same posse since he was 10 years old can certainly claim 4 loyalty as one of his strong suits. But "you better like what you see, because he's probably not great with change," says dating coach Liz H. Kelly, author of "Smart Man Hunting." "And be patient, because it will take a while for you to win his trust." If your date has buddies from all areas of his life -- i.e., college, the gym, work -- don't be afraid to drag him to your cousin's wedding. 5 "He has no problem schmoozing strangers and adapts to new situations easily."
Credit vs. Cash
A guy who likes to flash his plastic 6 craves status. "He may be ambitious and confident. He'll reach his financial goals," says Rob Ronin, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist and registered financial consultant. "If he always pays in cash, 7 he's self-sufficient and independent," which might make him a difficult dude to corner. And if his wallet is dry? 8 Here's a guy who's dependent on others to take care of him.
His Bad Habits
Gambling men 9 are risk-takers, which can make them a lot of fun. "But their over-the-top optimism that they'll come out ahead makes it difficult for them to face reality," says Mitchell Parks, MD, assistant professor of psychiatry at Vanderbilt University, in Nashville. "Hard-core smokers 10 tend to be anxious," says Dr. Parks, so it can be hard to pin them down for couple-time. And if he's a boozer, 11 he could be hiding his insecurity behind his buzz.
His Communication Style
When your date opts to email you -- rather than call -- 12 he could be a hard nut to crack. "The fact that he chooses a communication method that allows him to edit what he says signals that he might not want to show his true self," says Jeff Bryson, PhD, professor of psychology at San Diego State University. An IM addict 13 craves your nonstop attention and needs that instant assurance that you're there for him. And the phone fan? 14 He might be a little old-fashioned and likes to do things by the book. But, according to Bryson, "he's not afraid of intimacy."
The Clothes You Wear That He Prefers
If your fave T-shirt and jeans or a cute little sundress do more for him than your slinky black number, 15 you're dating an earthy, laid-back guy who likes equally laid-back, low-maintenance chicks. A man who's wowed by a woman who likes to get dolled up in high-end designer duds 16 places a high priority on prestige. "He'll probably make a lot of money, but it also might play too important a role in his life," says Los Angeles clinical psychologist Nancy Irwin, PsyD. And a guy who wants a Carmen Electra-sensual girl on his arm 17 is looking for an ego boost. "He places a lot of value on being admired and envied."
How He Deals With Traffic
If he constantly weaves in and out of cars, tailgates slowpokes, and glares at other drivers, 18 "it's pretty clear that he has a problem with aggression," says Leon James, PhD, professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii and author of "Road Rage and Aggressive Driving." While a forceful personality might take him far in the workplace, it could be difficult to deal with this argumentative guy in a relationship. If he's able to exude Zen-like calm when stuck in gridlock, 19 "he's likely to have more self-control."
What He Orders in a Restaurant
A meat-and-potatoes-type guy 20 is usually steady and dependable, says image coach Dianne Daniels, author of "Polish and Presence: 31 Days to a New Image." "But he's also a little unadventurous." If your date goes for exotic dishes, 21 "you're with someone who makes spontaneity a priority and could easily get bored with the status quo."
Neat Freak or Messy Man
A guy who puts his dirty socks in the hamper is one thing; a guy who color-codes them in his drawer is something else. 22 "This man is way too fastidious to have fun," explains Daniels, "and he'll expect you to be just as neat." A mildly messy man 23 is looser and more open-minded. But if the inside of his shower has never seen a scrub brush, 24 he may be immature or just plain lazy.
Favorite TV Shows
Take note if he parks himself in front of one sitcom after another. 25 "Here's a guy who uses humor to defuse stress," says TV producer Hedda Muskat, author of "Dating Confidential: A Single's Guide to a Fun, Flirtatious and Possibly Meaningful Social Life." This can be a good thing, because he won't hold a grudge against you or lose his cool. But it also might be hard to get into a serious conversation with him, which can be frustrating. "The more you try to discuss something important, the more evasive he will become," says Muskat. A couch sleuth who's fascinated by CSI-type shows, on the other hand, 26 is analytical and thoughtful. "He prides himself on his problem-solving abilities and will be there for you when you need support," says Muskat.
His Birth Order
"The oldest child 27 is usually a responsible, take-charge kind of guy," says Nancy Fagan, author of "Desirable Men." If your babe is the baby of his brood, 28 "he's likely to be creative and a little rebellious." As for a middle man: 29 "He's a sensitive soul who needs loads of attention."
How He Approaches PDAs
When you're out in public and he's all over you like a rash, 30 "he's either trying to show you off or marking his territory, both of which are signs of insecurity," says Nakamoto. A guy who's allergic to body contact in public is 31 unsure about his feelings for you or your feelings for him. "PDAs are statements of togetherness," says Nakamoto. "If he has doubts, he'll keep his distance physically."
Whether He Always Drives or Wants You To
"A guy who doesn't automatically assume driving rights 32 is likely to let you steer the relationship at least some of the time," says Kelly. A man who hogs the wheel -- even in your car -- 33 is sweetly old-fashioned at best and, at worst, could be a control freak.
The Guy's Grooming MO
A guy who checks out his reflection in every store window you pass is obviously vain. But, interestingly, 34 it's also a sign of a dude who's intent on succeeding. "Presentation is everything to this kind of man," says Sheenah Hankin, PhD, author of "Complete Confidence." "He sees it as a measure of his self-respect and success." 35 The low-key, less conceited guy might be less ambitious, "but he's easier to connect with emotionally because he's not as superficial," says Hankin. "What counts on the inside matters more to him."
If He Looks You in the Eye
"A man who doesn't make eye contact during conversation 36 may not be trustworthy," says speech coach Diane DiResta, author of "Knockout Presentations." "Meanwhile, if his eyes bore into yours as he's talking, 37 he might be trying to intimidate you." But a smoldering gaze -- you know what that looks like -- 38 means he's immensely fond of you.
His Speaking Style
If your man moves his mouth a mile a minute, 39 you're with a spontaneous, high-energy guy who may be a little too self-absorbed. "Fast talkers get so wrapped up in making a good impression that they don't pay attention to their audience," says DiResta. Slow talkers 40 typically play it safe. "The way they deliberate every word before it comes out of their mouth is indicative of how they approach life: They look before they leap." So although you shouldn't expect a lot of surprises, at least you'll know he means what he says.
Things You'll Only Learn With Time
Your speedy profiling skills won't reveal these tidbits from psychotherapist Katherine Woodward Thomas, author of "Calling in 'The One'."
How loyal he'll be: Wait and see if you're shown the same allegiance as his buds are.
If he's a man of his word: Will he really keep those promises he made to you early on?
His little quirks: Time reveals the small details that really make a person tick.
If his parents' split haunts him: His broken home may have issued him some big-time emotional baggage.
His Favorite Sport
"Solo sportsmen, like runners and swimmers, 1 savor their independence and relish spending a lot of time alone," says relationship-skills coach Steve Nakamoto, author of "Men Are Like Fish: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Catching a Man." Men who are fans of mainstream team sports, like football, basketball, and baseball, 2 tend to be competitive -- on the field and in all aspects of their life -- and they like to hang with their entourage. As for the guy who's just not into sports at all, 3 "he's an independent thinker, usually on the sensitive side."
How Long He's Been Hanging With His Friends
A guy who has been friends with the same posse since he was 10 years old can certainly claim 4 loyalty as one of his strong suits. But "you better like what you see, because he's probably not great with change," says dating coach Liz H. Kelly, author of "Smart Man Hunting." "And be patient, because it will take a while for you to win his trust." If your date has buddies from all areas of his life -- i.e., college, the gym, work -- don't be afraid to drag him to your cousin's wedding. 5 "He has no problem schmoozing strangers and adapts to new situations easily."
Credit vs. Cash
A guy who likes to flash his plastic 6 craves status. "He may be ambitious and confident. He'll reach his financial goals," says Rob Ronin, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist and registered financial consultant. "If he always pays in cash, 7 he's self-sufficient and independent," which might make him a difficult dude to corner. And if his wallet is dry? 8 Here's a guy who's dependent on others to take care of him.
His Bad Habits
Gambling men 9 are risk-takers, which can make them a lot of fun. "But their over-the-top optimism that they'll come out ahead makes it difficult for them to face reality," says Mitchell Parks, MD, assistant professor of psychiatry at Vanderbilt University, in Nashville. "Hard-core smokers 10 tend to be anxious," says Dr. Parks, so it can be hard to pin them down for couple-time. And if he's a boozer, 11 he could be hiding his insecurity behind his buzz.
His Communication Style
When your date opts to email you -- rather than call -- 12 he could be a hard nut to crack. "The fact that he chooses a communication method that allows him to edit what he says signals that he might not want to show his true self," says Jeff Bryson, PhD, professor of psychology at San Diego State University. An IM addict 13 craves your nonstop attention and needs that instant assurance that you're there for him. And the phone fan? 14 He might be a little old-fashioned and likes to do things by the book. But, according to Bryson, "he's not afraid of intimacy."
The Clothes You Wear That He Prefers
If your fave T-shirt and jeans or a cute little sundress do more for him than your slinky black number, 15 you're dating an earthy, laid-back guy who likes equally laid-back, low-maintenance chicks. A man who's wowed by a woman who likes to get dolled up in high-end designer duds 16 places a high priority on prestige. "He'll probably make a lot of money, but it also might play too important a role in his life," says Los Angeles clinical psychologist Nancy Irwin, PsyD. And a guy who wants a Carmen Electra-sensual girl on his arm 17 is looking for an ego boost. "He places a lot of value on being admired and envied."
How He Deals With Traffic
If he constantly weaves in and out of cars, tailgates slowpokes, and glares at other drivers, 18 "it's pretty clear that he has a problem with aggression," says Leon James, PhD, professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii and author of "Road Rage and Aggressive Driving." While a forceful personality might take him far in the workplace, it could be difficult to deal with this argumentative guy in a relationship. If he's able to exude Zen-like calm when stuck in gridlock, 19 "he's likely to have more self-control."
What He Orders in a Restaurant
A meat-and-potatoes-type guy 20 is usually steady and dependable, says image coach Dianne Daniels, author of "Polish and Presence: 31 Days to a New Image." "But he's also a little unadventurous." If your date goes for exotic dishes, 21 "you're with someone who makes spontaneity a priority and could easily get bored with the status quo."
Neat Freak or Messy Man
A guy who puts his dirty socks in the hamper is one thing; a guy who color-codes them in his drawer is something else. 22 "This man is way too fastidious to have fun," explains Daniels, "and he'll expect you to be just as neat." A mildly messy man 23 is looser and more open-minded. But if the inside of his shower has never seen a scrub brush, 24 he may be immature or just plain lazy.
Favorite TV Shows
Take note if he parks himself in front of one sitcom after another. 25 "Here's a guy who uses humor to defuse stress," says TV producer Hedda Muskat, author of "Dating Confidential: A Single's Guide to a Fun, Flirtatious and Possibly Meaningful Social Life." This can be a good thing, because he won't hold a grudge against you or lose his cool. But it also might be hard to get into a serious conversation with him, which can be frustrating. "The more you try to discuss something important, the more evasive he will become," says Muskat. A couch sleuth who's fascinated by CSI-type shows, on the other hand, 26 is analytical and thoughtful. "He prides himself on his problem-solving abilities and will be there for you when you need support," says Muskat.
His Birth Order
"The oldest child 27 is usually a responsible, take-charge kind of guy," says Nancy Fagan, author of "Desirable Men." If your babe is the baby of his brood, 28 "he's likely to be creative and a little rebellious." As for a middle man: 29 "He's a sensitive soul who needs loads of attention."
How He Approaches PDAs
When you're out in public and he's all over you like a rash, 30 "he's either trying to show you off or marking his territory, both of which are signs of insecurity," says Nakamoto. A guy who's allergic to body contact in public is 31 unsure about his feelings for you or your feelings for him. "PDAs are statements of togetherness," says Nakamoto. "If he has doubts, he'll keep his distance physically."
Whether He Always Drives or Wants You To
"A guy who doesn't automatically assume driving rights 32 is likely to let you steer the relationship at least some of the time," says Kelly. A man who hogs the wheel -- even in your car -- 33 is sweetly old-fashioned at best and, at worst, could be a control freak.
The Guy's Grooming MO
A guy who checks out his reflection in every store window you pass is obviously vain. But, interestingly, 34 it's also a sign of a dude who's intent on succeeding. "Presentation is everything to this kind of man," says Sheenah Hankin, PhD, author of "Complete Confidence." "He sees it as a measure of his self-respect and success." 35 The low-key, less conceited guy might be less ambitious, "but he's easier to connect with emotionally because he's not as superficial," says Hankin. "What counts on the inside matters more to him."
If He Looks You in the Eye
"A man who doesn't make eye contact during conversation 36 may not be trustworthy," says speech coach Diane DiResta, author of "Knockout Presentations." "Meanwhile, if his eyes bore into yours as he's talking, 37 he might be trying to intimidate you." But a smoldering gaze -- you know what that looks like -- 38 means he's immensely fond of you.
His Speaking Style
If your man moves his mouth a mile a minute, 39 you're with a spontaneous, high-energy guy who may be a little too self-absorbed. "Fast talkers get so wrapped up in making a good impression that they don't pay attention to their audience," says DiResta. Slow talkers 40 typically play it safe. "The way they deliberate every word before it comes out of their mouth is indicative of how they approach life: They look before they leap." So although you shouldn't expect a lot of surprises, at least you'll know he means what he says.
Things You'll Only Learn With Time
Your speedy profiling skills won't reveal these tidbits from psychotherapist Katherine Woodward Thomas, author of "Calling in 'The One'."
How loyal he'll be: Wait and see if you're shown the same allegiance as his buds are.
If he's a man of his word: Will he really keep those promises he made to you early on?
His little quirks: Time reveals the small details that really make a person tick.
If his parents' split haunts him: His broken home may have issued him some big-time emotional baggage.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
10 Pitfalls to Avoid When Asking for a Raise
When you're ready to ask for a raise or promotion, here are 10 major pitfalls to steer clear of, according to Camp.
1. Avoid telling your employer you hope she'll say yes.
Instead: Start by inviting your boss to say no. Tell her you're comfortable with a no answer and you want her to be comfortable to say no. This puts her at ease and clears the air.
2. Avoid being emotional.
Instead: Turn your mind into a blank slate. Have no expectations, hopes or fears. Above all, overcome all neediness, the No.1 deal-killer. Not needing this raise or promotion gives you power.
3. Avoid going into the meeting unprepared.
Instead: Research what people in your position get paid. Find out what obstacles stand in your way. Has the company just fired employees? Is there new management in the wings? Know all the issues that might keep your boss from giving you a raise. State each problem clearly and ask your boss how these problems might be solved.
4. Avoid trying to impress your boss.
Instead: Let her feel completely at ease with you, and perhaps even a little superior. Never dress to impress, brag or be pretentious.
5. Avoid giving a presentation.
Instead: Talk as little as possible. Ask your employer a lot of questions so you can find out her position, issues, concerns, needs and objectives.
6. Avoid asking yes or no questions.
Instead: Get your employer spilling the beans by beginning all of your questions with an interrogative: who, what, when, where, how or why.
7. Avoid thinking about the outcome.
Instead: Don't think about, hope for or plan on getting the raise. Focus instead on what you can control: your behavior during the negotiation.
8. Avoid believing that your mission is to get more money.
Instead: Your mission and purpose in this conversation is to fulfill your employer's business needs and objectives. Every decision you make in the negotiation process should be focused on helping your employer see that giving you a raise or promotion will further her business interests.
9. Avoid presenting your current salary or position as a problem.
Instead: Present yourself as the solution. Don't be afraid to give specific examples of challenges you faced and the solutions you provided. Special assignments that fit the employer's vision should be explained and discussed. The more examples you can provide the better.
10. Avoid giving an ultimatum.
Instead: Continue to negotiate with no need. Never threaten or posture with another offer or a take-it-or-leave-it stance. Use a calm, slow voice. State problems clearly and don't be afraid to ask for what you need to solve those problems. The more effective you appear at discussing her problem as you see it, the better.
1. Avoid telling your employer you hope she'll say yes.
Instead: Start by inviting your boss to say no. Tell her you're comfortable with a no answer and you want her to be comfortable to say no. This puts her at ease and clears the air.
2. Avoid being emotional.
Instead: Turn your mind into a blank slate. Have no expectations, hopes or fears. Above all, overcome all neediness, the No.1 deal-killer. Not needing this raise or promotion gives you power.
3. Avoid going into the meeting unprepared.
Instead: Research what people in your position get paid. Find out what obstacles stand in your way. Has the company just fired employees? Is there new management in the wings? Know all the issues that might keep your boss from giving you a raise. State each problem clearly and ask your boss how these problems might be solved.
4. Avoid trying to impress your boss.
Instead: Let her feel completely at ease with you, and perhaps even a little superior. Never dress to impress, brag or be pretentious.
5. Avoid giving a presentation.
Instead: Talk as little as possible. Ask your employer a lot of questions so you can find out her position, issues, concerns, needs and objectives.
6. Avoid asking yes or no questions.
Instead: Get your employer spilling the beans by beginning all of your questions with an interrogative: who, what, when, where, how or why.
7. Avoid thinking about the outcome.
Instead: Don't think about, hope for or plan on getting the raise. Focus instead on what you can control: your behavior during the negotiation.
8. Avoid believing that your mission is to get more money.
Instead: Your mission and purpose in this conversation is to fulfill your employer's business needs and objectives. Every decision you make in the negotiation process should be focused on helping your employer see that giving you a raise or promotion will further her business interests.
9. Avoid presenting your current salary or position as a problem.
Instead: Present yourself as the solution. Don't be afraid to give specific examples of challenges you faced and the solutions you provided. Special assignments that fit the employer's vision should be explained and discussed. The more examples you can provide the better.
10. Avoid giving an ultimatum.
Instead: Continue to negotiate with no need. Never threaten or posture with another offer or a take-it-or-leave-it stance. Use a calm, slow voice. State problems clearly and don't be afraid to ask for what you need to solve those problems. The more effective you appear at discussing her problem as you see it, the better.
6 Ways to Create Interview Chemistry
To help job seekers overcome this common obstacle and quickly create chemistry between themselves and interviewers, Susan Britton Whitcomb offers the following tips in "Interview Magic":
1. Share commonalities
Discuss your passion for your field or enthusiasm for a new product or service, as well as personal commonalities such as family (i.e., children of the same age), recreational activities, hobbies or interests.
2. L.I.S.T.E.N. attentively
Laser your focus. Investigate and be curious. Silence your tongue -- hold your judgment and open your mind. Take brief notes and take time to formulate your response. Elevate the other person. Note the nonverbal, including your body language and that of your interviewer. It is impossible to connect with others if you don't listen well.
3. R.E.S.P.O.N.D. well
Remember your objective; Engage the interviewer. Share succinctly. Point to benefits. Offer proof. Never drone on. Dedicate yourself to a win-win relationship.
4. Pay attention to the 'howchas'
The "howchas" are how you say something (as opposed to what you say). Tone, inflection, body language, attitude and motive combine to make how you say it just as important as what you say. To improve your 'howcha's,' remain deferential, respectfully curious and concerned about the interviewer/company's welfare. Use verbal and body language mirroring to enhance communication, matching aspects of your interviewer's voice, language, mannerisms and body language.
5. Recognize their learning style, whether auditory, visual or kinesthetic/tactile.
Offer variety in your interview so that each style is addressed. This might include answering questions for the auditory learners, writing an outline on a whiteboard or showing a PowerPoint demonstration for the visual learners, and engaging the kinesthetic/tactile learners in activities or encouraging them to take more thorough notes.
6. Understand their temperament
Theorists (often seen in executive roles) value impressive training or credentials, and stress vision, logic, innovation, mastery, progress and excellence. Catalysts (often seen in human service roles) value harmony in work relationships and appreciate ideal, meaningful work environments. Stabilizers (often seen in finance and management roles) value factual, reality-based responses in a sequential, detailed fashion. Improvisers (often seen in sales/marketing roles) value action, excitement and variety, and prefer solutions that are practical and effective to help them get what they want.
Making these efforts throughout the interview will go a long way toward impressing the interviewer and positioning yourself ahead of other candidates. Even if you don't win the job offer, the interviewer may be inclined to recommend you to others or keep you in mind for future opportunities if he or she developed a connection with you.
"Acing an interview -- even for a job that isn't perfect for you -- will put you on the radar screen of those who can help you in the future," Whitcomb says. "Remember that interviewers have their own network of contacts that will likely be valuable to you."
Selena Dehne is a career writer for JIST Publishing who shares the latest occupational, career and job search information available with job seekers and career changers. She is also the author of JIST's Job Search and Career Blog.
1. Share commonalities
Discuss your passion for your field or enthusiasm for a new product or service, as well as personal commonalities such as family (i.e., children of the same age), recreational activities, hobbies or interests.
2. L.I.S.T.E.N. attentively
Laser your focus. Investigate and be curious. Silence your tongue -- hold your judgment and open your mind. Take brief notes and take time to formulate your response. Elevate the other person. Note the nonverbal, including your body language and that of your interviewer. It is impossible to connect with others if you don't listen well.
3. R.E.S.P.O.N.D. well
Remember your objective; Engage the interviewer. Share succinctly. Point to benefits. Offer proof. Never drone on. Dedicate yourself to a win-win relationship.
4. Pay attention to the 'howchas'
The "howchas" are how you say something (as opposed to what you say). Tone, inflection, body language, attitude and motive combine to make how you say it just as important as what you say. To improve your 'howcha's,' remain deferential, respectfully curious and concerned about the interviewer/company's welfare. Use verbal and body language mirroring to enhance communication, matching aspects of your interviewer's voice, language, mannerisms and body language.
5. Recognize their learning style, whether auditory, visual or kinesthetic/tactile.
Offer variety in your interview so that each style is addressed. This might include answering questions for the auditory learners, writing an outline on a whiteboard or showing a PowerPoint demonstration for the visual learners, and engaging the kinesthetic/tactile learners in activities or encouraging them to take more thorough notes.
6. Understand their temperament
Theorists (often seen in executive roles) value impressive training or credentials, and stress vision, logic, innovation, mastery, progress and excellence. Catalysts (often seen in human service roles) value harmony in work relationships and appreciate ideal, meaningful work environments. Stabilizers (often seen in finance and management roles) value factual, reality-based responses in a sequential, detailed fashion. Improvisers (often seen in sales/marketing roles) value action, excitement and variety, and prefer solutions that are practical and effective to help them get what they want.
Making these efforts throughout the interview will go a long way toward impressing the interviewer and positioning yourself ahead of other candidates. Even if you don't win the job offer, the interviewer may be inclined to recommend you to others or keep you in mind for future opportunities if he or she developed a connection with you.
"Acing an interview -- even for a job that isn't perfect for you -- will put you on the radar screen of those who can help you in the future," Whitcomb says. "Remember that interviewers have their own network of contacts that will likely be valuable to you."
Selena Dehne is a career writer for JIST Publishing who shares the latest occupational, career and job search information available with job seekers and career changers. She is also the author of JIST's Job Search and Career Blog.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Six-Figure Jobs You Don't Need a College Degree For
Maybe you don't want to spend all that time taking classes in obscure subjects while hoping to find your calling and piling up student loan debt. Maybe you don't really care so much about college. You just want to work and make money.
You can do it, but there aren't many fields where it happens very often. In our list (see below) of 14 potentially six-figure jobs that don't require a four-year diploma, only two have a median wage of above $100,000. For the rest, you'll have to be in the top 10% of earners, and even then you may find yourself working 50 to 60 hours a week.
Dr. Al Lee, director of quantitative analysis at Payscale.com, says that most of these jobs share a few qualities. (Payscale's research provided the numbers that made this list possible. The company measured the average earnings for people with eight or more years in their field.)
No test can tell an employer how good you might be at some of these lines of work -- real estate broker or fashion designer, for example. That's why a degree is less important to a potential employer than field experience and demonstrated past success. Either you're good at it or you're not.
Many of these jobs rely on variable pay (commission and overtime) to break six figures. Good plumbers, ultrasound techs and construction managers generally do a lot of overtime. It's far more valuable to a company to pay them extra than to hire an additional employee, Lee says. And that means workers can break past what they would earn if confined to 40 hours a week.
Stress is pretty much a given in all these occupations. A high price for failure is not uncommon. Cost estimators can't estimate too high on a project or they'll risk losing it to a competitive bidder. They can't go too low or their company won't make money on the deal. Radiation therapists and ultrasound technologists have to worry about the danger of malpractice suits. Court reporters mustn't miss a word in the courtroom. Air traffic controllers know that hundreds of lives ride on their actions.
Almost all these positions produce revenue that can give them a clearly defined monetary value. An executive chef at a hotel can pull in guests or send them fleeing. An ultrasound technologist or radiation therapist paid $100,000 a year can bring the hospital several times that. A sales manager's value can often be pinpointed in dollars and cents at the end of the year. Also, a few of these jobs -- air traffic controller, police supervisor, court reporter -- have unions to thank for their good pay.
Lee says now is as good a time as any to start on the path to one of these jobs. The market may be in bad shape, but companies will still need competent workers. When better to find out if you're truly good at something than when it's most difficult?
He says of people who make more than $100,000, "At the end of the day, the largest percentage of them are degree-holders." But you definitely can get there this way -- not that it's easy. "You learn on the job. You pay attention. You move your way up."
Could it be time to design your five- or 10-year path to six figures? Below is a list of 14 options for possible six-figure jobs without a degree.
1. Real Estate Broker
2. Air Traffic Controller
3. Small Business Owner/Operator
4. Fashion Designer
5. Plumber, Pipe Fitter or Steamfitter
6. Non-Retail Sales Manager
7. Network/Data Communications Manager
8. Construction Superintendent/Manager
9. Radiation Therapist
10. Police and Detective Supervisor
11. Ultrasound Technologist
12. Hotel Executive Chef
13. Court Reporter
14. Construction Cost Estimator
You can do it, but there aren't many fields where it happens very often. In our list (see below) of 14 potentially six-figure jobs that don't require a four-year diploma, only two have a median wage of above $100,000. For the rest, you'll have to be in the top 10% of earners, and even then you may find yourself working 50 to 60 hours a week.
Dr. Al Lee, director of quantitative analysis at Payscale.com, says that most of these jobs share a few qualities. (Payscale's research provided the numbers that made this list possible. The company measured the average earnings for people with eight or more years in their field.)
No test can tell an employer how good you might be at some of these lines of work -- real estate broker or fashion designer, for example. That's why a degree is less important to a potential employer than field experience and demonstrated past success. Either you're good at it or you're not.
Many of these jobs rely on variable pay (commission and overtime) to break six figures. Good plumbers, ultrasound techs and construction managers generally do a lot of overtime. It's far more valuable to a company to pay them extra than to hire an additional employee, Lee says. And that means workers can break past what they would earn if confined to 40 hours a week.
Stress is pretty much a given in all these occupations. A high price for failure is not uncommon. Cost estimators can't estimate too high on a project or they'll risk losing it to a competitive bidder. They can't go too low or their company won't make money on the deal. Radiation therapists and ultrasound technologists have to worry about the danger of malpractice suits. Court reporters mustn't miss a word in the courtroom. Air traffic controllers know that hundreds of lives ride on their actions.
Almost all these positions produce revenue that can give them a clearly defined monetary value. An executive chef at a hotel can pull in guests or send them fleeing. An ultrasound technologist or radiation therapist paid $100,000 a year can bring the hospital several times that. A sales manager's value can often be pinpointed in dollars and cents at the end of the year. Also, a few of these jobs -- air traffic controller, police supervisor, court reporter -- have unions to thank for their good pay.
Lee says now is as good a time as any to start on the path to one of these jobs. The market may be in bad shape, but companies will still need competent workers. When better to find out if you're truly good at something than when it's most difficult?
He says of people who make more than $100,000, "At the end of the day, the largest percentage of them are degree-holders." But you definitely can get there this way -- not that it's easy. "You learn on the job. You pay attention. You move your way up."
Could it be time to design your five- or 10-year path to six figures? Below is a list of 14 options for possible six-figure jobs without a degree.
1. Real Estate Broker
2. Air Traffic Controller
3. Small Business Owner/Operator
4. Fashion Designer
5. Plumber, Pipe Fitter or Steamfitter
6. Non-Retail Sales Manager
7. Network/Data Communications Manager
8. Construction Superintendent/Manager
9. Radiation Therapist
10. Police and Detective Supervisor
11. Ultrasound Technologist
12. Hotel Executive Chef
13. Court Reporter
14. Construction Cost Estimator
Monday, January 19, 2009
10 Questions Never to Ask in Job Interviews
You know enough to bring a list of questions to a job interview. When the interviewer asks you, "So, do you have any questions for me?" the last thing? You want to say is "No." But that could be the best option if you're at a loss for words, because some interview questions are better left unasked.
Here are 10 highly unsuitable interview questions that should never make an appearance, unless you don't want the job:
1. "What does your company do?"
This was a reasonable interview question in 1950 or in 1980, before the Internet existed. Today, it's your job to research any company you're interviewing with before setting foot in the door. We need to show up for a job interview knowing what the employer does, who its competitors are, and which of its accomplishments (or challenges) have made the news lately.
2. "Are you going to do a background check?"
It is amazing how many job candidates ask this question, which provokes alarm on the part of the interviewer, instead of the more general, "Can you please tell me a little about your selection process, from this point on?" Lots of people have credit issues that cause them worry during a job search, or aren't sure how solid their references from a previous job might be. If you're invited for a second interview, you can broach any sensitive topics from your past then. Asking "Will you do a background check?" makes you look like a person with something to hide.
3. "When will I be eligible for a raise?"
Companies fear underpaying people almost as much as they fear overpaying them, because a person who's underpaid vis-a-vis his counterparts in the job market is a person with one eye on the career sites. Instead of asking about your first raise before you've got the job, you can ask (at a second interview) "Does your organization do a conventional one-year performance and salary review?"
4. "Do you have any other jobs available?"
A job search requires quick thinking about straight talk, and if a job is far below your abilities, you're better off saying so than beating around the bush with this question. You don't have to take yourself out of the running; you can say, "The job sounds interesting, but frankly I was earning 30% more and supervising people in my last job. Could you help me understand the career path for this role?" That's the cue for the interviewer, if he or she is on the ball, to highlight another job opening that might exist.
5. "How soon can I transfer to another position?"
You're broadcasting "I'm outta here at the first chance" when you ask this question. If you like the job, take the job. If it's not for you, wait for the right opportunity. Almost every employer will keep you in your seat for at least one year before approving an internal transfer, so a job-search bait-and-switch probably won't work out the way you'd hoped.
6. "Can you tell me about bus lines to your facility?"
Get online and research this yourself. It's not your employer's problem to figure out how you get to work.
7. "Do you have smoking breaks?"
If you're working in retail or in a call center, you could ask about breaks. Everyone else, keep mum; if your need to smoke intrudes so much on your work life that you feel the need to ask about it, ask your best friend or significant other for smoking-cessation help as a new-job present. Lots of companies don't permit smoking anywhere on the premises, and some don't like to hire smokers at all. Why give an employer a reason to turn you down?
8. "Is [my medical condition] covered under your insurance?"
This is a bad question on two counts. You don't want to tell a perfect stranger about your medical issues, especially one who's deciding whether or not to hire you. Ask to see a copy of the company's benefits booklet when an offer has been extended. This is also a bad question from a judgment standpoint; no department managers and only a tiny percentage of HR people could be expected to know on a condition-by-condition basis what's covered under the health plan. Anyway, your pre-existing condition won't be covered under most corporate plans for at least a year.
9. "Do you do a drug test?"
If you have a philosophical objection to drug tests, wait until they ask you to take a drug test and tell them about your objection. Otherwise, your question sounds like, "I'd fail a drug test," so don't ask.
10. "If you hire me, can I wait until [more than three weeks from now] to start the job?"Employers expect you to give two weeks' notice. If you're not working, they'd love to see you more quickly. If you ask for tons of time off before you start working -- unless you have a very good reason -- the employer may think, "How serious is this candidate about working?" In any case, a start-date extension is something to request after you've got the offer in hand, not before.
Liz Ryan is a 25-year HR veteran, former Fortune 500 VP and an internationally recognized expert on careers and the new millennium workplace. Contact Liz at liz@asklizryan.com or join the Ask Liz Ryan online community at www.asklizryan/group.
The opinions expressed in this column are solely the author's.
Here are 10 highly unsuitable interview questions that should never make an appearance, unless you don't want the job:
1. "What does your company do?"
This was a reasonable interview question in 1950 or in 1980, before the Internet existed. Today, it's your job to research any company you're interviewing with before setting foot in the door. We need to show up for a job interview knowing what the employer does, who its competitors are, and which of its accomplishments (or challenges) have made the news lately.
2. "Are you going to do a background check?"
It is amazing how many job candidates ask this question, which provokes alarm on the part of the interviewer, instead of the more general, "Can you please tell me a little about your selection process, from this point on?" Lots of people have credit issues that cause them worry during a job search, or aren't sure how solid their references from a previous job might be. If you're invited for a second interview, you can broach any sensitive topics from your past then. Asking "Will you do a background check?" makes you look like a person with something to hide.
3. "When will I be eligible for a raise?"
Companies fear underpaying people almost as much as they fear overpaying them, because a person who's underpaid vis-a-vis his counterparts in the job market is a person with one eye on the career sites. Instead of asking about your first raise before you've got the job, you can ask (at a second interview) "Does your organization do a conventional one-year performance and salary review?"
4. "Do you have any other jobs available?"
A job search requires quick thinking about straight talk, and if a job is far below your abilities, you're better off saying so than beating around the bush with this question. You don't have to take yourself out of the running; you can say, "The job sounds interesting, but frankly I was earning 30% more and supervising people in my last job. Could you help me understand the career path for this role?" That's the cue for the interviewer, if he or she is on the ball, to highlight another job opening that might exist.
5. "How soon can I transfer to another position?"
You're broadcasting "I'm outta here at the first chance" when you ask this question. If you like the job, take the job. If it's not for you, wait for the right opportunity. Almost every employer will keep you in your seat for at least one year before approving an internal transfer, so a job-search bait-and-switch probably won't work out the way you'd hoped.
6. "Can you tell me about bus lines to your facility?"
Get online and research this yourself. It's not your employer's problem to figure out how you get to work.
7. "Do you have smoking breaks?"
If you're working in retail or in a call center, you could ask about breaks. Everyone else, keep mum; if your need to smoke intrudes so much on your work life that you feel the need to ask about it, ask your best friend or significant other for smoking-cessation help as a new-job present. Lots of companies don't permit smoking anywhere on the premises, and some don't like to hire smokers at all. Why give an employer a reason to turn you down?
8. "Is [my medical condition] covered under your insurance?"
This is a bad question on two counts. You don't want to tell a perfect stranger about your medical issues, especially one who's deciding whether or not to hire you. Ask to see a copy of the company's benefits booklet when an offer has been extended. This is also a bad question from a judgment standpoint; no department managers and only a tiny percentage of HR people could be expected to know on a condition-by-condition basis what's covered under the health plan. Anyway, your pre-existing condition won't be covered under most corporate plans for at least a year.
9. "Do you do a drug test?"
If you have a philosophical objection to drug tests, wait until they ask you to take a drug test and tell them about your objection. Otherwise, your question sounds like, "I'd fail a drug test," so don't ask.
10. "If you hire me, can I wait until [more than three weeks from now] to start the job?"Employers expect you to give two weeks' notice. If you're not working, they'd love to see you more quickly. If you ask for tons of time off before you start working -- unless you have a very good reason -- the employer may think, "How serious is this candidate about working?" In any case, a start-date extension is something to request after you've got the offer in hand, not before.
Liz Ryan is a 25-year HR veteran, former Fortune 500 VP and an internationally recognized expert on careers and the new millennium workplace. Contact Liz at liz@asklizryan.com or join the Ask Liz Ryan online community at www.asklizryan/group.
The opinions expressed in this column are solely the author's.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Careers That Can Fight Recession
The economic news certainly looks grim, but there are strong sectors in the economy that will continue to hire through the end of the decade. Some professions that require advanced or post-graduate degrees will rise, but perhaps the best news of all amidst the gloom is that many career openings will require candidates to hold only a two-year college degree.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has identified the fastest-growing occupations and career groups that are predicted to enjoy the largest numerical increases in personnel through 2016, and has ranked them by the amount of education necessary to enter the profession. Health care, education, and technology employers should continue to offer the most promising projections in total numbers in hiring, especially since the key roles cannot be outsourced and Americans will need their services and expertise despite the ups and downs in the economy.
Let's examine the top-growing fields by sector and educational requirements.
Health care Keeps Going Strong
The health care sector should remain one of the sturdiest fields through the decade, with needs for:
* Personal and Home Health care Aids: Associate's degree. The second-fastest growing professional field in all careers will be for home health aids, members of a service occupation predicted to grow by an astounding 50 percent through 2007. Online associate's degree programs can provide training for the field.
* Dental Hygienists: Associate's degree. Some Americans without insurance seek dental work abroad. Most, however, do not have their tooth and gum care outsourced. Jobs for hygienists are predicted to grow by 30 percent through 2016.
* Registered Nurses: Associate's or bachelor's degree. The largest health care occupation that will add 587,000 new jobs between 2006-2016. Get career training through an online associate or RN to BSN degree program.
* Physical Therapists: Master's degree. Aging population will drive job growth as the field increases its number of professionals by 27 percent. Positions will be especially good in acute hospital, orthopedic, and rehabilitation centers.
* Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselors: Bachelor's or master's degree. Some government and public agencies will hire counselors with bachelor's degrees, however most employers will recruit graduates holding master's degrees. The BLS predicts a 34 percent increase in jobs for substance abuse counselors and a 30 percent overall rise in positions for mental health counselors.
Education Hiring Appears Steady
Teachers in public and private elementary schools will still be in demand, as will post-secondary teachers, instructors, and professors. Hiring needs should be sparked by retirements, despite the economy.
* Elementary school teachers: Bachelor's degree, certification/credential. Openings for elementary school teachers will be best in states undergoing high enrollments (Nevada, Arizona, Texas, and Georgia) and in rural districts. Some states are allowing fast-track online credentialing programs to meet demands.
* Post-secondary teachers: Master's degree or doctorate. The BLS predicts a 23 percent increase in hiring. Community colleges and some universities may hire candidates with master's or master's in fine arts degrees. Four-year colleges offering tenure-track positions prefer doctoral degrees.
Technology Sectors Retain Priorities
As the crunch deepens, businesses will be looking for consultants in IT management and support to help streamline services, hold the bottom line, and bolster operating efficiency. It's positive to consider that some 90 percent of all current IT employees are employed by non-technology businesses and organizations. Globalization increases the need for engineers and researchers with career expertise--as well as an ongoing need for entry-level support staff.
* Computer Support Specialists. Associate's or bachelor's degree. Expect increases to reach 18 percent over the decade despite outsourcing. Graduates with career training in technical support, customer service, and certifications will move to the front of the hiring line.
* Computer Software Engineers, Applications: Bachelor's degree. This is where the jobs are, according to the BLS. The BLS is predicting a 38 percent increase in overall hiring through 2016, generating 324,000 new openings. You'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science or programming to compete, and a post-graduate degree and additional certifications to rise in the field.
* Computer and Information Scientists, Research: Doctorate. There's room (and security) at the top. Jobs for computer scientists and database administrators are predicted to grow by 37 percent during the 2006-2016 decade. Many advanced IT managers and project leaders choose to escape private companies for the relative security of college and university research labs that offer tenure.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has identified the fastest-growing occupations and career groups that are predicted to enjoy the largest numerical increases in personnel through 2016, and has ranked them by the amount of education necessary to enter the profession. Health care, education, and technology employers should continue to offer the most promising projections in total numbers in hiring, especially since the key roles cannot be outsourced and Americans will need their services and expertise despite the ups and downs in the economy.
Let's examine the top-growing fields by sector and educational requirements.
Health care Keeps Going Strong
The health care sector should remain one of the sturdiest fields through the decade, with needs for:
* Personal and Home Health care Aids: Associate's degree. The second-fastest growing professional field in all careers will be for home health aids, members of a service occupation predicted to grow by an astounding 50 percent through 2007. Online associate's degree programs can provide training for the field.
* Dental Hygienists: Associate's degree. Some Americans without insurance seek dental work abroad. Most, however, do not have their tooth and gum care outsourced. Jobs for hygienists are predicted to grow by 30 percent through 2016.
* Registered Nurses: Associate's or bachelor's degree. The largest health care occupation that will add 587,000 new jobs between 2006-2016. Get career training through an online associate or RN to BSN degree program.
* Physical Therapists: Master's degree. Aging population will drive job growth as the field increases its number of professionals by 27 percent. Positions will be especially good in acute hospital, orthopedic, and rehabilitation centers.
* Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselors: Bachelor's or master's degree. Some government and public agencies will hire counselors with bachelor's degrees, however most employers will recruit graduates holding master's degrees. The BLS predicts a 34 percent increase in jobs for substance abuse counselors and a 30 percent overall rise in positions for mental health counselors.
Education Hiring Appears Steady
Teachers in public and private elementary schools will still be in demand, as will post-secondary teachers, instructors, and professors. Hiring needs should be sparked by retirements, despite the economy.
* Elementary school teachers: Bachelor's degree, certification/credential. Openings for elementary school teachers will be best in states undergoing high enrollments (Nevada, Arizona, Texas, and Georgia) and in rural districts. Some states are allowing fast-track online credentialing programs to meet demands.
* Post-secondary teachers: Master's degree or doctorate. The BLS predicts a 23 percent increase in hiring. Community colleges and some universities may hire candidates with master's or master's in fine arts degrees. Four-year colleges offering tenure-track positions prefer doctoral degrees.
Technology Sectors Retain Priorities
As the crunch deepens, businesses will be looking for consultants in IT management and support to help streamline services, hold the bottom line, and bolster operating efficiency. It's positive to consider that some 90 percent of all current IT employees are employed by non-technology businesses and organizations. Globalization increases the need for engineers and researchers with career expertise--as well as an ongoing need for entry-level support staff.
* Computer Support Specialists. Associate's or bachelor's degree. Expect increases to reach 18 percent over the decade despite outsourcing. Graduates with career training in technical support, customer service, and certifications will move to the front of the hiring line.
* Computer Software Engineers, Applications: Bachelor's degree. This is where the jobs are, according to the BLS. The BLS is predicting a 38 percent increase in overall hiring through 2016, generating 324,000 new openings. You'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science or programming to compete, and a post-graduate degree and additional certifications to rise in the field.
* Computer and Information Scientists, Research: Doctorate. There's room (and security) at the top. Jobs for computer scientists and database administrators are predicted to grow by 37 percent during the 2006-2016 decade. Many advanced IT managers and project leaders choose to escape private companies for the relative security of college and university research labs that offer tenure.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
10 Hot Professions for 2009
As the global economy continues to falter, job prospects for 2009 are expected to slow. But if you're lucky enough to be in one of these top fields, your job future is still quite bright. Take a look at this list below and either thank your lucky stars that your job is already on it, or consider seeking the education and experience for the career that most interests you.
Auditor. With all of the economic upheaval, businesses are being watched more carefully than ever. "There is a lot of money flowing into companies right now due to the stimulus package," says Ron Mitchell, CEO and co-founder of GottaMentor, a career coaching service located in New York City. "And, we've all seen some issues with, 'Where is this money going to?'" He adds that auditors are mostly working for the big four [accounting firms] and also as internal auditors. Average Yearly Salary - $64,914
Career Counselor. More folks than usual are starting off the new year without a job in sight. How can the out-of-work find gainful employment? From outplacement agencies to government programs, career counselors and coaches will be very busy in 2009 helping make things easier. Mitchell encourages those seeking work to get professional help, saying, "Many individuals will need to completely re-engineer their careers. In order to do that, people need personalized guidance and feedback from an expert counselor." Average Yearly Salary - $54,426
Counselor. Besides their bank accounts, people's self-esteem and confidence are getting hit hard these days. "People's self worth is tied up in their job, so you have a huge identity crisis happening. Counseling and mental health services will be in high demand," says Mitchell. Guidance and some soul-searching can result in new and better careers for those in transition. Average Yearly Salary - $40,275
Public Relations Specialist. Rather than promoting a line of sparkly, new products or an exciting initiative, many public relations professionals will spend the upcoming year smoothing over unfortunate events. Mitchell predicts: "Being able to tell a story about major layoffs, reduced sales, and failed mergers, without causing a panic in the market, will become even more important." Average Yearly Salary - $44,334
Factor. A what? Didn't you study those in algebra? While this career is fairly foreign to most folks, now that bank loans are hard to come by, factoring allows small business to get funding based on their current accounts receivable -- the money they expect to have coming in. Factoring works well for retailers and other businesses that have big receivables. Mitchell explains that factoring is a legitimate source of funds in hard times. He says, "It's a huge business and, at a time when people can't get other types of lending, factors are skilled experts at lending against accounts receivables." Average Yearly Salary - $79,846
Health-Care Technician. You may know that nurses are in demand, but what about the folks they work with? "There's never enough of them, like radiology technicians, lab assistants, and home health aides. Health-care is the largest industry in the country, and in the more technical aspects of those careers we have a huge shortage of personnel," says Mitchell. Average Yearly Salary (Pharmacy Technician) - $32,531
Mechanical Engineer (and all engineering fields). With every passing year, more skilled-labor jobs are replaced by complex automation or robotics systems. For example, some hospitals have turned to "robotic pharmacies" to help dispense medication. It's the engineers who help build these automated systems, says Jim Turnquist, director of career services at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Mich. "In the U.S. we only graduate 70,000 engineers per year, but we're going to need 100,000 per year. The demand is going to go way up." Average Yearly Salary - $71,490
Networking/System Administrator. Since almost all business transactions these days are done with the assistance of a vast computer network, the people who understand how to keep computer networks running smoothly are critically important -- and consequently, in high demand. "Network and system administrators maintain the company's infrastructure. People need people to fix and monitor their infrastructure, keep them updated," Mitchell says. Average Yearly Salary - $54,193
Nurse. The health-care field has been booming for a long time, and all signs indicate it will continue to do so, says Turnquist. He also says college students and people looking for a new job field would be wise to consider physical therapy and similar "exercise science" fields, since aging Baby Boomers will be looking for ways to remain active long into their later years. Average Yearly Salary (Registered Nurse) - $53,840
Software Designer/Developer. Companies from all sectors of the economy are looking for software engineers and programmers, says Turnquist. This is because society in general is becoming more tech-dependent -- just think of how rapidly cell phones change with each passing year -- requiring software developers that can stay abreast of all the changes. Average Yearly Salary - $72,070
Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with 5-8 years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions or profit sharing.
Auditor. With all of the economic upheaval, businesses are being watched more carefully than ever. "There is a lot of money flowing into companies right now due to the stimulus package," says Ron Mitchell, CEO and co-founder of GottaMentor, a career coaching service located in New York City. "And, we've all seen some issues with, 'Where is this money going to?'" He adds that auditors are mostly working for the big four [accounting firms] and also as internal auditors. Average Yearly Salary - $64,914
Career Counselor. More folks than usual are starting off the new year without a job in sight. How can the out-of-work find gainful employment? From outplacement agencies to government programs, career counselors and coaches will be very busy in 2009 helping make things easier. Mitchell encourages those seeking work to get professional help, saying, "Many individuals will need to completely re-engineer their careers. In order to do that, people need personalized guidance and feedback from an expert counselor." Average Yearly Salary - $54,426
Counselor. Besides their bank accounts, people's self-esteem and confidence are getting hit hard these days. "People's self worth is tied up in their job, so you have a huge identity crisis happening. Counseling and mental health services will be in high demand," says Mitchell. Guidance and some soul-searching can result in new and better careers for those in transition. Average Yearly Salary - $40,275
Public Relations Specialist. Rather than promoting a line of sparkly, new products or an exciting initiative, many public relations professionals will spend the upcoming year smoothing over unfortunate events. Mitchell predicts: "Being able to tell a story about major layoffs, reduced sales, and failed mergers, without causing a panic in the market, will become even more important." Average Yearly Salary - $44,334
Factor. A what? Didn't you study those in algebra? While this career is fairly foreign to most folks, now that bank loans are hard to come by, factoring allows small business to get funding based on their current accounts receivable -- the money they expect to have coming in. Factoring works well for retailers and other businesses that have big receivables. Mitchell explains that factoring is a legitimate source of funds in hard times. He says, "It's a huge business and, at a time when people can't get other types of lending, factors are skilled experts at lending against accounts receivables." Average Yearly Salary - $79,846
Health-Care Technician. You may know that nurses are in demand, but what about the folks they work with? "There's never enough of them, like radiology technicians, lab assistants, and home health aides. Health-care is the largest industry in the country, and in the more technical aspects of those careers we have a huge shortage of personnel," says Mitchell. Average Yearly Salary (Pharmacy Technician) - $32,531
Mechanical Engineer (and all engineering fields). With every passing year, more skilled-labor jobs are replaced by complex automation or robotics systems. For example, some hospitals have turned to "robotic pharmacies" to help dispense medication. It's the engineers who help build these automated systems, says Jim Turnquist, director of career services at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Mich. "In the U.S. we only graduate 70,000 engineers per year, but we're going to need 100,000 per year. The demand is going to go way up." Average Yearly Salary - $71,490
Networking/System Administrator. Since almost all business transactions these days are done with the assistance of a vast computer network, the people who understand how to keep computer networks running smoothly are critically important -- and consequently, in high demand. "Network and system administrators maintain the company's infrastructure. People need people to fix and monitor their infrastructure, keep them updated," Mitchell says. Average Yearly Salary - $54,193
Nurse. The health-care field has been booming for a long time, and all signs indicate it will continue to do so, says Turnquist. He also says college students and people looking for a new job field would be wise to consider physical therapy and similar "exercise science" fields, since aging Baby Boomers will be looking for ways to remain active long into their later years. Average Yearly Salary (Registered Nurse) - $53,840
Software Designer/Developer. Companies from all sectors of the economy are looking for software engineers and programmers, says Turnquist. This is because society in general is becoming more tech-dependent -- just think of how rapidly cell phones change with each passing year -- requiring software developers that can stay abreast of all the changes. Average Yearly Salary - $72,070
Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with 5-8 years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions or profit sharing.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
15 Simple Ways to Keep Your Partner Happy
Here are some ideas to get you started doing these "little things" she really wants:
1. Rub her feet instead of asking her if she wants you to rub her feet. Make it look like you want to do it.
2. Make her dinner one night. Don't ask her if she wants you to make dinner. Make her dinner before she gets home.
3. Light a candle so that she arrives home to a nice environment instead of coming home to the glaring lights of the television and other things.
4. Send her a text in the middle of the day telling her "I miss your smile from this morning" or "Last night was amazing!" or "The conversation we had last night was great."
5. Send an eCard in the middle of the day... something cute to remind her how much you really care about her.
6. If she's going on a business trip, offer to drive her to the airport or pick her up to make her life that much easier.
7. Let her have control of the remote control. Don't monopolize it for a change. Just give it to her and let her actually sit there and enjoying watching one of her shows. Then you can share one of her interests by watching it with her.
8. Offer to iron one of her shirts or take her clothes to the dry cleaner.
9. Clean up the bathroom without being asked. Don't just sit there and ignore the mess around the toilet. If you know it drives her crazy to see water splashed all around the sink, dry that area after you use it.
10. If you work out together, enjoy it with her instead of rushing through your own workout and then not letting her workout at the same time.
11. Take a shower together, then wash her hair, scrub her back, and give her a spa treatment. Do this and enjoy it!
12. The next time she gives you a massage, give her a massage the next day. Offer it! Don't just say you'll give her a massage...do it!
13. Surprise her by making plans. Tell her, "We're going out tonight honey." You can even just go out for a drink or dinner somewhere. It's taking the initiative that's important.
14. Decide on and set aside one night a week as date night. Have a date like when you first started dating.
15. Call her in the middle of the day and just say hello. Don't wait for her to call you.
It can be simple to keep her satisfied. It's not necessarily about what you give her financially or what gifts you give her. That's a cop out. It's the little things. The guy who makes the biggest mistake is the one who ignores their significant other then all of a sudden give them an expensive gift to make up for it. That doesn't make up for it at all.
1. Rub her feet instead of asking her if she wants you to rub her feet. Make it look like you want to do it.
2. Make her dinner one night. Don't ask her if she wants you to make dinner. Make her dinner before she gets home.
3. Light a candle so that she arrives home to a nice environment instead of coming home to the glaring lights of the television and other things.
4. Send her a text in the middle of the day telling her "I miss your smile from this morning" or "Last night was amazing!" or "The conversation we had last night was great."
5. Send an eCard in the middle of the day... something cute to remind her how much you really care about her.
6. If she's going on a business trip, offer to drive her to the airport or pick her up to make her life that much easier.
7. Let her have control of the remote control. Don't monopolize it for a change. Just give it to her and let her actually sit there and enjoying watching one of her shows. Then you can share one of her interests by watching it with her.
8. Offer to iron one of her shirts or take her clothes to the dry cleaner.
9. Clean up the bathroom without being asked. Don't just sit there and ignore the mess around the toilet. If you know it drives her crazy to see water splashed all around the sink, dry that area after you use it.
10. If you work out together, enjoy it with her instead of rushing through your own workout and then not letting her workout at the same time.
11. Take a shower together, then wash her hair, scrub her back, and give her a spa treatment. Do this and enjoy it!
12. The next time she gives you a massage, give her a massage the next day. Offer it! Don't just say you'll give her a massage...do it!
13. Surprise her by making plans. Tell her, "We're going out tonight honey." You can even just go out for a drink or dinner somewhere. It's taking the initiative that's important.
14. Decide on and set aside one night a week as date night. Have a date like when you first started dating.
15. Call her in the middle of the day and just say hello. Don't wait for her to call you.
It can be simple to keep her satisfied. It's not necessarily about what you give her financially or what gifts you give her. That's a cop out. It's the little things. The guy who makes the biggest mistake is the one who ignores their significant other then all of a sudden give them an expensive gift to make up for it. That doesn't make up for it at all.
8 ways to ruin your chances to retire
1.Spend too much
The most obvious way to ensure that only death's sweet embrace will release you from the bonds of employment is simply by saving nothing and spending a lot.
Spending more than you should on things you feel you need, but could easily live without, is an effective way to mess up your retirement plan, says Ralph Lunt, a Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Financial Consultant at Strategic Capital Advisors in Cleveland.
Vacations, new cars, expensive home remodeling can all feel like necessities. "You have to ask, can I afford it?" says Lunt. "Then you have to crunch the numbers -- and maybe if you cut back in other areas you can afford it -- maybe skipping a vacation or not eating out so much."
If you don't want to retire, skip the self-assessment and get out that credit card!
2.Save little or nothing
In America, spending is in our collective DNA, but saving is not.
For the slackers who think they might want, or even need, to quit working at some point, most experts recommend saving for retirement in a tax-advantaged plan, for instance, a 401(k). Further, workers should contribute, at minimum, enough to get the match offered by their employers, if they offer matching contributions.
Some experts contend that just contributing the match is not enough at all and the contribution should be upward of 10 percent. "It's always, 'Yes, I'll put in enough to get the match, but that's it,'" says Dallas-based Certified Financial Planner Chanc Woods, a member of the Financial Planning Association.
"Why not put in another 2 (percent) or 3 percent? It won't affect your take-home pay that much," he says.
The Employee Benefit Research Institute's annual survey released in April found that 22 percent of workers surveyed have not saved at all for retirement -- or for anything else for that matter.
3.Ignore other savings vehicles
If your job doesn't come with benefits, as is the case at many small businesses, then obviously, you're totally off the hook -- working well beyond your twilight years is virtually assured. After all, it's not like there are any alternatives for deprived employees or the self-employed, for that matter.
Delude yourself no further. You do have options. Take, for instance, the SEP-IRA or the individual 401(k) plan for the self-employed. IRAs allow workers to save up to $5,000 annually ($6,000 in 2008 if you're over 50), as long as they earn at least that amount.
And those who don't want to deal with tax-deferred savings vehicles have no options either, right? Clearly, if an account is not specifically designated for retirement, it really shouldn't be used.
No.
"The younger generation is only putting money into a 401(k), if that. They don't know that there are taxable brokerage accounts or Roth IRAs that you can put money into," says Dallas-based Certified Financial Planner Chanc Woods.
With many investment and savings vehicles available, no one should feel limited to only one kind of account unless they see themselves bagging groceries at 85.
If they are actually contributing the maximum allowed annually to their 401(k) plan, up to $15,500 ($5,000 more for those age 50 or over), they might even be able to afford a round-the-world voyage on the Queen Elizabeth II once they kiss their jobs goodbye. But those who'd rather float on a rubber mattress when they're not punching the time clock can always set their sights lower.
4.Disregard taxes
Some people may wait to screw up their retirement. Though the process of not saving can last a lifetime, actual savings may not when it comes time to get a distribution from a tax-deferred account.
Lunt says that people typically think that now that they're retired, they won't have to pay income taxes anymore.
"Often people make incorrect assumptions about what their lives will be like in retirement," says Certified Financial Planner Paula de Vos, president of Synergist Wealth Advisors. "They think they will be in a lower tax bracket, but they may be in a higher one."
Unless your retirement savings have been invested in a Roth IRA or a Roth 401(k), distributions will be taxed as ordinary income. "That could be 25 (percent) to 30 percent less in retirement dollars that someone isn't expecting," says Woods.
Plus, he says, a lot of people feel that income tax rates now are the lowest they'll ever be. A look back in history proves that. It's been higher most of the time. In the 1940s, the top marginal tax rate was 94 percent for individuals with taxable income of more than $200,000 (a lot of money in those days, true). But this just goes to show you that prospective retirees could be looking at paying higher rates than today's top rate of 35 percent.
Though they're completely unavoidable, taxes have to be considered when planning for retirement income. If you go to all the trouble of saving and then end up with less income than you expect, it can definitely ruin your retirement -- or at least put a damper on it.
5.Overestimate portfolio earnings
Compounding interest is indeed magical. A little money plus a lot of time can equal a lot of money. But there's only so much it can do with the variables involved.
Retirement hopefuls who dillydally in their savings efforts may find the time portion of the equation so drastically reduced as to be somewhat ineffectual without lots of money thrown in.
Similarly, young people whose savings start strong and then taper off might find that they could have accumulated much more money had they just saved more consistently over time.
Plus, failing to account for market volatility could have would-be Warren Buffetts wishing they had put most of their money in CDs some days.
People sometimes assume constant growth rates, says CFP Paula de Vos, president of Synergist Wealth Advisors.
"They overestimate the amount of certainty in an uncertain world, and it's something you have to maintain vigilance over," she says.
6.Miscalculate lifetime earnings
Some optimistic people assume that one day their paltry income will catch up with their spending and they'll finally have more than enough money to pay their mortgage off, save for retirement and pay down debts.
"The economy has been pretty nice to us over the past 10 or 20 years, and kids don't know what it was like in tough bear markets," says Dallas-based CFP Chanc Woods, member of the Financial Planning Association.
"The great Depression was so long ago that kids don't know how difficult the job market can be, or how bad the economy could get. Everyone knows that they should have three to six months of expenses saved up, but instead everyone is trying to be cool and buying nice cars and clothes," he says.
That throw-caution-to-the-wind-type thinking lends itself to the work-until-you-die lifestyle. By assuming that things will get better and the worst will never happen, there's a pretty good chance you'll find yourself broke and trying to catch up. Probably well before retirement.
7.Adopt the ostrich-style planning approach
If you've been able to tune out advertising messages and instead accidentally scrimped and saved for your golden years and find yourself doing pretty well, don't worry -- there are still plenty of ways to go wrong.
For instance, without a plan for every aspect of retirement, things can go seriously awry. From long-term care needs to the death of a spouse, any number of factors can derail a plan. The what-ifs could keep a less sanguine person up at night.
"Part of a retirement plan is knowing that we're saving this much every month and we're 35 and at a 5 percent return in 30 years we're going to have all this money," says CFP Ralph Lunt, vice president and chief financial officer at Strategic Capital Advisors. "Well, what if one of us isn't here next month?"
Term life insurance may provide some peace of mind here by providing funds to a surviving spouse or children.
Any catastrophe can potentially change long-term financial plans irreversibly. "Just in the state of Texas, an assisted-living facility, nursing home or home health care runs about $150 to $170 a day just for the care. The average need is just over three years," says Dallas-based CFP Chanc Woods.
Long-term care insurance, though somewhat pricey, can guard against depleting your estate or your family's funds in the event of an ongoing medical issue. According to AARP, about 60 percent of people over age 65 will need some kind of long-term care.
Health care can eat into retirement plans as well. The Employee Benefit Research Institute estimates that the upper range of out-of-pocket medical expenses in retirement for a 65-year-old couple ranges from $235,000 to $376,000. Those figures can potentially almost double for a couple with large prescription needs and only Medicare and Medicare supplements.
The figures are lower if you're willing to roll the dice for a 50 percent chance of having enough money rather than 90 percent, as above. To have a 50-50 chance of having enough money to cover health care costs in retirement, a 65-year-old couple could need between $154,000 and $246,000.
While some people may enjoy the security of buying life and long-term care insurance, others prefer to use another type of time-tested, though historically risky, long-term care insurance -- having lots of kids. It is hoped you raised them all to be doctors or nurses.
8.Remain ignorant about investments
Though actually socking away dollars goes against the never-retire plan, using that money ineffectively can hamstring any retirement efforts.
Ignorance when it comes to your investments can slow down growth. A typical blunder is to own several funds of the same category, for instance, holding two large-cap value funds. Anyone can easily trip up good intentions by disregarding the value of asset allocation and diversification.
"People may underestimate the power and the benefit of a globally diversified portfolio. Because a portfolio has a bunch of different things does not mean that it is a globally diversified portfolio," clarifies CFP Paula de Vos, president of Synergist Wealth Advisors.
It may take professional help. For anyone who doesn't have the time to plan, fee-only financial advisers can map out a route to retirement without the detours that many people inadvertently take. Use Bankrate's database to find a Certified Financial Planner professional near you.
From rolling over 401(k) plans to choosing a place to keep your IRA, the choices can be overwhelming and lead busy people to make hasty, uninformed choices.
"Sometimes when people are looking to roll over qualified plans, they don't necessarily explore all of the benefits or detriments in assessing whether it's the right thing for them to do in a given instance," says de Vos. From tax, legal and financial standpoints, she adds, "They are fairly complicated."
Whether you do it yourself or have someone to help you, planning is essential unless, of course, you want to work until you die.
"Certainly the day you retire isn't the first day you should be thinking about it," says CFP Ralph Lunt, vice president and chief financial officer at Strategic Capital Advisors.
The most obvious way to ensure that only death's sweet embrace will release you from the bonds of employment is simply by saving nothing and spending a lot.
Spending more than you should on things you feel you need, but could easily live without, is an effective way to mess up your retirement plan, says Ralph Lunt, a Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Financial Consultant at Strategic Capital Advisors in Cleveland.
Vacations, new cars, expensive home remodeling can all feel like necessities. "You have to ask, can I afford it?" says Lunt. "Then you have to crunch the numbers -- and maybe if you cut back in other areas you can afford it -- maybe skipping a vacation or not eating out so much."
If you don't want to retire, skip the self-assessment and get out that credit card!
2.Save little or nothing
In America, spending is in our collective DNA, but saving is not.
For the slackers who think they might want, or even need, to quit working at some point, most experts recommend saving for retirement in a tax-advantaged plan, for instance, a 401(k). Further, workers should contribute, at minimum, enough to get the match offered by their employers, if they offer matching contributions.
Some experts contend that just contributing the match is not enough at all and the contribution should be upward of 10 percent. "It's always, 'Yes, I'll put in enough to get the match, but that's it,'" says Dallas-based Certified Financial Planner Chanc Woods, a member of the Financial Planning Association.
"Why not put in another 2 (percent) or 3 percent? It won't affect your take-home pay that much," he says.
The Employee Benefit Research Institute's annual survey released in April found that 22 percent of workers surveyed have not saved at all for retirement -- or for anything else for that matter.
3.Ignore other savings vehicles
If your job doesn't come with benefits, as is the case at many small businesses, then obviously, you're totally off the hook -- working well beyond your twilight years is virtually assured. After all, it's not like there are any alternatives for deprived employees or the self-employed, for that matter.
Delude yourself no further. You do have options. Take, for instance, the SEP-IRA or the individual 401(k) plan for the self-employed. IRAs allow workers to save up to $5,000 annually ($6,000 in 2008 if you're over 50), as long as they earn at least that amount.
And those who don't want to deal with tax-deferred savings vehicles have no options either, right? Clearly, if an account is not specifically designated for retirement, it really shouldn't be used.
No.
"The younger generation is only putting money into a 401(k), if that. They don't know that there are taxable brokerage accounts or Roth IRAs that you can put money into," says Dallas-based Certified Financial Planner Chanc Woods.
With many investment and savings vehicles available, no one should feel limited to only one kind of account unless they see themselves bagging groceries at 85.
If they are actually contributing the maximum allowed annually to their 401(k) plan, up to $15,500 ($5,000 more for those age 50 or over), they might even be able to afford a round-the-world voyage on the Queen Elizabeth II once they kiss their jobs goodbye. But those who'd rather float on a rubber mattress when they're not punching the time clock can always set their sights lower.
4.Disregard taxes
Some people may wait to screw up their retirement. Though the process of not saving can last a lifetime, actual savings may not when it comes time to get a distribution from a tax-deferred account.
Lunt says that people typically think that now that they're retired, they won't have to pay income taxes anymore.
"Often people make incorrect assumptions about what their lives will be like in retirement," says Certified Financial Planner Paula de Vos, president of Synergist Wealth Advisors. "They think they will be in a lower tax bracket, but they may be in a higher one."
Unless your retirement savings have been invested in a Roth IRA or a Roth 401(k), distributions will be taxed as ordinary income. "That could be 25 (percent) to 30 percent less in retirement dollars that someone isn't expecting," says Woods.
Plus, he says, a lot of people feel that income tax rates now are the lowest they'll ever be. A look back in history proves that. It's been higher most of the time. In the 1940s, the top marginal tax rate was 94 percent for individuals with taxable income of more than $200,000 (a lot of money in those days, true). But this just goes to show you that prospective retirees could be looking at paying higher rates than today's top rate of 35 percent.
Though they're completely unavoidable, taxes have to be considered when planning for retirement income. If you go to all the trouble of saving and then end up with less income than you expect, it can definitely ruin your retirement -- or at least put a damper on it.
5.Overestimate portfolio earnings
Compounding interest is indeed magical. A little money plus a lot of time can equal a lot of money. But there's only so much it can do with the variables involved.
Retirement hopefuls who dillydally in their savings efforts may find the time portion of the equation so drastically reduced as to be somewhat ineffectual without lots of money thrown in.
Similarly, young people whose savings start strong and then taper off might find that they could have accumulated much more money had they just saved more consistently over time.
Plus, failing to account for market volatility could have would-be Warren Buffetts wishing they had put most of their money in CDs some days.
People sometimes assume constant growth rates, says CFP Paula de Vos, president of Synergist Wealth Advisors.
"They overestimate the amount of certainty in an uncertain world, and it's something you have to maintain vigilance over," she says.
6.Miscalculate lifetime earnings
Some optimistic people assume that one day their paltry income will catch up with their spending and they'll finally have more than enough money to pay their mortgage off, save for retirement and pay down debts.
"The economy has been pretty nice to us over the past 10 or 20 years, and kids don't know what it was like in tough bear markets," says Dallas-based CFP Chanc Woods, member of the Financial Planning Association.
"The great Depression was so long ago that kids don't know how difficult the job market can be, or how bad the economy could get. Everyone knows that they should have three to six months of expenses saved up, but instead everyone is trying to be cool and buying nice cars and clothes," he says.
That throw-caution-to-the-wind-type thinking lends itself to the work-until-you-die lifestyle. By assuming that things will get better and the worst will never happen, there's a pretty good chance you'll find yourself broke and trying to catch up. Probably well before retirement.
7.Adopt the ostrich-style planning approach
If you've been able to tune out advertising messages and instead accidentally scrimped and saved for your golden years and find yourself doing pretty well, don't worry -- there are still plenty of ways to go wrong.
For instance, without a plan for every aspect of retirement, things can go seriously awry. From long-term care needs to the death of a spouse, any number of factors can derail a plan. The what-ifs could keep a less sanguine person up at night.
"Part of a retirement plan is knowing that we're saving this much every month and we're 35 and at a 5 percent return in 30 years we're going to have all this money," says CFP Ralph Lunt, vice president and chief financial officer at Strategic Capital Advisors. "Well, what if one of us isn't here next month?"
Term life insurance may provide some peace of mind here by providing funds to a surviving spouse or children.
Any catastrophe can potentially change long-term financial plans irreversibly. "Just in the state of Texas, an assisted-living facility, nursing home or home health care runs about $150 to $170 a day just for the care. The average need is just over three years," says Dallas-based CFP Chanc Woods.
Long-term care insurance, though somewhat pricey, can guard against depleting your estate or your family's funds in the event of an ongoing medical issue. According to AARP, about 60 percent of people over age 65 will need some kind of long-term care.
Health care can eat into retirement plans as well. The Employee Benefit Research Institute estimates that the upper range of out-of-pocket medical expenses in retirement for a 65-year-old couple ranges from $235,000 to $376,000. Those figures can potentially almost double for a couple with large prescription needs and only Medicare and Medicare supplements.
The figures are lower if you're willing to roll the dice for a 50 percent chance of having enough money rather than 90 percent, as above. To have a 50-50 chance of having enough money to cover health care costs in retirement, a 65-year-old couple could need between $154,000 and $246,000.
While some people may enjoy the security of buying life and long-term care insurance, others prefer to use another type of time-tested, though historically risky, long-term care insurance -- having lots of kids. It is hoped you raised them all to be doctors or nurses.
8.Remain ignorant about investments
Though actually socking away dollars goes against the never-retire plan, using that money ineffectively can hamstring any retirement efforts.
Ignorance when it comes to your investments can slow down growth. A typical blunder is to own several funds of the same category, for instance, holding two large-cap value funds. Anyone can easily trip up good intentions by disregarding the value of asset allocation and diversification.
"People may underestimate the power and the benefit of a globally diversified portfolio. Because a portfolio has a bunch of different things does not mean that it is a globally diversified portfolio," clarifies CFP Paula de Vos, president of Synergist Wealth Advisors.
It may take professional help. For anyone who doesn't have the time to plan, fee-only financial advisers can map out a route to retirement without the detours that many people inadvertently take. Use Bankrate's database to find a Certified Financial Planner professional near you.
From rolling over 401(k) plans to choosing a place to keep your IRA, the choices can be overwhelming and lead busy people to make hasty, uninformed choices.
"Sometimes when people are looking to roll over qualified plans, they don't necessarily explore all of the benefits or detriments in assessing whether it's the right thing for them to do in a given instance," says de Vos. From tax, legal and financial standpoints, she adds, "They are fairly complicated."
Whether you do it yourself or have someone to help you, planning is essential unless, of course, you want to work until you die.
"Certainly the day you retire isn't the first day you should be thinking about it," says CFP Ralph Lunt, vice president and chief financial officer at Strategic Capital Advisors.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Seven Things No One Tells You About Marriage
That may sound grim. But here's a secret: Sometimes it's the least romantic parts of marriage that have the most to teach you about yourself, your partner, and the nature of love. Read on for some simple truths that will unlock the surprising treasures and pleasures in your imperfect, unstorybook, real-life love.
1. You will look at the person lying next to you and wonder, Is this it? Forever?
When you get married, you think that as long as you pick the right guy -- your soul mate -- you'll be happy together until death do you part. Then you wake up one day and realize that no matter how great he is, he doesn't make you happy every moment of every day. In fact, some days you might wonder why you were in such a hurry to get married in the first place. You think to yourself, "This is so not what I signed up for."
Actually, it is. You just didn't realize it the day you and your guy were cramming wedding cake into each other's faces, clinking champagne glasses, and dancing the Electric Slide. Back then you had no idea that "for better and for worse" doesn't kick in only when life hands you a tragedy. Your relationship mettle is, in fact, most tested on a daily basis, when the utter sameness of day-in/day-out togetherness can sometimes make you want to run for the hills. That's when the disappointment sneaks in, and maybe even a palpable sense of loneliness and grief. It's not him. It's just you, letting go of that sugarcoated fantasy of marriage that danced in your eyes the day you and your beloved posed in all those soft-focus wedding photos. You're learning that marriage isn't a destination; it's a journey filled with equal parts excitement and tedium.
Waking up from a good dream to face the harsh morning daylight may not seem like a reason to celebrate. But trust me, it is. Because once you let go of all the hokey stories of eternal bliss, you find that the reality of marriage is far richer and more rewarding than you ever could have guessed. Hard, yes. Frustrating, yes. But full of its own powerful, quiet enchantments just the same, and that's better than any fairy tale.
2. You'll work harder than you ever imagined.
Early on, when people say, "Marriage takes work," you assume "work" means being patient when he forgets to put down the toilet seat. In your naivete, you think that you will struggle to accommodate some annoying habit, like persistent knuckle cracking or flatulence.
If only it were that easy. Human beings, you may have noticed, are not simple creatures. Your man has mysterious, unplumbed depths -- and from where he sits, you're pretty complicated, too. You have to learn each other the same way that you once learned earth science or world geography. And getting married doesn't mean you're done -- it just means you've advanced to graduate-level studies. That's because every time you think you've mastered the material, he'll change a bit. And so will you. As two people grow and evolve, the real work of marriage is finding a way to relate to and nurture each other in the process.
"It's like losing weight," says Andrea Harden, 45, of Buffalo, NY. "You want it to be a one-time deal. You lost it, now just live. But then you learn it's a lifestyle. That's marriage. The effort is a forever thing." So don't be too hard on yourself -- or him -- on those days when you feel like you're struggling through remedial math.
3. You will sometimes go to bed mad (and maybe even wake up madder).
Whoever decided to tell newlyweds "Never go to bed angry" doesn't know what it's like inside a bedroom where tears and accusations fly as one spouse talks the other into a woozy stupor until night meets the dawn. If this scenario sounds familiar, I've got three words for you: Sleep on it.
You need to calm down. You need to gain perspective. You need to just give it a rest. I've found that an argument of any quality, like a fine wine, needs to breathe. A break in the action will help you figure out whether you're angry, hurt, or both, and then pinpoint the exact source. Maybe the fight that seemed to erupt over the overflowing garbage can is really about feeling underappreciated. Could be you're both stressed out at work and just needed to unload on someone. Taking a break will help you see that, and let go. Or maybe you really do have a legitimate disagreement to work out. Without a time-out, sometimes a perfectly good argument can turn into an endless round of silly back-and-forth, rehashing old and irrelevant transgressions as you get more and more wound up.
Even when you do manage to stay focused and on topic, there are some fights that stubbornly refuse to die by bedtime. And if you stifle your real feelings just to meet some arbitrary deadline, your marriage will surely be the worse for it. "This was a huge lesson for me," says Andrea. "As women we've been trained to make nice. But the whole kiss-and-make-up thing just to keep the peace was eating me up inside. I'd let things build up inside me until I just exploded. Now I wait a while to get hold of myself -- let the emotions settle a bit -- and state my position. Even if that means reopening the fight the next day."
4. Getting your way is usually not as important as finding a way to work together.
I can be a bit of a know-it-all. There, I said it. It's really not my intention to be hurtful or brash with people I love. It's just that a lifetime of experience has taught me that in most areas, at most times, I am right about most things. What shocked me several years into my marriage, though, was the realization that the more "right" I was, the more discontented my husband and I were as a couple. See, oddly enough, throughout his life Genoveso has been under the misguided impression that he's right most of the time (go figure!). So we'd lock horns -- often. That is, until I learned a few things.
Namely, that when it comes to certain disagreements, there is no right or wrong -- there is simply your way of looking at things and your husband's. "I used to be very black-and-white earlier in our marriage," says Lindy Vincent, 38, who lives in Minneapolis. "Now I see that I'm not all right and my husband is not all wrong. There's more gray in life than I thought, and that's taught me patience and the value of compromise."
5. A great marriage doesn't mean no conflict; it simply means a couple keeps trying to get it right.
Maybe you think that because of my newfound wisdom, Genoveso and I never fight anymore. Ha! As important as it is to strike a balance, it's also important to have a big, fat fight every now and then. Because when you fight, you don't just raise your voices; you raise real -- sometimes buried -- issues that challenge you to come to a clearer understanding of you, your man, and your relationship. I wouldn't give up our fights for anything in the world, because I know in the end they won't break us; they'll only make us stronger.
6. You'll realize that you can only change yourself.
Ever seen the '80s sci-fi cult classic "Making Mr. Right?" When the stylish heroine, played by Ann Magnuson, is hired to teach a robot how to act like a human, she seizes the chance to create a perfect guy. A hotshot commercial whiz, she uses her marketing prowess to shape John Malkovich's android character into her personal version of the ideal man -- sensitive, eager to please, and willing to listen.
There is a bit of that makeover fantasy in all of us -- something that makes us believe we can change the person we love, make him just a little bit closer to perfect. We may use support and empathy or shouts and ultimatums, but with dogged conviction we take on this huge responsibility, convinced we're doing the right thing.
Whatever our motives, the effort is exhausting. Transforming a full-grown man -- stripping him of decades-old habits, beliefs, and idiosyncrasies -- is truly an impossible task. And you will come to realize, sooner than later if you're lucky, that it is far easier to change the way you respond to him.
7. As you face your fears and insecurities, you will find out what you're really made of.
There were clues when Genoveso and I were dating, especially with the trust thing. Early on, I was supersuspicious of him. He used to say things like, "I'll call you at 8." Then, just to try to trip me up, he'd call at 8. I knew he was up to something, I just couldn't figure out what. The same kinds of experiences followed after the wedding. Except occasionally he would actually mess up. And I had no sense of scale when it came to rating his offenses; everything was a major violation. Whether he teased me about a new haircut or came home late, I seethed for days and even let thoughts of divorce creep into my head. I figured, if he loved me -- really and truly -- this stuff wouldn't happen.
I'd like to be able to say that this irrational behavior lasted only a few months and I eventually worked it out. Kind of, sort of, is closer to the truth. After years of looking deeply into my soul and talking to good friends and the best sister a girl could ever have, I've come to recognize certain things about myself. Not to get all Dr. Phil about it, but I've had to examine my history with an emotionally distant dad and a strong-willed mom and face up to all the ways, both good and bad, that those relationships have affected how I approach my marriage.
That's the strange beauty of marriage: It's full of hard times and hard lessons that no one can ever prepare you for. But in the end, those are the things that give richness to your life together -- and make your love even deeper and stronger than when it began.
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