Helping Veterans Ride the Wave of Hiring by Uncle Sam

Helping Veterans Ride the Wave of Hiring by Uncle SamHelping Veterans Ride the Wave of Hiring by Uncle SamHelping Veterans Ride the Wave of Hiring by Uncle SamThe July jobs report from the Department of Labor was a little bit of a letdown after strong jobs growth in June. More encouraging to exiting military in particular is a wave of hiring of vets by the feds. However, the federal application process itself remains daunting and off-putting. A certification in federal jobs coaching is available that teaches ways to explain the application process so it is leid so overwhelming. A three-time attendee shares some secrets behind her 70-80% success rate with vets she coaches who are leaving the Coast Guard, as well as tips for other federal jobseekers. The tepid July jobs report released achter monat des jahres 1st was somewhat disappointing compared to a robust June. According to the Department of Labor, just 209,000 jobs were added in July, down from 298,000 in June. Even so, the econo my remains in recovery, and the report noted that Junes 6.1% unemployment was unchanged in July. Meanwhile our nations second largest employer the federal government exhibited steady numbers in July. Uncle Sam continues to employ 2% of American workers. A factor in the shadows of the employment landscape is a boost in hiring of vets by the feds. President Obama has made this a priority. For instance, of the 162,839 new hires the Executive Branch of Government brought in during FY 2013, 50,502 were veterans 31%. In general, unemployment of veterans dropped .9% from 06/2013 to 06/2014 to 5.4%.While vets are being hired by the feds, the application process itself remains confusing, daunting and off-putting. Recognizing this, Kathryn Troutman, a leading federal jobs expert, saw the need back in 2002 to establish a train the trainer program for those who coach people seeking federal jobs. Her Ten Steps to a Federal Job Certification program is one of a kind, and it covers her proven s tep-by-step application process, how to write federal resumes that clearly showcase applicants qualifications, and the ins and outs of the various government hiring programs. To date, it has trained over one thousand job counselors including university counselors of students and graduates, state employment center job advisors, coaches of disabled applicants such as Wounded Warriors, and transition specialists for separating military and their spouses around the world.People are having trouble figuring out the federal application process for themselves, says Troutman. Federal jobs are so desirable, and applying is so complicated, that professionals really do need to get specialized training if theyre going to give advice on getting federal jobs.CJ Johnson, a civilian federal employee, has worked as an Exit Strategist and TAP (Transition Assistance Program) specialist for the US Coast Guard in Alameda, CA since 1996. She has taken Troutmans certification training three times and co-t aught it once. Her reasoning for returning? Laws and federal job applications processes change, and Ive wanted to make sure that Im up-to-date, Johnson explains. And her outstanding success rate shows shes a woman who thoroughly understands what she teaches. Its an amazing 70-80%.Whats her secret? Hard work, long hours and a lot of coffee, she responds, only partly in jest. Beyond that, she attributes the framework of Troutmans step-by-step process and the book Ten Steps to a Federal Job. She also emphasizes her own unique performance-based training, where separating Coast Guard work through assignments for each of the Ten Steps in class on computers. For instance, when Johnson walks them through how she set up an account in the federal jobs site, USAJobs.com, her students set up their own. Her three-day class takes students through modules that cover the entire federal application process.Here are tips for vets and other fed jobseekers from Johnsons approachTip 1 Highlight everyth ing youve done on the job announcement and the USAJobs questionnaire.If the highlighting of both is 80% or more, then youre the perfect candidate, Johnson advises. Her students delete anything not highlighted, and the leftover wording is used as a basis for a resume that proves they can do the job.Tip 2 Attach your resume, rather than using the resume builder in USAJobs.The process of entering your resume into the builder can get very convoluted, Johnson notes. I recommend attaching it unless the job announcement requires use of the builder.Tip 3 In your resume, be sure to include the results and impact of the work you did.Look for numbers, dollars, percentages of increase/decrease, results, and the impact that the result caused.Tip 4 Dont be afraid to blend your personality into your resume.In her classes, Johnson gives each student a personality assessment. The result gives them a stronger sense of their strengths, adds color to resumes, and provides a framework for answering i nterview questions.Tip 5 Prepare 10 good stories to tell during the interview.They should relate to the duties of the targeted job. Stories may come to you as youre writing the resume and adding results and impact. Basically, youre preparing to give the interviewer what they need.Tip 6 Know your worth and learn how to negotiate.In the classes, Johnson spends a lot of time looking at the money angle and the best ways to negotiate salary. It comes down to seeing and showing that your knowledge, skills and abilities match the salary youre asking for. Know what you bring to the table, she urges.Johnson shares that students tell her she makes the process fun. This goes well with Troutmans goal for the Certification program. Applying for a federal job is very, very complicated, says Troutman. We teach how to coach someone on the federal application process so that its not so intimidating.The Certification training is provided through three-day in-person workshops or seven 90-minute webin ars. It is in-demand training that has been given to every military base in the Navy, Army and Coast Guard worldwide. For more information, go to the Federal Career Training Institute.Kathryn Troutman is known as the Federal Resume Guru and is the developer of the Ten Steps to a Federal Job. She teaches hundreds of career counselors each year about her highly acclaimed methods of federal job search and has published dozens of titles, including the recent award-winning Students Federal Career Guide 3rd Edition.

Packaging Yourself for a Smaller Role

Packaging Yourself for a Smaller RolePackaging Yourself for a Smaller RoleWhat steps do you need to take to convince employers youre ready to think smaller?Convincing an employer youll savor a new role with a lower profile isnt just a matter of matching qualifications it also requires some serious self-branding as a competitive asset.Randy Hain, managing partner at Bell Oaks Executive Search in Atlanta, suggests several ways to find happiness in a reduced role1. Be a mentor. Market yourself as someone who can help mentor the next generation of leaders from inside the company. Ive seen a lot of companies almost freaking out that they dont have any mentors left in their companies, Hain said. This kind of come in, develop the next generation of leader and then bow out (approach) is actually something that works. 2. Be a maven. Hain said that packaging yourself as a thought leader in a particular area of expertise is also a good way to find your way into work, using social-networking ser vices like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge. If I can get a candidate to utilize LinkedIn, or even Facebook, and start to talk a lot about their background, and position themselves as a knowledge leader in a certain area, they make themselves more attractive. Its critical, though, to project enthusiasm - and not your age. A lot of candidates in that age bracket - their resumes and LinkedIn profiles are rather stodgy. I coach people on how to build a compelling LinkedIn profile and resume.3. Be a contractor. Another gambit is to approach companies as a consultant. I always tell folks in this age bracket to consider going in and pitching themselves in consulting or maybe contract roles Hey look, Im going to come in and take care of this project for you, for six months, nine months, a year, then lets evaluate how Ive done. For a lot of people, thats actually very attractive. Theyre not necessarily looking for the grind of being part of the team they want to come in, fix a proj ect and move on.What do you want? What do you need? In preparing for the search, Hain said, you should do an honest self-inventory. Id evaluate what I really want out of the next five to 10 years of my career. Is it ego gratification, or do I want to make enough money to get to retirement? Thats a tough evaluation for people whove been flying high. Then you need to evaluate what you have to offer. Do I have a Rolodex (of professional contacts)? Do I have a good reputation? Do I have a strong track record?The contact list - the Rolodex - is critical for re-careering. Who can I call whos going to take my call, make introductions for me, or hire me? You need to really understand that. And once you know all of that, then Id gravitate toward identifying specific companies to approach.Finally, the key to success is flexibility, Hain said. Be flexible early on in the job search, and get into the proper psychology. If (candidates) will open themselves up to contributing, getting a fair in come, and really being convincing to the employer that theyre genuinely interested in anything thats going to allow them to support their family and make a contribution, it goes a long way toward success.That may seem like a no-brainer - but I think that people in this age bracket really struggle with the psychology of it.

Tuning Up a Career in Music Making

Tuning Up a Career in Music MakingTuning Up a Career in Music MakingAfter a reorganization that eliminated his job, Chris Anderson wondered if he could turn his hobby of guitar playing into his work.A lifelong musician, Chris Anderson had always kept his personal interests and his professional life separate, until a layoff gave 49-year-old Anderson the opportunity to combine his passion for music and the guitar with his extensive management skills.In October 2008, Anderson was the national director of shopper absatzwirtschaft for Pepsi Co. and based in Danbury, Conn. In a reorganization, Andersons job was eliminated and he found himself without work just a few short weeks before the hectic holiday season.A sour noteMyself, my boss and my colleagues were all let go effective November 1, Anderson said. With the holidays approaching and many organizations reluctant to hire, he felt he should take time to reconnect with family friends and hobbies, including his guitar playing.I did updat e my resume and submit it to various online job-aggregation sites, but it was rough, Anderson said, I took a lot of time over Thanksgiving and Christmas to get my thoughts together and decide how I was going to attack the job market after the new year.Andersons decided to resist the urge to jump at the first fleck he could find instead, he said, he thought long and hard about the type of work he wanted to do and how he could integrate aspects of his interests with that work.Striking a chordThe first thing I did was assess my skill set and not look to find the same kind of job I had before, he said. My thought process was, What can I take from my life experiences and my previous jobs? How can I apply those skills and interests to other industries? His second step was to reach out to his community. Anderson and others whod recently become unemployed formed a social network of people that would meet each week.Quite a few people in my area were affected, and wed have informal meetings t o provide not just networking and swap leads and connections, but to support each other, Anderson said. The job search was infinitely more difficult than any project Anderson had ever tackled at work, he said, and he quickly amassed a variety of different resumes and deckblatt letters for a wide variety of marketing and management jobs.He also continued reaching out to recruiters and networking within his personal circles, as well as joining MktgLadder. Anderson used Ladders resume-critique service and found that the advice he read on the site was applicable to other online job sites he frequented. He said he was able to extrapolate many of the lessons learned from Ladders and use them to differentiate himself from other job candidates both on his resume, cover letter and during interviews.You know that so many other people are affected by job losses, and theyre also out searching, Anderson said. Its going to be really difficult for your name to pop unless you can elevate yourself a bove the rest of the pack.A smash hitAndersons diligence paid off when he landed his dream job, global product manager for Gibson Guitars, based in Nashville, Tenn. Anderson said it was a position well worth waiting for and that it will allow him to incorporate his management and marketing skills with his passion for music and his lifelong hobby.This is an opportunity to get paid for something I love, and Im so glad I had the patience to really think my priorities through before I got into the search, he said. I had the patience to wait and make sure I was getting the right job for me, not just taking the first thing that comes along.Though Gibson Guitars went through a downsizing of its own in late 2008, Anderson said he feels the companys long-term prospects are still good. From his perspective, with more guitarists and hobbyists spending time at home, demand will remain steady. Anderson also said that Gibson is finding new business opportunities in emerging markets like China.In April 2009, Gibson introduced its Raw Power series, which offers stripped-down versions of the companys most popular guitar models. The series comes at a great time for the company and is aimed at boosting sales in a slumping economy.Anderson will relocate to Nashville to begin his new position in April.I know I can work hard, make a good impression and work my way up, he said. I am thrilled but also aware that in this economy, I am one of the lucky ones.

8 Things You Should Never Say In A Meeting

8 Things You Should Never Say In A Meeting8 Things You Should Never Say In A Meeting When the patience is low and the stress is high, when you want to smile but you also just want to cry, you may let unprofessional words and phrases slip out. Weve all been there. Work can be challenging. And juggling coworkers and bosses can sometimes seem like climbing up a downward-moving escalator.Its in these moments, that you must keep your cool. Whether you need a woo-sah moment or need to head to the onsite gym to sweat it out, try your hardest to maintain a calm, collected disposition at work.I recently read Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job by Lynn Taylor and it opened my eyes to the words and behaviors that are downright dangerous to a career. It inspired me to come up with the 8 things to never say in a meeting.Banish these phrases before it costs you your brand.Sure, a certain someone is tossing this word arou nd left and right, but dontdrop this during your next staff meeting.Having good language skills is crucial elend only to effective communication and trust but your career, too, writes Taylor. So its worthwhile to find original words and ways to be authentic and professional with your team and managers.As a CEO or senior manager, you wield tremendous influence to seize the opportunities presented here - to create an exuberant workforce and increase profitability, writes Taylor. Dont undermine your success or your influence by poor diction. For the record, yes conversate is a word , but most people use it incorrectly. When in doubt, stick with converse or speak with. Youll avoid any odd looks of confusion.Youre no longer in college and this isnt fraternity row. Instead of addressing your male colleagues as bro consider simply usingfirst names. Youll still be likable and cool, we promise.Business is based on mutually beneficial relationships and trust . However, using the phrase trust me either in negotiations or when taking on a difficult project can make you sound the opposite of trusted. In fact, those who use this phrase are often not to be trusted to deliver on their promise.Trust is the cornerstone of any sustainable business relationship , so its worthwhile to find original words and ways to be authentic and professional with your team and managers, insists Taylor.Beware of snap judgments or potentially offensive remarks like this one. Whether directed at a person or an idea brainstormed in a meeting, thats crazy reeks of discrimination and makes you look extra judgy. According to Taylor, using phrases like thats crazy, how stupid, and thats dumb, can show your true weaknesses . Emotional intelligence in the workplace seems like a buzz termbut your ability to regulate your own emotions for better interpersonal relations can be the difference of having a great career versus a good one, she says.Not having emotional intelligence is aya to slow your professional growth . The workplace is a fabric of people who can only move their projects forward with the support of others. In a macro sense, a team with strong emotional intelligence can mean millions of dollars added to the bottom line.Words like synergy and wheelhouse are completely overused lingo . While they are fine to use occasionally, steer clear of overused words. Dropping these in meetings can make you look as though you are trying too hard and not truly genuine. Stick to your lexicon and ditch the buzzwords.While many insist that this is not a real word, it is referenced as a nonstandard word in major dictionaries. Nevertheless, the double negative (ir- and -less) just sounds bad. Stay away from words that are made-up vernacular that may have slipped into common conversation but dont really belong. Instead, just say regardless, in spite of, nevertheless, or even notwithstanding. Rule of thumb if youre not koranvers about the validity of a word, dont use it .Last but not least, this is a phrase you should never, ever utter at work unless youd like to be unemployed. Sure, it can be dreadful to be assigned a task that isnt technically in your wheelhouse, however, answering your manager or the team with the response thats not my job is not asmart move.This phrase and its cousins- Im too busy and Cant someone else do it- are surefire ways for your performance review to go a little something like this While youve excelled at your individual work, Im really worried that youre not a team player and that you are unwilling to collaborate on projects for the good of the team and the company. Given this, Im not sure whether XYZ company is the place for you.Avoid that conversation entirely by simply making note of the assignment, then having a chat with your manager one-on-one to discuss your workload and the upcoming project.If you like your job and want to advance, but feel like youre sometimes your own worst enemy, take a step back, advis es Taylor. Theres only one thing that can sabotage anyone from achieving greatness and conversely catapult anyone to the top. Ourselves.

What the In-Crowd Wont Tell You About Resume Colors

What the In-Crowd Wont Tell You About Resume Colors What the In-Crowd Wont Tell You About Resume Colors Portfolio Special Cases Certain careers need a specific and one of a kind kind of portfolio resume. The way the Service Works My Perfect Resume is totally self-directed, or so the degree of period it requires to go through the entire process will change from person to individual. Taking the chance to work on yur continue is critical. Specifically, resume writing is among the most searched topics online. Resume Colors Features Choose a single portfolio get going on showcasing your very best work Your resume ought to be focused, concise and emphasize achievements and techniques that fit the job that youre applying for. A modeling portfolio should contain a variety of must that show yourself abilities and versatility for a model. Bulk of competent resumes utilize color. There are a lot of online choices for creating design-worthy resumes. There are hundreds and hundreds of various styles of borders, but just a few which are acceptable for professional documents like cover letters, resumes and thank you letters. When it has to do with your resume, you truly cant be too perfect. Resume Colors - Dead or Alive? Also, there are a few design and formatting techniques you may use to customize the template to target a specific job. Word Resume themes are filled with the entire format structure and the bulk of the content making method for a robust resume within an issue of only a few minutes. It is possible to edit the color and the content free of trouble. Youre in a position to edit the color as well as the content free of trouble. If you are searching for work, you might be brief on cash. One other great go with for minimalists which could be trying to discover a new job. Maybe youre searching for a new job, or simply going after that promo at work. Maybe youre seeking a new job, or simply going after that promo at work. Key Pieces of Resu me Colors Color in resume also can help to highlight important sections, or so the hiring managers wont need to waste added time. Many events the perfect job applicant is screened out as a result of bad job application. If you want receive a great work, you call for a superior job application. If you would like to be given a wonderful work, you need an excellent job application. Employers dont wish to squint. If you want to find a new job, you should have a skilled and nicely written resume to submit. If you would like to locate a new job, you should have a skilled and nicely written resume to submit. If you want to locate a new job, you should have a skilled and well-written resume to submit. From the totally free function templates its possible to secure more helpful details. When its practical to modify a template easily, you just may be capable of making a great a person yourself. Its also vital to remember that templates can be reorganized. Our creative web template s allow you to definitely stick out from the audience. The power of the color corresponds to the high degree of the selected property for the specific point. It can be an avenue to express that kind of confidence. There are several simple dos and donts that it is possible to implement in the resume process that could earn a big difference in the accomplishment of your resume leading to interviews. When youd like to get an extremely good continue aid, youre in a position to just follow our enterprise lead. Youre clearly intelligent and seem to get a superior work history. A portfolio resume is a sort of creative yourself that showcases examples of your work together with the usual resume information regarding your work experience. There are professional resume templates targeted at creative professions which save candidates plenty of time. The internet site will request that you select a package deal as a means to download or printing your new job application. Some resume t hemes are also only easily available for people who have subscribed towards the site. Your portfolio should also incorporate a profile with details about where you are, writing, and what exactly youre inclined to do as a model. Resume paper selection is a significant part of the aesthetics of a completed resume. A complete selection for candidates with lots of of encounter who would like to truly have an outstanding one-page continue template. The template can help you to take note of the items which are critical to become filled in the cv to acquire a specific type of job. Our templates make it simple to create your very own expert tail without having excuse building up with the design all on your own.

Which Jobs Pay the Most

Which Jobs Pay the fruchtwein Search Which Jobs Pay the fruchtwein? Share this articleTwitterLinkedinFacebookemailA List of the Most Lucrative Professions of the YearWhich Jobs Pay the Most? The good news is these jobs pay a whole lot of money. Unfortunately, you have to spend a lot of money on schooling and specialized education to nab one of those huge paychecks. Careercast is back with itsannual list of highest paying jobs. Healthcare occupations rule the day for the most part, taking a whopping seven spots on the list. But even the ones that arent in the medical industry require many years of higher education and years of training. Which often means there is substantial debt that goes along with these big time checks. The list welches formed using the Jobs Rated report along with information culled from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. 9. Drilling Engineer JobOil and Gas Drilling Engineer zentralwert salary$84,059 These are the people who design oil wells and come up with ways to extract oil and gas from them. It involves drilling down beneath the surface of the Earth to get the intended resource out from both new and existing wells. A bachelors degree is almost always needed for this job, which consists of work in laboratories and going out to drill sites. 8. Attorney JobAttorney zentralwert salary$110,058 This one is a little vague since there are a lot of different types of attorneys, but generally speaking they make good money. Whether youre a criminal defense attorney, prosecutor, real estate lawyer, etc., you need a bachelors degree along with a law degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. Attorneys must also pass the bar exam in whichever states they wish to practice. 7. Pharmacist JobPharmacist zentralwert salary$121,443 Pharmacists the real kind not the Walter White variety are the ones who make and dispense prescription medications as prescribed by doctors. Often working in hospitals or independent pharmacies located in drug stores, pharmacists make the medication, talk with people about side effects and allergies, and dispense meds to the customers. A 4-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy degree is required, and pharmacists must also be licensed which entails passing at least two exams. 6. Orthodontist JobOrthodontist zentralwert salary$128,589 Although theyre every kids worst nightmare, orthodontists bring home quite a hefty paycheck for doing specialized work. When something goes really wrong with your teeth, orthodontists examine and treat you for dental anomalies. They also specialize in devising and implementing braces and other methods of realignment for teeth, which helps improve prototyp function and appearance.This job generally requires four years of college, four years of dental school, and several years of post-graduate orthodontics training, as well as various licensing exams.5. Dentist JobDentist zentralwert salary$150,815 Even though few people like going to the dentist, the y enjoy a substantial salary. Like orthodontists, dentists also make their living working with teeth. But unlike the specialists, dentists treat and diagnose general problems with teeth and gums, doing things like filling cavities, performing routine cleanings, and other procedures such as root canals. Four years of undergraduate studies, four years of dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, and state licensure must all be obtained. 4. Podiatrist JobPodiatrist Median salary$179,923 Who knew feet were so profitable? Podiatrists aka foot doctors are doctors that deal with issues affecting peoples lower extremities. They diagnose and treat people with malformations and other problems involving their feet, ankles, and lower legs. In addition to four years of college, they must also earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, complete a 3-year residency requirement, and obtain licensure that varies by state.3. Physician JobPhysician Median salary$184,118 Gen eral practitioner physicians make enough to afford way more than an apple a day. These physicians, known as generalists, treat a general client base to ensure proper injury care, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. They also prescribe and administer medications, perform vaccinations, and counsel people on general health and hygiene. But with the high salary comes high demand, especially in terms of education. Almost all physicians complete at least four years of college, four years of medical school, and between three and eight years of internships and residencies. 2. Psychiatrist JobPsychiatrist Median salary$201,799 Some people need to lay down on the couch when they realize just how much psychiatrists make. Psychiatrists study and observe patients to determine if they have behavioral, mental, or emotional disorders. Then they work to diagnose said complications, determine a course of treatment, and prescribe medication when necessary. While some psychiatrists only have a masters degree, most need some kind of doctoral degree or specialty degree in psychology. 1. Surgeon JobSurgeon Median salary$346,802 The highest qualified people doing something only a handful of others can do, get the highest pay. Surgeons need to remove tumors, correct deformities, and improve patient function by operating on people. Obviously, those charged with opening up the human body with death as an ever present consequence require more than a decade of schooling, which is why the payout is so high. Want More Money? Negotiate Your Salary Whether youre just starting out or youre going for one of these jobs on the list, its imperative to negotiate your salary.Salary.comcan help you get paid fairly what you do. The first thing you should do is research, so youre able to come to the table armed with the knowledge of what your job is worth. Use our freeSalary Wizardbelow to find out whats a fair salary for your position. You can enter your location, education leve l, years of experience and more to find out an appropriate salary sortiment before you negotiate. Good luck. How much are you worth? Personal Salary Report Search US Salaries Search Canadian Salaries Browse Job Openings Related Salary.com Content The 7 Career Goals You Need to Succeed How Do I Convert Salary to Hourly to Calculate a Part-Time Rate? 9 Things You Should Never Say When Asking for a Raise From our trusted Partners From our trusted Partners Home Articles Career Development Career Profiles Which Jobs Pay the Most?Which Jobs Pay the Most Search Which Jobs Pay the Most? Share this articleTwitterLinkedinFacebookemailA List of the Most Lucrative Professions of the YearWhich Jobs Pay the Most? The good news is these jobs pay a whole lot of money. Unfortunately, you have to spend a lot of money on schooling and specialized education to nab one of those huge paychecks. Careercast is back with itsannual list of highest paying jobs. Healthc are occupations rule the day for the most part, taking a whopping seven spots on the list. But even the ones that arent in the medical industry require many years of higher education and years of training. Which often means there is substantial debt that goes along with these big time checks. The list welches formed using the Jobs Rated report along with information culled from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. 9. Drilling Engineer JobOil and Gas Drilling Engineer Median salary$84,059 These are the people who design oil wells and come up with ways to extract oil and gas from them. It involves drilling down beneath the surface of the Earth to get the intended resource out from both new and existing wells. A bachelors degree is almost always needed for this job, which consists of work in laboratories and going out to drill sites. 8. Attorney JobAttorney Median salary$110,058 This one is a little vague since there are a lot of different types of attorneys, but generally speaking th ey make good money. Whether youre a criminal defense attorney, prosecutor, real estate lawyer, etc., you need a bachelors degree along with a law degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. Attorneys must also pass the bar exam in whichever states they wish to practice. 7. Pharmacist JobPharmacist Median salary$121,443 Pharmacists the real kind not the Walter White variety are the ones who make and dispense prescription medications as prescribed by doctors. Often working in hospitals or independent pharmacies located in drug stores, pharmacists make the medication, talk with people about side effects and allergies, and dispense meds to the customers. A 4-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy degree is required, and pharmacists must also be licensed which entails passing at least two exams. 6. Orthodontist JobOrthodontist Median salary$128,589 Although theyre every kids worst nightmare, orthodontists bring home quite a hefty paycheck for doing specialized work. W hen something goes really wrong with your teeth, orthodontists examine and treat you for dental anomalies. They also specialize in devising and implementing braces and other methods of realignment for teeth, which helps improve prototyp function and appearance.This job generally requires four years of college, four years of dental school, and several years of post-graduate orthodontics training, as well as various licensing exams.5. Dentist JobDentist Median salary$150,815 Even though few people like going to the dentist, they enjoy a substantial salary. Like orthodontists, dentists also make their living working with teeth. But unlike the specialists, dentists treat and diagnose general problems with teeth and gums, doing things like filling cavities, performing routine cleanings, and other procedures such as root canals. Four years of undergraduate studies, four years of dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, and state licensure must all be obtained. 4. Podiatrist JobPodiatrist Median salary$179,923 Who knew feet were so profitable? Podiatrists aka foot doctors are doctors that deal with issues affecting peoples lower extremities. They diagnose and treat people with malformations and other problems involving their feet, ankles, and lower legs. In addition to four years of college, they must also earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, complete a 3-year residency requirement, and obtain licensure that varies by state.3. Physician JobPhysician Median salary$184,118 General practitioner physicians make enough to afford way more than an apple a day. These physicians, known as generalists, treat a general client base to ensure proper injury care, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. They also prescribe and administer medications, perform vaccinations, and counsel people on general health and hygiene. But with the high salary comes high demand, especially in terms of education. Almost all physicians complete at least four years of college, four years of medical school, and between three and eight years of internships and residencies. 2. Psychiatrist JobPsychiatrist Median salary$201,799 Some people need to lay down on the couch when they realize just how much psychiatrists make. Psychiatrists study and observe patients to determine if they have behavioral, mental, or emotional disorders. Then they work to diagnose said complications, determine a course of treatment, and prescribe medication when necessary. While some psychiatrists only have a masters degree, most need some kind of doctoral degree or specialty degree in psychology. 1. Surgeon JobSurgeon Median salary$346,802 The highest qualified people doing something only a handful of others can do, get the highest pay. Surgeons need to remove tumors, correct deformities, and improve patient function by operating on people. Obviously, those charged with opening up the human body with death as an ever present consequence require more th an a decade of schooling, which is why the payout is so high. Want More Money? Negotiate Your Salary Whether youre just starting out or youre going for one of these jobs on the list, its imperative to negotiate your salary.Salary.comcan help you get paid fairly what you do. The first thing you should do is research, so youre able to come to the table armed with the knowledge of what your job is worth. Use our freeSalary Wizardbelow to find out whats a fair salary for your position. You can enter your location, education level, years of experience and more to find out an appropriate salary sortiment before you negotiate. Good luck. How much are you worth? Personal Salary Report Search US Salaries Search Canadian Salaries Browse Job Openings Related Salary.com Content The 7 Career Goals You Need to Succeed How Do I Convert Salary to Hourly to Calculate a Part-Time Rate? 9 Things You Should Never Say When Asking for a Raise From our trusted Partners From our trus ted Partners Home Articles Career Development Career Profiles Which Jobs Pay the Most?Which Jobs Pay the Most Search Which Jobs Pay the Most? Share this articleTwitterLinkedinFacebookemailA List of the Most Lucrative Professions of the YearWhich Jobs Pay the Most? The good news is these jobs pay a whole lot of money. Unfortunately, you have to spend a lot of money on schooling and specialized education to nab one of those huge paychecks. Careercast is back with itsannual list of highest paying jobs. Healthcare occupations rule the day for the most part, taking a whopping seven spots on the list. But even the ones that arent in the medical industry require many years of higher education and years of training. Which often means there is substantial debt that goes along with these big time checks. The list welches formed using the Jobs Rated report along with information culled from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. 9. Drilling Engineer JobOil and Gas Drilling Engi neer Median salary$84,059 These are the people who design oil wells and come up with ways to extract oil and gas from them. It involves drilling down beneath the surface of the Earth to get the intended resource out from both new and existing wells. A bachelors degree is almost always needed for this job, which consists of work in laboratories and going out to drill sites. 8. Attorney JobAttorney Median salary$110,058 This one is a little vague since there are a lot of different types of attorneys, but generally speaking they make good money. Whether youre a criminal defense attorney, prosecutor, real estate lawyer, etc., you need a bachelors degree along with a law degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. Attorneys must also pass the bar exam in whichever states they wish to practice. 7. Pharmacist JobPharmacist Median salary$121,443 Pharmacists the real kind not the Walter White variety are the ones who make and dispense prescription medications as prescrib ed by doctors. Often working in hospitals or independent pharmacies located in drug stores, pharmacists make the medication, talk with people about side effects and allergies, and dispense meds to the customers. A 4-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy degree is required, and pharmacists must also be licensed which entails passing at least two exams. 6. Orthodontist JobOrthodontist Median salary$128,589 Although theyre every kids worst nightmare, orthodontists bring home quite a hefty paycheck for doing specialized work. When something goes really wrong with your teeth, orthodontists examine and treat you for dental anomalies. They also specialize in devising and implementing braces and other methods of realignment for teeth, which helps improve normal function and appearance.This job generally requires four years of college, four years of dental school, and several years of post-graduate orthodontics training, as well as various licensing exams.5. Dentist JobDentist Median salar y$150,815 Even though few people like going to the dentist, they enjoy a substantial salary. Like orthodontists, dentists also make their living working with teeth. But unlike the specialists, dentists treat and diagnose general problems with teeth and gums, doing things like filling cavities, performing routine cleanings, and other procedures such as root canals. Four years of undergraduate studies, four years of dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, and state licensure must all be obtained. 4. Podiatrist JobPodiatrist Median salary$179,923 Who knew feet were so profitable? Podiatrists aka foot doctors are doctors that deal with issues affecting peoples lower extremities. They diagnose and treat people with malformations and other problems involving their feet, ankles, and lower legs. In addition to four years of college, they must also earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, complete a 3-year residency requirement, and obtain licensure that vari es by state.3. Physician JobPhysician Median salary$184,118 General practitioner physicians make enough to afford way more than an apple a day. These physicians, known as generalists, treat a general client base to ensure proper injury care, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. They also prescribe and administer medications, perform vaccinations, and counsel people on general health and hygiene. But with the high salary comes high demand, especially in terms of education. Almost all physicians complete at least four years of college, four years of medical school, and between three and eight years of internships and residencies. 2. Psychiatrist JobPsychiatrist Median salary$201,799 Some people need to lay down on the couch when they realize just how much psychiatrists make. Psychiatrists study and observe patients to determine if they have behavioral, mental, or emotional disorders. Then they work to diagnose said complications, determine a course of treatment, an d prescribe medication when necessary. While some psychiatrists only have a masters degree, most need some kind of doctoral degree or specialty degree in psychology. 1. Surgeon JobSurgeon Median salary$346,802 The highest qualified people doing something only a handful of others can do, get the highest pay. Surgeons need to remove tumors, correct deformities, and improve patient function by operating on people. Obviously, those charged with opening up the human body with death as an ever present consequence require more than a decade of schooling, which is why the payout is so high. Want More Money? Negotiate Your Salary Whether youre just starting out or youre going for one of these jobs on the list, its imperative to negotiate your salary.Salary.comcan help you get paid fairly what you do. The first thing you should do is research, so youre able to come to the table armed with the knowledge of what your job is worth. Use our freeSalary Wizardbelow to find out whats a fair salary for your position. You can enter your location, education level, years of experience and more to find out an appropriate salary range before you negotiate. Good luck. How much are you worth? Personal Salary Report Search US Salaries Search Canadian Salaries Browse Job Openings Related Salary.com Content The 7 Career Goals You Need to Succeed How Do I Convert Salary to Hourly to Calculate a Part-Time Rate? 9 Things You Should Never Say When Asking for a Raise From our trusted Partners From our trusted Partners Home Articles Career Development Career Profiles Which Jobs Pay the Most?Which Jobs Pay the Most Search Which Jobs Pay the Most? Share this articleTwitterLinkedinFacebookemailA List of the Most Lucrative Professions of the YearWhich Jobs Pay the Most? The good news is these jobs pay a whole lot of money. Unfortunately, you have to spend a lot of money on schooling and specialized education to nab one of those huge paychecks. Careercast is back with itsannual list of highest paying jobs. Healthcare occupations rule the day for the most part, taking a whopping seven spots on the list. But even the ones that arent in the medical industry require many years of higher education and years of training. Which often means there is substantial debt that goes along with these big time checks. The list was formed using the Jobs Rated report along with information culled from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. 9. Drilling Engineer JobOil and Gas Drilling Engineer Median salary$84,059 These are the people who design oil wells and come up with ways to extract oil and gas from them. It involves drilling down beneath the surface of the Earth to get the intended resource out from both new and existing wells. A bachelors degree is almost always needed for this job, which consists of work in laboratories and going out to drill sites. 8. Attorney JobAttorney Median salary$110,058 This one is a little vague since there are a lot of different types of attorneys, but generally speaking they make good money. Whether youre a criminal defense attorney, prosecutor, real estate lawyer, etc., you need a bachelors degree along with a law degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. Attorneys must also pass the bar exam in whichever states they wish to practice. 7. Pharmacist JobPharmacist Median salary$121,443 Pharmacists the real kind not the Walter White variety are the ones who make and dispense prescription medications as prescribed by doctors. Often working in hospitals or independent pharmacies located in drug stores, pharmacists make the medication, talk with people about side effects and allergies, and dispense meds to the customers. A 4-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy degree is required, and pharmacists must also be licensed which entails passing at least two exams. 6. Orthodontist JobOrthodontist Median salary$128,589 Although theyre every kids worst nightmare, orthodontists bring home quite a hefty paycheck for doing specialized work. When something goes really wrong with your teeth, orthodontists examine and treat you for dental anomalies. They also specialize in devising and implementing braces and other methods of realignment for teeth, which helps improve normal function and appearance.This job generally requires four years of college, four years of dental school, and several years of post-graduate orthodontics training, as well as various licensing exams.5. Dentist JobDentist Median salary$150,815 Even though few people like going to the dentist, they enjoy a substantial salary. Like orthodontists, dentists also make their living working with teeth. But unlike the specialists, dentists treat and diagnose general problems with teeth and gums, doing things like filling cavities, performing routine cleanings, and other procedures such as root canals. Four years of undergraduate studies, four years of dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, and state licensure must all be obtained. 4. Podiatrist JobPodiatrist Median salary$179,923 Who knew feet were so profitable? Podiatrists aka foot doctors are doctors that deal with issues affecting peoples lower extremities. They diagnose and treat people with malformations and other problems involving their feet, ankles, and lower legs. In addition to four years of college, they must also earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, complete a 3-year residency requirement, and obtain licensure that varies by state.3. Physician JobPhysician Median salary$184,118 General practitioner physicians make enough to afford way more than an apple a day. These physicians, known as generalists, treat a general client base to ensure proper injury care, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. They also prescribe and administer medications, perform vaccinations, and counsel people on general health and hygiene. But with the high salary comes high demand, especially in terms of education. Almost all physicians complete at least four years of college, four years of medical school, and between three and eight years of internships and residencies. 2. Psychiatrist JobPsychiatrist Median salary$201,799 Some people need to lay down on the couch when they realize just how much psychiatrists make. Psychiatrists study and observe patients to determine if they have behavioral, mental, or emotional disorders. Then they work to diagnose said complications, determine a course of treatment, and prescribe medication when necessary. While some psychiatrists only have a masters degree, most need some kind of doctoral degree or specialty degree in psychology. 1. Surgeon JobSurgeon Median salary$346,802 The highest qualified people doing something only a handful of others can do, get the highest pay. Surgeons need to remove tumors, correct deformities, and improve patient function by operating on people. Obviously, those charged with opening up the human body with death as an ever present consequence require more than a decade of schooling, which is why the payout is so high. Want More Money? Negotiate Your Salary Whether youre just starting out or youre going for one of these jobs on the list, its imperative to negotiate your salary.Salary.comcan help you get paid fairly what you do. The first thing you should do is research, so youre able to come to the table armed with the knowledge of what your job is worth. Use our freeSalary Wizardbelow to find out whats a fair salary for your position. You can enter your location, education level, years of experience and more to find out an appropriate salary range before you negotiate. Good luck. How much are you worth? Personal Salary Report Search US Salaries Search Canadian Salaries Browse Job Openings Related Salary.com Content The 7 Career Goals You Need to Succeed How Do I Convert Salary to Hourly to Calculate a Part-Time Rate? 9 Things You Should Never Say When Asking for a Raise From our trusted Partners From our trusted Partners Home Articles Career Development Career Profiles Which Jobs Pay the Most?Which Jobs Pay the Most Search Which Jobs Pay the Most? Share this articleTwitterLinkedinFacebookemailA List of the Most Lucrative Professions of the YearWhich Jobs Pay the Most? The good news is these jobs pay a whole lot of money. Unfortunately, you have to spend a lot of money on schooling and specialized education to nab one of those huge paychecks. Careercast is back with itsannual list of highest paying jobs. Healthcare occupations rule the day for the most part, taking a whopping seven spots on the list. But even the ones that arent in the medical industry require many years of higher education and years of training. Which often means there is substantial debt that goes along with these big time checks. The list was formed using the Jobs Rated report along with information culled from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. 9. Dr illing Engineer JobOil and Gas Drilling Engineer Median salary$84,059 These are the people who design oil wells and come up with ways to extract oil and gas from them. It involves drilling down beneath the surface of the Earth to get the intended resource out from both new and existing wells. A bachelors degree is almost always needed for this job, which consists of work in laboratories and going out to drill sites. 8. Attorney JobAttorney Median salary$110,058 This one is a little vague since there are a lot of different types of attorneys, but generally speaking they make good money. Whether youre a criminal defense attorney, prosecutor, real estate lawyer, etc., you need a bachelors degree along with a law degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. Attorneys must also pass the bar exam in whichever states they wish to practice. 7. Pharmacist JobPharmacist Median salary$121,443 Pharmacists the real kind not the Walter White variety are the ones who make and dispense prescription medications as prescribed by doctors. Often working in hospitals or independent pharmacies located in drug stores, pharmacists make the medication, talk with people about side effects and allergies, and dispense meds to the customers. A 4-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy degree is required, and pharmacists must also be licensed which entails passing at least two exams. 6. Orthodontist JobOrthodontist Median salary$128,589 Although theyre every kids worst nightmare, orthodontists bring home quite a hefty paycheck for doing specialized work. When something goes really wrong with your teeth, orthodontists examine and treat you for dental anomalies. They also specialize in devising and implementing braces and other methods of realignment for teeth, which helps improve normal function and appearance.This job generally requires four years of college, four years of dental school, and several years of post-graduate orthodontics training, as well as various licen sing exams.5. Dentist JobDentist Median salary$150,815 Even though few people like going to the dentist, they enjoy a substantial salary. Like orthodontists, dentists also make their living working with teeth. But unlike the specialists, dentists treat and diagnose general problems with teeth and gums, doing things like filling cavities, performing routine cleanings, and other procedures such as root canals. Four years of undergraduate studies, four years of dental school to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, and state licensure must all be obtained. 4. Podiatrist JobPodiatrist Median salary$179,923 Who knew feet were so profitable? Podiatrists aka foot doctors are doctors that deal with issues affecting peoples lower extremities. They diagnose and treat people with malformations and other problems involving their feet, ankles, and lower legs. In addition to four years of college, they must also earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, complete a 3-year residenc y requirement, and obtain licensure that varies by state.3. Physician JobPhysician Median salary$184,118 General practitioner physicians make enough to afford way more than an apple a day. These physicians, known as generalists, treat a general client base to ensure proper injury care, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. They also prescribe and administer medications, perform vaccinations, and counsel people on general health and hygiene. But with the high salary comes high demand, especially in terms of education. Almost all physicians complete at least four years of college, four years of medical school, and between three and eight years of internships and residencies. 2. Psychiatrist JobPsychiatrist Median salary$201,799 Some people need to lay down on the couch when they realize just how much psychiatrists make. Psychiatrists study and observe patients to determine if they have behavioral, mental, or emotional disorders. Then they work to diagnose said compl ications, determine a course of treatment, and prescribe medication when necessary. While some psychiatrists only have a masters degree, most need some kind of doctoral degree or specialty degree in psychology. 1. Surgeon JobSurgeon Median salary$346,802 The highest qualified people doing something only a handful of others can do, get the highest pay. Surgeons need to remove tumors, correct deformities, and improve patient function by operating on people. Obviously, those charged with opening up the human body with death as an ever present consequence require more than a decade of schooling, which is why the payout is so high. Want More Money? Negotiate Your Salary Whether youre just starting out or youre going for one of these jobs on the list, its imperative to negotiate your salary.Salary.comcan help you get paid fairly what you do. The first thing you should do is research, so youre able to come to the table armed with the knowledge of what your job is worth. Use our freeSalar y Wizardbelow to find out whats a fair salary for your position. You can enter your location, education level, years of experience and more to find out an appropriate salary range before you negotiate. Good luck. How much are you worth? Personal Salary Report Search US Salaries Search Canadian Salaries Browse Job Openings Related Salary.com Content The 7 Career Goals You Need to Succeed How Do I Convert Salary to Hourly to Calculate a Part-Time Rate? 9 Things You Should Never Say When Asking for a Raise From our trusted Partners From our trusted Partners Home Articles Career Development Career Profiles Which Jobs Pay the Most?

Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) Codes -- Supply Community

Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) Codes -- Supply CommunityNavy Enlisted Classification (NEC) Codes Supply CommunityOver the years, ratings in the Navy, as well as other services, change as technology advances and the needs for the Navy changes with the times. The Store Keeper rating is such a rating. Keeping the inventory and maintaining a supply chain and storefront for the command operation and the crew needs is more technical and requires a thorough understanding of computers, databases, and logistics. Thus, the Store Keeper rating (as well as the Postal Clerk) in the Navy have merged into the Logistics Specialist Rating. The job you do in the Navy is called your rating. You might have a few specialized skills also related to that rating. For example, if a Navy police officer (?MA Master at Arms) receives specialized training as a K-9 Dog Handler, he/she would be awarded NECMA-2005. From that point on, the sailor could be assigned to Navy law enforcement duties involving milit ary working dogs. The Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) system supplements the enlistedrating structurein identifying personnel on active or inactive duty and billets in manpower authorizations. NEC codes identify a non-rating wide skill, knowledge, aptitude, or qualification that must be documented to identify both people and billets for management purposes. Navy Supply CommunityRatings Logistics Specialist (LS) - Store Keepers and Postal Clerks are nowLogistics Specialists. They receive basic training in supply and postal-related logistics functions. Logistics Specialists are responsible for providing exceptional customer service, operating financial accounting systems, managing inventories of repair parts and general supplies that support ships, squadrons and shore-based activities to include the Military Postal System. Advanced and technological training opportunities are available throughout your career development. There is no longer a Store Keeper or Postal Clerk Rating ( SK / PC) as on 2009. Culinary Specialist (CS)- Culinary Specialists receive extensive training in culinary arts, hotel management and other areas within the hospitality industry. Culinary Specialists provide food service catering and hospitality services for Admirals, senior government executives, and within the White House Mess for the President of the United States. This rating is responsible for all aspects of the dining (shipboard mess decks) and shore duty living areas. Culinary Specialists work in the heart of the ship, and are vital in maintaining high crew morale on ships, construction battalions and every shore base. Ship Servicemen (SH) - Ships Serviceman are responsible for managing and operating all shipboard retail and service activities. These include the ships store, vending machines, coffee kiosks (CVN units only), barber shops and laundry operations. They play a large role in the morale of the ship. These Supply Community jobs are critical to the military functionin g with success and maintaining health and morale. Supplying the equipment, parts, food, as well as other miscellaneous necessities and entertainment make the command and deploying with the command much more bearable.

Lease Accounting Trends in Chicago

Lease Accounting Trends in ChicagoLease Accounting Trends in Chicago LEASE ACCOUNTING TRENDS IN CHICAGOHas your company begun the transition to the new lease accounting standard?ChicagoU.S.Yes39%44%No61%56%Finance leaders who reported their company has begun the transition also were asked As part of that transition, have you begun the diagnostic work necessary to determine the level of effort which wil be required for you to be ready to adopt the new standard?ChicagoU.S.Yes, already completed58%48%Yes, started but not completed42%51%No, havent started1%1%Have you completed the following?ChicagoU.S.Identified gruppe members and responsibilities for completing the transition to a new standard90%61%Made an inventory of, and prioritized, any systems changes which might be required85%51%Developed a project plan to address all gaps emanating from the diagnostic work61%49%Identified, at a high level, the magnitude and type of the lease inventory (e.g., property, equipment)75%49%Written new accounting policies44%47%Written new accounting procedures54%43%Investigated any lease or property management systems which will facilitate adoption41%42%What is the most challenging aspect of the transition to the new standard?ChicagoU.S.1.Diagnosing the needed changes1.Training staff2.Identifying, inventorying and categorizing companys leases2.Diagnosing the needed changes3.Training staff3.Finding professionals with the requisite expertiseFor your company, which new accounting standard has been mora challenging to adopt?ChicagoU.S.Revenue recognition76%71%Lease accounting24%29%How much of the processes and learnings from transitioning to the new revenue recognition standard have you been able to apply to adopting the new lease accounting standard?ChicagoU.S.Most of them48%29%Some of them45%54%Almost none of them7%17%Source Robert Half and Protiviti survey of more than 2,000 finance leaders in the United States, including 100 in ChicagoTotal may not equal 100 percent due to roundin g.

How to Request LinkedIn Recommendations

How to Request LinkedIn RecommendationsHow to Request LinkedIn RecommendationsWhen you apply for a job through LinkedIn, you may see a post that says Applicants with recommendations are preferred. These are comments from other LinkedIn members. They describe what its like to work with you and recognize and commend you for work done. They appear alongside the positions they relate to on your profile, and hiring managers may view them as they would a job reference. The best way to get more LinkedIn recommendations is to ask for them, and there are multiple ways to go about doing so. Good recommendations show recruiters and prospective employers that it is worth their time to consider you for a position. The LinkedIn Recommendations Tool LinkedIn offers a tool for recommendations that can be accessed from your profile page or from the profile pages of those whose recommendations you seek. In the recommendations section of your own profile is a link labeled, Ask for a recommendation. Youll be prompted to list the names of the people you wish to ask and other details. From someone elses profile, click More at the top of their profile, then select Request a recommendation. Youll then be prompted to include other details about the request. Theres no limit to the number of recommendations a user can request. Personalized Messages LinkedIn autofills a generic message to send with your request. Personalize the message for a better response. This way, it wont seem as if youre spamming all your contacts in the hopes of a few good reviews. A partiealized message shows you respect the contacts opinion, so you specifically chose them. Even better, first send your contact an email outside the platform to check if its OK to request a recommendation through the service. Youll increase the chances that your message is read. Many busy people ignore notifications they receive from the site. In the email, tactfully suggest points you want to be included in the recommendatio n. Reciprocal Recommendations If youre shy to approach a connection, take the initiative and write a recommendation for your contact without being asked. Thats an incentive for your connection to write one for you to return the favor. Most people are nice enough to reciprocate. Closest Colleagues Receive the best recommendations from the right people. Connections without a close working relationship with you cant offer concrete, honest feedback. The recommendation you receive from them may be generic and insincere. Ideal contacts to approach for recommendations include Colleagues youve worked closely with.Those who have seen your skills and expertise in action.Those who are comfortable recommending you.Those who can speak about a variety of your strengths. Remember, their words will appear on your profile, so what they write about your strengths must be accurate. Professionalism When you ask for a recommendation, make it clear that the recipient isnt under any obligation . Use words like if its not too much trouble, or when you have a chance. This communicates that you respect their time and that they are doing you a favor. This is a professional communication and should be treated as such. Context If the recommendation is for a specific position, direct the person to the job ad to provide him with context for the recommendation. Its another way to suggest the tone of the comments. Briefly, tell him why youre excited about the position or why youre the right fit for the job. Your enthusiasm may motivate him to write a stronger reference, and the specifics of the job can help him choose which attributes to praise. Content Suggestions Most times, people are eager to write comments, but no one wants to jeopardize someone elses opportunities. Your connections will appreciate guidance. For example, list the skills and attributes they could write about. You dont have to feed your contacts every word to say. Tell the person your successes and theyl l vouch for them. Did you work on a lucrative contract together? You could word your request If its not too much trouble, could you provide some comments on my performance during the XYZ contract that finished ahead of time and under budget? Follow-up Dont forget to thank the person for their comments. Theyll have taken time out of a busy schedule to fulfill your request. If youve approached someone you know is a go-to person for references and recommendations, a handwritten note or small gift may be appropriate. And if you havent done so already, write a recommendation in return.