Virtually everyone in the U.S. can belong to a credit union through either their employer or affiliation with a group like a place of worship. A third option is many credit unions have “community” charters and serve a region defined by geography rather than by association. Because they are cooperatives where each member is an owner, credit unions operate as nonprofits and return earnings back their members in the form of better rates on savings and lower fees for services. That’s great for everyone, but credit unions have other benefits that are particularly important to those just starting out.  

Many young people have difficulty obtaining credit because their incomes are low and they have little or no credit history. And the current credit crunch has caused many banks to tighten their lending standards. But because credit unions are chartered to serve their members’ needs and are less likely to be forced by the marketplace to change their underwriting standards, they are making loans others will not – and with comparatively lower rates and fees.

“Higher savings rates, lower fees and access to credit are benefits everyone can appreciate, but younger tech-savvy people are also interested in services like plentiful, no-fee ATMs, online and mobile banking, and image deposits. Credits unions offer these too,” says Stan Hollen, president and CEO of CO-OP Financial Services, a provider of personal finance tools to credit unions, and itself owned by its members. “Today’s credit unions offer their members, young and old, the latest financial technologies so they can access their accounts anywhere, anytime, nationwide.”

Credit unions are, by design, regional, but provide their members nationwide services through CO-OP. Among the services offered is CO-OP Network, the largest ATM network in the country with more than 28,000 surcharge-free locations. That’s more than any bank. CO-OP member credit unions also provide next-generation personal finance tools like mobile banking that can interface with iPhones, Web-based deposits, tap-and-go payment processing and reloadable prepaid cards.

Some young people might lean toward choosing a bank over a credit union because they want their deposits insured, not knowing that credit union member deposits are insured up to $250,000. Credit union-issued credit cards also tend not to have an annual fee.

“The increasing cost of gas, groceries and other expenses eat away at the starting salaries of recent graduates,” says Hollen. “These can be offset somewhat by choosing to make a credit union their primary financial institution. Young people are looking for speed, convenient financial transactions and quality. Today’s credit unions offer all of this, along with their well-known, hometown friendly service.”

Courtesy of ARAcontent

A resume is an essential selling tool in any job search. The document presents a clear, concise outline of your qualifications, skills and accomplishments. “The function of a resume isn’t to get you a job, but to get you the interview,” says Tammy Smith, director of career services at Brown Mackie College – Hopkinsville. “It’s up to you to land the job.”

Smith’s responsibilities at Brown Mackie College – Hopkinsville include guiding students through the process of creating high-performance resumes. “Employers spend an average of 15 seconds reading a submitted resume, and 85 to 95 percent of all resumes end up in the trash, according to First Place Resumes. In order to keep a prospective employer’s attention, your resume must create immediate interest and provoke action. It’s important to be concise because every second counts,” continues Smith. How do you do this? Smith outlines several important considerations to note when creating or updating a resume.

Create visual appeal.

Your resume should be visually appealing. “This includes suitable font,” says Smith. “Job-seekers should use the Times New Roman, Courier or Arial fonts, no smaller in size than 10 and no larger than 12.” Smith also counsels students to use professional quality paper in beige, white or gray. Definitely stay away from pink paper, and don’t even consider clouds in the background or flowers on the border.

Customize content for each individual position.

It helps to clearly emphasize your specific skills that relate to the open position of interest. Smith advises students customize the resume for each job opportunity. “List duties from prior positions in order of preference relative to the job you want the most, not the job you had. Don’t include responsibilities that you don’t want to do again,” she says. Eliminate job information that is more than 10 years old. Old information is no longer relevant. She also reminds students to be prepared to discuss the content of the resume at the interview.

Use active language and keywords.

When writing your resume, avoid using passive language. Place achievements and results within each job description on the resume. This demonstrates capabilities and responsibility. “When describing job duties, you must use strong action verbs,” Smith says. Action verbs, such as implemented, improved, operated and earned, strengthen a resume, making it more powerful and appealing.

“Next, it is crucial to use keywords,” says Smith. Keywords can be a single word or a phrase that summarizes your core competencies. These are words or phrases others would use to search online for applicants that could fill a position of interest to you. “This is especially important when posting your resume online with search engines such as careerbuilder.com or monster.com,” Smith continues.

Be prepared for unexpected opportunities.

Always ensure your resume is up to date. “You never know when the perfect career opportunity will knock,” says Smith. Remember, your resume is the first impression you make to an employer. It is a selling tool that highlights the skills and experience you can contribute to the employer’s workplace. It structures the interview, providing a framework of topics to discuss. A resume also reminds employers of you when you’re not there, and can help an employer justify bringing you on board.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Preparing for your job interview is a lot more than updating your resume and getting a haircut. Doing your homework is critical to your success. In the current competitive job market, no amount of research is too extreme, says Jodi Berkshire, assistant director of Career Services at The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. No one can anticipate every question an employer might ask, but you should be prepared to gracefully handle the most commonly asked questions. To prepare for the job interview, Berkshire says here are a few questions you should be expecting:

1. “Tell me about yourself.” Don’t mistake this one for an easy question. If you don’t carefully prepare your answer prior to the interview, it will show. The interviewer is not interested in where and when you were born, your childhood, your family or your hobbies. Craft a short response that gives a thumbnail sketch of you professionally. This is a great place to insert some of your sterling qualities and accomplishments and make sure that they dovetail with the requirements of the position for which you are interviewing. Be positive and enthusiastic and whatever you do, don’t ramble.

2. “What do you know about our company?” “How did you hear about us?” Or, “Why do you want to work for us?” These are all variations on the same theme. The real question is: Did you do your homework? Any interviewer will expect that you have researched the company. That means that you should know their website inside and out. Have you Googled the company? Have you read any recent articles about them? If the only information you have to offer is what any person off the street who isn’t applying for the position knows, it shows that you don’t care enough and you’re not very thorough.

3. “What are your strengths?” “Why should we hire you?” You can count on this question cropping up at some point during the interview. Here’s a simple way to prepare. Take a sheet of paper and fold it in half vertically. On one side list all the specific technical qualities that you possess. Look at the job description and consider each skill that is mentioned. For example, if the job description mentions software skills that are required and you have those skills, go ahead and list them. In the other column, list the personal qualities that you bring to the job. These could be things like punctuality, reliability, enthusiasm, work ethic, professionalism, etc. Again, take another look at the job description and anticipate what qualities that hiring manager would be looking for. Here is your chance to sell yourself. Don’t be afraid to let them know what a great addition you’d be to their company.

4. “What is your greatest weakness?” “How have you overcome it?” Be careful with this one. It is a potential minefield. This is not the time to bare your soul and reveal your deepest insecurities. Whatever you do, don’t say you procrastinate, have trouble meeting deadlines, arrive late or that you don’t get along well with others. You have two good choices here. You can either choose a weakness that is really a strength to an employer (you become so engrossed in your work that you find it hard to take a break until the project is completed), or choose something that you had to master at the beginning of your career that would be an expected learning curve for any entry-level recent college grad (you didn’t really grasp project management in your first job and you had to make a deliberate effort to learn about time lines and time management.). If you choose the second example, make sure that you stress how your performance increased once you mastered the missing skill.

5. “What would your past employer tell me about you?” Again, tread carefully. Do not, under any circumstances, say anything negative about any past employer. Settle on a few of your strongest qualities and concentrate on those that reflect your strong work ethic and professionalism. Here is another perfect opportunity to sell yourself, but once again, be careful not to ramble.

6. “Why did you leave your last position?” If you left because you relocated or were offered a better position, you can breathe a sigh of relief. But what if you were terminated by the company? It’s not the end of the world; it happens to everyone at some point in their career. Again, do not say anything bad about your last employer. If your position was eliminated due to budget cuts, say so and make it clear that you have nothing but fond memories and good feelings about the company. If you were let go because of something you did, try to take responsibility while making it clear that you would handle things differently today and that you learned a valuable lesson. Keep it short and sweet and don’t be tempted to go into long, complicated explanations.

7. “What kind of salary are you looking for?” You can be assured that the interviewer knows what they are willing to pay. Again, there is no substitute for doing your homework. You should research what similar positions are worth in your area. Be careful to compare apples to apples on this one. A copywriter in New York can expect a higher salary than one in Detroit. Also look closely at the amount of experience and the skills required. A recent college graduate will not command the same salary as someone with five to 10 years of experience. You might say something like, “My research tells me that graphic designers in this area are generally earning (average salary range). How does that fit with what your company is offering?” And make sure that you can justify why you should command that salary range you are expecting.

Once you’ve done your research, practiced answers to commonly asked questions and become comfortable with the idea of selling yourself, remember to smile. In most interview situations, the candidate who appears to be relaxed, confident (not arrogant) and enthusiastic, usually has the best chance of being hired.

To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

“Looking for a job is a job in itself,” says Anthony Davis, director of Career Services at Brown Mackie College – Fort Wayne. “If you expect to work 40 hours a week, then you must be prepared to put in many hours in your job search.”

Davis says job seekers must first be committed. “There are many obstacles that prevent job seekers from being committed, including wanting to sleep in later in the morning and walking around the house in pajamas. These are nothing but distractions. If you start work at 8 a.m. and have been getting up at 6 a.m., do not change your schedule. Your job search should begin fully dressed at 8 a.m.”

The next step is to have a razor-sharp resume. This is very important, especially if you have been out of work for quite a while or are new to the process. If you don’t have the money to pay a professional to craft your resume, Davis says there is online information and many books available on crafting resumes for specific jobs. “Your resume must speak to the job you are applying for,” Davis says. “A resume that does not will quickly be tossed in the outbox trash.”

Regardless of the resume type, it is important to be able to quantify your accomplishments. For example, if you saved the company 20 percent because of a process you created, or you developed an initiative that was implemented by the company, put it in writing and explain the results of your action. “Don’t forget to update your resume every six months or so, especially if you completed a new project, assignment, or joined a community-based organization,” Davis advises.

Now it’s time to create your own job search team to help advise you while you are looking for a job. For established job seekers, a sampling of team members can be professional colleagues, business associates and past co-workers. For newer job seekers, team members can be close friends, parents, college professors and alumni. The team you select should be willing to provide you with honest feedback as you embark upon your journey and provide the feedback without expecting anything in return.

Job seekers should be networking. Going through the newspaper’s job ads and online career listings are OK, but nothing takes the place of networking. You may ask, “Network with whom, where and when?” The short answer, Davis says, is “everyone, everywhere, and all the time.” In fact, according Davis, members of the job seeker’s job search team should be some of the same people the job seeker should be networking with. Many of these people have valuable contacts.

Other networking opportunities can be found just by volunteering for a nonprofit organization. Volunteering shows commitment and initiative. Even if you aren’t doing anything too mentally taxing, you can increase your industry knowledge and may discover a new career path that you hadn’t thought of before. Plus, you’ll be helping other people.

Many nonprofits need volunteers with experience. If you have accounting experience, there may be a nonprofit out there that needs your expertise. There have been job seekers who have turned their volunteer opportunity into real jobs.

After each step in the process, keep a log of what occurred. Finally, Davis says its important to keep your head up, maintain positive thoughts and don’t quit. You will find something out there.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

As employment opportunities within these new and emerging industries continue to expand, educational institutions are taking a look at refining curriculums to provide career-focused higher education, and better prepare students for careers in specific fields.

To do this, universities are working directly with high-caliber employers to ensure their future employee needs will be met. DeVry University, for example, works directly with companies including IBM and Cisco to create these student programs. DeVry University graduates from the last five years have worked at 96 of the Fortune 100 companies.

“Students are looking to obtain the education and knowledge needed to succeed in the high-growth industries that continue to thrive,” says Donna Loraine, vice president, academic affairs for DeVry Inc., and dean, DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management. “Our academic structure is one that allows for swift implementation of new programs and curriculum once we notice a specific need, allowing us to better prepare students for these in-demand 21st century careers.”

According to the Center for Education Policy Analysis, technology is pervasive in almost every aspect of daily life, and as the workplace changes, STEM knowledge, skills and the ways in which problems are approached and solved in these subjects are important for a variety of workers.

DeVry worked closely with Cisco using the Cisco Networking Academy program to deliver curriculums that teach students how to design, build, troubleshoot and secure computer networks.

“Working with DeVry University to equip students with technical knowledge and hands-on experiences will help meet growing demand for skilled workers in a variety of industries ranging from broadband and wireless to healthcare and green technologies,” says Amy Christen, vice president of corporate affairs at Cisco and general manager of the Cisco Networking Academy. “Individuals that are trained in the latest technology careers today will be well-prepared for a variety of exciting career opportunities tomorrow.”

In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics is anticipating an approximate 45 percent growth in the computer software engineer and application occupations. Anticipating this demand, these student/employer partnerships aim to prepare soon-to-be graduates for these technology careers, while helping to fill a growing need for professionals in the emerging industries around the world.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

In December 2009, a poll by CBS News and The New York Times revealed a growing number of people are considering making a change in their career choice, with 44 percent pursuing job retraining or other educational opportunities. In the same poll, 40 percent of the respondents said they had moved to another city or considered moving in their search for employment.

A positive attitude goes a long way.
“Nearly everyone, employed or not, is searching for career security,” says Robert Gray, director of career services at Brown Mackie College – Northern Kentucky. “If you find yourself out of work, try to maintain optimism. A person with a positive outlook tends to get quicker results and better results. A negative attitude is reflected in your persona. It can communicate a bad vibe and make it seem like you are simply looking for the next thing to complain about.”

With optimism in mind, the tight job market can present opportunities that tend to be overlooked when employment options are more abundant. You can take steps to brighten seemingly lackluster employment prospects by taking stock of your skills, level of education and even your hobbies, advises Gray.

Self reflection often reveals new opportunities.
When a job ends, allow yourself time to reflect on what makes you happy. “Assess your life in general,” Gray says. “Are you happy with your house or could you maybe get along living in a smaller one? What about your car?” Downsizing your monthly expenses can alleviate financial pressures, making it easier to maintain a positive attitude.

Gray suggests making a list of your three greatest strengths. “Strengths are always easy to think up,” Gray says. “Weaknesses aren’t quite as forthcoming, but they are good to know.” He suggests asking family, friends and co-workers about your weaknesses. Armed with this knowledge, you can update your resume to include a comprehensive explanation of your qualifications. “It doesn’t hurt to ask others for advice on what to do. A fresh set of eyes on your life, interests and skills can open up new options that haven’t yet been seriously considered,” Gray continues.

Reflection time also provides the opportunity to explore educational paths and new careers. If the option of changing careers doesn’t appeal to you, check out certification programs that can bolster your qualifications in your current field. You can find information at www.brownmackie.edu.

Fill any gaps in employment with productive activities.
“It is generally easier to find a job when you have one. Simply having a job implies marketable skills and the ability to complete the assigned work. It is important to address any gap in your employment history,” Gray says. “While you’re unemployed, involve yourself in activities that suggest you are still being productive, still have enthusiasm.” He suggests volunteering at a hospital or homeless shelter, or participating in church activities.

Working alongside others allows for the ever-important step of networking. “You never know when or where you may meet somebody who may be in a position to hire you, particularly if they know you personally,” says Gray. “Attending school is a perfectly acceptable gap in employment. Still, it can benefit you to find something to do to be productive. Experience is experience, even if there’s no pay in it.”

Keep your career in perspective.
“We should not allow ourselves to be defined by our careers or employment status. Other things make you who you are – not just your career,” Gray says. “That’s an important point for all of us. If you live for you job and get your fulfillment from it alone, you’ll lose your sense of self if you’re let go. On the other hand, if you love what you do, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”

Courtesy of ARAcontent

A simple Google search reveals the number of available scholarships. Granted, it takes patience and perseverance to plow through the exhaustive lists. And once you unearth a scholarship you qualify for, you are in for a barrage of paperwork.

However, the task is not more onerous than filling out the paperwork necessary to obtain a student loan. The incentive of eliminating or reducing your tuition liability should propel you along when paperwork piles high.

“Many scholarships go unclaimed,” says Fred Hamilton, director of Student Financial Services at The Art Institute of New York City. “The initiative and persistence that will get you over the hurdle of paying for your tuition will serve you well as you go forth into the world of work. Future employers will likely take notice.”

The Art Institutes schools offer four scholarship competitions including The Best Teen Chef Competition, Passion for Fashion Competition, Art Institutes/Americans for the Arts Poster Design Competition and Storytellers Photography Competition that award more than $800,000 total in scholarships for those interested in pursuing a creative arts education.

There are countless specialized offerings, including those aimed at minorities in general, African-Americans and Hispanics in particular, faith-based listings, government sites, individual college, corporate, military, union, fraternal organization offerings, and untold numbers of others.

It’s important to realize you don’t need a 4.0 grade point average to land a scholarship. Here is an example of an opportunity you might not expect to find: Xerox offers a technical scholarship limited to minority students. If you qualify, it would be a financial break, plus a possible foot in the door on the way to a career with a well-known corporation.

The first hurdle is locating a scholarship that’s right for you. Take a personal inventory, including your ultimate career goals. Your high school guidance counselor will be aware of local and state offerings, but the richest source is the internet.

There is no need to pay a fee to locate appropriate scholarships among the 13,500,000 listed on Google or any other site. For free help, go to collegeboard.com and click on Parents. Other free sites include scholarshipexperts.com and collegeanswer.com (click on Scholarship Search).

Go through the online listings in small gulps, then come back later and resume where you left off. You will be encouraged when one or more listings leap off the page, seemingly created just for you.

“Our goal is to make it possible for students to enroll in our school and get the benefits of a career-focused education,” Hamilton says. “We can guide them to sources of funding, but if they come to us having researched and landed a scholarship, everyone’s job is that much easier.”

To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

1.    Don’t be afraid to talk with people.
Don’t be intimidated because you are a student. People are sometimes too busy to roll out the red carpet so you have to make the first move to talk with coworkers and supervisors.

2.    Ask for things to do.
Don’t wait to be told what to do. Solving problems and taking initiative are the best ways to stand out from the crowd.

3.    Learn all you can about the industry.
Talk with people in different departments as well as clients and vendors.

4.    Read everything you can get your hands on.
You won’t find everything you need to know in the training manual. Reading contracts, letters, memos, press releases and trade publications will help you become informed on all elements of the business.

5.    Don’t gripe about the grunt work.
There is always something more to learn. How long you do grunt work depends on what you make of it. Everything has a purpose, so learn how the small tasks fit into the big picture.

6.    Milk the fact that you are a student.
As a student, you aren’t threatening and can have more access and opportunities than a full-time employee. Everyone wants to help a student learn.

7.    Hitch your wagon to a star.
Learn from the people who are the superstar performers and most respected individuals in the office.

8.    Get in the information loop.
Decisions aren’t always made in a conference room.

9.    Ask to attend meetings and events.
You will learn how things really get done.

10.    Don’t burn any bridges.
You never know when you will see someone later in your career.
Fastweb.com, 2008