Allied Schools Career Guide

The Importance of the Thank You Letter

2007-02-16T12:50:00.001-08:00

You've completed a successful job interview. What's the next step? You send a "thank you" letter thanking the interviewer for his or her time. This simple act can give you an edge over other interviewees. It's a common courtesy that allows you the opportunity to reiterate your interest in the job and keep your name in front of an interviewer.

Some tips for creating an effective "thank you" letter:

* Make sure to send your note within 24 hours of your interview.
* You can either handwrite or type your thank you letter. Tailor it to fit the company's culture. Decide if it's more appropriate to send a formal typed letter or a personal handwritten note.
* If you choose to e-mail your letter, you should send a hardcopy too. E-mail is a fast way to get your letter in front of the right people, but a mailed letter is the best choice.
* Your writing reflects you - make sure it is error free. Check the letter for grammar, spelling and punctuation.
* Make the note personal. Don't just copy your note from an old letter you have on file. Reference specific things you talked about in the interview.
* If you interview with a few people, send a note to each one. Although you can use the same letter for each, try to tailor a sentence or two to that specific person
* If you expect a decision soon, find a way to get your note in the interviewer's hands fast - consider using e-mail, fax, or hand-delivery.

A "thank you" letter can send an important message about you. It shows that you are truly interested in the job and want to project a positive image. It is the perfect opportunity to remind your potential employer of your qualifications and how you would fit in with the company. It also gives you the chance to correct any mistakes you might have made or add anything you might have missed.

Pay Attention to the Details – It Pays!

2007-02-16T12:47:00.000-08:00

Remember those tedious handwriting classes in school? Dot your I’s and cross your T’s. The same attention to details that your teachers and parents drilled into you during your elementary school years is the same attention to detail you need when preparing your job search paperwork. First impressions last a lifetime; be sure to give your future employer the impression you want to convey.

If given the opportunity to type rather than handwrite, take advantage of it. Job applications often ask tedious and mundane questions. No matter what the content of an application, take the time to fill it out correctly and neatly. If you cannot type out the application, be sure to print instead of handwrite. If you make a mistake, start over. Do not cross out or white-out a mistake. Nothing looks worse than a job application with eraser marks all over the page and white-out globs inside the application fields.

As for the infamous resume, don’t be afraid of this often debated document. If you ask five different people how to write a resume you will probably get 10 different opinions. Writing a resume is a very subjective process. It is your job to make sure your resume conveys your skills and achievements in a clear and concise manner. Remember, if you do not tell your interviewer about your successes, they have no way of knowing what you have done or what you are capable of achieving. Nothing makes a poorer impression than a resume containing errors. Double and triple check your resume for errors and omissions. Spell check your resume, hand check your resume, and then have a friend check your resume. It is difficult to check one’s own work, so don’t be afraid to have someone review it for you. A resume should be the finest piece of written work you can produce!

Paying attention to the details will benefit you during your job search and throughout your entire career. Employers respect employees who take the time to guarantee the quality of their work. Paying attention to the details shows your willingness to go the extra mile. You want to be the person the director turns to for important projects. A manager’s greatest asset is a team member who can get a job done in short order with 100 percent accuracy!

A is for Attitude

2007-02-16T12:29:00.001-08:00

It may come as a surprise, but most small-business owners say that attitude is more important than a solid set of job skills when it comes to looking for new employees. They're not saying that they don't consider job skills important; however, first and foremost, they want their employees to have positive attitudes.

You can probably relate. Nobody wants to be around someone that is negative or complaining all of the time. This ideal incorporates into the workplace. A positive attitude fosters a positive work environment. An upbeat employee is more likely to be productive, motivated and well liked.

How can you project a positive attitude?
Put on a happy face - You can't help but feel good when you smile. It is also contagious. When you smile, your co-workers will smile and so on. There will be positive energy in the office.
Focus on the task at hand - Don't think about what went wrong yesterday. We all make mistakes. If you give your work 100% of your attention, you will have the concentration to do a good job.

Stop the complaining - We all experience things that we do not agree with or do not like. However, instead of lingering on the negative, choose to forget about it and move on. A positive front will go further to advance your career.
Create an inviting work space - You can create a positive work environment by keeping things organized. Clutter often leads to frustration and missed deadlines. Also, add a favorite photo or keepsake.

Keep a positive outlook - Look at each day as a new challenge. By focusing on the positive, you will be more likely to get excited about work. Think of all the possibilities the day has to offer.
A positive attitude is important, but it isn't everything. There are many qualities that add up to a successful employee. Remember to practice good work habits, follow directions, and use competent communication skills. It is also essential to dress suitably, use appropriate behavior, and demonstrate good job skills and knowledge of work operations.

Remember that a good attitude can get you ahead, while a bad one might stifle your chances for success.

Tips to Make Your Resume Stand Out

2007-02-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

A resume is the first thing a potential employer sees when you apply for a job. This simple piece of paper represents you and your employment history. It can determine if you get called for an interview or overlooked for another candidate. Considering this importance, you should make sure that your resume makes a good impression. You've created a resume before, but there might be additional tips that you didn't know. Use this helpful advice to get your foot in the door:

-Include a clear and concise job objective. Make sure to highlight this at the top of your resume. Give potential employers a clear idea of your professional goals.

-Modify your resume for the role you are applying for. You should tailor your resume to match the type of job you want. Change the objective and emphasize relevant skills. You don't want the main focus of your resume to be on experience that has nothing to do with the type of job you want.

-Make sure you have relevant job experience. You need to have experience in the type of job you are applying for. Volunteer to get the skills you need, or highlight your existing skills and illustrate how they apply to the new position.

-Include 10 to 15 years of work experience. This can help shorten the length of your resume and provide the most relevant work experience. If you have important experience beyond those years, you can mention it in your cover letter.

-Don't include hobbies or personal information. Unless the hobby or information is relevant to the type of job you are seeking, you shouldn't include it on your resume.

-Use action words to describe your duties. Pick strong verbs to explain your work history. Words such as "managed, maintained, budgeted, performed, and exceeded" are good ones to use to describe your duties.

Make sure you get the interview you want. Review your existing resume and make sure it adheres to the guidelines above. It might make the difference of receiving a phone call or getting passed over in favor of a candidate with a better resume. Even if you are the best choice, you are only as good as your resume.

Earning What You're Worth

2007-02-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

Are you being adequately compensated by your employer? Believe it or not, more than 50% of Americans believe that they are underpaid. Salary is one of the most important factors to consider when accepting a job. Whether you already have a job or are seeking a new position, you can make sure that you get a salary that fairly represents what you are worth.

You can prepare yourself by:

Getting the right experience -- Do you have the right training and credentials? Make sure that you are qualified for the position that you want. You can support your claim for a higher salary by being a well qualified candidate. Get the skills that will give you an extra edge.

Conducting market research -- Do you know the appropriate salary range? It is extremely important to do your homework, so you know what other people in similar occupations earn. Use the Internet and resource books to research the salaries by professions and geographic regions. You will be prepared when asking for a raise or receiving a job offer.

Knowing what you want -- Do you have a specific salary in mind? It is important to have a firm idea of the salary you want to earn. Use the research you get to determine a suitable and fair salary based on your experience, skills, geographic area, etc.

Negotiating the right salary -- Did you know you have some bargaining power when it comes to your salary? You don't always have to accept the first offer. If you feel that you are entitled to a higher compensation, you should negotiate your salary with your current or future employer. Sometimes it is helpful to start with a higher salary, so that you can be sure to get what you want when the negotiating begins.

A salary is one of the most important factors when it comes to employment. It's the reason that most of us work in the first place. Equip yourself with the information you need to successfully negotiate the salary or raise you deserve. Remember to research salaries for the career field and the geographic area you're interested in. If you are prepared, you will be able to get the results you want.

To Post or Not to Post Your Resume Online

2006-09-19T08:31:00.000-07:00

The Internet seems to be everywhere. You shop for gifts online, download your favorite music online and communicate with friends online. What about finding a job online? It is estimated that as many as 70-80% of job vacancies are never advertised through traditional means. Posting your resume online can increase your exposure to potential employers.

When you post your resume online, you can use it to easily apply for jobs. Even if you're not actively looking for a new job, having a current resume online means employers looking to hire candidates can find you. You might find yourself faced with an exciting new opportunity.

It's usually very easy to post your resume online. Oftentimes it's just a matter of cutting and pasting your existing resume content onto a job search site. You can also create a resume from scratch. You will have the tools to create an effective resume and make the necessary changes to your resume as your job or experience changes. See how many times your resume has been searched and viewed!

Most job search sites will allow you to conduct a confidential job search. You can post a resume and market your skills and experience to employers, while withholding your identity. Those that are interested will still be able to contact you by email or phone in a confidential manner.
Tips for an Effective Online Job Search

Search all job postings, even older ones - You might miss out on a job opportunity if you stick to only new postings.
Don't search for a job while at work - Companies can monitor your activity.
Don't just focus on big job boards - Keep in mind that smaller industry-specific sites can be helpful too.
Don't submit your resume for more than one position with the same employer.
Be patient.

The Internet provides job seekers with options. If you are in the job market, you should consider posting your resume. It gets your resume in front of potential employers and makes it easier to apply to a lot of jobs within your field.

Create a Cover Letter that Works

2006-09-11T20:33:00.000-07:00

Your cover letter can convey a lot about you. Think of it as a first impression. It lets an employer know what your skills are and why you'd be a good fit for a company. It offers a sampling of your most relevant experience and gets the employer interested in learning more about you.

Your goal: to create a well-written letter. This will get an employer's attention and let them know that you are serious about your job search. Make sure to highlight your skills or accomplishments that indicate you are the perfect candidate for the job.

Follow these tips to create an effective cover letter:

1. Keep it concise and to the point - Your cover letter should be no longer than one page. Choose to include only relevant information. It should introduce yourself and explain why you're interested in the position.

2. Personalize the letter - Make sure you know who to address, such as Mr. Green or Mrs. Smith. Try to avoid using "To Whom it May Concern." And always double check that you have the correct spelling.

3. Sell yourself - List your key skills and accomplishments. Explain how you think you'd be a good fit for a company. Show how past experience will help you succeed in this new company.

4. Include a "call to action" at the end - Make your intentions known to the reader. Ask him to contact you or say that you will call him in a few days to follow up. Don't leave the letter open-ended. Make sure it ends with an action or request for an action.

5. Review the letter - Take the time to look over your letter. Even one mistake can cost you a job opportunity. Have a friend or family member review your letter too. Sometimes two eyes can be better than one.

Think of a cover letter as a preview of your resume. It's representing you, so make sure it says the right thing. Get your foot in the door with a winning cover letter.

Know Your Industry

2006-08-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

If you want to advance in your current company or get a new job all together, you can give yourself an advantage by knowing your industry. What are the latest trends? What is the current news in your field? By being informed, you will have the ability to knowledgeably speak about your industry and know what to expect from your career.

A survey conducted on behalf of The New York Times Job Market found that the majority of employers agree that keeping up-to-date in your field is important for conducting a successful job search. Give yourself the knowledge to build a long-term and rewarding career.

Industry trade magazines – These are perfect sources of information! You can learn a lot about your industry by subscribing to trade magazines. Stay on top of current news and trends, and gain access to different employment opportunities. Find out what topics are being covered and what is relevant in your industry today.

Networking – The ideal way to find out about an industry is to talk to people involved in that industry. Find out about specific jobs and what issues are currently affecting those jobs. For example, if you want to enter the real estate market, ask a real estate agent or broker how current interest rates are affecting sales. It is an invaluable way to get the information you need.

Informational interviews – You can find out the “ins and outs” of an industry by talking to industry experts. Set up an informational interview with someone actually working in an industry. It is the perfect opportunity to speak one-on-one with an individual and ask pointed questions about what it is like being employed in that industry.

Online resources – There are unlimited resources at your fingertips! Use the Internet to research a specific industry. Do you want to know about job growth? Do you want to determine salaries in specific geographic locations? You can find all of that and more through the use of your computer. You can also subscribe to online newsletters and e-mail updates. Find out what topics are relevant right now in your industry.

You can give yourself a professional edge by being well informed. By becoming an expert in your industry, you will exude confidence and show that you are dedicated and care about your chosen profession. This might give you the advantage you need to get that promotion or wonderful job offer.

Update Your Resume

2006-08-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

It is important to update your resume on a regular basis. By keeping it current, you will be ready to send your resume to a prospective employer on a moment's notice. You will also have the assurance that your resume reflects your current accomplishments.

Even if you are not planning to look for a new job, you should take the effort to keep your resume up to date. Think of your resume as a work in progress. As your job evolves, your resume should also change to reflect new experience.

Follow these steps to keep your resume fresh and up to date:

Take notes – You should always keep a detailed list of specific duties that you perform and projects that you complete at your job. This will ensure that you know exactly what to include on your resume. Don't overlook critical achievements and contributions! It might be difficult to remember what you did a few months ago. A list will help guide you when you update your resume.
Evaluate your resume – Take a long, hard look at your resume. Is there something that is not relevant? Do you need to provide additional details about a project? Has your objective changed? A resume that you wrote right out of college might not fit your needs when you are a professional with ten years of experience.
Update or rewrite – After you've evaluated your resume, decide whether it requires a simple update or complete rewrite. Your resume might be too long or have outdated information. Decide the direction your resume should take. If you are simply updating your resume, make the necessary changes. If you need to rewrite it, devise a plan and include only the most relevant information. Create a resume that will generate results.

You never know when you will need an up-to-date resume. There might be a layoff, you might decide that you want a change, or an amazing job opportunity might come your way. You should always have your resume ready. You will have the confidence that your resume highlights all of your important accomplishments and accurately represents your work history.

Remember that resumes should be one-of-a-kind. There are no cookie cutter formats. Make it your own and create a winning resume!

Should You Take That New Job?

2006-08-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

At one time, people stayed with the same company for most of their career, working their way up the corporate ladder. Today, it is commonplace for workers to look for a new job in a more frequent manner.

Whether you want to make more money, want a job with more responsibility or even recently lost your job, you will find yourself in the job market sooner or later. You will go through the interview process, forward your references and keep your fingers crossed. Once you get the job offer, should you take it? Here are some things to ponder before you accept a new position:

Make sure you have a solid job offer – Before you do anything, you need to be certain that you've been offered the job. Don't start planning until you reach this point.
Compare the offer you have with your current company – Sit down and evaluate the offer. Are you making more money? If not, is there more responsibility or better work conditions? Is it a better choice for your long-term career?
Make sure it's a good fit – Consider if you will fit in as an employee. Does the company share your work ethic? Do you agree with company policies?
Find out if there is room for advancement – You don't want to be back in the job market within a few months. Make sure that there is room to grow as an employee.
Research the company – Determine the company's plans for the future. Is it a solid company with a good financial future? Is the company looking to expand?

Just because you get a job offer doesn't always mean that it's the perfect fit. Do your homework and make sure that the new position is exactly what you want. The right job is waiting for you – just remember to think before you jump.

Give Yourself a Competitive Edge

2006-08-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

Make yourself stand out from the crowd. Additional education can give you a competitive edge when it comes to getting your dream job. Extra classes and career training can sharpen your skills and make you the first choice when it comes to getting hired.

Maybe you took some classes a few years ago or enrolled in a career training course after high school. Chances are you can use some new skills to give your resume a boost. If you didn't get the promotion you were expecting or weren't offered the job that seemed to be a perfect fit, you might be ready for additional job training.

Add relevant skills to your current job – You might be able to enhance your current position by adding skills that enable you to perform more tasks. By taking on additional duties, you can grow your job potential and solidify your position within your company.
Prepare yourself for a promotion – You can give yourself skills that will help you advance to another position in your current company. For example, if you want to become a manager, you can show your initiative by enrolling in a management course that will give you the skills you need to be an effective leader.
Try an entirely new career – If you have lost enthusiasm for your job, you can try adding some career skills that will enable you to go into a new field. By enrolling in a course or career training program, you can get the tools you need to succeed in something new.

A class or two might be all you need to make yourself more relevant in today's job market. Round out your education with an accounting class or take a computer class to sharpen your skills. Additional job skills can also prepare you to enter an entirely new profession. Whatever you decide, a little effort can pay off big when it comes to your career.

Making a Job Change

2006-01-06T13:40:00.000-08:00

Career Guidance: Making a Job Change

It used to be a good idea to stay with a company for an extended period of time. Employees were rewarded for their loyalty and spent their lives working for the same business. Today, it is different story. Showing up everyday and working hard will not necessarily keep your job secure. There is a different corporate culture.

The good news is that you're in charge. With a positive economy, it is a great time to move your career forward. You can choose to join a company that meets your professional needs. If you want to make more money or secure an exciting job, you have the power to make the change.

So, how do you get started?

* Research the career - Become an expert in the desired field. Determine the career outlook and locate companies in your area. Find out about a typical day on the job.
* Get involved - Network, network, network! Join professional groups and associations that will enable you to make contacts and get an inside look at an industry. You might also get your foot in the door.
* Become an expert - Take the necessary classes or get the experience you need. If you want to enter a new field, you might need to expand your knowledge base. You need to become a specialist in that area.
* Develop a strategy - Make a detailed plan on how to change jobs. Sending out dozens of resumes is not usually effective in today's job market. Figure out how to get yourself noticed.

There hasn't been a better time to change jobs. If you didn't get the raise you were hoping for or have been skipped over for a promotion, you might want to enter the job market. If you do your homework, you will most likely get the job you've always wanted.

Multitasking: Friend or Foe?

2005-12-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

Career Guidance: Multitasking: Friend or Foe?

Multitasking: Friend or Foe?

In today's society, multitasking has become the norm. People are trying to do too many things at once, which has resulted in a juggling act. Work and personal commitments are on the rise, and people are scrambling to get everything done. The thought is that if you can do two things at once, you can save time and take on more responsibility.

Is this a smart way to operate? You might try to talk on the phone, read your e-mail and jot down a few notes all at once. Or you might schedule after-work activities that leave you with no time for yourself. Trying to do it all is a common theme among adults. Today, we are faced with more opportunities, we have higher expectations, and we want everything in an instant.

The truth is, when you are not 100 percent focused on the task at hand, you are more likely to make mistakes.

Concentrating on one task at a time and completing it before moving to the next.
Finishing a conversation without interruptions or starting another.
Knowing your limits and learning to say “no.”
Staying focused and concentrating on the present.
Plan and prioritize! Not all tasks require immediate attention.
Set specific goals and pace yourself so that things get done right the first time.

Also, remember to schedule time for yourself. If you are overworked and overtired, you won't have the ability or energy to complete your tasks.

Is a career change in your future?

2005-12-01T10:08:00.000-08:00

Career Guidance: Is a career change in your future?

Is a career change in your future?

Answer the following questions either "Yes" or "No":

Have you felt that your true skills and talents were not put to good use in your previous jobs?

Do you feel that the work you're currently doing is unfulfilling?

Do you feel restless, like there is "something else" that you should be doing, but are not sure what?

Do you feel that you're capable of doing more with your life?

Do you dread Monday mornings?

If you answered "Yes" to two or more of these questions, then maybe it's time to consider a career change.
Making a career change is a serious decision. It's not just about changing your job; it's about changing your entire future. Of course, any kind of change can be scary, but as the old saying goes, "Do what you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life." Ideally, it makes sense to find work that is best suited toward your talents – you'll be happier, and in turn, you'll be more productive!

What's Next?

So by now you might be thinking about a career change, but how do you sort it all out? First do a little self assessment. What are your talents? Take a second to daydream. If you could do absolutely anything for a living, what would it be? Now think about reality. What are the outside factors that might influence your decision? Family? Money? While it's great to dream, it's just as important to be practical. You could need more training or education, you may have to relocate to a different city, or you'll need to save money for a certain length of time – all to make your career change happen!

It's also a good idea to spend time researching the field you'd like to enter. The Internet is a great place to start. Also, find someone who has your "dream job" and ask them why they chose that particular field, what they love most about their job, and what they don't. Get information about the pay, the typical environment, the stress level and so on.
Next, make a list of the specific actions you'll need to take to achieve your goal. How long would it take to get the education you need? Who can you contact for informal interviews? Write it down. Create a timeline for turning your goal into a reality.

Remember, if changing careers seems impossible given your previous experience (or lack thereof), keep in mind that even if you have no direct experience in the field you want to enter, you probably have a long list of transferable skills. The ability to effectively communicate is just one example of a valuable skill that all employers are looking for. Being detail-oriented, organized and creative are other important transferable skills.

The transition into a new career doesn't happen overnight. However, with a lot of hard work and self-evaluation, you can find a satisfying new career. Good luck!

A Knock Their Socks Off Resume

2005-12-01T10:04:00.000-08:00

When you mail, fax or e-mail your resume, it might be number 58 out of 108 resumes that the Human Resources Director sees that week. So how can you make your resume stand out from the rest?

We don't advocate anything wacky like sending your resume along with an extra-large pepperoni pizza. (Believe it or not, desperate candidates have done this!) However, we are saying that if you make your resume "dynamic" enough, it can land you the interview!

NOTE: All of the following methods will work regardless of whether you create a chronological resume (organized by job titles, starting from the most recent) or a functional resume (with less emphasis on work history, greater emphasis on skills and accomplishments).

SECRET #1: Add Plenty of Action Verbs - Action verbs are the strongest way to describe your previous job responsibilities and accomplishments. Dynamic words like achieved, streamlined, created, managed, or implemented can make your resume come alive. Just remember to use present tense verb phrases for the job you currently hold and past tense for former jobs.

SECRET # 2: Quantify Your Experiences - This one takes a little bit of effort, but it's worth it! Instead of listing just your duties or responsibilities, list your actual accomplishments. This includes adding details, facts, data or numbers. Employers are interested in discovering how you saved money, increased sales, or solved a problem.Examples:Supervised four employees. Created a 120 page report outlining the company's marketing and sales plan. Implemented a new cost-cutting plan that saved the company $20K annually.

SECRET #3: List Your Transferable Skills - You have more skills than you realize! Transferable skills are really "life skills" acquired either on the job or through any other activity, like parenting, volunteer projects, classes and so on. Employers in every industry are searching for candidates who possess excellent organizational, communication and problem-solving skills.

Distance Education and You

2005-12-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

Career Guidance: Distance Education and You

You've decided that you want a change. Maybe you want to start a new career or advance your current situation. However, you might work, have family responsibilities, or live far away from a school. What do you do?
Distance education enables you to complete your coursework away from an actual school campus. Think of it as a virtual classroom. You independently prepare for a new career through online or traditional home study courses. This enables you to be in charge of your future, with the ability to make your own decisions regarding every aspect of your education.

In today's society, distance education is becoming a necessary alternative to traditional face-to-face instruction. With a greater percentage of students balancing academics, careers and families, there is a growing need for different educational methods.

Benefits of Distance Education

Distance education is on the rise. With availability, enrollment and course offerings dramatically increasing in the last decade, there is a greater need for quality home study programs. More individuals are taking advantage of the distance learning option.

Flexible schedule - learn on your own time and at your own pace.
Convenient setting - attend class from almost any location.
Accessible materials - retrieve class materials at any time.
Relevant content - gain real-world experience.
Ease of use - easily access course materials.
Work/family balance - keep your job and maintain the responsibilities in your life while you train.

Start your new future today. Enroll in a distance education program!

Industries at a Glance

2005-10-20T07:59:00.000-07:00

Career Guidance: Industries at a Glance

Be informed! It is important to do some research before you change jobs or embark on a new career. You don't want to choose a field that is shrinking, or pick a job that will be obsolete in a year. You need to plan ahead to ensure that you make an informed decision.

Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions that you will face. It affects almost every aspect of your life – financial, professional and even personal. So before you pick up the classifieds or search for job leads on the Internet, do your homework.

Consider -- Is there positive growth in the industry? Will there be opportunities in your field five years from now. Do you need formal training?

Take a look at some of the top-performing industries:

Medical - The medical industry is projected to have the strongest employment growth of any industry within the next decade. Continued advances in technology, as well as a growing population, will spur this growth and create opportunities for well-trained individuals. There will also be more opportunities to record, transcribe and manage data as older individuals require greater numbers of medical tests, treatments, and procedures. The number of group practices, clinics, and other health care facilities will increase at a steady rate.

Allied's Medical Programs

Medical Billing

Medical Coding

Medical Transcription

Pharmacy Technician

Medical Terminology

Medical Administrative Assistant

Dental Office Assistant

Business - The business industry is projected to have stable growth over the next decade as it continues to expand and provide additional employment needs. Opportunities will be greatest for well-rounded individuals that possess knowledge of computer software applications and office machinery, and demonstrate solid communication skills. Employers will seek individuals that have the ability to perform multiple tasks. There will be an ample amount of full- and part-time jobs as well as temporary positions.

Allied's Business / Professional Programs

California Contractor

Private Investigator

Hotel Restaurant Management

Computer System

Property Management

Administrative Assistant

Microsoft Office Professional

Financial Accounting

Enterpreneurship and Small Business Management

Professional Quickbooks

Real Estate - The real estate industry is projected to experience an increase in employment opportunities over the next decade as a growing population has a greater housing need. With a robust economy, individuals will be more likely to buy a new house, or invest money into a secondary residence. There will be a greater need for agents and brokers if low interest rates continue to spur market activity. Flexible work hours and high earnings potential will draw more people into this profession.

Allied's Real Estate Programs

Real Estate

Real Estate Broker

Home Inspection

Appraisal

Information on career outlooks, wage data, industry forecasts and employment rates is readily available through the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

All of the programs offered by Allied Schools are within industries that have a positive career outlook. What does this mean for you? By enrolling in Allied, you get the skills and training to work in growing and profitable fields. Make the right choice!

Choosing the Right References

2005-10-20T07:58:00.000-07:00

Career Guidance: Choosing the Right References

You walk out of a successful job interview and think that the job is yours. Not so fast…the interview process is not over. Most likely an interested employer is going to ask for a list of references. Before you print out the standard list that's been circulated from company to company for the past few years, you should give your references some thought.

As mortgage and car companies will check your credit history before co-signing a loan, employers will check your references before offering you a job. It is important to make sure that your list includes current, relevant and positive information regarding your job history.

The following steps explain what you should do to maximize your reference list.

Choose effective references - Select individuals that have known you for at least one year. Your list should include four or five people, such as former or current supervisors, colleagues or subordinates, former customers or clients, former professors, or contacts from work-related associations.

Make sure your records are accurate - Verify all contact information, including phone numbers, addresses and titles, to make sure it's up to date. It is important to make it simple for an employer to reach individuals on your list.

Maintain active and positive relationships with your contacts - Keep in touch with your references and make sure they are abreast of your current progress. This can be accomplished through periodic e-mails and phone calls.
Advise references of an important opportunity - Be selective when contacting your references about potential job opportunities. You don't want to call them every time you send out a resume.

Use a reference-checking service - Make sure you know what a reference is going to say about you. This service will contact the individuals on your list and ask questions similar to that of a potential employer.

Ensure that you include references that complement your resume. The goal should be to pick individuals that confirm the details on your résumé and offer positive information about your skills and experience.

A good list of references may be the difference between you and another qualified candidate. Make yours count!

Rules of Relocation

2005-10-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

Career Guidance: Rules of Relocation

You've finally found the perfect job; however, it is located across the country. You're now facing relocation, which can entail changing your residence, moving your family and starting a brand-new job. Luckily, many employers offer assistance to make the transition easier for you.

When you are offered a job that requires you to relocate, you can often request help from the company with the following personal and professional matters:

Moving Expenses - A company will often cover the actual expenses incurred in a move. This includes the costs to hire a mover, transport yourself or your family, and store your items, if necessary. If the organization is unwilling to pay all of the expenses, you might be able to negotiate with your boss to cover a percentage of the move.

Housing Assistance - It is common for a company to pay for house-hunting trips prior to a move. If you are unable to find a house, or if the move is time sensitive, you can often get funds to pay for a rental or other type of temporary housing.

Flexible Start Date - A company will often give you time to complete your move before you start work. This typically includes one or two weeks, which will enable you to get unpacked and situated in your new home before your start your job.

Spousal Assistance - It is common for a company to assist a spouse with his or her job search. The organization will use its network of contacts to help the spouse find a suitable job.

Additional Advice - A company will often provide valuable information about a new community. Your boss and co-workers can provide advice or resources to help you learn about safe neighborhoods, good schools, affordable housing, and other areas of interest in the city.

Relocating to a new city does not need to be overwhelming. Negotiate the above factors with your employer prior to your move. Remember the company wants a satisfied, productive employee. It should be willing to help make your move a happy one.

Recruiters Get the Job Done

2005-10-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

Career Guidance: Recruiters Get the Job Done

Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. We’ve spent countless hours pouring over newspapers or searching Internet job boards in an attempt to find the perfect job. With hundreds of other candidates doing the same thing, it’s hard to make yourself stand out.

Recruiters can help by doing the legwork for you. Basically, they market your skills on your behalf. Their job is to get your résumé and qualifications in front of the right people. Think of recruiters as matchmakers. Their goal is to successfully match your needs with the needs of a company. They do this with no out-of-pocket costs (although some recruiters do charge for their services).

The Benefits of Using a Recruiter

They know the current marketplace and industry trends.
They have a large database of contacts.
They have access to unadvertised positions.
They provide tips on how to strengthen resumes and improve interviewing skills.
The Process
Doing your own job search takes a lot of time. Recruiters can make the process easier by:
Evaluating your experience, qualifications and interests.
Matching your qualifications with a suitable company.
Scheduling interviews on your behalf.
Helping you negotiate a salary and benefits package.

Remember to be up front with recruiters about your expectations for a job. By being honest, they will know your likes and dislikes. They will use your job histories, interview answers and references to make a good match for you. They will be informed to make better choices for your future.

How do you find a recruiter? There are recruiter firms and online networks available to everyone. Simply pick up a phone book or source the Internet to locate the one nearest you.

Seven Steps to Job Search Success

2005-09-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

Career Guidance: Seven Steps to Job Search Success

During the course of your job hunt, it's difficult not to get discouraged at some point, especially if you've been searching for longer than a few months. Sending out resumes by the truckload and going on countless interviews without any offers can take its toll. When it seems like nothing is working, here are a few steps you can take to get your stalled job search back on track!

Get Organized - Keep a record of your contacts, the companies you've sent your resume to, and notes from your interviews. Set aside an area at home and designate it as your Job Search Headquarters.

Re-Evaluate Your Resume and Cover Letter - If your resume isn't generating phone calls for interviews, then maybe something's wrong. Get an unbiased opinion. Have someone else check for typos and grammatical errors. Perhaps in your cover letter, you're not selling yourself enough. Take a long, hard look at what you send out to companies. First impressions count!

Find Quality Leads - Part of your frustration may stem from sending out too many resumes! Avoid the urge to send out a hundred "blind" resumes a week addressed to Whom It May Concern. Take the time to research the company - get the name of the hiring decision-maker and find out if there are job opportunities within the company. You'll get better results with 10 solid leads, rather than a hundred random resumes.

Practice Interviewing - Try a mock interview with a friend. Anticipate answering tough questions like the dreaded "Tell me about yourself."

Follow-Up - Always send a thank you note after the interview. If possible, call if you haven't heard from the interviewer. Let them know you're still interested in the position!

Do Something, Anything! - If you're unemployed, try temping or volunteering part-time. You can gain valuable experience working for temp agencies or non-profit organizations. Add it to your resume!

Maintain a Positive Attitude - This is by far the most important step. You've read those articles that tell you to "keep your chin up", but the bottom line is, most interviewers can smell desperation a mile away! If you walk into an interview thinking "they won't hire me", chances are you'll be right.

Do It All Organizational Multitasking

2005-08-31T07:42:00.000-07:00

I am sure you are familiar with the old idiom that the lowest member of the organization is the most important representative of the organization as a whole. Who is the first person that conveys the image or attitude of a company? Often times it is the telephone operator or the assistant at the reception desk. Starting in the mailroom and working your way up the corporate ladder may seem like a tedious and unwelcome task, but it is a necessary one. Although no one expects you to take a job that you are overqualified for, it is important to know how every job within your organization is performed. A valuable and knowledgeable employee is the key to an organization's competitive advantage.

When looking for a job, be sure to convey your versatility to your future employer. Don't be afraid to share you knowledge base no matter how insignificant it may seem at the time. If you are a highly technical medical biller, showing your knowledge of medical terminology and small business management principles will make you more valuable to the company interviewing you. A manager needs to know that the people they hire have the ability to multitask and pick up the slack if another member of the team is unavailable.

When you become part of a company take the time to introduce yourself to the different departments within the organization. For instance, just because you are a marketing professional does not mean that you cannot and should not communicate with the accounting or human resources department. You never know when you will need the advice or assistance of another department. It is better to build your relationships in the beginning of your career instead of waiting until an urgent need arises and you do not have the proper contacts or working relationships put into place.

Don't be afraid to branch out. It is much harder for a company to "let someone go" if they are heavily integrated within the company. A person who makes themselves valuable on many different levels will become an important asset to the company. Improve your employability through continuing education and other specialized on-the-job training. If there is a new tool or technique that you can learn, do it! Challenging yourself today will benefit your entire career. Be the invaluable employee your company can depend on for mailroom sorting and executive-level strategy planning.

Kick the "Seminar" Habit

2005-08-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

In today's business world, seminars are used frequently to teach business professionals the latest and greatest business and management tools. But there is a major flaw to the live seminar infrastructure; they do not provide one-on-one instruction. Instead, seminars herd a large group of people into one room or conference hall for a day or two where "one" instructor or seminar host spouts forth "his" viewpoint or experience on the latest business module/buzzword/management style/corporate thingamabob. In other words, seminars provide attendants with watered-down, bullet-pointed information on a narrow topic (at a couple hundred bucks a head to boot).

So why do business professionals continue to attend these seminars? It's simple; they've never considered distance education.

Distance education is an amazing innovation that has been around for centuries. Distance education (also know as home study) allows you to go at your own pace. There's no need to squish a semester's worth of information into a two-day seminar. With distance education, you have the flexibility to learn the latest business components at your own pace and from the comfort of home (not a drafty conference hall).

Today, thousands of instructional business courses are available through the convenience of home study. Distance education has torn down the modular walls and hard plastic chairs of conference centers and replaced them with all the comforts of your own home. Distance education is quickly gaining recognition as the convenient alternative to classroom/conference hall instruction and could one day overshadow live seminars completely.

The Four P's of Job Success : Professionalism - Personality - Punctuality - People

2005-08-09T12:16:00.001-07:00

Career Guidance: The Four P's of Job Success Professionalism - Personality - Punctuality - People

People in the marketing field know the four P's of marketing: product, price, promotion and place. Today I share with you the four P's of job success. I'm sure it's not a surprise to anyone that a person's job success depends on many different factors. Some of these factors we cannot control, but many of them we can. If we have the ability to help ourselves and take charge in our career, why not do so?

Professionalism: Be proud of who you are and present that image to your employer.

During the initial interview, your interviewer will be looking for certain characteristics. He or she will note how you talk, how you hold yourself. Do you have a firm handshake or do you constantly avoid eye contact? These may be of little significance to you, but to a future employer these signs show who you are and what your work ethic is. Professionalism spans beyond the quality of work you produce. It plays an integral part in your interactions with other employees and customers. Remember, who would you want representing you?

Personality: Having a good personality doesn't mean we have to be the class clown or prom queen (or king).

Personality is your key to winning people over. Having a genuine love of people will help you build relationships with your customers and coworkers. Be kind, courteous, friendly, and patient with those around you. If you are a new hire at a company, don't walk into your workplace with an air of arrogance. Humble yourself in front of others and be willing to learn from those who have years of experience. Likewise, if you have been an employee of a company for many years, be willing to adjust to new people and new trends. No one likes to work with the office grump!

Punctuality:This is very simple.

No matter what your schedule is like, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, BE ON TIME. There is no excuse to be late. It looks bad and it shows a lack of respect for all parties involved.

People:Learn to like people even if you don't.

Nothing in this world can be achieved without the help of others. You will learn to depend on others in your personal and professional life, and every one of the P's mentioned in this article will assist you in working well with others. Starting a new job requires integrating your own personality with the personality of your coworkers. If you are still in the interviewing process, show your future employer that you appreciate the chance to work one-on-one with others. People skills sell!

Customer Service + You = Career Success!

2005-08-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

Career Spotlight:Customer Service + You = Career Success!

Good customer service is necessary for business success. The way a business treats its customers directly affects its sales numbers and return business. Business owners and managers know the importance of customer service quite well and implement programs at every level of business to ensure customer satisfaction. This includes hiring employees who know the value of customer service and, more importantly, know how to properly deal with customers.

What is Customer Service? Customer service involves more than just smiling and greeting. It involves attention, concern, retention, assistance, and more. Most importantly, good customer service creates positive word-of-mouth. Having positive word-of-mouth from past customers is the best kind of promotion any company can have. That's why employers prefer to hire employees who have proven customer service skills, and can help create positive word-of-mouth for a company.