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Using Technology to Streamline Your Job Search

In today’s competitive job market, it’s important to stay one step ahead of the crowd. While the tried and true methods of cold calling and sending cover letters still work, technology has made the process much more interesting.

 

We now have access to personal websites, social media, and the ability to interview from anywhere in the world. Further, an increasing number of employers are using big data analytics to streamline hiring processes. In order to thrive in this new job market, you need to be on the cutting edge. If you leverage tech advancements, you stand a great chance of finding that dream job. Utilize these technologies and best practices when searching for your new position:

Search for Jobs From Anywhere

The wonderful thing about technology is that it not only allows us to apply to jobs on the go but to interview on the road as well. There are several apps that job seekers should download to their mobile devices that can help streamline application and interview processes. For instance, many companies are jumping on the tech bandwagon and are opting to have phone and video chats with candidates.

 

Some of the more popular video chat apps include Skype and GoToMeeting, which allow you to use the camera installed in your device to have the interview seamlessly. It is a good idea to download these apps now so you are prepared for that last-minute interview. There are other job search sites that you should look into as well. These include Glassdoor, which can help you find jobs based on salary and company size, and LinkUp, which searches only verified job listings that are located on company websites.

 

In this technology-fueled world, the internet is a tool you simply cannot be without, especially when you are job searching. However, if you find out about a new job or a sudden interview and you don’t have access to the internet, you could always use your cell phone as a mobile hotspot. Doing so is as easy as activating the hotspot and then connecting your laptop or other mobile device. That way, you are not stuck with shoddy public Wi-Fi.

Proper Social Media Etiquette Can Help

These days, 90% of job seekers under 30 have a social media profile, and many businesses have one as well. You can take advantage of these companies with a thoughtful online presence.

 

Before you even start contacting businesses, you need to ensure that your social media profiles are clean and friendly. Employers these days will do everything they can to make sure they get the right candidate, so you can bet they’ll search through your profiles. For that reason, do not post any photos that you wouldn’t want your mother to see.

 

Many people opt to use LinkedIn, which should only be used as a way of applying to jobs and attracting hiring managers. When you use LinkedIn, take the time to add all necessary details, including where you have worked and the skills you learned or utilized while working there. Choose a professional photo where you are dressed for the type of position for which you are applying — typically a suit or collared shirt. Finally, list your finest professional achievements as employers are often looking for the top talent.

 

As far as the other social media profiles, post in such a way that companies will take notice and want to further engage with you. If you are going to use Twitter, then keep current with posts and tweet meaningful messages that are connected to your chosen profession. This is the place to tweet about accomplishments and thoughtful opinions on current news in your field. On Facebook, make it a habit of “liking” the companies that you are interested in working for and feel free to post the fact that you are looking for a job along with your qualifications.

Incorporate Technology Into Your Resume

One significant advancement on the side of the job providers are applicant tracking systems that categorize job seekers and use bots to sort out the individuals that they don’t believe are suitable for the position.

 

The trick is to format your resume properly so you can get through that first round and into the hands of the hiring manager. If you’re unsure where to start, a quality resume writing service can craft a resume for you that truly showcases your abilities. Tweak your resume to set yourself apart from the pack:

 

  • Start by using proper spelling; misspellings look unprofessional, and bots may not understand what you are trying to say.
  • Some also recommend that you skip the career objective section at the start of your resume. Instead, start it off with a bullet point list of your experience and best career achievements.
  • If you are applying for a job for which you have previous relevant experience, consider adding infographics and charts that can further illustrate the skills that you bring to the table.
  • Further, consider utilizing technology to showcase your abilities. Instead of simply writing out some qualifications in text, add hyperlinks that will lead potential employers to your online portfolio or even a personal website that showcases your abilities.

 

Creating a website is easier than ever before, and it can be made for free from places like Wix and SquareSpace. Many of these websites give you templates that are easy to modify with important information about who you are, your previous experience and accomplishments, and any work samples that show off your talents. Feel free to add a little personality to the website with professional videos and some photos of you practicing your craft.

 

Technology will only continue to evolve as time goes on, so it is a good idea to adapt your job search now so you are ready for the jobs of tomorrow. Start utilizing these tech tips and stay ahead of the pack.

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Can you really BYOB ~ Be Your Own Boss?

My name is Michelle McLeod, and this is a story about empowerment and building a business.

After retiring early and taking a buyout from General Motors due to company down-sizing, I was looking to supplement my income with something where I can work when and where I want.

That is how I discovered Network Marketing, I wanted to start my own business and be my own boss. Most important to me was that after working for that giant company for all those years I wanted to do something that I love doing. Make sure you read that I LOVE WHAT I DO!!

Well I found a way to do both, I discovered the Business model for me was one that allowed me to create my own company while at the same time spreading the message of empowerment and self-worth to other women at the same time. Before I share my Business with you, I want to tell you more about the struggle.

Life happens and setbacks occur, from relationships to work to family…. life happens and it happened to me.

I had to do a business reboot due to life and this company not only encouraged that but was there to help me succeed.

Talking about empowerment and being made to feel good about yourself.  One of my greatest triumphs in this company was earning a signature necklace THE MICHELLE named after myself, a top honor in our company I was one of 10 out of 70,000 that earned this honor. Now our company has more than 320,000 people earning money and empowering each other and those around them. Nothing would make me feel better than mentoring someone else from my Team to achieve that same honor!

Can you really be your own boss (BYOB) the answer is a resounding yes!

What an amazing effect slinging bling has had on my life! I have hundreds of team members now that I can call friends as well as business partners! We empower each other daily and weekly, and I’ve created a training program to continue to empower more Women to succeed on their own.

I can give you ten quick reasons why this could be for you too:

Do you need a new career?

Do you want to be your own boss (BYOB)?

Do you want to work your own hours?

Do you love Jewelry?

Do you want to have fun at work ?
Do you like looking great on a budget ?
Do you know a good thing when you see it ?
Do you a no catalog, no order taking, free web site for all company ?
Do you want all of that from a $5 product that everyone has and loves?

If you answered YES to any of the questions above than THIS IS FOR YOU!

I not only love what I do, I love the product, I love the Company too. Six years ago I found the right company PAPARAZZI ACCESSORIES. This is a $5 jewelry company, there are so many ways to make a great income, it is just such an exciting opportunity and I looked at so many of them.

All Paparazzi Accessories are Lead and Nickel free, gorgeous and did I say 5$?  In this economy if you want to be competitive you have to be affordable. At my very first showing/event I had guests three deep and I left with my pockets filled. I knew then that this business was for me and I could teach others how to feel empowered and good about themselves too. The look on a customer’s face when I say 5$ is priceless and my necklaces come with earrings at that same price point.

You have the opportunity with this business to create the environment that YOU choose! You have the option of daily sales to earn cash, set up an online store, build your own team of consultants and earn a residual income on all your team consultant revenues too. The point is that there are so many ways to create your own profitable business with Paparazzi.

If you are interested in learning how to create and successfully run your own Jewelry contact me I would be happy to talk to and invite you one of my team’s weekly on line meetings. Ask me about the special “Free Jewelry in July” offer too!

Michelle McLeod
Producer, Paparazzi Jewelry
702.509.3221


www.paparazziaccessories.com/vegasbling
http://www.youtube.com/c/PaparazziVegasBlingfor5
www.facebook.com/vegasblingfor5

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Music Therapy as a Viable Career

Music has a way of guiding our emotions. The feeling and theme of a song can guide our feelings down one path or another and allow them to get comfortable there. For musicians, the goal in songwriting and playing is to create music that gets listeners to feel the emotions that went into making the music. The emotional elements of music are powerful, and in that power is possibility. Harnessing those possibilities into help for others is what music therapy is all about.

 

Music therapy is about manipulating how music affects a person into something innately positive for a variety of different types of patients. Becoming a music therapist involves schooling to teach a wide variety of elements within the profession. However, for musicians who want to give back, there are also ways to provide a type of therapy with your music simply by playing it.

How Music Therapy Works

Music therapy is beneficial for mental health, communication, neurology, pain, physical therapy, etc. Whether a patient is playing music or listening to it, music therapy works by tapping into a patient’s emotions, biology, and brain function. Music has such a positive effect on the brain that it’s used to calm shelter animals and soothe babies born prematurely. Music is universal, so it’s a therapy that is versatile. Music therapy works in the same way that music can affect a normal person listening to a song on the radio, or a musician playing a song on the piano, but in a strategic and deliberate way for each patient and their needs.

Who is Music Therapy For

Music therapy has been used for mental health patients struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many other mental health conditions. It’s also used for cancer patients, children with developmental disabilities, those undergoing physical therapy, or patients living with Alzheimer’s. Music therapy can be used in terms of playing it, listening to it, learning it, or in conjunction with other types of therapy. Human behavior has a lot to do with family relationships and and social patterns, and music therapy can have a hand in helping patients from a social-behavioral standpoint as well. Generally speaking, music therapy is for anyone, but where you work as a music therapist will have a lot to do with the type of patients you’ll treat.

How to Become a Music Therapist

Becoming a music therapist begins with a passion for music and music theory. Knowing how to play a variety of different instruments and styles will be paramount in therapy and schooling. You’ll also have to have a passion for helping others through your love of music. A music therapist needs to have attended a university and graduated with a bachelor’s degree or higher taking classes in music, human development, and psychology, among others. An internship is also required to gain some experience, and pass an equivalency program. After that, you’ll take a certification exam. After passing it, you are eligible to find employment as a music therapist. Utilize the growing community of musicians and healthcare professionals you’ll find in schooling to help you find a place of employment or internship you’ll love.

Where to Work as a Music Therapist

Where you’ll work as a music therapist will depend on the type of therapy you’re looking to do, and the type of patients you’re interested in. In a hospital setting, you may work with patients recovering from injury, those being treated for cancer, or patients who are terminal. In a psychiatric setting, you may be working with patients with mental health struggles, cognitive delays, or behavioral problems. In a school setting, you may work with children with developmental or physical delays. In a rehab facility, you will work with recovering addicts who may also have a mental health diagnosis or significant stress related to recovery. In a senior care facility, you may work with patients who have memory loss or physical ailments. Self-expression is so important, and music therapists often help patients do that through music.  

Helping Others as a Musician

There are ways to help others with music therapy as a musician without becoming a licensed music therapist. Though your efforts can’t be utilized as a treatment for others, you can still use your passion as a musician by volunteering in your community. You might offer to play at a retirement center, for sick children, or for patients in a mental health facility. Though you can’t offer treatment, you can still make patients smile and feel happy through your musical talent. Medical insurance only covers certain services, and mental health and counseling are often not under this umbrella. Thus, music therapy is typically uncovered as well. It’s a nationwide problem, so resources like community centers or volunteer musicians to address those needs are so important.

 

Closing your eyes and listening to a song that speaks to you has a way of taking you to a different place. Music can help a patient to get to that place and find peace. Playing music can encourage motor skills, neurological function, and problem solving. Understanding music helps to communicate and connect with others. Writing music is an outlet for emotion, as is listening to it. Music therapy is a viable career option for musicians who are passionate about music and its capabilities in psychology. Even if you’re just volunteering instead of choosing a music therapy career track, you’re still offering a service that’s been proven to be helpful for so many people in need.

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