Career Marketplace Blog

In this article from Brazen Life, Kelly Gurnett answers the questions, When Should You Work for Free?

Read an excerpt from the article below. Read Full Article

If you’ve ever had a potential employer/friend/fill-in-the-blank ask you to provide work free of charge, chances are you’ve been torn.

Should you do it as a gesture of good faith , to demonstrate your skills or to gain experience? Or should you put on your pro hat and refuse to share your skills with anyone unless they make it rain?

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In this article from U.S. News and World Report’s On Careers, Lindsay Olson explains How to Stay Hire-Worthy During a Career Break.

Read an excerpt from Olson’s article below. Read Full Article

Sabbatical, extended leave, taking time off to raise a family—whatever you call it, many people find themselves in a difficult position when the juggling act comes to a halt and they choose or need to leave the workforce.

But what about when the time comes to go back to work? Will you be an outdated fossil? Or can you still be competitive in the job market?

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In her blog for U.S. News and World Report, Miriam Salpeter reveals 7 Steps to Help You Land a Non-Profit Job.

Steps in Salpeter’s article include:

• Volunteer in organizations where you have a strong interest and your can create a real impact
• Meet People
• Get Involved in your target sector.

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In her article for U.S. News and World Report,  Karen Burns explains, How to Use the Holidays to Boost Your Career.

Below is an excerpt from Burn’s article. Read Full Article

It may sound calculating to leverage the holiday season to your professional advantage, but it’s smart, too.

The holidays are primo networking time. Most people are in a more jovial, giving mood. Many workplaces slow down a little this time of year, so you may have more mental space to think about ways to polish your resume and even set up informational interviews. And the end of the year is a natural time to reevaluate, refocus, and think strategically about your future.

If you decide to take advantage of this golden opportunity, whether to advance in the job you already have or find a new one, here are a few guidelines:

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Shine staff writer, Sarah McColl shows readers Low-risk ways to get a better job without jumping ship.

Below is an excerpt from McColl’s article. Read full article

With the job market the downer it is, there’s a certain amount of pressure to stay in your current position even if you’re not happy. But rather than fuming in your cubicle about your dissatisfaction, there are ways to empower yourself without sending out your resume. Here’s how to put out your feelers, amp up your skills, and meet the right people so when the time comes to move on, you’re more than ready.

GET SPECIFIC
The most low-risk way to think about your next career step is something you can even do at your desk: make a list. What is it about your job that you like? What aspects give you a sense of accomplishment? Which leave you feeling depleted? Are the hours great but the work soulless? Do you feel like you’re helping people but the pay barely covers your expenses? Like your co-workers but find you have to work individually more than you’d like? Get specific about where there’s room for improvement, so that when you see the qualities you’re looking for in the next position you’ll recognize them.

BUILD YOUR SKILL SET
Often employers will pay for or subsidize classes that will allow their employees to bring top-notch design, copy-editing or computer skills to the office. Think about certifications that might make you a more attractive candidate or certain skills you need to brush up on or areas where you could use some improvement (spreadsheets, anyone?). You’ll meet people in related fields, gain some extra confidence, and have a concrete skill set to add to your resume.

VOLUNTEER
Is there an organization doing great work that you’d love to be a part of? Start your work on a volunteer basis. You’ll get the inside scoop on job openings and first-hand insight into the inner-workings of the place. While you’re there, though, temporarily shelve your hopes of getting a job and focus on the work at hand. Ulterior motives can turn people off. Keep your eyes open and ears to the ground, be efficient and enthusiastic. Make a good impression. Even if a position doesn’t open up, you now have relevant experience to bring to a similar workplace and an extra recommendation in your pocket.

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In the  September 17, 2010 SimplyBlog article, Top 5 Reasons to Volunteer While Unemployed, the folks at Simply Hired explain how volunteer work can be beneficial as you look for a permanent position.

Below is an excerpt from the Simply Hired blog. Read full article here

Most people try to find full-time work after becoming unemployed. However, a job search can be a lengthy process which leaves many in a rut emotionally, physically, and professionally. A different approach involves finding a volunteer job. True, you won’t get paid. But there are many benefits to taking a volunteer opportunity while you’re looking for that full-time paid job.

Here are our Top 5 Reasons to Volunteer while Unemployed:

1. It’s fulfilling. Giving back to your community allows you to connect with those around you who are in need and work for a cause that you care about. Writing a donation check might not be an option right now, but you can still give your time.

2. Maintain camaraderie & stay active. Many people who find themselves with an extended “time off” miss getting out and interacting with a team. Volunteering gives you a place to go on a regular basis where you can work with others for a common cause.

3. Building skills or maintaining current ones. Volunteering can be a great way to learn new skills or maintain current skills if the opportunity is suited to your experience. Non-profits and other organizations that provide volunteer opportunities are often willing to train those who give their time. Picking up new skills will make you a more valuable employee.

Read On for Reasons 4 & 5