WHAT ‘RIGHT-SIZING’ MEANS TO YOUR CAREER

by Keala Griffin, ResumeEdge.com Editor

In the wake of imminent layoffs and the newly created term of “right-sizing,” it is important to establish yourself as a much needed fixture for your organization. The company you work for should believe that they are unable to operate smoothly without you. Much like electricity, you want to be considered a necessary commodity.

It is imperative in this day and age that you remind the company of your talents and skills that you bring to the table. Everyone, at some point, operates on the premise of the WIIFM (what’s in it for me). Companies are asking that same question when they have to decide to retain you or your counterpart.

Here are a few key objectives you can incorporate into your repertoire to stay off the “right-sizing” radar:

Accentuate your skills: Management is inundated with meetings, reports and budget cuts. If you see a need that you can fill, utilizing your training and skills, approach your manager and ask to assist or take on a particular project. This will show management what you are capable of, setting you apart from your coworkers.

Become a leader: Spider-Man said it best, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Many people prefer to stay behind the scenes. However, often times, they are the first ones to be let go. Do what you can to step into any leadership roles.

Increase your knowledge: Take the time (on your own) to stay educated on your particular industry and your company. If there is an opportunity to attend any seminars or training programs, do so. The more you know the more you can bring to the table at the appropriate time.

Submit an action plan: It’s time to get aggressive. Develop an action plan with suggestions on how certain tasks can be done more efficiently. Or if there is a particular issue plaguing management, determine a problem resolution to that issue and present it. Include an updated resume and cover letter to complete this action plan, as you can remind management of your skills and experience. This shows management that you are thinking of the company and willing to go above and beyond the call of duty.

It has become apparent that these days, employees are vying for the same prize – retaining their position. Establishing yourself as a valuable asset will allow you to rise above the competition. Seize any opportunity to think outside the box and you will find that management will sit up and take notice.

OVERCOMING EMPLOYER OBJECTIONS TO AN ONLINE DEGREE

by Darlene Zambruski, ResumeEdge.com Managing Editor, CPRW, SME

As the world and economy changes so does the manner in which an individual completes educational requirements. To ensure that employers and interviewers give the same weight to an online degree as one received from a traditional school, include the following points on your resume or make mention of them during the interview process:

1. The Online School’s Accreditation. This, alone, should provide ample evidence to employers that the Bachelor’s or Master’s you received was not from a diploma mill, but from a legitimate institution of higher learning.

2. Quality of Education as Compared to a Traditional School: This can easily be proven by listing the coursework required for completion of a degree, including the required reading list for each course. These lists will most likely not differ from those in traditional schools. Mention can also be made that transcripts will be provided, upon request.

3. Does the Online School Have a Traditional Campus? If so, and classes are held there, mention that in the educational section. This lends credence to the school’s reputation.

4. School Instructors: Provide, if necessary, a listing of your instructors, their degrees, and the granting institutions.

5. Coursework Relevancy to Real World Practices: If your online coursework was specifically designed around ever-changing technology or the newest needs of an industry, be certain to mention that.

6. Are Graduates Recruited by Employers and Headhunters? If so, mention that in the educational section. Again, this lends credence to the school’s reputation.

7. Student or Employer Testimonials: If the online school provides these, include a link to that page in your resume.

One Last Point to Consider:

1. Showcase your multi-tasking skills in that you were able to attend school while continuing to hold a job. Employers are always impressed by self-starters that go the extra mile in educational and professional pursuits.

Working full-time while attending school online also gives employers the sense that you will remain at their company during new educational pursuits, rather than asking for time off.