Government Contractor Jobs www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Cool Resume

2011-11-09T05:44:00.000-08:00

This is a guest post I am publishing by Carter Gibson on Google+

https://plus.google.com/u/0/115121555137256496805/posts

For those of you that don't know, I've spent most of my college career working in American University's Kogod Center for Career Development and have seen a lot of resumes. I know a lot of you are using Google to network, so let's talk about what makes one successful and explore the place different types of resumes have in various industries (two of my many are included for fun!).

Customize Resumes
Alright. Here's the deal. Just like one outfit won't work at every company, one resume won't either. Get a feel for a company's culture and job requirements and then modify an existing template. For instance, a nontraditional company would appreciate a creative resume while a financial firm absolutely would not. Beyond design choice, what you chose to highlight in your resume should significantly change as well. Choosing which projects to highlight will be vital to your success.

You have to get the right people to look at it
Are you frustrated that you keep applying for jobs, submitting that perfect resume over and over again, but getting no response? Well, that's because your resume isn't the most important part about your resume. Your resume means little to nothing if no one reads it. Networking is vital and even just getting that first foot into the door to ask someone to circulate your resume will pay off much better than constant submissions.

Get feedback
I get it. Your resume is like your baby and criticisms to it can be taken personally as an attack on your accomplishments. Try not to think of it that way. Shop it around to some of your friends in the industry and get feedback. It's so much better to have your friend catch a typo than your dream company.

What resume tips would you all give to someone? What do you think of the alternative resume?

Another Morning

2011-07-18T20:39:00.001-07:00

Have you had one of those days when you wake up, and think 'ugh, another xday' where x is any day of the week. It's troublesome when you've had time off, hit a brick wall, can't find another person to throw a resume at, have your resume formatted 17 different ways, and still found that at this point in your life, you might be thinking, 'Would you like fries with that?' wasn't such a bad gig after all. Don't despair! A lot of people are taking this 'off time' opportunity to go back to school -- which is fantastic.

I would highly encourage you, as a job seeker to upgrade your skills, what ever they may be. Perhaps you always wanted to be a nurse but you are stuck tech mode, or maybe you are a nurse who always dreamed of teaching. Maybe you are an engineer or architect who has always wanted to start a company that led expeditions in the wilderness of wherever. It can and should be done.

If I had my own life to do all over again, I'd probably choose a life long skill set that is transferable in any job market, but is technical in nature. But that's just me! Although I do like to get my hands dirty....maybe my life long obsession with growing mango trees indoors could -oh, wait (we interrupt this blog to bring you an important announcement).

Do you, like me, love the tangy, peppery smell of a ripe mango? Did you know that you can now have your very own mango tree, right INSIDE your house? It's true! If you call right now, operators are standing by to rush you your very own six pack of Mango seeds, a germination handbook, special recipe kit (straight from your kitchen cabinet) on how to fertilize your own Mango tree? A specialized book, "The care and feeding of Mango's" the follow on book "Mature Mango's" all in full color, with questions on every single detail! Live in Dubuque Iowa, yes you too can have a Mango Tree! Nebraska? You bet? Alaska?

Call now, as operators are standing by! Think of the lifetime of Mango's that you can have in you own home! You'll never have to pay outrageous store prices again!!! Sweet, tangy, Mango starter kit with all mentioned above has a retail value of $75.99 but today, it's been marked for FREE! For the first 500 callers only, pay only $8.99 shipping and handling!

Now back to our regular scheduled programming. On a serious note; if you are in IT, expand your skill set; there is a plethora of information online for free to expand your market. In fact if you are interested in expanding just about any part of your knowledge, I encourage you to take free classes online, lectures can be had at a myriad of places for free, including MIT, Harvard, and Yale. Study up, expand your knowledge, stay sharp, and you will likely find your new found experiences will lend themselves to you expanding your mind, your circle of friends, and associates.

And remember, if you are still fishing for a job, throw in your line at www.govtcontractorjobs.com and find out who is hiring in your area!

You don't really want to work, do you?

2010-10-07T05:47:00.000-07:00

I remember a few years ago, I got a call from Computer Sciences Corporation. I talked to the recruiter, we did a mini-interview, I answered technical questions for a screening process. We went a step further, and then she stopped. I asked about setting up the first phone interview, and she froze. She apologized and said she'd made a mistake. And I asked her what was wrong. Turns out that CSC, had at that time, a minimum 80% buzz word screening. I was at a 72%. She wasn't supposed to call me until after they had run through all the other candidates. I had somehow filtered to the top. It was then that I learned that when a job is posted at a large corporation, it's probably an excellent idea to tailor your resume, specific to their job requirements. Had I done my research and added my experience in a different way, I would have hit that job requirement at 99%. But because of the way I had my resume formatted at that time, I was a lowly 72% on buzz words. I was dismayed, at first, but learned a valuable lesson. Take time, read the requirements, and if you want the positions, tailor your resume, it works.

Now about what doesn't work: I'm thinking that B. really didn't want to work. I received, as I often do an unsolicited resume from a well meaning person. I always take the time to respond, even if briefly, and let them know that I do have over 1Million new jobs across the US and the Middle East. I always review their resume and generally send them a link with a list of jobs that they are qualified for in their region or city.

And for about the third time recently, I've kindly responded, let them know hey, here's a site; or sometimes I see that they may be looking for specific employment in Iraq or Afghanistan or the Middle East in general. And if I think that they could use additional exposure, I often ask them if they want me to list their resume as an example on my site.

The email I sent out said, hey take a look at this site: http://www.govtcontractorjobs.com I see you are in the Cleveland Area, and I found 214 jobs specific in your career field. I got a reply back, "Thanks, but if you know of someone personally hiring, please forward my resume to them, or just let me know." I replied back and said, ok I will, but already I can tell this person has no initiative on his part. I then e-mail and suggest that I could put his resume on my site, for exposure. He replies, well, ok, but I'd want all identifity material removed. I agree and tell him I can do that.

He then e-mails me back and says, well, I'd prefer if you make it a jpg or a tiff image so no one can plagiarize my resume.

Now, I laughed out loud. He sent, to me, his resume, unsolicited. And so I just wrote him back, and said, 'hey no problem, I won't bother putting your resume up there.'

However, I still am under the impression that people in our instant-society have forgotten, or perhaps never learned the key to actual job searching. Perhaps they are ignorant of the interview processes, and the need, these days to painstakingly input all data into a prospective employers database-all before you even get to find out if someone wants to even talk to you for a first interview.

Can you advance confidently?

2010-08-24T21:48:00.000-07:00

"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours." - Henry David Thoreau

If you find yourself, stumped, feeling bad, against a wall, or depressed about your current situation. Realize this: It can change, and change for the better. We need not look any further than the quote about by Mr. HD Thoreau. His simple statement holds truth in it.

A great example of this is in modern day would be Mr. Steven Speilberg. I will summarize the story I recently read about how he actually got his start in the movie industry. He took a Universal Studio tour, and jumped off the shuttle at an opportune moment. He would take the same tour every day dressed in a suit and tie, and always walk out and acknowledge the guard in the evening. He eventually found an empty office and took up residence in there, and even put his name on the directory. That, my friends, takes chutzpah. But his sole reason: He wanted to make movies. That is what his vision was, and he went confidently in the direction of his dreams. He used that in-roads to get his first student film in front of some directors.

If you are searching for a dream job, with the dream company. Make yourself known, go confidently in the direction of your dreams. If you are sitting around waiting for something to fall in your lap, you will most likely keep waiting. But if you take ACTION, and you do the things that will put you where you want to be. If you found the 'perfect company' have you researched it, can you tell them in an interview how you can solve issues? Can you identify ways, as non-employee of the company how you can go in and improve their bottom line? It's possible. Look at the company, look at their overall structure. Look at their competitors, study what sets them apart from their competitors. Put yourself out there, offer to work two weeks for free, or even a month.

There are over 1Million new jobs in the United States that were listed in the last seven days. I know unemployment is high, but being un-employed shouldn't be an option for you. Endeavor to live a life YOU imagine and YOU WILL MEET with success unexpected, in common hours!

Until next time.

One of those days

2010-03-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

Ever have one of those days? Sometimes, there are times it seems to me anyway, that I just can't catch a break. Today was one of those. I had signed up for a webinar/telecon to get what I thought would be vital information to my career. I had actually missed the last webinar/telecon because I had forgotten to put it on my calendar.

Lesson learned. This time around I signed up two weeks ahead of time. I put it in my calendar, I set an alert. I got the email. It was in a different time zone. No Problem! I still had two and a half hours to go. Just to be certain I set my ancillary clock on my Vista machine to show the time in PST time as well so when I hovered over my computer clock, I would verify I wouldn't be late.

I called in a few minutes before the call, as was requested. A few to me is code for more than 2 less than 10. I called in and got a 'gasp' live person, who asked where I was calling from. I told the lady what country I was calling from. I was then transferred to a man, who asked where I was calling from. I explained I was out of country and was calling in but my home state was Florida. "Oh, sorry," he says. "We aren't taking any more callers from Florida."

Honestly I am a little bit miffed. And then I realized that it's not necessary for me to listen to that particular webinar. Heck there is another one in a week. I can sign up for that one. I am,after all, interested. But, I know that this pitch is going to be relative to the spin of making a sale, a pitch that will lead to more information.

I know how this particular outfit operates. I have succumbed before. Here's the catch. They really do have solid information. They really are a marketing company which I will most likely use in the future. I have used them in the past. However, they do limit the number of people they work with.

Being blown off particularly in a job search bites. How many thousands upon thousands of times have you sent out resumes only to hear not a thing in return. I want to relate an experience. Last July I began pushing out resumes for a position. I knew the contract that I was working on was ending soon. I begin my search about six months in advance of contract end. I sent out easily 500 resumes. I followed up and my follow ups were eventually narrowed down to 5 interviews and three quality offers. I chose one. However the other 495 languished through varying stages of death. Follow ups sometimes-probably most times should be done every four weeks. It's like a marketing campaign of yourself. Persistence some times is key.

The inverse of persistence would have to be apathy. I know that most companies do not return your email nor a 'sorry it's not me, it's you' letter. I got one last week;The first week of March, for a job that applied for, as far as I can tell in my records... Sept 08. Perhaps persistence might have been key if I'd have been following up on all my job searches back then. On the other hand, maybe someone refreshed a database and it kicked out a generic email.

Market yourself, be persistent, and if you want to find out who's hiring now: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Action makes all the difference.

2010-02-07T22:57:00.000-08:00

The other day I went into a shop to have a vehicle serviced. The service was lackluster, the personalities within, just as enlightening. And then, I saw something that was posted near the ceiling of the office, and it wasn't just one. It was a whole series of quotes on action. And apparently these people whom had given empowerment to do their jobs, and given latitude with which to do them, were rather aloof of what hung above their heads.

Which brings me to a point. Before I headed to Germany, I had the pleasure of doing business with a small town auto dealership, in Temple, Texas: Garlyn Shelton Volkswagen. The receptionist was the most pleasant, the manager was the best auto manager I've ever dealt with, the salesman with whom I had to deal with was the best too. In fact there is no doubt in my mind that the level of service I received there will no doubt carry that auto dealership into the next 100 years. They were all empowered to do their jobs, and do it well, they were all smiling, and happy to help. And this was during the period of high un-employment. I was turning in a lease. The company was not making money on me. They had never serviced my vehicle. They had nothing financially to gain from me being there. They did however leave an impression; they took action. No one, complained. No one said, this isn't my job. Maya Angelou said, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." And I can tell you right now, those individuals at Garlyn Shelton, they made me feel welcome.

The biggest difference between these two shops. One had signs all over about taking action. One simply took action. They had no signs, they just did.

Are you actionable, or are you reactive? Napoleon Bonaparte said, " Take time to deliberate; but when the time for action arrives, stop thinking and go in." That's pretty sound advice. How can you decide when the time is right? Do you get an analysis-paralysis when you look at the job boards, when you think about what you could be doing instead? Do you say to yourself, "there is no way..."? Stop that destructive self behavior. Look forward, make a goal. Make an actionable task of getting where you want.

Charles Kettering said, "Believe and act as if it were impossible to fail." I remember watching a segment from Tony Robbins who twisted that slightly and said, "What could you accomplish if you knew, if you knew, you couldn't fail? You aren't allowed to; failure is NOT an option." And you know what that guy knows how to stir excitement in a person. He knows how to emotionally grip you and question yourself.

What actions would you take to get what you want? Let me re-phrase that, "What actions will you take to make certain you get where and what you want?" You see. It is all up to you. Whether its a playground island in the Caymans, a 12 foot bass boat, or a sixty foot yacht. Whether its a mansion, or a log cabin in the snowy woods. Those steps, the solitude the significant accomplishments in your life, they all start with one thing: Action.

Want to take action on a positive position with a company who is hiring today? http://www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Moral Compass, Ethics and The Truth

2010-01-31T23:57:00.000-08:00

I was giving time to think about the recent re-instatement of the Federal Reserve Chairman and the swearing in of the Treasury Secretary, and watched enflamed arguments of both sides on Huffington Post's blog. It made me reflect on the oaths I have taken in my life. The first oath I ever took was to uphold the Constitution of the United States, and swear to defend it with my life, against enemies both foreign and domestic. The latest oath I've taken was when I became a CISSP.

It states in the Code of Ethics Preamble:

Safety of the commonwealth, duty to our principals, and to each other requires that we adhere, and be seen to adhere, to the highest ethical standards of behavior.

Think that over for just a moment. Think about the massive banking fraud that took place. Think about the bail outs. It is pretty clear in my mind that the bankers, the CEO’s, the trader's, the SEC, the FED and many others didn't have moral character. One of the tenants of a publicly traded company is to build shareholder's wealth, but not to do so at the expense of integrity. Yet Bernanke was re-affirmed by the Senate, and Geithner was sworn in, though he failed to pay outstanding taxes from 2001 to 2004, until he was nomination was affirmed. In both cases there were at least 30 votes against it.

Wikipedia defines Moral character or character is an evaluation of a particular individual's moral qualities. The concept of character can imply a variety of attributes including the existence or lack of virtues such as integrity, courage, fortitude, honesty, and loyalty, or of good behaviors or habits.

If our leaders do not exhibit these qualities, will you stand up and be that leader? Will you be ethical, will you have moral courage? Will you exhibit the fortitude to continue to do the right thing? In business, in life, either way - you are judged by your honesty, your truthfulness and your character. Where has the moral compass of America turned and why? When did our leaders that we elect lose their integrity, their moral courage? What is your definition of ethics?

One of my friends, a teacher of ISC2's CISSP course gives this small talk about ethics and doesn't ask for your answer, he just presents the following

scenario:

Suppose you are in a position to make a huge sale for your company. In fact your entire livelihood depends on this one sale. If you don't make the sale, you are going to be axed, and you know this. It just so happens as you are commiserating over your final approach to the customer in three days, you happen by the local watering hole to contemplate. As fate would have it, your primary competitor is there, discussing the same account you are calling on. They are within earshot. Do you listen in, or do you ignore?

Then your competitor opens his briefcase, pulls out the file and opens it.

Leaves the table to hits the bathroom, then the appetizer buffet. Do you casually walk by, and look? Whip out your cell phone and take pictures, or do you ignore it entirely?

Your competitor eats his appetizers, finishes his drink and walks out the door. But he leaves his briefcase behind. It's been five minutes, ten minutes. Do you take the briefcase? Do you turn it in? Do you look inside to find out what's really there?

Now remember this is possibly your job. You don't make the sell you lose the position. What do you do? Don't answer.

Now, what do you do if you just found out that your daughter has medical issues and is going to need surgery and long term care for recovery, and if you lose your job, you lose your medical insurance; what do you do?

Your resume is the first thing a lot of human resources will see. Will your character show through? When you interview, will you be ethical? Will you tell the truth? When you present yourself will it be in the best light with no flaws, or will you, when asked for your greatest weakness, give the morally correct answer? Everyone has flaws, everyone makes mistakes. When you are in an interview, don’t hide the truth. I had once made a mistake by deleting critical log files; it ended up with me working extensive hours and recovering log files but everything was made whole again. When asked about it, I told the truth. It was a lesson learned. My employer appreciated the truthfulness, and future employers did too.

Truthfulness will only benefit you when or if you are given a security clearance. Your moral compass should be on the right path when you are interviewed. When you are asked by the investigator about incidents, tell the truth. If you hedge, they will know. They are experts at reading body language, and changes of inflection in your voice.

Wanting to land a position with a government contractor that may require a clearance? Take a look at www.govtcontractorjobs.com

We now have over 3,000 open direct hire positions listed.

The Steps to the Dance of Finding Employment

2010-01-24T06:21:00.000-08:00

How do you look for employment if you haven't had to in years, have no idea what to expect, don't really know and aren't really sure how to begin?

First things first. You have to measure your level of comfortability with your current position. Are you irreplaceable? Do you add value to your corporation? Are you a team player? On the other hand; have you committed years of your life to this corporation only to find out, loyalty doesn't always work both ways?

No need to fret. It can be done. And if you haven't done this in a while, it's not painful, but it does take focus; a concerted effort, and follow up.

Let's start with the basics: When is the last time you updated your resume?

If you aren't updating your resume quarterly you may be doing yourself a great disservice. It could be updated monthly for that matter. If you were asked to give your job description, right now, in writing, would it reflect what you do? What you were hired to do? Or has your job evolved since you were hired? Honestly keeping monthly updates is not out of the question, nor would it be out of the question to keep a journal. Why? When it's time for your annual review. It is a lot easier to summarize your accomplishments when you have them handy.

The next thing you might want to do is begin your search: Does the company you work for offer upward mobility? Does it have a possible lateral move that has more responsibility? In time those with greater responsibility are always paid for than those without responsibilities. If current employer is out of the question; where to look next?
Competitors. Do your market research. Who does your company compete with? Does it manufacture widgets? Look at other manufacturers? Are you in Accounts Receivable or Accounts Payable? Chances are 99/100 that most every company has that. Do you work in sales? That field alone is the life blood of every business. Information Technology. Depending on the size of the company it's either in house, or outsourced. Can you transfer your skill set to your companies natural competitors? If not competitors, what about different type of company all together? In manufacturing? Why not Insurance? In Insurance? Why not back-end outsourced IT support? Boiling this down, it's find the type of company you want to work for and come up with the reasons why. I want to work at ACME Widget company for the following reasons: 1. Straight 40 2. Benefits 3. Possible Overtime 4. Lifestyle 5. The are in the top 100 employers for the state. You get the picture: Find your perceived perfect employer and execute the necessary steps to obtain employment with them.

In the interim, practice interview questions. Get a book at your library. Ask a local SCORE office to interview you. These are all retired executives, they'd probably be happy to help. Just make an appointment, and ask.

Now study the company, if they are publicly traded, get as much information as you can on them. Google the company in Google News, setup a news filter that will get you information on the company. Have they produced press releases? Read them in detail. If the company you have chosen doesn't have that information readily. Find it. Whether it's through an acquaintance, a contact, the receptionist, or someone. Find out all the background on the company you want to work for.

Contact Human Resources, direct letter to the HR director or VP, write an excellent cover letter, introduce yourself. Enclose your resume. Let them know you will follow up in 7 business days. In seven business days, follow up. With a phone call, with another note. Fact is there may be a job coming open that hasn't made it to the company career site, nor to the newspapers. You can pre-empt this by getting your well written cover letter which points out how you can help solve company problems that you may have read about in the local business daily in the hands of HR before the job hits the paper. Personal notes, follow ups, thank you's they will set you apart from your competitor. If you have samples of your work, if applicable, attach it with the cover letter and resume. Been published? Have a book? Let them know of your expertise in your letter to them. Open the dialogue with the company.

Everyone one needs a backup plan. If Corporation A isn't the means to and end, pick up to seven, and be relentless, and be flexible. You should be an expert on the outside of the company before you ever step foot or have a letter sent. If seven is not enough, pick twenty-five, or whatever number. It is possible that whatever you set your mind to achieve with regards to employment, you can achieve. It may take time, flexibilty, and relentlessness, but in the words of Prime Minister Churchill, "Never, never, never, never give up."

A quick recap:
1. Get your Resume updated
2. Identify your ideal position, and ideal company
3. Research, research, research.
4. Make contact, with a detailed letter, and a targeted resume written specifically to the job requirements. This takes time but it will set you apart
5. Follow up. Written and electronic.
6. Follow up. Written and electronic. (yes, twice, just in case you need to).
Wash, Rinse, Repeat.

and Never, Never, Never, Never give up!

Find out who is hiring direct right now: www.govtcontratorjobs.com

Omne ignotum pro magnifico

2010-01-21T07:25:00.000-08:00

Everything unknown is taken for magnificent. - is how it translates from Latin. In this context, I just read about it in The Red Headed League, Chapter II, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. But what is interesting besides the quote is that in the paragraph following, one Mr. Jabez Wilson, who is a pawn broker, - the date is 1890.

The fascinating part, he is explaining how he runs a pawn shop, as the proprietor, he states, “I have a small pawnbroker's business at Coburg Square, near the City. It‟s not a very large affair, and of late years it has not done more than just give me a living. I used to be able to keep two assistants, but now I only keep one; and I would have a job to pay him but that he is willing to come for half wages so as to learn the business.”

And Sherlock Holmes says to him ..."You seem most fortunate in having an employé who comes under the full market price. It is not a common experience among employers in this age. I don't know that your assistant is not as remarkable as your advertisement.” [emphasis mine]

Now I wonder at this juncture, how common that the reduction of wages are. I know of cases where the employers have cut payroll, and salaries so that they keep everyone employed. As an employer that's going to be a tremendously tough call to make. If you lay off personnel, the morale starts to plummet. If you don't lay off you risk going out of business. A temporary solution: reduce salaries, to the point where you are still maintaining a profit, spread across the board. Is that a 10% wage cut, 20% wage cut? What percentage? If you are hemorrhaging cash, you have to staunch the flow somehow.

While wage cuts aren't a very popular option, they certainly fare better than being cut and having no wage whatsoever. As an employee you may not have input, on the other hand you may.

Let's theorize here: You work at a medium size business, there are 50 employees. You are one of those employees. The boss says, "I have to cut 10 people, or we can reduce everyone's pay 10%".

Well this isn't a socialist society, so if your employer made you choose, what would you do? Would you risk being one of the ten? Do you provide value to the business? Or would you rather not have to be made to make that choice? Such that, Everything unknown is taken for magnificent.

In a crunch? Want to know who is doing the hiring? Click here and search on over 1000 direct hire positions: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Whether you think you can....

2010-01-16T06:55:00.000-08:00

Henry Ford, made this statement once, "Whether you think you can or can't, you're probably right." There is a lot of truth in that simple statement.

Sometimes it's hard to be positive. Sometimes, no matter how much you shine, no matter how bright your idea, it gets shot down. However, I am a firm believer in being my own worst critic. When I've been knocked down, I use it as a time of reflection. It's a great time to look back and re-think through why an idea did not pan out. Why I overlooked something that I obviously missed.

For instance I thought why hasn't someone used the Netflix Model or the RedBox model for books, I mean look at Amazon, it's selling millions of books a year. And I bounced the idea off of a friend. He shot back immediately: Nook and Kindle. And in kind I responded; "But they are electronic, and you have to go buy one first". Then there is the whole cost involved with that.

But I immediately identified some obvious flaws in the system. Stock of books on hand; each time someone reads a book it gets worn a bit; how many reads till it wears out the book? Two, ten? What about spills and other things? Long story short, I decided, I have no idea why this wouldn't work, but a list of reasons why it wasn't something I'd pursue.

As it turns out, there is such a site/service: http://www.bookswim.com/value.html

And they have over 200,000 titles available. And a model based on single to multiple books....This may be perfect for the person who is an avid reader, and normally spends anywhere from $100-$300 per year on books from the local bookstore.

In this case I decided I can't do this. And H. Ford was right. Although I chose not to do it. I realized almost immediately and hours before I found the aforementioned bookswim site, it certainly wasn't going to work for me. Fact is I had realized that within a few moments. Someone else though, has figured it out and made a viable business. They had the thought and the 'can'.

However, I had no idea they have been out there since 2006. No one, has ever turned me onto them, no one has said, "Hey check out this site!" And I have a lot of friends and family who are voracious readers. Chances are they don't know of bookswim.com either - or I might have heard of them already.

But whether you can or you can't is telling. I decided I can't, and I won't eventually be a competitor to them. That's not a business I'm willing to pursue. I will and I am a competitor to large organizations in the job board field. I will grow govtcontractorjobs.com but I will only be for the niche of government contractors listed on the CCR.

I may have setbacks, I may have a bad day, we all do; but the I CAN will defeat the I can't every time. If you have had a setback, or you are looking for other employment. If you feel defeated, don't give up. You can get through this, you can bounce back. You can create your own destiny. You can look at the companies who are hiring, direct, today. www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Time to Give...

2010-01-14T04:13:00.000-08:00

There is always room for volunteering, giving blood, giving to those less fortunate. Our Neighbors to the South in Haiti, experienced a devastating earthquake. There are possibly thousands that were killed. Please consider a donation to the Red Cross by sending a donation of $10 by Texting 'Haiti' to 90999 or making a donation to 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish).

It's easy to forget how bad you think you have it when you look to those who have it worse than you do.

Be like Buck.

2010-01-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Do you ever remember reading Call of the Wild, by Jack London? Buck was a sheltered dog who when faced with the realities and harshness of the real world returned to his instincts. He became quite savage when the time required. It was set in the Yukon territory. If you don't have a copy or haven't read it in some time, I invite you to get it free: Call of the Wild

Buck was the protagonist in this story, and overcomes the difficulties thrown at him, including nearly starving, and savage attacks. Buck overcomes. It's a dog's story yes, but I ask you to draw a corollary. Could you equally gain as much, if you were to be like Buck? Persistence was the key to Buck pulling a sled that only ten other dogs could pull.

If you are looking for a position that betters your life, are you persistent? Are you diligently seeking what it is you want? Have you defined what exactly you want? I pose these questions to the reader, often. Consider this, practice does not make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect.

I know personally the effects of being laid off. I know personally the effect it can have on self esteem. However, no matter what happens, it is up to you to be like Buck. You are the only person who can give yourself a fighting chance.

Here's a short checklist of things to consider:

1. Have I decided what position I am going to pursue?

If you haven't I urge you to read go here and read this column.

2. Have I written out the plans I need to take me there?

It doesn't matter if you want to go to Hamburger University at McDonald's or if you want to go to Harvard, this is your plan and your dream.

3. Am I doing everything possible I can to make my plans happen?

Are you following up with employers? Are you studying employers facts and figures? Are you prepping yourself for the interview?

Be like Buck. Give yourself a fighting chance. Be determined. Feeling the call of the wild? Feel like Alaska may be in your future? Here is a list of jobs in Alaska who are hiring right now: Jobs in Alaska listed at www.govtcontractorjobs.com

What will you accept? What will you do?

2010-01-11T03:58:00.000-08:00

Let's say that for the sake of the current time, you accepted a position. It certainly wasn't your first choice. It pays half as much as the job you had before you were laid off. So in desperation, you jump at it. And they accept. And everything is just ok. You realize it is not a challenge to work here, you don't feel anymore productive, in fact the work is probably far beneath your skill level. But, on the other hand you have a job. And incidentally, you've been slogging through this job day-after-day. You realize it every time you force yourself to put on a happy face before you go to work.

Does this sound like you? I have read reports of persons who are itching to jump out of their current jobs as soon as the markets pick up. We are living through a long recession right now, and every day, I still get emails from places that are laying off employees. And employers, are being rather choosy right now, whether they hire in anticipation of expansion. Our own government has fallen behind on it's hiring of individuals. There are some 250,000 possible temporary positions that need to be filled. And in a lot of cases temporary seems to be the thing.

Some people wouldn't stake my hopes on permanent employment through a temporary position, but the fact remains there are a significant number of individuals who end up in their long term career that way. I've met persons who started as interns, later become employed at the location, and have been know to climb the corporate ladder all the way to the board of directors.

So how do you do your best? How do you continue to thrive in an less-than-challenging environment? My friends, attitude goes a long long way. It's hard to be grateful when you feel underwhelmed. I understand that. However I submit to you my friends, that positive thinking is in order here. This goes back to the core root of what drives you. If you can't be happy doing a job that you feel is less than your skill set, and do it gladly, how will you handle a job that will be pushing the boundaries of your skill set? Will you do it gladly or will you become overwhelmed with stress?

Here are a few ideas for handling underwhelming positions:

1. Master everything about the position.

Become the expert that everyone looks to. Are you on a running a production line? Take the time to deduce the nuances of the position, what everyone does and how it all fits together, become the puzzle solver. Employed at a position doing something that 'you could do in your sleep'? Don't rest on your laurels. Refresh everything you know, can you streamline a process, can you code something that can be re-used, can you automate tasks that may save your company money and time? Look at all angles, and take action

2. Face each day knowing that what you are doing improves the lives of those around you.

Believe it or not, your co-workers and your boss become dependent on you. If you slack off, you are only putting more work on others. If you can finish your task, and help ease the load of others, you show leadership potential. You become the expert. While just knowing that you help others may not be enough motivation for you. Making yourself outstanding will.

3. Strive harder.

If you mop a floor, or run a board. Use the Bobcat Scout Credo: "Do Your Best". It's a rather simple statement, that is taught to bobcats, those youngest of scouts, just out of kindergarten. Do Your Best. If you aren't doing your best, only you know. Don't cheat yourself of opportunities to rise to the occasion. Don't cheat others from seeing your leadership potential. Don't cheat the team, or the boss. Do Your Best

While the current position you may be in may offer potential for upward mobility, it may also hinder you from upward mobility. If you find yourself becoming stuck in a quagmire of sorts. Make time, communicate with your boss, let them know you'd like more challenges. Keep a score card, sometimes bosses forget. If you've shown your worth, tell them you'd like more, and show them how and where you excelled. If you decide you are ready to take your skills further and to other places; find your next career here: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Simple. Employment. Solutions.

Make No Small Plans...get the how!

2010-01-07T03:27:00.000-08:00

“Make no small plans; they have no magic to stir your blood to action. Make big plans, aim high in work and hope.” - Daniel Burnham

What are your plan? What are your dreams? What are your expectations? How are you going to plan your expectations to fulfill your dreams. Set your goals lofty, my friends. And write them down. Check them daily. Write them, down, don't just type them. Go, get a piece of paper, scrap, notebook, ledger, journal, edge of a newspaper, a brown paper bag. Write down your goal. Then every day, write down your goal. That's right, every day. As you realize your writings you will find the steps you need to succeed daily. It -the results; becomes self fulfilling prophecy. You can do, you can achieve, you can venture forth.

You can land a new job, you can find the perfect position. Create it. Write it down, be specific, make that a part of your goal. HOW you get there. How is the fuel for the fire which ignites you to do the things that make all things possible. How is actionable.

How are you going to differentiate yourself from other candidates? How are you going to show your knowledge of the company when you go into an interview? How are you going to make certain that you are the candidate they select? How are you going to follow up? How are you going to be specific in the interview questions. How are you going to answer.

Make big plans, and make them detailed. Aim high, in work and hope. For hope is not lost on those with the how. Hope is not wishing. Hope is preparing and executing with staccato like emphasis. Make your goals actionable. Find yourself getting to the next rung.

Wondering who's hiring and how your going to execute those plans at the new company? www.govtcontractorjobs.com

What two years would bring....

2010-01-04T00:21:00.000-08:00

On January 4th, 2008 The government reported that the nation's jobless rate hit 5 percent in December 2007, a two-year high, fanning recession fears. Well my friends, that number of jobless is doubled, in two years, it currently stands at 10%. Fifteen Million, Four Hundred Thousand people without jobs.

Although Wall Street and Big Banks were bailed out there were still a great many number laid off. Bankers, analysts, IT, administrative, right down to the cleaners. It's tough to keep your chin up when you have been smacked over the head with a proverbial shovel. To add insult to injury, particularly if you've been laid off, there is at times a stigma associated with that moniker. And I'll be frank, if you've have been laid off, it can be a blow to your self esteem.

Here are some suggestions on getting back up on that horse and riding again;

1. Stop Procrastinating. It is a waste of your valuable time. You are a worthy person who has a lot of experience, you are responsible and in control. Things happen for those who are at the crossroads of preparation and opportunity.- Some refer to that as luck.

2. Take a half hour to yourself each day. Reflect on positive thoughts. Read uplifting messages. Whether it's Guideposts or Reader's Digest or positive quotations found on the Internet, read something, because when it all boils down, only YOU can motivate yourself.

3. Excercise. You are never too old to start something. Stretch, Yoga, Pilates, Walking. Wondering where to get started? www.sparkpeople.com is a great place that's free. So is www.fitness.gov.

4.Make a plan. This goes into conjunction with #1. I wrote the other day about making a list of possibilities. My friends, your possibilities are limited only by your imagination. Set goals, write them down. Take the steps toward those goals and plans.

5. Find out who is hiring right now. Chances are, it's a government contractor who has won a contract to provide valuable services to the government. Check out some of them hiring today. No recruiters, no hopefully I'll get to talk to someone, it's the direct red line to those who are hiring. Some are small businesses others are International Conglomerates. www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Have a fantastic week, because, my friends, it's Monday. Friday is a short 40 hour work week away. Simple. Employment. Solutions. Find them here: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Today in History

2010-01-03T00:32:00.000-08:00

Today, in the history of our nation, in 1959 Alaska, became the 49th state. So hat's off to you Alaska. I've been to Alaska, once or twice, but never made it out of the airport. I will forever remember the polar bear that is in the airport though. I was able to go outside and view Mt. McKinley though. And it was quite frigid. There was little humidity in the air, but the bite that nature took when you breathed, whew!

When I was in the service, the Army sold their fleet of hovercraft to the state of Alaska. One of my colleagues asked me if I would like to move up and do maintenance on the craft. I thought about it, but I just don't like cold weather too much. Now mind you, I loved the idea of going up there. Fact is I have friends who live there now, and have had friends who worked on the boats, and made a lot of money. I've had an uncle by marriage that worked on 'the slope' back in the seventies, and made a bit of money. I've had friends that moved up there specifically so they could become residents and share in the annual oil wealth tax rebate thingamabob the state does each year.

All this leads me to the conclusion of employment. Yes, there are canneries, and fisheries, and retail, and guess what else, that's right government contractors. In fact if you would like, if you request it, personally by emailing me, clint.s.miller@govtcontractorjobs.com I will email you the entire list of government contractors for the state of Alaska.

Want to know where else they are hiring: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Career Crumbles.wmv

2010-01-02T08:54:00.001-08:00

Feeling like career building has collapsed? We know how to help you overcome this situation. Build rock solid footing with employment as a government contractor. Visit us at www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Simple. Employment. Solutions.

Its 2010 Make a List of Possibilities

2010-01-01T01:49:00.000-08:00

It is now Twenty-ten. What are you doing right now to improve your life? I made a conscientious decision late last year to eat in moderation, exercise at least five days a week, and lose 2 pounds per week. It' working! I can tell you that I have made one resolution on New Years, over than 10 years ago, and it's the only that has stuck. I had resolved, to never make another resolution on New Years. -It's worked.

Speaking of working, have you found yourself in the crunch last year? Are you one of the of the 15.4 million persons whom is getting a chance to view their lives from another angle? I don't say that as a slight to those who are unemployed. Every single thing in our lives, I believe, happens for a reason. Not all reasons are good, that I know, however they are not all bad either. Lay-Offs drain you. Mentally, emotionally, financially. They deprive a working man or woman of that feeling of security endorsed by a paycheck.

If you find yourself with that time on you hands; may I suggest a solution? Take a full 40 hours, in solitude. I want you to evaluate yourself. I want you to think about for the first ten hours, how you felt the last full year of employment. Were you elated, did you enjoy your position? Did you absolutely love what you were doing? In contrast were you dis-satisfied? Take that ten hours and write down the longest pro/con list about the job you were doing the last full year. List it all. From the coffee to the benefits.

Now for the second ten hours, I want you to focus on things that you've always wanted to do: accountant, cowboy, scientist, astronaut, chef, whatever. Wanted to always run a burger joint? Wanted the stress-less job of being a people greeter at Wal-Mart? Wanted to hike the Appalachian trail ? Visit all fifty states? Whatever it is is I want you to make of list of things in those then hours that you have ALWAYS wanted to do. Make it as outlandish as you want.

Now for the third ten hour set, I want you to take two hours of that ten to pick your top four favorite items. If a genie appeared and said, "Pick four wishes, and they have to be on that list." ; those are the four I want you to pick.

Focus on four items from the list you made in the second ten hours. Now for the next eight hours, I want you to spend two hours researching everything you can about those possible options. Do you have the education? Is there a commiserate level of income? Is it a new skill? Do you possess current skills be transferred to these new possibilities?

You have a final ten hours, if you've broken this up like a normal work week, this would be toward the end of your fourth day, your Thursday, at three. This is your opportunity moment.

I want you to focus on those four positions, and weigh the possibilities. I want you to spend 5 hours focusing on the number one item, reading, researching, finding whether you really want to change what you are doing. Can you put this plan in motion? It depends. Can you learn that new 'skill' while working another job? Can you find a part-time position working in the new position. Do you want to stay in the same field you were? Can you make any improvements on your knowledge level?

This should give you some idea, of what to do next. And it should leave you feeling hopeful, as well. The next thing I'd suggest if you have time on your hands. Volunteer. Find a school, library, soup kitchen, rotary club, or something. Give back to your community. Volunteer in the line of work which you want to enter. If it is the occupation you left and you have skills, offer those skills to the community. Offer your services in your expertise field, for free to the local museum. Offer to work for free at the new occupation, so you learn how.

This is the time to engage your mind, and learn. Want to learn whose hiring now: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Neglect, Recovery, Jobs Listing, Who is Hiring

2009-12-30T21:26:00.000-08:00

I have neglected to update this blog for nearly a year; my intent was to continue to pass along information on who is hiring and where; and I I still have that! I just realized that, like a horrible resolution, I have continued to chow down on chocolate while endeavoring to lose that 50 lbs!

Ok, enough of the drivel! What we need are solutions. The solution is to get out there, and make a difference. In yourself, in you community, in the way you present yourself, and how you network.

Facebook may be a lot of fun, but I don't think I've read anywhere that a FB friend landed a position. What to do? Back to the ground rules.

1. Have you updated your resume?
2. Have you had your resume written/reviewed-rewritten by a professional resume writer?
3. Do you have anywhere between $100 - $500 you want to spend on resume updating? No! Me either.
4. Libraries tend to have THE most outdated resume examples.
5. Looking for a review? For the first 10 People who sign up to follow this blog will win!
I will have a resume writer review your resume and give a completed example back.

Now onto the job listings:

What do we have today?
3 .Net positions in Huntsville
Tech/Proposal Writer Silver Springs MD
Systems Analyst Automated Operations
Help Desk - Golden, CO
Software Developer - Durham, NC
Financial Analyst, Washington DC
Project Manager - Telecommute!
Program Management - Washington Navy Yard
Network Engineer- Virginia Beach VA

Ok, that's a few...want to get more, and find out who is doing the hiring where?

www.govtcontractorjobs.com or www.govtcontractingjobs.com

Bing: government contractor jobs Google: government contractor jobs

Some Time Off & H1B

2009-01-26T15:58:00.000-08:00

I was given the opportunity to take off the next three weeks. But alas, it appears my work here, is never done. I'm at the house, and there are fifty things I NEED to do!

However, like other goals, I made a list, and assigned a priority. And to put business acumen into place, I created a matrix, and weighted the assigned tasks. The delta - all tasks to be completed in 21 days. Ok. Not really. I made a list, but you could certainly overdo something as simple as a list. It's easy to get carried away making plans without executing them. That happens to people all the time - a bit of analysis paralysis.

Now, there are things I cannot-rather am better served by outsourcing. I can lay tile, but it'd be better if I got someone else to do the detail work. Same goes with caulking, painting, and finish carpentry. So, I will use the skills of someone else, and pay for that privilege. I will receive excellent service, and quality work, for a price I am willing to pay.

This brings me to outsourcing, or for that matter insourcing via H1B Visas. Just last week I met a gentleman on an international flight. We were seat mates for the better part of -almost 18 hours! This gentleman was an engineer, who went on to get his Masters. He is making plans on getting his MBA. He is stellar in his field, outshining many of his co-workers. So much so, he is being recruited directly from a competitor.

I asked him a question I thought pertinent: Did he ever face adversity or snide comments or rudeness because he was here on an H1B? "Never" he said, "And I get asked that a lot from people." And I related that in the IT field, that there seemed to be a stigma associated with those whom came to the US and worked on an H1B.

Two days ago in Computer World there was a story on Microsoft's layoffs, and a congressman running an inquiry into whether or not Microsoft was laying off American workers at the expense of keeping H1B workers. Microsoft didn't answer the inquiry as of this writing. I bring this point up for one reason. In the many comments that people made almost all talked derrogitorily toward the H1B Visa holders, and that they were staying because they were paid less.

Now, the gentlemen I met who is an engineer related to me his salary and his bonus structure; it was apparent to me that he was being paid equally with what his American co-workers were being paid. Now I'm not saying that all companies pay the same, nor if there are inequalities in pay between H1B and American employees. I don't have data on either. I'm probably certain that most complainers aren't certain of it either. In fact they may be confusing offshoring with H1B's. Be it known that there is obviously a defecit for well trained, educated employees. So much so that Dr. Eric Schmidt (Google), and Steve Balmer (Microsoft) both are lobbying congress to enable more H1B's in the future, the current number of around 65,000 per year is not nearly enough.- according to the report I read in Computer World.

This gentlemen told me he is attempting to get his green card, but it is a long drawn out process. He also said, he opposed amnesty for those immigrants who were here illegally. He had to pay the price and time for coming here. I concurred, but told him, he wouldn't have to worry about any of them taking his position. He is highly skilled, he has his Bachelors, his Masters, and will be knocking out his MBA within seven years.

This gentlemen is a force to be reckoned with. Not only is he adept, he is business savvy, he has sales skills, and an easy manner. He is the top of his game. He strives and acheives; and we all could take a lesson from this man-set goals; educational goals, business goals, personal goals. I have no doubt in my mind that Mr. Mathews will acheive everything he sets out to do.

Whether or not H1B's get paid more, or less, or are thought to be taking jobs from American's, I can't make any general statements. Let it known, that if someone does what needs to be done, and strives at their very best, and continues their education, and makes rash and tough decisions that are sometime uncomfortable to make; they will either be employed or employ others.

Duck, Duck, Duck, Duck, Goose!

2009-01-21T19:58:00.000-08:00

Do you remember playing that game when you were a kid? Our rules were, everyone stood in a circle, facing each other, and the 'runner' named duck, duck, duck, until they tapped the 'goose' and ran; hoping beyond hope, that they couldn't be caught by the goose. And the 'goose' that got tapped, runs as fast as they can to catch the goose who tapped them. It's a fun game. But when you are looking for a job, it's not fun to play games.

Ever put resumes out to a bunch of companies, and feel like you were playing duck, duck, goose? I mean after all you initiated contact, through a big board, or possible a recruiter off of a big board. And you are thinking, you know, after the initial phone screen from the recruiter of 'King Recruiters' they must be looking out for you. They immediately call your references, and they call you back, twice, and ask you to tweak your resume. And you comply both times. Then you find out when they submit it, (along with fifteen to fifty others) you'll 'fit in' or 'stand out' or whatever nomenclature they are throwing around.

Now I'm not knocking recruiters, there are some fine ones out there that do a fantastic job. Others are merely e-mail and resume harvesters. And I've dealt with both. The best recruiters I ever worked for were ones I initiated contact to, and they worked for a company that I was courting. Yes, almost like a date! The company I wanted a job with was the highest paying contractor, and they had excellent benefits. Now it didn't mean that they were the best managed, nor most profitable. But it didn't matter to me. I was after the two big factors for myself: higher pay, and excellent health benefits.

So, what happened? I initiated contact with the recruiter of the company. I did my research, and found out their title and position. I sent an e-mail with a cover letter. I let the recruiter know; I understand you may not be hiring now, however, I would like to be considered for a position within your company if one becomes available in my area of expertise.

Well, the recruiter emailed me back, and let me know they weren't hiring, but he would keep my resume, and follow up with me. About a month later, I followed up with another e-mail to let him know I was still interested in working for the company. There was no response, but that was ok. I followed up the next month, and let him know I was still interested in working for the company. No response....thirty days goes by, and low and behold, I get an e-mail.

And you know what I did, I trashed it. I had been contacted that particular week by six different recruiters, on the phone, and in my e-mail. Those recruiters were third party recruiters whom had 'courted' me. So, you know what he did next, he called me the next day and left a voice mail. He asked, are you still interested in working for our company. Ah! They called me!

I was ecstatic! I called him back, I got voice mail. He e-mailed me a response; I thought it was another recruiter again; I had set up mail rules to 'delete such spam'. He called me, left a message, I called back left a message; and if it were not for the diligence of both parties involved I wouldn't have gotten a position I had requested three months earlier.

When I did get the first phone screen, I let him know; I had been hounded relentlessly from a set of recruiters, and wasn't blatantly ignoring his e-mail. Ultimately, I got the position, and moved to that company, post haste.

I learned a lesson:

1. Don't setup generic rules that will prevent you from getting e-mail you want.

2. I found that the best way to get hired was to contact the company I wanted to work for, and pursue them.

3. Follow up --as many times as it takes.

4. Be courteous. Return calls, and return e-mails.

Still looking for that perfect company who is hiring now AND has benefits you want? http://www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Resolution Check -with apologies to the Beatles

2009-01-19T21:28:00.000-08:00

"You say you want a resolution..." and for those of us reading those abridged lyrics. we know the rest, and the catchy tune. "Well you know. We all want to change the world."

Do you want to change the world? Are you as determined today, Tuesday, January 20th as you were when you took your position? Remember to stay upbeat. Make goals. Strive for perfection.

Today, is the inauguration of our 44th president, the first black president in america. Barack Hussein Obama II will take the oath of office, and begin work immediately, according to CNN reports, and will forgo the viewing of the parade. I know that he is attempting to make an impression on the world that he is a leader. However, as such, pundits and loudmouths will ridicule this moment in history, because he did not make time for a parade in his honor.

Today will forever be a day that is remembered in our history. Like prior generations of Dec 7, 1941, and the assassinations of JFK,RFK,and MLK;and our generations' 9/11, this will be a where were you that moment?

Hope and Change were the two words that drove Mr. Obama to the white house. Hope and Change.

Dwell on that for just a moment. There is something quite tranquil and calming in those two words, and in that order.

If you reversed the order of those two words it would tantamount to chaos; Change and Hope. Change things and Hope for the best!

But with Hope and Change, persons will begin to see our leader taking the intiative, and millions will follow, and take those steps to the path of change.

There will be millions of jobs created. And you can find out who is hiring now: www.govtcontractrjobs.com

247,835 Layoffs Since Nov 2008

2009-01-18T00:00:00.001-08:00

Were you one of these persons? Have you ever been one of those laid off? I know that feeling of exasperation, and upset. I have felt my own stomach get sick when I was let go in the past. The shocking reality is harsh, to say the least. It is what I would consider an ultimate rejection. - It's worse than being dumped by that pretty girl in high school, right before the prom.

What do you do to get past this? Why me?

First, understand that this may not be in response to your performance. However, if you have a niggling of a feeling that it may be, you should take stock of yourself. If you have ever had to rate yourself for a performance review, how did you do it? Did you give yourself accolades? Be honest with yourself. Did you write the right thing did you assess your strengths as well as your weaknesses? How was your attitude toward co-workers? Your position? The company you work for?

Secondly, remember the tenets of capitalism. The outset of this: It is the CEO's responsibility to a corporation and it's shareholder's to increase shareholder's wealth. Shedding jobs is tough to do. Don't take this personally, its capitalism. Now, what can you do to reposition yourself for the upward momentum? What is your current skill set, with this downtime on your hands, can you learn a new skill? Does this setback qualify you to get free training? It may. See your HR Department and State Employment Services. I know that Georgia used to offer free IT training. I believe the state of California does too. I remember seeing in the news that there were factory workers in Michigan who were retrained as Registered Nurses.

Third, how do you cope? This is a great time to review some of the hints from earlier posts; I encourage you to read them. Set up a regular schedule. Stick to it, get out of the house. Make the library your office.

Fourth, find out who is hiring. There is constant doom and gloom in the world, that is what makes news. It's like driving past a car accident. You probably really don't want to see the potential blood and gore, but your curiosity makes you slow down and view it, just like everyone else. I know that there have been layoffs, which amount to the size of a medium size city, but remember there are people hiring. Thousands of positions, hundreds of locations. In all fifty states.

As Casey Kasem used to say on America's top 40, "Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars!"

Check out some jobs now: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Why would I want to work for a government contractor?

2009-01-16T10:11:00.000-08:00

Generally you will find that a government contractor, whether they are in the top 100, or the bottom 10,000 are going to be a more stable employer. In fact on one of the current contractors is hiring over 200 for entry level administrative positions. The caveat: They have to pay better than the prevailing wage. For instance in Ft. Wainwright, Alaska, the position for admin paid $15.75 per hour. That's $32,760 to be an admin. Now I don't know what the cost of living is at Ft. Wainwright, but that's what I'd consider decent pay; it was more than I made at my first job as a systems administrator! On top of that nice salary, there are ten holidays, plus vacation, and benefits!

Not a bad starting job for someone. Another contractor is offering a position as CIO in Qatar. Now I have no idea what the salary is, but I am quite certain that it will pay well into the six figure range. Again, it's stable employment from entry level to CXO. Salary, benefits, vacation, and in this case, world travel!

Another nice thing about being in the employ of a government contractor is the opportunity to move within the corporation. Most corporations know that an employee is an investment; if you are not happy, get happy! Ask for a career change, even if it's lateral. Companies, large and small want to keep their employees long term. I was talking with the president of a small contractor this week, and he said, "We want someone who wants a long term career, not a job hopper, we want someone to stick with us." And his company offers 401K, education and supplements to health insurance. A nice place. One of the large contractors I worked for was upfront with me. My manger told me, this position will have no upward momentum, but when you are ready, we can move you up in the company, just at a different location. They all want to keep good employees!

Find your long-term career with stable employment today! http://www.govtcontractorjobs.com

The Offer Letter – Read the Fine Print

2009-01-14T21:25:00.000-08:00

Dear “Name”, the company of XYZ is pleased to make a formal offer of employment through this letter….please sign and return, as this offer is valid for x days.

It feels like winning the lottery! Ok, well maybe not; I mean after all, I have never won the lottery, however I have won $10 on a scratch off ticket, and that was pretty euphoric. That was a great return, I immediately pocketed my winnings.

Whoa! An actual offer! I was given an offer for a position on Italy some years ago. It was in Naples, and I was excited. As I recall the salary was on the lower end of my range at the time, but it was tax free. And there was roughly up to a 50% housing allowance. The caveat, which was spelled out in the offer letter gave a sum of up to a certain amount. My immediate thoughts were to rent a small apartment, and pocket the difference – The fine print, spelled out in the offer letter, I had skimmed over – that housing allowance was based on whatever the lease ended up being up to that maximum amount; there was no ‘pocketing the difference’. Ultimately I didn’t take the position.

But remember to read the offer letter carefully. Find out what the ‘benefits’ of a corporation are before you accept. I was given an offer letter from another company once, and the salary figure was six figures! I was ecstatic. And then I found out that the health benefits for my salary were going to be 10% of the salary. I declined that offer respectfully.

I have accepted offers without doing the research, because frankly, desperate times sometimes call for desperate measures. I left the employ of a fantastic corporation to take a position somewhere else. The new company offered more money, but the benefits were atrocious. I was quickly disillusioned.

My suggestion upon the offer is to make certain that you read the fine print; ask for information regarding the benefits, and read those as well. Determine what is right for you and your family.

Want to know who is hiring right now, and who offers benefits? www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Recession Proof Yourself - Employment is at 93%!

2009-01-10T23:16:00.001-08:00

Well, the new un-employment figures are in- (www.bls.gov) the figure now stands at 7.2%!!! So let's focus on the BAD NEWS. That means for every 100 employable people there are roughly only 93 employed! What an outrage! 93% employment. Egad! Indeed!

This reminds me of a story I heard long ago.-
There once was an old man who sold hot dogs on a street corner. He was hard of hearing so he had no radio. He also had vision problems, so he read no newspapers. But he sold really good hot dogs.
He sold so many hot dogs that he soon had to increase his meat and bun orders. He bought a bigger grill to take care of his growing enterprise. Business was so good he needed assistance so he asked his son to come home from college to help out.
Upon arriving home from school his son became somewhat alarmed: "Dad, haven't you been listening to the radio or reading the newspaper? The economic news is terrible. People are cutting back; others are losing their jobs. This is no time to be spending money on expansion--we’re heading into a depression.”
The father thought to himself, "Well, my son's been to college. He’s much more educated than I am. He reads the newspaper and he listens to the radio. I guess he would know."
So the father cut down his meat and bun orders, took down his signs, and only ordered what he thought he absolutely needed. Because he kept running out of food, many of his customers became frustrated and stopped buying from him. As a result, his hot dog sales plummeted. Almost overnight he was struggling to stay in business.
Within a few months he had sold off his remaining equipment and one day he simply closed down his stand. Upon returning home the last day of work, the father called his son and remarked, "You were right, we are in the middle of a great depression."

So, how do you recession proof yourself?

1. Do Your Best. (I remember this from scouting). Not your second best not sort of kind of almost there. Do. Your. Best.
2. Take on more opportunity.
3. Bring fresh ideas, but remember: management may frown on ‘your way’. If nature abhors a vacuum, it has been observed that some entrenched management abhors change.
4. Continue to learn. Libraries are free.
5. Get a mentor. Don’t have one? Start exercising your opportunity to meet people through civic functions.
6. Be aggressive. Set yourself apart from your co-workers. Go above and beyond, see 1.
7. If you are somehow caught in a downward spiral. Step away from the bad news focus on what is good. And Do Your Best.

Want to know who is hiring now? www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

2009-01-10T03:24:00.000-08:00

What if you have been sending out your résumé, and the perfect position comes along....at three separate employers? Now what do you do? How do you make that 'final' decision?

Step back and look at each position with respect to your current position. Does it offer upward mobility? Is the company sound? Is the position going to last? What are the benefits of each company?

How do you juggle the multiple opportunities? Can you save face? Here's an idea. Be up front with each employer. Let them know you'd like to have a week to consider the position.

Now is the time to do as Ben Franklin so you can make the Ben Franklins! Whenever old Ben was faced with a dilemma he'd do the most logical thing. He'd take a piece of paper and draw a line down the middle, on the left he'd right Pro's on the right, he'd write Con's. And then he would systematically line out the Pro and Con of each situation. When he was done writing down each pro and each con, he'd count them. If the pro's outnumber the con's then he'd do that, if it was the opposite he would not take the risk.

So take those opportunities, and write down the pro and con of each position offered. Take into consideration all aspects. Farther commute, shorter commute, more money, less money but more health benefits? Which one is the best factor for you? Write them down.

Pro Con

Count them all. Which one outweighs the other? Compare positions....Then begin your new career.

Wonder whose hiring right now? http://www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Contacts. Give before you ask.

2009-01-08T04:19:00.000-08:00

Making contacts is an important part of your life. Developing relationships are important. And they are most important when you've give your contacts an edge. It's a simple rule. Do unto others.

How can you make these contacts; become involved. Establish professional relationships. Support these relationships. Know of someone who's part time hobby is web builder? Know another contact who is a small businessman, who needs those types of services? This is a time to make an introduction. Invite them out for a beer; let them get to know each other. And continue to stay involved with both people, making the assertion that they struck some type of deal- Or even if they didn’t.

Later ask for a referral from either or both, if it suits your needs. This isn't like calling favors, but if you continue to be an active relationship builder, your contemporaries will realize when you need introductions as well.

Give freely, expect nothing in return. Are you a member of a social organization? This might be the time to join one. If you are under 35 the Jaycees is a great place to socialize professionally. If you are over 35, the Rotarians are a worthy organization worth joining for those same reasons. There are literally hundreds of social groups that you can belong to and become involved in. Volunteer. Volunteer. Volunteer. - Join a bowling league, or a darts league. Do something which gets you interaction with others outside the normal four walls of your organization. If you have a group internal to your organization, get to know other people in other organizations and become a cross organizational group.

Make overtures, get to know people, expand your network outside your current employer. Why? Because if the chips fall where they may, and one lands in your department, it's always great to contact old colleagues, but if they aren't networked you may not have the necessary contacts outside of your current employer to expand your horizons, if the need arises.

Ask for referrals, it works in sales, it works in employment. Referrals and letters of introduction from others will get you further than any other cold calling method. If you have the opportunity to influence decision makers, make that call, offer the letter of introduction for those that need it.

Need to make contact with employers who are hiring now: http://www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Six More Weeks of Winter Weather and Unemployment!

2009-01-07T05:38:00.000-08:00

Say it isn't so Punxsutawney Phil!

We're just under a month away from Groundhog Day. But if you are un-employed, you might find yourself waking up every single day for the next six weeks, just like it was for Phil Connors, Bill Murray's character, in Groundhog Day. Doing the same old thing, but what Phil learned was that he could improve himself (after a while). If you are un-employed you can too.

Un-employment sucks! There are no if, ands, nor buts. It sucks, and it can be emotionally draining. You've applied to every Dice, Monster, and Career Builder job in the great 150 Mile area. And for the last six weeks they still have the same job posted! Doh! You are a perfect fit for the "name title/position at company"! And that recent e-mail from the recruiter from Dice who has a $14.70 per hour helpdesk position part time, third shift in Philadelphia is starting to look good!

Now you are thinking, maybe a move isn't a bad thing, but for pity sake, all you begin to want is a freaking job!

How's your resume?

How are your contacts?

What are you doing with your day?

Have you found yourself by the third week of un-employment sitting on the couch, and becoming tuned into Days of our Lives? It can happen! (Well, that hasn't happened to me, but it could happen).

A few suggestions.

1. Go to the Library - get out of your house, make it an active routine. (and it'll be a money saver tip below)

2. Write down the focus of your job search - What do you really want?

Quick Pop Quiz - which of these is considered to be the correct way one should write down their focus?

A. - A career that allows room for growth and pays me really well

B. - A career as a (name your title here) which gives the following:

1. - 100% matching 401k up to 6% or 3%

2.-Flexible work hours (if that is important to you)

3. -Employer paid health care

4. - A career which empowers me by providing $X in income as my base salary.

C. I don't care I just want a freaking job! My bills are killing me. I'm going to

be late on my cable.

D. Thank you for stopping in ma’am, would you like some gum today to go with your gasoline purchase?

Okay, which one fits?

Now, let's make the assertion that you have NOT managed to squirrel away that six months of living expenses so you can continue on about your life like a retired millionaire in Costa Rica. And you find after three weeks that the outlook isn't so cheery.

Believe it or not, while you’re un-employed, your debtors continue to need their income from you. They extended you credit, they expect payment. You are obligated to pay these debts.

Now let's talk about a couple of things before we go off and give the answer away. If you are laid off, quit, get fired, downsized, outsized, outsourced, or just have no income coming in, here a few helpful tips to get you through your temporary situation.

1. Cancel Cable/Dish (it's not a necessity) - or call them and ask them to suspend service as you are now un-employed

2. Cancel your internet (what? no freaking way! Are you insane how can I check my email? It's called the library, and it's free.-And it get's you out of the house.) Call your internet service provider and ask them to suspend your service as you are now un-employed.

3. Call your cell phone company and find out what the most economical plan is. If texting costs, drop it, if you are paying for data, drop it. go to a basic service. If you have a land line home phone, ask the cell provider to suspend your service, if they won't ask them to lower it to the most basic rate? What are you paying now $100 or more per month? The base rate is emergency type call status, probably the most expensive minutes, but stop using it for anything but that or job contacts.

4. Call all your creditors and tell them you'd like to pay only the interest while you are in this situation. Mortgage/Bank/Credit Cards.

So, that's the first move.

Second move. This came as advice to me long ago. If you find you are ever out of a job, go get a night job at a convenience store. There is always a need for them and you can continue to bring in some type of income. And it's income while you don't have any.

Now back to the Quiz; I see two right answers: D. While you focus on B.

Un-employment can last six weeks. Or it can last six months. However, with the right résumé, the right contact, and when you KNOW what companies are really hiring, it's easier. Find your career on http://www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Are you Tracking? Are you following up? Are you persistent?

2009-01-07T04:16:00.001-08:00

Tracking? Well I think I learned that in scouts when I was a kid.

Ok. Do you even know who or what company you have applied for, what the position/requisition number and date was? No?

Me neither-in the past.

Here's a crafty way to keep track of who/what/when/where. You can download the Job Tracker Spreadsheet. Or you can create your own.

Create a spreadsheet with these basic column headings or change them at your discretion.

Company Applied To:

Date Resume Submitted

Sent Cover Letter Y/N

Req/Job Number

Follow up in five working days Y/N

Send Thank you note

Point of Contact name/ph/e-mail

2nd Follow up Date Submitted Resume +15 Y/N

Outcome Interview/Offer

Now when you have filled out the line; go to your calendar, your Franklin planner, your Outlook calendar, your time keeper, desk blotter, whatever.

Enter the following: five working days from the day you submitted your resume flag a task to follow up. Immediately follow up with a thank you note after you have made contact. Plot your second follow up ten days later; and send a second note of thanks, to all involved.

Persistence is key; I was made a written offer by a company that seemed like a fit only to have them pull the requisition because of a contingency, it wasn't their fault; they were subcontractors. But I followed up immediately thanking them for the opportunity; two weeks after, and six weeks after, and low and behold, a full 12 weeks after they rejected me, they came back and said, "Hey, you still interested, that position was finally funded."

Ok, why do you suppose they called me? Persistence.

Wondering who is hiring, and where they are hiring? www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Kick Ass in the Interview!

2009-01-05T23:45:00.000-08:00

You've managed to differentiate yourself from thousands of other resumes; you've been narrowed down to the final five or fifty for that matter (depends on company size).

How to nail the interview?

1. Be yourself

2. Know your strengths

3. Know your weaknesses

4. Relax

I took an interview with the contractor that ultimately offered me the position in Central Texas. But when I went in the interview, I was caught off a bit. 1. It was a can you interview today? and 2. Can you be here in an hour?

I could, and did. I had on my best suit, and tie. I also had hair way too long for the corporate office, sideburns that rivaled Elvis' and a soul patch that was nearly a fu man choo.

I apologized for my appearance, and told them, that in fact so busy, I hadn’t been to the barber. But assured them, my appearance did not affect my ability to handle business.

I looked a bit askew but I presented myself with confidence. I was asked technical questions. And I let them know what I knew. And the question I didn't I told them I knew how to find out. They wanted to know my biggest screw up. Well that would have been my second day at my first job as a young sys admin. The backup tapes on Novell were overwriting the SQL database backups, and on top of it. The tapes were old. NOTHING was being backed up and the SQL server crashed.

I attempted a restore. Impossible. The prior sys admin had setup backups, concurrently. And Novell overwrote the SQL. I pulled out weeks of tapes. It was all for naught. So what'd I do? I went to help in SQL, and to Yahoo and Microsoft Tech Net (at that time Google hadn't debuted in my life) and began looking up SQL commands that would restore and rebuild corrupt data. Ultimate result: I got the SQL server db back up and running. We lost days worth of work. We ended up with NEW tapes; and new backups.

Now I started my job that year on Dec 23rd - on a Wednesday. The second day, Christmas eve is when the snafu happened. We were obviously off Christmas, but I was in on Saturday morning, the 26^th, trying to fix it. I beat the boss in- he was a Saturday worker too. Bill, the owner of the company looked at me and asked, "Well, how is it going?” And I told him, and I told him the possible consequences of data loss, and then I said, "I understand if you fire me." -"Heck no, he retorted, I like your work ethic, your in here on a day you didn't have to be." - and he walked off.

Same interview, they asked me the worst possible thing happening to me at work; I replied quite sullenly with a rhetorical question. "Have you," I asked, "ever had to fire anyone? I have and that is the worst possible feeling. It is business, but it made me personally sick to my stomach. But it had to be done. I know it affects people's lives but it was a necessary decision when I was a director of a prior company."

And we conversed about good things on the job, reviewed my resume. And I used that chance to highlight my achievements. The interview, a panel interview of three persons, though formal, became an exchange and discussion of ideas.

I was at ease, and that seemed to put them at ease. Interviewers are people, just like you whether or not they will be your boss, or just a part of HR. If you are nervous, don’t fake NOT being nervous. Tell them you are, take a breath. Guess what? They just put on their shoes, one at a time, just like you!

I was actually reminded of that interview this morning; I was watching a clip from “The Pursuit of Happyness” when Chris Gardner, having just bailed himself out of jail, sprinted to the interview at Dean Witter, covered in paint, in jeans, a wife beater T, and a Members Only jacket that didn’t zip. He walked in confidently and introduced himself to the board. He didn’t try and give them a story he told them the truth. And when asked by the apparent head honcho, “What so you think they would say if I told them I’d hired a man from an interview who came in with no shirt on?” Chris Gardner replied after a thought, “He must have had some really nice pants!” - It broke the ice completely- everyone laughed. He landed the position at Dean Witter.

I was myself throughout the interview. And by the end I was asked two questions. 1. Would I consider a move to Texas and 2. How does this salary offer sound?

If you've read my previous post; this was the company I was gunning for. They offered 100% medical for the family. And I had spent $9600 the previous year paying for insurance for my family-so that was like a $9600 raise on top of the salary. Oh and moving from Virginia to Texas there was no State Income Tax. Another savings and boost to my bottom line.

Ultimately, it took about a month before I landed that job. But I have had dozens of interviews since then, over the phone and in person. And it comes back to being yourself, knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and no what kind of questions to ask back to open the interview. And since that time, I’ve come to master the art of the phone interview as well. But that’s another topic.

To find out whose hiring right now in your state, or the place you want to be:

www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Why move? To paraphrase Willie Horton, a 1930's bankrobber, "That's where the jobs are."

2009-01-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

I've moved at least twice for jobs; and both times, I paid my own way. And I had a family and a Ryder truck full of furniture, household goods and toys.

Why move? To paraphrase Willie Horton, a 1930's bankrobber, "That's where the jobs are."

You may find that if you are stuck in a city where you have exhausted your status or position, and generally you can if the city you live in is under 100,000 persons; possibly up to 500,000.

Case in Point; OakRidge National Labs was one of the biggest IT employers in the Knoxville TN area in the mid-ninetees. I went to work for SAIC on a subcontract through TEK-Systems. After sixty days I was offered a move to an entirely new field at double the salary I was making. I jumped at the chance. However I burned a bridge. Lesson learned! The doubled salary in a new field lasted 89 days. I couldn't go back to my old position, why? The new job needed me to Start on a Wednesday. They told me that on a Monday. I gave no requisite two weeks notice. Now that hasn't ever come back to haunt me, and here is why: Somwhere around 45 of the 50 states are "Right to Work" states, meaning that you have a right to work or leave, and they have a right to fire you or lay you off, with no notice.

So, I looked around and found jobs in the Richmond Virginia area were plentiful. So I sent off my resume, with my cover letters, via email, letting them know I would move myself. I didn't get so much as one phone call.

So, I called my sister and brother in law, and asked them, "May I use your address on my resume, so it shows I'm a local?" They permitted me to. I began to resubmit resumes, and within a week I had three interviews and job offers. -All my interviews were phone interviews, and I let them know I stilled lived in Tennessee but I would be happy move myself. And ultimately, I did. I commuted for a couple months, home on the weekends so I could see the family (about a six hour drive) but we soon made the move, with the Ryder truck.

Fast forward a few years in Richmond; I had not updated my skillset, this was 2006. I left a job with a major government contractor at Ft. Lee to pursue real estate investment. This paid off well, initially. But six months later, I was back in the work force, and it was another three months after that before I was able to find a job. I went in for an interview for a position back at Ft. Lee with a government contractor. But I didn't get an offer. I followed up, but the response wasn't forthcoming.

I looked around, Dallas area was hiring like crazy. So I called my neice and her husband and asked, "May I use your address on my resume?" They conceded. And I started getting calls and interviews. Now at the time, I totally sucked at phone interviews. I would stammer, and stumble. So I was talking to a company on Tuesday, they wanted to know could I phone interview on Thursday morning. I requested a face to face. I immediately packed my bag for two weeks. Walked downstairs, told my wife, I am going to Texas for an interview, and got in the car and 22 hours later, I was at my neices house. I walked into the interview in Plano Texas on Thursday morning, and was given a second interview on Friday morning, where I was handed on offer letter on the spot with a two week decision period.

I got a call that afternoon from Microsoft. -Interview tip with Microsoft, they called me, I didn't call them.....but KNOW YOUR MICROSOFT ANSWER....just like on the tests. I hadn't updated my skillset to 2003 yet. And I had been actively putting it off. It bit me. I bombed the interview miserably.

The following Monday, I got an offer letter from the company in Central Texas I had interviewed with....so I moved, because that is where the jobs were. I chose them over the job in Plano for two reasons; 1. cost of living was lower than Plano and 2. they covered healthcare for the family 100%!

Want that job in another city?

1. If you are able to, phone a friend in your desired relocation city. See if they will let you use their address. Don't have friends or family? You may want to consider craigslist temporary rooms for rent.

2. Be prepared to pay your own way for the move.

3. Kick ass in the interview.

You can get jobs in other cities and towns, you have to be persistent, but from experience I got interviews and offers AFTER I had a 'local' address.

Find out whose hiring in your state or the state you want to move to: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

On Resumé Layout Writing and Format - Success

2009-01-03T22:21:00.000-08:00

1. Spell Check

2. Read it outloud.

3. Have a trusted friend read it outloud.

4. Have it proof read by a third person.

Mistakes in grammar, and spelling are probably one of the most glaring mistakes. Telling nonchalant stories instead of putting down facts relevant to the position you've had. Has it been over five years since you've updated your resumé? By the way, wonder how to get the accent mark over the é? Hold down the Alt button, and type on the keypad, right of the keyboard, 0233

-it will not work on the number keys above the keyboard. Again that's ALT+0233 (é)

Give it a shot!

Now about resume formats; there are generally four:

1. Chronological

2. Functional

3. Combination

4. Targeted

The chronological is starting with the first job last, and working backward from there. Some persons will tell you ONLY ONE PAGE...maybe if your twenty two. Once you are mid-career, it's fine to have two, and possibly 3 pages.

Bullet points are your friend. Use them to highlight the objectives of the position you held, and to further deliniate your skillset.

Chronological are wanted by a majority of employers; for instance from personal experience. I know one top three federal contractors told me this; I was lucky, their resumé parsing machine only kicks forward resumés that match 90 percent of the job description buzz words. And that was just to get a call from their internal recruiter. Ultimately the position wasn't a fit, but the recruiter was nice enough to answer some of my questions I asked.

1. How did I end up getting picked for a call? -Explanation in the above paragraph.

2. Any suggestions? Yes! Get your resume in a chronological format.

So there you go....I didn't get in front of the hiring manager that time, nor did I get a phone interview, generally the first step these days. But, guess what; I changed my resume to chronological, and have resubmitted for a different position, and I got an interview.

Why did I have a functional resume before? Well, I had revamped my resume based on the suggestion of another friend. I mirrored my resume format from his, and he had his professionally done. -and then I realized we were at different points. His was based on pursuing an executive level job; mine was for a managerial technical position. In fact mine was based on obtaining a directorship/managerial level. But it is a tight market. So I changed my resume back to chronological, highlighting my technical expertise. Guess what, I have had five job offers.

Combination: It lists your skills and experience first. Your employment history is next. This is a resumé that highlights the skills that coincide with the position you are applying for.

Targeted: Alright, let's talk about this just a second. This is the most intensive type of resume, it's written specifically for the job posting. Found skills in your resume and skills in the job listing identical? This would be a great time to revamp your resume to show the skillset you have which meshes precisely with the position you want.

Idea for you. Create one of each. However if you find yourself un-employed and with time on your hands, do your research, and send in the targeted resume.

"I learned this, at least, by my experiment, that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success in uncommon hours." - Henry David Thoreau

Find a job where they are hiring now: www.govtcontractorjobs.com

Getting in Front of the Decision Maker

2009-01-03T05:08:00.000-08:00

1. Be Nice.

2. Ask Questions.

3. Do Research.

How much do you know about the company you want to have a career with? Note that "Career". Almost always, you will see career opportunities. Because, frankly if a company and an individual come to mutual agreement, it can become a career.

How do you do the research?

Well, let's break it down: Do you want a HUGE corporation or a 'small' company? HUGE corporations are well, big, and frankly it takes them some time to make a decision. There are regulatory hurtles, and some twenty or so layers of beauracracy when it comes to a hiring process...well maybe not, but sometimes it seems like it.

Read their annual report? What? That's huge, why would I do that? So when you walk into an interview, or you are asked, "What do you know about our company?" - you can reply. "You are the third largest government contractor, I know you won a XMillion dollar contract for providing services to the government for Y. On top of that I know that you have a backlog on contracts that is allowing the company room for growth, your P/E ratio is 10.7 and your earning per share is .30. To that end, I believe that since you were established in 19XX, and have shown growth rates of up to 23% a year, it gives me an opportunity to continue helping the company continue down that path of growth and profitibility". Their website is a great place to start with as well, read their 'media releases' as well. They provide the latest 'wins' a company has.

Small companies move quicker, there are less layers. Fact is since companies are small you may find yourself with more interviews with potential team members. But how to find out about the company?

Start with the About Us page on their website; find out who the corporate officers are, google and for that matter read all of their website. Get familiar with the company; do research find out who its largest partners are. And when asked "What can you tell us about our company?" You can respond you know that they were established in 19xx they have partners of XYZ and that they are poised on growth; you have noted they are on contract with the gov't for, read about the position they have open, and respond about how your skills meet or exceed their requirements."

And how do I find out who's hiring? www.govtcontractorjobs.com

"It's the Economy Stupid" - Bill Clinton

2009-01-03T04:46:00.000-08:00

Currently, according to November's unemployment rate (the latest figures from bls.gov) is 6.73%.

Bad News begats Bad News. Layoffs are everywhere, banks are failing, mass fraud has occured. -and on a sidenote, it always seems to be that those that are 'greedy' seem to get their asses caught in the hard times too. (Madoff anyone?)

Have you been laid off? Are you facing layoffs? Do you know whose hiring? Rolled the dice only to find out you have been contacted by 2,354 recruiting firms for the same position? Got a monster on your back? Ever sat and filled out roughly 150-500 job postings, only to never be contacted again? (Ever wonder why? There are MILLIONS of persons resumes on Monster/Dice/CareerBuilder). You are competing with them.

What makes you special? You know that you are supremely qualified for that position you applied for. But you didn't do what? Follow up? Send a nicely worded cover letter/e-mail. Didn't really get to talk to a real person? Did you make an attempt?

Are you currently un-employed, or under-employed? Gotten into a pattern of "Dice/Monster/CareerBuilder/HotJobs" every day for the last month? Put out a 'thousand' resumes and you haven't gotten a bite, nor a nibble. But YOU COULD PAY and extra $30 bucks a month to find out who has been looking at your resume on Dice.

I've heard it all, people grousing about how The Ladders is a shill for a resume re-deux service. And the complainers seem to be the ones without the jobs. I for one think that you pay for a service, and receive exactly what you pay for.

So who IS hiring right now?

The Government, and their subsequent talent....Government Contractors. They come in all sizes from the small one man shop to the global-reaching multi-billion dollar organizations.

Interested in finding out more? The Who, The What, The How Much? The Why? And The When? www.govtcontractorjobs.com