Keep Up Your Credit While Unemployed

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

Keeping your credit in good shape may be the last thing on your mind while you are in the middle of a job search. Be sure you can pass a pre-employment credit check. A poor credit score may cost you a job opportunity and can cost you a lot of money in higher rates and fees. 

The amount you owe and how you pay your bills are the biggest factors in determining your FICO (Fair Isaac Company) score.  Your score is determined by the following factors: 

Payment History- pay your bills on time every month. Recent late payments  have a negative impact on scores.  The more late accounts and number of late payments the bigger the negative effects. 

Amount Owed- Don’t max out your credit cards. Keep the balance at no more than 30% of your credit limit. Go beyond this on multiple cards and your score will fall. 

Credit History- The longer your history of positive activity the higher the score. This means on time payments and not just paying the minimum.  The longer you have an active account the better as long as you don’t have too much debt.  Use each account once or twice a year to keep it active. If you open a new account, let it build up a credit history before you close any old accounts. 

Credit Mix- Use a mix of major credit cards such as Visa, department store, and gas company cards.  Be sure to keep the debt as reasonable levels, pay on time and pay more than the minimum. 

Hopefully you have an emergency fund of 3-6 months of living expenses. This will help you to continue to pay your bills even if you don’t have a job. Buy only what you need and don’t spend money you don’t have.  Check your credit report every year and clean up any incorrect information.  You are entitled to two free reports every year. 


Copyright 2012 @ Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Should you take a buyout?

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

With companies shedding jobs, you may be offered a buyout package to leave your organization. If you have a choice you may be wise to turn it down. With job creation stagnant you may have a tough time replacing your job.  The real unemployment rate is close to 16% and millions are coming to the end of their benefits. If you like your job, hold onto it with both hands.  If you don’t like your job it may make sense to take the buyout under these conditions: 

Retirement 

If you are close to retirement and the buyout will bridge the time, then give the offer a close look. You will not need retraining or the outplacement services usually offered as part of these packages. You may be able to negotiate a larger buyout amount as a result.  Be sure to consult a financial advisor to be sure you have enough money to retire. 

Marketability 

How easy will it be for you to find a job?  Are you in a high demand field?  Do you have recruiters calling? How is your network?  Are you well connected and well known in a growing industry?  If so you may have a short period of unemployment.  If you have not been on the job market for awhile you will have a lot of work ahead of you to secure a new position. 

Geography 

The market is hot in Washington D.C. due to government growth, not so hot in Detroit due to auto industry troubles.  If your area is hard hit you may also have trouble getting a job.  Check the unemployment figures and job listings for your area, before you make any decision. 

Relatives 

You may have a relative with a business or connections to a business that will employ you. This could be until the economy improves or permanent employment.  Be certain the offer is still there and the pay will be enough to meet your needs. 

Spouse/Significant Other 

Your spouse or partner may make enough to cover your joint expenses.  If this is the case discuss with them the possibility of taking the offer.  You should both be prepared for a prolonged period of unemployment and you should be dedicated to securing another job. The fact their income covers expenses takes some of the pressure out of the job search. 

Small Business 

Do you have a part time business you are currently running in addition to your primary job?  Could this business be ramped up to replace the income you will be losing? The buyout may be just the opportunity you need to turn the part time business into a full time one.  Use the buyout for living expenses while you build your business. Resist the urge to treat the buyout money as a windfall. You will need this money for expenses as you grow your small business. 

Consulting 

Do you have skills that lend themselves to consulting?  If you are well connected and well respected you may be able to create your own employment through consulting. If you have done some consulting or temporary work already, you may be ready to work for as a consultant full time.  Employment through a consulting firm may also be a good idea.  Some occupations like financial services, training and quality are good options for consulting. 

School 

Maybe you are just a few credits short of a degree. If that degree will substantially increase your earnings, think about returning to school. There is also stimulus money available to help pay for education and training. Make sure the degree you are getting will be marketable. 

To make a good decision about taking a buyout you will have to consider both your quality of life and your needs.  Look at your monthly expenses and determine if unemployment compensation and your savings will cover your expenses.  Investigate the job market in your area to determine how long it might take to get another job.  Weigh the options and then make the best decision for you and your family.


Copyright 2012 @Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Why did you leave your last job?

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

Don’t get tripped up if asked this question. You want to answer in a way that highlights your career goals and skills. Here are some do’s and don’ts of answering this question.

Don’t

• Never ever say anything bad about a former company.
• Never ever bad mouth a bad boss.
• Don’t tell someone you were fired for misconduct.
• Don’t dwell on any negative aspects of your employment or how you were let go.

Do

• Focus on the opportunity you gained by moving to another position.
• Talk about what you learned by changing jobs.
• Be honest about why you made a move. You can do this without saying bad things about a former boss or company.
• Focus on what you learned or accomplished and how you would apply that in your new position.
• Be honest if you were laid off due to the economy. It is a common experience many of us have had.

Here is how an answer might sound. “I really enjoyed my work as a Materials Engineer for ABC Company. Working in research gave me an opportunity to learn something new as a regular part of my job. ABC could not afford all the equipment we needed to do our research and we had to contract out parts of it to the local university. I got a chance to move to Dynamic Corporation. They had a bigger research budget. I not only got the equipment I needed to carry out research I also got a 25% increase in salary. Unfortunately Dynamic has been hard hit by this economy and has begun closing the Milwaukee division of their research group. I really want to stay in the area and am looking for looking opportunities using my Research skills. I was attracted to this position because of your company’s leadership in research and development.”

Work on your own answer to this question so you are ready during your next interview.

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

How to Answer the Salary Question

 Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

None of us like discussing money, especially when hunting for a job.  Answering the salary question can be tricky. You don’t want to overprice your self out of a job or ask to little and leave salary on the table.  The salary question is often asked as part of the application process. What should you do?

Answer or Not
Companies are trying to screen candidates based on the budgeted amount for the position.

You may take yourself out of the running if you don’t answer the question. Answer the question, but let them know the salary range is open for you. If the salary is lower than you made in the past, tell the company if you are willing to accept a lower salary and why. There may be good reasons for being open to lower compensation.

Interview

When asked this question, ask what the range is the company has in mind. Then let them know if that is in your range or if it is within the range of your last position. Set a realistic range based on the research you have done. You may have worked on the low end of the range for your occupation. You don’t want to put yourself in that position again.  There are a number of sites for doing salary research. Career Builder has an especially good tool.   HR departments are well aware of the salary range paid in your area. They do not want to over pay for a candidate. Like any business transaction they want to watch out for the financial interests of their organization. It is you job to be aware of your market worth based on current salary ranges and your accomplishments.  The interview will be your chance to demonstrate the experience, qualifications and accomplishments that justify the salary you are seeking.

Negotiations
The factors that will determine your salary offer is the market, the company and your qualifications.  Do not bring your financial situation into the negotiations. Your big mortgage or the length or your unemployment is not the concern of your future company. You should focus on the benefits you will bring to the employer. They will be turned off if you are all about the money and benefits.   Consider all factors when considering an offer. Benefits and other perks of an offer can be positives that balance out a slightly lower salary than you are seeking.  Establish trust and keep the discussion positive.

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Twittering to find jobs

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

Tweeting is not just for celebrities, but job seekers too.  Twitter is now offering a job board to its members.  At TweetMyjobs.com  a service being offered to bring together recruiters, companies and job seekers.  Twitter will provide instant notification of an open position via text messaging.

 There are 5700+ vertical Job Channels on Twitter which allow recruiters and companies to target their job openings.  Joining gives you instant notification via text message on your cell phone. How cool is that!!! The job comes to you.  Twitter is promoting this as a cost effective way for companies to target job seekers.

Benefits posted by Twitter:

• Access to 5700+ specialized job channels
• Instant notification on your cell phone.
• 6000 + member companies
• Ability to post a resume and profile
• Forward jobs to friends in your network
• Daily job updates.

Twitter is also promoting the site to recruiters with the following benefits.

• Ability to direct job seekers to their web site.
• Track results
• Lower recruiting costs
• Target jobs from among the 20 million Twitter users.
• Add logos to Tweets.

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Why should I hire you?

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

“Why should I hire you?” is a question often asked in interviews.  You need to be ready to answer this important question. Networking groups often talk about the 30 second speech. The 30 second speech is a short summary of your skills, experience and the type of work you are looking for.  Use a version of this 30 second speech to sell your skills and experience to perspective employers.  In this short speech you will tell them about yourself and why you are a good fit for the company. If you do your research before each interview you can tailor your speech to highlight the skills and experience that are the best fit.  Here are some of the things you will highlight in your 30 second speech:

• The skills you currently have and how you have applied them in the past.  Past success is a good indication of future success.
  
  
• The results you have gotten applying your skills. If customer service is a key issue in the organization highlight your customer service skills and success story.
  
  
• The position you are seeking and how you skills are a good fit for this job and organization.  Again do your research about the organization and the position. Begin to demonstrate you are an articulate and talented professional. Show you are most interested in helping this organization and being a valuable addition to their team.

Practice this speech until it becomes second nature. You can adapt it slightly based on each interview. It should sound natural and conversational.  The more often you use this speech the more easy and natural it will sound.

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Pre-Interview grooming tips for women

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

If you have an interview scheduled you want to look your best.  Being well groomed will help you to feel confident and project a professional image.  Follow these grooming tips.

Perfume
Skip the perfume. Many people find it annoying or are allergic.  A lightly scented hand lotion is acceptable for your hands. You want to have nice hands for that hand shake.

Hair
Get a trim and have any color touched up.  Color should be natural looking. No white streaks, or pastel colors.  If hair is longer than shoulder length, wear it up in a braid, French twist or chignon. It goes without saying your hair should be clean and of a conservative style.  The exception would be in the arts and entertainment business. More artistic styles and colors are acceptable in these professions.

Make-up
Think natural and neutral.  Use a light hand with makeup.  Watch anchorwomen on TV. Even though they wear makeup for the cameras it looks, natural.  Ask a make up artist to help you if you are uncertain. Ask for an “executive” look. A good artist used to preparing clients for photo’s will know the right make up to use.   Stay away from bright colors for lipstick also and be sure to blot your lips well.  Make sure foundation is well blended, including the neck area.

Nails

Leave the long fake nails at home.  You don’t want to look like you are going to be afraid to break a nail. Again use a neutral or sheer color of the nails.

These tips will help you look your most professional. The rest is up to you!

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Keep up your credit while unemployed

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

 Keeping your credit in good shape may be the last thing on your mind while you are in the middle of a job search. Be sure you can pass a pre-employment credit check. A poor credit score may cost you a job opportunity and can cost you a lot of money in higher rates and fees.

The amount you owe and how you pay your bills are the biggest factors in determining your FICO (Fair Isaac Company) score.  Your score is determined by the following factors:

Payment History- pay your bills on time every month. Recent late payments  have a negative impact on scores.  The more late accounts and number of late payments the bigger the negative effects.

Amount Owed- Don’t max out your credit cards. Keep the balance at no more than 30% of your credit limit. Go beyond this on multiple cards and your score will fall.

Credit History- The longer your history of positive activity the higher the score. This means on time payments and not just paying the minimum.  The longer you have an active account the better as long as you don’t have too much debt.  Use each account once or twice a year to keep it active. If you open a new account, let it build up a credit history before you close any old accounts.

Credit Mix- Use a mix of major credit cards such as Visa, department store, and gas company cards.  Be sure to keep the debt as reasonable levels, pay on time and pay more than the minimum.

Hopefully you have an emergency fund of 3-6 months of living expenses. This will help you to continue to pay your bills even if you don’t have a job. Buy only what you need and don’t spend money you don’t have.  Check your credit report every year and clean up any incorrect information.  You are entitled to two free reports every year.

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Should you take a buyout?

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

With companies shedding jobs, you may be offered a buyout package to leave your organization. If you have a choice you may be wise to turn it down. With job creation stagnant you may have a tough time replacing your job.  The real unemployment rate is close to 16% and millions are coming to the end of their benefits. If you like your job, hold onto it with both hands.  If you don’t like your job it may make sense to take the buyout under these conditions:

Retirement

If you are close to retirement and the buyout will bridge the time, then give the offer a close look. You will not need retraining or the outplacement services usually offered as part of these packages. You may be able to negotiate a larger buyout amount as a result.  Be sure to consult a financial advisor to be sure you have enough money to retire.

Marketability
How easy will it be for you to find a job?  Are you in a high demand field?  Do you have recruiters calling? How is your network?  Are you well connected and well known in a growing industry?  If so you may have a short period of unemployment.  If you have not been on the job market for awhile you will have a lot of work ahead of you to secure a new position.

Geography
The market is hot in Washington D.C. due to government growth, not so hot in Detroit due to auto industry troubles.  If your area is hard hit you may also have trouble getting a job.  Check the unemployment figures and job listings for your area, before you make any decision.

Relatives
You may have a relative with a business or connections to a business that will employ you. This could be until the economy improves or permanent employment.  Be certain the offer is still there and the pay will be enough to meet your needs.

Spouse/Significant Other
Your spouse or partner may make enough to cover your joint expenses.  If this is the case discuss with them the possibility of taking the offer.  You should both be prepared for a prolonged period of unemployment and you should be dedicated to securing another job. The fact their income covers expenses takes some of the pressure out of the job search.

Small Business
Do you have a part time business you are currently running in addition to your primary job?  Could this business be ramped up to replace the income you will be losing? The buyout may be just the opportunity you need to turn the part time business into a full time one.  Use the buyout for living expenses while you build your business. Resist the urge to treat the buyout money as a windfall. You will need this money for expenses as you grow your small business.

Consulting
Do you have skills that lend themselves to consulting?  If you are well connected and well respected you may be able to create your own employment through consulting. If you have done some consulting or temporary work already, you may be ready to work for as a consultant full time.  Employment through a consulting firm may also be a good idea.  Some occupations like financial services, training and quality are good options for consulting.

School
Maybe you are just a few credits short of a degree. If that degree will substantially increase your earnings, think about returning to school. There is also stimulus money available to help pay for education and training. Make sure the degree you are getting will be marketable.

To make a good decision about taking a buyout you will have to consider both your quality of life and your needs.  Look at your monthly expenses and determine if unemployment compensation and your savings will cover your expenses.  Investigate the job market in your area to determine how long it might take to get another job.  Weigh the options and then make the best decision for you and your family.

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Interviewing when you’re overqualified

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

In a tough job market you may not be able to find a position that would be a promotion or even the equivalent of your last job.  You may very well find yourself in an interview being asked questions about being overqualified.  The hiring manager is concerned either you will be bored and under motivated or move on when something better comes along.

Here are some questions you might be asked and how to deal with them:

1. Why would you want this position, your last position had much more responsibility.   There may be many reasons you would welcome a less intense position. Maybe you just had a child and don’t want to work a 60 hour week. A less responsible position may be a better fit for your new personal situation. Perhaps the position is with a company that offers better compensation and benefits than your last position. The better package is worth mentioning as a reason to come aboard.  Since you handled a much tougher job you can hit the ground running and will need little training. You can be expect to hit the ground running.
   
   
2. Wouldn’t you be bored?  This job may not challenge your skills. Talk about your past success. .  Since you handled a much tougher job you can hit the ground running and will need little training. You can be expecting to produce results in very short order. Achievement and getting things done will keep you motivated. In short you are a good value for the money. You want an organization you can grow with and ware willing to start in this position.
   
   
3. How do I know you will stay with the company? If you have several long term stints with companies discuss that and the skills you brought to those companies.  Talk about being part of a team and how you identified with the companies where you worked. Talk about the stability you have had and how you plan on staying long term if hired?
   
   
4. There may not be an opportunity for a promotion anytime soon due to the economy. Is that ok with you? Talk about the great things about the company your research revealed. If you are excited about their products, place in the market or company culture talk about it. If you are excited to learn new things bring that up. Discuss your past success and how you would apply those same skills. If you are successful express confidence that the rewards will come once the economy improves.
   
   
5. Where do you see yourself in five years? Talk about how you see the future with this company. Your inside sources or research should have told you about current challenges with this company. Talk about how you will use those skills now and over the next five years to help this organization. Use examples of how you used your skills to solve similar problems at your last job.  Show how you will partner with this business to solve its problems.

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Keeping a roof over your head- unemployed renters

Chris Wodke

www.summittrainingpublications.com

If you are unemployed and struggling to pay you rent you do have several options.  The advice for renters is similar for homeowners.  You should make paying your rent your priority. Pay this bill first.  It won’t do you much good to be current on your electric bill if you don’t have a place to live.  Here are some other options:

Landlord
If you are a good tenant your landlord may be able to work something out with you.  They may reduce or defer your rent while you are unemployed.  Remember the landlord has bills too, so they may only be able to help so much.  Another option would be to trade labor for part of your rent. You my be able to do yard or building maintenance to help pay for your rent.  It is tough to find good tenants so see what you can work out with the property owner.

Lease

Check and see what the requirements are for your lease. You will need to know how much notice you need to give if you have to leave.  You have to comply with the terms of the lease if you want to get your security deposit back.  Also begin to brush up on eviction law, so you know your rights and those of your landlord.  If you have a lease you may be responsible for rent for the term of the lease even if evicted.

Roommate
Check your lease and discuss this option with your landlord.  You may be able to take on roommates to help pay expenses.  Any new tenant will have to go through a credit and background check and have to be added to the lease. This can significantly cut your expenses.

Relatives

You may have to give up your independence and move in with relatives. This can be a temporary solution while you are job hunting.  Go over any ground rules when you move back in. It is really common in this economy for adult children to return home.  Remember to help out with household chores even if you cannot help out financially.

Relatives and friends may be able to help out with a short term load to keep you in your rental unit.

Public Housing

If relatives are not an option, you may qualify for rent assistance or public housing.  This will be based on your financial situation. Also check with Catholic charities and other local charities such as United Way for help.

Struggling to pay your bills due to unemployment is a tough situation.  Remember to seek help early before your situation becomes desparate.

Copyright 2012 Summit Training Publications

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation