Looking for a Job? Sun Sentinel career and workplace writer Marcia Pounds answered YOUR questions about finding a job

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Looking for a job?

(01/27/2011)

12:59

Moderator:

Welcome to our chat session with Sun Sentinel career and workplace writer Marcia Pounds. Please submit your questions now.

Thursday January 27, 2011 12:59 Moderator

1:01

[Comment From MitchMitch: ]

It appears while unemployment benefits have been extended, ARRA benefits have not. This forces me to use my entire unemployment check to cover healthcare premiums.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:01 Mitch

1:02

Moderator:

Thanks for your question Mitch.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:02 Moderator

1:03

marciabiz:

Hi Mitch,

Yes, unemployment benefits have been extended for some, but that doesn't help you cover your healthcare premium. You might check individual healthcare coverage, which can be cheaper than COBRA. Shop at ehealthinsurance.com.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:03 marciabiz

1:06

marciabiz:

The new healthcare law will be a help to you but preventing insurance companies from denying coverage for pre-existing conditions doesn't kick in for a few years.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:06 marciabiz

1:07

[Comment From timtim: ]

How long should you wait before contacting a compay that you applied to online?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:07 tim

1:08

marciabiz:

You shouldn't wait at all. You should be doing your homework on the company and finding inside advocates to better get to know the company. Set up a coffee with someone at the company to get better prepared for a potential interview.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:08 marciabiz

1:09

[Comment From MitchMitch: ]

One last question pertaining to ARRA: Do you think as the extension comes to an end, it will come up for a vote again like unemployment benefits did?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:09 Mitch

1:10

Moderator:

Hi Steve. Thanks for joining the conversation. Marcia will address your question next.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:10 Moderator

1:10

marciabiz:

Mitch,

I think that's doubtful at this point. The unemployment benefits extension was probably only approved as a component of the tax bill.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:10 marciabiz

1:10

[Comment From SteveSteve: ]

I would like to become a middle or highschool math teacher. Do you have any advice for me. It would be a heavy paycut.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:10 Steve

1:11

marciabiz:

Hi Steve,

That's admirable. You can become certified as a teacher while at another job. Take the classes and even volunteer to help out a teacher to get an idea of whether it's something you really want to do.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:11 marciabiz

1:12

[Comment From LisaLisa: ]

What is the best way to tell my current employer that I will quit.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:12 Lisa

1:13

marciabiz:

Hi Lisa,

Good question. You never want to burn bridges. So if you plan on quitting, give proper notice. After you leave the job, resist the urge to talk negatively about your former employer. It will only hurt you.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:13 marciabiz

1:15

[Comment From AnnyiaAnnyia: ]

Do you have any recommendations for a home based job. I worked full time out of the home until August, and have been unemployed since. We desperately need income, but I am now homeschooling our daughter and love being home with her.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:15 Annyia

1:16

Moderator:

Thanks JP. You are next...

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:16 Moderator

1:17

marciabiz:

Hi Anniya,

There are many customer representative jobs for call centers that are home-based. Do your research on the company to make sure they are established. Don't agree to work for any company that asks you to invest in technology or other upfront costs.

There are a number of South Florida-based call centers that are offering at home customer service work. Contact me at 561-243-6650 on Friday and I can give you a list.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:17 marciabiz

1:17

[Comment From JPJP: ]

I am currently employed but not happy with my position. It is better to look for work while still employed, correct?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:17 JP

1:19

marciabiz:

Hi JP,

Yes, it is always better to look for a job while still employed. This is the idea position to be in. So start looking at companies you would like to work for and do your homework. Find people you know at those companies to find out whether they are an employer you would like to work for in the future.

Keep this job search quiet, of course, so you keep your current job.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:19 marciabiz

1:19

[Comment From SusanSusan: ]

Hi Marcia, I was laid off in Sept. 2010 and am on unemployment benefits that will end in March. I was wondering if the extension will apply to me.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:19 Susan

1:20

marciabiz:

Hello Susan,

Yes, if you were laid off in September 2010, you should qualify for the unemployment extension as long as you continue searching for a job.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:20 marciabiz

1:20

[Comment From DebraDebra: ]

Do you have any suggestions for how to get past the receptionist when you call for information about a job opening? It seems they won't let me talk to anyone, and I can't find out who is receiving the resume I submitted. Thanks.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:20 Debra

1:21

marciabiz:

Debra,

Getting past the receptionist can be difficult. Be as nice as possible. You always want to treat anyone well when visiting or call a potential employer. Be flexible in when you can talk or meet with the person -- that will be appreciated.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:21 marciabiz

1:22

[Comment From MarianeMariane: ]

How do I ask for a raise in salary. I have been with the same company for 10 years. What is the best way.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:22 Mariane

1:23

marciabiz:

Hi Mariane,

Many employees have been hesitant to ask for a salary boost in the recession, but more companies are giving pay hikes now. Before you ask, you want to show that you have met and even exceeded the employer's expectations. The company isn't going to give you a raise just out of goodwill, so be prepared.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:23 marciabiz

1:23

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

I was laid off from my job about a year ago. I am still having problems finding a real full time job. I have done everything possible. I interviewed a couple of times but did not get the job - one due to me not having the right experience

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:23 Guest

1:24

Moderator:

Thanks for your questions. Marcia is answering them as fast as she can. Keep them coming!

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:24 Moderator

1:25

marciabiz:

Dear "guest,"

Many folks are in your situation. I know it's not easy out there. If you feel that you have "tried everything," it's time to review your approach with an expert. Go to your local one-stop career center and ask a counselor to look over your resume and talk about how your searching for a job.

If you don't have the right experience, they might be able to help you get the experience you need through on the job training or volunteering.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:25 marciabiz

1:26

[Comment From MarioMario: ]

I hate to admit it, but I am too proud to work for Walmart, McDonald's. I don't qualify for benefits. I really don't know what to do. I was an engineer in my country.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:26 Mario

1:27

marciabiz:

Hi Mario,

There are many people, even Americans, who have been displaced in the recession and are working at jobs they would rather not do. If you have a background in engineering, go to a local university to talk with career counselors and what you need to do to get certified here. Start making contacts in your field.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:27 marciabiz

1:28

[Comment From SusanSusan: ]

If I take a temporary job at a temp agency will I be able to go back on unemployment benefits once the job ends? That is if nothing else comes up.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:28 Susan

1:29

marciabiz:

Susan,

Yes, if you a temporary job ends and you have unemployment benefits left, you should be eligible to go back on them. Hopefully, the temp job will turn into permanent work, which would be better!

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:29 marciabiz

1:29

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

(sorry this is continued from my previous post - I hit enter by accident)and another interview made it through the first round and 2nd round interviews but now the recruiter is saying that they are still waiting for management for the final interview which has been over a month now and other setbacks as well with recruiters. What do you suggest me to do? I think it might be hard given that I don't have much experience and out of school only for 3 years but not a newly grad. I am an IT professional but want a job in project coordination/management

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:29 Guest

1:30

marciabiz:

Hello Guest again,

You've made it through two interviews -- congrats! Now you have to be persistent without being a pain.

Think about some valuable information or a contact you can offer the potential employer -- anything that would make you stand out from other applicants, and make them choose you.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:30 marciabiz

1:30

[Comment From MartinaMartina: ]

Do you think looks matter when applying for a job?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:30 Martina

1:32

marciabiz:

Martina,

That's an interesting question. Yes, in a way, "looks" matter. But what's important as a job seeker is to look professional, not whether you look like a model. Make sure your interview suit or dress is updated and wear minimal jew elry. Be confident!

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:32 marciabiz

1:32

[Comment From NickNick: ]

Hello, first off, thank you for taking your time to answer our questions. My name is Nick and I was layed off 2 years ago. I have been diligently tring to find a job with no rsponse from possible employers except marketing and commisions base jobs. I have a complete resume and I know I am more than qualified for most of these jobs. I beginning to think that maybe i need my resume looked over by a professional. Who can help me?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:32 Nick

1:33

marciabiz:

Nick,

Yes, when you don't seem to be getting anywhere, it's time to go back to basics. Go to your one-stop career center to get your resume reviewed. Give it to colleagues in the business.

Are you on LinkedIn? You should be if you're not. That's the place many recruiters are scouting for talent.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:33 marciabiz

1:34

[Comment From ReesaReesa: ]

I was taken advantage by a potential employer. He took advantage of me durin the interview. I was too ashamed to go to the police. Who else could I go to? It was a big company in Palm Beach County.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:34 Reesa

1:34

marciabiz:

Reesa,

I'm sorry to hear that. Contact me so we can talk privately: 561-243-6650. Friday would be best.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:34 marciabiz

1:36

[Comment From MarkMark: ]

Who is the best company to work for in Broward? Do you have a list?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:36 Mark

1:37

marciabiz:

Hi Mark,

It depends on your definition of "best company." If you're looking for a company that treats its workers well with benefits and perks, go to Fortune magazine's "Best Companies to Work For" list. There are several local companies on it: JM Family Enterprises, Baptist Healthcare, CHG Health Services and other companies that have operations here.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:37 marciabiz

1:38

Moderator:

Thanks for your questions. Please keep them coming :O)

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:38 Moderator

1:38

[Comment From MarkMark: ]

thanks, which should I stay away from?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:38 Mark

1:40

marciabiz:

Mark,

I can't tell you which companies to "stay away from," but you should do your homework before interviewing at any employer. Do a Google search on the company and its top executives. If the company is public, look up its financials on www.sec.gov. Ask colleagues about the company and what its reputation is.

Always do your homework!

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:40 marciabiz

1:40

[Comment From JimJim: ]

Could you tell me about salary negotiations, please! When is the best time.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:40 Jim

1:41

marciabiz:

Hi Jim,

You should never, ever bring up salary until you are offered the job. You may be asked about it, but try to avoid the discussion or give a loose range. You want to appear flexible in this economy.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:41 marciabiz

1:42

[Comment From TeresaTeresa: ]

Should I insist on vacation time before hiring? I need 5 weeks, at least.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:42 Teresa

1:43

marciabiz:

Teresa,

Are you serious? That's not a good approach when you're interviewing for a job. Obviously, we all have our vacation wants and needs.

If you have a specific event you need to make a trip for, it is OK to bring it up after you have been offered the job. But don't do it before.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:43 marciabiz

1:44

[Comment From Vier MutchVier Mutch: ]

I am looking for a job in the medical field and no one is hiring

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:44 Vier Mutch

1:45

marciabiz:

Vier,

There are more jobs in healthcare than any other sector. Nurses are the No. 1 job listed on EmployFlorida.com and online job boards. There also is a growing biotech industry in Florida.

You may not be making the right contacts. Go to your local industry associations and get to know people in the medical field.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:45 marciabiz

1:46

[Comment From MikeMike: ]

How much should I ask for? What is normal for a server at a restaurant? Should I insist on benefits?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:46 Mike

1:47

marciabiz:

Mike,

You can ask around at the restaurant to find out the basic pay. Restaurant jobs rarely come with health benefits, unfortunately.

You also can find generic pay information on www.bls.gov, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:47 marciabiz

1:47

[Comment From angieangie: ]

my question is i have a bachelors in criminal justice and im currently attending grad school for mental health what kind of job do you suggest i search for

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:47 angie

1:48

marciabiz:

Hi Angie,

What do you want to do? What are you passionate about? You need to decide first, what job you want to do, then look at what's out there either in the criminal justice or mental health area. Perhaps you can combine the two.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:48 marciabiz

1:49

[Comment From jessicajessica: ]

do you know who is hiring

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:49 jessica

1:50

marciabiz:

Jessica,

I often post on my blog, www.sunsentinel.com/askmarcia, when companies are hiring or have job fairs. We also write stories when any company adds a number of jobs. So stay tuned to the Sun Sentinel in print and online.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:50 marciabiz

1:50

[Comment From angieangie: ]

i want to do counseling with childern can you suggest any places where are hiring that i can look into

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:50 angie

1:51

marciabiz:

Angie,

Since you know you want to do counseling with children, do your research on the agencies and organizations that specialize in that. There are local and state agencies as well as private. Contact the schools -- they work with many of these agencies or firms.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:51 marciabiz

1:52

[Comment From JaimeJaime: ]

I have given up the search. Please help. Are there groups out there for support?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:52 Jaime

1:54

marciabiz:

Jaime,

You can't give up. The job market is slowly recovering, even in Florida.

I understand how discouraging it can be. It is a good idea to reach out for support. The local one-stop centers have groups for people in career transition as well as several temporary and placement agencies. There is free help out there -- reach for it!

Many of the people I interview have felt the same way. Stay persistent and you you will eventually find work .

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:54 marciabiz

1:55

[Comment From CarmenCarmen: ]

What is the current minimum pay (starting pay) for a receptionist?

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:55 Carmen

1:55

[Comment From CarmenCarmen: ]

who could I complain. I think I am getting gipped.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:55 Carmen

1:56

marciabiz:

Carmen,

You can check average pay for a receptionist or any job on several websites:
bls.gov, glassdoor.com and vault.com. On the latter two sites, actual employees post their salary information. Check them out.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:56 marciabiz

1:56

[Comment From YunisYunis: ]

I'm interested in writing!! I have a passion for it

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:56 Yunis

1:56

[Comment From YunisYunis: ]

Specially in Spanish . I dominate the language and I see a lack of good translations and edition when translating

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:56 Yunis

1:58

marciabiz:

Yunis,

I love writing myself so I can't discourage you. If you have language skills, that's a great way to offer your translation or writing services to any publication or website that is trying to reach the Spanish market.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:58 marciabiz

1:58

[Comment From CarmenCarmen: ]

thanks. I think I am getting exploited here.

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:58 Carmen

1:58

[Comment From CarmenCarmen: ]

boss makes me do his laundry

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:58 Carmen

1:59

marciabiz:

Carmen,

Perhaps it's time to start looking for another job. You shouldn't have to do your boss's laundry -- that's for sure!

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:59 marciabiz

1:59

[Comment From YunisYunis: ]

Thanks Marcia .. Any suggestions??

Thursday January 27, 2011 1:59 Yunis

2:01

marciabiz:

Yunis,

You might spend some time researching online publications -- if you see one that has a poor translation, offer your services and maybe they'll hire you.

Also, get involved in an Hispanic marketing organization where you might meet good contacts.

Thursday January 27, 2011 2:01 marciabiz

2:01

Moderator:

for one hour and it is over!

Thursday January 27, 2011 2:01 Moderator

2:02

Moderator:

Thank you Marcia!

Thursday January 27, 2011 2:02 Moderator

2:02

Moderator:

Thanks to all of you for sending your questions.

Thursday January 27, 2011 2:02 Moderator

2:03

marciabiz:

Thanks everyone for your questions. If you need further information, email me at mpounds@sunsentinel.com. Stay strong!

Thursday January 27, 2011 2:03 marciabiz

2:04

KRCW

Looking for a Job? Sun Sentinel career and workplace writer Marcia Pounds answered YOUR questions about finding a job