How to Gather Information About Becoming a Nurse

Hello,
 
My name is Claudia and I would like to become a nurse. The problem is, I am about to turn 28 years old and I have no idea how or where to begin.
 
I was thinking about taking online courses, which would be very convenient, but I read that it might not be the best idea.
 
Help.
 
Claudia

Should I Become a Life Coach?

Hello,
 
I won't belabor this email as to how I came upon your site, but instead ask if you would point me in the best direction to filter out whether the profession of life coach is for me.
 
Last year I lost my husband over in Iraq and currently I'm seeking a new path in which to restart my life. It's to my detriment that in my many years of marriage, 20+ (I'm 42 now), I did not work, nor did I have to. We had no children but ourselves and enjoyed a good life. Nonetheless life changes and in order to move on you must adapt and so this is where you find me.
 
A little of my background might lend a hand. My B.A. is in Psychology and at one time I had thought about becoming a psychologist but frankly my interest is not as Freudian as most therapies and I prefer a more rounded approach working with people on several facets rather than strictly dysfunction. I also hold a B.A. in Business but that, too, I have never utilized. More to the point, I have no interest to move into the business sector unless it has to do with counseling.
 
So, as you can see, my interest is clearly working with people in a therapeutic sort of capacity. To compound this interest I won't deny that providing a good income is key, as well. However, there seems to be such a mirage of information pertaining to this career path and its rewards that I'm not certain what is fluff, if not puff.
 
It's my hope that you can share a minute with me and tell me the best way to go about getting into this profession in the most reputable fashion. Where do I gain formal training and what should I expect from it? I'm also curious whether, if you had to start all over, if you would even do it again or recommend this path and to whom?
 
Kind Regards,

Joanna

New Outlook on Local Job Hunt

Dear Mrs. C. J. Liu,
 
I read your article on "7 Steps to Change Your Job Search Luck" and I was amazed how much of it fits with my job search situation.
 
I am an MSc (in Hydraulics), Executive MBA (from UW - Seattle and the Academy of Economic Studies - Bucharest) and a PhD candidate in Management (working on my dissertation) with 31 years of work experience. Due to the fact that I was considered over-qualified, nobody in the last nine month was willing to hire me. I have tried to be my self employer, in management consulting, but the Romanian market in this field is immature. Unfortunately, over this situation has overlapped a strange illness (tinnitus = continuous noise heard in my left ear), so I am unable to sing or dance, as you recommend in the article. But I still "fight" with life.
 
I felt better reading your ideas. I shall try to follow your recommendations because I feel that are good.
 
Hopefully, I shall not lose my hope!
 
All the best,

Dan

Returning to High Tech Sales

Hello,

I saw one of your articles on PayScale.com thought you had good advice, and found your email address. After receiving a BCOM in Marketing & Management (minor Economics) I spent five years in corporate sales at a couple of different companies.

For the past two years I switched gears and am a product manager at a high tech company. Although my current career is challenging, I miss the constant customer contact that I had with corporate sales. Yet, I don't really want to go back to large based commission roles. I am looking for a transition to something, but can not decide what to do. Any advice?

Thanks,

Graeme

Accounting Jobs: Job Interview Questions

Hello,

I am looking for accounting jobs. Can you tell me some of the current questions asked by the interviewers apart from skills and experience, such as a problem solving questions or what you learned from a certain situation? How should I respond to those questions?

Please can you send me more information on what an employer looks for?

Regards,

Usham

Bad Credit: No Job for One Year

Dear C.J.,

I have been reading some of the blogs I found when Googling, “What type of jobs can I get with bad credit?” I have the same situation as most of the people that have written to you. I have been out of a job for over a year now. I am in the process of filing for bankruptcy.

I have also read that if employers do run credit checks on you and you have bad credit, it may be the reason they turn you down. It also said that it is against the law to base hiring on that so therefore the employer just uses a general let down like: other candidates more closely fit what we are looking for.

So my question is: How do you know if you were qualified for the job, especially if you felt you did good at an interview, scored well on the tests, etc., if they do not specifically tell you why you were not considered? Can you ask them for constructive criticism?

I would have liked to have known whether I needed to polish up on something specifically or was it my bad credit?  Also, once you file bankruptcy does it improve your chances of getting a job that does credit checks since you have officially been relieved of your debts?
 
Any insight to my questions are very much appreciated.
 
Thanks,

Esther

Technology vs. Education: How to Choose a Career Path

Hi,

I'm working as a curriculum developer/trainer (executive grade). I prepare ICT materials for local and British courses for both children and adults. I have a B.Sc. in Teaching Technology (Indian degree) and I'm a final year student of Bachelor of IT (Sri Lankan degree). For my higher studies is it suitable for me to select an MSc (Medical Science) or a MEd (Master of Education)? Which path should I select? Education or technology?

Senurika

How to Transfer Sales Skills to a New Job

Hi CJ,

I hope you don’t mind me emailing you like this.

I'm currently struggling with a bit of a career dilemma that I was hoping you may be able to assist with.

I've been working in IT Sales, in an account manager role, for eight years.

I would like to think I was fairly good at my job. If I wasn't, I would never of lasted this long. But, I'm starting to get stale in this role. Up until now, I've enjoyed it and everything about it, but now hitting my monthly target is becoming a chore. I no longer enjoy the buzz of getting large orders in and am struggling for motivation. There's realistically no where else for me to go in the company. It’s quite small so moving sideways within the organization is virtually a non starter.

I no longer enjoy going to work, and feel a change is needed. However, I'm struggling with what a sales person such as myself is really qualified to do, and what other roles I can realistically look at with a chance of being offered an interview, let alone employment.

Although I would like to think I have plenty of transferrable skills, its hard to know where these can be best utilized and in what field.

If you can offer any advice, big or small, I would be extremely grateful.

Many thanks.

Best regards,

Steve

How to Make It as a Career Coach

C.J.,

I stumbled across an interview of you on the web today. I was looking up life coach salaries and have been interested in the career for some time now. Looking at your website and coaching services. I must say, I really admire you. You seem to offer the kind of service I would like to emulate in a coaching model... one of finding a balance between work and personal life, and finding purpose in your life. 

I have been working for almost five years in operations at an investment bank. I've always thought I wanted an MBA (my father always told me it was a crucial step towards success) but recently I realize I may not want to go to the typical route of a banker or trader. I feel like I need more business experience and perhaps an MBA, like you, if I want to offer a "business" coaching aspect to my market, but I don't want to be a charlatan without the necessary experience. Do you think it's possible I could still pursue the route of a life amd business coach without the same experience you have? 

I'm 28 years old and I'm not sure I can put myself through another 10-15 years of corporate just to give myself the necessary skills to be that type of coach. Taking action now and helping people achieve their goals and dreams as a job makes me tingle when I really think about it. It feels like my true purpose. I do realize my question may be a little much to answer but I was hoping you could shed some light on my internal dilemma on this.  Thank you for any advice you may have to offer. 

Sincerely,

Ryan

Women, Men and Work-Life Balance

CJ,

After reading your post on work-life balance, I had some more questions.

1. In your experience, what is the greatest challenge that the people you talk to face in balancing work and home?

2. Is gender a major factor in maneuvering the work-life landscape?

Thanks for your informative blog.

Sincerely,

Gloria

Suggestions on How to Write a Functional Resume

Hi,

For 25 years I was a clothing designer. 9/11 greatly affected my life and for the past eight years I have been an assistant to the executive director of a university.

I want to return to the clothing industry and don’t know how to assimilate the past eight years into a resume without specifically telling clothing executives where I have been.

Do you have any suggestions? Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Annie

Job Hunt with Six Years of Bad Credit

Dear C.J.,

What happens after six years of bad credit? Since you have experience, I was hoping you could give me some clues as to what you look out for.

Please point me in the right direction. Thank you for your help.

Thanks,

Tony

Bad Credit History Hinders Job in Retail

Dear C.J.,

I am writing you to ask your advice on what can I do to find employment with a poor credit history.

I have been unemployed for some time now - approximately one year. I have tried to find a job in retail but all require a credit check - dreading this situation. I am declining to fill out any more applications in the retail field, and am trying to concentrate on restaurant jobs.

I need to know what types of jobs do not require a credit check.

Please email ASAP, because I need to seriously find a job somewhere.

Thanks a lot and God bless,

Sincerely,

Jason

Stay-at-Home Mom Goes Back to Work

Hello,

I am the proud mother of a 19 month old boy. I've been a stay at home mom since June 2008. I would like to re-enter the job market. In looking at the current economic crisis, I am anxious, depressed and overwhelmed. My last position was in administration in the higher education setting.

I am looking into going back to school for a graduate degree, so that I could pursue a job in a different industry. Do you have any pointers to steer me in the right direction?

Natasha

Advice on Preparing for Job Interview Questions

Dear C.J.,

I read your article, "What's Your Job Interview I.Q.?" and, when I got to question three which said to practice your response to typical interview questions I had to stop and think, “What are the typical interview questions?” Interviews come in many shapes and sizes so how can someone be prepared when they are not sure what question will be thrown at them.

What Education Do You Need to Become a Chef?

Hello,

How much school do you have to have to be a chef? There are so many factors to consider. Would you be kind enough as to give me some pointers on what to look for or avoid?

Any info much appreciated. I really appreciate your help.

Warmest Regards,

Leanne

Starting Over After a Layoff

Hello C.J.,
 
I have attached my resume so you can take a look at my experience and career history. I also attached my referrals and references from past employers and consultants on LinkedIn. I was very athletic in my youth (I am 47 now) and have a love for sports. I suffered an injury in my senior year and my career in athletics, in my mind, went down the drain.

I went right into retail and was successful but was never happy with the hours, nights and weekends. I went back to computer training and attained my Microsoft A+ and Net + certifications. I realized that again I was working nights and weekends, this time doing computer work. I worked with several recruiters and most of them were not very good. I like helping people so I changed careers again and went into recruiting.
 
I have been very successful and enjoy helping and working with folks. The market now is very tight and I was laid off from my last employer due to the economy. I am married and have two children and my wife and I are both unemployed and currently applying for unemployment. I have never had a problem finding work and am in panic mode. As a recruiter I always seemed to know what to say and do to help the person looking for a job. I have been applying, networking, emailing and beating the street to get a job....and I mean any job, just to cover the bills.
 
So now you know all of the details, now to the question. With this economy, what can I do now? Staffing? I do not have a degree for HR or corporate roles. I am at my wits end. I would love to pursue some type of work in sports or for a pro sports team or minor league team. I am not sure how, or if, I can transition.
 
I would appreciate any advice you can offer.
 
Sincerely,
 

Frank

Resume Tips for a Career in Investment Banking

C.J.,

I read your response to my first letter, How to Start a Career in Finance. Thank you for that.

The section about the investment companies (Merrill Lynch) seems to be more in line with what I'm looking for. The first section lends itself to corporate finance which I'm not very interested in. Here is my resume. The objective line is very generic and I change it according the company I'm applying to. I greatly appreciate you taking time out to assist me.
 
Pierre

How to Start in Accounting, Part-Time

Hello,

I visited your website this morning and was motivated to ask you this question. I’m studying to get a career in accounting part-time and would like to know the requirements to start in the financial sector of a company? What qualification must a person have?

Thank you,

Kay-Anne

How Do You Construct a Resume?

Dear C. J.
 
I’ve read your article “What’s Your Job Interview IQ?” on the internet at Yahoo! HotJobs and I liked the points that you mentioned. I would like to ask your opinion and what suggestions you may have. I’ve been working on my resume for some time. I haven’t sent it out yet, and before I do, I would like to know your opinion. I will work on my “Job Interview IQ,” as well..
I thank you so much in advance and I appreciate any comments you may have.
 
Sincerely yours,
Nino

Starting a Career in the Computer Field

C.J.

I am looking to start a career in the computer field, as a programmer, IT, or business application designer. I’m not really sure what I want to do, or even how to begin looking to see which one I would prefer, or if there was another option that I don't even know of. I am currently taking classes to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, but I need to know where to focus my classes? Please help!!!!!!

Jeremy

How to Start a Career in Finance

Dear C.J.,
 
I read about your blog on Payscale.com and wondered if you could possibly help me start a career in finance. I earned my Bachelor of Business Administration degree in December of 2006. My major was Managerial Finance with an emphasis in Investment Analysis. I would prefer to do more analytical work than sales. I don't have any FINRA licensing or insurance licensing. Up until May of this year, I worked as a teller in a bank that did not promote cross selling of products. I have no sales experience but over 6 years of cash handling experience. What kind of entry level finance jobs should I apply for or what particular path should I take that would allow me to gain sponsorship for FINRA licensure and eventually move into an investment analyst or researcher position. I am attaching my resume so that you can look it over and possibly critique it. I realize that you may be extremely busy helping others so I greatly appreciate any time you can give to assist me. Thank you.
 
Pierre Talbot

Getting a New Job With Bad Credit

C.J.,

I retired from a major NYC bank in 2001 and proceeded to open a small business close to my home. After six years, I was forced to close the business because of the bad economy. As a result, I have been looking for a new job for the past seven months. I have submitted more than 100 applications on-line to no avail. Because I have no income, my credit has taken a serious hit. My credit history (36 years) was excellent up until the past 8 months. What can I tell a potential employer if they use a credit report to determine if they will hire me? Do I bring it up during an interview or do I wait to see if they order a credit report?

Thanks,
Jim

Going Back to School for Architecture

C.J.,

I’m thinking of a total change in career. I am currently working as a chef and have done so for 12 years. I am a head chef but my heart has never really been in the job. I am thinking of training to be an architect. I realize that I am far from qualified and will have to do a lot of hard work to achieve this dream. My main fear is that I am 31 and the prospect of going back into education is far from desirable but an obvious must. I would appreciate any advice you may have, as it is as much a psychological battle I am having as an intellectual one.

Thanks,

Aidan

What is the Best Way to Get Your Life Back on Track?

Life Crises Handled: Stop Spinning Out of Control!

A common problem that everyone faces is feeling out of control. This feeling is usually a result of not having a good balance in our life. Visualize a car moving forward with a flat tire – it struggles to make progress and stay on track. The trick to avoid feeling out of control is making sure you have air in your tires and you are rolling right along – living in balance.

How to Achieve Work-Life Balance

Achieving Nirvana: Three Simple Ideas for a Balanced Life at Work and Home

By C.J. Liu

My interest in becoming a life balance coach first started when I had two kids under the age of two. For me, it was one of the most challenging times in my life. I love my kids; they are great. But the sleep deprivation, the new schedule that involved waking up at 5:00 a.m. so I could work out at the gym at 6:00 a.m. then get home at 7:00 p.m. to cook dinner was exhausting. Not to mention the bickering about household chores with my husband.

Networking and Today’s Business

Modern Networking and Today’s Business

By C.J. Liu

So, you want to build a new practice area and are wondering how to make it happen. Whether you are a doctor, lawyer, architect, or life coach, the starting point for building a successful business is the same. All these occupations generally rely on referrals and word-of-mouth marketing, which means building up a base of clients and then encouraging them to refer you to others. While not enjoyable for everyone, networking is still one of the best ways to get referrals.

Motivation in the Workplace

8 Tips for Getting Motivated in Work and Life

By C.J. Liu

Are you having a hard time getting motivated at work or in your job search? You know you need to start a new project or update your resume, but you just can’t garner any energy to make it happen.

Here are eight simple reminders and motivation tips to keep nearby when you need a little extra motivation in the workplace:

Online Social Networking - Pros and Cons

Covering Your Private Parts – Beware of Facebook

By C.J. Liu

Today, almost anything can be found online about you, especially if you are on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or any other social networking site. While these online social networking tools may be convenient when finding out the latest and greatest about your pals, they also give employers an inside look at your private life. Few prospective employers will be impressed with pictures of you guzzling beer with your buddies. You may want to think twice before you post comments and pictures if you are in the job market again.

Caught Stealing from Work

I Was Caught Stealing Money from Work – Now What?

Hi,

I was dismissed from my job because I took some cash that I really needed and was going to put it back but I got caught. I also took it because I was angry at my boss and I know without a doubt it was wrong and I learned a lot. I would never ever do it again but now I need to have a new job and I have an interview tomorrow with another office in the same field which I love and I really want a fresh start. I have been telling employers I'm still employed so they won’t call my employer. Should I say that I am not keeping my current job? And, if so, why should I tell them I'm leaving and, if not, what should I say for fear they will call my previous employer? I was there for 5.5 years and had great attendance and was great at my job.

Thanks for the advice,

T

5 Steps for Surviving Job Loss

Coping Amongst Chaos – 5 Positive Steps to Surviving Job Loss

By C.J. Liu

The hardest part about getting laid off, or even staying within a company that is going through transition, is coping with change. It’s human nature to go towards stability and safety and move away from change and uncertainty. While it may feel uncomfortable being in a state of flux and the unknown, the more you accept that “it is what it is,” versus fight it, the less pain you will create for yourself.

Power in the Workplace

The Positive and Negative Aspects of Power in the Workplace

By C.J. Liu

When most people think of power it’s generally accompanied by dark images like Darth Vader. It’s funny because power can be a good thing, too, like the power we have in a democracy. Generally, it’s not power, but what people do with the power they have, that gives power a bad rap.

Writing a First Resume

Good Morning,   

I was just reading your interview tips on Yahoo! HotJobs. As I've just graduated college last week, I was wondering if you could give me a tip on the best format for a resume. Your advice would be greatly appreciated.
 
Thank you,
Tamisha

How to Handle Salary Questions

Tough Interview Questions: Salary Range and Reasons for Leaving

Hello,

I read your article about "What's Your Job Interview IQ?"

I have two questions about job interviews.

1.    What should be my answer if the Interviewer asks the straight question "What is your current salary?" Most of the time the intent of this interview question is to judge what it will take to hire the applicant. Most interviewers and on-line applications are always asking this question.

2.    What should be my answer to, "Why do you want to leave your current job?" if the reason is for a better position and compensation?

Ajay

Finding a New Career with a Criminal Record

Hi C.J.,
 
I just read your article on transitioning into a new job. It was a breath of fresh air. My husband is a college graduate with a B.S. in Business Administration and a minor in Economics. He never put his degree to work.

He began working over 25 years ago with the state juvenile system here in Florida as a juvenile detention officer. He worked 23 years before resigning. He resigned because of the low morale and working conditions. He regrets this hasty decision because he’s been unemployed since then and that was February of 2005. I have been trying to encourage and empower him to go forth and do something different, even perhaps try using his degree that he worked so hard for and never got any work experience using.

Now at age 56 he needs a job, and has been applying for all types. He has a blemish on his criminal history that occurred 35 years ago for shoplifting an item worth $200.00. Since then he has paid his debt. He went to college and has worked for 23 years. This is horrible when you got people who commit more serious crimes and come back after being incarcerated with good jobs.

Please give us any advice that could perhaps steer us in the right direction. I even suggested working with teaching, starting as a sub, but he became discouraged when our system wouldn’t hire him because of that old charge.
 
A concerned wife,
 
Geneva

Changing Careers for More Money

Ms. Liu,

I read your article online, "Ask the Career Coach" on Payscale.com. I found it very interesting and helpful and will practice the steps you mentioned in order to find the job of my dreams.

I am very dissatisfied at my current job. I am an office manager for a cigar distributor company. It is a small company; I am in the office most of the time by myself. I oversee all operations of the company. My role includes everything from answering phones, making sales, taking care of the books and conducting weekly meetings with sales staff in different states to packaging and shipping cigars, etc.

My employer is also in the process of starting a construction company, for which I am preparing all related documents and applications. I used to work with my current employer in a construction company he used to own prior to starting the cigar business.

I am unhappy because I don't see any room for growth any time soon unless the construction company kicks off in the next few months. But I am thinking of now; I need change now. The salary is not bad but I want more and I don't foresee getting more any time soon.

Also, my husband owns a subcontractor company. It’s small but he has been in business for over 10 years. He owns the company along with his mother and brother. I help sometimes since I do have experience in construction, but can only help so much. I do not want them to feel like I want to take over. So I decided to start my own company with my husband to do jobs on the side with both of us keeping our current positions. That did not work since the license he has is already under his company's name. Now I would need a license in order for us to be able to pull permits under our company's license. So we are stuck in that sense and I am very disappointed that it did not go far.

I am attaching my resume in hopes that you may help with some advice and or guidance. I would really appreciate it.

Thank you very much. I look forward to your opinion soon.

Patty

Questions and Answers for an Interview Regarding Salary

Hi C.J. Liu,
 
I have read your interview tips on Yahoo! I would appreciate it if you would please answer my question.
 
Q - If an interviewer asks how much salary I am looking for, how should I reply?
 
Thanks & best regards,
 
Tahir, Pakistan

Job Interview: What to Say About Being Fired

Hello,

I read your advice on the Internet about how to ace an interview. If you do not tell the interviewers that you got fired from your last job and they hire you, then if they find out that you had gotten fired, wouldn't you lose your job anyway?

Bonnie

Deciding Between IT Career Paths

Dear Ms. CJ Liu,

My name is Raj. I am from India. I got your email address while I was reading the Career Coach section in Payscale.com. I also visited your website mywholelife.net and read about you.

I am sending this email to know whether my career decision is correct. I am not sure whether my mind needs assistance in making a decision or an emotional tap for my decision.

I have six years of experience in IT. The first two years were as a computer service person, one year as a systems administrator for Windows in a small firm and, for the last three years, I played dual roles: a systems administrator for Windows as well a lead for a Java software development project. As I had a good rapport with the management (it is a small firm), my innovative ideas for a Java software product were recognized and I was paid double for dual responsibilities. Due to a common reason in this world, my present employer is going to close the firm.

I am in a dilemma whether to go for another job with the system administrator role or the Java lead role, as I could excel in either. And I am sure I won’t get a chance to work for both as I did with my present employer.

As a systems administrator I could get job in software development companies, software support companies, operating systems and product support companies, BPOs, KPOs, banking, educational sectors and as a trainer, too. Whereas as a Java professional I could get limited space and minimal options. My mind justifies system admin role as my career but I am a bit confused as I am going to get laid off.

I need your words about the requirements in the job market. My next step should be strong and the career path I choose should be reliable. As I am going to get married soon, I wish my decision shouldn't affect my partner’s mental peace as she is my soul.

Awaiting Your Email,

Raj

Should I Become a Registered Nurse or Healthcare Administrator?

CJ,

I currently work in a call center as a leader intern - basically filling in for team managers when they are out and working on any special projects that may come up. I am searching for a job that can lead to a long-term career that I would enjoy doing. I am torn between registered nursing and health care administration. Salary plays a huge part because I am a single parent, while the hours are important as well.

- Toya

Seeking an IT Job Position

CJ,

I came across your column this morning as I was surfing around trying to find...a job.  It's almost 2 years that I've been unemployed and I cannot for the life of me figure out what the problem is. Attached is a resume. My experience is pretty good, I'm hard working and have been diligent in the job hunting process. I'm really wondering if maybe I've been in the wrong profession all along as it seems there's some type of wall in front of me, keeping me from a job that works with my experience. Nothing else seems to make sense, it's almost like life is saying, “You've been going down the wrong path. Time for something else.” If that's the case, what??? 

Any help would be much appreciated!

Thanks,

Kent

Starting Over in a New Career

Greetings,

I just read your online article, “What’s Your Job Interview IQ?” I was very impressed with both the questions and answers. It is all very helpful information.

I was wondering if you could offer some advice. I am a mature woman. I am very professional in both my appearance and my work ethic. As a result of a merger, my job was outsourced. I took time off, perhaps a wee bit too much time, and my skills got a little rusty. I am currently working as a receptionist. I desperately want to explore a more challenging opportunity but do not know how to go about transitioning from a receptionist position. My employment history is mostly in the administrative, contract and call center area. I just earned my Associates in Business from an online college and now I have school loans due for a degree I am not using. I feel like I have just wasted my time, energy and money.

Can you suggest where I begin to move my life and career in an upward direction? I need to begin to prepare myself but honestly don’t know how.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

- Yvonne

You Can Ask the Career Coach: C.J. Liu

Hi, everyone, and welcome to my blog!

I’m really excited to hear from all of you. I work as a whole life coach in Seattle, Washington. I find that life often doesn’t offer a clean separation between our work and personal life, which is why I am a whole life coach. Prior to coaching, I spent the last 20 years working for Fortune 500 companies using my MBA and finance skills. Over the last five years I have become a yoga teacher, trained mediator, and have broadened my focus so that my career path is more like a spiritual path. Gaining softer skills has offered a nice compliment to my previous business experience and has brought me closer to my Eastern roots.