Hot Jobs: The Hoosier Hot 50

As far back as I can remember, Indiana has published the Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs booklet, containing the 50 jobs growing fastest in the Indiana economy. Each job contains its own page, as well as projections of the number of positions available, average salary, and a brief job description. The higher the job is ranked, the greater the demand for workers in that field.

A variety of jobs are listed in the Hoosier Hot 50, from Electrician to Social Worker. Each has a place in the Indiana job market and has a growing number of openings. Those looking into potential careers may want to consider flipping through a copy of the Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs, as each job is projected to be in need in coming years.

For those who have not yet decided on a major or career path, the Office of Career Services offers testing to discover a career or major path that matches one's personality!

Virtual Job Fairs: The Evolution of the Job Search

The Job Fair is perhaps the most basic of job search strategies; you go, hand a few employers your résumé, make small talk, interview, and hopefully receive a job offer. The game has changed, though: instead of driving to a job fair, you now can log on and meet employers using an avatar. The process is much the same as the traditional job fair, but for the use of avatars and digital documents. Many virtual job fairs are available. Some will run on a 24/7 basis, while others may only last a few days and between certain hours. The number of postings available and qualified candidates may influence the duration of an online job fair. One should be wary of job fairs that require a fee or any other form of payment. A job fair should be an opportunity for employers and candidates to connect, not an opportunity for a third party to make money. Some virtual reality sites like Second Life allow members to create avatars and interview online. The virtual job fair is a great tool for those looking to interview for positions in other states and those who wish to save on traveling expenses. Second Life and other virtual sites that host job fairs are beneficial to those seeking employment. The job search has evolved: virtual job fairs are bringing employment into the twenty-first century.

The Subtle Art of Interviewing: What Every Candidate Should Know

The interview is probably the most frightening and anxiety-inducing part of seeking employment. Candidates wait in taupe rooms with ugly corporate carpeting, sweating profusely and nervously attempting to make themselves look comfortable - but not too comfortable - until the interviewer arrives. Standing and shaking hands follow the arrival. Does any of this sound familiar to you? If so, I am not at all surprised. In fact, this scenario has applied to me in my own job search. The interview is a nerve-wracking event with the power to make or break a bid for employment. An interviewer will often know within the first thirty seconds if you are the candidate he wants, or if he should look elsewhere. That being said, there are some ground rules for interviews. First, shake the interviewer's hand. A firm, polite handshake makes a great first impression. Second, dress for the job. Working at the local burger place does not require a three-piece Armani suit, while a job at a Fortune 500 company would be more easily attained in a suit than a pair of denim jeans and a polo. Third, speak carefully and with meaning. Employers want to know that you will put thought into your words and represent the business well. Questions will also be beneficial to the interview, as the employer learns more about your interests and concerns in the business. When the interview ends, thank the interviewer for his/her time and shake hands again. The last - and potentially most important - part of the interview does not happen during the interview. The candidate should always send the interviewer and/or employer a note of thanks for his/her consideration in giving the interview. This can be done electronically (via e-mail, fax, phone, etc.) or by mail (the traditional "thank you" notecard). I know of an interviewer who refuses to consider candidates that do not send a note of thanks. I also know of an example where a person was hired simply because he was the only person to send the employer a thank you. What you do before, during, and after the interview count tremendously toward your chances of being hired. Do not overlook the customs and courtesies attached to the interview process, as your actions may directly result in employment. If you have any questions about thank you notes, interviews, résumés, or anything else career-related, please come to Career Services!