Out of work? Time to update your job skills!

By Dave Cortese, MediaNews Group

Being unemployed or losing your job in this economy is a frightening ordeal. The feelings that come with the situation are all strong emotions and include anger, fear and despair. Having to pay a mortgage or rent and paying more for groceries doesn’t lower the stress.

In today’s job seeking market there are many different search tools and options out there. It seems like most people rely on the Internet. The Internet can get your resume out to hundreds of recruiters and employers. It’s relatively easy and extremely time efficient. Of course what’s easy for you is easy for many others. I am certain that thousands of others are sending their resumes to the same sites and companies. Studies have shown that the best way of increasing your chances of being hired is by leaving no stone unturned and most importantly by networking. Nothing beats having friends searching for you as well!

Here are a few key tips to put you ahead of the competition:

Update your skills

While you are looking for a new job, it is often a very good time to also update your job skills or perhaps learn new skills that would translate to a different industry. There are numerous excellent community colleges that are ready and willing to help you find new skills or a new career path. These colleges have great programs for career advancement, whether it’s a technical certification, computer applications, or business careers. If you’re interested in advancing your skills and education, find the right school that works with your schedule today.

Networking continuously

Networking is a vital part of any job search. Networking events are happening continuously in the community. Check with your local chamber of commerce and visit community Web sites. Look for local job fairs and target the companies that are in your area of interest. One of the latest innovations is an online job fair. You can browse the exhibitors, ask questions and go at your pace in your own time. They are open 24/7. The key is to get out and talk to people. You never know who might hold the key to your next job. And remember, always keep a fresh stack of your networking business cards with you!

Government and County assets

Government Websites have most of their jobs posted and updated weekly. In fact many county and city libraries have a JobView Kiosk. At these kiosks, you can browse jobs, apply and even post your resume online. It is a free service provided for job seekers. Many local libraries also offer computer stations for you to access good employment information.

TOP TEMP

Congratulations to Shannon Parker for being selected Murray Resources’ Top Temp for the Month of September. Shannon is recognized for her strong work ethic, strong customer skills and her willingness to be flexible and adaptable to her work schedule. She has consistently exceeded our customers’ expectations. Thanks Shannon! Your hard work has not gone unnoticed!

Shannon and all future Top Temps will receive a $25 gift card to Target!

HOT JOBS

Backend .Net Web Developers Needed! Houston area client is seeking several Backend Web Developers to work from home for a 6 month + project! Required experience includes 3-6 years of development and/or C# experience. Must be versed in ASP.NET, ADO.NET, AJAX and have experience in Web Applications using Microsoft Technologies and .NET framework such as C#, VB, VB.NET, ASP, ASP.NET, ADO.NET, AJAX, MVC, WCF, WWF, LINQ, Web Forms, Win Forms, Web Controls, Web Services, Web Service Security, MS-SQL Server 2000/2005 and other Internet related HTML/DHTML VBScript, JavaScript technologies. Must also have experience developing Web based Applications using ASP.NET and C #, Java Script, CSS and SQL Server and have working experience in developing Object Oriented applications using Visual Studio .NET, Visual C#. Preferred experience in Database design and working knowledge of Telerik components. $35-40/hour. Please contact Christi Ivey (civey@murrayresources.com) or Linda Cooper (Lcooper@murrayresources.com) for more information.

Born to sell? Some people just have a natural sales personality, and if that describes you, you’ll thrive in this west Houston financial products firm that focuses on the fixed annuity, life and long term care industries. As a Sales Associate, you’ll be actively involved in building new business and in servicing and growing existing accounts via heavy cold calling and telephone follow up. Ideal candidates will be degreed and have a minimum of 2 years prior sales experience in life insurance. We are seeking outgoing individuals that are high energy, hungry to succeed, a quick leaner and very computer literate. Compensation package includes a base salary + commission/bonus potential and excellent benefits. This is a starting position in the sales department of this company. Successful individuals will be quickly promoted from this position! Kimberly Shelton (kshelton@murrayresources.com) is ready to answer any questions.

This North Houston Fiberglass Piping Company is in need of a Mechanic. These mechanics must have their own tools and be working 12-hour days with rotating schedules. They must also work nights and overtime as needed and MUST be able to work with pneumatic, hydraulic and rotating equipment. Welding and working with fabrications will be required, as will reading prints and working with boiler & heat exchange equipment. This is a great, well established company with good benefits and a future! $36K – $41K. Please contact Linda Cooper (Lcooper@murrayresources.com) with questions.

North Houston area client is expanding – over 185 branches spanning the country. We are assisting our client in hiring 3-6 Accounts Receivable Clerks with at least 4+ years of prior experience. This position is responsible for maintaining the accounts receivable function in a timely and accurate manner. Candidates must be able to perform the necessary tasks to maintain the accounts receivable records, match and verify invoice summaries between multiple systems, verify details of transactions – such as funds received and total account balances, prepare monthly reports and assist with collection activity on past due receivables. $30-35K annually DOE. Christi Ivey (civey@murrayresources.com) is the contact for further information on these openings.

We are seeking highly skilled Administrative Assistants for long term contract positions at a large technical company in Westchase. These positions are contract with the long term potential of going full time. Great work environment and experience to be gained! Competitive pay rate based upon amount of experience. To be considered, we are seeking a minimum of 3-5 years mid to advanced level admin support experience. Strong proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access a plus), Outlook and Visio. Prior experience with both domestic and international travel arrangements required. A 4-year degree or some college preferred. Excellent work ethic a MUST! Please contact Lisa Durham (Ldurham@murrayresources.com) for additional information.