Good ROI
The term “return on investment” (ROI) means getting something worth your money, no matter what that is. A resume needs a good ROI as well. One rule of thumb for your resume is to ensure that it earns revenue in excess of the amount of money your company has spent on your training. Write your resume in terms of wording your successes effectively.
For example, a person in sales could mention bringing in a key client for the company. If the client contributed $10 million to your company’s bottom line, then that will be a demonstration of your ability to close profitable sales. It also shows your value to potential employers. That’s precisely how you want prospective employers to think of you – in terms of how much value you bring to them.
When it comes to demonstrating numerical success, you have several options. You can use

  • Percentages
  • Amount of revenue increase
  • Profitability ratio
  • Etc.

It’s always nice to be able to illustrate your success with hard numbers.
If you refrain from getting bogged down in your duties and draw attention to your successes instead, then you’ll be able to clearly demonstrate to potential employers why you are the right candidate for the job. Focus on results. Make sure your resume doesn’t look like you copied your job description off a company website. Use hard and verifiable facts about how you created success in past positions. This will separate you from the competition.
If you’re not sure how to use hard facts, go back and read some performance reviews. What did your boss consider your strengths? If your performance review shows high praise for your ability to communicate effectively with clients, you can use that in your resume. You can incorporate that information to make yourself stand out from the crowd.
But what if you can’t do that? Then try to come up with accomplishments you made that were significant improvements to your company’s culture and overall work environment. Did you improve work efficiency? Did your customer service skills result in happier customers and fewer complaints? Think along those lines.
I hope this gives you a better idea of how you can demonstrate ROI to potential employers. Think in terms of numerical successes will clear examples. You’ll soon have the job of your dreams.

Are You The Type To Get Fired?

Career & Workplace

Getting The Boot
Believe it or not, there are actually some people who just have the knack for getting fired (I bet you can name a couple of people like that yourself!). Alternatively, there are others who never get fired. What is the difference between the two and which type are you?
Companies today want to grow and they can’t do that if they have some people who are making it harder. So, they will get rid of them and replace them with those who bring something to the table and will help that company grow.
There are certain types that companies will fire. They include:

  1. The Naysayer – these types will always find a reason not to make a change, whether it’s for the better or not. They like the old phrase “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”. Unfortunately, many past businesses thought like this, but they are no longer in business.
  2. The Whiner – This type will always complain about a new duty or an overall office change. They are the ones who can breed discontent in the workplace by making statements such as “I don’t get paid enough to do that.” Ugh. The whiner will always be a negative in the workplace.
  3. The Grouch – This person will know everything there is to know, know how to do it better, and try to tell everyone in the company how to do it better than they can themselves, even if it’s not in their area of expertise. They know how to do it all, just ask them.

Any of the above personality types will get fired eventually. They can take a company down pretty fast. If you are one of these types, change your attitude at work to one who is willing to go above and beyond the call of duty, be willing to make changes in the workplace, work overtime if necessary, just to name a few.
The economic times call for all employees to do what they can to help a business survive. The business, in turn, will keep working you so that you have money to put food on the table.

Unemployed? Need Money? Rent Yourself!

Erin's MusingsProfessional ResumesSuccess Strategies



I keep hearing how the economy is forcing people to tighten their purse strings this Christmas as many won’t be able to afford to buy presents for their loved ones. But guess what? YOU CAN!
This morning I caught a snippet of, “Good Morning, America” and a segment called, “Show Me the Money: Make Extra Cash by Renting out Your Stuff.”
Did you know that people all over the country are renting out their stuff? There are websites devoted to helping people rent out their things– rentnotbuy.com (I found a horse barn, travel trailer, and corn roaster!), us.zilok.com  (sewing machine, projector, popcorn machine, 6′ ladder!). Think of the extra money you could make for Christmas!
The news woman in the segment wanted to see if she could rent everything she needed for a day trip in New York. She rented a car $65/day, a cooler $10, a FRIEND-yes, I said FRIEND $50, and even (ick) a bathroom in someone’s house! You can literally rent yourself out as someone’s ‘friend’. Only friendship, nothing else.  If you live in a metropolis, this might be a great idea as you could be a city guide of sorts. Are you seeing dollar signs? One couple in the story rented A DOG for $5 a day.
If you need extra cash for the holidays, consider renting out your stuff. I’m looking around my house to see what I can find… hmmm… anyone want to rent books? A kitten? A power screwdriver (I’m sure my husband won’t mind… 😉 ), or a bike? I can help.
 
 

How to Take the Plunge and Start Your Own Business

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January is the time of year when lots of ambitious entrepreneurs decide to start their business. Starting a business can be a risky proposition, but it’s always exciting to start out on your own and let yourself be the one making the decisions. In order to have a successful business venture you need the right resources and help, including checklists, tools and services you will need.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, make sure you have everything in line before your business is up and running. There is a lot of groundwork that needs to be laid before you can even find your first customer, so make sure you have everything lined up before you start your business.

  • Create your businesses identity

You need something that sets you apart, and your logo and brand image are what represents your business. They are the most recognizable, tangible part of your business. Before you start a business you need to create a unique, standout logo for your business identity.

  • Select your legal status

Depending on how your business will be structured, you will need to form a legal structure. Some of the most common legal statuses are incorporated (Inc.) and limited liability corporations (LLC). Decide what type of business model is right for you business before you begin.

  • Get some customers online

Your potential customers are out there…online. You need to create a solid website, have it submitted to search engines and even start some small advertising campaigns. If you can establish an online presence, your business will see sales in no time.

  • Paying your employees

There are payroll services available that will calculate checks and taxes; it’s one of the easiest ways to pay employees. You can find plenty of suppliers online that will make it easier to write paychecks all on your own.

  • Manage your finances, seriously!

Make sure you keep an eye out on your finances, money does not grow on trees but it sure as heck burns like them. You can blow through a pile of cash quickly without even paying any necessary bills or expenditures. Get a solid accountant or software that will manage your finances correctly.

  • Enable credit card transactions for your company

Look up some merchant services account companies. They enable you to run a credit card online, through you computer or over the phone. It’s a simple process that doesn’t require that much information from you, but really helps out with generating revenue. Most people pay for goods and services online through credit cards, they aren’t shoving cash in their modem, so make sure you have the ability to process their transaction. You might also consider PayPal as they also have merchant services for a monthly fee and a transaction fee. Your bank may also provide a merchant service with less fees (mine does… I just made the switch- what a savings!).

  • Have a brick and mortar store

If your business requires it, have a physical location, but if you’re starting an online company a website is all you need. Just have point-of-sale equipment so that you can process payments as they come through the store. Tracking and maintaining customer records allow for faster processing times, this allows you to estimate future expenditures.
Having and running your own business has its ups and downs but in the end, if answering only to yourself is a strong motivator for you, then I would say GO FOR IT!


Many executives who are looking for an opportunity to receive their Masters degree without impinging on their current responsibilities are turning to Executive MBA’s. These unique programs offer professionals a curriculum that fits neatly into their professional world.  The programs are designed for a group setting and in most cases, a group of students will begin and complete the program together.  The short length of the program, typically two years, is also advantageous.  Still, many professionals wonder about executive MBA’s:  are they needed and what’s the value?

Executive MBA programs are similar to more traditional MBA programs. Courses include advanced finances, accounting, management, statistics, information systems and marketing.  In the competitive world of upper management and executive positions, obtaining an advanced degree is often a necessity.  The nature of the executive MBA makes this possible for those who otherwise would not be able to.
People who are attracted to the Executive MBA program are varied. Most share a desire to grow professionally and who do not have the time to complete a more traditional program.  In most cases, EMBA candidates have ten or more years experience in their given field.  Individual schools may have a variety of other requirements as well.  These may include professional recommendations, GMAT scores and a complete professional resume.
Obtaining an executive MBA can have a large impact on your career. The degree represents another level of experience and sophistication.  Advanced knowledge and new skills allow you to expand your roles.  In a world that is competitive on a global nature, this experience and these skills can be invaluable. For self-employed individuals, the degree is equally useful.  It will provide you with yet another platform from which to launch future business endeavors and successes.
Price may be a concern when deciding whether to obtain your executive MBA. It is true that the cost can seem quite steep; however, the price of the degree is an investment in your future. In some cases, it may be possible to defray the cost by working with your employer.  Even if this is not the case, understanding the inherent benefits of an MBA and an executive MBA in particular, often makes the price of the degree well worthwhile.
Determining if an executive MBA degree is ideal for you is a personal decision. The price and time commitment often seem steep.  Still, the benefits and the potential for future job growth and potential increased earnings often make working towards this degree a simple decision for many professionals.
If you are considering working towards an EMBA, discuss the matter with your employer. Doing so may help you defray some of the costs.  It will also give you an idea of what benefits you can hope to reap upon completing your degree.


There are jobs, and then there are things you love to do—that you wish were jobs. But do you know how to get paid for doing what you love to do, not just a piddling boring job?

Believe it or not, being paid for something that you love to do is entirely possible. You simply have to find a way to do it, and, with some careful planning, you can do it.

First, decide what it is you love to do. Is it knitting, carpentry, or even computer work? Some people love to plan and cater events; others love to provide rides for people.

Once you have decided what it is that you want to do, start to look at it as something that you might like as a job—to build into a business. What supplies and/or tools will you need? Will you need a vehicle, or not? Start to look around at possible places to get your supplies at a cheaper rate than you might at the local stores. Discount stores exist, and even if they are not nearby, perhaps it would be worth the cost of shipping to have the supplies sent to you.

Your potential customer base is another issue to think about. Consider what it is that you are going to be doing, and decide how many people would pay you for it.

Event planners, for example, are absolutely needed in cities like New York City or Washington, DC. However, the need for an event planner may not exist in Gold Coast, Oregon. Be aware of the need for your skill.

Now that you do know how to get paid for doing what you love—or the basics of it—consider some finer points. Advertising yourself so that your business will do well can be an issue. Whether your advertising will cost a lot to begin with is up to you.

Should your business be something like a virtual assistant, take advantage of cheap online directories to advertise yourself. Go to freelancing sites to find jobs that you can bid on to start out as a virtual assistant, and build your resume’.

Classified ads in the newspaper will work—but only in your local area unless you use a major newspaper. Consider other options as well.  If you are going to want to do one-on-one work, such as driving for people, don’t forget to employ word-of-mouth as a resource.

Take advantage of using the people that you know for suggestions. Do they know someone that needs a driver, or an event planned, and would be willing to recommend you?

Build a website, pure and simple. Use it so that you can know more about how to build to get paid for doing what you love. If you are willing to come to someone’s home to fix their computer, tell about your skills and prices for your help on the website. Add a blog to it, to chronicle your experiences.

Being paid for something that you love isn’t too hard—you just have to plan it out well. Dig in with some determination as well, and success will be yours.

What Degrees Earn the Most Return in Terms of Pay?

Career & WorkplaceJob SearchSalary


As students near graduation from college, or are starting back to class, more often than not their thoughts turn financial. Whether they chose a major with an end career in mind or they use their college education as a springboard for new opportunities, all students must consider their return on investment. With the cost of higher education averaging anywhere from $9,000 – $35,000 per year, a lucrative life after graduation is becoming even more important. In a competitive economy, having a profitable degree from a highly sought after field of knowledge could be the key in gaining career success. What degrees bring in the big bucks? We’ve listed some below. All salary information comes from the 2008 NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers) salary survey.
Engineering
Not surprisingly, engineering majors in every category earn an average of $60,000 their first year after college. Chemical engineers are paid the most, working for a variety of companies in different fields including manufacturing, healthcare, and business. Chemical engineers design equipment and develop products. Electrical engineers rank second, with an average starting salary of around $55,000. Electrical engineers focus on the design and implementation of equipment used in all aspects of life- automobiles, aircraft, and electrical utilities. Both of these majors apply to a variety of different fields, contributing to the overall success of their earning potential. Mechanical engineers are a close third, with an average starting salary of $54,000. Mechanical engineers are also employed in a number of different industries ranging from agricultural to business.

Computer Science
As our society becomes more and more reliant on the internet and the advancements in computer related technologies and networks, working knowledge of the systems becomes a valuable tool. Computer science majors make an average of $53,000 their first year out of college. This number does include the entrepreneurs who take their computer science background and apply it to business models, advancing technologies and expanding the horizon of development.
Economics
Business markets are highly profitable, and graduates with a thorough knowledge of economics rank high in earnings potential. The average starting salary of a first year economics graduate is around $47,800. Most economics majors work in data research or consulting, and many work for the federal and state governments.
Management Information Systems
Students with an MIS degree work in all facets of business organization. They analyze businesses and contribute to a more efficient management structure. These graduates typically start in the mid $40,000 range their first year after graduation.
Finance and Accounting
Finance and accounting grads have many different options in a plethora of fields. The type of work is varied but always in demand. These positions have very valuable knowledge in intricate areas and generally start at $46,200 their first year out of school.
Business Administration and Management
This is also a lucrative field, as titans of industry are recognized by the efficacy in business management. This major is consistently one of the most popular, and for good reason- business grads can work almost anywhere! The average starting salary is $43,500 for these students, with a chance to accrue more wealth over the length of their employment term.
Keep in mind that a student’s ultimate return on investment is subjective. Yes, these types of degrees offer access to monetarily profitable careers, but it is also important to consider the subjective and completely independent determination of wealth- something that is measured differently by each person.

How to Turn Limp Affirmations Into Mantras for Success!

Success Strategies

Ed’s Note: Here is another wonderful article by my favorite success coach, Jack Canfield, author of Chicken Soup for the Soul and the Dream Big success series.As most of you know, applying the Law of Attraction has completely changed my life. Jack explains it in a simple, easy-to-use way. Hope you have some takeaways from this article that you can apply to your life. As always, enjoy. ~ Erin

“How to Turn Limp Affirmations into Mantras for Success!”


To affirm something is simply to declare that it is true. So, creating and using affirmations should be a breeze, right?
Actually, the true art of the affirmation is both subtle and profound. Despite the popularity of this technique, some people use affirmations that are bland and perhaps even self-defeating.
When creating your affirmation, remember that even minor variations in wording can make a huge difference in the results you get. Since your words literally have the power to create your circumstances, invest a few minutes now to take your affirmation skills to a higher level.
Consider the following statement:
I will quit smoking with ease and joy, remembering the effects on my physical and mental health and preparing to live a longer life.
By using the guidelines found below, you can transform limp affirmations like that into mantras for manifesting a huge change in your life!
The following points are key:
FIVE GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW
1) Enter the “now”
Start your affirmation by entering the present tense. Take the condition you desire and declare it to be already true.
2) Be positive
Our sample affirmation keeps the focus on smoking—the condition that you do not want. Instead, shine a light on what you do want—to be smoke-free.
A related reminder: Our subconscious mind skips the word not. So, delete this word from your affirmations. “I am not afraid of public speaking” gives us the message that you are afraid. Use, “I feel at ease as I speak in public.”
3) Be concise
Shorter is better. Affirmations with fewer words are often easier to recall, especially in situations when you feel some stress. Rhyming makes your affirmations even more memorable. For example, “I am feeling alive at 185.”
4) Include action
Whenever possible, affirm yourself as a person who takes action. For example: “I am gratefully driving my new Porsche along an open highway.” Action engages the Law of Attraction, creating new results in our lives and opening us to further inspiration.
5.) Include a feeling word
Powerful affirmations include content and emotion. Content describes the specific outcome that you desire. Emotion gets to the heart of how you feel about that outcome. For a more potent affirmation, add both elements.
Consider this affirmation:
“I am supporting my children to fully come forward into the world.”
The content of this statement is clear. Yet it lacks an emotional charge. Breathe life into this affirmation by adding an active expression of feeling:
“I am lovingly supporting my children and encourage them to fully express their unique talents and gifts.”
You will know that you have a powerful affirmation when you feel a surge of emotional energy. The force of feeling jumpstarts you into action.
AN AFFIRMATION MAKEOVER
Now get some direct experience with “affirmation transformation.” Return to the first example mentioned in this article:
“I will quit smoking with ease and joy, remembering the effects on my physical and mental health and preparing to live a longer life.”
Playing with the guidelines listed serves up some more exciting options, such as:
“I am breathing effortlessly with lungs that are pure and clean.”
“I am celebrating how easily I breathe through strong, healthy lungs.”
Also consider the following affirmations on a variety of topics:
“I am joyfully celebrating my graduation from college with a master’s degree.”
“I am effectively delivering my first talk to an audience of over 1,000 people who affirm my message with a standing ovation.”
“I am confidently checking the balance of my bank account as I make a deposit of $1,000,000.”
“I am walking up on stage to receive my first Emmy award and receiving a roar of applause.”
When you’re satisfied with the wording of your affirmation, start using it right away.
Repeat your affirmations at least three times daily—first thing in the morning, midday, and just before you go to sleep. Regular repetition will gently return your focus to manifesting the life of your dreams.
© 2010 Jack Canfield
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Are you “stuck” in this area?
If you’d like me to personally help you clarify your vision for the year, align your goals with your purpose, and develop a detailed action plan to turn your dream into reality, you can meet with me in Dallas, San Francisco, Seattle or Boston.
www.TheSuccessPrinciplesWorkshop.com
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Jack Canfield, America’s #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you’re ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com