What To Do If Youre Not Passionate About Anything - TheJobNetwork

What To Do If Youre bedrngnis Passionate About Anything - TheJobNetworkYou hear a bunch of people all around you talking about their passion and following their bliss, but all you hear is panic. What is your bliss? What if you dont have one? googletag.cmd.push(function() googletag.display(div-gpt-ad-1467144145037-0) ) Do you feel that everything you do is grey and lusterless? Do you find work boring? Is everything just kind of blah? Maybe you feel that you cant be good at anything or passionate because you arent super talented or great at anything. Well thats just not the case. Its never too late to figure out what matters most to you, and to live a life of passion.Here are a few strategies to combat the meh feelings that currently fill your life.1. Shift your view.A little perspective goes a long way. Release yourself from all the negative voices in your head holding you back and keeping you stuck.2. Think strategically.Figure out whats causing you the most frustration and dissatis faction. Isolate that thing and abflug working towards bringing it down. All the while, start keeping a notebook of things that give you joy. And while youre at it, start asking yourself what you wanted to be when you grew up. Why cant you be that now? Start dreaming again.3. Get healthy.Your health is a major source of your wellbeing. Make sure youre doing everything you can to be in your prime. Eat right, exercise, stay active. Make sure you sleep and make time for self-care. Get rid of toxic patterns and relationships.4. Stay curious.A great way to figure out what you want to devote your life to is to figure out what interests you most. If you havent hit upon it yet, that might be because you havent seen it yet. Start reading and being more open to new things. You never know where your passion might turn up.5. Think for yourself.Dont just follow what the herd decides is cool. Figure out what you actually like. Dabble in all sorts of things. Push your comfort zone. Try new things more than once. If you like them, keep doing what youre doing until you start to make some forward progress. If you dont, cut your losses and move on. You might even find you meet new and deeply important friends when you start committing your time to things you truly enjoy.6. Be brutally honest.Ask yourself the tough questions about your unhappiness. The challenging soul searching and emotional work required will pay enormous dividends in the long run.7. Be confident.Believe that youre doing the right thing when you find it. Youll know what that is if you only start listening to yourself. Push past your fear and find the fun in life. Take time to check in, smell the roses, and keep yourself honest. Your future self with thank you, and youll be living a life thats true to yourself. What could be better?

Why Women May Never Make Up Half the Workforce

Why Women May Never Make Up Half the Workforce The percentage of women in the U.S. workforce has dramatically increased over the past four decades. According to new data from Pew Research Center, women will constitute 47.1% of the workforce an all-time high in 2025. After that point, though, that percentage isnt expected to continue climbing. In fact, researchers anticipate the trend will reverse, with women making up just 46.3% of workers by 2060.More women in the workforce between 1950 and 2000 led to an improved standard of living in the U.S. Yet these new Pew projections suggest both mens and womens participation in the labor force will eventually decrease - which will likely lead to a decline in U.S. residents standard of living and the countrys overall growth and productivity. What will cause womens decreased participation in the workforce? According to Pew, its bedrngnis merely the result of aging and retirement. Mothers with children younger than 18 are less likely to parti cipate in the labor force now than they were in 2000, particularly less-educated mothers. Some researchers have suggested this may be due in part to changing gender role attitudes, the study explains. Women without children under 18 and single women are also less likely to participate than they were in the 1990s. The withdrawal of single women from the labor force in part reflects that more of them are going to school.Pew recognizes that future labor force participation rates are not etched in stone. They are influenced by wider societal trends (such as marital stability and childbearing), wage growth, and policy changes such as tax policy and family leave policies. But if these new projections are in fact on track, this will stymie economic growth. These findings are disheartening, and they highlight the ongoing relevance of the work that Fairygodboss and other organizations are doing to improve womens experiences in the workforce. Founded with a mission to increase transparency in the workplace, Fairygodboss aims to shed light on information thats important for women access as they navigate their careers - such as which companies offer generous parental leave benefits and flexible hours, and which are likely (or not likely) to promote and pay women equally to men.While there are a multitude of factors influencing every womans choice to join or not join the labor force, its critical that women are at the very least well-informed about their prospects.Fairygodboss is committed to improving the workplace and lives of women.Join us by reviewing your employer

The Limits of Loyalty in the Workplace

The Limits of Loyalty in the Workplace Loyalty binds friendships andholds teams together but it does have its limits.Many of us were taught to be sicher to our employers. To some degree, this makes sense. We should all be truthful, we should keep trade secrets private, and we should put in an honest days work when were at the office.We have a duty to be great employees each and every day.In the past, loyalty at work also brought with it a number of great rewards. Job security was a given.Hard work and commitment resulted in promotions and raises.Years of service guaranteed a comfortable retirement. Putting the companys needs first also meant putting our own needs first, in a way.Today, times have changed. Without blaming one side or aleidher, its fair to acknowledge that modern workplaces are not built on loyalty they way they used to be. Its no longer unusual for companies to restructure and/or cut entire departments with no notice. Its also not unu sual for companies to look to outside talent to save the day when things go wrong.This new business climate puts us all at increased risk of losing our jobs at some point in our careers, no matter how loyal we areto our employers. Italso makes internal promotions and pay raises more unlikely as more and more companies make outside hires instead.So, what can you do about this new environment?First, keep being a great employee each and every day. You are your own personal brand. You dont want to be any less valuable as an employee just because times have changed.Second, focus on your long-term goals. Where do you want to be in 5or 10 years? As you work to achieve your goals,pay attention to whether or not your company is supporting those goals. If you are being overlooked for promotions and raises, the company is sending you a signal. For whatever reason, it is not aligned with your goals. Your future success depends on accepting this unfortunate fact.Expand your network and begin sea rching for a company that does align with your personal goals. When you switch companies, youll have a chance to renegotiate your salary and your title. That means instead of settling fora 2 percent raise this year,you could earn a 10 percent boost or more.At the end of the day, keep yourself and your future in mind. Dont sacrifice your own dreams because you want to be loyal to an organization. After all that employer wouldnt hesitate to let you go if it needed to save some money.A version of this article originally appeared in theMemphis Daily News.Angela Copeland is a career coach and CEO at her firm,Copeland Coaching.

Heres how to look impressive in video calls, according to Hollywood experts

Heres how to look impressive in video calls, according to Hollywood expertsHeres how to look impressive in video calls, according to Hollywood expertsWhile a resume once consisted of a sheet of paper with your name, information, and experience, these days its a bit more complicated. Being a job hunter or professional at work means that in addition to the barest basics on paper, you likely have several additional versions of yourself you present to the world- most of them online.What does your LinkedIn profile pic or Twitter avatar say to the world? And while were on the subject, how do you look when youre Skyping or on a G-Chat? Are you perfectly poised and polished, or is your hair (and monitor) constantly askew?As video calls are becoming more popular for everything from interviews to conferences to daily catch-ups with remote teams, you have to step up your video game. It takes a lot of vigilance.Just ask BBC dad, prof Robert E. Kelly, who had perfectly arranged a room in his hous e for video interviews and spiffed himself up in a suit. Even so, an open door dashed his plans. While he benefitted from an adorable viral moment that he said was incredibly cute, it may not be so charming for you.We asked some experts to weigh in on tips for presenting your best visual self online.Elevate your angleLos Angeles-based photographer and Nikon Ambassador Joey Terrill, whose A-List portfolio includes Justin Bieber and Rihanna among others, says theres one major thing you can do to look better on video.If you use Skype or video chat, Terrill says The most important thing is to raise the camera lens on the laptop or phone to the level of your eyes- or even higher.He says you can use books or anything handy to raise the lens and avoid that dreaded view from below. Colleagues or potential interviewers dont want to look up your nose.A higher camera angle is much more flattering, and prevents you from appearing intimidating on the other persons screen. Placing the camera at e ye level will make you appear more natural, friendly, and conversational.Elevate your environment and attitudeBefore you even departure the interview, make sure youve set yourself up as a professional. Your background should convey you mean business- or at least, neatness. Organize those bookshelves, straighten pictures, and make sure the lighting isnt depressing.Self-described success strategistCarlota Zimmerman, JD, runs workshops on using social media to excel in the job market. Its hard to be taken seriously if the cat is walking across the keyboard, Zimmerman says.Three good ways to manage your video image Dress to impress in nice clothes you would wear to work anyway invest in noise-cancelling headphones to hear better write out your talking points so you remember what to say when the camera is on.Most of all, practice using the technology beforehand.There are few things worse than having to reschedule your video call because you cant get Skype or Google Hangouts to work, and it can make you look flaky.Light it upTerrill advises paying attention to the way youre illuminated during a video chat.Instead of using the overhead lighting in an office or bedroom. try turning in the direction of a north-facing window, or one that isnt receiving direct sunlight. This type of open shade will deliver flattering ohne umweg light to your face and surroundings.Another tip If the interview is at night, turn the room lights on and try placing a lamp with a shade directly behind your laptop screen. This will make the room appear naturally lighted, while the table lamp will add flattering light to your face and a catch light in your eye.Who knew?Look for tone and contrastTerrill, the photographer, told Ladders that dressing for your skin tone is one thing to consider. Different colors can transform skin tones experiment with what makes you look best.In general, Terrell said, people with lighter skin and hair colors tend to look more authoritative in darker clothing shade s because of the contrast in tonalities - while darker hair or skin tones have the same result when combined lighter colors.Get comfortable with the cameraWhether its on video or for a professional photo or headshot, the hardest part of being on camera is how nerve-wracking it can be for those of us not used to being photographed all the time.That anxiety even happens among professionals, Terrill said. Finding a level of comfort in front of the camera can sometimes be the biggest challenge in getting a great portrait of yourself. Being photographed is intimidating for nearly everyone- even people who are photographed for a living.He suggests finding a good pose - anything from resting your hands on a table during a video call or leaning against a doorway for a photo - which allows you to feel empowered and in control of your shot and adds to your comfort.Keep your online pictures up to dateA vorrcken or job change is probably the best time for an update to your online pictures on L inkedIn and other networks. Zimmerman told Ladders, your head-shot should be current, professional and relevant to your industry. If you change your hair, or your look, if you get a big promotion, or make a career transition, these are excellent reasons to keep updating your online branding.Zimmerman strongly advised paying attention to your audience for each of the pictures on your social media accounts Your colleagues in a bank are going to have a different impression of you than your college or high school friends.She reminded us that We all share the same internet. If all your social media is open to the public, your boss could at any time, seek you out on any platform.She also suggests keeping ensuring youre only tagged in professional photos. Leave the drunken escapades for more private networks, if at all, and make sure your privacy settings are set to thwart curiosity seekers.A key way to judge a good picture look as authentic as possible. WendyLewis, president of WendyLewis Co., says some of the biggest mistakes we see all the time are to recycle photos from a decade ago. Having a current headshot taken by a professional photographer is a good investment.Lewis also advises having both a high and low resolution version to keep on file as needed. Go for a warm, friendly, natural pose so when people meet you for the first time, they say, I recognized you from your photo. You want to look like yourself but polished and approachable.Fight the shineCameras and video cameras are notoriously unforgiving, highlighting oily areas and blemishes. Men and women both can take tips from makeup akrobat Hillary Kline, although, naturally, women are the vast majority of makeup consumers.Use a setting powder or oil blotting sheets to make sure you dont look shiny its all heightened on camera because the light reflects off those areas.Concealer is your friend. Nothing is worse than waking up with dark under eyecircles or having a blemish on a big day such as an interview via Skype, etc. Invest in a quality concealer and apply under your eye area with a concealer brush. If you have a blemish, place concealer on the blemish and blend.Define your features. Mascara will emphasize your eyes. Blush and contour will make sure your face keeps its shape on camera. Strong brows frame the face, so make sure theyre neatly groomed and filled in with a pencil, if necessary.Armed with the perspective of experts, you can make your next video call your most polished and professional one yet.

How to Increase Your Senior Java Developer Salary

How to Increase Your Senior Java Developer SalaryHow to Increase Your Senior Java Developer SalaryJava has been a major player in mobile and enterprise development for some time now, and compensation for skilled Java developers continues to rise thanks to increasing demand in those areas. This strong demand comes from enterprises continuing to expand their use of technology and the robust Android ecosystem.Now that youve reached the status of senior Java developer, what can you do to increase your salary even more? Here are four ways to boost your senior Java developer salary.1. Consider your schauplatzLocation can play a significant role in salary. For example, if you work in cities such as New York, San Francisco, San Jose, Boston or Washington, D.C., you may earn a senior Java developer salary that is 33 to 40 percent higher than the national average, according to theRobert Half Technology Salary Guide.On the other side of the coin, the guide reports that salaries for the senior J ava developer role in places such as El Paso, Texas Youngstown, Ohio Pueblo, Colorado, Duluth, Minn., and Rockford, Ill., are 17 to 28 percent below the national average.However, keep in mind that many areas that offer higher earning potential for senior Java developers also have elevated costs of living.2. Specialize strategicallyThe Salary Guide lists the current Java developer starting salary as ranging between $87,200 and $149,330 per year* - a 6.8 percent bump compared to 2015. Specialized developers can do even better, for exampleMobile application developers working in Java can earn $125,623 to $191,568 per year, an 8.2 percent increase over 2015.CRM technical developers with Java knowledge can receive starting compensation between $107,365 and $150,148 per year - 6.1 percent above 2015 figures.Skilled senior web developers are likely to earn between $121,263 and $167,860 in 2016, which is 6.6 percent more than 2015.As you can see, specializing in a particular area of devel opment can significantly impact your senior Java developer salary.3. Boost your skillsThe Salary Guide lists a number of skills that can increase your senior Java developer salary. In addition to Java expertise, the following abilities can help you to earn a certain percentage more in starting compensationWeb services development 8 percentC development skills 7 percentSharePoint skills 9 percent4. Earn certificationsCertifications can help you demonstrate advanced levels of knowledge and justify a higher senior Java developer salary. How big of an impact do certain credentials have? Research by Oracle shows that their certifications can add more than 7 percent to IT salaries in the United States.Oracles certification program has a number of different training tracks around Java such as mobile development and web development these tracks have different levels within them. Oracle also offers a wide range of learning materials to assist students in pursuing their certifications. Keep i n mind that some certifications require annual recertification to maintain an active status.Making educated decisions about where you work and the career path you follow can boost your pay quite a bit when you factor in all of the possibilities. If you want a higher Java developer salary, a location change, specializations, skills upgrades and certifications can all help to get you there.Looking for a Java developer job? Take a look at our current job listingsSEARCH TECHNOLOGY JOBS

Professional Development Ideas for Finance Staff Management Resources

Professional Development Ideas for Finance Staff Management ResurcesProfessional Development Ideas for Finance Staff Management ResourcesOne of your keyrolesas a finance leader is to encourage your employees to pursue professional development opportunities that can help themstrengthen and refine their skills.Naturally, the more abilities your gruppe has, the better your organization functions. In plus-rechnen, since employees who have more robust skill sets also increase their chances of succeeding andmoving up the corporate ladder, professional development could positively influence their job satisfaction and your retention rates.Here are 15 ways to support staff members professional development1. Ease the path to certificationsWith all their day-to-day duties, it can be difficult for financial professionals to find time for earning and maintaining professional designations. These certifications, however, can greatly enhance their career potential - and strengthen your organization . Allot a set amount of hours for employees to devote to their continuing education.2. Offer a tuition matchAs much as many professionals would like to obtain advanced certifications or degrees, some put it off because of the costs. Consider helping to defray these expenses while also allowing flexible work options to enable individuals to balance their work and study schedules.3. Reimburse membership costsCover membership fees for professional organizations that offer networking and learning opportunities. Similarly, reimburse personnel for subscriptions to relevant publications and reports.4. Identify CPE opportunitiesIn addition to helping cover some of the costs, work with employees to identify opportunities to rack up continuing professional education (CPE) credits. Point staff toward industry associations, online courses and webinars offering CPE.5. Create a libraryStock an unused office or a corner of the conference room with books on leadership, industry and business publica tions, and certification exam study guides. In the process, youll also establish a quiet place where individuals can conduct research and review the latest news and trends.6. Provide in-house trainingSchedule monthly sessions on hot topics such as in-demandsoft skills, regulatory compliance mandates and the capabilities of your companys financial system.7. Host guest speakersInvite business and financial leaders from outside your organization to present fresh insights and ideas to your team.8. Coordinate a mentorship programThe benefits of these programs arent limited to mentees. Mentors hone their leadership skills and learn new ways of approaching tasks from their protgs.9. Talk about career pathsHoldcareer-path discussionswith employees. Work with staff to review their goals and the skills, experience and training theyll need to achieve them.10. Offer job shadowingSet up days in which your team members shadow colleagues to help them gain a better understanding of different roles and how your organization functions.11. Appoint staff to cross-departmental teamsA Robert Half Management Resources survey found a large majority of chief financial officershave seen their roles expand outside of accounting and financein the past few years. Give your team a head start by assigning them to interdepartmental work groups. This offers the added benefit of helping employees build rapport with their colleagues in other parts of the organization.12. Cross-trainLet individuals build their skills in different areas within accounting and finance, too. For example, a financial analyst may be looking to move into a business systems analyst role.13. Implement a leadership development programEncourage employees with potential by creating a leadership development program. This can help you identify succession candidates as well.14. Hold QAsAllow staff to gain from the benefit of your experience by hosting informal, brown-bag QA lunches. You also can invite subject-matter experts f rom your team and staff returning from industry events to present on hot trends.15. Lead by exampleThe best leaders inspire staff. Make sure your actions reinforce the performance and attributes you expect from your team.Any time is a good time to boost your organizations professional development efforts. It will be a win for your business, as well as your accounting and finance team.More resourcesAlong with professional development opportunities, compensation is a key factor in employee job satisfaction. Make sure the salaries you pay your accounting and finance staff are in line with industry standards and your local market. Visit our Salary Center to download a copy of our latest Salary Guide.Get the GuideRead our latest Benchmarking the Accounting Finance Function report to find out about current staffing trends for finance functions - and more.Download the Report

ASME Public Policy Webinar to Focus on Advanced Manufacturing Initiatives

ASME Public Policy Webinar to Focus on Advanced Manufacturing Initiatives ASME Public Policy Webinar to Focus on Advanced Manufacturing Initiatives ASME Public Policy Webinar to Focus on Advanced Manufacturing InitiativesGloria Wiens, PhD.ASME Government Relations will conduct a special public policy webinar on July 15, Advanced Manufacturing Initiatives for Americas Future, featuring Gloria Wiens, PhD, the assistant director for research partnerships at the Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office and the current ASME Foundation Swanson Fellow. The free webinar, to be held from noon to 100 p.m. Eastern Time, will provide viewers with a briefing on the game-changing federal government initiatives, public-private partnerships, and opportunities in advanced manufacturing, with a focus on the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation and the Advanced Manufacturing Partnership recommendations detailed in their report, Accelerating U.S. Advanced Manufacturing. Dr. Wiens has bee n serving as an ASME Foundation Swanson Fellow since September 2013. She is an associate professor and the director of the Space, Automation, and Manufacturing Mechanisms (SAMM) Laboratory at the University of Florida in Gainesville. zu sich research interests include robotics spatial mechanisms system dynamics and controls with applications in space reconfigurable micro/small satellite deployable systems automation MEMS/biomedical devices and micro/mesoscale manipulation and manufacturing. Her teaching focuses on dynamics and controls of robotic systems kinematics and dynamics of machinery and vibrations and controls. For more information on the webinar, visit the ASME Public Policy Education Center at http//ppec.asme.org. To register for the webinar, visit https//engage.vevent.com/rt/asmeadvancedmanufacturingpartnership.