With today’s uncertain economic climate, moms across the country are seeking ways to offset the economic downturn with flexible work options. From starting their own home businesses to freelancing and telecommuting, thousands of moms — many of whom are highly educated and experienced — are jumping back into the workforce and choosing to work at home.
These moms now have a new ally and free resources to help them start and market their home businesses. Home Based Working Moms (HBWM) is a professional association and online community of parents who work at home and those who would like to. HBWM.com’s new interactive website provides a variety of tools and resources to help moms network, learn and grow in their role as a home-based working mom, including free business profiles, member directory and networking opportunities.
Press
“We are seeing a stronger interest from moms wanting to work from home. Many of them are trying to offset lower salaries and/or higher household expenses. Others are seeking to help their family through a layoff or potential layoff. And starting a home business makes sense, as many of these moms can take their past experience or career and begin freelancing from home or start a home business. Our website aims to give them ideas, support, tools and connections to help their businesses flourish,” Lesley Spencer Pyle, HBWM Founder and President says.
The website features interactive profiles allowing members to post their profiles and business information for free. In addition, they can learn from other moms what has worked and what has not in regards to types of businesses, marketing approaches and even parenting challenges.
“I’ve just started my online business and thanks to HBWM, I have received so much help and support from other moms — it’s just overwhelming,” Marcolina Gonzalez, owner of Payless Home Decor & Gifts says.
Pyle is the author of The Work-at-Home Workbook: Your Step-by-Step Guide on Selecting and Starting the Perfect Home Business for You, a columnist with Entrepreneur.com and is also featured on DrPhil.com. She lives in Houston with her husband and four children.
Related posts
Tags: business profiles, economic climate, economic downturn, flexible work options, hbwm, home businesses, home decor gifts, household expenses, interactive website, lesley spencer, member directory, networking opportunities, new interactive, parenting challenges, perfect home, professional association, pyle, starting a home business, types of businesses, working mom
The big question behind telecommuting at the current moment in time has to do with the amount of money that you can save. Well, in order to answer this question, it is important to figure out exactly how much money you spend each week on fuel purchases directly related to your work commute.
In order to do that, you need to keep track of how much you drive to and from work as well as how much you drive during your working day if driving happens to be a part of it. Once you have that information, you should have a good idea of the amount of money you can save through telecommuting.
However, for most people, gas prices are not the only prices associated with that daily commute to work. At least part of the maintenance costs of the car are a direct result of commuting to work and should be included as well. In addition to that, many people stop at a restaurant on the way to work to get a coffee and maybe even something like a bagel or a donut. When all of these costs are added together, most people find quite to their surprise that they can save more than $200 a week through telecommuting.
Related posts
For some reason, the mental block that a lot of people seem to have with telecommuting is a strong one and for that reason many people have been looking for alternatives to telecommuting. As some that telecommutes to work all the time, I don’t particularly understand the objections to it, but I dutifully tried to examine the problem in order to see if any alternatives were available.
Off the top of my head, the only other viable alternative I could think of was sleeping over at the office. If people brought a week’s worth of clothing with them and had access to a shower close to their office, they could conceivably sleep over at the office from Monday night to Thursday night, coming home on Friday in order to spend the weekend with their family. This would cut down their weekly fuel consumption by 80% (they would still need to commute one-way on Monday morning and Friday evening) and ostensibly save them a lot of money in the process.
Personally, I think that as a solution this is nowhere near as good as telecommuting. Telecommuting allows you to spend all of your evenings with your family and it allows you to be around for family emergencies that might happen. It brings families together rather than forcing them apart and for these reasons and more is simply a much better solution to a person’s current gasoline woes.
Related posts
So what is next for most of us looking up to hyped
jobs as far as demand is concerned? We can see from each year, there is one
job specialization that will stand out above the rest and most of them cater to the same
law of demand and supply to which it will experience an overflow of talent. Just consider these job trends we have experienced throughout the years:
- 1990- The Information Technology and Real Estate Boom
- 2000- Nursing and Medical Technologists Boom
- Present - Call Centers
Today, freelance writers and individuals are slowly rising to the occasion. The difference is that people can do their work from home. Normally, this type of job is suitable for the mothers or parents who stay at home. But today, we can notice that even the full-time workers have their share of using this as their sideline for added income.
This actually kicked off some years back and now even the companies that contract such people have become wiser since quality content is still the important thing when providing this kind of service.
Here is a good article to read on further: Probloggers and Blogging Jobs: The Next Boom for Job Hunters at the Associated Content.
To find out which jobs are currently open in this industry, you can check out this site: Blogger Jobs World
[tags]real_estate_boom, law_of_demand_and_supply, job_specialization, quality_content, freelance_writers, information_technology, jobs[/tags]
Related posts
Writing a cover letter is just as important as your
resume is for a job you want. A
cover letter is a letter you send along with your resume to a potential
employer for a job. A cover letter tells the hiring manager two things. The first is for whom the cover letter and resume is intended and where to send it. It you know someone in the company that can help recommend you for the job then send a copy of the cover letter and resume to that person and mention his or her name. The second is your knowledge of the company and your desire to work for the company. You can find the material you need can be found through pamphlets, career service offices, the company’s website,
newspapers, or
magazines. Each cover letter must be geared toward a specific job position.
These easy steps of the cover letter should include in the following material for the perfect job your seeking.
- Contact information includes your name and address, phone number and email at the top of the letter.
- Skip four lines and put the date. Spell out the month, as it looks more professional.
- Skip four more lines and put the name of the address you are sending the letter to. Contact’s name, title, company, street, town, state, skip one space, and the zip code.
- Greeting. Skip 2 lines and your salutation followed by a colon for example, Dear Mr. Smith:
- Opening paragraph. Skip another two lines and type your letter. The first paragraph should include something like; “I recently saw an opening for a cashier at K-Mart”. The next few sentences should indicate that you are interested in working for them and why. I am interested in working for you as a cashier at K-Mart. I would be a valuable asset to your company. As you see from my resume, I have a great deal experience as a cashier, opening and closing my drawer, training employees, stocking shelves, etc.
- Main body of your letter should include a series paragraphs as to why the company should hire you. Think of this section of the cover letter, as a sales pitch, that includes what you feel is the most relevant to the job or profession.
- Last paragraph should wrap up your cover letter by saying, “Please feel free contact me if you have further questions. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your time and consideration.”
- Close the letter. Skip another two lines and end your letter. The most common closing is, sincerely,.
- Sign your name. Skip another 4 lines and print your name. Enclosure(s). Proof read your letter. Put it in an envelope along with your resume and send it.
These steps should help you along with writing a good cover letter. Update your resume and good luck.
[tags]resume, cover_letter, newspapers, magazines[/tags]
Related posts
Posted by Damien on Feb 12, 2008 in
Blog Jobs,
Blogging,
Business,
Jobs and Careers 
So, you have an interview. Now, the question is what do I wear to the interview? Appearance is very important part of your interview and the first impression is the most important one as it counts about half of the job interview success.
There are very important steps to follow before, during, and after your interview. The first step is to know a little about the company with which you have an interview. It shows initiative and enthusiasm to want to learn about the company before hand. The second step is on the day of the interview. You must be dressed appropriately, clean, neat and well groomed. The last step is the interview. Arrive early and check yourself in the restroom and make sure your clothes are not wrinkled, or hair is messed up. It is time to enter the office. State your name clearly, shake his or her hand firmly, make eye contact and thank the interviewer for the opportunity to meet with him or her.
Tips on Dressing for the Interview
Men:
- Wear a neutral, dark blue, gray or brown color suit and sport jacket with trousers to match.
- Tie is important and should compliment your suit.
- Black or brown leather shoes if possible, clean and polished.
- Nails trimmed, neat and clean.
- Beard should be clean, neat, combed and trimmed.
- Hair clean and brushed.
- Use cologne sparingly.
Women:
- Wear a classic navy, black, dark green, dark red, burgundy or gray colored suite, or a simple dress with a jacket. Do not wear prints or stripes. Be conservative. Wear something that does not wrinkle easy.
- Stockings are a must and should be natural or beige color. Bring an extra pair with you increase you get a snag, rip or tear in them.
- Shoes should be leather and a color that matches the outfit you are wearing. No open toes, high heels or sneakers.
- Trim fingernails and wear clear nail polish. Simple jewelry, a wedding band and ring are acceptable.
- Use moderate hairspray, perfume and makeup.
- Hair should be styled and kept away from the face.
- Make sure teeth are brushed and you do not have bad breath, dandruff or body order. That goes for you men too.
- Take a briefcase. Women no purse or bags, please.
If you follow the steps above, use common sense and you should be fine and make a good impression on your future boss!
[tags]job_interview, interviewer, first_impression, boss, clothes, restroom, eye_contact, common_sense[/tags]
Related posts
Office etiquette has been around a long time but nowadays they are getting more important in the work place. Business etiquette is about building relationships with people. In the first seven seconds of meeting someone is very important. That person will be able to access you in just those first few seconds, whether or not you are hired for the job. Good office etiquette is just more a smile on your face and treating your co-workers with respect. Etiquette is important in every day life but at the office there are certain other points to consider with good office etiquette.
- Be clean, neat, and practice good hygiene. Be sensitive to scents and smells around you. Bath or shower regularly and wear clean clothes.
- Listen to others as to what they have to say.
- Be considerate of others working around you. Keep phone calls brief and quiet, and do not talk a lot with the co-worker next to you, especially, if they are trying to work.
- Borrow office supplies with permission. Do not take something without asking first. If you lose the last item, try and replace it.
- Keep decorations to a minimal if possible. Return borrowed supplies.
- Monitor your voice level and try not to be loud. If you have to use the speakerphone, keep it at a low volume.
- Personal phone calls are usually not allowed unless of an emergency.
- Keep your workspace area clean and neat at all times. Do not clutter your desk with family pictures, or mementos that might hinder your work area.
- Leave the photocopier in good working condition after use. If the machine jams, take the time and fix it yourself or ask someone to help you fix it. We all expect and want office machines and items to be in good working order for when the next person uses the machine.
The Golden Rules of Office Etiquette are to be able to make people feel comfortable, valued, and appreciated.
- Ability to get along with others.
- Show good manners.
- Manage relationships with others.
- Excellent customer service
Office etiquette has changed over the years Practicing good office manners will be beneficial to you, your co-workers and other employees, people coming in and out of the office.
[tags]office_etiquette, building_relationships, place_business, business_etiquette, co_workers, job[/tags]
Related posts
Your resume is a summary of your present and past employment record and other useful information such as education, skills and personal data. A resume is sole purpose of getting a job interview. You should take pride in your resume, as it is a sales pitch about you, and to catch the interviewer’s attention to ask you for an interview. The hiring manager received many resumes and glances at them for a few seconds. If the resume does not catch his or her eye, or convey the right message, it will get tossed in the garbage can, and you will not get an interview. Hiring a professional writer will give you a better chance at achieving an interview, if you want to spend some money.
Your resume should be written in the third person, clear, eye-catching, organized, and easy to understand. Look professional and typed on 8 x 11 paper. It should be one page, and contain no spelling errors, punctuation, grammar or typographical errors.
- Center your name, address, business, home telephone numbers, and email address.
- Add Job Objective in bold, and capitalized. It should be short and to the point.
- Employment history. Begin with your most recent and work backwards.
- Accent your accomplishes, awards, and performance records. Choose action verbs, such as prepared, managed, trained, develop for each job listed.
- List your educational background, qualifications, awards, and honors, briefly.
- Add your accomplishments and computer skills.
- Conclude with personal data you may want known, marital status, number of children, or languages spoken.
Resume tips and warnings
- Be positive on your resume and your interview.
- Be concise and to the point.
- Be specific and talk about your accomplishments and skills.
- Choose the design for the resume. Make it look professional.
- Use bullet point to highlight specific information. And list most relevant points first so they can be viewed quickly.
- Include symbols as they save space.
- Avoid gaps. This will be discussed in the interview.
- Lots of jobs listed, omit summer jobs or anything that does not pertain to the job you are applying.
- Few jobs listed, it is best to emphasize on your accomplishments rather than how long you were employed. List in order of importance than chronologically.
Your resume is the most important part of getting the job interview and knowing what to emphasize is very important. Hire a professional if you want to be sure and get an interview. Whatever you do be neat, concise, and honest and you will be well on the way to make a good resume.
Related posts
Posted by Damien on Feb 1, 2008 in
Blog Jobs 
Parents should take their child to the dentist around their first birthday. It is very important for parents to start taking care of their children’s teeth at a very early age. Your child’s first visit should not be any later than 2 years old. Try not to let the appearance of an aching tooth, tooth decay or something worse be the first visit to the dentist. Do not wait for this to happen, instead take your child when gets his or her first tooth. This way, a trust can begin between the dentist and your child. Once the trust has developed than your child will not be afraid to go and get his or her teeth cleaned, or have a cavity filled.
Your child’s first visit to the children’s dentist is a very low-key, comfortable time to get to know the doctor and for the child to become familiar with the routine visit. Your child’s dentist will know what to expect from a short demonstration followed by the dentist performing the routine examination. Most dentists reward children for being good and not crying, which will reinforce the same behavior on the next visit and future visits. The dentist will examine your baby’s teeth and gums. He or she will pay close attention to any sign of baby bottle tooth decay, which is a common problem among babies and toddlers. Your children’s dentistry may recommend some advice for preventing future cavities, such as
1. Giving your child fluoride drops, with an eyedropper, especially, if your water is not fluoridated.
2. Recommend a well-balance diet in baby foods containing plenty of calcium, fruit and vegetables.
Children, like adults, need teeth to chew food and talk clearly. It is just as important for baby teeth to be spaced properly and not rot or fall out before they are supposed to. Your child’s dentist can intervene and stop your baby’s teeth from going bad early in life. After your child’s first visit to the children’s dentistry and gained trust with the dentist, dental care should be given as painless and a positive experience for all involved.
Appointments are scheduled usually at your convenience and when the time is available. Young children should be seen in the early morning because they are more awake and can the dentist can easily work with them better if they are scheduled later in the day. Most schools will excuse the child because of a dental appointment. Missing school will be kept at a minimum when regular teeth care is scheduled. The dentist will mostly allow the parent to stay with their child or baby. However, if you have other children with you, it is better for them to stay with another adult so the dentist can work quietly with your child.
Your child’s first dentist visit should be a calm, gentle time to get to know your dentist and what the appointment is about before any work is done on your baby’s teeth.
[tags]baby, cosmetic, dentist, teeth, tooth, visit[/tags]
Related posts
Posted by Damien on Jan 31, 2008 in
Blog Jobs 
Homeless people are a major problem in the United States, today. Poverty and the lack of housing are the two major reasons for a people to become homeless. There are many other reasons why people live on the streets. Women with children often choose this way of living, or sleep in their cars rather than live with an abusive spouse. Some families and or single people are evicted due to losing their job or they are not employed. Many do not have the skills necessary to hold down a job and, therefore, left homeless. Children cannot be in a classroom and finish a school term whose parents sleep in their cars or living on the streets. Emotionally fragile people mentally and physically often become victims of abuse and leave their homes to live on the streets. No matter what reason a person or family becomes homeless, holidays can be tough for them. You can make it special for the homeless in your area by being there to give a homeless valentine.
Valentine’s Day is traditionally a day for loved one’s to celebrate together. Why do we celebrate Valentine’s Day and who is this mysterious saint? February 14, across the world, celebrates Valentine’s Day traditionally with chocolate candy, flowers, and gifts that are exchanged between friends, couples, family, and the like, all in the name of St. Valentine. February is a month of romance as we have known it to be but both Christian and ancient Roman traditionally celebrates the holiday as well. The legend suggests that Valentine actually sent the first valentine greeting himself by signing a romantic letter to his young love before his death. It is now a romantic expression used today signed on greeting cards. Because of his romantic letter to his girlfriend, the holiday is now considered a romantic day and gifts and cards are exchanged. St. Valentine is a special kind of heroic, sympathetic and very importantly, romantic figure through out the world today.
However, not everyone has someone to share on Valentine’s Day and a nice gesture would be to buy or give something for the homeless in your area. It must be lonely for them on the special romantic holiday.
1. Cook a meal and bring it down for the homeless people.
2. Get a group of people and cook a potluck for them.
3. Take the day, or after school, and talk to the homeless, make them feel that they are special on this day and every other day as well.
4. You can always do other things, like donate some old clothes, or professional clothes you do not want anymore, or you can take warm blankets to a homeless person you see downtown.
5. Donate, toys and books, which would make a great gift for a homeless child on this day.
You can help the homeless not just on Valentine’s Day but also throughout the year. You can volunteer and help out at your local shelter by distributing clothes, serve meals, put on a puppet show for the homeless children, or answer the phones. On Valentine’s Day and all year long, you know you have helped to give the homeless a Valentine.
[tags]day, holiday, homeless, valentine, valentines_day[/tags]
Related posts
