Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Blogging About Blogs!

Each week I search the web for career resources that my clients might find useful, to augment or enhance their coaching exercises. The web offers an array of information, data, advice and opinions, often in the form of blogs, on topics such as resume writing, job search, networking, interviewing, careers, the workplace and organizational behavior. A key challenge is determining if the blogger’s examples and points of view are relevant to your current situation. Does the information fit your need and can you trust the source?

Check out the Career Blogs from Alltop - Top Career News

This link presents a phenomenal listing of blogs related to the work environment and career development. In fact, it may even border on information overload! But this is a perfect illustration of the scope of data, facts, opinions and perspectives available on the web – all just a mouse click away. But this long list of career blogs is still only a small fraction of the number lurking out there in cyberspace. Scan these blogs to identify those that you might find appealing and helpful for career planning. And if all the information becomes a bit overwhelming, you can always call a Career Coach!

When you come across career blogs/sites that you would like to recommend – feel free to pass along the links.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Is it Time to Get Certified?

If you have ever considered pursuing a professional credential, maybe NOW is the right time! I'm not referring to professions that currently require a license or certification to obtain employment, such as medicine, nursing, public accounting (to function as a CPA), architecture, etc. Professional certification is becoming increasingly popular and even required in many industries. It is common to see job postings that list a certification/credential as a preferred qualification of the best fit candidate; such as PHR-Professional in Human Resources, PMP-Project Management Professional, CMPE-Certified Medical Practice Executive, CPC-Certified Professional Coder for example.

Learning and training opportunities have never been more available and flexible (online courses, distance/home study courses, seminars, conferences, webinars, etc.). Professional certification is a great way to gain new skills and knowledge, as well as to validate experience and expertise.

Here are few targeted resources to assist you in researching professional certification programs across a wide array of industries:


  1. Career OneStop - Certification Finder www.acinet.org/certifications_new/cert_search_occupation.asp

  2. Weddle's Association Directory - Identify professional associations in your field, then research the certification programs that may be sponsored/endorsed by the association. www.weddles.com/associations/index.cfm