Applying for a job? Avoid these common mistakes.

There are a few basic factors you need to observe in order to increase your chances of snagging that job. You may have all the right credentials, graduated from some ivy league school hoarding all the top honors. However, it may be the seemingly minor details that can speel the difference between failure and success in your job application:

1. Submitting a resume that is not updated.
Always make sure that your CV is up-to-date. Employers are interested in your most recent work experiences. Do not make the mistake of submitting an old resume that doesn't even reflect your latest contact information and even address. If you need to attach a photo, take the extra effort in pasting a recent photo of yourself, preferably in formal attire.

2. Tardiness is a big turn-off.
Being late for an interview is a sign of disrespect to the interviewer. Remember, recruiters are very busy people and their time is valuable. Besides, if you are indeed very serious in your job search, prove it by coming to the interview on time.

Your career success begins here.

3. Look professional - avoid casual attire.
Many companies have no restrictions in dress code, but as an interviewee, it is best for you to dress up for the appointment. More often than not, first impressions have a lot of impact in a job interview. The moment you step foot inside a potential employer's office, you may already be under great scrutiny. Straighten your tie, tidy up your hair and look professional.

4. Don't be a blabber mouth - but don't be catatonic either.
Either of these two no-no's does not impress the interviewer. Sometimes, interviewees end up being over-eager in expressing their qualifications that the interviewer ends up being overwhelmed with information overload and cannot process the incoming barrage effectively. On the other hand, responding with one-worded answers is just as bad. A professional interviewer asks questions that allow the interviewee to expound on his/her answers. You must learn to strike a balance. Focus on the essential details of your expertise. It is best for you to rehearse beforehand on how you can explain your strong points completely but concisely.

Top 10 Fastest-Growing Careers

If you are at a stage wherein you are on the verge of choosing a degree, have you thought of what sort of career prospects your choice will provide to you 8 years from now?

The following list compiled by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights the fastest-growing jobs expected to be the among the most-coveted careers by 2016. This may help in your decision-making:

1. Physician Assistants - a PA is licensed to perform some level of medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician. The program usually requires around 2 years course work. It is projected that PAs will become an increasingly appealing, cost-effective option for health care institutions especially in outlying and inner-city areas.

2. Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts - As companies continue to invest in their I.T. infrastructure, the expertise of Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts will rise along with this trend. A college degree will be required in preparation for most of these jobs. Professionals with graduate degress under their belts may be counted upon to take on more complicated I.T. projects involving networking systems.

Find out more of the hottest careers in your area.

3. Dental Hygienists - This profession requires a dental degree and a subsequent license. These individuals will be focused on areas revolving around oral health care. Education and training for this career will involve the use of a wide array of dental instruments, oral hygiene, and application of various dental treatments to maintain or restore good oral health.

4.Computer Software Engineers - Computer Engineering and Computer Science graduates can expect great career prospects in the computer software technology field. These I.T. experts take the lead in taking vast strides in the evolution of computer technology, which includes analyzing what the end user needs and then creating stable & powerful software applications to accomplish these goals.

Computer Systems Software Engineers are primarily tasked to integrate entire computer systems.This may also involve devising e-commerce tools such as billing & ordering systems, accounting, and inventory management.

5. Fitness and Aerobics Instructors - According to the BLS, this is another fast-growing field in health-conscious America. Most fitness jobs requires some form of certification. Most fitness instructors work part-time, with the option to work at several fitness centers and even in people's homes. Not only will you be seeing instructors in typical aerobics/exercise facilities, but in workplaces as well leading employees in company-sponsored exercise programs.

6. Physical Therapist Assistants - These assistants usually must undergo licensing before practicing this profession. PT Assistants, under the supervision of Physical Therapists, usually help patients with physical disabilities get back on their feet.

7. Medical and Health Information Assistants - Course programs range from 1-2 years. Medical Assistants are esssential in keeping medical institutions organized. Usually reporting to hospital administrators, these people are relied upon heavily to update and safekeep patients' records and perform minor, basic procedures like change dressings, prepare x-rays and medications as directed by the physican, among others.

8. Database administrators - These jobs usually require people with associate degrees to doctorate degrees. Database Administrators take charge of organizing and safekeeping valuable information stored in computerized data management systems. Because company information is as valuable as gold, database administrators must be able to set up backup systems and security.

9. Veterinary Technicians - To qualify for this career, individuals usually must pass a certification after taking up a 2-4 veterinary technology course. Pet owners are increasingly demanding for modern medical care for their beloved pets. Veterinary technicians work closely with licensed veterinarians, assisting in various clinical procedures and laboratory tests.

10. Forensic Science Technicians - Law enforcement would not be as effective as it is now were it not for the behind-the-scenes work performed by Forensic Science Technicians. Just like in the CSI TV series, these experts scientifically analyze physical evidence in aid of investigating a crime. They may also be relied upon to serve as expert witnesses during court hearings. forensic Science exposes people to ballistics, handwriting, chemistry, fingerprinting and various other laboratory techniques.

Dress for Success: Dressing Up for the Job Interview

One of the crucial stages of any job search is the interview. This is where employers get to meet and know more about the applicants who aspire to work for them. Indeed you've got what it takes to be part of their company, and you have to show them that. Thus, the first step in letting them know that you're the ONE, is by dressing right for the interview.

Here are some quick tips you should remember:

1. Dress with respect.

It is alright to follow the current fashion trends, but make sure that you wear clothes that solicit respect and not unwanted attention. This makes you look responsible, focused, and good-mannered-traits all employers look for in each and every applicant.

Make your dream career find you.

2. Dress appropriately.

Avoid wearing casual outfits such as shirts, denim jeans and sneakers especially when the job you're applying for involves corporate work. You may see employees wearing these clothes, but you are still an applicant-you will only get that privilege once you get hired. This is a career search not a treasure-hunt. Dressing appropriately also makes you look very much interested with the job.

3. Dress with confidence.

You may not be accustomed in wearing slacks, long-sleeved polo shirts or blouses, but this is one sacrifice you must make in any job application. Why not try these clothes at home first to see which makes you look smart. Once you find the right outfit, you would not only look good but also feel good. This would also make the interviewer see that you are talented, and brave enough for the job.

Keep in mind that first impressions are the ones that last, so better set the mark at your employer's first glance.