Keyboards

From the Employment and Learning Computer Lab:

Though rarely discussed, it is actually somewhat important to remember that all keyboards are different. Whatever the brand name of the computer, or whether it’s a desktop or a laptop keyboard, the spacing and shape of the keys are proprietary to the company, so there will be changes in each one. For example, on desktop computers, the keys are more raised, so it takes an extra touch to press them than on the laptops. Also, laptop keys tend to be closer together and on some, may not have the number keypad on the right side, so you have to rely on the number keys on the top row.

But it is not just the spacing between the keys that is different, it is also the placement of them. On most desktop computers, for example, the main text and number keys are separate by a gap from the function keys at the right (Insert, Home, Delete, etc.), and then the numeric keypad.  However, on the laptop, the configuration can be different, with the keys all crammed together.

The reason to mention this is that keyboards take some getting used to, even if you are comfortable on your own. When taking a typing test at a job interview, it is a good idea to use the opportunity to practise before you take the test, so you can feel more comfortable, and make fewer errors.

Speaking of typing test errors, note that it is better to leave the mistake and continue going than to correct it. In the time it takes to make the change to a mistake that will be one keystroke deducted from the final tally, you could have possibly typed more than the one letter.

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Informational Interviews

Informational Interviews are an excellent way for the job seeker to learn about a job or profession and an important step in the process of getting hired.

Informational interviews differ from job interviews, because you are in charge.  You are the one asking the questions; as such you need to be prepared.  You need a goal and you need a plan.  Your ultimate goal might be to find a job, but you might also have smaller or short term goal of finding out about the job or the employer to see if you are interested in doing the job.  Informational interviews can also help you develop a network of professional contacts and they can help you develop confidence when you have actual job interviews. 

You should conduct each informational interview as the professional appointment it is.  You should dress accordingly, you should be polite, respectful and on time.  And most importantly, you should be prepared.  In order to assist you in preparing here are ten very general questions you may wish to ask:

1.      How do people get into this field?

2.      What do you like or not like about your job?
3.      How did you get into the field?
4.      What degree or certificate do employers look for?
5.      What kind of work/internship/volunteer experience would employers look for in a job applicant?
6.      What are the most important personal characteristics and values a person needs to be successful in the field?
7.      What are some related occupations?
8.      What are the important "key words" or "buzz words" to include in a resume or cover letter when job hunting in the field?
9.      Do you have any advice for someone entering the field?
10.  Do you know anyone else I could interview regarding the field?

After the informational interview go home and do the following things:

1.      Take notes and/ or review your notes and write up a summary of your findings, including who you might also interview.
2.      Thank the interviewer for his time and insight in writing (hand written or email).

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Manpower: Healthy Job Climate for Saskatoon

Manpower: Healthy Job Climate for Saskatoon

Written by Paul Burke

Tuesday, 12 March 2013 06:35

It's good news for job-seekers. Manpower is calling for what it calls a 'healthy hiring climate' for the second quarter of the year. Survey data indicates 30 per cent of employers plan to hire someone in the April to June time period, while 70 per cent plan to maintain their current levels. No respondents indicated plans to cut staff. Across western Canada, Manpower says the strongest employment gains will be in the transportation, public utility, and construction sectors. (pb mar 12/13)

Saskatchewan Weekly Earnings in Third Place Nationally at $932

 

Recent information tells us that Saskatchewan weekly earnings have increased  4.6% year over year to $932.22 in October 2012, third highest among the provinces in both percentage increase and level of earnings. Earnings have been influenced by gains in four sectors: mining and oil and gas extraction, construction, professional, scientific and technical services and educational services.
Accomodation and food services, construction, retail trade and public administration all saw year over year growth above the national average. For example, average weekly earnings in accommodation and food services totalled $372 in October 2012, up 5.8 per cent from the same month last year.
“More money in worker’s pockets means more money to spend in the market place”, Economy Minister Bill Boyd said.
But Economist Erin Weir noted that Saskatchewan lagged the Canadian average in earnings growth on a month to month basis. “Between  September and October average weekly earnings rose by $4.90 in Saskatchewan compared to $7.80 nationally” , Weir said.
On a year over year basis, earnings were up 2.8%. That reflected a number of factors, including wage growth and changes in the composition of employment by industry as well as the average number of hours worked.
                 From the Leader Post with CP files

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