Five Fast-Growing Careers

Source: Yahoo

These careers are projected for high growth thanks to the retiring baby boomers.

By Lia Sestric

Are you interested in pursuing a new career that has a lot of growth potential?
If so, here's something you should be aware of: There are a number of new jobs being created because of the retiring baby boomers. And these new jobs aren't just in one or two industries.
In fact, baby boomers are causing job growth in a variety of sectors, including education, finance, and health care - just to name a few.
Curious to learn which careers are the on-the-rise thanks to the retiring baby boomers? Keep reading to find out…

Career #1 - Personal Financial Advisor

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Job growth rate
from 2012 to 2022:

27 percent

Number of
new jobs:

60,300

If you enjoy managing money, consider putting your financial aptitude to the service of others in a career as a personal financial advisor. If you choose this career path, you could find yourself working with a lot of baby boomers.
The Boomer Effect: The U.S. Department of Labor says the aging population is the main reason for growth in this field.
Jeff Sachse, regional economist for the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, agrees. He notes that individuals entering retirement will need assistance with their finances, especially if they don't have a pension, but have other financial investments like a 401K. Retirees will need someone - like a personal financial advisor - to help them manage these funds.
Career Details: As a financial advisor, you may assess clients' financial needs and goals and recommend investments that match their objectives, says the Department of Labor.
How to Prep: The Department says these professionals typically need a bachelor's degree. Employers usually don't require a specific field of study, but a degree in business, accounting, finance, economics, math, or law could be a good way to prepare for this position.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Finance Program.

Career #2 - Medical and Health Services Managers

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Job growth rate
from 2012 to 2022:

23 percent

Number of
new jobs:

73,300

If you're interested in pursuing a career in the medical field, but would prefer to stick to something that's less patient-facing, consider a career as a medical and health services manager. It's a career that's on the administrative side - and it's filled with opportunity, too.
The Boomer Effect: "As the large baby-boom population ages and people remain active later in life, the health care industry as a whole will see an increase in the demand for medical services," says the U.S. Department of Labor. "This demand will in turn result in an increase in the number of physicians, patients, and procedures, as well as in the number of facilities."
And as the number of medical facilities rise, so will the need for people to manage them. Specifically, the Department of Labor says medical and health services managers will be needed to organize medical information and oversee staff in the health facilities.
Career Details: Medical and health services managers are involved with various day-to-day functions within a medical facility, including supervising assistant administrators, creating work schedules, and supervising patient costs and billing, notes the Department. Managers are also responsible for staying updated on new health laws and regulations.
How to Prep: You'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree to pursue a career as a medical and health services manager, according to the Department, which recommends the bachelor's be in the field of health administration. However, master's degrees in health services, long-term care administration, public health, public administration, or business administration also are common degrees to help qualify for this career.
Next step: Click to Find the Right Health Administration Program.

Career #3 - Construction Manager

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Job growth rate
from 2012 to 2022:

16 percent

Number of
new jobs:

78,200

Would you like to supervise a project and the crew at a construction site? If so, consider pursuing a career as a construction manager. It's a field where baby boomers are hanging up their hard hats, so expect the number of job openings to be on the rise.
The Boomer Effect: While this occupation is growing for a number of reasons, including business and population growth (which will cause a demand for new homes and office buildings), retiring baby boomers are also a huge factor.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a substantial number of construction managers are projected to retire between 2012 and 2022. The reason? Sachse says baby boomers in this field are already financially stable. As a result, many may not feel the need to stick around as the construction industry bounces back from the recession.
Career Details: Also known as a general contractor, a construction manager might plan, budget, and oversee a variety of construction projects from start to finish. They create work timetables, report work progress to clients, and collaborate with engineers and other construction specialists, says the Department of Labor.
How to prep: According to the Department, it is increasingly important for construction managers to have a bachelor's degree in construction science, construction management, engineering, or architecture. For those supervising smaller projects, work experience combined with an associate's degree is typical.
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Career #4 - Elementary School Teacher

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Job growth rate
from 2012 to 2022:

12 percent

Number of
New Jobs:

167,900

If you're interested in educating today's youth, a career as an elementary school teacher could be a great fit for you. Plus, it's an occupation where a large number of boomers will be retiring from, so the job opportunities in this field are on the upward trend.
The Boomer Effect: A significant number of teachers are projected to reach retirement age between 2012 and 2022, notes the U.S. Department of Labor.
And according to Sachse, some boomers may welcome retirement rather than adapting to new, technologically-advanced teaching styles, such as using iPads in the classroom. Teachers might also be experiencing changes in their core curriculum, which could alter the lesson plans that they're accustomed to. Due to these changes, boomers may be more inclined to retire.
Career Details: As an elementary school teacher, your daily activities may include planning and teaching lessons, grading assignments, and preparing students for standardized tests, says the Department of Labor.
How to Prep: All states require public elementary school teachers to have at least a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a teaching license, says the Department. Teachers in private schools don't have to meet state requirements, but private schools typically seek teachers who have a bachelor's degree in elementary education.
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Career #5 - Insurance Sales Agent

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Job growth rate
from 2012 to 2022:

10 percent

Number of
new jobs:

45,900

Do you want to pursue a growing career that will allow you to utilize your knack for sales? Then look no further. Thanks to baby boomers, the job outlook looks bright for insurance sales agents.
The Boomer Effect: The U.S. Department of Labor says the aging population, who will need health and long-term care insurance over the next decade, will spur demand for insurance agents.
More jobs will be created within the insurance sector as more people need age-related insurance, like long-term health and Medicare Part D, as well as demand caused by the Affordable Care Act and other initiatives, says Sachse.
"Boomers will need those types of coverage because of the lengthening of our average life duration and the decrease of the number of companies that offer long-term insurance as part of their standard pension or retirement benefits," explains Sachse.
Career Details: Insurance sales agents are responsible for selling a variety of insurance options and contacting prospective customers to drum up new business, says the Department of Labor. It is also their responsibility to help clients choose an appropriate plan.
How to Prep: Although a high school diploma is the typical requirement for this profession, the Department says that a bachelor's degree could improve job prospects. The Department says that agents often take classes in finance, business, or economics. Insurance sales agents must also be licensed by the state where they sell products.

Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs

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These jobs prove that not all highly paid work will have you pulling your hair out from stress.

By Terri Williams

Who doesn't want a high-paying job? However, if the job's stress level is just as high as its salary, it may not be worth it for many people.

And according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, workplace stress can cause anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and aggressive behavior. It can also result in cardiovascular disease and other medical conditions.

On the other hand, low-stress jobs offer a high level of autonomy and empowerment, which leads to fulfillment and satisfaction, according to Liza Sichon, an executive coach, speaker, and human resources consultant at Executive HR Coach in Silicon Valley, California.

What do these low-stress jobs have in common? According to Sichon, they have clearly defined requirements, so there is no need for a supervisor to hover over your shoulder and check your work frequently - cutting down on anxiety and stress.

And here's the good news: There are a lot of low-stress, high-pay jobs out there. Keep reading to learn about some of the jobs that won't turn your hair gray prematurely.

Low-Stress, High-Pay Job #1: Computer and Information Systems Manager

Median
Annual Salary*

$120,950

Top 10 Percent of Earners

$187,199

Bottom 10 Percent of Earners

$74,940

For computer geeks, the chance to do what you love while earning a lucrative salary makes this a promising career option.
The Low-Stress, High-Pay Factor: "Computer and information systems managers have the freedom to analyze problems and consider the best way to solve them," says Debbie Benami-Rahm, an entertainment and media career expert at DBR Career Services in Los Angeles, California. She explains that the flexibility and independence of this job lends itself to a low-stress work environment.
Regarding pay, "technology changes quickly, and companies need someone at the top of their game," says Benami-Rahm. And while there may be many people with technology skills, "Fewer people have experience managing projects or people, and as a result, computer and information system managers can command good salaries," he explains.
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Computer and information systems managers analyze their organization's computer needs, oversee installations and upgrades, and direct the work of other information technology employees, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They work for computer systems design and related services firms, and telecommuting is becoming more common.
Education Options: Computer and information systems managers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer or information science with relevant work experience, reports the Department of Labor. Many professionals in this occupation also have a graduate degree.

Low-Stress, High-Pay Job #2: Technical Writers

Median
Annual Salary*

$65,500

Top 10 Percent of Earners

$101,660

Bottom 10 Percent of Earners

$38,700

Technical writers can utilize their way with words to earn a hefty salary in a laid-back work environment.
The Low-Stress, High-Pay Factor: "Technical writers have the freedom to be creative and to determine how their work will be performed. In addition, they usually don't have tight deadlines, and some may telecommute," says Benami-Rahm. All of these characteristics make this a low-stress career option.
The job pays well, because technical writing is a specialized skill that many writers don't possess. "There is a desperate need for more technical writers in every industry to provide knowledge to company workers, customers, consultants, etc." says Benami-Rahm. He adds, "This is a hot profession and technical writers have room to negotiate their salaries."
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Technical writers compose how-to-manuals, assembly instructions, and "frequently asked questions," according to the U.S. Department of Labor. While most are employed directly by companies, some technical writers work on a freelance basis and are self-employed or work for technical design or consulting firms. According to the Department of Labor, most technical writers work in offices, although some may telecommute.
Education Options: Employers usually prefer a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or communications, states the Department. However, many technical writing jobs also require knowledge in such specialized fields as engineering, computer science, or medicine.

Low-Stress, High-Pay Job #3: Biomedical Engineers

Median
Annual Salary*

$86,960

Top 10 Percent of Earners

$139,450

Bottom 10 Percent of Earners

$52,600

With a whopping 62 percent job growth rate, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, you won't have to stress over finding a job in the high-paying field of biomedical engineering.
The Low-Stress, High-Pay Factor: "Biomedical engineers have autonomy," says Benami-Rahm. And this autonomy is just one of the reasons why the career is low-stress. "Most people love to do things on their own, and this job allows for that."
"Also, in the U.S., there's such a demand for all engineers," according to Benami-Rahm, who says that many corporations are hiring outside of the U.S., but there is a limit to how many visas they can get. As a result, she says, "Engineers can name their price. If one company can't match it, another company can."
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Biomedical engineers conduct research and design such products as artificial organs and limbs, in addition to sometimes building the materials for these products, according to the Department of Labor. They also design software and electrical circuits for medical equipment and new drug therapies.
Education Options: Biomedical engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering, reports the Department. Applicants with a degree in another area could either pursue a graduate degree in biomedical engineering or get "on-the-job training in biomedical engineering."

Low-Stress, High-Pay Job #4: Art Directors

Median
Annual Salary*

$80,880

Top 10 Percent of Earners

$162,800

Bottom 10 Percent of Earners

$43,870

Getting paid very well to unleash your creative energy makes art director another good low-stress career choice.
The Low-Stress, High-Pay Factor: "Although it may appear to be a challenging position, at the same time, it calls for using an inborn talent, so creative people would find it more exciting than stressful," says Gail Liebhaber, a career consultant  and the owner of Your Career Direction, a career coaching company.
Liebhaber, who is also the former director of career services for the Harvard Graduate School of Design in Cambridge, adds, "Art directors who are highly skilled in online and digital media are in high demand, which accounts for the high salary."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Graphic Design Program.
Art directors are responsible for the overall visual design and style of magazines, newspapers, television and movie productions, and product packaging, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They typically determine the project's concept, supervise a staff of designers, and approve artwork, photography and graphics.
Education Options: Art directors need a bachelor's degree in art or design, in addition to relevant work experience, usually as a graphic designer, photographer, illustrator, copyeditor or another design occupation, reports the Department of Labor.

Low-Stress, High-Pay Job #5: Dental Hygienists

Median
Annual Salary*

$70,210

Top 10 Percent of Earners

$96,280

Bottom 10 Percent of Earners

$46,540

Dental hygienists may not be running the show like dentists, but they still earn a lucrative salary. Plus, they don't have to perform stressful, invasive procedures such as root canals.
The Low-Stress, High-Pay Factor: To begin with, this job starts off as low-stress since it doesn't require a bachelor's degree, according to Liebhaber. The job also has the perks of "pleasant working conditions, seeing the results of your efforts, and flexible hours for those with childcare responsibilities," she explains.
And Siphon adds, "Dental hygienists are in high demand and can command high salaries, because everyone needs to have their teeth checked at least annually."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Dental Hygiene Program.
Dental hygienists take dental X-rays, and remove plaque, tartar, and stains from patients' teeth, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. They also apply sealants and fluorides and teach patients how to properly brush and floss.
Education Options: Dental hygienists typically need an associate's degree in dental hygiene, reports the Department of Labor. They must also have a license to practice but requirements vary by state.

Low-Stress, High-Pay Job #6: Actuaries

Median
Annual Salary*

$93,680

Top 10 Percent of Earners

$175,330

Bottom 10 Percent of Earners

$55,780

If you've got a head for numbers, a career as an actuary could be the right combination of high pay and low stress for you.
The Low-Stress, High-Pay Factor: According to Liebhaber, actuary is consistently ranked as a top job for prestige, salary, and working conditions. She also says this career offers a lot of flexibility, which reduces the stress level for those who need a less rigid work schedule and environment.
And Sichon adds, "Actuaries have a very unique skill set that is both formulaic and measurable. As a result, they're in high demand, and they're well paid."
Next step: Click to Find the Right Business Program.
Actuaries analyze data using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to determine the probability and economic cost of an event, such as sickness, an accident, or a natural disaster, says the U.S. Department of Labor. They also help clients and businesses develop policies that minimize the cost of that risk.
Education Options: Actuaries typically have a bachelor's degree in business, actuarial science, statistics, or mathematics, reports the Department of Labor. Employers increasingly expect applicants to have professional certification, which actuaries earn by passing an actuary exam.

Costly mistakes to avoid in your cover letter

Source: Yahoo

Learn the dos and don'ts of creating a cover letter that can land you an interview.

By Terri Williams

It's been said that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. And if you submit a bad cover letter, you won't get a chance to make that first impression on employers.

"People who read cover letters and resumes can be very picky - they have that luxury," says Richard J. Atkins, Ed., who is the co-chair of career planning & professional development for the Human Resources Association of New York. "You want the job, and so do hundreds of other people," says Atkins.

And the reality is that the slightest error can earn your job application a free trip through the document shredder. So what can you do to ensure you're not inadvertently disqualifying yourself from potential jobs? Keep reading to learn about six costly mistakes when writing cover letters.

Costly Mistake #1: Using Generic Content

If your cover letter is full of generic content, the hiring manager may assume that if you were too lazy to craft a specialized cover letter, you may be as nonchalant about performing your job.

And, generic cover letters are usually easy to spot, according to Lars Schmidt, senior director of talent acquisition & innovation at National Public Radio in Washington, DC. "They don't address the specifics of that job, so they likely won't stand out to a hiring manager."

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So, how do you go about writing the type of cover letter that gets read?

Well, you should tailor your cover letter to each job, according to Schmidt. "It's okay to have a general template (or several), but be sure to address some of the qualities you possess that tie directly to that job and employer," says Schmidt.

Costly Mistake #2: Being Preoccupied With Your Ultimate Career Goal

Maybe you really want a more prestigious job, or one that pays enough money to keep up with the Joneses. However, if you indicate to the hiring manager that this job is just a temporary stop along the way to a better position, you'll appear ungrateful.

"Most hiring managers want to know what skills, experience, and interest you bring to this particular job," says Schmidt. "If you essentially tell them you view the job as something to just 'pay the bills,' they'll pass and find others who aspire to be in that role."

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So, keep your lofty goals to yourself if they don't relate to the job you're applying for.

For example, Leigh Inskeep, who works in Human Resources at Kinder Morgan and writes resumes for Rave.Resumes.com, says that a graphic designer applying for a position that requires HTML experience should write about his proficiency in programming languages, instead of writing about how he can't wait to launch his own graphic design company.

Costly Mistake #3: Displaying Egotism

If you hoard the cover letter by using most of the space to talk about yourself, the hiring manager may see you as a narcissist who will also hog conversations and the company's time.

"Overuse of first-person pronouns, such as 'I,' 'me,' or 'my,' send the message that you're more concerned about yourself than the organization," says Atkins. Instead, he says the cover letter should address the specific wants and needs of the company.

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Therefore, instead of "I would like to speak with you," Atkins recommends, "It would be great to speak with you." And instead of "I am available," write, "Would you be available?"This shows respect for the hiring manager, and demonstrates that it's not all about you, he says.

And when you do talk about yourself, it should be in the context of being a useful and productive team member. For example, a software developer must be able to work independently, but also function as part of a team, "so include characteristics like your ability to work well with others, and how you're open to receiving feedback and critiques from others," Inskeep says.

Costly Mistake #4: Not Proofreading Before You Hit "Send"

Submitting a cover letter with typographical and syntax errors may send the message that you are a careless worker who considers slipshod work perfectly acceptable.

"Mistakes on your cover letter can cost you dearly," says Atkins. "Many hiring managers have said that when they get a resume containing errors, it goes immediately in the 'unacceptable' pile."

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For example, if a company is hiring a human resources manager, Inskeep says this individual is responsible for making sure that the company's documents can pass legal scrutiny. "If they can't submit an error-free cover letter, how can the company trust the accuracy of their work if there's ever any type of legal or ethics investigation?" asks Inskeep.

Costly Mistake #5: Revealing Too Much

Maybe your former boss didn't appreciate your hard work, but badmouthing past employers in your cover letter will leave hiring managers wondering if you have unresolved issues.

"Listing non-relevant personal details before you've had an opportunity to establish interest will usually work against you," warns Schmidt. "You want to make a connection based on your skills and experience."

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And even if you're not sharing bitter experiences, it's still a good idea to make sure that you don't share intimate details.

"It is a very common mistake for candidates to share too much personal information," says Inskeep.

Costly Mistake #6: Overly Displaying Your Artistic Side

Your cover letter is not the place to express your inner child. In other words, leave the cursive type, wild colors, smiley faces, and rainbow backgrounds for another occasion.

"There is a trend lately to try and be provocative in a cover letter to stand out," says Schmidt. He says that sometimes this may work, but it really depends on the audience and culture of the organization, so think carefully about the intended receiver.

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As a general rule, your uniqueness should be expressed through your job skills, not through the use of flowery stationery, or emoticons such as smiley faces, frowns, and winks.

"People don't have time for the fluffy stuff, and emoticons look unprofessional and sophomoric," warns Inskeep. "Hiring managers are accustomed to seeing proper English language and punctuation." For example, if a financial analyst applicant sends in a cover letter on pink stationery with emoticons, the hiring manager will think, "if this is how they communicate with our high-powered clients, it will undermine our company's credibility."