National Edition - November 18, 2007  Newsworthy Will green jobs save the middle class? With the green economy taking off, it's time to line up a "green-collar" job. And, some talented forward-thinking individuals have already made the jump to non-profits and non-governmental organizations without having to make any sacrifices to their lifestyles. According to one of the experts interviewed, the popularity of the green movement is largely owing to the fact that people now have more options available to them and don't have to "wear burlap or eat sand anymore!" (Source: AlterNet) Time Management Work around your body clock Although the North American nine-to-five workday is geared toward early birds and the majority of the population does not fit into any strict category, night owls tend to outnumber early birds 2:1. In fact, new scientific research indicates that the difference between early birds and night owls is genetic, so morning sluggishness can no longer be waved off as laziness. Some individuals are just genetically programmed to be at their best in the late morning and evening. With drowsy workers accountable for 60% to 90% of workplace accidents, employers and employees would be wise to heed their internal clocks, at least where sleep is concerned. (Source: Independent Newspapers) Are you an early bird or a night owl? To answer, click here. Workplace challenges How to negotiate the daily minefield Rapid workplace change has brought with it much uncertainty. People don't always know how to react in the face of technological change and flatter organizational charts. Thankfully, there are newspaper advice columnists to save the day. However, letters do take a while to get published, so responses may be late in coming. By way of a remedy, a Financial Times advice columnist specializing in workplace matters has just published a new book with answers to all the office questions you never dared to ask. (Source: Reuters) Starting a new job How to avoid fashion mistakes New on the job? You'd be better off to overdress and look like a snob, than to under dress and seem a slob. Remember, first impressions are based on appearance, so don't undermine your credibility. In these modern times with intricate sartorial codes, details matter. One of the most opportune moments to scope out style options is during the requisite tour around the office at the prospective employer's premises during the interview. Otherwise, if in doubt, ask the hiring manager. Once on the job, look to your colleagues for inspiration. A good rule of thumb: if you're not dressed well enough to attend a job interview, go back and rummage through your closet. (Source: Jobboom, Career Zone) Job interviews Proving you're the best In this era of specialization, experts are highly sought after. Yet, when up against individuals with similar skills, how do job candidates prove that they indeed are the best qualified? If a hiring manager lobs the question "Why should we hire you?" the most agile would-be employees give answers with substance that are based on fact rather than opinion. Fire back to the boss's questions with short blurbs summarizing your accomplishments, and be sure to give examples. Of course, you will also have to sure-footedly traverse the Crest of Confidence without plummeting into the Abyss of Arrogance. (Source: Jobboom, Career Zone) If you are easily amused, then check out "Cubicle Freakout" an online viral game developed by a UK game designer in his spare time. The goal of the game is to smash up your office cubicle in record time. In the first part of the game, use your mouse to select objects, then freak out! In the second part of the game, hit the spacebar and send your monitor crashing towards the window. The total combined score is based on the level of destruction achieved and the distance of your throw. (Source: Eyegas Digital Media) November 19 - 20 BioNorth Ottawa, ON November 20 Intensive French for Job Seekers Montreal, QC November 20 - 21 MBA Expo 2007 Canada-wide November 21 – 22 3rd Annual Summit on the Mature Workforce Toronto, ON November 21 Best Employers Awards for 50 Plus Canadians Toronto, ON November 21 OIL SANDS 101 - How to do Business in Alberta Sudbury, ON November 22 Become an Effective Communicator Toronto, ON November 22 Career and Diversity Forum Toronto, ON November 28 - 30 Construct Canada Toronto, ON November 30 Calgary YEC 2007 Bursary Deadline Calgary, AB December 2 – 5 CSTD Annual Conference Toronto, ON December 3 International Day of People with Disabilities Conference Toronto, ON December 4 Fraser Valley Education & Career Fair Abbotsford, BC December 6 Studio to Big Screen Montreal, QC December 6 Vancouver Island Education & Career Fair Victoria, BC December 13 BC HRMA's Holiday Party & Silent Auction Victoria, BC December 17 - 18 The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People Montreal, QC NOTICE: Jobboom and its sponsors do not necessarily endorse the opinions conveyed in the articles selected for this e-zine and do not assume any legal liability in consequence thereof. Comments: info@jobboom.com Research and editing: Austin Macdonald #noDossier#