Answering Wild-Card Interview Questions

by Maria Hanson, LiveCareer.com


How would you respond if you were asked one of the following interview questions:

"If aliens landed here right now, what would you do?"
"What did you want to be when you were 8 years old?"
"What would your refrigerator say if it could talk?"

These types of odd questions are called "wild cards" because they seem to come out of nowhere. With the current economic climate allowing employers to be more picky, these types of questions are becoming more common. A stellar resume, impressive credentials, and strong interviewing skills are no longer enough.

While a rare interviewer may ask these questions simply to watch you squirm, many wild-card questions serve a purpose. Generally speaking, interviewers ask these questions to see how well you perform under pressure and think on your feet. They also might ask wild cards to break out of the routine of a typical interview in order to get a glimpse of your genuine personality.

Here are some real questions as reported by job seekers, with some insight into what interviewers may be looking for -- and how to deliver:

"If there was a fire in your house, what two things would you save?"

What's the point? The interviewer is trying to determine how well your ideals and principles match the company's values.

Approach: Find an honest answer that aligns you with the values of the company with which you are interviewing.

Possible response: If you're applying for a job as a technical project manager, for example, you might say: "My computer and my family photo album." This shows your obvious technical side but also demonstrates that you prioritize relationships. This could help distinguish you from your fellow techie competitors.

"If you were a cereal, what would you be?"

What's the point? The interviewer is trying to gain some insight into your work personality to see what kind of worker you will be. If you are unsure of what your work personality is, you can take a career interest test to find out.

Approach: Try to tie your answer back to the job requirements.

Possible response: If you were interviewing for a nursing assistant, position, you could say: "Cheerios. Because I'm reliable, consistent, and good for you!" -- all positive qualities for someone in the health-care industry.

"If you were writing an autobiography, what would its title be?"

What's the point? This question gives the interviewer a peek into your self-perception as well as a read on how creative you are.

Approach: Emphasize your main selling points. If you can't come up with something original on the fly, perhaps there is a song or movie title that captures your essence. You don't need to invent something on the spot as long as you can provide a good explanation for the title you choose.

Possible response: If you were applying for a job as a social worker, you could say "I Will Survive," explaining that the hardships you personally experienced made you a stronger person, qualified to help others to work through their own issues.

It's impossible to rehearse the best responses to wild-card interview questions, since, by definition, they are unpredictable. But you can prep. Even if you don't get asked the specific questions you've practiced for, you'll still have a better handle on wild cards in general. If you answer honestly and justify your response, you'll likely impress your interviewers and be one step closer to landing your dream job.


Jobs Sources

Where the Community-Service Jobs Are

Where the Community-Service Jobs Are

Details on Wages and Duties in Some Major Programs
by Molly Hallman, PayScale.com


A study by the Corporation for National and Community Service showed that more people are volunteering today than any time since 1974, with the adult volunteer rate jumping more than 32 percent since 1989. As the trend toward civic-mindedness increases, many are interested in full-time service work that will also pay some or all of the bills.

Whether you are about to graduate from college, or have many years of work experience, here are some service opportunities to explore:

Peace Corps
Expertise -- Various, college degree
Service Program Fee -- None
Commitment -- 2 years
Application Deadlines -- None, application process 9-12 months
Pay -- Stipend (don't expect much)
End of Service Awards -- Over $6000 plus partial student loan cancellations

The Peace Corps is not just for recent college graduates. "Persons at every level in their career can find value in serving in the Peace Corps," says Brian Palermi, currently serving in Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies with his wife, Amber. "Serving in the Peace Corps [shows prospective employers that] you are creative, good at problem solving, motivated, hard-working and can survive two years living and working in sometimes difficult conditions."

In the Peace Corps, you aren't given an actual salary, but rather a stipend, allowing you to experience the same economic level as the people you are serving. You do, however, get a $6,000 welcome-back-to-America bonus when you are done. Your medical and dental are paid, and you qualify for partial student loan cancellations. There is no deadline to apply for the Peace Corps, but applications take nine to 12 months to process.

"It is amazing to me how much I learned as a Peace Corps volunteer and how applicable it is to working in the United States," said Trey Waters, a small enterprise development volunteer in Ghana, 2006-2008. "When I left we were operating a functioning tourism site, had started an advertising campaign to get more visitors, set up a functioning accounting system, were able to use money generated from tourism for projects in the community, and had set up a weaving cooperative," said Waters.

Americorps
Expertise -- Various, degree not required
Service Program Fee -- None
Commitment -- 10-12 months
Application Deadlines -- April 1st and July 1st
Pay -- Various, $800 per month is a common wage
End of Service Awards -- $4725 education award or $1200 cash for some

Like the Peace Corps, Americorps is government-sponsored and offers modest compensation. "Americorp participants know they have to sacrifice to adjust to [modest] living. It's a 10-12 month temporary lifestyle change but can be really transformational. They make it work. Sometimes Americorps participants pool resources and a whole lot of them live together. Many get food stamps to keep their pledge to live at the same economic level as those they are serving," says Brighid Jensen, assistant director of student development at Wake Forest University.

There are three basic categories to Americorps: NCCC, Vista, and the generic Americorps umbrella. Former Americorps volunteer Danielle Stanton says, "Helping kids and forming relationships with them was such an amazing feeling. I felt like such a leader by the end of it."

Jensen recommends students allow about three months to research and apply to multiple spots within Americorps to increase their chances of getting into the program. Overall, about one in four applications are accepted. Americorps NCCC is specifically for adults ages 18-24. All other Americorps opportunities have no upper age limit.

Teach for America
Expertise -- Various four-year degrees
Service Program Fee -- None
Commitment -- 2 years
Application Deadlines -- April 1st and July 1st
Pay -- $27,000 to $47,000 per year, depending on location.
End of Service Awards -- $9,495 education award

Teach for America offers college graduates from a variety of disciplines the opportunity to become teachers in under-privileged neighborhoods. Historically very selective, 35,000 people applied for this year's 4,000 slots. Compared to other community service opportunities, Teach for America has the most lucrative benefits including full teacher's starting salary, summer housing, and health benefits. Most participants do not plan to make teaching their career.

Doctors Without Borders
Expertise -- At least two years professional experience, both medical and other fields
Service Program Fee -- None
Commitment -- Usually one year
Application Deadlines -- None, 4-6 month application process
Pay -- $1,404 per month
End of Service Awards -- None

Doctors Without Borders is an NGO (non-government organization) founded in France by doctors and journalists. Not just for doctors, this organization sends participants overseas to deliver hands-on medical care and to design community projects that improve the health of impoverished communities. Nurses, scientists, mental health professionals, financial controllers, logisticians, and water-and-sanitation specialists with two years or more of experience are invited to apply.

Volunteers for Prosperity
Expertise -- Various and numerous
Service Program Fee -- Some yes, some no
Commitment -- Varies depending on position and organization
Application Deadlines -- Varies
Pay -- Varies
End of Service Awards -- No

With this government-sponsored Web portal of non-profits you can search for the type of volunteer opportunity you want. Long-term and overseas opportunities are listed and the criteria and job requirements differ for each one. The way it works is you do your research and contact the nonprofit organization directly. VfP grants are available for individuals with three years of professional work experience. The volunteer who raises at least as much of his or her own funding can apply to receive $500 to $1,000 for travel and other expenses associated with volunteering abroad.

Best Jobs for Your Health

Best Jobs for Your Health
by Maria Hanson, LiveCareer.com


A job may be good for your financial well-being, but how good is a job for your physical and mental health? There are obvious qualities that make a job healthy, like low risk of injury or opportunities for a fair amount of exercise.

But many jobs can be considered healthy for less tangible reasons. There are certain characteristics that have been scientifically shown to produce big health benefits. Here are four important health-promoting job traits and some sample healthy jobs, along with median salary data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Autonomy/Personal Control

Numerous studies have shown that the more personal control people have in their lives, the less their chances of depression and heart disease and the better their health in general.

Sample Jobs:
CEO: $158,560
Writer: $53,070
Plumber: $45,640

Get-Healthy Tips: If you don't have much personal control in your current job, it may be time to update your skills. Greater education levels often lead to increased autonomy on the job. Or consider starting a business. Entrepreneurs thrive on being their own bosses, and have high levels of control over their ventures.

Take a free entrepreneur test to see if this road to autonomy is right for you.

Mentally Demanding

Recent studies reveal the surprising benefits of working in a mentally demanding job. Not only do those whose brains work overtime have greater cognitive skills throughout their careers and after, they also have less chance of getting Alzheimer's disease.

Sample Jobs:
Research scientist: $112,800
Systems engineer: $75,500
Business analyst: $73,570

Get-Healthy Tips: Try to find ways to take on more challenging tasks at work. Taking classes, attending seminars and reading books can also all benefit your brain -- now and in years to come -- as well as your career.

Take a free education test to find out whether a degree or course can benefit you.

Low Stress

Everyone experiences stress at times, but numerous studies have shown that chronic stress can be harmful to your health. Jobs that are low-stress can help decrease your susceptibility to problems like heart disease, headaches, chronic pain, lowered immunity and even obesity.

Sample jobs:
Librarian: $52,530
Appliance repair: $33,910
Florist: $23,230

Get-Healthy Tips: Being organized with your work projects can diminish stress. Make to-do lists and keep organizers and calendars up to date. In addition, be sure to take breaks, no matter how pressing your deadline. Learn meditation. Research has shown that even a few minutes of meditation a day can clear away stress.

Social

Research has shown that connecting with others in a meaningful way is key to many areas of health. It can lower blood pressure, decrease heart disease, prevent depression, keep you cognitively fit, reduce stress, and increase lifespan.

Sample Jobs:
School counselor: $51,050
Mediator: $50,660
Human-resources recruiter: $45,470

Get-Healthy Tips: If your job lacks a social element, make an extra effort to reach out and connect with others at work. Seek a mentor. Accept group lunch invitations. Or get your social boost by filling up your social calendar outside of work.

The Hottest Part-Time Jobs

The Hottest Part-Time Jobs
by Woodrow Aames, FindtheRightSchool.com


The testy economy has forced many Americans to rethink their notions of work and careers. Many are happy just to have a steady job. Still others have had to take jobs outside of their chosen professions or add part-time jobs to supplement their income. There are solid choices for part-time jobs with good pay for workers who are looking to re-train, students who are already in a college degree program but need to work to pay for tuition, and working parents who require flexible schedules.

Among the hottest part-time jobs today, you'll find several that require candidates to have completed as little as one or two years of college training. With the flexibility of many online associate's degree programs, you can work your way into a new profession without compromising the hours you put into your current work and family commitments.

Let's look at several part-time positions with solid growth potential, along with the education you'll need to qualify and the hourly wages.

Computer Support Specialist

Computer support specialists are lucky. They're needed by every employer that relies on an efficient, secure computer network to support the organization. Computer support specialists work as part-time or as on-call technicians that install, configure, and lend support to employees. Industries like health care, banking, sales, construction, and manufacturing depend on well-trained, reliable support specialists to handle help-desk tickets.

You can learn the tools of the tech trade while earning an online associate's degree at a college or tech school career training program.

In 2008, computer support specialists earned a median hourly wage of $22.29, and network support specialists drew $33.45 an hour.

Veterinary Technician

Jobs for veterinary technicians are expected to rise by 41 percent during the 2006-2016 decade. According to the Labor Department, more than half of America's pet owners take their animals to a vet for routine or emergency treatment. Learn how to support veterinarians through an associate's or bachelor's degree program to qualify for vet clinic or hospital work.

The median hourly wage in 2008 for veterinary technicians: $14.35.

Massage Therapist

More than 60 percent of working massage therapists in the U.S. are self-employed professionals. Others work in clinics and in partnership with other alternative health practitioners like acupuncturists and chiropractors. Follow massage therapy career training and licensing guildelines for your state, then build your own clientele and set your own hours.

The median hourly wage in 2008 for massage therapists: $19.16.

Bill or Account Collector

Especially now, companies around the country are hiring bill and account collectors to help round up stragglers. The Labor Department projects a 23 percent increase in jobs for bill collectors over the 2006-2016 decade. Not everyone will work for financial institutions or retailers. Many of the jobs will be in doctor's offices and with hospitals. Employers will prefer college-trained employees for their collection teams, the Labor Department says, but may offer career training. You can gain practical knowledge through online associate's degree programs in bookkeeping, accounting, or business.

The median hourly wage in 2008 for bill or account collectors: $15.47.

Dental Assistant

Dental assistants can train for office and chair-side procedures in as little as a year through a certificate program, although there are also degree programs available that take two years. Work part-time hours taking X-rays, prepping patients, and handling the desk. It can be a great part-time, stepping-stone job to hold while you complete dental hygienist training for substantially better pay. Still, the hours and benefits can be nothing to sneeze at if you need a part-time job.

The median hourly wage in 2008 for dental assistants: $15.95.

Product Promoter

Product promoters work in salesrooms, malls, supermarkets, computer and technology trade shows, fairs, and festivals, hawking everything from the latest vacuum cleaner to a speedy computer processor. You'll need strong "people skills" and training in the nuts-and-bolts of the products you're selling. Jobs are predicted to rise by a solid 18 percent between 2006 and 2016. Build your product knowledge through online or campus-based courses in computers, business, fashion design, or sales and marketing.

The median hourly wage in 2008 for product promoters and product demonstrators: $13.05.

Don't underestimate the perks of part-time work, including free time to devote to studies, family, or a job search effort in the field of your choice.

Woodrow Aames has written articles and profiles for Yahoo!, Microsoft Network, Microsoft Encarta, and other websites and print magazines around the world.

Career Search

Well-Paid Jobs That Won't Be Outsourced

Well-Paid Jobs That Won't Be Outsourced
by Carol Tice, PayScale.com


Not so long ago, having advanced computer skills was considered the ultimate in job security. How times have changed. Now, tech jobs are among the most heavily outsourced. Research firm Computer Economics recently estimated that more than half of all software application development work was contracted out last year, often to workers in other countries, along with 44 percent of application maintenance tasks and 40 percent of website and e-commerce work.

So which well-paid careers won't be shipped overseas? Our experts -- career coaches Susan Bernstein, founder of Work from Within, LLC in San Francisco, and feature writer and instructor Paym Bergson in Toronto -- offer this list of hard-to-outsource jobs that highlights a variety of industry sectors.

The jobs share a key factor, Bernstein says. "Think about things where you literally have to touch or see people," she says. "Managing anything related to personal services or health care -- that can't be outsourced."

1. Physician assistant -- Despite the global economy, doctors will still need to see patients in person, and physician assistants will need to be on hand to free doctors from many routine clinical tasks. Becoming a physician assistant requires a bachelor's degree and board certification, at the very least, but most physician assistants complete a master's degree, as well. This is a highly lucrative field which, like most jobs in healthcare, is forecast to grow rapidly in the years to come.
Median annual salary: $85,124

2. Education administrator (elementary school) -- If you're a teacher or have been one, completing a master's degree could position you for this well-paid role setting policy and overseeing day-to-day operations at a school -- which can only be done onsite. Bernstein says roles may vary from project management to overseeing staff. Keep in mind that elementary school administration pays more than the job does at many other institutional levels, according to PayScale.com.
Median annual salary: $70,163

3. Facilities manager -- Venues from concert halls to colleges need someone on hand to make sure they're properly maintained and staffed.
Median annual salary: $59,332

4. Dental hygienist -- No matter how far technology advances, it's unlikely you'll be able to get your teeth cleaned here by someone who's overseas. Bergson notes that once you're in the dental field, you can move fairly easily into a variety of other roles including selling dental supplies.
Median annual salary: $57,148

5. Psychiatric nurse -- Nurses in this in-demand field assist patients with mental-health issues, in a range of settings. A two-year degree is the usual starter ticket into this field, which the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts will see rapid growth. Bernstein reports this field is "the easiest specialty to get into as a nurse," with no waiting for needed hands-on training.
Median annual salary: $56,835

6. Retail sales manager -- If you've held sales positions, consider moving up to management. It's hard enough to motivate salespeople to be their best in person -- it's not going to happen from another country. While many sales managers have at least a two-year degree, others work their way up on the job.
Median annual salary: $48,543

7. Landscaping worker -- Nobody's trimming your hedge from abroad. And gardening work is surprisingly lucrative, and forecast to grow, especially in grounds maintenance for commercial buildings and golf courses. In this enjoyable field, workers are often self-taught. Bergson reports many in colder climes fill in the slow winter months by also offering snow-removal services.
Median annual salary: $46,973

8. Computer network installer -- Though many computer jobs have been widely outsourced, the BLS expects this role to see exceptional job growth. Someone still has to show up in person to set up wireless networks or thread fiber-optic cable to someone's home when they need an Internet connection.
Median annual salary: $46,578

9. Automotive repair -- It would take too long and cost too much in transportation to ship your car off to a foreign land for repairs, so mechanic jobs will stay in the U.S. Ditto for truck and airplane repair. And the BLS expects job prospects to be good, as a wave of workers are hitting retirement age.
Median annual salary: $45,150

10. Catering manager -- Food spoils, and with the trend toward eating local, it's clear that catering isn't going to see much outsourcing, says Bernstein. Some managers learn this task while working in the foodservice industry as chefs or servers, while others have a culinary arts degree.
Median annual salary: $44,356

Business reporter Carol Tice contributes to several national and regional business publications.

Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with 5-8 years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions, or profit sharing.

10 Best Bets for a Solid Second Career

10 Best Bets for a Solid Second Career
by Molly Hallman, PayScale.com


A layoff can make you rethink your direction and wonder, "Should I do something else?"

According to Clark Beecher, principal at Magellan International, Houston, before you make that decision you should first be aware that corporations on the whole are doing "something else," too.

"Employers will move away from employing people en masse and move toward outsourcing professional services [in areas] like finance, business process consulting, investment banking, and legal," says Beecher. So, if you don't have one now, gaining an essential skill to offer, either on the job, through online resources or at school, may be your key to future paychecks.

Which skills will be in demand? Here are 10 jobs with promising outlooks and experts tips on the training required for them. Check them out if you are considering a new career:

1) Information Technology Manager

According to the Department of Labor Statistics, companies prefer candidates with an MBA and an emphasis in IT. Regardless of the type of MBA, Beecher advises splurging on the best school you can get into. "A degree from a pedigree school can deliver $150-200K per year after five years and that person can expect to earn that much for the rest of their [working] lives," says Beecher.
Median annual salary: $67,393

2) Registered Nurse

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career with the greatest expected increase in available jobs over the next seven years is registered nurse. If you have an aptitude for science, a compassionate nature, and like the idea of variable hours, an RN degree may be your ticket to future employment. Not to be confused with LPNs or LVNs, it takes four years of education to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing or two to three years to receive and associate's degree from a community college. Either path can lead to an RN certification.
Median annual salary: $55,910

3) Software Developer

Still a strong option both in terms of salary potential and employability, software developers may consider the area of "casual game" development. "One of the fastest growing segments in the gaming industry is casual gaming. Every month an estimated 200 million consumers play casual games online, many of whom do not normally regard themselves as gamers or fans of video games," says Henry DeVries, director of communications at UC San Diego Extended Studies and Public Programs. UC San Diego offers an extension program for casual gaming education to assist graphic artists and programmers.
Median annual salary: $70,834

4) Gaming Manager

Viva Las Vegas! Not to be confused with the above computer gaming industry, this title refers to managers in casinos. Gaming manager jobs are expected increase by 24.4 percent by 2016, according to the BLS. This career path requires a specific effort to gain experience in the gaming industry, knowledge of casino regulations, and the general operations. An associate or bachelor's degree is useful but not mandatory.
Median annual salary: $48,000

5) Environmental Engineer

With our society and government looking for new ways to protect the environment, degrees in environmental studies and engineering are becoming more popular. There are different areas of specialty you can focus on. For example, "Environmental engineers study the environmental impact of a proposed construction project, analyze data and assess the extent of possible harm to the environment. As a result of their evaluation, they may recommend that the construction plans be altered to minimize potential harm," reports Alice Ramey, economist at the Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Median annual salary: $61,440

6) Pharmacist

If you already have a bachelor's degree and the prerequisites for pharmacy school, a few more years in school can offer an excellent return on your investment. This is one of two careers where PayScale data showed an increase in salary over the last six months. (The other career is physical therapist.)
Median annual salary: $98,232

7) Financial Advisor

Do you love numbers and people? Financial advisors help people make decisions about where to invest their money to help them enhance the quality of their lives. Some training programs exist that do not require a college degree, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics says a bachelor's or graduate degree offers the best prospects both in terms of employment opportunities and higher salaries. With prospects for jobs to increase by 41 percent, this is one to check out.
Median annual salary: $59,979

8) Licensed Physical Therapist

With 27 percent growth expected by 2016, licensed physical therapy is another graduate degree program with promise of jobs in the future and excellent compensation. Most programs require a master's or doctorate-level degree.
Median annual salary: $64,322

9) Paralegal

Job prospects for paralegals are expected to rise 22 percent by 2016. According to the BLS, part of this growth may be attributed to paralegals gaining responsibility and performing more tasks once commonly done by lawyers. If you like responsibility, can work under pressure, and have an eye for detail, a career as a paralegal may be for you. Paralegal education is available as a certificate, post-graduate program, associate, bachelor's and master's degree, or some companies may even teach you on the job.
Median annual salary: $44,751.

10) Social Worker

With 22 percent growth projected, a career as a social worker can begin with a bachelor's degree in sociology or social work. With a variety of potential work environments, ranging from schools to rescue shelters, part-time and full-time job opportunities are expected to increase over the next eight years.
Median annual salary: $40,986

Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with 5-8 years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions or profit sharing.

How to Work in Health Care, Without Ever Seeing Blood or Needles

by Elysha Rom-Povolo, HealthJobsStartHere.com


Even in a tough economy, a health job can offer a good paycheck and great job security. But if you can't stand the sight of blood or needles, you might not have considered what health jobs are out there.

In fact, lots of health jobs don't deal with blood at all -- and many don't even deal with patients.

Here are five examples of great health jobs that don't go anywhere near blood, guts, or needles. You can find out about more about how to get into jobs like these at HealthJobsStartHere.com.

Pharmacy Technician ($28,500 average annual salary)

Some pharmacy technicians work in drug stores or grocery store pharmacies and never even set foot in a hospital. Pharmacy technicians are the people who work the cash register, answer the phone, and perform tasks to prepare medications like counting tablets and labeling bottles. Getting a certification will help you stand out, but most pharmacy technicians get training on the job.

Medical Transcriptionist ($32,960 average annual salary)

Many medical transcriptionists never see patients. Instead, they work on their own, listening to audio recordings made by doctors and typing them up for medical records. Some medical transcriptionists work from the comfort of their own homes. You can begin working as a medical transcriptionist after completing a one- or two-year training program on medical terminology.

Physical Therapist Assistant ($46,300 average annual salary)

Along with the physical therapist, it's the physical therapist assistant's job to help patients overcome challenges like arthritis or lower back pain and regain movement. They might show their patients new exercises and stretches or help out by preparing the equipment for patients to use. Physical therapist assistants need to complete a two-year associate's degree before beginning work, but if you want to see what working in physical therapy is like first, you can get a job as a physical therapist aide without any special training.

Medical Records and Health Information Technicians ($30,610 average annual salary)

If you are a detail-oriented person and interested in an office job, this job might be right for you. Medical records and health information technicians maintain patient files for doctors and insurance companies by making sure that records are entered completely and accurately in the computer. You can become a medical records and health information technician once you complete a two-year associate's degree.

Dietitian ($51,470 average annual salary)

Dietitians are experts on nutrition and food. After getting a four-year college degree, dietitians have a lot of options for where to work and what they want to focus on. They might plan food programs for a cafeteria, work one-on-one with patients who have long-term illnesses like diabetes to develop individual nutrition plans for them, or even consult with athletes to help them eat right to achieve their best performances.

Average salaries are based on May 2008 Wage Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job descriptions and training requirements are based on the 2008-09 Edition U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Salaries, job descriptions and training requirements may vary for different employers and in different parts of the country.

Job Info , Jobs Sources , Career

10 Ways to Be Liked in Your Job Interview

by Jonathan Littman and Marc Hershon

No matter your resume and talents, if you mess up a job interview you won't get that position. In today's tough economy you need every possible edge. As authors of the new book, "I Hate People! Kick Loose from the Overbearing and Underhanded Jerks at Work and Get What you Want Out of Your Job," we see it as a simple equation: You want to be liked -- not hated.

Here are 10 simple things to do that will dramatically increase your chances: from wearing the right expression, to knowing what not to say, to never ever breaking a sweat.

1. Don't be a "smiley face."

Excessive smiling in a job interview is seen for what it is -- nervousness and a lack of confidence. A smiley-face person exudes phoniness, which will quickly be picked up by the interviewer. Instead be thoughtful and pleasant. Smile when there's something to smile about. Do a practice run in front of a mirror or friend.

2. Don't be a small-talker.

Your job is to be knowledgeable about the company for which you're interviewing. Random facts about last night's episode of "Dancing with the Stars" or your favorite blog will not get you the job. Never feel you have to fill an interview with small talk. Find ways to talk about serious subjects related to the industry or company. Pockets of silence are better than padding an interview with random babble.

3. Don't sweat.

You can lose a job by wearing an undershirt or simply a little too much clothing. Sweaty palms or beads on your forehead will not impress. You are not applying to be a personal trainer. Sweat will be seen as a sign of weakness and nervousness. Do a practice run with your job interview outfit in front of friends. The job interview is one place you definitely don't want to be hot.

4. Don't be a road block.

Interviewers are seeking candidates eager to take on challenging projects and jobs. Hesitance and a nay-saying mentality will be as visible as a red tie -- and seen as a negative. Practice saying "yes" to questions about your interest in tasks and work that might normally give you pause.

5. Don't be petty.

Asking the location of the lunchroom or meeting room will clue the interviewer into your lack of preparation and initiative. Prepare. Don't ask questions about routine elements or functions of a company: where stuff is, the size of your cube, and company policy on coffee breaks.

6. Don't be a liar.

Studies show that employees lie frequently in the workplace. Lying won't get you a job. In a job interview even a slight exaggeration is lying. Don't. Never stretch your resume or embellish accomplishments. There's a difference between speaking with a measured confidence and engaging in BS. One lie can ruin your entire interview, and the skilled interviewer will spot the lie and show you the door.

7. Don't be a bad comedian.

Humor tends to be very subjective, and while it may be tempting to lead your interview with a joke you've got to be careful about your material. You probably will know nothing about the sensibilities of your interviewer, let alone what makes them laugh. On the other hand, nothing disarms the tension of a job interview like a little laughter, so you can probably score at least a courtesy chuckle mentioning that it's "perfect weather for a job interview!"

8. Don't be high-maintenance.

If you start talking about the ideal office temperature, the perfect chair for your tricky back, and how the water cooler needs to be filled with imported mineral water, chances are you'll be shown a polite smile and the door, regardless of your qualifications. Nobody hiring today is going to be looking for someone who's going to be finicky about their workspace.

9. Don't be a time-waster.

At every job interview, the prospective hire is given the chance to ask questions. Make yours intelligent, to the point, and watch the person across the desk for visual cues whether you've asked enough. Ask too many questions about off-target matters and you'll be thought of as someone destined to waste the company's resources with insignificant and time-wasting matters.

10. Don't be a switchblade.

Normally the switchblade is thought of a backstabber, often taking credit for someone else's work. In an interview setting, the switchblade can't help but "trash talk" his former employer. If you make it seem like your former workplace was hell on Earth, the person interviewing you might be tempted to call them to find out who was the real devil.

Copyright 2009 Jonathan Littman and Marc Hershon, authors of "I Hate People!: Kick Loose from the Overbearing and Underhanded Jerks at Work and Get What You Want Out of Your Job"

Jonathan Littman is the author of "I Hate People!" and numerous works of nonfiction, including "The Fugitive Game," "The Watchman," and "The Beautiful Game." He is a columnist for Yahoo! Sports.

Marc Hershon is the coauthor of "I Hate People!" and a branding expert who helped to create the names for the BlackBerry, Swiffer, and many other influential products.

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Interviewing the Interviewer

Smart Questions to Ask the Hiring Manager During a Job Interview

by Doug White, Robert Half International

Of all the questions a hiring manager may ask you during a job interview, the last one could be the most important -- and trickiest to answer: "Do you have any questions for me?"

This simple query can stump even the best-prepared job candidates. Yet, it offers a golden opportunity to set yourself apart from other applicants. Asking smart and pertinent questions allows you to steer the conversation and expand upon your top skills, qualifications, and attributes. Following are wise questions to consider -- and some of the reasons they're worth asking:

Question #1: What are the opportunities for advancement, and do you typically promote from within?

Given the high costs associated with hiring and training new staff, employers are looking for job candidates who will stick around for a while. Asking this question shows that you are ambitious, goal-oriented, and eager to grow with the firm over the long term. It also can help you determine what your professional future with the organization would be like.

Question #2: What types of training programs do you offer?

Employers value workers who keep up with the latest industry trends and developments. By asking this question, you can emphasize your dedication to expanding your skill set. If applicable, it never hurts to mention several specific proficiencies you've gained through previous professional-development programs or continuing education courses you've taken.

Question #3: While researching your firm I learned that the company recently [fill in the blank]. Can you tell me a little bit more about this development?

Impress interviewers by doing your homework. Review the firm's website, marketing materials, executive bios, and recent annual reports to get a good sense of the organization and its leaders. Asking a beyond-the-basics question shows that you're a serious candidate who's interested enough in the position to scratch beneath the surface to learn as much as possible about the firm.

Question #4: Will I primarily be working independently or as part of a team?

Possessing strong interpersonal skills is critical for most positions today. That said, being self-directed also is necessary at times. Depending on how the employer responds to this question, be ready to offer an anecdote from your professional life that highlights your ability to collaborate effectively or work autonomously.

Question #5: Can you tell me what my average day would be like?

This question can help you gather information that allows you to better evaluate your interest in the job. You might learn about aspects of the job that don't appeal to you, such as the expectation that workers stay at the office until late evening, or be reassured that the opportunity is right.

Question #6: What do you enjoy most about working here?

This gives the interviewer a chance to sell you on the company. Pay close attention to how quickly and passionately this question is answered. Happy employees who love their jobs don't have to struggle to come up with reasons why they enjoy their work. A short, ho-hum response may speak volumes.

Finally, at the close of the interview, take a moment to reiterate your enthusiasm about the open position and the company. Thank the interviewer for his or her time, and be sure to follow up with a handwritten note of appreciation.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com. For additional workplace articles and podcasts, visit www.workvine.com.

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How Healthy Is Your Network?

8 Questions to Assess Your Professional Network's Strength

by Margaret Steen, for Yahoo! HotJobs

If you needed to find a new job, how many people could you turn to for help? If the answer is "not many," you may need to upgrade your professional network.

"Maintaining a network should be a routine part of your career development strategy, not just something you turn toward in a career crisis," said Janet Civitelli, associate director of University Career Services at the University of Houston, who works with both students and alumni.

Civitelli and other experts offer these questions for assessing the health of your network:

1. How many former co-workers' contact information do you have?

Focus particularly on your peers and people above you in the organization.

The more people you're in touch with, the better. If you need to beef up the number of people in your network, a tool like LinkedIn can help, both with searching and with keeping up with former colleagues' job moves.

2. Does your network include a handful of people who could serve as references?

These people need to be willing to recommend you -- and they need to know your work well. "References can't be vaguely positive," Civitelli said.

If you can't think of four to six good reference candidates, you need to step up your networking to make sure people you work with know about your achievements.

3. How many of your contacts have you communicated with in the past six months?

This is a measure of your active network.

"You don't need to talk to everyone in your network every three minutes," said Richard Phillips, owner of Advantage Career Solutions. But you should check in regularly, even if you just send a brief email saying you hope all is well. That way, when you do need to ask for job-hunting help, it will be "emotionally much easier" to make the contact.

4. Have you had lunch or coffee with someone from your network in the past month?

Make a point of meeting in person with a former colleague or another professional connection every few weeks.

5. Have you attended a professional event recently?

Attending professional conferences will help you expand your network beyond former colleagues. Becoming active in a professional association will also boost your resume.

6. Have you added any professional contacts in the past month?

Your network needs to grow in order to stay vital. Try to add new contacts -- either by getting back in touch with former colleagues or by meeting new people -- frequently.

7. Are you networking "outside the box" -- that is, making connections beyond your former colleagues and friends?

Job opportunities can arise from unexpected sources. Marianne Adoradio, a career counselor in Silicon Valley, recommends expanding your network to include some people outside your industry and at different stages of their careers, who can tell you about trends and opportunities you might not otherwise hear about.

8. When your professional contacts get in touch with you, do you answer?

"People just kind of steer away from you if you're not responding," Adoradio said.

What if a contact is asking for job leads and you don't have any? "You do have the ability to offer something of great value," Phillips said: encouragement. This will also increase the chances that that person will help you sometime in the future.

Follow one of these Yahoo! HotJobs accounts on Twitter for jobs in selected metro regions, and you'll get "tweets" when a relevant new job is posted.

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Beyond Payday: 5 Jobs With Great Perks

by Natalie Morris, FindtheRightSchool.com

Unless you were born with a silver spoon in your mouth and a trust fund in your back pocket, you need to consider compensation and benefits when choosing a job. But make sure to look beyond the basics of paychecks, health benefits, and a 401(k) to careers providing unique perks that can improve your quality of life. These five careers, available in almost every community, incorporate significant perks that make them worth a look.

Sales Representative

Sales representatives offer the classic example of on-the-job perks, although they can vary widely based on industry and level of responsibility. A life in sales requires regular communication with current and potential customers about products, pricing, and logistics, so you can expect common perks to include a cell phone, laptop computer, car allowance, and frequent flyer miles. Many companies offer incentives to their sales reps for excellent results, including bonuses, special gifts, or complimentary vacations.

You need to know: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median annual earnings for a sales representative working directly for a wholesaler or manufacturer was $61,470 in 2008, rising to $79,260 for people selling technical and scientific products. Although no specific education is required for sales reps, a bachelor's degree or even an M.B.A. can increase your opportunities for career growth.

Registered Nurse

If your career checklist includes flexibility (check), helping people (check), and excellent compensation (check), becoming a registered nurse (RN) could prove extremely rewarding. As part of a health care team, RNs provide medical treatment to sick or injured patients in a wide variety of settings. Largely due to both an aging population and an aging nursing workforce, the BLS expects the demand for RNs to increase very quickly in coming years. In fact, they expect 587,000 new jobs for registered nurses by 2016, among the largest of any career group. So what kind of on-the-job perks can you expect as an RN? High demand means that hospitals and other health-care companies have to work harder to attract and keep their good nurses. In many cases, companies will offer perks like signing bonuses, flexible work schedules, and education assistance.

You need to know: RN salaries have become increasingly competitive, too, with a mean annual wage of $65,130, according to the BLS's 2008 report. Your career training options for becoming a registered nurse include pursuing an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in nursing.

Public Relations Managers

Just working in the often glamorous field of public relations may seem like a perk. As a public relations manager, you would work closely with executives and clients to create a positive public image for a company or product. Schmoozing with media contacts, attending social events, and the opportunity to mix-and-mingle with high-profile execs could boost your social life and your career. Since wining and dining clients comes with the territory, company expense accounts are a typical perk for PR managers.

You need to know: The BLS reports that the mean annual wage for such jobs was $101,220 in May 2008. Not surprisingly, competition is high in the public relations field and if you have experience and a bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, or other related fields, you'll have a distinct advantage over your peers.

Hotel Manager

Love to experience new people and places? Working in hotel management can open up a whole world of travel possibilities. Hotel managers are responsible for ensuring that their guests enjoy all aspects of a visit and that their property is run with an eye on profit. If you're looking for the most perks, pursue jobs with high-end hotels and resorts whose benefits can include bonuses, tuition assistance, meals, laundry services, and more. One unique plus of this career is free or highly discounted hotel rooms throughout the United States and even internationally, a practice especially common for those working in a large hospitality chain.

You need to know: Career training programs are provided by many hotels and resorts, but candidates should have an associate's or bachelor's degree in hospitality or hotel management plus industry experience before applying. The BLS reports that in May 2008 salaried hotel managers earned a mean annual wage of $52,550.

Elementary Teacher

You earned your way through high school as a babysitter, you love the thought of making an impact on the next generation, and you've been thinking about becoming an elementary teacher. But you're scared off by talk about low salaries for teachers and other educators. Think again. Teachers enjoy one of the best perks out there: time! While teachers put in hundreds of extra hours outside the classroom, many school districts include approximately eight weeks off during the summer, not to mention holidays and other breaks during the school year.

You Need to Know: While the May 2008 BLS report showed a mean annual wage of $52,240 for elementary teachers, remember that the earnings per day worked could be higher than for other jobs at this salary level. Teaching in a public school requires a bachelor's degree in education or a bachelor's degree and completion of a teacher credential program.

Communities across the country will always have a need for salespeople, registered nurses, public relations managers, hotel managers, and teachers. Consider jobs that appeal to you most and then research your new career possibilities online.

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4 Career Success Stories That Inspire

by Amber Johnson, PayScale.com

Successful career paths have a lot in common, even in divergent industries.

The four people profiled here followed their passion, seized opportunities, and worked from the bottom up -- some without relying on a four-year degree.

What lessons do their stories hold for us in this down economy?

A Construction Career Built From the Ground Up
Say "yes" to new opportunities.

Gregory Hescock is a vice president at Boston-based Suffolk Construction, one of the country's most successful general contractors. He summed up his 22-year career with the company: "I've gone from being an assistant superintendent to a vice president, running the entire field operations of a billion-and-a-half-dollar company without any formal construction education."

In 1987, Hescock was director of buildings and grounds at The Rivers School, a private preparatory school Weston, Massachusetts. To cut costs on construction of a new building on campus, the school approached him to take on the role general contractor, avoiding the need to hire one. Hescock admits, "I'd never done anything like that." Though surprised by the offer, he recognized it as "a tremendous opportunity" and accepted.

Hescock explains, "I finished the project on time. The school was very happy and gave me a bonus." But there was a problem. He says, "They wanted me to go back to my old job."

He talked with a trustee of the school, with whom he'd worked during construction, about his desire to pursue construction. Through this connection, Hescock landed interviews with several general contractors and was soon hired by Suffolk.

"My first project was a six-building apartment complex. I was on the job 10 weeks when they fired the superintendent." Due to the strife caused by the superintendent's negative work style, "There was a revolt on the site." Hescock was asked to be the new project leader

The role of superintendent was a perfect fit. On that first job site, he realized, "I loved the job. I loved building."

Hescock's best advice for succeeding in construction has to do with people?not steel or concrete. "Take the approach that the people you work with are competent and doing their best. Give them respect. If you talk down to them, it sets the stage for failure. People can sense that."

Construction superintendent, commercial, over 20 years of experience, median annual salary: $85,385

Dedicated DJ Rises in Radio
Don't be afraid to start at the bottom.

With more than 20 years in radio, Bill DeVille has paid his dues in an elusive industry. He's now host of "Musicheads" on Minneapolis Public Radio's The Current (thecurrent.org).

After a nine-month program at Brown College's Broadcasting Program, DeVille sent out 150 resumes to radio stations -- not realizing that he knew one of the station's program directors, a former neighbor who would help him land his first job. DeVille explained, "In radio, it's not what you know, it's who you know."

"I started out at a country station in my hometown -- Sioux Falls, South Dakota." He worked four hours on Sundays. "I had no interest in it but wanted to start my career and knew I had to start from the very bottom."

Over the next decade, DeVille's career ramped up. "I'm doing a live radio show in the Twin Cities. I love it."

DeVille's main tip for those just starting out? Don't do what he did, when it comes to education. "I recommend getting a four-year degree and doing college radio." That's not the only route, however. "Or volunteer at a public radio station. With all the Internet opportunities, it's not as far-fetched as it seems."

Radio show, host, over 20 years of experience, median annual salary: $56,540

A Futuristic Career by Design
Pay attention to what you are good at.

Richard Zaragoza's first design job was worlds away from his current office at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Washington. Fourteen years ago in Rancho Cucamonga, California, he was doing holiday paintings on store windows for $70. It was humble work, but meaningful. "That [experience] gave me the confidence to get a certificate in computer graphic design."

Today, Zaragoza gets paid very well for "user experience design for software incubation." He's risen to the top despite having only attended trade school for one year. He explains, "I work with PhD's, so it can be awkward. I don't have any education listed on my Facebook page -- it's blank."

After trade school, he designed packaging for a packing factory. He never actually received a paycheck. "I took risks. I saw it as an opportunity to learn." The design work he did there, including boxes for liquor bottles and a clothing iron, formed the foundation of a portfolio that would lead to better and better jobs.

The first step toward a successful design career, Zaragoza believes, is to understand the range of options in the field. Four years ago, he didn't know that his current job even existed. As for the next step, he advises, "Find experts in the field you want to be in, and befriend them. I work with geniuses. I completely latch onto them and suck up any information they give me."

Final thoughts? "Foolish confidence is healthy. Also, failure is not the end of the road -- it's just the next step to success. Don't be afraid to screw up."

Senior graphic designer, 8-13 years experience, median annual salary: $56,832

Physician Assistant Takes Charge of His Career
Try out your new career before you pay for school.

"I'm really nobody's assistant," says Kris Johnson, a physician assistant in the emergency room at Valley Hospital and Medical Center in Spokane Valley, Washington. Johnson examines patients' histories, prescribes medications, and develops treatment plans. He points out, "My role is not too different from the physicians that I work side-by-side with."

While his salary is lower than that of an M.D., mainly due to less schooling, there are comparative advantages. "My hours are all over the place, but I don't have to be on call. I don't have anyone calling me at home from work."

In 2001, when Johnson was laid off from a machine shop just after the 9/11 attacks, a government program paid for nine months of school. Johnson chose to become a surgical technologist.

Within six months in the medical field, the role of physician assistant caught his eye. "I enjoyed medicine but hadn't thought it was something I could ever do. Medical school was out of reach."

He spent a year fulfilling academic requirements to apply to PA school and was accepted into a local program. Because he was employed as a surgical technologist in the school's hospital he attended night school for free while working fulltime.

He excelled in his studies. "It was the first time that I was in school and felt like it was something I could really do and looked forward to doing."

Johnson's advice for those pondering the physician assistant path? "If you have any desire to work in medicine, start in an ancillary position. Physician assistant programs require prior medical experience."

Johnson points out that after seeing the "not so glamorous aspects" of the field, you'll know whether it's right for you. For him, those early experiences were confirmation of his calling.

Physician assistant, 5-8 years experience, median annual salary: $88,214

Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with varied years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions or profit sharing.

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Stay Cool During the Unemployment Meltdown

5 Basic Reminders for Your Job Hunt

by Karen Noonan, TradePub.com

Layoffs have now reached the highest level on record. With the unemployment rate projected to reach 10 percent within six months, job security is waning and job availability is rapidly shrinking.

Lawrence Mishel, the president of the Economic Policy Institute, notes that for every available job, there are four people that are unemployed and looking for work. This statistic is more than double what it was in 2007, before the recession officially hit.

"This is a very rigged game of musical chairs," Mishel says, "with eight people moving around trying to find two chairs."

If you have found yourself unemployed or underemployed, you are not alone. And while there is strength in numbers, in this economy, the higher the unemployment rate, the weaker your chance of obtaining a job.

So, what can you do in order to beat the odds? Much of a job search comes down to luck and timing, but don't leave your future to chance.

Here are some tips to avoid becoming a casualty of the unemployment crisis:

1. Start your search as soon as possible.
Let your friends and family know that you are in the market for a new job. Be aggressive. Apply to every role that you are qualified for.

2. Be realistic -- you may need to take a pay cut.
"When you have a recession ... wage growth slows down because employers don't have to compete for workers," Mishel says. "Between 2007 and 2010 a typical middle class family will see at least six percent lower income."

Consider taking a role that is slightly lower on the totem pole than your previous one.

3. Stay informed.
Read local and national business newspapers, journals, and trade magazines. You can stay informed by subscribing to trade magazines and reports, many of which are free. (Find the right free publication for you here).

"Reading the trades helps me stay on top of what companies and agencies are doing," says Joe Anthony, a senior executive at a national public relations agency. "Reading trade magazines also allows me to keep up to speed on what agencies are making moves with new initiatives and new hires."

4. Believe in your value.
When you score an interview, never appear overanxious and never beg. Companies want to hire talented and confident professionals.

5. Don't forget to keep track of any job-search expenses.
Costs incurred may be tax deductible.

In addition to the staggering unemployment rate, 2.6 million people have been out of work for more than 6 months. Follow the steps above to keep yourself out of that statistic.

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Should You Look for a New Job Now?

by Caroline M.L. Potter, Yahoo! HotJobs

If you're like most workers, you're waiting anxiously for economic recovery to begin in the United States. While some economists believe it's coming, professionals are still behaving cautiously.

They have good reason: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rates were higher in July than a year earlier in all 372 metropolitan areas. You may be tempted to put off searching for a new job as a result of such news. But don't.

According to Ron Katz, president of Penguin Human Resource Consulting, LLC, "This is probably the worst job market most of us have experienced, but that creates opportunity as well."

Find out why you this could be the right time for you to find your next opportunity.

1. Job security is a thing of the past.
A lot of people are happy "just to have a job" and worry about leaving the devil they know for the devil they don't. However, says Katz, "Just because you have a job today does not mean that you won't be looking tomorrow."

The absence of job security coupled with unhappiness in your current position should spur you to explore your options sooner rather than later. "The time to shop for gas is not when you're riding on empty," he adds.

2. Passive candidates have an edge.
Even if you're not actively searching for work, you should still be open to hearing about new openings. Katz, author of the forthcoming book, "Someone's Gonna Get Hired, It Might As Well Be You," says, "Recruiters, rightfully or not, prefer the 'passive' candidates -- the ones who are currently employed -- rather than unemployed people who are very actively out there looking."

Make sure you keep a current resume and an open mind, so you're prepared for anything that comes your way.

3. It's easier to find a job when you have a job.
In fact, if you aren't employed, it is often difficult to get someone to even look at your resume. Katz explains, "The volume of resumes recruiters receive is so great that, as wrongheaded as this sounds, many will simply disqualify resumes from people who are unemployed just to make the pile of resumes they have to review more manageable."

It's an unfortunate fact, but, he says, "Employed candidates are easier to 'sell' to the hiring managers, so recruiters will look for them and pass on the rest."

4. You don't have to accept every -- or any -- offer.
You may go through the hiring process and receive an offer only to decide you don't really want the job. You can still turn it down without fear of retribution. "Recruiters do not talk to each other about candidates who turned them down. It's bad press for the company," admits Katz.

He urges workers to exercise caution before jumping ship. "Any offer should be evaluated carefully for what it offers now and in terms of career growth," he says. "If the job is not right, the job is not right. Turn it down. Trust your gut. If you take a job for which you are unsuited, you very likely will be out there looking again in a few months, and this time without the safety net of already having a job."

Get new-job alerts from Yahoo! HotJobs on Twitter by selecting to follow the appropriate account here: http://twitter.com/yahoohotjobs/following. Choose the "list" view, and select to follow accounts based on relevant metros/industries.

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The Top 5 Stay-at-Home Careers

by Shannon Dauphin,FindtheRightSchool.com

You've probably seen the ads. Certain companies will guarantee that thousands of dollars can be made by stuffing envelopes at home, or doing something equally easy. These scams are everywhere, and sometimes obscure the truth: A college degree can lead to real money made in real work-at-home jobs.

These five jobs are among the top careers for those who prefer to stay at home while working. Some of them might surprise you.

Customer Service Representative

Large companies need someone manning the phones, often around the clock, in order to handle calls from their customers. With a dedicated phone line and a reliable Internet connection, the customer service representative can work from home. Patience and great communication skills are a necessity for this position.

An associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field, such as business or communications, is increasingly preferred by employers. Career training takes place on the job, and those who do well in the position might find opportunities to advance in the company. The average annual salary for a customer service representative in 2008 was $29,860, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Travel Agent

Want to help travelers find lodging, vacation packages, and those routes off the beaten path? You can do it from the comfort of your home office when you opt to become a travel agent. Travel agents customize the traveling experience for their clients and are often the source of recommendations and referrals.

A bachelor's degree in business can give you the skills necessary to launch your home business as a travel agent. Many vocational schools offer career training specifically designed for travel agents. Strong communication skills and a familiarity with reservation systems are a must, and extensive travel experience is a plus. In 2008, travel agents made an average of $30,570, according to the BLS.

Teacher

Do you think a teacher has to go into a classroom every day? Think again. As more students opt for online education, the classroom setting has changed for tech-savvy teachers. It is now possible to teach classes online without ever setting foot on a college campus.

The degree required for teaching at the post-secondary level varies depending upon your expertise and the classes you intend to teach. A minimum of a bachelor's degree in education will open the doors to your teaching career, though advancement might require a master's degree or doctorate. The annual income of postsecondary teachers was an average of $56,120 in 2006, the last year for which numbers were available.

Web Designer

If you know your way around a computer, becoming a Web designer can allow you to work from home. Web designers are responsible for the creation and design of Web sites. They sometimes serve as Web masters as well, handling the day-to-day operations of the sites they have created.

The world of technology moves fast, and the higher your degree, the better your chances of advancement. Those with a bachelor's degree in Web design or computer science are often qualified for entry-level jobs, but relevant experience and an associate's degree in a technical field is also acceptable. The median wage for a Web designer in 2008 was $75,150, according to the BLS.

Writer

A career as a writer often allows for great flexibility, which makes it an excellent choice for working from home. Time management skills are essential, as well as the ability to see a project through from start to finish. A degree in journalism, communications, or English is a good way to start your writing career.

Many employers seek writers who can provide Web content, so taking classes in computer science is a bonus. Those with technical degrees, such as a bachelor's of engineering, are often hired as writers for technical manuals and guides. According to the latest BLS numbers, writers could expect to bring home $53,070 each year, while technical writers averaged a bit more at $61,620.

The Best Stay-at-Home Jobs

As more companies offer telecommuting as an option to their employees, more jobs once reserved for the office cubicle are making the leap to the home office. Whether you are opting for your bachelor's degree, your associate's degree, or career training through an online vocational program, a work-at-home job could be just around the corner.

Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee.

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