How To Ordering by User Defined Fields on List Panels (UDF Data Types)

How To Ordering by User Defined Fields on List Panels (UDF Data Types) A few months ago we bit off a project that we had been putting off for years because it was enormous.   Well, we thought it was enourmous. When we rolled it out the first time we found out just how enormous it really was. And then we had to push it out the second and the third time ouch.   Many thanks to all of the JibberJobber users who stuck with us during this painful project. This will go down in history as one of the biggest and most painful projects we have ever tackled. Did I mention, THANK YOU to those who stuck with us and helped us through this? Alas, a few weeks we finished, and we think we are done now. This project started small I just want to order by my custom fields on List Panels. Turns out, this project would touch (in a big way) our database, every Detail Page, every Add/Edit page for Contacts, Companies, Jobs, of course every List Panel, etc. And, as icing on the cake, we would run user data through a conversion to make the types work right. Lots of landmines in this little project. And we stepped on a few.   But no data was lost, and we had some exceptional (and exceptionally patient) users help us through. What this means is two things: When you create a custom field you can now assign the type (like: integer, text, etc.) Because of this, you can now order by on the List Panels. Seems simple, right? It would have been if we architected it this way a decade ago. To do #1, simply go to the Add/Edit page of any Contact, Company, or Job, and add a new custom field (down at the very bottom) (you can also do this from a Detail Page, under the Add button on the right): From the Add/Edit Page: From the Detail Page: When you select NEW, youll be asked for a name of the field (not the value of data name of a field is best friends name, the value would be Sally), and the data type (which helps us order it appropriately): If in doubt just leave it as a String that just means regular text. But if it is a number use Integer (or one of the other options). Id use String and Integer for probably 95% of my custom fields. Thats about it the rest is not that visible, except the beautiful ability to simply order by a custom field in the List Panel simple enough, right? How To Ordering by User Defined Fields on List Panels (UDF Data Types) A few months ago we bit off a project that we had been putting off for years because it was enormous.   Well, we thought it was enourmous. When we rolled it out the first time we found out just how enormous it really was. And then we had to push it out the second and the third time ouch.   Many thanks to all of the JibberJobber users who stuck with us during this painful project. This will go down in history as one of the biggest and most painful projects we have ever tackled. Did I mention, THANK YOU to those who stuck with us and helped us through this? Alas, a few weeks we finished, and we think we are done now. This project started small I just want to order by my custom fields on List Panels. Turns out, this project would touch (in a big way) our database, every Detail Page, every Add/Edit page for Contacts, Companies, Jobs, of course every List Panel, etc. And, as icing on the cake, we would run user data through a conversion to make the types work right. Lots of landmines in this little project. And we stepped on a few.   But no data was lost, and we had some exceptional (and exceptionally patient) users help us through. What this means is two things: When you create a custom field you can now assign the type (like: integer, text, etc.) Because of this, you can now order by on the List Panels. Seems simple, right? It would have been if we architected it this way a decade ago. To do #1, simply go to the Add/Edit page of any Contact, Company, or Job, and add a new custom field (down at the very bottom) (you can also do this from a Detail Page, under the Add button on the right): From the Add/Edit Page: From the Detail Page: When you select NEW, youll be asked for a name of the field (not the value of data name of a field is best friends name, the value would be Sally), and the data type (which helps us order it appropriately): If in doubt just leave it as a String that just means regular text. But if it is a number use Integer (or one of the other options). Id use String and Integer for probably 95% of my custom fields. Thats about it the rest is not that visible, except the beautiful ability to simply order by a custom field in the List Panel simple enough, right?

What is your greatest achievement How to ace your answer

What is your greatest achievement How to ace your answer It’s THAT time of year again. Graduate schemes are opening for application. The canniest candidates are beginning to put together application forms. Over the next few weeks we’ll be looking at some of the questions you might expect to have to answer and giving some clues on how you might go about it. So how do you deal with “What was your greatest achievement” without underselling yourself on the one side or sounding conceited on the other? Ask yourself why the employer has asked the question. This is always a great starting point and you’d be surprised at the number of candidates who never seem to stop to think about this. This question is there because the employer want to know something about you! They’re not going to score the answer on the basis of who has the most exciting story to tell about personal achievement, or on the basis of who has overcome the most difficult barriers to advancement. They want to see you write lucidly and succinctly about something of importance to you. The answer can be equally impressive if it turns on how you have worked alongside study to make ends meet, or if you talk about your gap year experience persuading reluctant parents in Africa to allow their children to be inoculated against Polio. So how do you start the answer? Start very simply “I think my greatest achievement / I am proud of “and then set out what you did. Use the STAR framework (situation, task, action, result). Describe the circumstances fairly briefly and then focus most of your answer on the action you took. Finish by reviewing the result. Make sure that you write clearly and without hyperbole. You should comment on the result by underlining the relevant skills you think you learnt from this experience, What employability skills can you draw out from the experience? It’s always good to be thinking about what an employer is looking for. Reflect on the skills you gained in the final part of the answer. If your achievement was to work alongside study, then you’ll have demonstrated a great work ethic, resilience and time management skills. Set that out. If you have contributed to society in some way and you want a post in the Third (or charity) Sector, then you’ll want to point out how your efforts have impacted individuals. If, however, following that amazing voluntary work you want to work in a profit making organisation in the City, you might want to focus more on some of the skills you learnt. Communication? Teamwork? Persuasion and negotiation? It’s probably not a good idea to tell an investment bank that following your amazing experience working with the dispossessed, you have decided to work for the bank  because you like  its corporate, social responsibility policy. Remember that the bank is “about” making money. Their staff need to buy into that idea. If they think that you just want to “help” they’re going to wonder if you will be right for them. And some general points? 1. Be guided by the word limit. You don’t have to stick to this slavishly using up every last word, but if the limit is 500 then you can be sure that one sentence is not going to be adequate. 2. Don’t start writing about the employer in the answer. This would not be good. “My achievement in winning the long jump means that I am aligned with your company because you always try to leap ahead of your competitors”. The example might look ridiculous but I see many draft answers which are just like this. This question is not asking you to talk about the employer or to show that you have done your research. It is asking about you! 3. Don’t belittle your own achievements and think you have nothing to write about. The employer isn’t looking for the marathon running, country representing, top flight musician who has received an Oscar for acting and single handedly solved the Greek debt crisis! Instead it is looking for the person who can write well and demonstrate that he/she has done something other than just study! It is also looking to you to be able to recognise and talk about the skills you learnt. 4.   Don’t go with the “getting a 2.1 at university” (unless you had to overcome some very particular personal odds to achieve this). You don’t want to give the employer the impression that you had to struggle very hard to reach, what for it, might be a base line achievement. 5.   Enjoy the opportunity to write about yourself and reflect on and feel proud of what you have achieved. Just don’t keep labouring the point in your answer! Self-effacing is a more attractive personality trait than conceit. You don’t need to keep referring back to your pride in the written answer.

Mobile Blogging Tips, Tricks and Making it Easy For Your Career

Mobile Blogging Tips, Tricks and Making it Easy For Your Career Whether you already run a blog or youre trying to start one, there are a lot of tips and tricks out there to help you get up and running. However, what most people wont tell you is how awesome it is, being able to run your blog from your mobile device. There are so many great reasons, and little hints you should keep in mind along the way. Anywhere You Want to Go Lets be honest here. One of the most frustrating and difficult things about having a blog is keeping up on it. You have a life, and youre not always sitting in front of the computer. When youre on the go, it is difficult to keep up on your blogging properly. However, when you blog from your smartphones such as the new HTC One phone, it doesnt matter where you are.. You can instantly and easily put up a post. Whether youre traveling with the family or lying in bed, blogging from your phone makes it much easier to keep updated. Use an App Make sure that you remember that you dont have to blog straight to the site you use. This can get difficult and frustrating. Luckily, most of the big blogging platforms today have apps that make it much easier. WordPress has both an iOS and Android app that makes pushing your posts or writing a draft simple. Do you blog on Blogger? Youre still in luck. Even if your blog program doesnt have an app, you can use a writing app to keep your thoughts fresh and your wit sharp. Upload Pictures Instantly Image via Flickr by  Janitors You know that your blog posts do better when they have an image or two, right? Make sure that you take pictures while youre on your trip to illustrate how much fun youre having. One of the best parts about blogging from your mobile device is that you can use those images, and you dont have to go through a hundred complicated steps. You can upload the images straight to your blogging platform or to your favorite image host such as Flickr. Get Accessories You may have found that one of the most difficult parts of blogging from your phone is that you can create your posts much quicker when you can type on a keyboard. This isnt true for everyone. However, for those that prefer keyboard typing, you can get keyboards that will interface with your mobile device. These allow you to type just as fast as normal. Whether they connect directly to the phone or use Bluetooth, these little accessories are extremely useful. Usually they are small and portable, just like your phone. Perfect Formatting Not all blogging platforms are created equal. And when it comes to mobile blogging, this is particularly true. Make sure that you get the formatting right. Otherwise, your posts will look weird when you post from your device. Start off with posting from your device somewhere you can check your post. This allows you to make sure the first few times that things are looking good. You may need to do some editing in the HTML editor to get it exactly how you want it, but that is sometimes the case in desktop publishing, as well. Keep Ideas at Hand One of the hardest things about mobile blogging is that you get an idea and then it slips away. Make sure to keep track of your ideas, which ones you want to expand on, and which ones to throw away. This allows you to get the most out of your mobile blogging experience. There are several apps that allow you to post your ideas. You can even do this in your blogging platform, as a draft. Another option is to email the idea to yourself. Using a task-based app allows you to track what youve done and what still needs work. When youre working on a blog, its never a good idea to let it sit too long. Make sure to update on your normal schedule, even when youre on vacation. Posting from  your phone allows you to do this easily.

Social Networking Is Often Not Understood - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

Social Networking Is Often Not Understood - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career Disclaimer: Social networking is not a substitute for attending social events, talking with others on the phone, or having lunch with someone. To me there is no question of the growing importance of social networking for people in transition who are looking for their next career stop. However, for many middle-aged people, social networking may be something new and not something they’re right now ready to jump into with both feet in their current predicament. And that’s a shame, because employers and recruiters use it as a selection and validation tool for their prospects. So, let’s review some of the advantages job seekers can gain by using the phenomenon of social media. It is a screening tool. You can learn about others before you decide to invest your time and energy in the development of a relationship. You can find out if the other person is compatible with you or has the right connections, experience, and knowledge in your industry. Using social media is less frightening. Some people have problems in cold calling someone and asking for a favor, especially when unemployed. Initiating a dialogue with someone you’ve lost contact with for years can be intimidating, but taking that first step via social media makes the reconnection more palatable. It is efficient and convenient. You can conduct a large number of dialogues with many people from your kitchen table without having to waste time driving somewhere. You can network 24 hours a day worldwide, because the Internet never closes and because your online profile can be viewed by anyone anywhere in the world. It is a great opportunity to exhibit your skills and talent. Using social media shows potential employers that you are up to speed and up-to-date and know how to use social media effectively. That serves to differentiate you from others. It is a tool for setting up an in-person meeting. Many people connect initially via the Internet, and once both parties are ready, they meet in person. It shows off your brand. Again, this is another differentiator that highlights your selling points, expertise, and talents. It provides a vehicle whereby to participate even if you have physical challenges such as mobility issues or you are not local. Learning about social media is a challenge by itself, and the navigation changes frequently. Those in transition who are not ready to meet the challenge by learning how to use social media and then updating themselves on the changing features put themselves at great disadvantage.

Using Resume Writing Software For a Business

Using Resume Writing Software For a BusinessYour resume is the first thing that your potential employer will see when they are reviewing you for employment. As a result, it is imperative that you write a resume that showcases your best attributes and that is relevant to the position for which you are applying. Therefore, if you choose not to utilize a resume writing software for a business, you will lose an opportunity to communicate your best qualities to a potential employer.For example, a new employee who is applying for a position in a business IT support department would be well served to include a section on his or her resume that contains such pertinent information as their name, contact information, and education background. This information can be written in a way that presents the applicant as a team player with the potential to contribute to the success of the business and the organization as a whole. On the other hand, the same applicant could be described in a section th at emphasizes the applicant's technical knowledge of computer software. As you can see, the options are quite wide-ranging.A business owner that is creating a website for their business may wish to use the software to gather feedback from their employees regarding the websites they have designed and to create a website that reflects their company as a whole. It is important to be consistent and concise with all aspects of your resume and by using a resume writing software for a business, you can review previous job positions and read feedback on them so that you can incorporate these skills into your current resume. Even if you are not currently employed, you can still use resume writing software for a business to keep a record of the skills you possess in order to further improve your chances of employment.In addition to updating your resume, skills are also important to consider. What are your strengths and weaknesses? Are you detail oriented, organized, and confident, or are you temperamental, impulsive, and lacking in self-confidence?Thetime required to apply for a job can be very time consuming, especially if you are a business owner and you are applying for a position in which you will be working full-time. Therefore, you may wish to consider outsourcing resume writing services in order to minimize the time and effort you will spend in compiling your resume.You can search for a good online resume writer that can offer resume writing services by doing a search on Google. You will be able to find a number of companies that offer their services, but you may want to focus on companies that offer affordable rates, high quality resumes, and services that are customized for your business. Using a professional resume writing service will ensure that your resume is created by a trained professional and that it has been thoroughly reviewed for accuracy.Resume writing software for a business can help a business owner to develop a professionally designed resume that is relevant to the position they are applying for and that contains all of the information that will be relevant to their future employer. Therefore, in addition to the ability to customize your resume for a position, you will also be provided with suggestions on how to add your professional skills and experience to your resume in order to impress your potential employer.Resume writing software for a business offers several advantages. If you are a business owner and have experienced difficulty creating your own resume, consider utilizing the expertise of professionals who can create professionally-written resumes that showcase your best attributes and interests. You will save time and effort, and your resume will be prepared by a professional that has the necessary skills and training to create the best resume possible.

4 Tips on How to Ask For a Raise in a Recession

4 Tips on How to Ask For a Raise in a Recession 0 Flares 0 Flares Asking for a raise in normal economic conditions can be a bit hairy, but doing so in our current economic state just stinks.  During tough times, some believe its career suicide to have a discussion about salary with a supervisor.  That may be the case, but if you truly are underpaid, as well as a top performer in the company, then you certainly need to give it a shot.  So, how do you do it? 4 Tips on how to ask for a raise in a recession: Know your company If your organization is struggling to stay in business, or is filing for bankruptcy, now isnt the time.  Print this article out, bookmark Corn on the Job, or subscribe to my RSS feed and just come back to me later.  Those working in a financially stable, or somewhat financially stable company should begin to research their company financials, goals, and any challenges the organization faces in dealing with the economy.  During a recession its not uncommon for companies to put a temporary halt to raises and promotions.  Take this into consideration when debating on asking for a raise.  If you truly feel you are a top performer, than you still have a shot. Know your market value Check a few online salary calculators.  Click here to see a few.  Make friends with some HR folk and see if they can share some salary data with you.  HR at your company wont share that information with you, so hop on  LinkedIn, and see if you can connect with a compensation specialist. Know your accomplishments What have you done well?  Write it all down.  Positive experiences with customers (internal and external), projects youve lead, money that youve saved the company.  If you can show any form of Return on Investment (ROI) in projects, than you are golden.  Showing your supervisor where youve saved money is always your best bet, especially in a poor economy. Set up a Plan B OK, so you prepared yourself well, but it looks like you need a Plan B.  Maybe the company just doesnt have the money, or it could be that you havent showed your supervisor that youre the cats pajamas.  You need to be prepared for to hear, No.  Set up a meeting in 6 months, and set up goals and expectations with your supervisor.  Find out what needs to be done in order to warrant a raise.  Focus the next 6 months  (or whatever time frame is decided) of your life on completing the goals and objectives set by your manager/supervisor.  When time passes by and you meet with your supervisor again youll be able to show youve completed each objective.  If you dont receive your raise at that point, then maybe its time to start looking elsewhere.

Agonizing over whether to leave your current job

Agonizing over whether to leave your current job Agonizing over whether to leave your current job? Agonizing over whether to leave your current job? September 26, 2012 by Career Coach Sherri Thomas Leave a Comment Being in a passion-less job is a career killer.   Managers, clients, peers, and potential employers will see you as someone who lacks desire, drive, and enthusiasm. If you’re craving a career that inspires you, then you need to step up and take action.   As a leading Career Coach, I encourage you to ask yourself three (3) questions to help you decide whether you should leave your current job… What do I really want in my career? What is it that will give you the feeling of being happy and fulfilled in your job? Is it status? Prestige? Fame? Respect from your peers? Credibility within the industry? Money? Less stress? An easier lifestyle? Stop a minute and think about it. You need to define the specific things or “gets” that you want to ultimately achieve in your career. You should be able to narrow it down to one or two very specific objectives. Once you are able to identify your ultimate career objectives, then the next thing you need to do is take stock of your current career and where you are today. What are the “gives and gets” in my current situation? This means taking a quick inventory of what you are currently giving to your manager, company or clients, and what you are getting in return. Let’s first look at the “gives” of your job. Write down the value that you are providing to your employer by being in your current job role. For example, do you have knowledge, experience and skills that are valued by your manager or clients? Are you an expert in your job and providing work that is valued? Are you consistently delivering high quality projects that are on time and on budget? Are your clients thrilled with your work? Does your manager think of you as a valued contributor? Do you have the most relevant training and certification to do the job effectively? Are you adding to the bottom line by bringing in new business and maximizing opportunities, or saving costs by streamlining processes or bringing in advanced technologies? Are you leading projects and initiatives? Are you training and mentoring team members and peers? Are you providing some kind of unique expertise and viewed as the “go to” person for that knowledge or skill? I encourage my career coaching clients to also identify another kind of “get.” Those are the negative “gets” in your current position. Every job has a certain amount of frustration and stress, but does your job give you an excessive amount? Does it make you feel inferior? Incompetent? Overwhelmed? Undervalued? Underutilized? These negative “gets” should also be identified. Think about any negative gets that you have in your current situation and write them down. Now it’s time to review all of your “gives”, “positive gets” and “negative gets”. Are the gets that you are receiving the gets that you really need to feel valued and inspired? If not, then you may want to consider making a career change. Before I leave, is there anything else I can glean from my current situation? There are times in everyone’s career when you hit a roadblock, and it’s best to simply move on. But before you disconnect completely from your situation, I encourage you to glean anything else you can from your current employer or client. Are there any projects you could join or lead that would allow you to gain knowledge or experience in a new area? Could you strengthen your leadership skills or boost your credibility by leading a project? Is there a project you could create that would challenge you and help you grow professionally? Also, is there anyone in your current environment who could guide you, mentor you, or teach you about a product, technology, or the industry? Is there anyone else you could work with who could give your career a boost just by saying that you worked together? â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"â€"- Sherri Thomas is a Career Strategist, international speaker and best-selling author of two books including “Career Smart â€" 5 Steps to a Powerful Personal Brand” which is currently on AMAZON’s TOP 10 LIST for personal branding books, and “The Bounce Back â€" personal stories of bouncing back higher and faster from a layoff, re-org or career setback“ also available on AMAZON and BARNES NOBLE.      For a limited time, grab (3) THREE FREE CHAPTERS of “The Bounce Back” at http://www.MyBounceBack.com