Max Messmer Quotations | Page 2

Education doesn't end with graduation. The first position out of college should provide learning opportunities that will serve as building blocks for future career success.

Turnover is costly for employers, so they seek candidates with a history of job stability.

Thoughtful post-resume communication underscores the traits that companies are looking for. Being able to convey what they could bring to the position can give certain job seekers a significant advantage over less-proactive candidates.

A good manager identifies ways to mitigate routine problems and respond quickly to unexpected ones, freeing up more time for bigger-picture issues.

Companies in the Pacific region, especially those in the real estate and construction industries, are adding staff to support growth initiatives. As the competition for candidates intensifies, many firms are experiencing a shortage of skilled accounting professionals and, as a result, find they must offer higher salaries and better benefits to secure the best people.

Companies in the Mountain region are hiring experienced accountants to assist with growth initiatives. There are skills shortages within some in-demand specialties. To ensure they secure commitments from top financial professionals, many employers are accelerating the recruiting process and offering more competitive salary and benefits packages.

Is the situation really a crisis? Do not treat every bump in the road as a disaster,

Job seekers should take a moment to compose their thoughts before they speak and focus their comments on the specific knowledge and experience they can bring to the position. Interviews provide an opportunity for employers to become more acquainted with applicants. Hiring managers are looking for candor, professionalism and a glimpse into the candidate's personality.

Many of the companies that are hiring are doing so to accommodate business expansion activities during 2006. Firms also are adding full-time staff and working with consulting professionals for corporate governance-related compliance and remediation initiatives.

Many companies may be hesitant to increase employee compensation because of other expenses impacting the business, such as rising health-care and energy costs. But an overly cautious approach can be detrimental, particularly as the competition for top candidates intensifies.