Six Cool Part-Time Jobs That Will Pay Your Bills

Photo credit: www.dreamstime.com

These days, making money online or part-time is a striking offer. It may seem nail biting at first, but do not worry, you do not need to be a design expert nor a computer guru to earn a little extra on the side. Here are few part-time jobs that will help you pay the bills, or even cover all your expenses.

Translator

A translator converts the written word from the source language into the target language, assuring that the meaning is kept. If you’re fluent in one or more foreign languages and you can write in diverse styles, why not try this part-time job?

Tutor

Whether it's Math, English, Science, or a second language, tutors are in demand and make good money. Several tutors can charge fair hourly rates and only need a few hours a week. If you can take on multiple students, you can have yourself a fairly well-paid side-job.

Writer

To become a part-time, the only firm prerequisite is that you must be a very good writer. With that foundation, you can choose jobs that match your particular knowledge or skills and that fit into your schedule.

Babysitter

Use your experience with your siblings, nephews and nieces, or previous babysitting jobs to earn some extra cash! If you’re home pretty often and have the time to take care of a kid, find someone to pay you for it. That’s what makes this one of the best part-time careers.

Bartender or server

One of the best things about the service industry is the flexible hours, and that is what makes serving and bartending great part-time jobs. Usually, you can find a place that will let you work in the daylights or late night if you have to. With bartending, you will likely end up on evening shifts. Yet, there is great potential to make some good cash at these jobs.

Personal Trainer/Yoga Teacher

Most people exercise or work out either in the early morning, after work, or on the weekends. This allows you, as a yoga teacher or a personal trainer, to plan classes or do whatever else you need to do in your spare time.

Do you know other part-time jobs? Please share it in the comments section below.

The Top 5 In-Demand Jobs in the Philippines by 2020

Photo Credit: www.dineoncampus.com

Among countries in Southeast Asia, our country is one of the lowest in employment rates due to job mismatch. So to guide our future professionals on what career to take in college, here are the jobs that are still in-demand by 2020. 

1. Aircraft Pilot/Navigator/Flight Engineer

Air travel is expected to increase in the next decades so the airline companies are taking advantage of this surge. Part of the plan is to acquire more planes so the need for staffs also grows. It will take at least 4 years to earn a degree so it is best to take an aviation course now.

2. Computer Systems Analyst

It can’t be denied that businesses rely more on computers for a more efficient and systematic delivery of products and services. Because of this, the need for IT pros like the makers and designers of computer systems also increases. To become a systems analyst, you need to be good in logic and math and earn a degree in computer science.

3. Computer Programmer
Unlike computer systems analysts that work on both hardware and software, programmers only focus on the latter. They create games, programs, and apps that are in-demand for this generation. To be a certified code expert, you need to earn a degree in I.T.

4. Civil Engineer

When it comes to the basic needs of human like shelter, there is no shortage in job vacancies. Builders like civil engineers are hired in large-scale construction, business, or infrastructure development. To be a licensed builder, you need to take a 5-year course and pass the board exam.

5. Accountant

As long as the money is used in our daily activities, the need for accountants will always be there. To be certified, you need a degree in accountancy and pass the board exam. But even if you don’t have a license, you can still work as a bookkeeper.

Aside from these professions, posts for Business Process Outsourcing companies and skilled workers will still be in-demand by the year 2020.

Do you have more insights about this issue? Please feel free to share your thoughts on the comments section below. 

Eight Effective Ways to Fight Procrastination at Work

Photo credit: purpology.com

It’s not every day that people are always in the mood to do great things. There are just times that people feel like they don’t want to work or just get tired of doing things over and over again. These feelings often lead to procrastination.

Both neophytes and experienced workers have a tendency to procrastinate at times. This is because of many factors that trigger distraction and lack of focus.

If procrastination affects your productivity very badly, then do something to correct your habit. Do not allow less important things hamper your achievement of career growth.

What You Should Do

What specific things should you do to improve your focus toward your work? Heed the following tips:

1. Set your daily goals – Make sure that you have already prepared a to-do list right before you start your day in the workplace. If possible, you may put a checklist of your tasks for the day on your table. This way, you’ll be forced to accomplish all of your daily assignments. You may also use a planner so you won’t miss a single activity or any of your target. 

2. Come and leave on time – Always anticipate the problems that may affect your attendance. As much as possible, come early so you can still have enough time for some other things. This helps you focus more on your core tasks.

3. Practice proper prioritization – Know the deadlines of your projects so you can deliver the output on time. Also, have a good estimation of project completion. With good prioritization as your technique, you’ll be able to manage your time wisely and simplify your working pattern.

4. Know and fear the consequences of procrastination – Knowing the outcome of doing less significant things is but a helpful way to help you concentrate on your duties. Always remind yourself to fulfill your duties well so that you can reap positive results.

5. Identify your distractions and stay away from them – Know which things and activities waste your time so much. If they’re digital (social media or other web sites), then exert an effort to have them inaccessible on your end.

6. Get ready with your stuff – Even before you sit on your workstation, be sure that you have with you (placed near you) your glass of water or coffee, notebook, pen, tissue paper, and other things that you may need while working. This helps save time and minimizes distraction from other things.

7. Start with the “worst” task – Of your many activities, you may begin with the most difficult one. This will challenge yourself to work fast so that you can work on some other things.

8. Choose the right environment – Work setting plays a vital role in your productivity. Consider who you’ll be working with, as well as the presence (or more likely absence) of other objects, such as TV and radio. 

How about you? What do you do to combat the useless act of procrastination at work? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

How Can Young Professionals Maximize Their Free Time?

Photo credit: myoffice.com.ph

Young professionals have enough time for everything, something that others envy. Since they have yet to form their own family, they can grab opportunities that will broaden their horizons and allow them to grow.

In your 20s and working on weekdays, sometimes you get bored on weekends or even after your shift. You become tired of watching movies, reading books, biking, blogging, accessing Facebook and Twitter accounts, and working freelance jobs.

How do you fight boredom, then? Are there things you can do that will not cause you mental and physical stress?

Suggested Ways

Are you looking for ways to maximize your free time? Below is a list of diversions you can embark on and make yourself busy.

• Trainings – Join trainings in writing, culinary, and more.
• Short Course – You can enroll in a short course to improve your skills or learn new ones. You may explore web design or game development.
• Photography – If you want to gain or boost your skills in photography or videography, enroll online.
• Arts and Crafts Workshop – Want to learn paper crafts, embroidery, sewing, weaving, painting, or gardening? Find workshops to learn the basics and specifics.
• Financial Seminar – If your job involves complex computations, join related seminars to gain tips, learn techniques, and know current trends or concepts.

Stuff to Ponder

Consider a few factors before joining any of the mentioned activities.

• Proximity of the location – Make sure the activity occurs near your home or workplace if not online. This will save you fuel and money.
• Family – Even if you are single or living with relatives, bond or communicate with them always. This will help you keep a good relationship with them.
• Personal health – Do not sacrifice your health for better prospects. Consult a doctor often for a medical examination.
• Time management – Carry your organizer and notes to keep your appointments and put things in priority.

Use time well. Take part in worthwhile activities to sharpen your competitive edge.

World’s 10 Most Influential CEOs and Leaders

Can you not find enough reason to stir yourself while you chase your career goals or at least brighten up your day? Maybe you need stories on people who caused a positive impact on others’ lives and changed the world better.

Listed below are the most powerful modern-day business people and leaders (in any order) and their vital global contributions.

1)   Bill Gates, Co-founder and former Microsoft CEO

He formed the world’s largest computer software firm. Aside from this, he writes books and gives to many charitable activities worldwide. Microsoft products and his kind acts continue to touch and change people’s lives.

2)   Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church

Leading a religious sect with over 1.2 billion believers is a huge task. As pope, he set many firsts, but such did not go beyond Catholic teachings. He does good works that make him a good leader and a fearless reformer. He listens to people, reaches out to the faithful, befriends non-Catholics, and leads by example.

3)   Mark Zuckerberg, Co-founder and CEO of Facebook

Despite his young age, he has influenced the world so much by creating a social networking site. Despite being a college dropout, he strove hard to make his dreams come true. His impact is obvious on Facebook as netizens go abuzz on the Internet.

4)   Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway 

He is one of the richest persons on the planet. A philanthropist, too, he once pledged to give 99 percent of his wealth to philanthropic causes. As a leader, he is popular for his values and philosophy on good communication, passion, workforce and time management, planning, patience, transparency, and fairness.

5)   Steve Jobs, Co-founder and former CEO of Apple, Inc. – He was a college dropout, yet this did not hamper his skill and passion for innovation and technology. His products affected today’s way of living and remained his legacy.

Other influential leaders and entrepreneurs are:

6)   Jeff Bezos, CEO of Amazon.com

7)   Bill Clinton, Founder of The Clinton Foundation

8)   Malala Yousafzai, Advocate for education rights

9)   Barack Obama, US President

10)     Sam Walton, Former CEO of Wal-Mart

Ways to Achieve and Maintain a Work-Life Balance

Image source: theguardian.com

Proper prioritization between personal and professional lives is but a challenge for many workers, much greater for those having their own family. While some may just think that this is an elusive goal that is rarely achieved, some consider it an impossible thing to happen. What’s bad about the challenge of the so-called “work-life balance” is that workers should not give up either of them.

Sure you are working to live and not the other way around—living to work. If you’re having a hard time achieving equal time for your career and loved ones (or just yourself), heed the following tips:

1. Know your personal circumstance. Try to answer these questions. Are you a “morning person?” Are you flexible enough to work in various working conditions and schedules? Your answers to these questions will determine your flexibility, focus, commitment, and productivity.

2. Start your day right. Upon getting up from bed, do the things that put you into a good mood. Drink what you prefer: coffee, tea, juice, or just plain water. Talk with someone. Sing while taking a bath. Smile a lot. All these things will help inspire you throughout the day.

3. Say your mantra. Set your goal for the day or at least the things that you want to do and fulfill before the end of the day.

4. Manage your time wisely. Don’t waste a single minute doing nothing. As your clock alarms, open your eyes and do not go back to sleep for some more minutes. Prepare a checklist or a to-do list so that you will be guided on what to do first and what to do next. Always bring with you a handy calendar or a planner.

5. Come on time and go home on time. At the start of the day, think of what your day will be like. Anticipate some problems that may affect your schedule and do some adjustments to avoid them.

6. Befriend your officemates. Simple smile and courteous greeting will surely help you draw a friendly atmosphere inside your workplace.

7. Enjoy your work. Learn to love your profession. Develop the skills that you want to possess and learn to acquire much more to make you a versatile worker.

Here are some other tips for you to maximize your time leading you to achievement of work-life balance:

8. Do not procrastinate.
9. Follow set rules and policies.
10. Communicate with appropriate people: bosses and loved ones.
11. Get the most out of social media.
12. Learn to say “no” and state your reason(s).
13. Stay away from someone or something that can ruin your relationship with other people.
14. Seek help from others.
15. Appreciate good things around you.
16. Socialize more.
17. De-stress during day-off.

Follow these tips and do them repeatedly for you to maintain a good lifestyle that does not ask for additional hours to accomplish daily tasks. Truly, work-life balance leads to the achievement of happiness.

6 Tips on How to Be More Productive during the Rainy Season

Photo Credit: www.i100.independent.co.uk

Besides colds and flu, rainy weather also brings in the “lazy syndrome”. Most of us tend to stay under the sheets and enjoy the “bed weather” rather than go to school or work. No wonder late and absences are high during this season. So to help you fight laziness and be more productive, here are some tips:

1. Stay Healthy

Rainy season causes various diseases and you cannot concentrate on what you are doing if you are sick. So to avoid acquiring colds and flu, drink lots of water, take your vitamins, get enough sleep, and exercise whenever possible. It will not only give you energy but will also lessen your excuses for not working at your best.

2. Make a To-Do List

List your tasks for the day and make to you finish each item by the end of the day. Remove distractions and don’t let the gloomy weather affect you. Finish one task at a time and you’re done before you know it.

3. Take a Break

If you feel unproductive, instead of staring blankly on your monitor or sleeping, take a walk, socialize, or drink hot coffee or choco. Go back to work when you’re feeling energized.

4. Unwind

Unwind and relieve yourself from stress by doing what you love. Go on a date, watch movie, or go out of town with your family this weekend so when you get back to work, you’ll feel fresh and inspired.

5. Have an Energy Booster

Grab something sweet or gulp drinks with caffeine to boost your energy. A bar of chocolate, hot coffee or an energy drink will help you knock the sleepiness out of you.

6. Change Your Perspective

It’s a matter of perspective. If you let laziness kick in, then most likely you’ll spend the day looking at the clock waiting for it to hit the 5 p.m. mark. Maintain a positive attitude and make the most out of your time.

Don’t let the rain affect you and wash away your productivity! You have the control over yourself so it’s all in the mind. Enjoy the weather and make the most out your time.

Do you have other tips to fight laziness? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

How Can a LinkedIn Profile Boost Your Hiring Chances?

Photo credit: Forbes.com

Living in a digital age is but a worthwhile experience. This is where odd ideas meet reality.

If you are a job seeker, you should know how to take advantage of the modern tools to boost your chances for your target job. Apart from making a paper resume, you should also prepare a good online profile. You don’t know how far it can lead you to succeed in your job pursuit.

Now is the right time to improve your online “strength” through LinkedIn.

Why It Matters

LinkedIn is the most important networking site for professionals like you. Here are the reasons why having this social page can boost your career growth:

• It serves as your online resume. Like a paper resume, a LinkedIn profile contains sections that speak about your qualifications and strengths.
• Hiring managers use it. The recruitment process has drastically changed for it now entails browsing of LinkedIn profiles. If you have a good profile, chances are you will get shortlisted.
• Get an “unexpected” invitation for a job interview. Yes, this is possible. Even if you do not seek a job from a certain firm, hiring manager can see your professional record and might invite you to join the company.
• See yourself on Google search results. More often than not, LinkedIn pages get high ranking than other web pages (when one searches for people’s names).

Do It Right

Your LinkedIn profile is your tool to market yourself, even if you go offline. That said, it is imperative that you always keep it updated and striking.

How will you improve your LinkedIn account and the results shown by the profile strength meter? Here are some tips for you:

• Add content. Upon registration, provide all the required info. The more details you give, the higher your profile strength it can get.

• Upload a good photo. Show your professionalism. Your profile picture must be a head shot photo of (only) you wearing corporate attire. The background must be solid, light-colored.

• Cite your skills. If possible, ask former and current colleagues and bosses to recommend you for your acquired skills.

• Add connections and join groups. Joining groups in your field is a way to prove your expertise. Be an active member.

• Share relevant content. Do this on a regular basis to maintain a good profile.

• Avoid any error. Maintain an error-free career summary. Make it a habit to proofread it or ask someone to check it for possible errors.

Make a superb LinkedIn profile and you’re getting closer to job opportunities.

Ways to Break the Monotony of Your Daily Work

Photo credit: work.chron.com

Doing something repeatedly on a daily basis means two things: either it helps you perfect it or you will soon find it annoying.

If your job involves daily tasks that you’ve been doing for a couple of months or years and you’re starting to think that it no longer interests you, sure you want to do something else. And perhaps doing the same thing over and over again causes you to procrastinate, right?

If this best describes what you feel today, don’t panic. That’s normal among human beings. Monotony strikes everywhere, more often at workplaces. This feeling, which indicates a sense of boredom or stagnation, really affects worker’s productivity.

The good news is, there are effective ways to break the monotony of your daily routine and get back to it with appreciation.

What You Should Do

Here are some good things that can help you overcome the greatest threat to productivity—boredom:

1. Take some deep breaths. This is the easiest way to give yourself a short break. Inhale and exhale for a few times with your eyes closed. This may not lessen your work but at least it will help you feel good and relaxed when you get back to your task.

2. Drink water. If you’re tired of doing something, maybe you’re unconsciously feeling thirst. Drink a glass of water and you’ll surely feel energetic again.

3. Improve your sitting posture. You won’t believe it at first but the way you sit has something to do with your productivity. When you are in front of a computer screen, be sure that you sit properly. Sit up straight with your feet stepping flat on the floor. Further, consider some parts of your body (e.g., upper and lower back, wrist, neck, fingers, and eyes) and some other things (e.g., position, height, and tilt of keyboard, armrest, wrist rest, and copy stand) to find a good posture.

4. Get a stress ball and squeeze it. This is one good way to release whatever bad feeling you have toward your task. Also, it relaxes your fingers and palm.

5. Look at photos or quotes that inspire you. These things can ignite your interest to pursue the activity that you have started doing.

6. Stand up and do some stretching. This will help you release some muscle tensions.

7. Set your goals. Make a checklist of activities that you should do with your priorities at the top of the list. Think about deadlines to challenge yourself.

Don’t do things that could distract and drain you. Devote your time with some meaningful activities that will help you achieve career growth.