A Powerful Presentation Technique-Story Telling

Appealing to emotions is the most powerful way to transfer learning in an information cluttered training or presentation. A compelling story woven with a lot of information in the telling with a conclusion that appeals to the emotion can permanently etch the learning in an otherwise unresponsive training or meeting fatigued audience.
Right from childhood the best learning we have had has taken place through grandma tales, or reading stories through books or stories narrated to us in schools and by friends. We remember them better than the thousands of lectures and classes we have attended.
So what are the elements of a powerful story and how does it work.
A story is woven around a situation
You need an interesting situation where the protagonist is up against seemingly insurmountable odds. The story should leave out mundane details of what our heroes dress or the chronology and focus solely on the situation he is confronted with, which throws his life out of balance. The focus should be on the emotional elements, the struggle and stratagem to overcome the adversity and how he wins in the end. Don’t we all like the prince to fight the dragon and carry away the princess and live happily ever afterwards.
The situation need not always be good against evil or win vs. lose. They could be funny, humorous, tragic, situational, or just a corporate incident. It only needs to be infused with the right emotion.
Establish the situation quickly
If it takes ages for you to come to the point, you have lost the audience. The situation must be established in the first minute. Remember you are not writing for a magazine or a blockbuster novel. You are narrating to a live audience already on the borderlines of boredom. If you do not kindle their interest immediately you would have pushed them over the edge with negative consequences.
Bring emotion into your own presentation
The story must be narrated with all emotion and drama. If you drone on in a flat monotone howsoever powerful the story might be the impact is lost. Bring variation with voice pitch, right pauses and modulation. The right pauses should make your audience hang on to every word with anticipation and excitement.
Be creative
Telling the right story to the right audience at the right moment is the key. Don’t tell a story just for variation or a little diversion. Plan your presentation and design the story creatively to drive home the message. This perhaps is the difference between an excellent trainer and an average one. The top trainers plan their stories and weave it perfectly into the presentation. The average trainers know a lot of stories and tell one whenever he feels the audience is bored without creating the desired impact. The story becomes more of a filler than a powerful tool.
The Closing
The closing is the key to create impact. If you go into lengthy explanations about the morale the impact may be lost. Leave it with a dramatic end leaving the audience to come to their own inferences. Right from a child of a few years humankind is bestowed with a brilliant and interpretative mind and they come to the right conclusions. The best way to close is with a bit of mystery or a one line explanation leaving the lessons to sink in.
Here’s an illustrative story with most of the elements described.
The Story of the Fierce Giant once upon a time in a land far away, there lived an enormous giant. He was at least ten feet tall, with a mop of red hair and a beard, and in his hand he carried a mighty axe.
Every year on the same day, at the same time, the giant would walk down from the mountains which were his home , to stand outside the castle walls, terrorizing the inhabitants.
‘Come send me your bravest man, and I will fight him,’ the giant would shout, towering over the wall and waving his axe menacingly. ‘Send me someone to fight ,or I will knock down your castle walls and kill everyone with my axe.’
And every year, the gate in the castle wall would open slowly and fearfully, and one poor, valiant soul would walk out to Face the foe and certain death.
‘Is this the best you can do?’ the giant would laugh mockingly. The poor wretch would stand, mesmerized by the enormity of the giant and the task in hand. Not one person had even managed to draw his sword, before the giant would crush him with his mighty fist, and chop them into tiny pieces with his axe.
But then one day, a young prince arrived in the town. ‘Why does everyone here look so frightened and sad?’ he asked a fellow traveler.
‘You haven't seen the giant yet,’ replied the traveler.
‘What giant?’ asked the young prince, intrigued.
The traveler told him the tale.
‘Every year, on this very day, the giant arrives and challenges our bravest to a duel. And every year, he slays them exactly where they stand. They don’t even move or draw their swords. It’s as though the giant hypnotizes them.’
‘We’ll see about that.’ Said the young prince
When the giant arrived later that day, he was waiting for him.
‘Come send me your bravest man, and I will fight him,’ the giant shouted.
‘I am here,’ said the young prince, throwing open the gate and striding out towards him.
For a moment they stood and faced each other. Although he was still a long way from him, the young prince was instantly struck by the sheer size and shocking appearance of his opponent.
But summoning up all his courage, he started to walk towards the giant, brandishing his sword, and never taking his eyes off that dreadful face with the red hair and the red beard.
Suddenly he realized that as he was walking, the giant-rather than appearing larger – actually began to shrink before his very eyes. He stopped and stared. The giant was only five feet tall.
He walked closer to him still then stopped and stared. Now the giant was only two feet tall. He continued walking until he was face to face with the giant, and each step he took , he saw the giant shrink. By now the giant was so small, that he looked up at the young prince . He was only 12 inches tall.
The young prince took his sword, and plunged it into the giant ‘s heart.
As the giant lay dying on the ground , the young prince bent down and whispered to him, ‘who are you ?’
With his dyeing breath , the giant replied, ‘My name is Fear.’
The aim of all presentation and training is to bring about change. There is no better method of creating at least the acceptance of the idea of change than a dramatic powerful story told well.
About The Author
R.G. Srinivasan is a certified trainer and consultant in training design & methodologies. He is also the author of e-books and publishes 3 blogs. Check out his blog at http://management-thoughts.blogspot.com
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How a Motivational Humorous Speaker can help Teachers Motivate Students with Humor!

Teachers have the glorious responsibility of imparting education to students. There are fewer jobs more venerable than that of a teacher, for they are entrusted with the task of molding the lives of very young people. Ideally a good teacher has a solid command over her subject of specialization. She is also equally skillful in influencing and help shaping the personality of a student. After parents it’s the teacher that makes an immeasurable contribution in the personality development and academic achievement of the student.
A committed and astute teacher uses motivation profusely. She knows a pat on the back, a smile, and a few good words in praise of hard work done by a student can go a long way in encouraging him/her to do better. Good grades are fine motivators and the A’s help, but it’s the constant motivation of the teacher that works like magic. Though it’s the responsibility of the teachers to motivate the students to excel in studies, sports, and other constructive activities many teachers do not know the fine art of motivation. Their ignorance about the nuances of motivation makes them poor motivators. Motivational humorous speakers enter the picture here. They teach the teachers about the fine art of motivation by the use of humor.
Motivational Humorous Speakers Teach about Humor
Children are the ones that laugh easily. They are not weighed down by the cares of the world yet. Just making a funny face or mimicking an animal would set them on the course of unstoppable laughter. Motivational humorous speakers know this. They know that once a teacher can make the children laugh, she can lead them like the Pied Piper. It does take a little work on learning how to make the students laugh in a class. Motivational humorous speakers may suggest telling jokes, funny stories, and how to develop a sense of humor to win the students’ confidence. Students also may be encouraged to tell jokes and relate funny incidents to participate actively in the laughter party of the class. This type of a class atmosphere would motivate even the most disinterested student to pay attention.
Motivational humorous speakers would also teach the teachers as to where to draw the line. Because too much of anything could be bad, all jokes and no study would defeat the main purpose. So lacing their teaching time with a healthy dose of humor, teachers would give their best and can expect the same from the students as well. So if you need help in the classroom with motivation and humor, hire a motivational humorous speaker today!
Doug Dvorak is the CEO of DMG Inc., a worldwide organization that assists clients with productivity training, corporate humor and workshops, as well as other aspects of sales and marketing management. Mr. Dvorak's clients are characterized as Fortune 1000 companies, small to medium businesses, civic organizations and service businesses. Mr. Dvorak has earned an international reputation for his powerful educational methods and motivational techniques, as well as his experience in all levels of business, corporate education and success training. http://www.dougdvorak.com
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Dealing with Difficult People

1. Don't get Hooked !!!
When people behave towards you in a manner that makes you feel angry, frustrated or annoyed - this is known as a Hook.
We can even become "Hooked" by the way people look, how they talk, how they smell and even by their general demeanour.
If we take the bait then we are allowing the other person to control our behaviour. This can then result in an unproductive response.
We have a choice whether we decided to get hooked or stay unhooked.
2. Don't let them get to you.
We often allow the other persons attitude to irritate or annoy us. This becomes obvious to the other person through our tone of voice and our body language. This only fuels a difficult situation.
When dealing with difficult people, stay out of it emotionally and concentrate on listening non-defensively and actively. People may make disparaging and emotional remarks - don't rise to the bait!
3. Listen - listen - listen
Look and sound like you're listening. - When face-to-face you need to look interested, nod your head and keep good eye contact. Over the 'phone - you need to make the occasional "Uh Hu - I See"
If the other person senses that you care and that you're interested in their problem, then they're likely to become more reasonable.
4. Get all the facts - write them down.
Repeat back (paraphrase) the problem to ensure your understanding and to let the other person know that you are listening.
5. Use names
A persons name is one of the warmest sounds they hear. It says that you have recognised them as an individual. It is important not to overdo it as it may come across as patronising to the other person. Make sure they know your name and that you'll take ownership for the problem.
6. DON'T blame someone or something else.
7. Watch out for people's egos
" Don't interrupt
" Don't argue
" Don't jump in with solutions
" Allow them to let off steam
" Don't say, "Calm down".
8. See it from the other person's point of view
Too often we think the "difficult" person is making too much fuss. We think - "What's the big deal; I'll fix it right away". It is a big deal for the other person and they want you to appreciate it.
You don't necessarily need to agree with the person however you accept the fact that it's a problem for them.
9. Be very aware of your body language and tone of voice
We often exacerbate a situation without realising it. Our tone of voice and our body language can often contradict what we're saying. We may be saying sorry however our tone and our body language may be communicating our frustration and annoyance. People listen with their eyes and will set greater credence on how you say something rather than what you say.
It's also important to use a warm tone of voice when dealing with a difficult situation. This doesn't mean being "nicey- nicey" or behaving in a non-assertive manner.
10. Words to avoid
There are certain trigger words that can cause people to become more difficult especially in emotionally charged situations. These include:
"You have to" -
"But" -
"I want you to" -
"I need you to" -
"It's company policy" -
"I can't or You can't" -
"Jargon" or "Buzz" words -
"Sorry" -
"I'll try" -
11. Stop saying Sorry
Sorry is an overused word, everyone says it when something goes wrong and it has lost its value.
How often have you heard - "Sorry 'bout that, give me the details and I'll sort this out for you." Far better to say - "I apologise for …."
And if you really need to use the "sorry" word, make sure to include it as part of a full sentence. "I'm sorry you haven't received that information as promised Mr Smith." (Again, it's good practise to use the person's name).
There are other things you can say instead of sorry -
12. Empathise
The important thing to realise when dealing with a difficult person is to:
Deal with their feelings - then deal with their problem.
Using empathy is an effective way to deal with a person's feelings. Empathy isn't about agreement, only acceptance of what the person is saying and feeling. Basically the message is - "I understand how you feel."
Obviously this has to be a genuine response, the person will realise if you're insincere and they'll feel patronised.
Examples of an empathy response would be - "I can understand that you're angry," or "I see what you mean." Again, these responses need to be genuine.
13. Build Rapport
Sometimes it's useful to add another phrase to the empathy response, including yourself in the picture. - "I can understand how you feel, I don't like it either when that happens to me" This has the effect of getting on the other persons side and builds rapport.
Some people get concerned when using this response, as they believe it'll lead to "Well why don't you do something about it then." The majority of people won't respond this way if they realise that you are a reasonable and caring person. If they do, then continue empathising and tell the person what you'll do about the situation.
14. Under promise - over deliver
Whatever you say to resolve a situation, don't make a rod for your own back. We are often tempted in a difficult situation to make promises that are difficult to keep. We say things like - "I'll get this sorted this afternoon and phone you back." It may be difficult to get it sorted "this afternoon". Far better to say - "I'll get this sorted by tomorrow lunchtime." Then phone them back that afternoon or early the next morning and they'll think you're great.
You don't win them all
Remember, everyone gets a little mad from time to time, and you won't always be able to placate everyone, - there's no magic formula. However, the majority of people in this world are reasonable people and if you treat them as such, then they're more likely to respond in a positive manner.
Some more thoughts
These notes are primarily designed to help deal with difficult people when we have made a mistake. We often have to deal with other people where we have not made a mistake however the people we're dealing with often prove to be difficult and unwilling to accept what we say.
We therefore need to demonstrate assertive behaviour that helps us communicate clearly and confidently our needs, wants and feelings to other people without abusing in any way their human rights.
Some books to read
A Woman in Your Own Right - Anne Dickson
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway - Susan Jeffers
Irresistibility - Philippa Davis
Why Men don't Listen and Women Can't Read Maps - Allan & Barbara Pease
Alan Fairweather is the author of four ebooks in the "How to get More Sales" series. Lots of practical actions you can take to build your business and motivate your team.- http://www.howtogetmoresales.com
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Listening: The Foundation of Communication

Listening is the #1 communication skill for leadership, selling, customer service, and even romance! The problem is, most of us don’t listen very well. We’re not trained to listen and we don’t even realize that listening is a skill. People have lost jobs, customers, employees, and relationships because of an inability to listen. In this issue we’ll examine ways to become a better listener.Listening Means PeaceSheng jen is the Chinese word for wise person. It literally means “one who listens.”Joanna Rogers Macy, a peace activist, said listening is “the most powerful tool in peacemaking and any other kind of social change work.” I wonder what would have happened if students, teachers, and parents were really listening in Columbine? Someone, somewhere missed the distress signals that the two young killers were sending out.
Just BeWhen I was a volunteer on a suicide crisis intervention line, we were taught to take all threats of suicide seriously. How often have we told young people, “You’re too young to be depressed.” Or “You they’re just going through a phase.” Suicide is anger turned in against the self. How did we miss their anger? Why wasn’t it taken seriously? The mistake we make is to talk, advise, and debate instead of listening. We don’t have to have words of wisdom. We just have to lend an ear. Most times people can solve their own problems. They just want to be heard. Take the case of my friend. She had a problem she wanted to discuss. I listened as she thought through alternatives and discussed how she felt. She came to a decision. She thanked me for helping her to decide. I never did anything. She did it all. I just listened. Sometimes all you have to do is be. Be there. Be present for another.
Soothing the Savage BeastDid you know that talking actually reduces stress and anxiety? That’s right. Talking, confessing, getting it off your chest, will feel like a weight has been lifted. But if people are jumping in with their own opinions, the person never gets the opportunity to vent and the anxiety continues to build. Let’s consider customers. Customers may be external people who pay us, or they may be people we serve internally— co-workers and other departments.
When a customer is irate, why doesn’t the person immediately calm down when you present a solution? Because the customer is in an emotional state. Solutions or problem-solving are intellectual exercises. The person isn’t there yet. To calm the emotions, you must have a meeting of the minds. Acknowledge the feeling. “I can understand why you’re upset.” “Waiting on line for an hour must have been so frustrating.” Until you acknowledge the feeling, the conversation will go nowhere. People need to be heard. It’s a form of validation. Respecting the feeling doesn’t mean you agree with their opinion. It means you understand.
BodyTalkCommunication breaks down when people ignore what they see in favor of what they hear. The body doesn’t lie. Visual communication is more than half the message. When you hear a mixed message it’s because you are giving too much power to the spoken word. Watch the body language for the real message and tune into the tone of voice. People use words to conceal. What words conceal the body will reveal. If a customer or co-worker says, “Sure, no problem” and doesn’t make eye contact, seems distracted and curt, don’t trust the message.
Listening is SpiritualWhat are your fondest memories as a child? Is it the person who bought you expensive gifts or the person who told you stories? In our materialistic society, we think that providing for physical needs is the measure of success. We work two and three jobs to give children things “we never had.” In the frenzy, we may rob them of the riches we did have—time and attention. I’ve never heard anyone be accused of listening too much. When I was an adolescent, I could sound off on all sorts of topics to my Aunt Gloria and she would listen. We were never judged. So all the nieces and nephews confided in her. Listening is a spiritual act. You must suspend you own ego in order to really listen to another. Listening is one of the greatest gifts we can give another. It lasts a lifetime in our hearts.
Listening to OurselvesWhile we’re busy trying to listen to others, how well do we listen to ourselves? How do we really feel about that customer, accepting that new job, going out with that friend? We don’t take enough time to listen to ourselves. What is your body telling you? According to Louise Hay, author of You Can Heal Your Life, the body gives off messages. Different parts of the body signify different issues that are going on in your life.
Are you getting a lot of colds? You have too much going on. Slow down and smell the roses. Lower back pain? You may feel a lack of financial support. Money problems need to be addressed. To be a better listener of others, we need to listen to ourselves, our intuition. Meditation is a form of self-listening. Is your head cluttered with mind chatter? Is the TV going all the time? You can’t hear inner messages unless you have quiet time.
Tips for Better Listening
• Take all threats seriously. Listen when people speak about harming themselves or others.• Be present. Let people talk. Talking relieves anxiety.• Respect feelings. You may not agree but you can acknowledge their right to their feelings. Empathizing will calm an irate customer.• Believe the visual message over the words. The great lie detector is the body. Tune into the nonverbals and you will hear the real message.• Trust your intuition. Take time to meditate. One day a week, sit under a tree during lunch, or go into a room by yourself and tune into your thoughts, and body. Quiet your mind. When you get a “gut feeling” don’t dismiss it.• Listen to children. Spend time hearing their ideas, dreams, troubles, and success. They are our future. Practice shen jen. Be a wise person. Listen.
Copyright Diane DiResta 2001. All rights reserved.
Diane DiResta is President of DiResta Communicaitons, Inc. a New York-based consultancy. She is an International speaker, coach, and author of Knockout Presentations: How to Deliver Your Message with Power, Punch, and Pizzazz.(Chandler House Press) and Conversations on Success (Insight Publishing) http://www.diresta.com
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Ten Ways to Help You Improve Your Customer Service

1. Stay in contact with customers on a regular basis. Justas it is bad news to send out too many emails to customers,it is just as bad to not stay in contact with them.Customers don't want to feel abandoned. So don't.
Here are three things to help you stay in touch.
(1) Offer them your ezine subscription at least once amonth.(2) Ask customers if they want to be updated by e-mail whenyou make changes to your Web site.(3) Follow-up after each sale to see if they are satisfiedwith their purchase. Send an e-mail out a few days aftertheir purchase, another in a week or two, and then anotherin a month.
2. Create a customer focus group by inviting 10 to 20 loyalcustomers to meet regularly. Alternatively, send out amonthly survey to this group asking for ideas and input onhow to improve your customer service. Give them a reward.Pay them, give them a gift certificate, or send them freeproduct.
3. Have a web site that is easy to navigate. Add afrequently asked question's "FAQ" page and explain anythingthat might confuse your customers or visitors. Follow-upwith an electronic survey with questions on how to increaseyour site's user-friendliness.
4. Resolve customer complaints quickly and completely.Answer all e-mail and phone calls within a few hours. Thiswill show your customers you really care about them.
5. Don't make your customers or visitors hunt for yourcontact information. Make it easy for them to contact you.Offer as many contact methods as possible. Hyperlink allyour e-mail addresses so they don't have to find or type it.Offer a toll free number.
6. If you have strategic alliances or employees, make surethey are familiar with your customer service policy. Giveyour employees bonuses or incentives to practice excellentcustomer service. Tell employees to be flexible with eachindividual customer, each one has different concerns, needsand wants.
7. Give your customers more than they expect. Send thank yougifts to long time customers. E-mail them greeting cards onholidays or birthdays if you have their address or onlinecards if you only have their e-mail address and name. Givebonuses to your customers who make a big purchase ormultiple purchases.
8. U-welcome, please, and thank you and can never be overused. Be polite no matter what. Admit and apologize formistakes quickly and make it up to them in BIG ways if youwant them to continue being a customer.
9. Reward in points -- give customers a point for everydollar they spend. Set up a points-earned sheet. E-mail thecustomer an update monthly. If they send you a referral theyget 10 points, if they buy something add 10 more points.
10. If your business is local, invite customers to youroffice for lunches, parties, barbecues, dances, seminars orother special events.
It isn't what you perceive as valuable but what customerssee from their eyes. Yet, sometimes, you just can't pleasesome folks. If that occurs, do you best and then let it go.You don't want them for clients anyway.
Catherine Franz, a Certified Professional Marketing &Writing Coach, specializes in product development, Internetwriting and marketing, nonfiction, training. Newsletters and articles available at: http://www.abundancecenter.comblog: http://abundance.blogs.com

7 Best Tools for Providing First-Rate Customer Service

"People used what they called a telephone because they hated being close together and they were scared of being alone." Chuck Palahniuk could be right and wrong! In the world of e-commerce, the telephone could be the single most important tool next to your car keys. An online merchant will not exist and survive in the cutthroat world of online business without key customer service tools. First and foremost, the phone! It's true that people do not want to literally knock on the company's door to ask for technical support when they're having trouble. But they also do not want to be left hanging in the air not knowing who to contact when they need help. If you can provide this means of contact and more, your online business has crossed the line from zero profit to a treasure trove. DIAL TOLL- FREENeedless to say, if you can provide toll-free phone numbers for your customers to contact, it would be easier for them to gain confidence on you. The same goes for fax numbers which customers can use to send documents when they need to, such as checks and billing proofs. This is extremely important for you and your customers as it helps establish a quick, reliable way to communicate with the simplest tools. USING VOIP AND IMSome companies provide a way for customers to talk via voice-over internet protocol (VOIP). VOIP, for the uninitiated, connects people through the internet on a phone call basis without having to disconnect (if they are using dial-up). All they need to do is use a program similar to Skype. Most Instant Messenger programs allow VOIP calls but companies may buy an in-house program that is exclusive for their business transactions. LIVE CHAT, ANYONE?Although I would say live phone calls are more favorable than IM text messaging, live chat is also an excellent tool that helps customers easily reach you in real time. Most high risk merchant account owners such online casinos and adult websites offer live chat customer services to ensure that their clients get all the support they need. AN AUTORESPONDER, DAY IN, DAY OUTThe e-mail is another great channel for customer service. If you're a Mom 'n Pop, brick and click store and have a small clientèle, providing business e-mail address to your customers is the next best thing to a phone number. You may be out on the holidays and will be back in a few days but still want customer queries coming. The best way to deal with this is to use an Autoresponder program. The Autoresponder is programmed into your server so that every time a customer sends an e-mail, a message such as "We will get back to you shortly" will be sent to her. This way the customer knows that she is taken cared of even though technically at the moment you are out sunning and drinking papaya shake in the Bahamas! ONLINE SHOPPING CARTSPerhaps the best way to complete the set of customer tools is to employ a highly efficient, user-friendly virtual shopping cart. A shopping cart works for low risk and high risk merchant business owners alike. The purpose of the online shopping cart is obvious enough: it allows customers to browse through your online store using their registered accounts, pick the services or products that they intend to buy, add them to the cart, and check out after they fulfilled the information it requires such as billing address, shipping method preferred, credit card details, and sender/receiver details. FORUMS, PODCASTS & BLOGSA company that has grown with a considerable customer base can take advantage of establishing a forum. Customers can use it to tackle problems, build rapport, or help each other in the community. This is the best way for online merchants (who may act as moderators) to know how else they can improve their products and customer service. They may also take advantage of creating product-oriented blogs. These blogs may be customized in order to be highly readable for the clients. Merchants can make use of newsletters, webcasts and podcasts to reach their customers when they release new promos and announcements. In fact, there are a hundred and one ways to prove to your customers that they come first. Whether you are a low risk merchant affiliated to a local bank or a high risk merchant whose account is established offshore, there's no shortage to happy ways you can serve and keep your customers who are, in the end, the bread and butter of your business!
Gerri Bryce is a versatile technical writer specializing in general web content copywriting and consultancy for finance and high risk merchant account providers She has contributed a massive number of articles for today's most popular technology, gadget, gaming, business, finance, and science news websites. She participates in a number of top webmaster, finance and merchant account forums. Currently, Ms. Bryce lives in Marin County, California. She keeps herself abreast with Web 2.0 and cutting edge Internet trends by attending business workshops, online meet-ups, and conferences for merchant account professionals. She also travels extensively throughout the United States and Asia. e-mail: gerri.bryce@gmail.com
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Spotlight - The Top Ten Fastest Growing Allied Health Careers

According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the health care field is the largest industry in the United States today—employing over 13 million wage and salary workers in 2004. Of the twenty fastest growing occupations today, eight of them are in health care. It is anticipated that 20% of the new jobs created between now and 2014 will be in the health care industry—and most of these jobs require four years or less of college.
Many of these jobs will be in the area of health care referred to as Allied Health. The term Allied Health is used to identify a cluster of health professions and covers as many as 100 different jobs (but not physicians and nurses). What are the Allied Health careers anticipating the most growth? While all Allied Health careers can anticipate growth in the coming years, these ten careers are all expected to grow over 25% each year—meaning that these careers will provide the greatest long-term job security. This top ten list includes educational requirements and average salaries.
1. Medical Assistants. These Allied Health professionals perform administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, and other health practitioners running smoothly. The duties of medical assistants vary from office to office, depending on the location and size of the practice and the practitioner’s specialty. Medical assistants perform many administrative duties, including answering telephones, greeting patients, updating and filing patients’ medical records, filling out insurance forms, handling correspondence, scheduling appointments, arranging for hospital admission and laboratory services, and handling billing and bookkeeping.
As the health care industry expands because of technological advances in medicine and the growth and aging of the population, more Medical Assistants will be needed. In fact, this is anticipated to be the fastest growing career through 2014.
Education Requirements: Most Medical Assistants complete postsecondary programs that last either one year, resulting in a certificate or diploma, or two years, resulting in an associate degree.
Salary: The average salary for Medical Assistants is $24,610.
2. Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians. These Allied Health professionals assist physicians in diagnosing and treating cardiac (heart) and peripheral vascular (blood vessel) ailments. Cardiovascular technologists may specialize in any of three areas of practice: invasive cardiology, echocardiography, and vascular technology. Cardiovascular technologists specializing in invasive procedures are called cardiology technologists. Technologists prepare patients for cardiac catheterization and balloon angioplasty. During the procedures, they monitor patients’ blood pressure and heart rate with EKG equipment and notify the physician if something appears to be wrong. Technologists also may prepare and monitor patients during open-heart surgery and during the insertion of pacemakers and stents that open up blockages in arteries to the heart and major blood vessels.
Rapid employment growth is expected for Cardiovascular Technologists as the population ages, because older people have a higher incidence of heart problems and use more diagnostic imaging. Employment of vascular technologists and echocardiographers will also grow as advances in vascular technology and sonography reduce the need for more costly and invasive procedures.
Education Requirements: The majority of Cardiovascular Technologists complete a 2-year junior or community college program, but 4-year programs are increasingly available.
Salary: The average salary for Cardiovascular Technologists is $38,690.
3. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. Also known as ultrasonographers, these Allied Health professionals use special equipment to direct nonionizing, high frequency sound waves into areas of the patient’s body. Sonographers operate the equipment, which collects reflected echoes and forms an image that may be videotaped, transmitted, or photographed for interpretation and diagnosis by a physician.
As the population grows and ages, increasing the demand for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic technology means incredible growth in this field. Additionally, sonography is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to radiologic procedures, as patients seek safer treatment methods, further increase the demand for sonographers.
Education Requirements: Colleges and universities offer formal training for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers in both 2- and 4-year programs, culminating in an associate or a bachelor’s degree. Two-year programs are most prevalent.
Salary: The average salary for diagnostic medical sonographers is $52,490.
4. Physician Assistants. These Allied Health Professionals practice medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. Physicians Assistants are formally trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive health care services, as delegated by a physician. Working as members of the health care team, they take medical histories, examine and treat patients, order and interpret laboratory tests and X rays, and make diagnoses. Physicians Assistants may be the principal care providers in rural or inner city clinics, where a physician is present for only 1 or 2 days each week
Employment of Physicians Assistants is expected to grow much faster than average, ranking among the fastest growing occupations, due to anticipated expansion of the health care industry and an emphasis on cost containment, resulting in increasing utilization of Physicians Assistants.
Education Requirements: Physicians Assistants must complete accredited, formal education program and pass a National exam to obtain a license. Physician’s Assistant programs usually last at least 2 years and are full time.
Salary: The average salary for physician assistants in full-time clinical practice is $74,264.
5. Respiratory Therapists and Respiratory Therapy Technicians. These Allied Health professionals—also known as respiratory care practitioners—evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. Respiratory Therapists assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care therapeutic treatments and diagnostic procedures, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. Respiratory therapy technicians follow specific, well-defined respiratory care procedures under the direction of respiratory therapists and physicians
Job opportunities are expected to be very good, especially for respiratory therapists with cardiopulmonary care skills or experience working with infants. But all areas of Respiratory Therapy expect substantial growth due to the jump in the numbers of the middle-aged and elderly population—a development that will heighten the incidence of cardiopulmonary disease—and because of the expanding role of respiratory therapists in the early detection of pulmonary disorders, case management, disease prevention, and emergency care.
Educational Requirements: An associate’s degree is required for entry into the field. Most programs award associate’s or bachelor’s degrees and prepare graduates for jobs as advanced respiratory therapists.
Salary: The average salary for respiratory therapists is $43,140.
6. Athletic Trainers. These Allied Health professionals help prevent and treat injuries for people of all ages. Their clients include everyone from professional athletes to industrial workers. Athletic trainers are often one of the first heath care providers on the scene when injuries occur, and therefore must be able to recognize, evaluate, and assess injuries and provide immediate care when needed. They also are heavily involved in the rehabilitation and reconditioning of injuries.
Job growth for Athletic Trainers is expected to be extensive, and will be concentrated in health care industry settings, such as ambulatory heath care services and hospitals.
Educational Requirements: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required for almost all jobs as an athletic trainer.
Salary: The salary of an athletic trainer depends on experience and job responsibilities, and varies by job setting, but the average salary for athletic trainers is $33,940.
7. Surgical Technologists. These Allied Health professionals, also called scrubs and surgical or operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. Before an operation, surgical technologists help prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment, sterile drapes, and sterile solutions. They assemble both sterile and non-sterile equipment, get patients ready for surgery, and transport patients to the operating room. During surgeries, Surgical Technologists also observe patients’ vital signs, check charts, and assist the surgical team with putting on sterile gowns and gloves.
Because the number of surgical procedures is expected to rise as the population grows and ages, job prospects for Surgical Technicians are extremely good.
Educational Requirements: Surgical technologists receive their training in formal programs offered by community and junior colleges, vocational schools, universities, hospitals, and the military.
Salary: The average salary of surgical technologists is $34,010.
8. Clinical laboratory Technologists. These Allied Health professionals—also referred to as clinical laboratory scientists or medical technologists—perform most of the clinical laboratory tests that play a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Clinical laboratory personnel examine and analyze body fluids, and cells. They look for bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms; analyze the chemical content of fluids; match blood for transfusions; and test for drug levels in the blood to show how a patient is responding to treatment. Technologists also prepare specimens for examination, count cells, and look for abnormal cells in blood and body fluids.
In the coming years the number of job openings in this field is expected to continue to exceed the number of job seekers, particularly as the volume of laboratory tests continues to increase with both population growth and the development of new types of tests.
Educational Requirements: Medical and clinical laboratory technicians generally have either an associate degree from a community or junior college or a certificate from a hospital or a vocational and technical school. The usual requirement for an entry-level position as a clinical laboratory technologist is a bachelor’s degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences.
Salary: Average salary for medical and clinical laboratory technologists is $45,730.
9. Medical and Health Services Managers. Health care is a business and, like every other business, it needs good management to keep it running smoothly. These Allied Health professionals—also referred to as health care executives or health care administrators—plan, direct, coordinate, and supervise the delivery of health care. Medical and health services managers include specialists and generalists. Specialists are in charge of specific clinical departments or services, while generalists manage or help manage an entire facility or system. Increasingly, medical and health services managers will work in organizations in which they must optimize efficiency of a variety of related services—for example, those ranging from inpatient care to outpatient follow-up care.
As the health care industry continues to expand and diversify, job opportunities for Medical and Health Services Managers will be especially good in offices of health practitioners, general medical and surgical hospitals, home health care services, and outpatient care centers.
Educational Requirements: A master’s degree in health services administration or business administration is the standard credential for most positions in this field. A bachelor’s degree is adequate for some entry-level positions in smaller facilities, at the departmental level within health care organizations, and in health information management.
Salary: The average salary for medical and health services managers is $67,430, but can go as high as $117,990.
10. Dietitians and Nutritionists. These Allied Health professionals plan food and nutrition programs and supervise the preparation and serving of meals. They help to prevent and treat illnesses by promoting healthy eating habits and recommending dietary modifications. Dietitians also manage food service systems for institutions such as hospitals and schools, promote sound eating habits through education, and conduct research.
The increasing emphasis on disease prevention through improved dietary habits, along with the growing and aging population, will boost the demand for meals and nutritional counseling in hospitals, residential care facilities, schools, prisons, community health programs, and home health care agencies. Public interest in nutrition and increased emphasis on health education and prudent lifestyles also will spur demand, especially in management.
Educational Requirements: Dietitians and nutritionists need at least a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area.
Salary: The average salary for dietitians and nutritionists is $43,630.
http://www.healthdegrees.com/spotlight-the-top-ten-fastest-growing-allied-health-careers
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cecily_Kellogg

Career Networking Tips for Beginners - How to Make the Most of Your Career Networking Opportunities

Are you just out of college, or have you been working for a little while but haven't quite found your career niche yet? If so, then you're probably no stranger to the Career Fairs or other networking events that everyone always seems to be talking up. Are they worth it? Should you keep at it? What should you do at these events to help make a stronger impression? Read on for helpful advice from someone who's been there, done that...
Career Networking Tips for Beginners
1) Get clear on what you're looking for. What kind of job or opportunity do you want? Keep it short and sweet so you can communicate it easily. Practice that as your "elevator speech" for meeting new potential employers or future colleagues.
2) Tell everyone you're looking. This includes friends, family, fellow students – even professors. You never know who might know someone in the field you're interested in. Keep your resume updated and your business card handy if you have one, so that when an opportunity arises you can easily pass this information along.
3) Don't be shy - ask for the referral. People are usually happy to help - and the worst they can say is no. Remember... nothing ventured, nothing gained. Ask for that letter of recommendation or testimonial. Have a list of names handy to write in the "referrals" spot of your job applications - and be sure to keep their phone numbers and email addresses up to date and on file.
4) Follow up. If someone refers you to someone who lands you paid work, a temp gig or especially a full-time job, don't forget to thank the referrer with a hand-written note of appreciation. Keep them in mind as someone whom you may want to do something nice for in the future.
5) Most importantly, be yourself. You want a job that suits your style, personality, and unique skill set... right? The best way to find one is to just put it out there and see what comes back.
Copyright 2007 Hallie Crawford and Authentically Speaking. All rights reserved.
NOTE: Feel free to “reprint” this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the “about the author” info below).
About the Author:
Discover How to Identify Your Ideal Career and Make it Happen
Want free tips, tools and expert advice on finding a career you're passionate about? Visit certified Career Coach Hallie Crawford, and sign up for Hallie's monthly career newsletter, Creating Your Own Path, right now. Bookmark her career blog for recommendations on resume writers, online career tests and more career resources.

Online Networking Tips for Young Career Opportunists

In addition to in-person networking events, the web is the perfect place to meet professionals who are searching for your brand of talent. If you're nervous about networking, don't be. The internet is a great ice breaker and way for "shy networkers" to ease in slowly and get to know people over time. You can really make some strong professional bonds if you do it right. Here are some tips for leveraging your online networking effort:
Participate on a regular basis.
You may be young, but if you have skills then you're just as valuable as anyone else who you may meet online... and in some cases, maybe even more so. As a newbie to the professional world, you're in a great position to find a mentor who can bring you into their circle and get you some needed contacts and professional experience. So jump in, be curious, talk to people, ask questions! Log in on a regular basis and just put it out there. Offering help to others can be a big boost to your career - so share what you know.
Be open to both young and old; be willing to learn new things.
Young people tend to be more skilled in the areas of computers and technology than the older generation. Sometimes it can seem tedious to have to explain things, or maybe you feel impatient, wanting them to get to the point. Even so, your talents are well matched to someone older who knows how to play the career game. Make it a practice to be friendly toward everyone, even the old salts who seem set in their ways. You have much to learn from each other.
Use blogging to become even more immersed and connected in your field.
Blogging continues to grow in popularity... big companies have jumped on board, but even so the blogosphere is still a level playing field for young career mavericks. If you like to write, consider starting a blog as a means of making a name for yourself. Identify yourself as someone interested in and knowledgeable about your field. Or, make comments on someone else’s blog. Blogging is like passing out business cards... but instead, you're passing around ideas, inviting people to get to know you in a much more intellectually intimate way. Blogging also helps you keep learning about your field after college, and staying abreast of recent trends and developments. It will put you in touch with the important people in your field – and you never know – you may just land a job as a result!
Copyright 2007 Hallie Crawford and Authentically Speaking. All rights reserved.
NOTE: Feel free to “reprint” this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the “about the author” info below).
About the Author:
Discover How to Identify Your Ideal Career and Make it Happen
Want free tips, tools and expert advice on finding a career you're passionate about? Visit certified Career Coach Hallie Crawford, and sign up for Hallie's monthly career newsletter, Creating Your Own Path, right now. Bookmark her career blog for recommendations on resume writers, online career tests and more career resources

Advice for Young Career Seekers - How to Network With Family and Friends

Ever seriously considered talking to friends and relatives about career matters? Believe it or not, it can be one of the first big career moves you make. You'll most likely gain some great insights and maybe even an opportunity or two – try it out.
Granted, networking with your nearest and dearest may feel uncomfortable at first. But since you don't yet have a professional network, you almost have to start with people in your immediate circle. Actually, this is a great opportunity for them to start seeing you as more than just a kid out of college, but someone serious about their future goals.
You may feel a bit funny about approaching your uncle Bob in a professional and serious manner. But believe it or not, he can be one of the best people to give you the inside scoop on your chosen field... and he'll likely be flattered that you asked for his advice.
Okay, so now you're probably wondering, how do I kick this networking thing into gear? Here are few tips to ease you into the practice:
Take the first step.
If you have a former employer from a college job, then definitely contact them and make sure you get letters of recommendation. Next, start thinking of who you can approach - and ask your parents for ideas. They know more people than you think and may even have some connections in the industry you’re interested in. Family and friends are usually happy to support you so they're a safer place to get this process going.
Don't be afraid to make the cold call.
Sure you may not know your second cousin well, but people love to talk about themselves. They also usually love to help young people get a leg up. Start with an email introduction if possible, so you're not putting them on the spot on the phone. Ask them for a good time to talk... and be sure to find out how much time they can give you so you're respectful of that.
Be persistent in searching for names.
Brainstorm everyone you know. Keep your eyes and ears open for potential career networking opportunities... on email, at the next family gathering, or social event you attend and so on. If one idea doesn't pan out well or someone doesn't respond, don't take it personally. Sometimes people get caught up in the stress of everyday life, and they simply forget to get back to you. If that happens, follow up at least once to be sure you don't miss a good opportunity. If someone isn't open to talking with you, they're probably not a good fit for you anyway. Whatever you do, know that it will happen for you at the right place and time. So don't stagnate - move on and keep going.
Don’t be afraid to ask.
There's no need to be shy about asking for information or help. If the person you're planning to speak with enjoys what they do and are kind-hearted, they'll be happy to give advice and recommendations. Many jobs are landed by following up on a referral, so pursue these personal contacts with commitment. Be persistent - make it a point to chat with people about your career plans.
Prepare questions in advance.
Be curious; show genuine interest in the career paths that friends and family members have followed. If you don't understand something, know that this is okay - and that the best way to become informed is to listen, think, and ask more questions. You're not expected to know everything; after all, you're new to this game. People will understand that and be eager to share their knowledge with you.
Be clear about what you're looking for or wanting from them.
Let people know that you're seeking information or ideas - and be specific so they know what to give you. If you want to find out about a certain opportunity or maybe even land an "informational interview" with them or a fellow company member, just come right out and make this known. Sometimes it can be a challenge to get family members or friends to see you in this new and professional light. This is why you have to be even more up-front about what you'd like to happen in your career and how they might be able to help get you started toward that goal.
Leave no stone unturned.
Even if talking to a certain person seems like a stretch, try it anyway. You never know who they will know and can connect you to. If they don't know anyone, they'll tell you that, so you can move on. I suggest casting a wide net. It will help you uncover any available resource.
Holidays, family reunions and summer barbecues all present a great opportunity to connect with the older generation who just might be seasoned professionals in your field. Before your next family gathering, do your homework. Ask your parents what their brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles do for a living. Pose the same question to your best friends. When you get to the party, be prepared to ask questions of those who've "been there and done that" in your industry... and get ready to make some career connections while learning something new.
Copyright 2007 Hallie Crawford and Authentically Speaking. All rights reserved.
NOTE: Feel free to “reprint” this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the “about the author” info below).
About the Author:
Discover How to Identify Your Ideal Career and Make it Happen
Want free tips, tools and expert advice on finding a career you're passionate about? Visit certified Career Coach Hallie Crawford, and sign up for Hallie's monthly career newsletter, Creating Your Own Path, right now. Bookmark her career blog for recommendations on resume writers, online career tests and more career resources.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hallie_Crawford

Does Job Hopping Help?

To hop or not to hop, that is the question. These days people change jobs much more frequently. The belief for the employee is that if you change jobs more often, you can more rapidly increase your job responsibility, your income, and your experience. Sometimes this works. It can also be that by trying many jobs in your early years, you can find a happier situation, one that you would like to remain in for some years.
But it also happens that employers sometimes become reluctant to hire someone who has a history of short employment, and this can be a liability in job security. From the employer’s perspective, job-hopping might be a sign that the employee is difficult to work with. Short employment might be a sign that the employee finds it difficult to get along with their co-workers or that they have a bad attitude towards their superiors, customers, or their work. Perhaps they quit whenever the going gets rough. From the employer’s perspective, not only do they wish to avoid a problematic employee, but employees of under a year or two generally are not as valuable as those who know their jobs and the company well. Employers must invest some paid work hours into training or orienting new employees, therefore, workers who stay with them more years will save them time and often money as well.
So how can you tell when it’s okay, or even beneficial to hop? The ideal situation would be not only when your new employment would offer you greater advantage, but also when you can leave your former employers knowing you had already accomplished above and beyond what was usually expected for that term of employment. You want to be able to justify your worth and reliability to future employers – even with short employment – by being able to demonstrate what you did for your previous employers that made your employment well worth-while. If you wish to job hop to your advantage, then always look for what extra things you can do for your current employer, that can be put into your resume. Things such as: "increased sales 60%," "proposed and initiated a new service to the business," or, "acquired an additional $80,000 annual contract," will definitely say to future employers that you are a valuable employee.
Myspace users, click for myspace comments such as compliments, cool comments, love, flirty, birthday, holidays, religion, funny, cute, etc. You can also use myspace graphics in topics like birthday graphics, comment graphics, holidays, daily fun, love, expressions and friendship. If you are active on Orkut, use Orkut Graphics to scrap your friends.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=CD_Mohatta

What Is The Best Time For Starting To Look Vacancies In English Teaching Jobs In China?

If you intend to find English teaching jobs in China, perhaps you will need a lot of time for finding the job that will suit you and after that a lot of time for settling all needed documents for your job will be needed too.
If we take in consideration that most of the jobs that are offered in China are starting together with academicals year, your job probably will start in this period of time. You can also start your job between two semesters i.e. in the February.
But the English teaching jobs in china before applying require some preparation. Also a lot of time will be needed after accepting the job and before you go in china.
According to my estimation everybody who is looking for English teaching jobs in china should start to prepare about four or five months before they leave their country of residence. Why? Because before you are fully prepared to go in some other country you should be familiar with everything that will expect you there. You should know where you will go, where you will stay there, your salary, the reputation of your employer, etc.
Where can you find this information? The main source for this kind of information is Internet. On the internet after little searches you can find if your employer with who you are prepared to work with have good reputation. You should search if there are other English teachers previously employee there. So, if there are other teachers you are advised to contact them to share their experience with you. If they have positive memories from their work in the institution or college, that is positive signal for you. Further more you should contact with your employer directly through phone. With this direct phone call you will have important information about their attitude toward English teachers as their employees.
Finally you should contact with the organization which is some kind of intermediary between you and your employee. With this contact you will know all fees and other expenses that you should pay before leaving your country.
After acquiring all these information you will estimate if working in China is worthwhile and how much can you earn. If you think that this job will give profit to you should apply for the job. At this point begins the harder part. You should have all necessary documents for working there. Teachers who apply for English teaching jobs in china are required to have bachelor’s degree in this area. You should also obtain permission for regimenting there and work permit. This documents needed for starting English teaching job in china will cost you a lot of time and a lot of money as well. This is why all experienced teachers who have worked in China will recommend you to start the preparation for your job four or five months before the start day of the job.
An online portal to Jobs In English. Check out this website to find out more about English Teaching Jobs In China, and worldwide employer contact information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_V_Edwards

Library Interior Design Planning

Library interior design or architecture requires detailed planning before plans are drawn. Interior designers can facilitate the planning process if they are skilled in communication and knowledge of the function of a library. The needs of the library patrons must be adhered to when planning the design.
It is important for designers involved in library interior design to be aware of the ambience that the library must convey to its visitors. Many bookstores feature nice comfortable chairs and coffee service enticing visitors to stay longer. In the past, libraries were very sterile and uninviting for many people, especially the younger crowd. How does the modern library compete with the bookstore? The interior designer must use their knowledge of construction and design along with their marketing skills to design a library that can bring in all ages and compete with the modern bookstore/coffee shop.
Some areas the designer may focus on are lighting, acoustics and signage. Library interior design involves designing for different age groups, people who are there for study or research purposes and people who just want to relax with friends and read the paper. Everyone must easily access all products and services offered by the library. Work areas for staff must be ergonomic and functional. Areas for children should include hands on play areas and quiet reading areas for parents and children. The entire facility should be modern and fun. The designer will need to include areas for computer use as well.
An important aspect of library interior design involves the selection of furniture. The furniture must be durable and comfortable. If the library has a set budget, the designer will need to pay close attention to it when selecting furniture. The interior designer will need call on all their supplier contacts to source out the best possible deal for the library in order to stay under budget. There are also commercial manufacturers that design furniture specifically for libraries and other commercial buildings. Interior designers or architects can select standard furniture and then add a custom feature to it to fit the needs of the library design project. Commercial furniture is manufactured to withstand heavy use.
Another aspect of library interior design is a theft detection system must be installed in a strategic location. Staff should have the ability to easily exit from their desk if the theft alarm sounds as well. Other factors involved in the design of the library are related to the specific procedures and policies in place by the library. This is when the interior designer must use their communication skills to plan the design. It can be quite costly to correct mistakes.
Interior designers involved in a library interior design plan, should interview staff members of the library to gain insight into the needs of the staff plus the design of the staff work areas and furniture such as a staff desk. Once the designer has obtained information from the staff, they should then prepare some drawings for staff to review. If the project is quite large then perhaps a mock desk or model could be made for staff to review. Library interior design is one of the many niche areas of designers come across in their professional careers.
Thinking of a career in Interior Design? Use our site as a valuable reference point for niche interior design ideas such as Library Interior Design by T.D. Houser
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Houser