Picture this: You’ve got a great job, you’re performing well, you’re happy—but you know it’s time for a raise. The scenario is undoubtedly familiar, but the realization can often be accompanied by some significant doubt. What’s the best way to approach the subject with your employer? What should you say? What should you not say? Here’s a step-by-step guide with some helpful … [Read more...] about How to Ask for a Raise
Archives for June 2017
5 Steps for Negotiating Your Salary
One of the most difficult problems facing professionals, especially those relatively new to the working world, is pay negotiation. However, while the situation might seem intimidating, there’s no reason that it has to be. Here are a few rules of thumb to keep in mind when navigating the issue of compensation: Be Realistic The people who have the most success negotiating … [Read more...] about 5 Steps for Negotiating Your Salary
Considering an Apprenticeship
One option for career training is the apprenticeship. The concept has been around for a long time. Charles Dickens wrote his character Ebenezer Scrooge into an accounting apprenticeship in the early 1800s when on-the-job training had already become an established method of breaking into a career. That was before education beyond a few years of basics was available to most … [Read more...] about Considering an Apprenticeship
7 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling in Community College
No matter what your circumstances may be, supporting yourself and your baby is a major consideration in any plans you make. If you do not already have a job with good earning potential, preparing for one may become a priority. If time seems to be your enemy in advancing your job plans, you could consider some goals that allow for relatively quick attainment. Not all good career … [Read more...] about 7 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling in Community College
How Do I Tell My Parents I’m Pregnant?
Preparation for Delivering the News First, allow yourself to feel your own reaction to your pregnancy. It is common to have a range of emotions, and for feelings to evolve during a pregnancy. Second, think about good—not perfect—timing, like after dinner, not when your dad’s team is losing on TV, when your mom just had a super bad day at work, or they are having a … [Read more...] about How Do I Tell My Parents I’m Pregnant?
What Is Domestic Adoption?
Domestic adoption rates have increased over the last few decades. According to the National Council for Adoption, there are now over 20,000 domestic adoptions per year. While the annual number of domestic adoptions has been increasing, the annual number of international adoptions has been decreasing. Adoption is a journey for all involved in the process with the hope of the … [Read more...] about What Is Domestic Adoption?
How to Adopt Internationally
The decision to bring a child into your home through adoption is an admirable one, but unfortunately, the adoption process can be long and confusing. This is especially true when it comes to adopting from abroad. Before you jump headfirst into the international adoption/intercountry adoption process, it is useful to keep the following things in mind. Knowing the … [Read more...] about How to Adopt Internationally
How Can Tax Benefits Help When Adopting
Adoption can be an expensive option outside of the foster care system. For individuals or families who choose private adoption of a child—domestically or internationally—there are some tax benefits that can help offset expenses. The two most useful benefits are the Adoption Tax Credit and the Adoption Tax Exclusion. Tax Deductions Under the Federal Adoption Tax Credit, … [Read more...] about How Can Tax Benefits Help When Adopting
Vaccines 101
No one enjoys getting shots, but vaccines are extremely important when it comes to quality of life and disease prevention. This article is aimed to help you understand the why, how, and when of vaccines before you rush to schedule a doctor’s appointment. Why Vaccinate? The most basic reason to vaccinate your children is vaccines prevent deadly diseases, such as polio, … [Read more...] about Vaccines 101
Pursuing Jobs in the STEM Fields
As a woman or mother entering the workforce, you may desire a job that offers both a high salary and flexible hours. If that’s the case, you may consider pursuing a job in a STEM field. Not only are STEM jobs high-paying, but they are becoming more and more abundant as we live in an increasingly technological world! What Is “STEM”? STEM stands for “science, technology, … [Read more...] about Pursuing Jobs in the STEM Fields
How to Lease a Car
When it comes to obtaining a new vehicle, there are two major routes a buyer can take. Either you can buy the car—with or without a loan—or you can lease it. While lessees don’t build equity, leasing is a good option for those who want to drive new cars at a lower price. So, what does it mean to lease a car? Unlike a loan, a lease enables you to pay for the car’s … [Read more...] about How to Lease a Car
How to Create Your Own Portfolio
Portfolios are a way to help make you stand out from the crowd in an interview and in your job search. Portfolios show your potential employer a tangible track record of your accomplishments in a particular field. Having a succinct portfolio shows not only your achievements and skills but also that you are a serious candidate for a given job. Depending on the type of … [Read more...] about How to Create Your Own Portfolio
3 Simple Steps to Buy a New Car
The decision to buy a car is an important one and should not be taken lightly. In addition to the cost of the car itself, gas, maintenance, and insurance all add to the price of maintaining a vehicle. Once you have budgeted for these costs, you may begin the car-buying process. It may be useful to adhere to the following three steps to streamline the process and give you the … [Read more...] about 3 Simple Steps to Buy a New Car
What Type of Child Care Is Best for Your Family?
Most parents need at least some form of child care. Unfortunately, child care can be quite expensive. However, the good news is it doesn’t have to be! It is possible to find good child care and still stay within your budget. From school and government programs to private arrangements with other parents, there are a number of ways to find quality child care. Visit … [Read more...] about What Type of Child Care Is Best for Your Family?
What Is Telecommuting?
Many individuals will experience working in a traditional environment, whether it be a store, office, and so on, at least once in their lifetimes. Yet there is another job category, telecommuting, that often flies under the radar. Telecommuting, which most commonly refers to working from home via the phone and internet, may be a useful career alternative for any parent in need … [Read more...] about What Is Telecommuting?
Is This Job Right for Me?
Whether you are returning to the workforce after years of stay-at-home parenting or searching for a job for the very first time, the hunt for employment can be a daunting and overwhelming process. There are several factors to consider when it comes to selecting a job that satisfies your goals as both a professional and a parent. It may be helpful to ask yourself the following … [Read more...] about Is This Job Right for Me?
How to Write a Résumé
A good résumé will significantly increase your odds of obtaining your dream job. The internet is filled with resources on how to make the ultimate résumé, but this article will focus on some of the most important tips for building your résumé. Formatting is very important as most résumés are simply scanned quickly by busy hiring managers. In fact most résumés are scanned in … [Read more...] about How to Write a Résumé
What (Not) to Wear to an Interview
Getting a good job can really depend on nailing the interview, and the key to nailing the interview can often come down to how you present yourself. Dressing well for a job interview can be intimidating. But these tips can help you pick the right outfit to get the right job! Pick the Right Colors Everyone wants to stand out in a crowd, but a job interview is not the place … [Read more...] about What (Not) to Wear to an Interview
Job Search Resources and Networking 101
Finding a job can be both a time-consuming and frustrating task, but there are many resources to help make it easier. The internet will be your best friend with your search, but it will also be your enemy. There are many great resources online and now many jobs opening are also posted online, but the internet can also seem overwhelming and is full of scams. There are useful … [Read more...] about Job Search Resources and Networking 101
Interviewing for Jobs As a Parent
As a parent, re-entering the job force may seem daunting, especially if you don’t have experience balancing a family and career at the same time. Before you begin your job search, you may want to think about what requirements you want your job to possess. For example, you might decide whether working full time or part time works better with your schedule. Additionally, you may … [Read more...] about Interviewing for Jobs As a Parent
Taking Care of Yourself While Pregnant in College
While pregnant, you have a higher need for vitamins and minerals, so eating nutritious food is more important than ever. Choose foods high in nutrients, avoid added sugars and saturated fats, and consider taking prenatal vitamins and supplements. For prenatal care options, talk to your general practitioner or visit a FQHC (Federally Qualified Health Center) for more … [Read more...] about Taking Care of Yourself While Pregnant in College
What Are Your Rights with a Large Company?
In determining how any size employer accommodates families, a good place to begin is Feminists for Life’s Family-Friendly Workplace Evaluation, from “Raising Expectations in the Workplace.” This tool helps to identify what policies, resources, employer and community support, and communications strategies employees and employers can use to work together. Among the issues covered … [Read more...] about What Are Your Rights with a Large Company?
What Are Your Rights with a Medium-Sized Company?
In determining how any size employer accommodates families, a good place to begin is Feminists for Life’s Family-Friendly Workplace Evaluation, from “Raising Expectations in the Workplace.” This tool helps to identify what policies, resources, employer and community support, and communications strategies employees and employers can use to work together. Among the issues covered … [Read more...] about What Are Your Rights with a Medium-Sized Company?
What Are Your Rights with a Small Company?
In determining how any size employer accommodates families, a good place to begin is Feminists for Life’s Family-Friendly Workplace Evaluation, from “Raising Expectations in the Workplace.” This tool helps to identify what policies, resources, employer and community support, and communications strategies employees and employers can use to work together. Among the issues covered … [Read more...] about What Are Your Rights with a Small Company?
Vacationing on a Budget
Even while on a budget, traveling with your family can be very possible and fun! All that is required is a little research and planning ahead. Consider visiting a small town (as opposed to a big city) or national, state, and regional parks as affordable travel destinations. Camping can also be an inexpensive yet fun travel idea. To reduce the price of camping/hiking gear, check … [Read more...] about Vacationing on a Budget
Celebrating on a Budget
You already know when birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and other special dates are coming up, so plan and budget the celebrations in advance. Think about the important things: what are you celebrating? Where? Whom would you like to invite? What do you want to eat: snacks or a full meal? What activities or decorations will enhance the experience? Should there be gifts, and if … [Read more...] about Celebrating on a Budget
6 Budget-Friendly Ideas for Family Fun
Thought it was impossible to go out with the family without spending a fortune? Think again. Local zoos, aquariums, and museums often have hours with discounted rates or free admission. Additionally, young children can often get in for free. Memberships are a great option for families that frequent a place and often offer extra perks when it comes to parking, food, or … [Read more...] about 6 Budget-Friendly Ideas for Family Fun
How to Save Money with Hobbies
Many hobbies can actually save money while providing entertainment that can be shared with both friends and family. Cooking, needlework (knitting, cross-stitch embroidery, crocheting, sewing, etc.), carpentry and mechanics, and gardening are just a few examples of money-saving hobbies. Many of these require an investment to get started, such as ingredients for recipes, seeds … [Read more...] about How to Save Money with Hobbies
5 Tips for Planning and Budgeting for Meals
Nutrition is a hot topic that has everyone running to Pinterest and recipe books for cheap, easy, and kid-friendly recipes. Families with busy schedules often find themselves having to compromise healthy and inexpensive meals for a quick dinner so they have time to pick up a second shift at work or make those nightly basketball and soccer practices. While a quick stop at a fast … [Read more...] about 5 Tips for Planning and Budgeting for Meals
How to Care for a Child with Special Needs
Newly diagnosed? In other words, has the baby you’re carrying been diagnosed with a medical condition in-utero? So many feelings swirl in reaction to such news. So, what now? What do you do when you receive such unexpected and challenging news? First, take time to grieve your loss — because it is a loss. The loss of the dreams and expectations you had for your child is an … [Read more...] about How to Care for a Child with Special Needs