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What Can I Achieve With an IT Career?

With a worldwide financial meltdown in progress, and major league players like Yahoo! announcing that they suffered a 64% downturn in profits in the last fiscal quarter of 2008, is this really the time to think about a career move into IT?

The marketplace – is IT really that important?

Well, it’s not all bad news on the job front in the UK. Research published by the Globalisation and Economic Policy Centre at the University of Nottingham(2) has said that although one in seven private sector jobs are lost in the UK each year, more are being created in their place. The indications are that the private sector work market is extremely fluid.

Dr Peter Wright, associate professor at Nottingham University confirms this notion of a constantly evolving marketplace: “This shows how dynamic the UK employment market is. This also has important implications in terms of training provision, as many workers are likely to need to regularly change or update their skills.”

The growing and transient job market has shifted position in the UK over the past 30 years, away from manufacturing and towards IT based industries – ranging from the financial sector, multi-media applications, even the much-maligned call centre. The opportunity for careers in IT has never been broader, or more accessible.

The widespread adoption of the Internet as a tool for business has seen a surge in ‘over the ‘net’ sales. In 2005, 93% of business in the UK with ten or more employees reported that personal computers were being used in day-to-day business (2).

Amongst the largest businesses (those with 1,000 or more employees), the figure was nearly 100%. This demonstrates quite clearly how essential information and communication technology (ICT) has become to the UK and indeed the global economic model.

The same survey by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) found that in 2005 the value of sales over the Internet was £103 billion, accounting for 34% of sales across all kinds of ICT by non-financial sector businesses. If you include the financial sector into that equation, the numbers increase dramatically.

Even industries that you would not normally expect to be heavily influenced by the use of IT, such as wholesale, retail, catering and travel, reported the highest value of sales over the Internet at £49 million, representing £47 out of every £100 of goods sold.

The clear indication amongst all these statistics is that jobs in IT have never been more important to the global economy. Without a solid foundation in the application of ICT technology, a business will be hard pressed to compete on equal terms with its rivals. Which is why IT careers will continue to offer both opportunities for employment in almost any marketplace and a decent salary to boot. The stale, hackneyed vision of ‘speccy techs’ in the IT department of any company is now pass

Wedding Videography - A Career As an Event Planner

Special events often pop in and out of our everyday lives. We are so busy working that it is often difficult to plan them ourselves. The solution to this problem is an event planner. When you think of an “event”, we have a perception of something extravagant like Mardi Gras, Academy Awards and other big occasions we see on television. However, an event planner works on smaller events as well like weddings and business conferences.

An event planner’s main job is to guarantee that all details of an event are taken cared of and the program will flow as smoothly as possible. If you are planning to have a career in event planning, you must have the ability of juggling many things at once without forgetting even the smallest details. You must also be goal oriented, time conscious and patient. In this kind of business not everything will turn out the way it’s supposed to so you have to be creative enough to provide alternatives to your client.

Special events occur for different purposes. It may be celebrations like reunions and weddings. An event planner can act as a wedding planner in charge of booking the ceremony and reception locations, and hiring a good studio for the wedding videography among others. She can also be the one to facilitate educational conferences and meetings.

Event planning can also be business related. Big companies hire event planners for their promotions. Some of these companies include hotels or resorts, non profit organizations, country clubs, theme parks and convention centers. They usually hold charity events, fashion shows, product and service launching.

There are a number of good schools and online universities that offer event planner certification. A good program will usually include technical instruction on the planning process of events and the business end instruction on how to run the business. Opportunities for internships under experienced event planners may also be offered. In some event planner certification programs, students are also required to have hands on experience by planning their own event and this will eventually help them develop their portfolio for future clientele.

When starting your career as an event planner, consider first the type of event you want to pursue. If you are more into weddings like handling flower arrangements, bridesmaid dresses and wedding videography then consider tackling celebration events. If you prefer planning corporate affairs, then you may choose to plan board meetings, conventions and product launches.

Once you get a head start as an event planner, you will begin to like it and eventually love your job. You will have this drive in you to learn more about the business. And this is where passion and determination for the job sets in. Every event you attend will be a time for learning and growth. You will find yourself searching for professional improvement and striving to be better in everything you do. Once you acquire all these qualities, you are definitely on your way to becoming a successful event planner.

Get prices on wedding videography for your wedding at http://www.memoriesputtomusic.com

Wedding Videography - How to Become a Videographer

Videography is an art of capturing moments in time. Vision and inspiration are usually the foundation of a good video. A good videographer will spend many hours of documenting your special day. Then will spend another countless hours of editing your videos, from cutting out scenes to putting the right music, until everything flows smoothly.

This art requires extensive technical knowledge and high tech equipment. There are two ways to become a professional. Some people arrive at this career by regularly videotaping events for family and friends and deciding to go professional while others attend film school. There are formal schools that offer courses to teach control camera movements and correct lighting effects for various situations. A skilled cameraman will usually know how to use natural lighting effects to his advantage.

To become a videographer, you must first decide the kind of services you will offer. The choices range from wedding videography to taping corporate meetings and conferences. You can also videotape milestones like anniversaries, birthdays, memorials and reunions. Or you can also opt for theatre, dance and music performances.

The next step is to find and enroll in a film school that offers classes on the basics. Once you are equipped with the basic knowledge of technical skills and strategies, you need a lot of practice. This is the most important ingredient of achieving your goal of becoming a professional.

The next essential factor is to have the right equipment. If you do not have money to buy a good camera, just borrow one. Then practice what you’ve learned in class and shoot lots and lots of videos. The more you shoot and apply those techniques you learned in class the better you’ll get at it. Remember to analyze your videos so you will be able to know the mistakes you made and correct them.

If you are confident enough then it’s time to apply for a job. Look for local studios that are in need of a neophyte. Working for a studio like this will help you acquire the experience you need if you are ever planning to set up your own business in the future.

Once you are hired, you need all the proper equipment especially the digital camera and other camera accessories like the tripod, batteries and lighting equipment. For editing purposes, it is also essential to have a computer.

Be visible in local events. In this way, you will be able to offer your services and meet the right people for possible future engagements. Also be active in videotaping events for your family and friends. You can attract a lot of referrals from them and this will be a good way of promoting your business.

In the long run, it does not really matter if you choose to be shooting a wedding videography or a sports competition. It will be your skill, experience, style, dedication, shooting and editing techniques that will help you achieve your goal of becoming a successful videographer.

Get prices on wedding videography for your wedding at http://www.memoriesputtomusic.com

Job Hunting: 3 Tips For Successful Interviewing

It can be a nerve-wrecking prospect to think about your impending job interview. What will you say? How will you dress? What if the interviewer asks questions for which you don’t know the answers? These are all questions you may run through your mind before ever meeting the prospective employer.

But while interviews can be intimidating, they don’t have to be feared – especially if you come equipped with the right knowledge. So let’s look at three tips that can help you place the job you want in the palm of your hands.

Tip #1: Conduct Practice Q&A Sessions

Before you ever set foot on the property of your prospective employer, it is important that you mentally prepare for the challenge you’re up against. Being that you’ve never interviewed before, it may seem impossible to prepare for the unknown. But luckily for you, there are bound to be some individuals in your life who have been on job interviews. So give them a job of helping you prepare.

A good way to start your preparation is by first conducting some research on the company you are interested in working for. After you’ve learned the company’s overall mission, what they look for in employees, and most importantly, what they want in the hiring position, you can give this information to your helper. Then he or she can compose interview questions, have you show up for the mock interview in full attire, and ask the questions so that you can begin to feel comfortable with the process.

Tip #2: Dress for Success

This is probably one of the more important aspects of interviewing for any position, no matter how casual you think it might be. The prospective employer wants to confirm how serious you are about the job, something that is partially accomplished by dressing up in business attire for the interview.

While this may seem to be common sense to some, there are many newcomers to the world of interviewing who show up wearing khaki pants or low-cut tops. So if you already knew that wearing a business suit (clean with no wrinkles) is the way to go, good job. But if you were just about to walk out of the door in your T-shirt and khakis, you may want to go change your clothes.

Tip #3: Speak from the Heart

Starting off in your practice Q&A session, and eventually transitioning into your actual interview, it is important that you place personal value on your decision to apply for the job. If you go into the interview thinking that you won’t like the job, the interviewer might sense the apprehension and pass you up for the position. However, if you come in genuinely enthusiastic about the position, it will be much easier for you to find the right words to express that enthusiasm.

If you follow these three tips, you’ll be that much closer to securing the job of your dreams. So practice, practice, practice with your Q&A session, go buy a suit that makes you feel comfortable, and go to the interview with great passion. You’ll see that your budding confidence in your interviewing skills will skyrocket in time for your very first interview.

Heather Eagar is a former professional resume writer and is passionate about providing working professionals with current, reliable and effective job search tools and information. If you need a resume writer, compare the top companies in the industry at http://www.resumelines.com

So What Exactly is an ‘Assistant Engineer’?

You may have noticed that in the manning section of the Large Yacht Code (LY2) there is a new grade of engineer which was not mentioned in the old code, that of ‘Assistant Engineer’. So…….

What is an Assistant Engineer?

Why did the MCA introduce this role?

What qualification do you need to be one?

What is it?

The concept of an Assistant Engineer was not invented for the yachting industry but has been adapted from merchant navy practice. The Assistant Engineer is someone carried in the complement of a yacht who, though not certified to be responsible for the operation and maintenance of plant, has enough knowledge to be of use to the Chief Engineer in carrying out many routine operations such as changing filters, transferring liquids, doing routine maintenance tasks, starting and stopping machinery. It is also intended that if anything were to happen to the Chief Engineer then the Assistant would have enough knowledge to get the yacht safely back in to harbour.

It is important to remember this role is only intended for yachts operating with an Unmanned Machinery Space (UMS): vessels requiring traditional watchkeeping will have to carry a minimum of two STCW qualified engineers. The person holding this position does not necessarily need to be someone who actually works full time in the Engineering Department, they could be a deck hand, the mate or someone from another department. Deck candidates take note, however, that in their case the service credited will not be counted at full rate but will be split equally between deck and engineering service.

Why did the MCA introduce this role?

The MCA considered that there was a need to enhance the Engineering Department in the smaller yachts, and it was also recognised that on the larger yachts, with UMS, operating on coastal voyages the Second Engineer was not being fully employed and could be safely replaced with an Assistant Engineer.

By using an Assistant Engineer in these positions a pathway is opened to enable holders of AEC and MEOL(Y) (see below) to gain useful experience on larger yachts on their way to gaining their Y4 qualifications.

As the Assistant Engineer can be a dual role position, a by-product of this change is a reduction in the salary bill whilst maintaining an acceptable standard of engineering expertise on board. This is important particularly on smaller yachts where no increase in actual numbers is required but engineering expertise is enhanced.

What qualification do you need to be one.?

Those who have been required by an MCA inspection to get an Assistant Engineer will know that nowhere does it say exactly what qualifications are needed for this role! This is because LY2 is relatively new and MGN 156, which would normally have this information, is too old. By calling the MCA you can find out that in fact the Approved Engine Course and the MEOL (Y) are the two key requirements depending on the engine power of the yacht and where it wants to go. Obviously general service merchant navy qualifications are also accepted,

I have suggested to the MCA that they rename the Approved Engine Course the Assistant Engineer’s Course because the existing title does not describe adequately the course content which does not just concern engines. Keeping the initials the same will also save me from having to reprint our publicity! The table below gives guidance on what qualifications could be required for the Assistant Engineer under various circumstances. Always bear in mind that these tables in LY2 and in MGNs were not handed down to the Chief Examiner on marble tablets, like Moses on the mountain. Often this is misunderstood by senior crew and managers; they are GUIDANCE and can be varied, either relaxed or toughened in particular circumstances. A good example of this has already been mentioned: a yacht requiring a permanently staffed engine room would not be allowed to run with an Assistant Engineer whatever it says on tables like the one below.

The Master of a yacht, not the Chief Examiner, is responsible for the safe manning of the vessel, so if he or she is in any doubt they should ask for an opinion from the Seafarer’s Training and Certification department of the MCA.

This table is an assimilation of LY2 and the current interpretation of engineering manning rules. Remember it is only applicable to vessels where the engine room is operated on an UMS basis.

Blue Water Yachting is an exclusive yacht charter company specialising in luxury yacht charter in the South of France. Whether you are interested in a Mediterranean yacht charter, Caribbean crewed yacht charter or a South of France luxury yacht charter, we always provide a first class service.

How to Get Into Hairdressing or Barbering

For jobs in hairdressing or barbering you will need to have a unique combination of skills and will also require a great deal of training. Rewarding opportunities such as salon management positions and hairdressing jobs overseas are all achievable for ambitious hairdressers. To be a competent hairdresser you will have to possess an almost unrivalled level of ability in a vast array of skills.

Hairdressers use a range of cutting and styling techniques to enhance the personal appearance and confidence of clients. They may work in a salon catering for men, women and children. Some salons specialise in particular styles and clients. For example, African-Caribbean hairdressing techniques include pressing, braiding, plaiting and attaching hair extensions, while traditional male barber services may include trimming beards and moustaches.

Characteristics of a hairdresser

A hairdresser should have:

* excellent interpersonal skills, and be able to talk with clients in a relaxed manner

* good listening ability to interpret clients’ requests

* the ability to work quickly and accurately with their hands

* an element of creativity and artistic sense

* a caring, positive attitude

* a smart personal appearance and good personal hygiene

* good manual dexterity

* punctuality and the ability to stay calm when under pressure

* stamina, as they are on their feet for most of the day

* a willingness to learn new techniques and keep their skills up to date.

Getting into the hairdressing industry

The main routes into hairdressing are:

* applying to a salon as a trainee/junior, learning on the job and attending college on day release

* doing a full-time or part-time college course - it is important to make sure that the course leads to a recognised qualification

* via an Apprenticeship.

There are many places to find current hairdressing job opportunities including local newspapers or visiting a salon in person. More and more salons however are choosing to use online job boards. This makes registering your details with salonjobseeker.com an excellent idea for both current and future job seeking.

There are no minimum entry qualifications to begin training as a hairdresser. The right personal qualities are usually regarded as more important than academic ability.

Entrants work towards vocational qualifications, such as NVQs/SVQs in Hairdressing. Level 1 covers the basic introductory skills needed for a career as an assistant hairdresser; Level 2 includes the essential skills needed for hairdressers; and Level 3 covers more advanced hairdressing techniques and management skills.

The job description

New trainees usually spend most of their time greeting customers, washing towels and replenishing stock items, washing hair, and keeping the salon clean and tidy together with reception duties in some cases. Much of their training involves observing experienced stylists carrying out tasks such as:

* consulting and advising clients

* shampooing and conditioning hair

* trimming, cutting, layering or thinning hair

* colouring

* perming

* blow-drying and styling

* diagnosing hair and scalp problems

* putting hair up, or pinning and accessorising hair for special occasions.

As trainees gain experience, they may start to practise these techniques on mannequins and then client models.

Progressing in hairdressing

Experienced hairdressers may also decide to work towards more advanced qualifications, such as:

* City & Guilds Level 4 Higher Professional Certificate or Diploma in Technical Salon Management

* a Foundation degree in hairdressing or creative hairdressing, combined with salon management

* degrees in beauty therapy.

Hairdressers working in television and theatre normally have experience in make-up as well.

Hair fashions change quickly, with new techniques and products constantly being introduced. Hairdressers must follow trends and keep their skills fresh. Manufacturers of hair products frequently offer short courses. Larger salons may have an academy or senior stylists who travel around demonstrating cutting techniques for the latest styles.

The UK hair and beauty industry is fast becoming one of the most exciting, popular industries for young people to start a career in. This position will ensure that British hairdressing continues to be regarded amongst the best in the world.

Roger is a director of salonjobseeker.com a great hairdressing recruitment website for spa jobs, beauty jobs and jobs in hairdressing.

10 Ways to Get the Career in Hairdressing That You Want

Due to the hair and beauty industry becoming an increasingly popular career choice for many, it’s never been more important to do what you can to stand out from the crowd. Competition for jobs in hairdressing can be fierce due to the outstanding level of hairdressing talent found throughout the UK. Whether you’re looking to open your own salon or find a hairdressing job aboard a luxury cruise liner, there are many things every hairdresser can do and services that are available to help you find and secure that dream job.

1. Keep learning.

It’s crucial that you continue to learn new skills not only in preparation of future opportunities but to continue doing your current job to the best of your ability. Styles and the industry change often and its important that you remain up to speed with the latest looks and techniques. Asking colleagues can provide experience based knowledge on everything from effective techniques to customer service.

2. Invest in yourself.

Many stylists choose to attend privately run courses. Courses on a range of hairdressing topics take place at locations across the country held by some of the countries finest hairdressing bodies including L’Oreal, Schwarzkopf and many more. These offer an excellent opportunity to stay in tune with latest trends.

3. Increase your knowledge of the industry.

Having a good knowledge of the whole industry can be hugely beneficial. There is a wealth of knowledge available to hairdressers through magazines and the Internet. Another priceless opportunity is to visit a hairdressing show. Several are run each year in the UK with the most famous being Salon International. Hairdressers and salon owners from around the world can watch demonstrations from leading hairdressers, attend business related seminars and view the latest products available from leading manufacturers. Shows like this provide a massive insight into modern hairdressing from stylist jobs to salon management.

4. Lead the way.

It goes without saying that leading by example can open up many extra opportunities that you may not have expected. Relatively straightforward tasks such as the ability to guide younger stylists with any training or offering suitable suggestions to improve the salons business may lead to employers considering you for alternative roles or future openings.

5. Stand out.

Where possible, hairdressers should take opportunities to stand out and display their hairdressing talent. These opportunities include charity events, hair competitions or hairdressing shows. Not only do these events provide an excellent opportunity for recognition within hairdressing but it is also gives hairdressers the opportunity to meet peers and begin networking.

6. Alternative skills.

It’s worth thinking out of the box a little about different skills that may be a bonus to have under your belt. Hairdressing like many other industries has moved into the 21st century and knowledge of computers skills for example, has become a daily part of a stylist’s job.

7. Take advantage of Salonjobseeker.com.

There are many ways to find exciting new opportunities. Salonjobseeker.com can help make the whole process much easier. Jobseekers can view and apply for the latest hairdressing jobs and can also be alerted when relevant vacancies become available in the future. Users register details about the type of jobs they’re interested in and salon jobseeker brings the opportunities to them. The option to upload a CV also means that hairdressers can be headhunted directly by leading employers. An invaluable free job seeking service available at any stage of your career.

8. A Quality CV.

Whether you are looking to begin you hairdressing career or progress further, one of the most important factors is to get your CV and interviewing technique well prepared. The best cover letters incorporate key words and skills mentioned in the job ad. CV’s should be short and sharp. Be selective about the information you provide, only include the information most relevant for the job you are applying for.

9. Interview preparation.

Following a successful application an interview will be required and a little preparation can help make the process a little easier. Learning a little extra information about the salon before arriving is sure to win points. Remember to dress to match the role, don’t foul mouth previous employers or bring up the salary before the employer - all seemingly obvious hurdles. It’s an excellent idea to bring portfolio of images showcasing your hairdressing experience. They are a great way to demonstrate what you are capable of. Most employers ask for some sort of practical test, do what you do and do it well and don’t do anything too clever or off the wall.

10. Stay motivated.

Regardless of whether you manage to land your dream hairdressing job its important to remain motivated. With the hair and beauty industry growing so rapidly and with such quality there is no shortage of excellent opportunities throughout the UK and the opportunity to open your own salon could come sooner than you think.

Roger is a director of salonjobseeker.com a great hairdressing recruitment website for spa jobs, beauty jobs and jobs in hairdressing.

Expatriates: Commons Questions Answered

At no other time in history has there been as many expatriates (or expats for short) than today as borders between countries shrink and more and more people find they enjoy the comfort and adventure of living away from their home countries. If you are thinking of becoming one, then you should be aware of some fundamental facts.

What an Expatriate is

An expat can be defined as someone who has left his or her native country and is now living in another one. However, it also applies to those individuals that, while not permanently living in another place, spend a majority of their time there, instead of the country where they were born.

Why People Become Expats

The growing number of expats is due to the many benefits that most people feel they will gain. Among them are the following:

1. Experiencing a different culture

For many, the chance to be in another land, with a unique culture and different peoples, is the most attractive reason. Most expats travel to different countries around the world, but most prefer to stay in one particular country. Whatever the case may be, it boils down to being able to take part in a different culture and gain new perspectives.

2. Finding work

Others prefer to be expats for more practical reasons, such as finding a job. Difficult economic conditions in their native land may force people to go abroad in search of greener pastures.

3. Studying in a foreign university

For a lot of the young people today, studying in a foreign school offers plenty of advantages. Aside from being able to gain a wider range of experience, students will also be able to improve their social skills by interacting with people with differing backgrounds.

4. Less stress on the finances

Living as an expat can help an individual or family financially, especially if the cost of living in their motherland is prohibitive.

Citizenship

One of the most common questions asked is whether it is necessary for a prospective expat to relinquish his or her citizenship. The answer is no, although you may. However most are opting for dual citizenships.

Double Taxation

A majority of countries do not impose taxes on any citizen that is currently residing somewhere else. However, it is significant to note that the United States is an exception.

Depending on several factors, you might be subjected to some taxes from the Internal Revenue Service, but it will all depend on any tax treaties that the country you are currently living in has with the US. There are also tax credits that you can avail of.

To avoid complications you should consult a tax expert and check the necessary facts with the IRS as well as the local tax authorities.

Finding Work

With the growing popularity of outsourcing as a business tool, it has become easier for expats to find work in another country. Because most are skilled professionals, they are always in demand.

Even expat students nowadays, provided they are qualified, will have little difficulty finding work in the country that they are in, or even back in their homeland, if they choose to return, as some are bound to do.

Peter Garant is writing articles for an Expat Guide for a site about International Travel Tips.

How Prepared Are You For Your Interview?

Interviews can be nerve wracking and if you turn up unprepared it could cost you your dream job.

Interviews are varied and they won’t always follow a set pattern but if you consider the following points your chances of success will be improved.

Make sure you are well prepared with as much information about the role you are going for and the company as a whole. The company’s website will be a good source of information about the company as well as information about the products or services they offer.

Make sure you know how many people will be interviewing you. Also try and find out what their roles are within the company.

It may sound obvious but make sure you know exactly where it is you have to go to attend the interview. Make sure you have the correct directions as well as any information on parking or the nearest railway station. Always make sure you give yourself plenty of time to arrive. Arriving late will give a bad first impression. Arriving also gives you the opportunity to gather your thoughts and prepare yourself.

Always dress to impress, decide what you are going to wear the night before to avoid rushing around the day of your interview.

Have a copy of your CV with you and ensure you have read it through so you are able to answer any questions.

When meeting the interviewer(s) for the first time, always greet them with a smile and a strong handshake. Make sure you maintain good eye contact at all times, especially with the interviewer to whom you are responding to. Respond to the style of the interviewer, if they are formal - be formal, if they are informal - be informal.

Ask questions and show a real interest in the position and the company. Aim for questions that indicate an interest in their line of work or products and your enthusiasm and interest in the role itself, rather than holiday entitlement, pensions etc.

Make sure you are prepared for questions you think they may ask you. Try to focus on your achievements when answering and portray every response in a positive way. If you do not understand a question, don’t guess the answer - ask them to explain the question further. Although you may be nervous and want to give the impression you are knowledgeable, don’t talk too much. Give yourself time to think about your answer before you reply.

Have your own questions prepared in advance but try to ensure that you use them in the context of the interview and think about the information you have already been given by the interviewer already. This will help to show the interviewer that you are interested in the company and want to find out more about the role you are being interviewed for.

The type of questions you may want to think about:

* What career development pathway could I expect over the next few years?

* What training is available within this role?

* What is the overall culture of the company?

At the end of the interview, if the opportunity arises, ask them how they felt the interview went. Also, if you are interested in the position, it is important to tell them.

Finally, make sure you know what the follow up procedure is, and when you can expect to hear back from them. Always thank them for seeing you.

Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who represents a number of UK businesses. For information on online recruitment and job vacancy services, he recommends Matchtech, the UK’s leading Technical Recruitment Agency.

Crime Prevention Specialist: 3 Things You Must Know or Do

The war on crime is taking many avenues today. From increased police presence to community awareness programs, cities are pulling no punches when it comes to winning this war. One position that has been developed is the crime prevention specialist.

This is usually a non-sworn position for someone to work as a liaison between police and the community. Before you decide this is a career choice for you, there are some things you need to know.

Education:

It is very important that you know what the educational requirements are for the area in which you are applying. Across the nation, there are differing levels of education you must have to become a crime prevention specialist.

In one state, a two-year degree is required along with one year of relative work experience with no exceptions or substitutions. In other areas of the country for specialized fields such as youth, five years of experience in law enforcement is required. For different states, you may find any combination of the above is required.

Be sure your education and experience line up with the unit you are applying for. Also be prepared for intense background checks, drug tests or even a voice stress test that is similar to a polygraph.

Information you must know about qualifications:

Again, these qualifications may vary from place to place, here is a broad look at the programs that you will need at least some knowledge in:

1) Community crime prevention programs on both the state and federal level; DARE, Neighborhood Watch, Operation ID ( fingerprinting children), and safety and security issues as they pertain to special groups like children and the elderly.

2) General theories and practice of public relations.

3) Reading and comprehension of written reports on a level that allows you to implement actions aimed at meeting team goals.

4) Produce graphic design brochures for training programs and community awareness.

5) Great interpersonal skills that allow for good working environment as well as good community relations.

These are just a few of the skill sets you may need to develop to work as a crime prevention specialist in your area.

Job Duties:

Many job duties come along with this line of work. Below you will find sample job duties that you may encounter as a crime prevention specialist:

1) Meet with community members and or leaders to help resolve issues including neighborhood disputes and grievances. Then identify the conditions that may have caused the problems and a program to fix them.

2) Prepare and deliver training on prevention of common criminal activities such as burglary, robbery, internal theft, shoplifting, fraud, identity theft, sexual abuse and or rape as well as personal protection issues.

3) Work with business and community leaders on methods of preventing crimes including the use of security systems and alarms.

Each city may add to or take away from this job description as the needs of the community dictate. I urge you to do more research on the crime prevention specialist career. You can do this by visiting websites that cover the career in more detail.

Copywrite Kenneth Echie. Kenneth writes for Criminal Justice Degrees. Get free scholarship report and learn to become a Crime Prevention Specialist by visiting. Affiliated Website: Residual Income

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