Published on: 19 September 2018
Last Updated on: 13 March 2019
With your bachelor’s degree in the bag, you will be faced with yet another big life decision: should you pursue a Masters full-time program or head into the labor market? There are many different reasons why individuals choose to study for a Masters. For the most part, though, the hope is that it improves your career prospects, and ultimately your wage premium.
Whatever your motivations may be, you might be torn at the prospect of halting your career hunt to pursue yet another degree. While there are certainly more than a few considerations that should go into this decision, we’ve provided some of the advantages of deciding in its favor.
Employability:
One of the most important reasons why you might choose to consider studying a full-time Masters is to improve your employability. If you are gunning for an academic role, a Masters degree is an important next step. A Masters is also an important step if you are looking to switch career paths or accelerate your career progress.
Wage Premium:
Higher educational qualifications generally necessitate higher wage premiums in different career environments. With a Master’s degree comes added qualification and skill set, positioning you for even more responsibilities in your work environment. It is important to note that some Master Degree holders enjoy parity with holders of bachelor’s degrees in higher-paying fields. However, your focus should be on your career of choice.
Deeper Knowledge:
Postgraduate programs, such as full-time masters programs, are mostly specialized in nature. If you have a genuine interest in your field and desire to gain even more theoretical and practical knowledge in this course of study, a master’s program will be beneficial. Specialization also improves your chances of career progression and improved wage premium.
Real World Knowledge and Networking:
One of the more specific advantages of pursuing a full-time Master’s program, not just a Master’s program, is the real world scenarios it prepares you for. Many schools send their postgraduate students out into the field for studies and invaluable work experience, exposing them to the real world work environment. This allows students at this level to gain practical skills applicable to the real world environment, while also providing you with a chance to build your network for the future.
Program Speed:
Yet another benefit of a full-time program is the speed of completion. Going part-time, whether in a physical institution or through an online course, may allow you to pursue the program according to your pace, but it also does well to ensure the program lingers and drags on. A full-time study for masters is usually completed between 1 – 2 years, accelerating your goal to acquire relevant knowledge and certification.
The question of whether you should pursue a master’s program is a very personal one. It is generally a cost-intensive venture, which means that you may be short on budget. Otherwise, you might be skeptical of committing such amounts without any assurances. However, programs like the BBS full-time master’s program ensure that you ultimately get great value for your financial, material and time commitments.
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What is the one thing that you cannot imagine your life without? And I am talking about the basic necessities right now! If your answer is electricity, you are correct! Probably because of the growing demand for the same, the search for “how to become an electrician” has increased considerably on the internet over the years.
And why won’t that happen? After all, just like many blue collar jobs, it is a job that comes with some of the most essential benefits that one can think of. Additionally, you do not even need to have a very high qualification.
If these perks have got you curious, then I have you covered! Keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
What Does an Electrician Do?
When it comes to electrical equipment in homes and businesses, an electrician handles a wide variety of tasks.
They also maintain external electrically-harvesting infrastructure such as cell towers and power poles. Among their other responsibilities are:
Installations: In a home or office structure, electricians usually install a wide variety of electronic equipment, such as built-in electronic appliances, light fixtures, and telephone poles. In order to prevent any electrical faults or outages, they make sure that every component is functioning properly.
Repairs: An electrician is typically in charge of making repairs when an electrical system or gadget malfunctions. They apply their critical thinking abilities to identify the root cause of an issue before working quickly and effectively to find a solution.
Maintenance: An electrician may conduct routine checks to ensure that an electrical item is still operational and running as intended after installing or fixing it. They make tweaks to improve the electrical machine or device's performance after determining whether it is wasting electricity needlessly.
Blueprint Development: The ability to read and analyze technical blueprints and diagrams is essential for an electrician to do their tasks well. These plans may also be created and reviewed by senior-level electricians to make sure they adhere to the necessary performance and safety requirements.
Checks: Electricians frequently plan recurring checks to look for any problems or possible safety risks with an electrical machine. If they find problems, they may resolve them right away or, if further work is needed, arrange for a professional to visit.
Replacements: An electrician may swap out outdated or broken equipment for brand-new models. Because they are safer to use and help to minimize faults, replacements are required.
How to Become an Electrician: Step-by-Step Guide
In this fast-paced world, people are always on the lookout for shortcuts. They need to ensure that they get what they want in the shortest time possible. And that is the same for degrees and jobs.
Among these, becoming an electrician probably takes some of the shortest time, which might be why people often want to know how to become an electrician.
Now that you are ware if what an electrician does, let us get straight to the point. Here are some of the things that you need to do if you want to become one:
Education
This is the first step of the entire process that you must keep in mind. Having a good education that helps you specialize in the field is something that you need to have if you want to become an electrician.
High School Diploma or Equivalent: A strong foundation is key. Courses in algebra, geometry, and basic electronics during high school set the stage for a successful career in electricity.
Technical Training: Post-secondary technical training is where you'll learn the intricacies of electrical systems. These programs often include modules on residential wiring, commercial electrical systems, and even industrial applications.
Training
The next thing that you need to have is proper training. Considering the fact that becoming an electrician is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, it is important that you take part in an apprenticeship program.
Registering
The first thing you will have to do in this case is to register for your program. Apprenticeships are the golden ticket in this trade. They blend classroom learning and real-world experience, as well as paid training that leads to mastery.
Duration And Experience
During your apprenticeship, you'll clock in thousands of hours of training, which is essential for honing your skills. You'll learn not just how to install and repair but also how to troubleshoot and innovate.
Licensing
Next up is licensing. You might wonder why it is that important, but it is. The first thing you will need to start working as an electrician is a license.
To get that, you must take a test that asks questions about electrical work and the rules electricians have to follow.
Besides getting a license, you can also get several certifications, which will go a long way. You can choose the type of certification you want in a specific field.
These certifications are great when it comes to searching for jobs. There are times when people get preferences over others just because they have extra certifications.
Why Should You Become an Electrician?
You might be wondering if there are any perks or benefits of being an electrician. To answer that, YES. There are several reasons why you should try to become an electrician.
However, if I have to point out a few, here they are:
1. Job opportunities
Due to the necessity for their valuable talents by corporations, institutions, and individuals, electricians have a wide variety of career prospects.
Governments, businesses, and manufacturing can hire electricians. Their skills are essential for large-scale electrical system maintenance and repair, such as municipal power networks.
Additionally, they assist with the installation, maintenance, and replacement of home electrical appliances like generators, HVAC systems, washers, and dryers.
The electrician is responsible for restoring power when a facility or a region as a whole loses power. Additionally, there are chances for specialization and career progression.
Among them, these are a few that you should know about:
electrical contractor
Solar panel installer
Automobile electrician
Industrial electrical contractor
Designer of electrical systems
2. Doesn't require a Degree
What a lot of people are unaware of is the fact that this is one of those jobs for which you do not need a degree. Yes, that’s right!
To work as an electrician, one is not specifically required to hold an undergraduate or bachelor's degree from an institution.
This enables a person to save money that they could have used on supplies, lodging, and tuition.
Even if it's not compulsory, attending a community or technical college to obtain a two-year degree or diploma in a profession like electrical technology is still a possibility.
This can assist you in setting yourself apart from other applicants who lack the same credentials.
3. Good Salary
Because they work with high-risk materials and have essential expertise, electricians are paid fairly well.
An electrician makes, on average, $56,111 a year, or about $25 per hour, across the country. This estimate may differ depending on a number of factors, including the person's location, employment history, job experience, credentials, and any other qualities.
Additionally, overtime labor is available to electricians, allowing them to increase their pay. An electrician may bargain for higher compensation as they get more expertise and experience.
4. Positive Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment growth for electricians will be 9% over the next ten years, which is typical for all occupations.
According to this forecast, there will be 84,700 more work opportunities for electricians, many of which will arise from employee transfers and retirement.
Career gains for electricians may follow the emergence of alternate power sources, such as solar and wind energy.
Forecasts suggest that installing these alternative power sources to power grids, commercial buildings, and private houses would require electricians in the upcoming years.
5. Self-Employment Opportunities
This is a realistic career path for you to choose if you wish to work as an electrician while also becoming an entrepreneur or freelancer.
Self-employed electricians may operate as independent contractors or as business owners, hiring and supervising a group of other qualified experts for their small electrical firm.
This gives you more career autonomy by letting you decide on your own pay scale, project timelines, and working hours.
Working for yourself also typically entitles you to tax write-offs through your firm, which can result in year-end financial savings.
Wrapping It Up!
In case you have been searching for “how to become an electrician, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know.
All you need to do is scroll down until you reach the bottom of the page. Then, leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. I will be there to answer them all for you! Until then, stay safe and keep safe!
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Job interviews can be intimidating, even to the most seasoned professional, who has been through many interviews!
However, preparation is indeed the key. Especially when you can pick and choose impressive answers to some of the most asked interview questions.
Knowing what to expect and how to answer common questions can make a big difference.
We’ll explore the most common interview questions with expert tips to help you craft thoughtful, compelling answers. Something that can guarantee a great interview!
Whether you're a professional at giving interviews or new to the job market, these insights can boost your confidence altogether!
1. Tell Me About Yourself
This is a common question, and there is a 99% that your interviewer will ask you the same.
Sounds easy, right?
I'm not trying to scare you of something, but the answer cannot stick to a chronology of your name, hobbies, and experiences.
This question is often your first opportunity to sell the interviewer on yourself and your background.
Did they ask the question because they want to get a sense of how your work experience and background will add value to their open position?
Expert Tip: Tailor your answer to reflect your relevant work and educational history for that specific role. Begin with your most recent experiences or studies and work backward from there. Be brief but thorough.
“Hi, my name is XYZ, and I’ve been working on my digital marketing skills, specifically in SEO and content strategy, over the last three years. I’ve increased organic traffic by 35% at my current company and would like to do it at a larger, more dynamic company.”
2. Why Do You Want To Work Here?
Employers would like to know whether you have researched their company and if you see a long-term association.
They would like to see whether you want to get this job or if it is just another run-on-the-mill interview.
Even if you must subtly fake it, it is better to show genuine interest.
Expert Tip: The last thing I think about when making decisions about my career is the pay or benefits. It just isn’t as fulfilling as everything that can make you grow professionally. So, when you answer this question, try not to talk about the CTC. You wouldn't want to give the impression that you are hearing just for the money.
Example Answer:
“What excites me about working at Company X is the open culture and focus on constant learning and growth. This would allow me to thrive in a fast-paced environment where everyone willingly helps each other out to achieve our shared goal of building world-class software.
After all, who doesn't like a little challenge and team bonding? Plus, I like that feedback flows freely between employees. Irrespective of seniority, department, or location. Suppose there is a better way of doing something.”
This could also be your answer as you stress more about your personality.
“I’m really impressed with your company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation. I’ve always had a personal interest in environmentally conscious initiatives.
So, I was particularly excited to learn about your recent updates in cutting down on workplace waste. It would be a great privilege for me to work for a company that’s working towards something I care so deeply about.”
3. What Are Your Strengths?
This is your opportunity to explain why you are the best candidate for the job. However, this is not your space to brag beyond calculation. Especially if you do not have the achievement or experience to back it up.
After all, how can you understand your strengths and weaknesses if you haven't worked in a challenging setting?
So, take some time to think about your strengths and what you can bring to the role.
Expert Tip: Try to stay away from general answers such as “I’m hardworking.” Instead, opt for relevant skills and discuss how they helped you in previous positions. In fact, highlight how some of your strengths have helped you achieve something.
Example Answer:
"I think that my level of adaptability and willingness to learn is one of my greatest strengths. At my last job, we implemented XYZ, and within a month, I was the “go-to” person for troubleshooting as well as training other employees."
4. What Are Your Weaknesses?
These interview questions are often ones that people dread.
Because they do not know whether, to be honest, they should show their vulnerability or strength disguised as weakness!
Something like, "I am a perfectionist and cannot submit something unless it is top-tier work."
First, that sounds like a brag (which you shouldn't brag about, and second, it is a weakness if you keep messing with deadlines).
So, try to be as honest as you can! Plus, give your interviewers ideas on how you are working towards turning that weakness into a strength.
In fact, it is a method for the interviewer to see how self-aware you are and how much you are willing to improve.
Expert Tip: Choose a weakness but discuss how you're overcoming it. Avoid cliché answers!
Example Answer:
If you have to say "perfectionist"!
“I have always been a bit of a perfectionist, which can sometimes be a weakness. When I first started my current role, I found it difficult to delegate tasks or ask for help. Or finish anything within the deadline because submitting any work I am not satisfied with made me anxious.
Therefore, I am trying peer review as a form of coping where I let a peer review my work, and I do not think about it for the time being. It is easier for someone else to pinpoint simple errors rather than me obsessing over it."
Here is another approach to this question!
"I would often get overwhelmed because I had taken on too much when there were others around me who could help. To overcome this, I tried to understand what others were good at and how they could support me.”
5. Can You Describe A Time When You Faced A Challenge And How You Dealt With It?
Do not worry; they do not challenge your problem-solving capacity in the workplace. So, yes, if you are a fresh graduate, you can give any academic-related anecdote.
They ask this question to learn how you handle setbacks, your problem-solving approach, and whether you get frustrated easily.
Expert Tip: I would recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to tell them a story that answers these questions while highlighting a positive result.
Example Answer:
“At my last position, we were up against a deadline for a client project that seemed unattainable. I stepped up to the plate and re-prioritized the work on our team.
Then, I broke down the project into doable pieces and assigned them out properly. We met the deadline but delivered above what the client expected.”
6. Why Did You Leave Your Last Job (Or Why Are You Leaving)?
Again, feel free to feel overwhelmed because there is a reason behind your interviewer!
What is the interviewer really asking?
They want to know what’s motivating you and if you’re in good standing with your previous employer.
Expert Tip: Keep it positive! Don’t speak negatively about your previous employer. That is the biggest red flag when it comes to interviewees.
Example Answer:
“I’ve learned a great deal in my current position, but I’m ready to take on new challenges and be part of a team that’s pushing the envelope. I’m really excited about the prospect of managing a larger project and leading a team.”
7. Where Do You See Yourself In 5 Years?
These are common job interview questions that you are likely to face.
Employers want to feel that you have a plan in that you are thinking ahead and how they fit into your future.
Expert Tip: Be honest, but make sure that your answer reflects how it will help the company with your personal and professional development.
Example Answer:
“In five years, I want to be in a leadership position. I would like to continue to grow with the company, maybe lead a team, and have input strategy at a more senior level.”
8. How Do You Handle Stress And Pressure?
Stress is part of every job, but employers want to know if you can handle it.
It is also a good way to test your overall critical thinking capacity!
Expert Tip: Describe your strategies to remain calm and productive under stress. If applicable, give an example of how your resilience has been beneficial for you and your team.
Example Answer:
“It’s not easy, but we all need to know how to keep calm and carry on.
I actually work very well in teams! Because versatile with my approach. I am confident in my ability to get along with many people and still feel comfortable being a hard worker in a team-based environment.
Plus, a healthy competition is always good to achieve one's full potential.”
9. Tell Me About A Time You Worked In A Team
Collaboration is important in many positions. You will likely be working on a team with others, especially if they are hiring you for a team lead position.
Expert Tip: Think of a specific time when you worked well as part of a team and what happened.
Example Answer:
“In my previous role, I did a project that involved cross-communication between marketing/sales/product teams. As the coordinator, I had to have everyone aligned and meet weekly.
I also saw a 20% improvement in product launch efficiency. The key is always to hear the other person out before going into judging mode. Even if their ideas do not align with yours, it is better to get some of the best is better.”
10. Why Should We Hire You?
Yes, it is one of the hard interview questions that many fail to answer.
However, this is your chance to tell them why you’re the best candidate for the job. Or at least explain why you would stand out among all the others who have come for an interview.
Expert Tip: Try to be subtle. Do not brag. Keep reiterating the most relevant skills and experiences. Show how you can add value to the company and solve its specific challenges.
Example Answer:
"With a background in content marketing and SEO, I think I could really help to grow your online presence and drive website traffic. I’ve managed campaigns and data before, so I would jump in right away and start adding value to the team."
Additional Tip: Why Having A Good Resume Matters
Using the interview is important, but first, you must get the interview. You can instantly boost your chances of getting an interview by designing a strong resume.
Use these resume tips when writing yours:
Tailor your resume for each job application by using keywords in the job posting.
Results Not Responsibilities. Metrics and Achievements! They do not want to know your skills and experiences but what you did with them.
Keep it clean and professional; you don’t need any gimmicks or graphics.
Make sure there are no errors in your resume and that it is well-organized so recruiters can easily check the information they need.
Mastering The Interview Process!
Preparing for common interview questions is essential for making a strong impression. But remember, each interview is unique.
Do not forget to ask the right interview questions to your employer. Staying mute won’t help you ace that job!
Stay flexible and authentic in your responses, and don’t be afraid to show your personality.
Combine these expert tips with a well-crafted resume, and you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job.
&
Please Do not forget your interview clothes. Check the best interview attire for men which will make you stand out!
Happy job hunting!
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Your resume is the most important element in your application portfolio. You could have an impressive education. You may have a solid work history and volunteering experience. But, if your resume doesn’t showcase these features, you may be passed over. Worse, the person who gets the position may not have your skills or your sense of responsibility. Why would they choose him to interview over you?
Many templates will help you design a resume online. What’s more, there are plenty of people who are willing to help you design and write your resume. These people will twist words until they do not resemble the truth, but they are not lies. Here is an example.
There was a warehouse worker who put away stock and did cycle-counts. During the lunch break, he would answer telephone calls putting them on hold before his superior could take over. His resume read, “Assisted the operations manager in maintaining a multi-million dollar inventory” and “Served as backup for the parts manager when he was unavailable.” While these statements are not necessarily lies, they are not exactly truthful either.
We are not suggesting that you bend the truth in your resume like this person did but we are suggesting that a properly worded resume gets you in the running.
Who do you have to impress?
If you are invited over for an interview, you will probably have to go through several layers of management to secure the position. You will have to impress each of these people. But, there is something you need to keep in mind. Most department heads have administrative assistants. Often, these assistants are tasked with screening the cover letters and resumes that come in.
The assistant typically has one criterion to look for. He or she will look for these criteria and give the management team their opinion of the top 10. This means that you want your resume to showcase all your strengths. But the wording must be simple and easy to understand.
If you write, “Personally designed an automated system allowing real-time delivery of HVAC equipment on commercial job sites, giving our clients a 10% increase of their ROI” The assistant will think, “Okay, whatever.” But, if you write. “I designed a program that saved our customers time on their jobs and gave them a higher return on their investment.” The bell goes off, and you make the cut. You have to impress people in a way that be understandable both to a CEO and a receptionist. Save your gift of gab for the interview.
Resume Content:
Your resume tells the reader who you are. The resume is the document that lists your education, experience, and achievements. It allows you to show where you went the extra mile. By using clear language, you are sending a message that you do not need to muddy the waters with your impressive vocabulary. You have the background, skills, and knowledge to bring to the table.
All resumes offer an equal opportunity to show who you are. Your goal is to write it in a professional manner that emphasizes your qualities and grabs the reader's attention. The format you choose is your tool to reach that goal.
You can look for resumes that appeal to you online. Be selective of the website you use, as you do not want a cookie-cutter resume. Look for a quality sample resume, and you will be at the head of the pack from step one.
What your resume needs to include?
When you find a resume sample that you like, you will start filling it with your personal data. Of course, that includes your name, address, and contact information. After that, you can write a brief summary of what you do and what you aspire to do in the future. This lets the reader make a first impression about you.
You will go on to add your education and any specialized training you may have completed. Do not stretch the truth here. These things are easily verified online.
Next is your work history. Write down where you worked, what your achievements are and how you advanced your career within the company (if relevant). You do not have to explain why you left unless the employer specifically asks. If they do, be careful not to disrespect or criticize the company you left. If you left because you did not get a promotion, you can say that you want to work for a company that offers more opportunities for career growth.
Finally, you may be asked for references. Do not list references on your resume. Instead, send your resume with “References available upon requests.”
Conclusion:
Use a high-quality resume format. Be straightforward and honest.
Bonus tip: If you are applying for a job offered by your current company’s competitor, do not hint that you are willing to give them insider tips. You have to show respect for the industry and be professional. That will take you much further in the business world.
Read More:
5 Common Resume Mistakes You Should Avoid.
How to Write an Effective Resume that Get Noticed?
Tips on Building Your Resume for a Website Design Company.