If you are making a major career change, get the information you need to make an informed decision. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Assess your current situation.
2. Identify career interests.
3. Determine skills and costs related to interests.
4. Develop and implement a written action plan.
5. Monitor and make adjustments.

At Rinker and Associates we help you jumpstart your career transition and keep you on course throughout your journey!

If there is a gap between where you are and where you want to be; and you are fully willing to do the work required to get you where you want to go; then it may be time for you to consider working with a coach or consultant.

Being unique requires real thought. Here are some of the best tactics that are rarely used by job seekers:

Rinker and Associates is ready to set your career or business development strategy in motion and get you ready for a bright future!

The holiday season quickly approaches and you begin receiving invitations that provide you with stellar opportunities to be seen conducting business in high profile social settings.

Printed at the bottom of the invitation is the phrase, "Black Tie Optional". What exactly does that mean?

With only one chance to get it right; here's a guide to help make sure you know what to wear and when to wear it.

Q: Tell me about yourself.

This question is not one to take lightly. You'll want to have a professionally sound and objective answer ready. Have several prepared stories of a challenge you worked through with a successful outcome or that became a learning experience. Never say anything negative.

By the way, if asked "what do you like to do for fun?", keep away from stories about how you and your buddies like to play "spy who came in from the surf" in your spare time. Keep it real, but make your answer relevant to the role and organization you are interviewing for.

Rinker and Associates will help you fine tune your interviewing skills. Contact us today to schedule your practice interview!

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 16 percent of today's workforce is age 55 and older, and that number is expected to reach 21 percent by 2014 -- an increase of more than 11 million workers.

How are companies responding? The AARP found that while many companies still have a long way to go when it comes to attracting and retaining older workers, there are a number of businesses that have put innovative programs in place that benefit workers over 50.

I recently attended the Professional Business Women's Conference (PBWC.org) at the Sacramento Convention Center. For me, most of the value of my time spent was derived from the keynote speakers. I found myself jotting down quotes all during the day. Here are just a few of my favorites:

Arianna Huffington, Co-Founder and Editor, HuffingtonPost.com
"I have survived so many terrible things, most of which never happened!" (Arianna quoting Renee Montagne)
"You can complete a project by dropping it."

Carly Fiorina (former CEO, HP):
"Pleasing someone else isn't life sustainable."
"Leadership is about striking a balance between realism and optimism."
"Courage is acting in spite of fear."

Leslie Sbrocco, Wine Expert:
"If there was such a thing as envy among grapes, it would be 'pinot envy'!"

:) LLR