An educated and trained workforce is essential if Americans want to develop and maintain a viable economy. From an individual perspective, preparation is key to employability. Sound decisions regarding initial education and training are important, but people actually need to continue learning throughout their lifetimes.
Need for education and training
Education and training are very important for individual progress and for the future of society. One of the unwavering messages of the Bible is that Christians are to be diligent, skilled, and faithful in developing their talents. Education and training are two of the primary ways we become good stewards of our talents and, therefore, become excellent in our work and set good examples for others.
For many adults, further education and training may not seem like an available option. Even if formal education courses are not obtainable, expanding their knowledge daily should be the goal for those who want to develop and use their talents in the workplace. Many career strategy experts agree that unless people continue to develop their skills they’re likely to find themselves left out of the workplace.
Education and training
Research by the U.S. Department of Labor reveals that, although either education or training can be beneficial in enhancing career opportunities, for people to develop their full career potential, both education and training are needed. The following are the most common education and training options available for people who want to increase the likelihood of a successful career.
1. Do-it-yourself learning. Many smaller companies can’t afford to assist their employees or they haven’t realized the need to upgrade the skill of their employees. If this is the case, your education and training must become your responsibility. Those who are proactive toward improving their skills and knowledge will keep pace with changing career trends. Those who seek additional education or upgrade their training only after their job situation demands it or because they are forced to by their employers may, during an economic turndown, find that they are no longer needed by their employers.
2. On the job training. Many companies offer training to their employees. Find out if your business or organization offers training programs or tuition assistance; let it be known that you are interested in upgrading your skills.
3. Apprenticeships. The great value of apprenticeships is that they allow people to get hands-on experience in the occupational field they’re considering. With a new emphasis on quality, companies realize that quality does not come without experience and training. If you are in transition to a new occupation, check to see if there are apprentice programs available.
4. Internship. Internships provide academic orientation and training in a work environment. Minimum qualifications can vary from a high school diploma to graduate school, depending on the field. Benefits from internship vary widely. Some pay a salary; others offer only room and board, and some may provide only the opportunity for on-the-job experience and training.
5. Cooperative education. Cooperative education (Co-op) programs are structured programs that alternate terms of work with terms of instruction. Co-op programs are especially good because they allow students to gain experience in a field of work or an insight into a particular company.
6. Military education and training. The armed forces offer some great opportunities for leadership and technical training. Tuition assistance programs are available for everyone, and college classes are available on most military installations. The military option isn’t for everyone, but for those who are young and want to serve their country it can be beneficial.
7. Vocational and technical schools. Nearly every community in America has a technical school within reasonable driving distance. Most vo-tech schools are government sponsored and therefore are relatively inexpensive. These schools typically have good relationships with local companies and know what specific occupations are needed in the local economy.
8. Community colleges. Community colleges are one of the great resources of our country and offer a tremendous education bargain. They offer a wide range of education and training courses at a relatively inexpensive tuition and within easy driving distance of most people. Because they have such a close relationship with local businesses, community colleges should be able to help you learn about specific occupations that are available in your area.
9. Four year colleges and universities. Because college costs are escalating rapidly and jobs for college graduates are decreasing, we encourage you carefully to consider all the other options before you enroll in a four-year course of study. We suggest you consider education and training in light of the realities of affordability, return on investment, and the needs of the workplace.
10. Graduate school. For certain professions, graduate school will be mandatory. However, we caution against pinning your hopes for employment or employment advancement on a higher degree. In many fields, employers will be more impressed by skills and technical expertise than by an advanced degree.
11. Nontraditional education and training. Schools are offering more and more options for people to take education and training courses. These include night and Saturday classes, two-week to four-week, intensive-concentration short courses, workshops, continuing education courses, adult-education courses, self-directed courses, correspondence, distance learning, and Internet courses. If people want additional education and training, they likely can find what they want, at less cost, in some form of nontraditional education.
Conclusion
Sometimes it takes a lot of faith and courage to choose to use your gifts and follow the desires God has put in your heart. As is the case with most spiritual issues, God’s way may take a different path than what the world dictates. So, the decision to pursue additional education and training should be based on good stewardship of your talents and what is necessary to develop further those talents in the career God has given you.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=372
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Reshaping of the work world
Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) paraphrased an ancient Persian proverb in his Conduct of Life: Behavior, when he wrote, "The world possesses three types of people: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who know not that things are happening or have happened." This is so true with regard to today’s work world.
The cutting edge for workers in the modern workplace most likely will belong to the ones who make things happen. Two key characteristics describe workers who should be able to thrive in the rapidly changing work world: focus and versatility.
Characteristics
The first key characteristic that thriving workers must possess is focus. They must have the ability to focus their work efforts in the area of their God-given natural abilities, strengths, and talents. This will require a thorough knowledge of these God-given attributes. Workers who are not sure of their talents or who do not know where their strengths lie most likely will flounder in the ever-changing workplace.
The second key characteristic is versatility. In today’s workplace it’s usually not enough for workers simply to know their talents, abilities, and strengths. They also must be able to discern quickly how to use those attributes in the workplace with assurance and confidence, knowing that God has not given anyone else their particular strengths and abilities; in those they are unique.
Ten trends that are reshaping the work world
As the work world changes, workers must be able to recognize and respond positively as they react to changes around them. This means workers must take the initiative and the responsibility for personal improvement, career development, and enhancement. There are generally 10 trends that are currently influencing and reshaping the work world. Workers must recognize these trends and do what is necessary to ensure that they conform and are not excluded from the changing workplace.
* The work world is becoming more global. The work world no longer is operating exclusively within independent and nationalistic cultures. Industrialized nations with 350 million workers, whose pay scale averages $18 per hour, are now in competition with the 1.2 billion workers of Third World nations who average less than $2 per hour. For this reason workers need to consider becoming proficient in second or third languages and in high tech communications.
* Corporate downsizing. As global networking and labor cost competition from the Third World increase, market prices must remain steady to remain competitive. Therefore, industrial nation corporations must institute cost-cutting measures—layoffs and forced early retirement—in order to maintain corporate profits.
* More work for fewer workers. When downsizing occurs, its more than likely that fewer laid-off workers will be recalled or replaced. Instead, remaining staff will be expected to take up the slack, which will result in a heavier workload for the same amount of pay.
* Talent and ability are becoming the focus to ensure job security. Job security in the future belongs to workers who develop track records of being excellent at the skill demanded from them. Quality productivity makes workers necessary to the economic success of businesses and organizations. In essence, security rests in the clear knowledge of God-given talents and compatible work settings where they can be used to their maximum potential.
* Rapid increase in technology. Ten years ago, 25 percent of American workers used a computer on the job. Today that number exceeds 50 percent. Time is money and access to information is money. Increasingly sophisticated technology delivers needed information quicker.
* The growth of home-based businesses. In the 1990s more than 20 percent of workers who had been laid off or forced into early retirement chose to start their own home-based businesses. The fastest growing sector of our economy is home-based businesses. With the increase in day trading and home-based software development, this trend likely will continue.
* Telecommuting from home. As workers continue to become empowered to make decisions and work independently on projects, the feasibility of working from home offices increases. All that is needed is a PC and a modem. Currently at least one-third of America’s workforce is working at least part time from home.
* Higher education standards. Generally speaking, the growing demand for generalists who have specialist capabilities is forcing the workforce to be qualified to meet this demand. Therefore college education or skilled vocational/technical school training is becoming more and more mandatory in order for workers to be competitive in the job market.
* The increase of temporaries and part-timers. Twenty or 30 years ago temporaries and part-timers were regarded as second-class job positions. Now they are emerging not only as respectable but also as desirable career opportunities. Because businesses and corporations are paying upward to $4,000 or more in benefits for each full-time employee—not including vacation time, holidays, sick time, military leave, personal leave, or retirement— temporaries and part-timers are increasingly becoming attractive alternatives to full-time workers.
* Need for occupational upgrading and continued education. In our new, ever-changing work world, workers must constantly upgrade and refine their skills and talents. God blesses His children who invest their talents and use them in such a way that He is glorified by their work ethics and professionalism. "For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away" (Matthew 25:29). In other words, use it or lose it.
Conclusion
Christian workers need to anticipate changes in the workplace with faith and courage. Although it is impossible to predict specific details regarding the future direction of our work world, we can observe and respond to the "signs of the times," with respect to the direction our work world is heading. Regardless of the direction, if our faith is in our Lord we cannot be led astray. "He will not allow your foot to slip; he who keeps you will not slumber" .
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=533
The cutting edge for workers in the modern workplace most likely will belong to the ones who make things happen. Two key characteristics describe workers who should be able to thrive in the rapidly changing work world: focus and versatility.
Characteristics
The first key characteristic that thriving workers must possess is focus. They must have the ability to focus their work efforts in the area of their God-given natural abilities, strengths, and talents. This will require a thorough knowledge of these God-given attributes. Workers who are not sure of their talents or who do not know where their strengths lie most likely will flounder in the ever-changing workplace.
The second key characteristic is versatility. In today’s workplace it’s usually not enough for workers simply to know their talents, abilities, and strengths. They also must be able to discern quickly how to use those attributes in the workplace with assurance and confidence, knowing that God has not given anyone else their particular strengths and abilities; in those they are unique.
Ten trends that are reshaping the work world
As the work world changes, workers must be able to recognize and respond positively as they react to changes around them. This means workers must take the initiative and the responsibility for personal improvement, career development, and enhancement. There are generally 10 trends that are currently influencing and reshaping the work world. Workers must recognize these trends and do what is necessary to ensure that they conform and are not excluded from the changing workplace.
* The work world is becoming more global. The work world no longer is operating exclusively within independent and nationalistic cultures. Industrialized nations with 350 million workers, whose pay scale averages $18 per hour, are now in competition with the 1.2 billion workers of Third World nations who average less than $2 per hour. For this reason workers need to consider becoming proficient in second or third languages and in high tech communications.
* Corporate downsizing. As global networking and labor cost competition from the Third World increase, market prices must remain steady to remain competitive. Therefore, industrial nation corporations must institute cost-cutting measures—layoffs and forced early retirement—in order to maintain corporate profits.
* More work for fewer workers. When downsizing occurs, its more than likely that fewer laid-off workers will be recalled or replaced. Instead, remaining staff will be expected to take up the slack, which will result in a heavier workload for the same amount of pay.
* Talent and ability are becoming the focus to ensure job security. Job security in the future belongs to workers who develop track records of being excellent at the skill demanded from them. Quality productivity makes workers necessary to the economic success of businesses and organizations. In essence, security rests in the clear knowledge of God-given talents and compatible work settings where they can be used to their maximum potential.
* Rapid increase in technology. Ten years ago, 25 percent of American workers used a computer on the job. Today that number exceeds 50 percent. Time is money and access to information is money. Increasingly sophisticated technology delivers needed information quicker.
* The growth of home-based businesses. In the 1990s more than 20 percent of workers who had been laid off or forced into early retirement chose to start their own home-based businesses. The fastest growing sector of our economy is home-based businesses. With the increase in day trading and home-based software development, this trend likely will continue.
* Telecommuting from home. As workers continue to become empowered to make decisions and work independently on projects, the feasibility of working from home offices increases. All that is needed is a PC and a modem. Currently at least one-third of America’s workforce is working at least part time from home.
* Higher education standards. Generally speaking, the growing demand for generalists who have specialist capabilities is forcing the workforce to be qualified to meet this demand. Therefore college education or skilled vocational/technical school training is becoming more and more mandatory in order for workers to be competitive in the job market.
* The increase of temporaries and part-timers. Twenty or 30 years ago temporaries and part-timers were regarded as second-class job positions. Now they are emerging not only as respectable but also as desirable career opportunities. Because businesses and corporations are paying upward to $4,000 or more in benefits for each full-time employee—not including vacation time, holidays, sick time, military leave, personal leave, or retirement— temporaries and part-timers are increasingly becoming attractive alternatives to full-time workers.
* Need for occupational upgrading and continued education. In our new, ever-changing work world, workers must constantly upgrade and refine their skills and talents. God blesses His children who invest their talents and use them in such a way that He is glorified by their work ethics and professionalism. "For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away" (Matthew 25:29). In other words, use it or lose it.
Conclusion
Christian workers need to anticipate changes in the workplace with faith and courage. Although it is impossible to predict specific details regarding the future direction of our work world, we can observe and respond to the "signs of the times," with respect to the direction our work world is heading. Regardless of the direction, if our faith is in our Lord we cannot be led astray. "He will not allow your foot to slip; he who keeps you will not slumber" .
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=533
Paying for job hunting
If you are looking for a job, you might come across employment ads that were placed by employment assistance businesses.
Although many of these firms may be legitimate, many others misrepresent their services, promote fictitious and out-dated job listings, or charge large upfront fees for services that often may not lead to a job.
Some ads might direct the potential client to call a 900 telephone number for job information. You will be charged either a flat fee or you will be charged by the minute for each 900 call, and the charge usually is much greater than the toll for an ordinary long distance call.
Other ads may ask you to visit the company’s place of business for assistance in résumé preparation, letter writing, and interviewing skills.
Choosing an employment service company
Do not judge an employment service company by its name.
Classified advertising and telephone book listings do not always make clear the differences among employment services. Many names are used loosely and interchangeably.
It is important to find out what services the company offers, how much those services cost, and who pays the fee.
Before you contact any employment service company, follow the suggestions listed below. In addition, before you pay or commit to pay for domestic or overseas job placement information, contact the company and have them send to you in writing what you will get for your money.
* Consider your needs carefully. What type of employment assistance do you need and how much are you willing to spend for that assistance?
* Know what a 900 number call to an employment listing service will cost before you make the call. Reputable companies will state these costs upfront. If you have fraudulent 900 number charges on your phone bill, ask your telephone company to delete them. Although the company is not legally obligated to do so, many times, if you have been a consistent and faithful customer, they will delete them.
* Before you sign a contract, ask any employment assistance company you contact if you or the employer pay for its services.
* When you are required to pay, ask the company if payment must be made before services are given and if you are required to pay even if you do not find a job.
* Look for an employment service company that regularly fills the sort of position you are seeking. Although only 10 to 15 percent of a company’s employment needs are advertised in newspaper or trade magazine classified ads, they are good sources for finding specialized employment agencies as well as employment positions.
* Realize that employment service companies can promise only to help you find a job; they cannot guarantee that they will find you an appropriate job that meets your talent or ability standards.
* Check with your local consumer protection agency and state attorney general’s office to find out whether they have received any complaints about an employment company that interests you. You also can ask these agencies about state laws governing employment service companies.
* Always read the contract carefully before you sign it. Do not feel you have to rush into any decision. You should thoroughly read and understand all provisions of the contract before you sign it. If verbal promises are made, make sure they appear in the contract, because the written contract is the legal document, not what is said or promised verbally.
There are six types of service companies that offer assistance in obtaining employment: public employment services, employment agencies, executive search services, temporary help services, executive counseling services, and job listing services.
Public employment services
The federally funded and state-operated public employment service, also known as the Job Service, operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
There are some 2,300 points of service nationwide, of which approximately 1,700 are considered full-time, full-service offices.
The Employment Service provides its service free of charge both to employers and to job seekers. Openings range from entry-level positions to technical and professional positions.
The Employment Service provides access to the Interstate Job Bank, a nationwide source of job opportunities.
It also provides links to numerous employment and training programs in each state, including programs for the disabled, minorities, older workers, veterans, welfare recipients, and youth.
Employment agencies
Employment agencies or personal placement services work to fill specific positions available within companies.
Their purpose is to bring applicants and employers together. In many cases, the hiring company pays the placement fee.
In other places, where law permits it, the fee is either shared by the employer and the job seeker or is billed directly to the job seeker once his or her job has been secured.
Employment agencies are generally licensed in the state in which they do business.
Executive search services
Executive search firms or executive recruiters are hired by businesses to find the right person for a particular job within a company. These recruiters are sometimes referred to as headhunters.
The executive who is hired does not pay the fee; fee payment is part of the agreement between the hiring company and the search company and could be as high as an amount equal to one-third of the potential employee’s annual income.
Executive search companies usually subscribe to a code of ethics established by industry members, and some are licensed by the states in which they do business, as required by state law.
Temporary help services
Temporary help services are companies who provide workers to businesses on a temporary basis.
Businesses pay an agreed-upon wage to the temporary service for work performed by its employees. Workers are then paid by the temporary service firm, not by the temporary employer.
Executive counseling services
Executive counseling services or career counseling services assist job seekers more with career decisions rather than with job placement.
They may provide such services as skill identification and self-evaluation, résumé preparation and letter writing, and general information about companies in a particular geographical area or job field.
Fees could be $4,000 or more, and payment is often required before services are provided. You probably will have to pay this fee even if you do not find a job.
Placement is not guaranteed and executive counseling companies may or may not be state licensed.
Job listing services
Job listing services or advisory services sell information, sometimes through 900 telephone numbers, about obtaining employment in the U.S. or abroad. Information may include lists of job openings, general tips on conducting a successful job search or interview, and broad guidance in résumé writing.
Advisory firms often require an upfront fee, which usually is charged even if you do not find a job through the firm.
Be aware that some listing service and advisory companies may place ads that appear to offer jobs when, in fact, the firms are selling only employment information.
Free employment information
There are a number of free sources of employment information, in addition to newspaper and magazine classified ads.
* Job service offices usually post job vacancies. They also provide some counseling and referrals to other job resources.
* Local and county human resources offices and information referral services usually offer placement assistance. In addition, they can give you the names of other groups that can help.
* University and college career service offices usually limit their assistance to students or alumni, but some may let you look at their job listings. They may be a good reference for free job information.
* Local libraries also can be a good source of information. Ask the librarian to direct you to material that can help you write a résumé, conduct an interview, or compile a list of companies you might contact about job openings. Most libraries have a good selection of specialty magazines and newspapers in which you can search for a job in the classifieds, as well as Internet access in which you can search online.
Conclusion
As you begin a job search, there is no way to predict how it will go. Most likely it will require a focused and persistent effort on your part.
Although without a doubt the most effective method of finding a job is through your personal contacts—friends, family, or acquaintances—there are instances in which employment service companies can be helpful and effective, especially when you have exhausted all your personal contacts.
However, before you decide on a particular company, investigate it thoroughly.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=469
Although many of these firms may be legitimate, many others misrepresent their services, promote fictitious and out-dated job listings, or charge large upfront fees for services that often may not lead to a job.
Some ads might direct the potential client to call a 900 telephone number for job information. You will be charged either a flat fee or you will be charged by the minute for each 900 call, and the charge usually is much greater than the toll for an ordinary long distance call.
Other ads may ask you to visit the company’s place of business for assistance in résumé preparation, letter writing, and interviewing skills.
Choosing an employment service company
Do not judge an employment service company by its name.
Classified advertising and telephone book listings do not always make clear the differences among employment services. Many names are used loosely and interchangeably.
It is important to find out what services the company offers, how much those services cost, and who pays the fee.
Before you contact any employment service company, follow the suggestions listed below. In addition, before you pay or commit to pay for domestic or overseas job placement information, contact the company and have them send to you in writing what you will get for your money.
* Consider your needs carefully. What type of employment assistance do you need and how much are you willing to spend for that assistance?
* Know what a 900 number call to an employment listing service will cost before you make the call. Reputable companies will state these costs upfront. If you have fraudulent 900 number charges on your phone bill, ask your telephone company to delete them. Although the company is not legally obligated to do so, many times, if you have been a consistent and faithful customer, they will delete them.
* Before you sign a contract, ask any employment assistance company you contact if you or the employer pay for its services.
* When you are required to pay, ask the company if payment must be made before services are given and if you are required to pay even if you do not find a job.
* Look for an employment service company that regularly fills the sort of position you are seeking. Although only 10 to 15 percent of a company’s employment needs are advertised in newspaper or trade magazine classified ads, they are good sources for finding specialized employment agencies as well as employment positions.
* Realize that employment service companies can promise only to help you find a job; they cannot guarantee that they will find you an appropriate job that meets your talent or ability standards.
* Check with your local consumer protection agency and state attorney general’s office to find out whether they have received any complaints about an employment company that interests you. You also can ask these agencies about state laws governing employment service companies.
* Always read the contract carefully before you sign it. Do not feel you have to rush into any decision. You should thoroughly read and understand all provisions of the contract before you sign it. If verbal promises are made, make sure they appear in the contract, because the written contract is the legal document, not what is said or promised verbally.
There are six types of service companies that offer assistance in obtaining employment: public employment services, employment agencies, executive search services, temporary help services, executive counseling services, and job listing services.
Public employment services
The federally funded and state-operated public employment service, also known as the Job Service, operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
There are some 2,300 points of service nationwide, of which approximately 1,700 are considered full-time, full-service offices.
The Employment Service provides its service free of charge both to employers and to job seekers. Openings range from entry-level positions to technical and professional positions.
The Employment Service provides access to the Interstate Job Bank, a nationwide source of job opportunities.
It also provides links to numerous employment and training programs in each state, including programs for the disabled, minorities, older workers, veterans, welfare recipients, and youth.
Employment agencies
Employment agencies or personal placement services work to fill specific positions available within companies.
Their purpose is to bring applicants and employers together. In many cases, the hiring company pays the placement fee.
In other places, where law permits it, the fee is either shared by the employer and the job seeker or is billed directly to the job seeker once his or her job has been secured.
Employment agencies are generally licensed in the state in which they do business.
Executive search services
Executive search firms or executive recruiters are hired by businesses to find the right person for a particular job within a company. These recruiters are sometimes referred to as headhunters.
The executive who is hired does not pay the fee; fee payment is part of the agreement between the hiring company and the search company and could be as high as an amount equal to one-third of the potential employee’s annual income.
Executive search companies usually subscribe to a code of ethics established by industry members, and some are licensed by the states in which they do business, as required by state law.
Temporary help services
Temporary help services are companies who provide workers to businesses on a temporary basis.
Businesses pay an agreed-upon wage to the temporary service for work performed by its employees. Workers are then paid by the temporary service firm, not by the temporary employer.
Executive counseling services
Executive counseling services or career counseling services assist job seekers more with career decisions rather than with job placement.
They may provide such services as skill identification and self-evaluation, résumé preparation and letter writing, and general information about companies in a particular geographical area or job field.
Fees could be $4,000 or more, and payment is often required before services are provided. You probably will have to pay this fee even if you do not find a job.
Placement is not guaranteed and executive counseling companies may or may not be state licensed.
Job listing services
Job listing services or advisory services sell information, sometimes through 900 telephone numbers, about obtaining employment in the U.S. or abroad. Information may include lists of job openings, general tips on conducting a successful job search or interview, and broad guidance in résumé writing.
Advisory firms often require an upfront fee, which usually is charged even if you do not find a job through the firm.
Be aware that some listing service and advisory companies may place ads that appear to offer jobs when, in fact, the firms are selling only employment information.
Free employment information
There are a number of free sources of employment information, in addition to newspaper and magazine classified ads.
* Job service offices usually post job vacancies. They also provide some counseling and referrals to other job resources.
* Local and county human resources offices and information referral services usually offer placement assistance. In addition, they can give you the names of other groups that can help.
* University and college career service offices usually limit their assistance to students or alumni, but some may let you look at their job listings. They may be a good reference for free job information.
* Local libraries also can be a good source of information. Ask the librarian to direct you to material that can help you write a résumé, conduct an interview, or compile a list of companies you might contact about job openings. Most libraries have a good selection of specialty magazines and newspapers in which you can search for a job in the classifieds, as well as Internet access in which you can search online.
Conclusion
As you begin a job search, there is no way to predict how it will go. Most likely it will require a focused and persistent effort on your part.
Although without a doubt the most effective method of finding a job is through your personal contacts—friends, family, or acquaintances—there are instances in which employment service companies can be helpful and effective, especially when you have exhausted all your personal contacts.
However, before you decide on a particular company, investigate it thoroughly.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=469
Networking
The most effective method of finding a new job is through contacts—the people you already know or those who know the people you already know. These people can include family, friends, schoolmates, business associates, business contacts, social contacts, and church contacts. Personal contacts are the most worthwhile and beneficial source of job leads, because they know you and they might know potential employers. The process of identifying these personal contacts and qualifying them as job search assets is called networking.
Develop categories
As you identify your contacts, it is essential that you identify every individual who can possibly assist you in your job search. Then divide the list into categories. At this point, don’t evaluate their individual abilities; just list the names. You need to use a separate page for each category and list each individual under the appropriate category: current or past employer, organizations where you have worked (paid and volunteer—profit and nonprofit), customers and clients, vendors and suppliers, church, college and educational institutions, social or professional organizations, family, friends, semi-close acquaintances, neighbors and community contacts, other people looking for new jobs, and former work companions.
Qualify contacts
Once you have completed your lists, you need to qualify the contacts and identify which ones are likely to be the most valuable, sympathetic, or have an interest in you. Then decide which ones would not be negative but probably would not be an asset or would be better to postpone until later. When the contacts have been qualified, call them and set up an appointment (brief appointment) to discuss how you would like them to help you.
Calling your contacts
Networking is most often done by telephone. The telephone is especially effective because it eliminates unnecessary paperwork and provides immediate results. Phoning has the feel of informality, so many contacts will feel more at ease with you. Except for the phone call to set up a direct interview, your typical approach to most contacts should be one of asking them to help you because of your respect for their experience and knowledge, their position of influence, and their relationship with you. If they consent to help you, determine what kind of relationship they have with those to whom they refer you, and make sure that you can use their names as referrals.
Due to automated phone systems and voice mail, it may be difficult to get through to your contacts. Nevertheless, be persistent and patient. If you have to leave a voice message, be brief and give as little information as possible but enough information so that your contact will return your call. Don’t make receptionists or message recipients uncomfortable or put them on the defensive.
Using e-mail
You also can network by e-mail, but be sure your e-mail is clear enough not to be mistaken for junk mail. Be sure to keep an electronic copy of all correspondence. If a particular message brought a desired response, you might want to keep a hard copy also.
Normal Internet etiquette includes a response to inquiries within 24 hours of receipt. Even if the addressee does not observe this protocol, you should. Also understand that typing an e-mail letter in capital letters is not accepted etiquette. Also avoid e-mail slang.
Using letters
There are times, other than not being able to reach a contact by telephone or as a follow-up to a telephone call, that you may want to write a letter rather than telephone. Letters are generally more appropriate if the contact is a distant friend, an acquaintance but not necessarily a friend, or an acquaintance of your contact (whom you do not know personally). This being the case, there are some guidelines that need to be followed.
* Don’t include a résumé unless you have specifically been asked to do so by the person you are writing or the person who referred you.
* Ask for a brief appointment to discuss things like career opportunities in the industry. Avoid asking to talk to them about employment possibilities unless you know them well enough that you would feel comfortable asking them to speak or refer on your behalf.
* Briefly highlight three or four of your major accomplishments or credentials.
* If this contact is a friend of a friend, a friend of a relative, an acquaintance of your contact, a distant relative, or so on, you should mention the name of your referral, preferably in the first sentence of the letter.
Follow up
Regardless of the results, make sure you always send a thank you note or a thank you letter (a follow-up e-mail is not appropriate unless you send an e-mail requesting a mailing address) to each contact and to each person, company, or business that you contacted and who was referred to you by your contact.
Conclusion
Although there are numerous ways to search for a job, the method that has proved to be the most effective over the years is networking. In essence, networking is getting the word out to your acquaintances and to their acquaintances about you and the objective you are seeking with regard to finding a job. It may not be easy, but with persistence it can be successful.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=469
Develop categories
As you identify your contacts, it is essential that you identify every individual who can possibly assist you in your job search. Then divide the list into categories. At this point, don’t evaluate their individual abilities; just list the names. You need to use a separate page for each category and list each individual under the appropriate category: current or past employer, organizations where you have worked (paid and volunteer—profit and nonprofit), customers and clients, vendors and suppliers, church, college and educational institutions, social or professional organizations, family, friends, semi-close acquaintances, neighbors and community contacts, other people looking for new jobs, and former work companions.
Qualify contacts
Once you have completed your lists, you need to qualify the contacts and identify which ones are likely to be the most valuable, sympathetic, or have an interest in you. Then decide which ones would not be negative but probably would not be an asset or would be better to postpone until later. When the contacts have been qualified, call them and set up an appointment (brief appointment) to discuss how you would like them to help you.
Calling your contacts
Networking is most often done by telephone. The telephone is especially effective because it eliminates unnecessary paperwork and provides immediate results. Phoning has the feel of informality, so many contacts will feel more at ease with you. Except for the phone call to set up a direct interview, your typical approach to most contacts should be one of asking them to help you because of your respect for their experience and knowledge, their position of influence, and their relationship with you. If they consent to help you, determine what kind of relationship they have with those to whom they refer you, and make sure that you can use their names as referrals.
Due to automated phone systems and voice mail, it may be difficult to get through to your contacts. Nevertheless, be persistent and patient. If you have to leave a voice message, be brief and give as little information as possible but enough information so that your contact will return your call. Don’t make receptionists or message recipients uncomfortable or put them on the defensive.
Using e-mail
You also can network by e-mail, but be sure your e-mail is clear enough not to be mistaken for junk mail. Be sure to keep an electronic copy of all correspondence. If a particular message brought a desired response, you might want to keep a hard copy also.
Normal Internet etiquette includes a response to inquiries within 24 hours of receipt. Even if the addressee does not observe this protocol, you should. Also understand that typing an e-mail letter in capital letters is not accepted etiquette. Also avoid e-mail slang.
Using letters
There are times, other than not being able to reach a contact by telephone or as a follow-up to a telephone call, that you may want to write a letter rather than telephone. Letters are generally more appropriate if the contact is a distant friend, an acquaintance but not necessarily a friend, or an acquaintance of your contact (whom you do not know personally). This being the case, there are some guidelines that need to be followed.
* Don’t include a résumé unless you have specifically been asked to do so by the person you are writing or the person who referred you.
* Ask for a brief appointment to discuss things like career opportunities in the industry. Avoid asking to talk to them about employment possibilities unless you know them well enough that you would feel comfortable asking them to speak or refer on your behalf.
* Briefly highlight three or four of your major accomplishments or credentials.
* If this contact is a friend of a friend, a friend of a relative, an acquaintance of your contact, a distant relative, or so on, you should mention the name of your referral, preferably in the first sentence of the letter.
Follow up
Regardless of the results, make sure you always send a thank you note or a thank you letter (a follow-up e-mail is not appropriate unless you send an e-mail requesting a mailing address) to each contact and to each person, company, or business that you contacted and who was referred to you by your contact.
Conclusion
Although there are numerous ways to search for a job, the method that has proved to be the most effective over the years is networking. In essence, networking is getting the word out to your acquaintances and to their acquaintances about you and the objective you are seeking with regard to finding a job. It may not be easy, but with persistence it can be successful.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=469
Vocation and income
Anyone who thinks that career decisions are not related to income expectations is very naïve. Perhaps there are a few dedicated individuals who know in their late teens or early twenties exactly what they want to do for the rest of their lives, but they are in the minority. The vast majority of people who make career decisions early in life are motivated by income expectations.
The mere fact that someone is motivated by income expectations is not necessarily wrong. After all, earning a living is a necessity of life. What is wrong is making career decisions based primarily on future income considerations. It has been proven that people who choose career fields strictly because of the income potential generally will become dissatisfied with their jobs and will feel miserably trapped in career fields where they have little or no real interest—like most Americans today. In essence, income expectations have often overruled God’s vocational plans, and career decisions are based on projected income—not satisfaction.
Career satisfaction
How do you weigh income against career satisfaction? Does one always have to be chosen over the other, or can we be satisfied with our careers as well as with the income our careers generate? It is easy to fall back on platitudes like “Do what makes you the happiest,” or “Do what comes naturally,” but is that always the most practical advice?
A large part of God’s plan for our lives is that we have fulfillment through how we earn a living. Our work is part of our witness (see Proverbs 22:29). If we are committed to serving God through our careers, He will direct us into the career that not only provides for our needs financially but also gives the most peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment, based on our natural abilities and talents. God has equipped each of us to do one thing better than anyone else. Therefore, we must find what God has equipped each of us to do best and then do it!
Identifying strengths
Satisfied workers are those who match their interests and abilities with their job choices. If you know what you are best equipped to do and prepare accordingly, you can do well in any field, because success is 90 percent perspiration and 10 percent inspiration. However, most people don’t know what they are best equipped to do. They need help to identify their strengths, talents, and abilities and to adopt a longer-term perspective about their futures.
Crown Financial Ministries’ Career Direct assessment is an excellent tool that helps people identify their strengths and weaknesses in four personality dimensions: interests, abilities, temperament, and work values. The Career Direct assessment program is grounded on several biblical principles: Each person is uniquely designed by God (see Psalm 139:13-14); Each person has been given unique talents for a purpose (see Romans 12:6-8); Each person must develop those talents for excellence (see Proverbs 22:29); and Work is a stage for a person’s higher calling (see Matthew 5:16).
After strengths and weaknesses have been identified, people can decide how they need to enhance their talents and skills and in what direction they should pursue their career choices, based on their strengths and abilities.
Enhancement of strengths
Recent surveys suggest that only about 10 percent of workers who attended college are actually working in their fields of study. That means that most college students have no idea what they are going to school for and have no ultimate goal. Many, in fact, will study subjects that are not their fields of strength, because those fields are where the current jobs are available.
A college education is not the answer for everyone; God’s direction is. Finding God’s career direction for your life first is much more important than obtaining education and then trying to find a career that can utilize the education you received. God’s career direction will always complement your strengths, talents, and abilities. Once you have a good idea of what God wants you to do with your life, you can secure any additional training and education needed to enhance your strengths and abilities. Many times vocational/technical institutions, specialized correspondence courses, or on-the-job instruction will provide the training needed, rather than college.
The needed training comes from college, a vocational institution, or specialized courses. You must guard against going into debt to obtain the training or accumulating debt while being trained. Too many students have so encumbered themselves while learning that they have become slaves to debt, instead of being available to be used for God’s purpose. Being debt free allows you to be available to be used as God directs. If God is in control of your career path, He will supply the funds necessary for you to get the training you need without going into debt. Trust Him and seek His provision.
Conclusion
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6). When we give our careers and vocations to the Lord and seek His direction, He not only will give peace and satisfaction regarding career choices, but also through that career He will provide for us financially. By relying on Him and trusting His directives we will always choose the right career for the right motives.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=584
The mere fact that someone is motivated by income expectations is not necessarily wrong. After all, earning a living is a necessity of life. What is wrong is making career decisions based primarily on future income considerations. It has been proven that people who choose career fields strictly because of the income potential generally will become dissatisfied with their jobs and will feel miserably trapped in career fields where they have little or no real interest—like most Americans today. In essence, income expectations have often overruled God’s vocational plans, and career decisions are based on projected income—not satisfaction.
Career satisfaction
How do you weigh income against career satisfaction? Does one always have to be chosen over the other, or can we be satisfied with our careers as well as with the income our careers generate? It is easy to fall back on platitudes like “Do what makes you the happiest,” or “Do what comes naturally,” but is that always the most practical advice?
A large part of God’s plan for our lives is that we have fulfillment through how we earn a living. Our work is part of our witness (see Proverbs 22:29). If we are committed to serving God through our careers, He will direct us into the career that not only provides for our needs financially but also gives the most peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment, based on our natural abilities and talents. God has equipped each of us to do one thing better than anyone else. Therefore, we must find what God has equipped each of us to do best and then do it!
Identifying strengths
Satisfied workers are those who match their interests and abilities with their job choices. If you know what you are best equipped to do and prepare accordingly, you can do well in any field, because success is 90 percent perspiration and 10 percent inspiration. However, most people don’t know what they are best equipped to do. They need help to identify their strengths, talents, and abilities and to adopt a longer-term perspective about their futures.
Crown Financial Ministries’ Career Direct assessment is an excellent tool that helps people identify their strengths and weaknesses in four personality dimensions: interests, abilities, temperament, and work values. The Career Direct assessment program is grounded on several biblical principles: Each person is uniquely designed by God (see Psalm 139:13-14); Each person has been given unique talents for a purpose (see Romans 12:6-8); Each person must develop those talents for excellence (see Proverbs 22:29); and Work is a stage for a person’s higher calling (see Matthew 5:16).
After strengths and weaknesses have been identified, people can decide how they need to enhance their talents and skills and in what direction they should pursue their career choices, based on their strengths and abilities.
Enhancement of strengths
Recent surveys suggest that only about 10 percent of workers who attended college are actually working in their fields of study. That means that most college students have no idea what they are going to school for and have no ultimate goal. Many, in fact, will study subjects that are not their fields of strength, because those fields are where the current jobs are available.
A college education is not the answer for everyone; God’s direction is. Finding God’s career direction for your life first is much more important than obtaining education and then trying to find a career that can utilize the education you received. God’s career direction will always complement your strengths, talents, and abilities. Once you have a good idea of what God wants you to do with your life, you can secure any additional training and education needed to enhance your strengths and abilities. Many times vocational/technical institutions, specialized correspondence courses, or on-the-job instruction will provide the training needed, rather than college.
The needed training comes from college, a vocational institution, or specialized courses. You must guard against going into debt to obtain the training or accumulating debt while being trained. Too many students have so encumbered themselves while learning that they have become slaves to debt, instead of being available to be used for God’s purpose. Being debt free allows you to be available to be used as God directs. If God is in control of your career path, He will supply the funds necessary for you to get the training you need without going into debt. Trust Him and seek His provision.
Conclusion
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6). When we give our careers and vocations to the Lord and seek His direction, He not only will give peace and satisfaction regarding career choices, but also through that career He will provide for us financially. By relying on Him and trusting His directives we will always choose the right career for the right motives.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=584
Career Planning: Is it ever too soon to begin?
It apparently is not ever too early to plan for a career, considering the fact that our modern-day public schools are often forcing teens to make key education and career decisions at increasingly earlier ages—sometimes as early as 6th or 7th grade. Are our youth learning a biblical model for education and career decision making? If someone asked you how to solve career issues from a biblical perspective, could you show them how? Unfortunately, many of us would have no idea where to start—no clear process has ever been taught to us at home, at school, or in the church. What are the steps you can follow to discover how God has designed you, what His calling is for your life, and what is the spiritual nature of work?
The World’s Perspective
According to recent studies, half of the men and women who went to work this morning feel they are in the wrong career field—not just that they feel they would like a different job, but they feel they are in the wrong career altogether! Another study indicated that 52 percent of those working in the information technology field said they would rather be doing something in the liberal arts. These statistics merely reflect the fact that people base their career decision making on faulty foundations—the world’s perspective of determining a career. Some of these include choosing a job because: it pays well, it’s the first/easiest you can get, it’s offered to you, you have friends who work for the company, you’ve done that kind of job before, the job sounds good or has a good title, your parents do/did that job, or it will fulfill your parents’ unfulfilled dreams. Do any of these sound familiar? Unfortunately, they are all too familiar and the results are always the same—stress, unfulfillment, and eventual burnout.
The Biblical Perspective
Our mission at Crown Financial Ministries is to share with you the good news that we don’t have to operate under the world’s perspective of work. As Christians, we should understand that God has ordained each of us to fill a special role in His service. We have a calling…Which He has prepared for us in advance…For which He has uniquely designed us…And through this work, we can serve others, honor Him, impact the world around us, and win others to Him.
Conclusion
It’s never too late to teach our children about the biblical principles of work and stewardship of talents. Everyone needs a model to follow. The question is, will it be God’s or the world’s? Our youth need to be brought up with the realization that they are uniquely created by God and need to look prayerfully to Him for what His will is for their lives. It makes no difference whether they become doctors, custodians, lawyers, or preachers. What matters is whether they are following God’s will for their lives.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=339
The World’s Perspective
According to recent studies, half of the men and women who went to work this morning feel they are in the wrong career field—not just that they feel they would like a different job, but they feel they are in the wrong career altogether! Another study indicated that 52 percent of those working in the information technology field said they would rather be doing something in the liberal arts. These statistics merely reflect the fact that people base their career decision making on faulty foundations—the world’s perspective of determining a career. Some of these include choosing a job because: it pays well, it’s the first/easiest you can get, it’s offered to you, you have friends who work for the company, you’ve done that kind of job before, the job sounds good or has a good title, your parents do/did that job, or it will fulfill your parents’ unfulfilled dreams. Do any of these sound familiar? Unfortunately, they are all too familiar and the results are always the same—stress, unfulfillment, and eventual burnout.
The Biblical Perspective
Our mission at Crown Financial Ministries is to share with you the good news that we don’t have to operate under the world’s perspective of work. As Christians, we should understand that God has ordained each of us to fill a special role in His service. We have a calling…Which He has prepared for us in advance…For which He has uniquely designed us…And through this work, we can serve others, honor Him, impact the world around us, and win others to Him.
Conclusion
It’s never too late to teach our children about the biblical principles of work and stewardship of talents. Everyone needs a model to follow. The question is, will it be God’s or the world’s? Our youth need to be brought up with the realization that they are uniquely created by God and need to look prayerfully to Him for what His will is for their lives. It makes no difference whether they become doctors, custodians, lawyers, or preachers. What matters is whether they are following God’s will for their lives.
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=339
Borrowing for education
Rising education costs
It has been projected by the U.S. Department of Education that by the year 2008 the cost for a four-year college education at a state school in America will range from approximately $35,000 to $40,000.
For private school, the costs very well could be doubled, tripled, or more.
If these projections are correct, and if parents intend to pay the entire cost for their children to attend a state institution, a family should begin to save as soon as possible.
Almost any family can set aside some amount of money, no matter how small. Whether a prospective student is in preschool or high school, it’s never too early or too late to start saving for college. Setting a savings goal and breaking it down into manageable installments is a good way to get started.
Paying for college expenses
The most economical way to attend college is also one of the most popular: have the children live at home, attend an inexpensive community college one or two years, and work part time to save money until they can transfer to a four-year school.
Although a proven method for funding college education is for the parent to pay half and the child to pay half, there are five other methods for financing college education that are common
with American families:
1. Children work and earn as they go. The majority of students who attend college or university work at least part time.
2. Parents and family help. Many parents pass along a portion of their inheritance by helping their children with education expenses.
3. Grants and scholarships. These are funds that do not have to be repaid.
4. GI Bill. The military offers substantial funding for education in exchange for military service.
5. Student loans. These should be the very last resort. Every other avenue of financing should be thoroughly explored before loans are considered.
It’s good for children to work and to help pay for their education. Proverbs 16:26 says, “A worker's appetite works for him.” If children are helping to earn their way, the education they are seeking often means a great deal more to them.
Working part time is a great way to assist with paying tuition and to have extra spending money. Many offices on a college campus hire students during the school year. In some cases the work requires that the student is awarded Federal Work Study (FWS). FWS is a federal student financial aid program that promotes part-time employment for qualified students.
One of the best places to start searching for a part-time job is at the school’s student employment office. The next place to search would be the classified sections of local and campus newspapers. Finally, asking friends and classmates if they are aware of job openings is often successful.
Grants and scholarships are the best type of college money, because they are usually tax free and do not have to be repaid. Both are offered by colleges, for-profit organizations, nonprofit organizations, private and personal resources, and government agencies. Federal and state grants usually are restricted to students who can prove that they have a great financial need.
Successfully locating, applying for, and receiving a scholarship requires time, energy, persistence, and patience. Beginning a search early will enable a student to learn about a variety of different scholarships well in advance of any application deadlines.
When beginning a scholarship and grant search, the student should begin at the local level. Check with school counselors’ offices, community organizations (Lions Club, Rotary Club), religious organizations, parents’ employers, labor organizations, or civic group organizations (scouting, YMCA). Next, investigate campus-based scholarships and grants before moving on into state and national offerings.
A thorough search of scholarship and grant opportunities includes research at a public or campus library, local and campus bookstores, and free Internet scholarship search sites.
Although fee-based scholarship search organizations should be avoided if at all possible, if all other efforts have been completely unsuccessful, the student might want to investigate one of the fee-based organizations.
A loan should be considered as an option only after all other financing possibilities have been exhausted and parents and children agree that a loan is necessary in order for them to attend college. They also should be certain that attending college will maximize their investment in the future and their growth intellectually, personally, and spiritually.
Even at that, they need to (1) borrow only what is absolutely needed for education expenses; (2) borrow for a short period of time; (3) pay back what was borrowed as quickly as possible; and (4) sacrifice as needed to get out of debt.
Conclusion
If it is truly God’s will for children to attend school, He will supply the funds—many times without having to borrow. It was Charles Finney, the great 19th century American revivalist who said, “God supplies where He guides. Where He does not supply, He does not guide.” This truth that was so real to Finney has not changed. It still holds true today.
The principle of borrowing does not depend on how or where the money is used. If money is borrowed, it must be repaid—usually with interest. Borrowing to attend school is certainly not a sin, but by borrowing, God’s plan for provision can very well be circumvented.
Many Christians finished school only to find that they are shackled with enormous debt that they incurred while getting their education. Sometimes it takes many years for them to get out of debt before they are able to go where God wants them to go and do what God wants them to do.
If attending a seminary or college is a need in your children’s lives, then God is able to provide the funds needed without having to borrow. “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus”
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=315
It has been projected by the U.S. Department of Education that by the year 2008 the cost for a four-year college education at a state school in America will range from approximately $35,000 to $40,000.
For private school, the costs very well could be doubled, tripled, or more.
If these projections are correct, and if parents intend to pay the entire cost for their children to attend a state institution, a family should begin to save as soon as possible.
Almost any family can set aside some amount of money, no matter how small. Whether a prospective student is in preschool or high school, it’s never too early or too late to start saving for college. Setting a savings goal and breaking it down into manageable installments is a good way to get started.
Paying for college expenses
The most economical way to attend college is also one of the most popular: have the children live at home, attend an inexpensive community college one or two years, and work part time to save money until they can transfer to a four-year school.
Although a proven method for funding college education is for the parent to pay half and the child to pay half, there are five other methods for financing college education that are common
with American families:
1. Children work and earn as they go. The majority of students who attend college or university work at least part time.
2. Parents and family help. Many parents pass along a portion of their inheritance by helping their children with education expenses.
3. Grants and scholarships. These are funds that do not have to be repaid.
4. GI Bill. The military offers substantial funding for education in exchange for military service.
5. Student loans. These should be the very last resort. Every other avenue of financing should be thoroughly explored before loans are considered.
It’s good for children to work and to help pay for their education. Proverbs 16:26 says, “A worker's appetite works for him.” If children are helping to earn their way, the education they are seeking often means a great deal more to them.
Working part time is a great way to assist with paying tuition and to have extra spending money. Many offices on a college campus hire students during the school year. In some cases the work requires that the student is awarded Federal Work Study (FWS). FWS is a federal student financial aid program that promotes part-time employment for qualified students.
One of the best places to start searching for a part-time job is at the school’s student employment office. The next place to search would be the classified sections of local and campus newspapers. Finally, asking friends and classmates if they are aware of job openings is often successful.
Grants and scholarships are the best type of college money, because they are usually tax free and do not have to be repaid. Both are offered by colleges, for-profit organizations, nonprofit organizations, private and personal resources, and government agencies. Federal and state grants usually are restricted to students who can prove that they have a great financial need.
Successfully locating, applying for, and receiving a scholarship requires time, energy, persistence, and patience. Beginning a search early will enable a student to learn about a variety of different scholarships well in advance of any application deadlines.
When beginning a scholarship and grant search, the student should begin at the local level. Check with school counselors’ offices, community organizations (Lions Club, Rotary Club), religious organizations, parents’ employers, labor organizations, or civic group organizations (scouting, YMCA). Next, investigate campus-based scholarships and grants before moving on into state and national offerings.
A thorough search of scholarship and grant opportunities includes research at a public or campus library, local and campus bookstores, and free Internet scholarship search sites.
Although fee-based scholarship search organizations should be avoided if at all possible, if all other efforts have been completely unsuccessful, the student might want to investigate one of the fee-based organizations.
A loan should be considered as an option only after all other financing possibilities have been exhausted and parents and children agree that a loan is necessary in order for them to attend college. They also should be certain that attending college will maximize their investment in the future and their growth intellectually, personally, and spiritually.
Even at that, they need to (1) borrow only what is absolutely needed for education expenses; (2) borrow for a short period of time; (3) pay back what was borrowed as quickly as possible; and (4) sacrifice as needed to get out of debt.
Conclusion
If it is truly God’s will for children to attend school, He will supply the funds—many times without having to borrow. It was Charles Finney, the great 19th century American revivalist who said, “God supplies where He guides. Where He does not supply, He does not guide.” This truth that was so real to Finney has not changed. It still holds true today.
The principle of borrowing does not depend on how or where the money is used. If money is borrowed, it must be repaid—usually with interest. Borrowing to attend school is certainly not a sin, but by borrowing, God’s plan for provision can very well be circumvented.
Many Christians finished school only to find that they are shackled with enormous debt that they incurred while getting their education. Sometimes it takes many years for them to get out of debt before they are able to go where God wants them to go and do what God wants them to do.
If attending a seminary or college is a need in your children’s lives, then God is able to provide the funds needed without having to borrow. “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus”
http://www1.crown.org/library/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=315
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