Have you ever had a friend that claimed to be a model, but you suspected that he or she really wasn’t one? She may have had “model” listed as her job on Facebook, or he may have had dozens of glamour-shots posted on ModelMayhem.com, but you never saw an actual ad campaign or commercial?

Well, your hunch was probably correct, because according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are only 1,200 people in the U.S. who are actually employed as models.

The fact that there are so few working models isn’t all that surprising – it’s a pretty elite industry. What is surprising, though, is how many “normal” jobs are just as hard to break into – because they are either hyper-specialized, they require lots of training, or there just aren’t many jobs available. According to the BLS, these 18 jobs are the least common in America.

1. Astronomers: 1,840
Average annual salary: $93,340

2. Dredge operators: 1,720
Average annual salary: $36,580

3. Model makers, wood: 1,660
Average annual salary: $28,974

4. Timing device assemblers and adjusters: 1,560
Average annual salary: $32,300

5. Forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists: 1,530
Average annual salary: $40,200

6. Industrial-organizational psychologists: 1,420
Average annual salary: $114,040

7. Animal breeders: 1,380
Average annual salary: $35,620

8. Geographers: 1,300
Average annual salary: $72,890

9. Patternmakers, wood: 1,240
Average annual salary: $40,700

10. Locomotive firers: 1,130
Average annual salary: $47,040

11. Models: 1,020
Average annual salary: $42,560

12. Mathematical technicians: 960
Average annual salary: $49,170

13. Radio operators: 920
Average annual salary: $44,510

14. Farm labor contractors: 830
Average annual salary: $35,890

15. Fishers and related fishing workers: 700
Average annual salary: $27,880

16. Fabric menders, except garment: 690
Average annual salary: $27,370

17. Prosthodontists: 670
Average annual salary: $139,620

18. Cooks, private household: 400
Average annual salary: $31,110

What do you think about this list? Is it surprising? Let us know in the comments section.

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There have been signs of economic growth this month. Earlier in the month we learned that as of December 2011, the national jobless rate was at 8.5 percent, a rate that’s continued to trend down since February 2009.

Yet not all states are created equal when it comes to economic recovery. Some states weathered the recession better than others. And while most states have seen a decline in unemployment post-recession, others have dealt with fluctuating jobless rates. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ recent breakdown of regional and state unemployment numbers for December 2011, the most recent figures available, “Twenty-four states reported jobless rates significantly lower than the U.S. figure of 8.5 percent, eight states and the District of Columbia had measurably higher rates, and 18 states had rates that were not appreciably different from that of the nation.”

In taking a closer look at which states are on the road to recovery and which ones are still hitting speed bumps, we first reviewed each state’s unemployment rates as of December 2011. Also examined were trends in joblessness — whether it’s been on the decline and the rate in which it’s declining — and other factors such as foreclosures and household income. Here’s a look at some of the best and worst states for job seekers.

Best state unemployment rates*

1. North Dakota
Why: During the recession, North Dakota’s unemployment rate peaked at 4.3 percent in 2009, a rate that was still significantly lower than the national average. The rate hasn’t gone above 4 percent since April 2010.
Unemployment rate: 3.3 percent

2. Nebraska
Why: Nebraska was the state with the second lowest unemployment rate in December 2011, at 4.1 percent. It also experienced statistically significant employment changes from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 13,100.
Unemployment rate: 4.1 percent

3. South Dakota
Why: South Dakota had one of the lowest pre-recession unemployment rates in the country — just 2.8 percent in December 2007. Its current jobless rate is still well under the national average. In addition, it saw a statistically significant employment change from November to December 2011, with a job gain of 4,600.
Unemployment rate: 4.2 percent

4. New Hampshire
Why: New Hampshire’s unemployment rate is 3.4 percent lower than the national average. What’s more, according to statistics released by the U.S. Census Bureau, New Hampshire has the highest median household income in the U.S., at $66,303**.
Unemployment rate: 5.1 percent

5. Vermont
Why: Vermont’s December 2011 unemployment rate was 5.1 percent, and it has experienced a statistically significant year-over-year unemployment rate change of -0.7 percent. It also ranks in the top 15 in median household income, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Unemployment rate: 5.1 percent

6. Iowa
Why: Iowa’s unemployment rate of 5.6 percent is at its lowest level since June 2009. According to the state, Iowa has added 13,300 total jobs compared to a year ago.
Unemployment rate: 5.6 percent

7. Minnesota
Why: This Midwest state has experienced statistically significant year-over-year employment changes from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 26,300. Its current unemployment rate is the lowest it’s been since September 2008.
Unemployment rate: 5.7 percent

8. Wyoming
Why: After hitting its unemployment rate peak at 7.7 percent in late 2009, the rate has continued to trend downward and is currently 2.7 percent lower than the national average. Additionally, Wyoming has the lowest unemployment rate in the Western region.
Unemployment rate: 5.8 percent

9. Utah
Why: Utah saw statistically significant employment changes from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 36,000.
Unemployment rate: 6 percent

10. Oklahoma
Why: Although Oklahoma’s unemployment rate has hovered at 6.1 percent since October 2011, it did have a statistically significant employment change year-over-year from December 2010 to December 2011, with a job gain of 41,600.
Unemployment rate: 6.1 percent

Worst state unemployment rates

1. Nevada
Why: Nevada has the worst unemployment rate in the country, at 12.6 percent. It also saw a statistically significant employment change of -9,800 from November to December 2011. To rub salt in the wound, Nevada topped RealtyTrac’s list of state foreclosure rates in 2010.
Unemployment rate: 12.6 percent

2. California
Why: While California’s unemployment rate did decrease by 0.2 percent from November to December 2011, its rate of 11.1 percent is still 2.6 percentage points higher than the national rate. According to RealtyTrac, California’s December 2011 foreclosure rate was one of the highest in the nation.
Unemployment rate: 11.1 percent

3. Rhode Island
Why: Rhode Island has the worst unemployment rate in New England. It’s also one of the three states where unemployment increased in December.
Unemployment rate: 10.8 percent

4. Mississippi
Why: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Mississippi has the lowest median household income, at $36,850. Its unemployment rate also experienced an increase from a year prior.
Unemployment rate: 10.4 percent

5. District of Columbia
Why: While the District of Columbia isn’t a state, it’s still worth including on the list given its high unemployment rate. Its unemployment rate actually increased from a year earlier, going from 9.6 percent in December 2010 to 10.4 percent in December 2011.
Unemployment rate: 10.4 percent

6. North Carolina
Why: North Carolina has the highest unemployment rate in the South Atlantic, excluding the District of Columbia. Its December 2011 unemployment rate of 9.9 percent is 1.4 percent above the U.S. average.
Unemployment rate: 9.9 percent

7. Florida
Why: While Florida’s unemployment rate is on the decline, it’s still the seventh highest unemployment rate in the country. Plus, it had one of the highest 2010 foreclosure rates, according to RealtyTrac.
Unemployment rate: 9.9 percent

8. Illinois
Why: According to Business Insider, Illinois is one of the top 10 states with the most foreclosures in 2010, with 151,304 foreclosures last year.
Unemployment rate: 9.8 percent

9. Georgia
Why: While the state’s unemployment rate was down for the third consecutive month, the state labor department disclosed that metro Atlanta’s unemployment rate rose to 9.4 percent in December from 9.2 percent in November. Georgia also experienced the third-largest over-the-year percentage decrease in employment of -0.4 percent.
Unemployment rate: 9.7 percent

10. South Carolina
Why: South Carolina’s median household income of $42,059 is the seventh lowest in the nation, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Its unemployment rate hasn’t been below 9 percent in three years.
Unemployment rate: 9.5 percent

*Unless otherwise noted, data was pulled from the BLS. 

**Median household income (In 2010 Inflation-adjusted dollars) by state ranked from highest to lowest Using three-year average:  2008-2010.

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All eyes were on President Obama last night as he delivered what was potentially his final State of the Union address. One of the central issues discussed in his speech? Jobs. And rightly so.

Though Obama cited recent improvements in the job market – the country has regained more than 3 million jobs in the last 22 months – it’s also clear that we still have a ways to go. After all, 3 million jobs in 22 months comes out to roughly 136,000 jobs per month. Economists believe it will take the addition of at least 250,000 jobs per month to begin bringing unemployment back to pre-recession levels.

Luckily, the President announced a number of viable measures that, if carried out as planned, will both create new jobs, and retrain workers for the jobs that are available. Here, a recap of the employment-related actions announced last night, and why they’re important to American workers.

1. The goal: Return outsourced jobs to the U.S.    

The President said:“Tonight, my message to business leaders is simple: Ask yourselves what you can do to bring jobs back to your country, and your country will do everything we can to help you succeed … Right now, companies get tax breaks for moving jobs and profits overseas. Meanwhile, companies that choose to stay in America get hit with one of the highest tax rates in the world. It makes no sense, and everyone knows it … My message is simple. It’s time to stop rewarding businesses that ship jobs overseas, and start rewarding companies that create jobs right here in America.”

Why it’s important: In April 2011, the Wall Street Journal researched the outsourcing practices of some of the top corporations in the U.S., and found that, while the companies had cut more than 2.9 million jobs stateside since 2000, they’d added 2.4 million jobs overseas in the same time period.

2. The goal: Reskill American workers for in-demand jobs.

The President said: “[I hear] from many business leaders who want to hire in the United States but can’t find workers with the right skills. Growing industries in science and technology have twice as many openings as we have workers who can do the job. Think about that — openings at a time when millions of Americans are looking for work. Join me in a national commitment to train two million Americans with skills that will lead directly to a job … You need to give more community colleges the resources they need to become community career centers — places that teach people skills that local businesses are looking for right now, from data management to high-tech manufacturing.”

Why it’s important: According to CareerBuilder’s 2012 hiring forecast, which was based on a survey of more than 3,000 hiring managers, 26 percent of employers reported that they currently had job openings for which they could not find qualified workers. The areas they had the most trouble filling? High-skills jobs like IT and engineering. Retraining job seekers for the positions that employers need to fill is the surest way to close the skills gap, and make a dent in the unemployment rate.

3. The goal: Encourage small business growth.

The President said: “Innovation is what America has always been about. Most new jobs are created in start-ups and small businesses. So let’s pass an agenda that helps them succeed. Tear down regulations that prevent aspiring entrepreneurs from getting the financing to grow. Expand tax relief to small businesses that are raising wages and creating good jobs.”

Why it’s important: As Obama pointed out, most jobs are created by small businesses. According to the Small Business Administration, “Small firms accounted for 65 percent (or 9.8 million) of the 15 million net new jobs created between 1993 and 2009.” It’s imperative for the job market, then, that small businesses have access to the resources they need to expand, and feel secure enough to do so.  

Although it remains to be seen how well, and how quickly, these plans will take form, we think it’s reassuring to hear the Administration seems to be on a logical and sustainable path towards lowering the unemployment rate. What do you think?  

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics just released data on the December 2011 regional and state employment and unemployment rates. There’s good news to report: Regional and state unemployment rates were slightly lower in December, with 37 states and the District of Columbia recording unemployment rate decreases.

Year over year, the news was also bright, with 46 states registering unemployment rate decreases from a year prior.

With the national jobless rate continuing to trend down, it will be interesting to see how the topic is tackled during President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address. We’ll be doing a follow-up post on his speech, so be sure to check that out. In the meantime, here’s our list of 10 companies hiring this week.

1. American Diabetes Association
Industry: Nonprofit
Sample job titles: Manager – fundraising and special events, director – programs, associate manager – community initiatives

2. Astellas Pharma US, Inc.
Industry: Pharmaceutical, health care
Sample job titles: Senior medical director, regional sales manager, pharmaceutical sales, associate director, senior scientist

3. Greatwide Logistics
Industry: Transportation
Sample job titles: CDL A driver, carrier procurement/carrier management manager, logistics/transportation supervisor, call center reps — fleet logistics/part-time

4. Mansfield Oil Company
Industry: Oil and gas
Sample job titles: LTL logistics analyst, business development specialist – MGES, operations manager

5. Mattress Firm, Inc.
Industry: Retail
Sample job titles: Sales manager in training, sales associate, store manager, assistant store manager, operations manager, warehouse associates

6. Portfolio Recovery Associates
Industry: Credit/loan/collections
Sample job titles: Acquisitions manager, help desk analyst, account representative — collections, business analyst

7. Smith Transport
Industry: Transportation
Sample job titles: Class A CDL truck drivers

8. Tara Therapy
Industry: Health care
Sample job titles: Physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech-language pathologist, physical therapist assistant, certified occupational therapy assistant

9. Town Sports International (New York Sports Club, Boston Sports Club, Philadelphia Sports Club, Washington Sports Club)
Industry: Fitness
Sample job titles: Personal trainers, membership sales consultants, fitness managers, general managers, assistant general managers

10. Visium Resources
Industry: IT/engineering
Sample job titles: Architectural designer, C++/embedded Linux developer

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In past posts, we’ve offered up best practices for using social media in your job search. That’s because more and more recruiters and hiring managers are utilizing social networks to learn about and even contact potential candidates.

While most know how to lock down their profiles through privacy settings on sites like Facebook and Twitter, LinkedIn is a little different. The point there being that the information you’re putting on the site is critical and relevant to your job search – therefore your picture should also be professional and relevant to your job search. Even with your career transparency on LinkedIn, all three sites (or however many you may be using), your profile picture is the one constant that’s nearly always visible.

“Your image is conveyed through your photograph, and it’s part of the first impression you make on others,” says Barbara Pachter, a business communications and etiquette expert who’s authored numerous books on the topic of social media professionalism. “You want to post a photograph that is professionally appropriate. You want to look like a credible, approachable person, not like you just came from the beach.”

The beach would be a treat, honestly. Some of the photos I see? For shame, people, for shame I say. So let’s go through some examples of what you should and shouldn’t be doing in your profile picture.

1. Use a head shot. This means that it should be head and shoulders and highlights your face, not some weird photo from a party.

2. Your photo should be flattering. Who wouldn’t want to portray himself in the best light? However, this doesn’t mean you should use butter on the lens to give that soft glamour-shot style effect.

This example is neither a good head shot nor is it flattering; also, it should be in color.
Leave your artsy photos for the gallery.

3. Your face is the focus, not the background. Again, this is a headshot. That means you posing near the Great Wall is probably not the best choice for a main picture. Is it cool? Absolutely. Professional? Not unless you’re an ancient bricklayer. Keep your face in focus too – there’s nothing worse than a blurry photo. Well…

Yep, your face is typically important. Biceps, deltoids and other body parts should be left unseen.

4. Be fully-clothed. The amount of people I’ve seen without clothes or who post images of others sans clothing is apalling. Remember, your profile is seen by everyone, so clean up your act and keep the more risqué photos for “Missed Connections.”

5. Don’t make any funny faces. Patcher says, “If you are frowning or scowling, why would someone want to hire or work with you?” This is equally true for those who try to use more suggestive pictures. What kind of work would an employer assume you’re interested in? So while this ties in with No. 4, I still see photos of people with clothes on who are making weird goofy faces. A smile will work nicely thank you.

6. Keep your photo current. Make sure your photo actually looks like you. Stop using a photo that you love from 5+ years ago. Again, not only is this off-putting, but if people meet you and realize you’re being deceptive, why would they trust you as an employee?

I was less wrinkled and much thinner then. But still not a professional photo – I mean, look at that shirt.

7. Find a photographer. Whether you pay or find a friend or student to take your photo, it’ll be better than your mirrored self-portrait with your phone or a webcam shot. Trust me, the effort in having a professional shot will be worth the trouble in setting it up:

See how nice a professional headshot can be, even if it’s taken by a photographer friend?

The moral of the story is this: If your account is locked down, put up any drunken/Halloween/inappropriate photos you want in your “Shameful Moments” gallery. But keep your profile image respectable, even if you are not using it as part of your job search. Google and other search engines will pull in your profile images when recruiters or managers search your social profiles (especially Google+).

Please note all the photos above are of me, even though I so wanted to put certain people on blast for their awful photos. You know who you are.

Tell me about the worst profile picture you have ever seen or if you’ve ever judged a candidate based on their profile picture in social media!

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The hug. It’s a simple gesture that can make a happy situation happier or help someone overcome with sadness feel a little better. Studies have shown that hugs can actually make a difference in one’s health; research out of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill found that a hug can lower blood pressure and reduce the harmful physical effects of stress.

Hugs are thought to be so beneficial, there’s even a day dedicated to celebrating the gift of a hug. Jan. 21 has been deemed “National Hugging Day,” and according to the organizer’s website, the day was “created for family and friends to hug often and freely with one another.”

Yet when it comes to hugging in the workplace, the act may become less of a kind gesture and more of a liability. According to a survey by staffing agency The Creative Group, seven in 10 executives interviewed said embracing co-workers in a business setting is inappropriate.

“The thing about hugging in the workplace is that if it makes anyone uncomfortable, there can be legal ramifications,” says Donna Flagg, workplace communications expert and author of, “Surviving Dreaded Conversations.” “And because of hostile work environment and sexual harassment suits, innocent hugging is always vulnerable to being construed as something else — that is, something not so innocent.”

So is hugging a co-worker or showing any signs of physical affection ever acceptable? Or is it better to avoid any gesture that could be considered a personal-space invasion? While opinions may differ, here are some things to think about when going in for an office hug:

Consider where you work
To determine if hugs are tolerated in your workplace, first think about where you work. The type of company it is and the culture it promotes may give you some clues as to whether signs of affection would be encouraged. Is your company more by-the-book or is it laid back in its methods or practices? Does the company culture encourage working in teams and being open to others, or is it more of an independent, cut-throat, every-man-for-himself environment?

In addition, the type of field you work in can make a difference. If you work in a more corporate environment, affection may be frowned upon. But some fields — health care for instance — may be more open to hugging, and the act may even be part of the job.

“In my world, there are times when hugging is the most appropriate thing to do,” says Dr. Diane Radford, a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer. “There are times when I interact with patients that giving or receiving a hug is part of the whole spectrum of communication … A hug can be a reassuring way of indicating they will be OK, but I’m there if they need me. One has to be astute and know when a hug is the right thing to do. In my workplace, it often is the right thing to do.”

Take cues from others
It’s also important to keep in mind that everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to public displays of affection, especially with people who aren’t family or close friends. While you may love giving hugs, they may make your cube mate uncomfortable.

“Recognizing that not everyone shares the same personal-boundary line is essential to maintaining a pleasant and professional workplace environment,” says Roshini Rajkumar, national speaker and communication/image expert.

“Remember that personal touch is not about intention, but rather, how it is perceived by the person receiving the touch. If they are uncomfortable, then the touch is wrong. Be aware of co-workers’ personal boundaries before entering into a ‘physical relationship’ with them, no matter how passive or limited the touch.”

Respect cultural differences
Someone’s comfort level for workplace affection may be influenced by their age, upbringing or cultural background. While some cultures embrace hugging, others show respect or thanks in other ways, so it’s important to keep such differences in mind.

Also consider one’s gender and role within the company. Hugging someone of another gender could more easily be misconstrued than hugging someone of the same sex. There may be sensitivities around hugging a boss or subordinate but not necessarily around hugging a peer.

“Keep in mind the recipient’s gender and ethnicity,” Rajkumar says. “Different cultures have different boundaries…Generations have different expectations as well. Today’s younger generation is more touchy-feely, while the older generation is more formal.”

Watch how you hug
There are different ways you can hug someone, and they can mean different things. Hugging from the front or back may be awkward, but a casual side hug could appear less threatening and personal.

“A big smothering bear hug may not be appropriate, but the handshake and one arm around the shoulder hug — which tends to be more of a hit-and-run type of hug — could work fine,” says Regina Barr, founder and CEO of Red Ladder Inc., a consulting, executive coaching and speaking company. “The latter hug might be more comfortable for folks in the workplace, because it’s a hybrid hug.”

If in doubt, handshake it out
“If you work in a friendly/casual environment, you may be able to substitute hugging for handshaking, but when in doubt, don’t hug,” Rajkumar suggests. “It’s usually best to err on the side of caution when it comes to physical displays of affection. Consider a big smile and enthusiastically clasping your hands together while you express gratitude verbally as an alternative.” Rajkumar also recommends high fives or shoulder claps as some other ways to communicate physically without overstepping.

While there’s no right answer to whether or not hugging in the workplace is appropriate, there’s still no argument that a good hug can make someone’s day a little brighter. Just make sure it’s warranted and welcomed.

Do you think hugs or other signs of affection are acceptable in the workplace? Or do you think they are inappropriate? Tell us in the comments section below.  

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Whether you plan your life around your horoscope (“The sun is in my commitment house! I am SO finding love this month”), or you think the Zodiac is utter nonsense; you’re probably still somewhat familiar with your Western Zodiac sign. You know whether you’re a Scorpio or an Aries, and you might even be familiar with the personality traits, relationship patterns and career preferences your sign predisposes you to.

Chances are, though, you’re a lot less familiar with Chinese astrology.

The Chinese Zodiac makes the same sort of generalities and predictions as the Western Zodiac, but is based on the year you were born in instead of the month. With the Chinese New Year happening on January 23 (welcome, year of the dragon!), we thought it’d be interesting to see what astrology has to say about the career and work preferences of each of the 12 signs in the Chinese Zodiac.

“Sometimes in choosing a career we just don’t know where to start,” says Donna Stellhorn, an astrologer and author of “2012: Year of the Water Dragon.” “Many people in the world look to their Chinese Zodiac sign to find their talents, strengths and weaknesses. And this helps guide them in their career choices.”  

What does your sign say about your career choices? Stellhorn weighs in, below.

Rat (1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)
Stellhorn says: “Rats are better suited to highly-active jobs, where making more effort and taking chances yields higher material rewards. Owning their own business or doing outside sales — especially of luxury items — is great for them. Rats should avoid jobs that isolate them or that are routine (things like night watchman, toll booth operator, etc.). On the other hand, they should avoid jobs where gambling is a main focus (such as working in a casino) because they may end up giving their paycheck back to the house.”
Personality traits*: Imaginative, problem solver, magnetic, observant, selfish, motivated by money and status.
Other possible job matches*: Manager, counselor, lawyer, broadcaster, writer 

Ox (1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)
Stellhorn says: “The ox is better suited to jobs where they can bring in a good income and still work at home. They also excel at jobs that have a steady amount of work throughout the day (like medical transcription, editor/writer). They should avoid jobs that call for cutting-edge technical knowledge (Ox likes to wait and see before jumping into a new trend), or jobs that require a lot of travel.”
Personality traits: Determined, reliable, detail-oriented, hardworking, loyal
Other possible job matches: Mechanic,  painter, banker, real estate agent

Tiger (1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)
Stellhorn says: “Tigers can be both territorial and restless. They need periods of intense action and then quiet reflection. They do well in emergency rooms or as firefighters. They also make good musicians who put all their intensity into their live shows, or event planners who pull off parties without a hitch.”
Personality traits: Competitive, confident, good leader, likeable, adventurous, hasty
Other possible job matches: Writer, pilot, ad sales, office manager

Rabbit (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011)
Stellhorn says: “Rabbits are patient and even-tempered. They thrive in calm workplaces where there is interaction with co-workers and customers. And Rabbits have an eye for value so they do well in jewelry sales, clothing design and real estate. They make good tour guides.”
Personality traits: Outgoing, sincere, compassionate, avoids confrontation
Other possible job matches: Public relations, writer, therapist, teacher

Dragon (1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012)
Stellhorn says: “Dragons need space to grow and gain recognition. They can’t be trapped in closed-in cubicles without breathing fire. They understand trends and see the direction to take to be successful. They do well as pilots. They excel in advertising and television. They also enjoy careers where they can be outside, like environmental researcher or hiking guide, for example.”
Personality traits: Ambitious, free-spirited, innovative, enthusiastic (sometimes overly so), independent, can be tactless
Other possible job matches: Architect, sales representative, manager, lawyer

Snake (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013)
Stellhorn says: “Snakes are the wisest but they often keep their opinions to themselves. Their emotions are under the surface and they guard their privacy. They make good writers, artists and composers. They also are excellent at scientific and medical research.”
Personality traits: Smart, intuitive, decisive, easily bored
Other possible job matches: Sociologist, analyst, investigator, dietician

Horse (1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, and 2014)
Stellhorn says: “Horses love their freedom. They are social yet competitive (though they are always a good sport if they lose). Horses are usually very talented at something. They do well in careers that deal with cars, roads and bridges. They also make good lawyers. And they often thrive if their career can include sports.”
Personality traits: Energetic, attention-seeking, team-oriented, adventurous, effective communicator
Other possible job matches: Journalist, publicist, bartender, librarian

Ram (1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
Stellhorn says: “Rams are sensitive and diplomatic. They are generally homebodies and like to surround themselves with like-minded people. They make good scientists and programmers. They do well in medical fields. They also often are the actors who really become the character they are playing.”
Personality traits: Team-player, creative, calm, intelligent, sensitive
Other possible job matches: Editor, illustrator, pediatrician

Monkey (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016)
Stellhorn says: “Monkeys are filled with energy and like to do multiple things at once. They get nervous or bored if things move too slowly. Monkeys are very intelligent and so they have a lot of career choices. They really thrive when they have a mentor, someone they can copy. They’ll do well in high-energy careers as a restaurant manager, building contractor or stock broker. They also do well in public relations and advertising.”
Personality traits: Intellectual, quick-witted, curious, adaptable, playful
Other possible job matches: Film director, trader, engineer, jeweler

Rooster (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017)
Stellhorn says: “Roosters are always busy. They throw great parties and are always available to give their friends a hand. Because they are so in-tune to the energy of the people around them they do best in social careers, like customer service, entertainment and teaching. But they need rewards for their service too, so job titles like doctor or school principal fit well.”
Personality traits: Motivated, honest, confident (sometimes overconfident), hard-working, organized
Other possible job matches: Bookkeeper, dentist, insurance agent

Dog (1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018)
Stellhorn says: “Dogs are loyal and hardworking. They are resourceful and very inventive especially when challenged. They are good at careers related to sports, food service and hospitality management. They work well in teams and in project oriented businesses, like software development (especially gaming software).”
Personality traits: Loyal, kind, adaptable, stubborn, strong morals
Other possible job matches: Nurse, police officer, scientist, interior designer

Pig (1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019)
Stellhorn says: “Pigs are caring and take their responsibilities seriously. They love their homes and their families and don’t like to be away from them. For Pigs, home-based businesses can thrive. They have a good eye for design and do well in the advertising, clothing and accessories industries. They also have a talent for cooking so they make good caterers.”
Personality traits: Diligent, sincere, creative, detail-oriented
Possible job matches: Veterinarian, doctor, retail

*Personality trait and additional job match information from ChineseZodiac.com.

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I consider myself a true Midwestern girl, having never lived in another region of the country. So there have been numerous times when I’ve had the itch to shake things up and move somewhere else, even if just for a few years.   

Relocating to another city or state can present some challenges, but it also provides opportunities, especially for job seekers continuing to hit dead ends in their current job market. In fact, a recent CareerBuilder study found that 44 percent of workers would be willing to relocate for a career opportunity. And employers are willing to help, especially those that are struggling to find workers to fill skilled positions. Thirty-two percent of employers surveyed said they would be willing to pay to relocate new employees in 2012.

The top areas for which employers are most likely to pay

For those workers willing to consider making a move, they now have an easier way to find markets with the greatest demand for their skills and assess costs of moving to and living in a particular area. CareerBuilder just launched a new website, CareerRelocate.com, where workers can:

• Run a simple keyword or category search and view a map detailing where the most and fewest opportunities are for their line of work.
• View actual relocation opportunities in different cities.
• Learn what they would need to earn in order to maintain their current standard of living in another city.
• Research homes, property values, mortgage quotes, moving and storage costs.
• Tap into articles and advice on relocating and hiring trends.

Do workers who’ve relocated in the past regret it, or are they glad they made the move?

Now that I’m settled in Chicago, I don’t foresee myself relocating any time soon. But for job seekers who do have that itch, it’s good to know sites like CareerRelocate exist to help take some of the stress out of such a life- and career-changing move. 

Check out the full infographic on relocation.

For more on relocating, including stories from workers who’ve made a move for their career, see: True story: I relocated for a job.

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The offer letter hits your email or your desk. Panic washes over you. You sit for a moment and hope that the grass will truly be greener on the other side of the fence and that the new job will more than deliver on all the things you want to get out of it.

For many of us, deciding to leave an old job and moving on to a new one can be terrifying. Despite doing the homework on the company, many times you’re still walking into a lot of unknowns. What can look good on paper can be a pain in real life.

While we’ve covered the topic of things to consider when looking for a new job, I wanted to break it down a bit more on the specific things to think about when deciding whether to accept the offer, begin negotiating or stick it out in your current position.

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I’m a big fan of Ricky Gervais. I like his sarcastic, biting humor, and I thoroughly enjoy watching both the British version of “The Office” and its U.S. spin off. Yet even I found myself turning red, unable to look directly at the TV, as he offended one A-list celebrity after another during last year’s Golden Globe awards.

So I was pretty surprised to learn that, for the third year in a row, he was picked to be the award show’s host. I guess they say the third time’s a charm, right?

What’s interesting is that after receiving mixed reviews for his hosting chops in 2010, he vowed never to do it again. After the controversy surrounding last year’s run, he swore he was done with the show for good. Yet something keeps pulling him back in again and again.

Gervais recently sat down with Matt Lauer of the “Today” show to talk about his decision to step up to the Golden Globes plate once more. In the interview, which was broken up into two segments, he confessed that after people said he’d never be invited back, it became a challenge to him to prove them wrong.

This got us thinking about how his situation could apply to a “real” job. It’s not altogether uncommon for someone to leave a job for a new one, only to find himself eventually back at his old job. Perhaps his new role wasn’t what it was cracked up to be. Or he followed a manager, only to have that person leave shortly after. Maybe it’s because he missed the comfort and security of his old gig.

Whatever the reasons, there’s no doubt that new jobs can be tough, regardless of whether you’re staying in your current field. You don’t know anyone; you have to learn about new clients, processes and responsibilities; and you have to prove yourself all over again. It’s no fun feeling like you don’t know what’s going on, and during particularly trying times, it’s easy to look at the time spent at your old company with rose-colored glasses.

But going back to a past position likely won’t solve your work-related problems and if anything, only provides a short-term solution. Chances are you’ll end up right back where you started — unhappy and wanting to escape.

“I used to work for [a fitness company] and left because I thought I had found a better opportunity,” says Morgan B., a social media specialist. “Soon I felt overwhelmed [at the new job] and began second-guessing myself and wanted to return to what I knew best. But I returned to a whole new [company]; the old one I used to work at had already filled my position, so it wasn’t the same at all. The procedures were kind of the same, but it didn’t make me happy at all.”

So how do you avoid a situation like Morgan’s? Lynne Sarikas, executive director of the MBA Career Center at Northeastern University in Boston, offers the following key considerations if you’re unhappy at your current job or second-guessing your move to a new one:

• Conduct an honest assessment: You need to honestly assess your personal strengths and weaknesses. Be honest about what skills you possess and what skills are needed in the roles you hope to pursue. Identify opportunities to develop the missing or weaker skills. Be very honest about what you like and dislike about your current employer and your current role. 
• Have a plan: While it can be tempting to quit in a moment of anger or frustration, it is rarely a good decision. Be thoughtful about what you are looking for in a new opportunity and a new company. Define a plan to do research on the industry and key companies. Network to learn more about the companies and the positions that interest you. 
• Avoid “buyer’s remorse”: Carefully consider what is truly bothering you about your current role. Is it the day-to-day work? Your co-workers? Your boss? The company? Its products or ethics? Knowing what the real issue is can help you identify possible solutions. Maybe a move to another group internally would be much more rewarding and would retain your years of service. Don’t rush to abandon ship without analyzing the issue and the possible solutions.
• Remember the grass isn’t always greener: All companies have some issues, and not all managers are perfect. Don’t be so anxious to make a change that you jump from the frying pan into the fire. Do your research and networking to learn as much as you can about the other company to make an informed decision. Don’t leave your current company without assessing the problem.
• Don’t make hasty decisions: Don’t jump to quick judgment. If there are issues with the current job, talk to your current manager to see if any changes are possible. Utilize human resources to share your concerns. Be sure you have a plan for moving forward before making a hasty decision you may regret.

Sarikas also says that bouncing back and forth between jobs may give off a bad impression and put your loyalty into question. “[They may be thinking that] if you were ready to leave once, who says you won’t do it again … You need to consider the potential negative impact on your career in doing this.”

So before jumping ship and running back to your old job, make sure you’ve given your current position a fair chance and you’re leaving — and going back — for the right reasons.

And as for Gervais, he insists this is the last time he’ll host the Golden Globes, at least for a while.

We’ll see you again in 2013, Ricky.

Have you returned to an old job and regretted it? Or did you have a better experience the second-time around? Tell us about it in the comments section.

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