Arlington, VA: I am making a career change into the Internet-New Media industry. I want to identify IT headhunters in Northern Virginia but I am having trouble finding them. How do I get in touch with these people?

Lisa King: Here's a list of recruiters that has been posted on the DC Web Women list. It is not in any particular order and is by no means exhaustive, but will give you a place to start.

Pepetual Mitchell/Technical Recruiter
Kforce.com formerly Romac International
8045 Leesburg Pike Suite 200
Vienna, Va 22182
Phone: (703) 342-3144
Fax: (703) 342-3197
Email: pmitchell@kforce.com

Nancy Allen Associates
703.247.4222

Ask for Polly Frye or Lisa Desiderio

Cary Lee
301-229-4200

Kwanza Graham
Recruiter
Aquent Partners
1730 K Street | Suite 1102 | Washington, D.C. 20006
Tel. 202.293.4987 | Fax. 202.293.9025
Visit us at: www.aquent.com
The technical, web, and creative staffing solution for freelance and
permanent placement

I work with another
search firm that specializes in placing Creative Director, Art Directors, Ad
agency staff, etc that might want to take a look.
nnie H. Kim
301.217.9969 - direct
703.622.6990 - cell
801.749.8899 - eFax
annie@jskconsult.com - email


Valli Swerdlow, Director
New Media, Web development & eCommerce, Print/Graphics
Management Recruiters International
703-442-4842 x217
800-291-0642 x217
fax# 703-356-8251
www.vswerdlow@mrmclean.com
e-mail your resume with interactive links, URL's, screen captures &
send resume in a separate "word" attachment
visit our website at: mrmclean.com for partial job listings

Columbia MD: I am currently learning how to design web pages. I have a degree in IFSM and I am working on my masters in MIS. I work for DOD for the moment, but would like to transition to the contractor arena to increase my salary scale. My first question is what organizations should I join that focus on web technology and what moves should I make to get a job as a web designer making around 70,000.00 a year, working in the are of Columbia MD and Ft Meade MD?

Sarah Riddick

Lisa King: There are too many organizations doing all kinds of web work to provide an easy answer. First, decide what aspect of web/internet technology you want to focus on - routing; network architecture, server security, etc. Then work to gain the specific skills necessary, which may involve certification rather than a degree. Also, think about the various aspects of contracting - do you want a long-term contract in one place or shorter-term assignments that will give you the opportunity to move around? Different companies specialize in different aspects of the contracting business.

Washington DC: I am a nutritionist recently graduated with a master's degree. I would like to know what kind of job opportunities are there for me that I can use both my scientific background and computer technologies together to find a highly paid job in DC, MD or Northern VA.
thanks

Lisa King: There are lots of opportunities for people with your combination of skills. If you're feeling entrepreneurial, you could even launch your own customized diet site. Ediets (http://www.ediets.com) does this and also provides chats with nutritionists. One of the big trends is virtual personal trainers, an online exercise coach. You could team with one of them to provide nutritional advice to her clients.

Springfield, Va.: Hi Lisa,
I'm currently in the Accounting field with a degree in Data Processing and recently became MCSE certified. I am having a hard time finding a job because of the lack of experience. What steps should I take and can your organization help me?

Lisa King: My favorite suggestion - volunteer! If you are a member of any group that has a web site, ask to help them out. Build a network for a non-profit, your church, a charity. Not all experience has to be paid. Any experience you can gain will help you develop contacts, skills and give you something for your resume.

Washington, DC: I am working with a temporary agency to become full-time with a company. The contract has been satisfied and the company would like to bring me on full-time, however, they have to post, advertise, and so on and this could take at least two more months to complete. I don't want to get tied into another month contract with the agency representing me. How can I work independently for the company without involving the agency at all? I certainly deserve and have worked very hard for the company and with a higher hourly rate, would help me until becoming full-time satisfied. I would really like advice and also how I could establish-represent myself as a contractor. Thanks for your advice and I really enjoy reading and learning from your articles.

Lisa King: Having been a temp-to-perm employee at times, I know how frustrating this can be. It's a fine line to walk since the company has its own procedures to follow, even though they are pleased with your work. Since your contract with the agency has been satisfied, I would approach the most likely person to be able to handle this with whom you already have a relationship. In a small company, it might be the VP of Administration or the HR person. In a large company, it might be your immediate supervisor. Explain the situation, and show them how they can save money for the company by working with you to negotiate a new rate. Chances are there's enough room for you to get more and them to pay less, so you both come out ahead.

newark, de: During an interview where should you focus your eyes without being rude?

Lisa King: Interview situations are difficult, because you're so very aware of everything you're doing. You don't want to stare, but also don't want to seem "shifty-eyed" or unfocused by looking all around. Focus on the bridge of the other person's nose. That keeps you focused on their face and what they're saying without seeming to stare them down.

Temple Hills, Maryland: What am I doing wrong? I have been searching for a job for the last 5 months. I have a CIS degree and almost 2 years of work experience. Everyone tells me that it shouldn't take anytime to find a computer job. Please help me.

Thanks!
Tired of hearing NO!

Lisa King: Ask a friend, preferably one who has interviewed and hired employees, to interview you and critique your performance. As was mentioned in Bob Levy's column a few weeks ago, something as simple as pulling up your socks during an interview can give someone a bad impression of you. And I never would have thought of that as a problem. Other pet peeves mentioned by interviewers were chewing gum, playing with hair and fidgeting.

Have someone proofread your resume. Many resumes that contain typos never get replies.

Finally, ask for a reality check about the kinds of jobs you're interviewing for. Call the HR person or recruiter and ask what skills you would need to be considered for the position in the future.

Good luck!

Falls Church, VA: I want to learn XML but I don't know HTML, Do you think learning HTML is a prerequisite to learning XML or at least desirable before taking on XML?

Lisa King: While I don't usually make blanket statements, everyone should know at least basic HTML, particularly anyone interested in an IT career. Before learning XML you should definitely learn HTML. Knowing the basics is always helpful. And HTML isn't going away, and people don't always upgrade to new versions, so to be most competitive, you should know both.

McLean, VA: Ms. King, thanks for joining us to answer questions. The timing of your chat is perfect, because I am a woman interested in changing my career from network engineering in telecom to web design. How can I get in touch with someone at DC Web Women already in the field to go over my strategy for developing the necessary skills? Thanks.

Lisa King: You can visit our web site at http://www.dcwebwomen.org and subscribe to our technical mailing list. We also have threaded discussion boards on our web site. After you read the list for a few weeks, you'll get an idea of who might be helpful to ask for advice in your specific situation.

Chevy Chase, MD: I am a writer-editor with years of experience in printed publications. I have also developed and written content for a couple of web sites. I am job hunting and realize the need to expand my web skills. Do you think a basic "intro to web development" training course would be valuable? Or would I need more in-depth training and, if so, in which system? Employers each seem to have their own favorite web development system.

Lisa King: The ability to write content specifically for the web is a great skill. If only we could convince employers that they are unlikely to find one person who can write content, code and design at the level they want. Web development is best done by a team. That said, you are correct that each member of the team should at least be aware of the possibilities and limitations of the other team functions, and so should have some training in those areas. Yes, an intro to web development course would give you that understanding. Then you can approach employers with your skills and knowledge of how those skills can fit into the team. They should provide you with any additional training for their specific requirements.

Washington, D.C.: As more and more people try to jump on the Internet start-up bandwagon, what do you see as the biggest challenge to new start-ups, particularly unfunded start-ups? What are some ways to overcome those challenges?

Lisa King: The most common problem for people with ideas is that someone else already had the idea and is much further along in developing it. Also, with so many people trying to pitch their ideas, it's difficult to stand out from the crowd and get noticed.

The Netpreneur Program (http://www.netpreneur.org) recently developed a program called "Fast Pitch."

Want to step up to the plate and pitch your idea to venture capitalists (VCs), the people who are investing unprecedented amounts of money in high growth Internet companies?

Most people with cool ideas for technology businesses and no business plan will never get the opportunity to meet with a VC, but now you have a chance to get ahead of the curve - at Internet speed - with FastPitch.

This is a swing at an open forum developed and produced by VC Draper Atlantic and Netpreneur.org - the .org community for .com startups - for potential entrepreneurs to give the FastPitch to local venture capitalists for feedback and advice. To apply for the next FastPitch event, email investorservices@netpreneur.org with 1) your technology business idea, 2) why you want to do it, and 3) include or attach your resume. Applicants will be informed of the next FastPitch session once it has been scheduled.

For more information, see

Washington, DC: I once heard about a local program where women are assigned a mentor in their field. Do you know of such a program which specifically pertains to the internet industry -or, if not, another
mentoring program for women-?

Lisa King: There are some mentoring programs. I believe the Women's Business Center offers mentoring for women starting small businesses. Another option is to attend industry networking events and try to meet a likely candidate - someone who is doing what you want to do.

Women's Information Network is sponsoring the 11th Annual Women Opening Doors for Women on June 1. Women Opening Doors for Women is a series of small dinner parties around the area, each focused on a particular topic. This is a great way to meet other women in your area of interest, and who are already committed to helping other women in their fields. More information on the event can be found at

Jobs: We are now halfway through our live discussion with our special guest, Lisa King. Please submit your questions, now; we look forward to answering them.

Alexandria, VA: Lisa, I do some freelance work on the side and thought that networking at local meetings would be a good way for me to get new work; however, I don't do so well at network events. Breaking into conversations, introducing myself, etc. is all very difficult for me. Do you have any tips for someone new to networking?

Lisa King: I have two favorite networking tips. If you know that you're shy and have difficulty meeting people, volunteer at the event. If you are acting in an official capacity, you won't be pushy, but helpful.

The other hint is to go with a friend and take turns introducing each other to people. Work out your introductions ahead of time and be sure to give conversation starters. So, I might ask my friend to introduce me with this, "Do you know Lisa King? She's president of DC Web Women and a grad student at Virginia Tech." This gives the other person several avenues to continue the conversation. The easier you make it for other people, the more they will want to talk with you.

Gaithersburg.Md: Many ads ask for specific degrees-product experience. How would you handle being able to meet only some of their criteria?

Lisa King: This was recently discussed on the DC Web Women list. I think many companies are advertising for multiple needs in single ads. Some ads do say "experience in one or more of the following." Others throw out every software package ever sold and hope for the best. Research the company and show how your experience fits in with their needs and the work they do. If they say you need an MBA and you have an MIS + management experience, explain why your experience can replace their requirement.

McLean, VA: Can you tell us about some of the seminars that your group hosts? Are non-members able to attend such functions? Seminar topics that I have read about seem applicable to many women, even outside of the IT world....

Thanks!

Lisa King: We have seminars on varied topics. In January we did "What's an Information Architect and How do I Become One?" which was extremely popular. In May, we'll be talking about "Making Sense of Certifications." And in March we have Washington Jobs columnist Dr. Lynn Friedman talking about "Work-Life Goals and Balance." Many seminars are open, but we do request RSVPs. Details are available on our web site and will indicate whether a particular meeting is for members only or open.

Fort Washington Maryland: I recently graduated from college with a BS in Information Systems. In December of 2001 I am scheduled to retire from the Marine Corps. What can I do to prepare to transition into the Information Technology field?

Lisa King: I don't know how difficult it is to change what you're doing within the Marine Corps, but if you can get assigned to work with the IT people, that would be a great start. Networking is also really important. There is lots of former Marines who are working in the IT field all around the area. If you start now getting in touch with some of them, finding out what experience and qualifications they look for, you'll be in a much better position when you leave the Marine Corps.

Lorton VA: I am presently employed as a teacher and I need to supplement my income to survive as a recently divorced Mom with a son in college and a daughter in fifth grade and a dead car. I am a hard worker, creative, and energetic. I have received accolades and awards for my work as an educator. I wish to earn income from work I do at home around my already tight schedule although my technology training is limited to schoolwide inservices and workshops. Would it behoove me to learn how to develop websites and derive income from that means or by some other technology enterprise? Thanks for your input. Sharon

Lisa King: I would try to combine your current expertise with technology. You could provide online tutoring or assist other teachers in their curriculum design. Check into Blackboard . They are a local web-based company that allows you to design courses and charge for them. Blackboard handles the e-commerce and takes a percentage.

Arlington, VA: As an editor, like Chevy Chase, I'm constantly amazed at the web sites I come across filled with editorial errors. Is this the byproduct of employers not wanting to hire someone to work on the website's text itself? Seems self-defeating and shortsighted.

Lisa King: It goes back to expecting that one person is an excellent writer, graphic artist, designer and programmer. That is a very difficult (and expensive) combination. In an ideal world, web development is the product of team collaboration.

I don't know if there is an additional sense that, like email, the web is more casual than formal business communication and so proofreading isn't so important. But I agree with you, it reflects poorly on those companies.

ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND: What kinds of careers are emerging for public relations professionals who have experience primarily in the health industry on the internet? Where can I go to find out more about these opportunities?

Lisa King: All public relations people who wish to move into Internet-based careers should be required to read the ClueTrain Manifesto . For information on specific careers, I would try to combine your current skills (in the health industry) with your desired new field. Many people are now searching for health information on line. Sites like WebMD are extremely popular and are always looking for employees.

Vienna, VA: Many women may be contemplating a career change, so I am curious to know if becoming an internet professional was a career change for you, or did you already have a background in computers?

Lisa King: I have always worked with computers, since the mid-80s. Even when that wasn't my job, I always volunteered to take that on. And in small offices, that's the best way to get new skills. My career change comes now, in my interest in internet policy.

Bethesda, MD: This may be a bit off topic, but I was wondering if you could suggest any resources -books, individuals, web sites, etc.- for those of us looking to leave our present career path in order to enter the technology world. Specifically, I need help in narrowing down which aspect of the technology field I would like to enter. For example, is there a book or in-depth article that discusses networking, main frame programming, web site programming, and other technology positions so that I could decide which type of training to pursue? -I've looked at the dictionary of occupational titles but I was hoping for a bit more substance. - Or should I discuss the situation with someone such as a career counselor at a local college? Thanx.

Lisa King: This is extremely difficult. There are so many different aspects to IT including content development, e-commerce, database development, programming, server administration and security, networking, routing, etc. That's confusing enough before all the possible certifications are thrown into the mix. Which certification will help with which job? Which certifications are actual industry standards and which are a training company's way of getting money?

Unfortunately, I haven't found a one-stop resource for all of that. The best advice is to talk to people about what they actually do in the course of a day. (Many people with cool titles really spend all day in meetings.) When you hear something that you can picture yourself doing, investigate that field.

Chicago, IL: Hello:
I am going to be a new grad -Masters degree in computer Science- what would be the salary range for me to look at in NY in an e commerce consulting firm. The company in question is Razorfish. I fear I quoted too low when they asked me what I was expecting. Also, what should I expect in San Francisco and Chicago for a similar kind of position. It will be an entry-level programmer's position. Also can you give me some good site that tells me and lets me know the comparisons of various cities and states? I looked at a few but nothing was up to my satisfaction.
Pallavi

Lisa King: Another difficult line to walk - you don't want to ask for too much money, but you want to make sure you're valuing yourself properly and will be taken seriously. Add into the mix the difference in cost of living in New York, Chicago and San Francisco and it sounds like a terrible math problem. I made that mistake with my first job in the DC area. Coming from Delaware, I accepted what would have been a terrific salary there; not really the vast difference in cost of living.

Again, it's difficult to find one place to answer all these questions. I believe Money Magazine has a cost of living calculator to determine what salary you would need in various cities to maintain the same standard of living.

The Washington Post online often has a salary survey running. Papers in other cities might have similar surveys that can help you. Or check their online archives - they may have written stories about salaries in the tech field recently.

Kensington, MD: Hi Lisa,

I work in the Telecommunication Industry and I really like it. But I always have a great desire to open my own Web Development company. I would like to develop and maintain website for small companies and individuals who can not afford to get the job done by high paying developers. I primarily would like to provide my service to the under privilege groups! I have a teen age son who wants to join me too because he is quite creative in Art & Design. We would like to know what would be the best approach and learning path. If necessary I can meet you to discuss the prospect.

Please help me!

Thanks for your time

Lisa King: Try volunteering to gain experience. Groups like Byte Back provide technology training to the unemployed, underemployed and youth in DC.

WDC: Lisa, I have recently begun learning HTML, JavaScript, etc on my own. I am an IT worker with about 20 years of experience in the mainframe operating systems area. Can you suggest a general approach to making the transition to web work? -I have a BS in CS and a master's in software engineering.
Thanks

Lisa King: It's great that you're learning HTML, etc. Combine those new skills with the experience you have. Make sure your resume emphasizes your new skills and your project management experience, which is desperately needed by many employers. Be prepared for questions about why mainframe experience should be considered relevant. Go on a few interviews without any great expectations and then practice your answers to the questions you heard most often.

Arlington, VA: So are web companies in the D.C. area sponsoring foreign tech workers or not?

Lisa King: Many technology companies are. I don't know any specifics about web companies. In addition, jobs are now more mobile than they were, as technology provides faster communication. It is no longer as important to be in the same building when you can get the information with the same speed.

Arlington, VA: I am a web content developer at a non-profit whose primary skills include handcoding html in Homesite, information architecture, and editing content. I also have some limited graphics experience with Photoshop and Paintshop Pro.

I'd like to position myself to continue doing content development, but also to do more writing and training in the future -my background includes journalism and teaching-. What skills should I add -or master- to improve my marketability?

Lisa King: Understanding what is different about writing for the web and how people use the site is extremely important.

The following are all recommended resources from the DC Web Women list:

1. The Non-Designer's Web Book by Robin Williams (Peachpit Press).

2. Anything by Edward Tufte:
http://public.logica.com/~stepneys/bib/nf/tufte.htm
Envisioning Information
Visual Display of Quantitative Information
Visual Explanations: Images and Quantities, Evidence and Narrative
Visual and Statistical Thinking: Displays of Evidence for Decision
Making

3. HTML Web Magic

4. Looking Good In Print

5. Designing Web Usability, by Jakob Nielsen

6. Web Style Guide by Lynch and Horton from Yale

North Potomac, Maryland: I have a few years' experience preparing information for the Web, providing quality control for Web pages, working with HTML. I would like to become a Webmaster for an organization. Is it worth my time and money to get Web certification from Montgomery College? Also is there a "place" that lists the skills of a Webmaster?

Lisa King: Webmaster means different things at different organizations. It can mean the person who coordinates the activities of the team or it can be the one person who does everything related to the organization's presence on the Web. Certifications are generally helpful, but will not alone get you the position. Experience is what makes the difference. Many employers ask for URLs and an explanation of what you specifically did in junction with the site, whether it was coding, design, etc.

Jobs: We hope you come back and join us on Mondays at 11 a.m. and Thursdays at 10 a.m., when we feature live discussions about careers with special guest experts.

On Monday March 9th, we will have Leonard Mogel on our show at 11:00 am ET. Please submit your questions on job hunting and internships. See you then!

Oh, and before you go, check out Jobs, the online career center on the Washingtonpost.com network.

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