Thursday, February 20, 1997

What jobs computers, humans do best

By CAROL KLEIMAN / Chicago Tribune

The computer or you? That's an important question to ask today when technology is replacing not only tasks but people.

In fact, computers also are programmed to make important business decisions, further eliminating the need for human beings at the helm.

But automated machines are not human beings, as computer expert James Martin points out in his book, "Cybercorp: The New Business Revolution" (AMACOM, $27.95).

"In the age of cybercorp, many business decisions are, indeed, better off left to machines, while others still undeniably require that distinctive human touch," says Martin.

Here's how Martin would delegate some business decisions:

To machines: reordering goods, scheduling flight arrivals, routing information on the Internet, storing data and communicating with a variety of locations.

To humans: subtle decisions that require intelligence, feelings, emotions and intuition; decisions requiring creativity, original thinking and common sense; goal setting; leadership; business negotiations; and protocol.

And here's one more that I would assign to humans - good, kind and compassionate humans: decisions about pay increases. I would not leave matters of salary to the mean-spirited, miserly computers that surely must be making those decisions today.

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If you use the Internet to hunt for a job, how can you draw attention to your special talents and skills? In other words, to yourself?

"I've found many listings for which I am well-suited, but I feel as if I am sending my resumes off to the twilight zone, along with thousands of other candidates," an accountant said. "Is there a way to single yourself out in this situation - or do I just hope to get lucky?

"Also, I always send cover letters but wonder if they make a difference in this environment - or should I just send resumes only?"

First of all, let me assure you that people do get jobs from the Internet, a wonderful source of opportunities for job seekers.

I've spoken to people who have found employment via cyberspace in a time period as short as three months. Others report it can take a year.

Since it costs most employers money to be on the Internet, I would assume they read all responses to the job openings they list. I don't advise anything but a straightforward resume with keywords reflecting your skills and experience.

However, you probably can be a little more inventive and get a little bit more attention with a cover letter. It's the first thing most employers read, so it may be the place to make a brief pitch for your accomplishments and individuality.

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So many Americans are concerned about calories and the quality of food they ingest that career opportunities in nutrition and dietetics are expanding, according to the American Dietetic Association (ADA).

According to the professional group, more than 18,000 students in the United States were enrolled in undergraduate programs in dietetics, an increase of 6,000 over 1990.

In addition to a bachelor's degree, dietitians must complete a supervised practice program and take a national examination to be registered. Dietetic technicians need an associate degree and supervised practice program before taking a registration exam.

The association encourages members of ethnic minorities to enter the profession.

"Unfortunately, some ethnic populations with high rates of nutrition-related diseases are the least represented by nutrition professionals within their own communities," said Jacqueline Saracino, a registered dietitian and chair of the ADA's diversity committee.

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Coach's Tip. Establish a professional relationship with your manager. You don't have to be best friends, but you do have to be able to communicate directly whenever necessary.