Public speaking can be daunting. It may seem impossible to get over those shaking knees and cold sweats, but getting over trepidation can be extremely useful for goals like, say, getting a job. So, here’s your bum tip sheet for speaking up and not having a heart attack in the process.

Nowadays there are a staggering number of applicants for most open positions (thank you, bad economy). Don't let this fact deter you from applying, but make sure to give it your all if you're spotted in the crowd. People apply from all sorts of places and recruiters are short on time, so if you're fortunate enough to have your resume make it from the toppling pile or overloaded inbox of a recruiter onto his or her short(er)-list, you may be in for a phone interview. Though this may initially seem less intimidating, be prepared for a number of challenges.

Happy first day of summer. Remember when that meant vacation? Your life may be in a semi-vacation state, but financial stress can make it hard to relax. So get serious about your quest for financial okay-ness. You may have noticed that we haven't written about how to get a job lately. That's because it's hard. Who knew that sending your resume to a bunch of people could be so draining? You need a game plan. It probably won't be that inspiring to search job boards or do a bunch of networking. In fact, it will probably be the opposite of fun. But to get your dream job (or just any job), you have to break through your own barriers.

Although many of us harbor bitterness toward the big 'ol V-Day, there are a few broke romantics still out there. Forgive the bad poetry, but it’s got to be done:

Chocolate and flowers,
cards and gifts,
use your RFB powers,
to make little shifts,
that’ll keep your lovers,
diving under the covers.

It's that time of year again. Merchants hope to hear the cha-ching of your hard-earned cash being handed over so you can curry favor and avoid guilt. By now everyone has heard the news about jobs being cut and salaries reduced, so feel justified in playing into the general tightfisting. Giving cheaper gifts is a bit trickier because they usually require more hunting down, but we've decided to help you out. Here are some tips for high fun/low pain gift giving.

Doesn't it always seem that the wealthiest folks have the best luck? They're out there making deals and scoring fantastic opportunities, while you're sitting home scouring the job boards. Bummer! The truth is, you don't have to have a wad of cash to network like the pros. Try these 5 quick tips to boost your connections without breaking the bank.

As my manicurist once told me, "of course you can't go to a job interview with your nails all raggedy." I might be paraphrasing, but you get the idea. Knowing this town, you can sabotage the interview you've been dying for with jagged cuticles.  Problem: Having spent the last couple months chewing them off, how's a bum to get presentable nails without blowing two weeks of grocery money?