STAYING COOL

During the recent heat wave, looking professional may have taken a back seat to keeping comfortable. But one expert warns that cooler looks may burn your chances in an interview.

"The way you look and carry yourself will send subtle signals to a prospective employer which can improve or derail your chances for making the cut," said Richard Bayer, chief operating officer of the Five O'Clock Club. "It's even trickier during the summer, when lighter, more casual attire is ubiquitous."

Mr. Bayer offers the following tips to beat the heat:

Happy feet. If you'd rather travel in flip-flops or sandals, carry your dress shoes to change into before an interview. Not only will your feet thank you, but your dress shoes also will stay clean

Peel off. Put your suit jacket on at the last minute to avoid unwanted sweat stains on your back and under your arms. Also, men's ties can be knotted in advance for a quick change. Women, opt for camisoles or sleeveless tops under a suit

Suit selection. Women can avoid pantyhose, which can be stifling in heat, by opting for a pantsuit instead. For men, invest in a summer suit made of lighter fabric to stay cool.

BETTER BENEFITS

While such glamorous work perks as game rooms and chef-prepared lunches dominated the dot.com boom, employers are now offering more traditional benefits to improve their employees' lives overall, according to one survey.

Of the 263 private and public companies surveyed by JobKite.com, 56 percent have enhanced their employee benefits for recruiting and retention purposes.

"Employees' priorities have changed. They're more focused on longevity and a work/life balance," said Heather Galler, JobKite's CEO. "And employers are picking up on that."

Almost nine out of 10 of those enhancing their benefits are adding life, vision or increased health insurance, while 69 percent are offering more money through stock programs, bonus plans or additional funds to 401(k) plans.

Four out of 10 are giving more vacation time, whereas 36 percent are offering telecommuting options. One of the more unique benefits, according to Ms. Galler, is company concierge services that run everyday errands from grocery shopping to pet-sitting for employees.

"Companies are really making a smart move here," said Ms. Galler. "The happier the employee is and the more balanced [employees] are the better work they'll do."

SMART MAJORS

Attention, college students. While a four-year degree will help you in the job market, certain majors may best prepare you for the jobs of the future, according to one consultant.

John Challenger, CEO of global outplacement consultancy Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., offers the following course selections. "All of these are directly transferable to the future job market," he said.

Foreign languages and international relations. Mr. Challenger emphasizes studying Chinese and other Asian languages as those emerging markets grow. Understanding other languages, cultures and political systems also is necessary in a global economy.

Physical therapy. As the baby boom generation grays, demand for health-care providers will increase. Nursing, pharmacy and gerontology are other good options.

Speech/acting. Brush off that Shakespeare soliloquy. While film and theater will remain tough professions, acting and speech skills can help future sales and marketing executives, Mr. Challenger said.

Engineering. Already, employers are finding a shortage of engineers of all types and are looking abroad for more workers. If you're willing to put in the schooling, you'll always find demand.