Q: Dear Seymour, I am tired of job searching and I deserve a break. Is it worth it to keep looking during the holidays?
- Submitted by Bryce Collins, Conyers, Georgia
A: Dear Bryce,
It is certainly tempting to just forget about job searching during the holidays. You've been working hard all year--why not take a few weeks off with everyone else and forget about it for a little while? In fact, many job seekers believe the holidays are scant with open job requisitions. However, it may just be your time to stand out while others are sipping on eggnog.
Everyone else is taking time off, so it's time to search extra hard.
If you feel like taking time off, so does everyone else! That's why it's a great idea to search now more than ever. Find what no one else is looking for and apply while there are fewer people on the hunt. While everyone else is napping the winter away, be the early bird who is ready with a polished resume and cover letter and available at a moment's notice for a networking meeting or interview.
Take advantage of a more relaxed business environment.
Many businesses slow down during the holidays, which means, hiring managers are likely to have more time to meet with you and network. They're also more likely in a festive, giving spirit as meetings slow down and the pace of things becomes more manageable. Touch base with your networking contacts and set up meetings and interviews.
Celebrate (and network).
Celebrations abound during this time and you have more networking events to attend than ever. You can even host some yourself. Remember that every person you know and meet is a potential networking contact. Even volunteering your time to charitable organizations is a great way to meet people and find out about new opportunities.
December often means movement.
Many people decided to switch jobs or retire around the end of the year. This means lots of new openings become available that most companies want to fill before the New Year when budgets are set and everyone is expected to hit the New Year running.
You should take some time for yourself to enjoy the holidays, but don't give up your job search. This is an excellent time to look and you don't want a perfect opportunity to pass you by.
A new survey recently released has some good news about the job market - more companies are planning to hire in the near future. So job seekers, get ready for the job hunt to possibly pick up the pace!
If you have decided to give up the hunt, like so many job seekers, due to an unsuccessful few months of looking, now is the time to make a to do list and get back in the game. Here's where to start:
- Start with your cover letter - even if you have not been working, you may want to let the cover letter explain what you have been doing i.e. volunteering in the community, mentoring students, taking training courses, etc.
- Update your resume - if you have been working elsewhere and it is pertinent to your career, add information about your recent experience.
- Practice your skills - take some time to refresh your interview skills and practice your interview presence.
- Sharpen your network - knowing that companies may be ramping up to hire again, now is the time to start networking with professionals who can set you on the right path to finding a job
- Prepare your networking and interviewing suit - make sure you have your interview suit pressed and ready at a moment's notice.
If in fact more companies are preparing to hire, competition for job openings will be tight because so many job seekers are in the talent pool. So take each of the tips above very seriously, and do your homework. Read all you can about jobs searching techniques, and how to stand out from other job seekers.
Q: Dear Seymour, How Can I Tell Which Online Job Opportunities are Real and Not Scams?
- Submitted by Lynn Boone, Boise, Idaho
A: Dear Lynn,
In today's tough economy, online job opportunities seem to be increasing - streaming into inboxes and found in classified ads faster than ever before. Believe it or not, real online jobs do exist, but identifying them has become quite a challenge with so many of the jobs being scams. Learning how to identify online job scams is a skill that must be mastered if a legitimate job is to be found. There are several 'red lights' to watch out for when applying for an online job.
Take a close look at the ad or recruitment email for spelling and grammar errors. As a sign of professionalism, legitimate companies tend to have little or no spelling or grammatical mistakes. If an ad has numerous mistakes or run-on sentences, it most likely is not a credible company.
If the website or ad asks for any kind of billing information, beware of a scam. A "sign-up" fee is also a tell-tale sign that the job you are applying for is a scam. The purpose of a job is to get paid by a company, not pay them.
Real employers ask for a resume, not money. They provide an address, email address or fax number, and never list their phone number to get the resume. If a phone number is provided, call it. If a computer answers, it's probably a scam. If a person answers ask them direct questions about where they are located and details about the actual work. Scammers will avoid such questions. If emailing the company, see if the response answers your specific question, not a generic one. Most importantly, research the company online for any complaints.
The bottom line is that real employers are looking for skilled, knowledgeable and experienced applicants. They never say "No Experience Necessary" - instead they use the term "entry level" when describing a position. They also typically don't list job salaries.
It's important to know that legitimate online jobs are obtained the same way as traditional jobs. Apply for a job you are qualified for, fill out an application and submit your resume to obtain an interview for employment. Anything less is questionable.
Now is the time to stand out in the job market. With thousands out of work and companies flooded with resumes, it is important to make sure that your resume does not end up in the trash.
As one article explains, prospective job seekers should stick with the basics of resume writing and not be too ornate or "creative" about developing a resume. Unnecessary gimmicks or too many block letters and boxed information, could get your resume thrown into the trash.
With more workers looking for employment, recruiters and hiring managers are spending more time sifting through resumes and applications to try and find the qualified talent they are seeking. If resume set ups are too distracting, they may lose their patience and move on to the next.
Furthermore, companies are not hiring en masse right now. Chances are they are only looking for a handful, or fewer, candidates at a time. With fewer jobs and more candidates, workers can ill-afford to have their resumes tossed to the side, or thrown away without even having a chance at an interview.
Several previous Big Time posts have discussed green jobs as possible options for those looking for a new industry or new job to pursue. Part of President Obama's economic stimulus package included funding for environmentally focused jobs and industries.
Although some reports may say that the number of green jobs available is disappointing, these jobs are still options for passive and actively seeking job candidates. Check out the following article about finding a green job.
Not only does this article offer advice about what one might need to do to find a green job, such as relocating and staying focused on particular industries, but it also lists a number of web sites that can keep you up to date on the news and information about green businesses and industry.
Q: Dear Seymour, Could my Facebook Page be Keeping me From Landing a Job?
- Submitted by Jane Ayers, Tuscaloosa, Florida
A: Dear Jane,
Facebook started in 2004 as a pet project of then Harvard student Mark Zuckerberg. It was originally designed for students, but in no time it exploded into an international social networking phenomenon that included everyone and excluded no one. Though it was once a forum for students to chat and post photos, now facebook is for anyone and everyone--including potential employers - which means if you're serious about your career, there are rules to follow.
Is this professional?
Before you post anything to facebook, ask yourself: Is this professional? If you knew a boss or a potential boss would see it, how would you feel? What might they assume about you? Social networking is about being friends with people, but now that business and career networking has become part of it as well, it's important to mind your p's and q's. If you wouldn't do it or say it in an office, don't put it on facebook.
Consider creating a career-only profile.
It's a great idea to make a profile that is only for business and networking. You can easily create a separate e-mail address to help you manage this, and it will eliminate the question of whether it's okay to post something on facebook. Make this profile only about your work and your career goals. Post a professional photo if you choose to post a photo at all, and make your updates about industry news. If you have a career blog, link to it there. This is also a great idea for friending people you work with--office rumors can spread quickly, so only having work friends on your business profile will protect you. This will allow you more freedom on your personal site.
Manage your friends and your privacy.
Many people have hundreds, even thousands of facebook friends. It's smart to create lists to help you manage your friend list and also to regulate the privacy settings of each group. You may have one group for closest friends, one group for family, and one for career networking. Privacy settings are so sophisticated now that you can manage who sees what, so it's easy to still post your beach vacation photos but only make them visible to your social friend group. Think about what is appropriate on your profile for friends and what is appropriate for business and use the privacy accordingly.
You never know who is watching.
This is true in life, and it's also true on facebook. Even if you think your privacy settings are set, even if you think you are unsearchable, you never know how word could get out about something you said or did. Maybe one of your friends ends up knowing your next hiring manager even if you are unaware of the connection. Most hiring managers are eager for information about candidates, and while using a friend to view other's profiles may not be completely ethical, it's wise to expect the unexpected.
One short, simple rule for facebook or any social networking: If your grandma and your boss shouldn't see it, don't post it.
Karen Valentine has more than 16 years of experience in human resources and outsourcing. As Director of Solutions for SourceRight Solutions, she devises and implements coherent HR strategies while improving internal processes and procedures. Karen has a bachelor of business in HR from Deakin University in Australia and has lived and worked in North America for more than11 years.
1. What are the advantages to utilizing a recruiter in my job search? Recruiters can connect you to job opportunities that you otherwise wouldn't know about. They can also assist in 'selling' you to the hiring manager. They offer guidance on how to present yourself and advice on how to win the job.
2. Is it OK to use more than one staffing/recruiting agency at a time? Yes. However, you have to be respectful and honest with your recruiter to make sure that they are kept in the loop on other opportunities that you have been presented for. You don't want a war of which agency was the first to refer you.
3. What trends have you been seeing in the job market? I am seeing a lot of consolidation. Merger and acquisition activity is currently underway, affecting the availability of jobs in this economy. However, there are some promising growth areas due to government policies, consumer demand and economic conditions that are making way for job creation. These new and/or expanding opportunities lie with companies that are involved with: Biotechnology; Construction and Engineering Services for Infrastructure and Government Projects; Health Products [including Health / Organic Foods]; Health Services; Energy Conservation / Renewable Energies; and Cosmetics Manufacturers.
4. What are some tips for first time job seekers or recent graduates coming into a job market that is proceeding cautiously with hiring decisions? All job offers need a certain level of consideration to ensure that you can commit to the role. However, don't hesitate for too long or someone else will move in. Also remember that the early stage of your career is the best time to explore career paths and take chances.
5.What is the one thing you recommend candidates steer clear of during an interview? During the initial interview it is great to ask questions about the business based on your research in order to showcase your interest. But asking questions about where you will sit, what sort of a computer you will be getting, etc. sounds like you are under the assumption that you will get the job. Also avoid asking questions about vacation time or other company perks; it can leave a bad impression about your level of commitment. It's important to remember you are on a interview and trying to impress your prospective employer.
6. What types of things can candidates do to distinguish themselves from the pack? Structure your approach like a marketing campaign. Research opportunities before they become publicly advertised. Do your homework on the company that you are applying for; personalize your approach in letters and conversations using your research. Most importantly, do homework on yourself. It is important to make sure that you are prepared to answer questions and demonstrate your capabilities. For example, it is a good idea to name your strengths and be prepared with examples of how you have put them to use.
7. What do you enjoy most about your job? Problem solving. I really enjoy working with our clients to understand their needs and deliver creative and achievable solutions to meet their business requirements. The process is always a great learning experience. Plus, I get to meet interesting and diverse people along the way!
Remember the day you were laid off? What was the first thing some of your friends and colleagues said to you? I can probably tell you a couple of answers: "I am sorry", "Tough break, but you'll bounce back".
Those were probably the most common comments. But I bet there was one more that you possibly heard - "Maybe when the economy gets better, they will ask you back." This is always a possibility, but according to one article, it can be a blessing and a curse.
If you want to leave the door open to come back to your former employer, don't burn any bridges as you leave. Stay in touch with your colleagues and manager while you look for another job, and mention that if the opportunity arises, you would like to come back.
Should your former employer call you back, but you are not sure if it's the right move, don't feel pressured to return just because you need to have a job. Weigh the options and potential opportunities you have in front of you, and determine if your previous employer is the right place for you to be.
There is certainly some daylight in the job market, and little by little, more job opportunities are becoming available. If you are out of work, conduct a job search as normal, and keep an eye on your former employer. You never know, there may be a chance that you could be a boomerang employer one or two years down the line.
Several previous posts have talked about different styles related to the workplace. Interview style, workplace personality, meeting style, there are many styles and personalities embodied by employees. Here's one more to think about - job search style.
Take a look at this list of specific job search styles and evaluate yourself based on the characteristics that describe each one. You may be a combination of different styles, but consider the one that is most like you.
Pay close attention to the area about improving your search methods. There are many people in the job market, so competition is stiff. Any improvements that can be made to your search will put you head and shoulders above the rest.
Feeling a little discouraged by the job market news? While the economy seems to be showing signs of life, the job market is still lagging behind, with more have lost their jobs.
Even the news of the unemployment rate could play psychological games with jobs seekers, making them feel as though there is no hope. However, there are still many industries that are hiring. According to one article, those industries include health care, information technology, accounting and restaurants.
If you are looking for jobs in these areas, be sure that you have a focused search and are including niche job site such as Dice.com (technology) and AccountingJobsToday.com.
Also, don't forget to use your social media and networking connections. A different article points out that sites such as LinkedIn are the "resume of the future". If you are not up to speed on how to use these online tools, start stretching your social media wings now, and become more acquainted with the power of these communities.
So keep your resume sharp and updated, and start looking at the industries that are ready to find and hire talent.
Think about the last time you had a phone interview. A recruiter or hiring manager called, asked you a few questions about your resume, wanted a little more information about your experience, and then most likely scheduled an in person interview.
If this scenario sounds familiar, it may have been a while since you had a phone interview. Today, recruiters and hiring managers are using the phone interview as a bona fide first round interview. According to one article, gone are the days when you could cruise through the phone interview and move right into the face to face with managers and executives.
This new trend of more intense phone interviews could be a direct result of the economy. Companies are being flooded with resumes from laid off workers, so to find the most qualified applicants, phone interviews are used as a weed out tool to make sure the best applicants are being invited in for the face to face interview.
So be prepared for the phone interview. Here are a couple of tips to keep in mind:
1. Conduct the phone interview in a location that is quiet with no distractions.
2. Make sure you schedule the interview when you have time to think about your answers and are not rushing.
3. Treat the phone interview as the first round instead of a preliminary necessity.
4. If it helps, dress for the phone interview. Maybe not in a suit, but make sure you have showered and dressed if you are at home.
5. Prepare by practicing your interview answers, and use all of the interviewing skills you would if this was a face to face meeting.
With the job market still iffy, and the economy limping to a recovery, when you have an opportunity for a job, don't lose out on the opportunity by taking the phone interview for granted.
Many out of work job seekers are pounding the pavement to find a job, even taking jobs that may not be the best for career advancement or job satisfaction.
To add insult to unemployment injury, now scammers are out there advertising fake jobs or scamming money out of desperate job seekers.
According to one article, the Better Business Bureau is warning unemployed job seekers to beware of job offers that may sound too good to be true.
Job scammers may try to do everything from requiring a paid for credit check before applying, to asking for money up front for supplies for work at home schemes. Also, be careful about the amount of information you divulge on resumes or job board sites to protect yourself again identity theft.
If you have any concerns about job offers or employment scams, report it to the Better Business Bureau right away, and be careful about job opportunities that sound suspicious.
Q: Dear Seymour, My grades aren't great. Does this mean I will have a harder time finding a job?
- Submitted by Annie Holloway, Boomer, North Carolina
A: Dear Annie,
Good grades are always a plus on your record. They can earn you recognition and often can open doors. However, good grades aren't important to everyone. To some, grades are an arbitrary measurement system that can depend on what classes you took, the difference between individual teachers, or other factors that don't necessarily reflect on a student's intelligence or abilities. Less-than-perfect grades are not a barrier to finding your dream job. There are still great ways for you to market yourself to a potential employer:
Don't make grades the most prominent part of your resume.
When you create your resume, you don't necessarily have to list a GPA. As long as you have a degree or course credit (in other words, as long as you passed something), that is enough to list. Most employers look at your broad education and any experience that relates to the job you are applying for, not your GPA.
Focus on your passions.
Put time and thought into what you want to do. Why are you applying for certain positions over others? If you are passionate about a job when another candidate with perfect grades is tepid about it, then you will stand out. Most employers are looking for people who are diligent, honest, work hard, and are happy about coming to work. If you care about what you want to do and are serious about it, that will shine through in an interview and set you apart.
Don't bring up bad grades unless you are asked -- if you are, have a good answer.
Never highlight less than stellar qualities in an application process. Unless you are specifically asked about your grades, don't bring it up. If you are asked directly, don't lie. Be honest, but be prepared with a brief explanation about your grades. Do not make excuses. Some good answers could include, "I wasn't focused for the first two years of school," or "I had some temporary personal circumstances," or "I wasn't passionate about what I was studying, but I am very passionate about my current career path." Keep it brief and move on.
Have some other activities to boost your credentials.
Find activities that complement your chosen career. Join clubs, trade associations, professional associations, or volunteer organizations that coincide with your field. Using your free time to devote yourself to these things will draw more attention to your motivation and take away from your report card.
Your biography tells people who you are. In other words, it is character and values driven. It informs people about featured highlights from your vast experience without digging up ancient history. It is audience driven and motivates them to want to know more about you from their perspective. Because it is highly focused, it keeps people on track with your offering. It is the perfect communications tool for electronic media and social networks.
A well-crafted biography is far more interesting to read than almost any resume we have ever muddled through. And, unlike the traditional resume that exclusively signals that you are looking for work, the biography has many more applications. Free agents use bios; people who enjoy meaningful professional relationships use bios; biographies are almost always the most significant attachment to sales proposals and, of course, speakers use bios as introductory tools.
Some basic rules for designing your biography include:
- Write with the targeted audience in mind - you are not writing to yourself!
- 3 to 4 well-crafted paragraphs are more than sufficient for most biographies.
- Avoid cookie-cutter words and phrases and try to write using words the reader can see in their mind's eye.
- Be prepared for a great deal of re-writing but don't edit your own work.
- Remember that different audiences (readers or listeners) require different biographies.
Want to know more about biographies? The Internet is your source.
For more insight from Carleen MacKay, visit her website at www.agelessinamerica.com.
Q: Dear Seymour, I am currently working as a temporary employee at my company. My coworker (who was also working temporary) was just offered her position permanently. How can I turn my temp job into a permanent one?
- Submitted by Robin Kastaneda, Tyler, Texas
A: Dear Robin,
Turning a temporary assignment into a permanent post is often the goal of workers who choose to sign on with temporary staffing companies. In fact, in a recent study by American Staffing Association (ASA), 75% of staffing employees see temporary and contract work as a path to a permanent job. Here's some advice on how to achieve a permanent position right alongside your coworker.
Confirm the opening. Ask your staffing employer or the HR contact at the organization where you are assigned if the position offers the possibility of permanent work. If it doesn't, you can still keep your eyes and ears open for other full-time job openings within your department or elsewhere within the organization.
Make your intentions known. It's important to share your intentions of securing full-time work with the company. Do your best to communicate your goal to coworkers and supervisors.
Exceed expectations in your temporary tasks. Remember, not only is a temp-to-perm assignment an opportunity for you to "try out" the position, your employer is likely sizing you up for the role as well. The single best way to make sure you are considered a candidate for permanent employment is to exceed your boss' expectations in your current assignment. In today's competitive labor market, becoming a star employee may even result in the organization creating a position for you if one is not currently available.
Take advantage of your inside contacts. If you've done a good job at building your credibility and proving your worth to colleagues and superiors, they can help serve as references and stepping stones to a permanent position within the organization.
Don't get complacent. Even though you're considered an "insider," it is still important to approach the interview and hiring process seriously. Make sure you convey why you're a good fit for the position, and the benefits of hiring you, such as your existing knowledge of the company.
Entering your temporary assignment with these tips in mind will go a long way towards achieving the permanent position you desire. Good luck!
"A recent American Staffing Association study found that nearly half (43%) of workers surveyed had turned their temporary job into a permanent one. There's no question that taking a temporary job can lead to full-time work, but you must make your intentions known! Don't be shy about sharing your goals of a permanent position with your coworkers and supervisors."
Times are tough, and finding a new job can be challenging, especially for new grads. Some new entrants into the workforce have to take jobs outside of their intended career path, just to get by. But as one article explains, it could be the best thing you ever do.
Some jobs may not be worth the time to apply for or provide you with the experience that might be beneficial to help your career down the line. But if you take a chance, you might find a job that you never even realized you wanted, in a city or state you never thought about living and working in.
As the article illustrates, some workers have accepted jobs outside on their intended career path and moved to completely different cities in other states, and the job has not only been a success, but it has proven to provide them with valuable experience.
The moral to this post? If you are in a position to switch career paths or even move to another part of the country, don't be afraid to take a chance and try a new job in a new place. You may discover your undiscovered talent.
There are many articles and reports stating that this year is going to be a tough one for new grads. But fear not Class of 2009, there may be glimmers of hope in the job market.
Check out this article and see some of the jobs, and big name companies, that are looking for a few good men and women to hire. So don't think that degree is going to go to waste just yet.
President Barack Obama's stimulus plan has allocated $40 billion to invest in the development of green jobs. That is, career opportunities tapping into companies' commitment to "go green."
Interested in a change of pace? Your skills may just fit into the green jobs movement. Check out some career options here.
What's really neat about a green job? Not only will you be doing something that is helping the environment, but many experts predict that this is an area that will continue to grow.
Don't know Twitter from Facebook? Scared of using a blog or participating in online conversations? Need help navigating through the new and burgeoning world of social networks? You're not the only one.
In today's job search, social networking is becoming the name of the game. But what is this thing called social networking and how can you use it to find a job? One article offers some Q&A around the topic, and offers some practical tips in finding your way through these viral marketing tools.
One thing to remember - individual networks are tools, not strategies. Just because you use your Facebook account solely for professional purposes, doesn't mean that is the only place you should rely on to get a job.
It is very important to understand each tool and figure out which works best for you. I would recommend starting by creating a LinkedIn account, which is THE professional hot spot for staying connected to colleagues, former colleagues and industry peers. However, don't limit yourself to just one network. Take time to explore other networks, and ask your friends what they use.
One word of caution - if you do plan on using your account for your personal life and friends, I would suggest making an account only dedicated to your professional pursuits. This will keep your private and professional life separate.
When looking for a job, use a variety of tools and networking strategies. Just because it's the new buzz, doesn't mean it's the end all be all in landing your next job.
Q: Dear Seymour, My friends are taking any job offered to them, but aren't there factors I should never compromise on?
- Submitted by Jamie Seilers San Jose, California
A: Dear Jamie,
Some people have a hard time turning down offers, especially when the economy is tough, the news is often scary, and jobs seem scarce. However, just because a job is (or seems) to be available doesn't mean you should jump without thinking long and hard first.
Do your homework.
Not all businesses are ethical or even legitimate. It's very important to carefully research any company that offers you a job (this should be done before interviews, but more should be done if an offer is made). Do online research, but also ask around and see if anyone in your network or your friends' networks knows about the company or the people who have offered you the job.
Go with your gut.
If something doesn't seem right to you, it probably isn't. Furthermore, if any behavior by the people you interview with seems unprofessional or just doesn't feel right, listen to those feelings. If at any point you feel pressured to take the job without considering it or if you feel threatened or mistreated, turn it down.
Keep your eyes and ears open during the interview.
Before and during your interview, look around. What is the environment like? What are the people like? Does it seem like a well-run place where people are reasonably happy, or does the entire operation just seem wrong? Try visiting the restrooms--if they are clean, that's a good sign. If they are dirty, it could mean that coworkers have no pride in their workplace and may be an indicator of other major problems. If you are offered a job without an interview, that is a red flag. Do some serious research before you accept and ask why you are not being interviewed.
Don't let yourself get taken advantage of.
If you're asked to do a great deal of work before you are offered the job, walk away. Although is highly unethical, some businesses prey on the desperation of job seekers to try to get free work done in the name of the "interview process." Don't let businesses like that get the best of you. Also, if you're promised work but are told you will not be paid for any reason, end the relationship. Working without pay is not acceptable.
Don't let worry or fear of not finding the right position get you down. There are jobs out there, and taking one at just any company isn't the right thing. It may seem like a good quick fix, but quick fixes don't tend to last long and you could end up selling yourself short.
In Recruiter Q &A, experienced Spherion recruiters discuss the latest trends in the job market and provide advice on making the most of your job search. This month's recruiter, Andrea Dickinson was recently promoted to client service manager for Spherion. Andrea has been in the staffing industry for six years and enjoys NHRA drag racing, camping, cooking and gardening in her free time.
1. What are the advantages to utilizing a recruiter in my job search?
When you use a recruiter in your job search, you have someone that works with you from start to finish. A good recruiter will work to develop rapport and trust with you. It is also likely that the recruiter may have worked or done business with client companies that you would like to work with. Recruiters can also give great advice on resume writing and interview tips to job seekers. One of the biggest advantages in working with a recruiter is the added assurance that you are going to be a good fit with the client company once you are placed.
2. What skills are most in demand today?
The skills that are most in demand today are trade skills, management skills, computer skills and communication skills. Also, being versatile and having transferrable skills is a key selling point in today's job market.
3. What are some tips for first time job seekers or recent graduates coming into a job market that is proceeding cautiously with hiring decisions?
It is important to understand it is a tough and competitive job market. Before interviewing with a company, practice your responses to questions and act out possible scenarios. Do your research and learn as much about the history of the company so that you will be prepared to ask and answer key questions about the company's culture and objectives. Share examples with the interviewer of your experience and contributions while working for a previous employer.
This will help to distinguish you from other job seekers by showing that you have a vested interest in the position and can illustrate how your skills can contribute to the company. It is also always a good idea to attend as many networking events as possible and join social networking sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook.
4. Looking back over the many resumes that have fallen on your desk, which resume faux pas stands out the most that you would urge candidates to avoid?
Under no circumstances should you ever include a photo or detailed personal information on your resume. It is unecessary and irrelevent!
5. What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I love most about my job is the satisfaction and gratitude I receive by finding someone not only employment, but the next step in their career path.
The past couple of days have produced some positive news regarding the recession and the economic recovery. Now the talk of job recovery has crept into the media. This is really good news, especially those who have been out of work for weeks and months.
If the news is true and the job recovery has begun, here is a check list of must dos in preparing for the search:
- Make sure your resume is up to date and in order, listing your most recent experience and skills.
- Start making connections by networking and meeting professionals and peers in your line of work.
- Stay in touch with those from your last place of employment - they may be able to hire you back.
- Practice your interview skills and consider taking a couple of course to refresh or learn new skills.
- Get your interview clothes in order.
- Pound the pavement. Don't just rely on job boards and web sites, make personal visits to companies and visit job fairs that will surely become more and more frequent if the job market is turning around.
Also, take a minute to make a plan of action. Outline the type of job you want and narrow in on industries or employers that most interest you.
Prepare a written strategy - By strategy, I mean a cohesive response to the challenges you face! Your career is your business. Careers like businesses compete or fail based on strategy and execution. (The strategic planning process I recommend is described in my book, Boom or Bust!)
Study the market as it is becoming not as it once was! Here's the trick. You need to know where the jobs/careers are going to be - not where they once were. Fully half of today's jobs bear little resemblance to past jobs and by 2015 it is estimated by the U.S. Department of Labor that 76% of U.S. jobs will demand specifically skilled employees.
Complete a gap analysis clearly identifying what you "DON'T" have in your career portfolio that the marketplace needs. More than half the jobs/careers that are emerging require different or expanded skills, certifications or competencies than those jobs from your past. Confirm what you are missing.
Fill in the gaps by learning new skills BEFORE seeking rejection as an applicant for a prospective job or contractual project or, worse, actually interviewing for an opportunity for which you are not prepared. There are countless ways to prepare to learn new skills in record time - virtually, in person, through extension schools, and in community colleges and in universities' degree programs as well as through their extended studies. If you can't "fill in the blanks" with demonstrable qualifications, you won't beat the competition.
Understand and use multiple marketing tools and methodologies well beyond developing and posting a chronological resume to job boards. In point of fact, the lengthy chronological resume is the best screening out tool invented by human-kind - especially for people whose careers span many years.
Study sales training vs. interviewing training. Sales training includes prospecting methods, sales methods, and follow-up methods that consistently generate fresh opportunities. Henceforth you are in SALES regardless of your career path.
Distinguish facts vs. myths about older workers and leverage your advantages. Learning the facts and leveraging maturity's advantages are the keys to self-confidence and to overcoming the dreaded questions that lurk behind recruiters' welcoming façades.
Position your "sales close" by quantifying the benefits of hiring or engaging you. Now, more than ever, "quantifying" your ability to help an employer or client succeed is critical to receiving an offer.
Pursue multiple avenues; part-time, full-time, flex time and some-of-the-time opportunities. Dispel any nonsense about long-term employment. Private sector employers, and a growing number of public sector employers, will only pay for what they need and what you can accomplish.
Continue to build reputation throughout your work/life cycle. This involves more active participation in professional organizations, constant harvesting of opportunities as part of your plan and keeping an eagle eye on your reputation by honoring your commitments to others.
As the summer months approach, many families will be heading out for their annual vacations. Given the current job market, many of those folks will be opting to keep up their job search while on their break. Here's some advice and tips to help make the effort fruitful.
Consider your technology. You may have a wireless Internet gadget that would allow you to continue your job search normally. However, consider that not every location has great Internet access, which could make your search more difficult. Make sure you set an automatic response on your e-mail and voice mail to say you are out of town.
Do take time to relax. Job searching can be a drain, and it's not wrong to take time off now and then to recharge. You may find that a small break from searching gives you time to think of some fresh ideas for your search or even your career path.
Not all searches are via the Internet. You may be surprised where your next best job lead comes from. It's possible that a casual poolside conversation with a stranger could end up getting you some great career advice or even a new business contact. You never know who you'll meet! Networking is one of your strongest job search tools.
When you come back from your trip, try to ramp up your search efforts. It might be tempting to stay in "vacation" mode, but keep looking and the right job will come along!
"At an interview, you want to stand out for the right reasons. To do so, you'll need to leave your baggage and anxiety at the door." That's a quote from one article I recently read about how candidates should interview for a job.
Recently, The Big Time posted an entry about how important it is for candidates to go into an interview as a confident future employee, instead of a victim of economic circumstances.
Remember to stick to highlighting the positives of your experience and skills, and try to remain upbeat from start to finish. Hiring managers are well aware of the tough job market and companies downsizing, so there is no need to go into detail about how you lost your job to the economic downturn.
If you have had several interviews and still have not found a job, be sure that you are applying for the right jobs. Being turned down multiple times for jobs can be a blow to your confidence, but make sure that you are applying for the right positions to start with.
The job market may not seem to be getting any easier, but government reports show that people are in fact getting jobs. So stay confident, do your research and score that new job!
Q: Dear Seymour, I don't have a college degree. Are there any jobs out there in today's economy that don't require a college degree?
- Submitted by Bill Sedine, Covington, Georgia
A: Dear Bill,
You're not alone, and many would say that you're even in great company. Some of today's top professionals didn't get their college degrees, including Bill Gates and Oracle CEO Larry Ellison. You don't have to have a college education (and a burden of student loans) to be successful and have a rewarding career. Vocational training or an associate's degree may be needed, and all jobs will require on-the-job training, but many of today's fastest growing and recession-resistant careers don't require a four-year degree.
In fact, out of the top 15 fastest growing jobs for 2006-1026, ten do not require a college degree according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. So, check out the tips below to make the most of your career, degree or not.
Do a self-assessment.
Before you launch a new career, do a little research about different career options and also about yourself. Many of today's hottest non-degree positions include sales, education, law enforcement, construction, administration, transportation, and management. Think about who you are and what you like to do in your free time. Do you like to interact with people, or are you more technical? Are you great at organizing, or do you love working with your hands? Knowing your goals and being passionate about what you want will help you to land that first position in a new career.
Once you have a goal in mind, research the position and the industry.
When you have an idea of what you want to do and why, do a little more digging and find out what you would need to do to land a job in that field. What certificates, seminars, workshops, training, or even volunteer activities would boost your attractiveness as an applicant? Find out ways to start getting experience and knowledge that will help you get the job you want. Recent experience will be a great leg up as you start to apply.
Remember that personal qualities count.
Attitude is everything, and if you're great to work with and are clearly happy with what you're doing, people will want to hire you. Think about it--would you rather work with someone who dislikes their job, or with someone who is happy to be at work? Be dependable, positive and honest and you'll be the kind of person that anyone would want to hire.
If you know what you want, have goals, and are willing to do what it takes to land your dream job, you can find a job where you will be happy and successful--with our without a degree.
Some job seekers are starting to feel like Father Time is creeping in on their search. Three, six, nine months? A year? Some workers have been searching for jobs for what seems like an eternity.
It's times like these when job hunters begin to wonder if they need to change their resume, take a job they really don't want or just take the time to stop and smell the roses.
The latter may be easier said than done when you are trying to pay the bills, but according to one column, it might be the key to nailing your interview, especially for more mature workers.
When the job search becomes tedious and stressful, it might be time to decompress and find a distraction. Whether that's a hobby or taking a foreign language class, it might be something that can help you not only keep your composure, but help boost your confidence as well.
Take this new found confidence into the interview room. Not only will you come off as someone who has made lemonade out of lemons, but you will not come off as a "victim" of the economic circumstances that have affected so many.
Keep in mind that the market is also showing some signs of a turnaround, so your hunt may soon be coming to an end. Stay motivated and keep your chin up. Your confidence will shine through.
For all of those seeking a new job, it is important to make sure you have reliable references who can provide accurate information about your workplace performance.
Contacting references is generally one of the last steps before extending an offer to a prospective employee. So what happens if you have reached the point of having your references contacted, but never receive an offer?
First of all, a quick tip list of references dos and don'ts.
- Always ask if you may use someone as a reference, especially managers and former colleagues.
- Make sure you let your references know ahead of time that they will be contacted by your prospective employer.
- Be sure that your list of references includes a mixture of peers and managers. Ideally, include someone who worked for you, someone you worked with directly, and a manager.
- Stay in contact with anyone who may be a "go to" reference. It's difficult to include someone as a reference who you have not spoken to in several years.
Now that the formalities of references have been covered, let's get down to how references could be a road block to a new job.
One careers advice column mentions that some references may be out of pocket too often to be reliable. So try to avoid using those who travel frequently, or are usually involved with in person meetings.
If you find that you are getting to the reference stage, but not receiving an offer too many times, you may need to re-evaluate who your references are. Take an honest assessment of your relationship with your references, and make sure that you follow the etiquette list above.
Once you have assessed who your references are, and whether or not they are appropriate for the responsibility, but are still having problems with getting an offer, keep in mind that the job market is still on shaky ground. Some companies may think they are in a position to hire, but realize they have to wait.
I recently read an article about candidates who have interviewed for jobs, but never heard back from the interviewer or never received feedback for why they didn't get the job. It's a good article and even includes input from Spherion's very own Rebecca Callahan, senior vice president of Recruitment Process Outsourcing.
Unfortunately, the interview and rejection process has become very impersonal, leaving candidates to wonder whether or not they were/are qualified for the job. This can be frustrating and leave candidates with a feeling of discouragement.
As the article points out, some candidates have gone on multiple interviews and still have not had any success getting hired. And even if you can ask for feedback, many interviews will not be honest with you.
So what can you do? First of all, carefully examine the opportunity and be honest with yourself about whether or not you have the qualifications and experience to apply for the job. You should re-evaluate your expectations in regards to salary and benefits. You may be scaring away potential employers with your demands.
If all else fails you still can't seem to get your foot in the door, consider meeting with a careers coach or counselor who may be able to provide you with an objective opinion about what may be going on. They can evaluate your resume, interview skills and experience to make sure that you are pursuing the right jobs.
There are many reasons people might have missing spaces in their resume's work history. Some people have been laid off and have found it difficult to find new employment in a tough economy. Others may have taken time off for family reasons or have been recovering from an injury. Whatever your reason for missing work, there are several ways to still market yourself positively to a potential employer.
Here are some tips on how to fill in the gaps.
- Consider other activities you did or experiences you had while you weren't working. Just because something wasn't necessarily paid doesn't mean it doesn't count. If you volunteered, were involved in the community, completed special projects, or continued your education, put those activities in an Experience section. Describe them as if they were work experience and be specific about the positive skills you used or sharpened.
- Don't forget that a lot of marketing is in presentation. If you eliminate months from your resume and list years instead, gaps may not be as apparent. Make sure all aspects of your resume are clear and perfectly edited, which will distinguish you from many applicants immediately.
- A great objective can be an important first step to get your foot in the door. Create a prominent objective statement that outlines your abilities and skills, showcases your top experiences and qualifications, and glosses over exact timelines. Most hiring managers are short on time, and an objective could get more attention than exact dates.
- If you were previously involved in a specific industry, consider taking a course or two that will show you're keeping up with current changes and trends. This will show initiative and sincere interest in your career.
- If your reasons for missing work were personal--you raised a family, went back to school, or recovered from an injury--don't feel that you need to apologize. Life happens, and most potential employers understand. Don't let a negative or apologetic attitude take center stage over your positive attributes and tarnish what you have to offer.
The most important thing to remember when marketing yourself is to be positive and have a confident attitude. Don't let yourself get discouraged by gaps--use them to your advantage and show employers all the great skills and qualities you have to offer.
During these uncertain economic times, many workers may find themselves looking at job opportunities that do not fit their expertise...exactly. What many workers do not realize is that although they may not have an exact skills set to fit a job description to a "T", they may have enough to give them the leverage to be hired.
I came across this great article that outlines how employees should market their transferable skills during an interview. It offers advice about how to position your skills to interviewers and show your qualifications for the job.
What's important to remember is to prepare for your interview. You should always prepare ahead of time for any interview, but when you are entering into a situation where you may need to "sell" your skills a little more than usual, preparation is the key.
This is also an opportunity to gain additional experience that you may not have. So emphasize your desire to learn while pointing out the fact that you have the skills necessary to contribute to the company.
Keep in mind that you may also have skills that are unique to the position, or even unique to the company. So during your preparation, make a mental note of your unique skills, such as foreign language or experience organizing affinity groups.
So don't shy away from job opportunities just because you may not have all of the skills outlined in the job description. You may just have the perfect skills to compliment the responsibilities of the position.
Collecting unemployment benefits is on the rise due to the job market and economic downturn. If you are one of the many people recently laid off or if you believe that you are in danger of being laid off, be sure to learn as much as you can about unemployment insurance prior to applying.
As one article states, be prepared to do research for the state that you live in. Most workers assume that unemployment insurance is federally mandated. Although the Federal government sets some of the unemployment policies, the states impose most of the rules and run most of the programs.
Based on friends and relatives' experiences, don't assume that you qualify for the same benefits as others. Be sure you thoroughly read and understand the rules and regulations to ensure that you qualify.
Unemployment insurance is a huge help for those who have lost their jobs, but make sure you also understand the tax implications so there are no surprises on April 15th.
For the most accurate and up to date information about the unemployment insurance rules and possible changes, check out your state's workforce and labor department web sites.
Interviewing for a job can be stressful, and for those of you who have recently lost your job, there is more pressure to do well on upcoming job interviews.
So now is the time to brush up on your interview skills, and research some interviewing tips and styles to prepare.
The first thing to remember about interviewing is to stay professional. The interview is your opportunity to make a first impression. Dress accordingly and make sure that you are well groomed.
Don't let your guard down during an interview. It is a comfort to say "just be yourself", but in reality you should be aware that the interviewers will be scrutinizing your moves and answers.
Practice your interview skills with a close friend or relative, and if you feel you need extra practice, seek out the help of a career coach or counselor. They may be able to give you a leg up on practicing the process and provide you with objective feedback.
Some career experts say that interviews are like first dates. So follow the same rules that you would when meeting a date for the first time. In other words, don't reveal facts about yourself such as health problems or bad habits.
If the interviewer asks you about skills that could be improved upon, talk about skills you are interested in developing as opposed to pointing out your professional flaws.
Take interviews in stride and go in with confidence. Believing in yourself will not only help you to relax, but if you believe in you, others will too.
The other day, I caught a news report on CNN about workers who went from six-figure salaries to unemployment. One of the more interesting segments was about a man who told his story online at the CNN iReport section of the station's Web site. After sharing his story on iReport, he received an offer to work on a contract basis for a health care company.
Although unconventional, this was an example of how networking and sharing information about yourself and your work experience may lead to opening doors for a new career or employer.
Networking is still the best way to find a job, or at least make the contacts that can lead to a new job. But are you prepared to be a top-notch networker? Take a few minutes to do some research about the best places to network for employees working in your industry with your expertise.
Next, make a plan of action including a "to do" list of Web sites and networking communities to join, such as LinkedIn. The key in making sure these sites work of you is to come accustomed to visiting them daily for updates and to make new connections.
Don't be afraid to use unconventional means to network, but make sure you have the personality to pull off something quirky. I wouldn't necessarily recommend standing at an intersection wearing a sandwich board to advertise your qualifications, but you may want to consider using some of the newer methods of getting noticed. One suggestion would be to create your own YouTube video to deliver your elevator speech.
Networking doesn't always have to be a litany of after work mixers and overcrowded job fairs. Let creativity be your guide and get noticed for a new career.
With all of the news about layoffs and lost job opportunities, there are still industries that are hiring. A recent Big Time post pointed out some of the top employers in the country that are currently hiring. They include health care systems and hospitals, technology and accounting. But how can you go from a career in manufacturing to a job as a nurse?
With the economy down, now tends to be the time when workers consider going back to school to earn a different degree. The main concern is how to afford schooling, not only financially, but personally.
No doubt your lifestyle with change drastically. If you have children and household responsibilities, you will need to have help from a spouse or family member. You will also need to have a quiet, comfortable space where you can study and complete homework.
Financially, there are many opportunities for student aid. Many people believe that financial aid is for high school students, but the reality is that there is no age limit on student aid. You could also be eligible for scholarships through professional organizations.
Remember, if you are interested in pursuing a new career be sure that you are mentally ready for it. Returning to college is a huge investment personally and financially. Unless you are 100% committed, you could be wasting your time and money.
Have you recently lost your job, and are having a hard time finding a new one? You are not the only one. In fact, you are in the same boat as millions of workers who have been hit hard by the economic downturn. But, there are opportunities available for part time work with benefits.
That's right, I said part time jobs with employee benefits that may include health care, vacation and retirement funds. Check out this article for a list of part time job opportunities, which range from call center customer service representatives to retail sales clerk to temporary office assistant.
What's great about these jobs are that they can easily fit into a variety of career paths, and give you the opportunity to keep your skills sharp and add to some experience to your resume. Part time jobs also offer the flexibility you need to continue searching and interviewing for a full time job.
So don't be concerned if temporary or part time work is the only readily available option. It just may be the answer to help take the pressure off of being without a job, and can offer you benefits and flexibility to boot.
Q: Dear Seymour, Should I be aware of my body language in an interview?
- Submitted by Lauren Tull, Denver, Colorado
A: Dear Lauren,
Many interviewers don't think about the importance of body language in an interview, but what you do with your body could make a bigger impression than what you say. Simple unconscious gestures or postures can make you look interested or bored, engaged or distracted, weak or assertive. You want to make sure you communicate a good message both verbally and nonverbally.
It starts with a handshake.
When your interview comes to greet you, be ready. Make sure your appearance is put together before you show up--don't smooth hair or adjust ties when you stand up to greet them. Avoid the limp, "dead fish" handshake. Shake confidently but not too firmly and make eye contact when you say hello.
Remember the key "don'ts."When interviewing, several things are important to avoid. Don't rub the back of your neck because it will make you seem disinterested. Don't touch your nose; this could make you appear dishonest, and it may be considered unhygienic or inappropriate. Make sure you don't shake your foot or tap your fingers because it will make you seem impatient. Slouching or staring blankly will also make you seem unprepared and distant.
Think about space.
Personal space is important, so never get closer than about 20 inches to your interviewer. Invading their space could make them uncomfortable and distract them. Also consider space when applying perfume or cologne. Scents give many people headaches and can seriously affect people with allergies. When deciding on how much scent to use, just skip it or use as little as possible.
Be aware of your behavior and make it positive.
Sit up straight and don't lean or slouch back in your chair. Nod and make positive gestures to show you are listening, but don't nod too much or you may look like a bobblehead. Make good eye contact, and if you are being interviewed by more than one person, make eye contact with everyone.
End on a strong note.
When saying goodbye, follow the same rules you used when making a great entrance. Make sure your goodbye handshake is still strong but not crushing. Be direct when leaving and proceed to your next destination before you let your guard down--you don't want anyone to see your victory dance in the parking lot.
Don't forget to practice your body language when you practice interview questions. Be aware of your body and you'll be sure to convey a positive message.
Let's face it, the job market is tough and getting tougher. Layoffs are mounting and fewer companies are hiring. But the opportunities are there for employment, you just have to find them and work hard at getting your foot in the door.
Knowing that the market is more difficult, some workers may feel compelled to take the first job they are offered, even if they are not interested in it. Forbes recently printed an article about this very subject, and it made me think about how fear can lead to someone taking a job that they do not want.
More and more, fear is leading people to take desperate measures to make ends meet, including working jobs that may be perceived as dead ends. However, just because you have not been offered your dream job, doesn't mean the position is not without its own merits.
First of all, you have to weigh the pros and cons of the company and the job. You may find that the job is a short-term solution and stepping stone in your career. Particularly if this is your first job, you can gain some of that on the job experience that might be critical for other employers to consider you for your next job.
Consider making lemonade out of lemons. If the job isn't quite what you had in mind, it might still be a valuable learning environment for your career down the road. Work experience is not just about gaining more skills, it's about learning how to work with different personalities and management styles, and this may be your time to learn these important lessons.
Hopefully you are not in a position where you have to apply for jobs that are outside of your area of expertise or interest. But if you are, these opportunities can serve their purpose as well. Take the time to learn a new skill or further develop some of the skills you may already possess.
Although a job offer may not be exactly what you are looking for, it doesn't mean that you should not consider it for the time being. You can develop, and learn, some valuable skills to set the pace for your future career.
Think the job market is all doom and gloom? Think again, at least for some industries. Fortune recently published its list of the top companies to work for, and along with the list came a top 20 of those companies that are recruiting the most.
Among the industries listed are those in financial services, healthcare, technology, and supermarkets.
Supermarkets might be a surprising area, but many workers overlook the fact that retail and non-retail positions are available. That means IT-related and accounting jobs, as well as in-store positions.
So if you think the job market is completely hopeless, check out employers who fall into these specific categories and you might find yourself off the unemployment line faster than you are expecting.
Q: Dear Seymour, How Has the Wall Street Collapse Changed How I Job Search?
- Submitted by Beverly Buck, Washington DC
A: Dear Beverly,
There is no arguing with the fact that the current economy is tough. Massive layoffs and spiking unemployment set a difficult stage for the increasing number of people who are searching for jobs. However, there are still opportunities out there if you maintain a positive attitude, know where and how to look, and know how to market yourself.
Remember that opportunities exist, but you have to look in the right places.
Expand your search from Internet-only engines or online job boards. Get out there and network through professional associations, job search groups, or even social groups. Many open jobs are never posted online or advertised; the best opportunities are discovered through word of mouth, networking, and informational interviews. Don't be afraid to get creative with your job search and assertively seek opportunities.
Market yourself.
Make sure that every aspect of how you market yourself is as positive and put together as possible. Polish your resume and remove all imperfections; make sure everything is clear, organized, and free of errors. Practice and sharpen your interview skills so that whether you have an impromptu informational interview or a planned job interview, you are ready with answers to why you're the top candidate for the job.
Know what you bring to the table.
Be prepared with specifics on what you can contribute to a business or team. Companies are looking for ways to positively impact their bottom line, so be able to show ways that you made or saved money for an employer or clients. Don't forget that the employer wants to know how you will contribute and what you can do for them, so be ready to answer those questions.
Look at this tough economy as an opportunity to get creative with your job search. There are absolutely jobs out there--you just have to know where and how to look and be ready when you have a chance to market yourself. You can do it!
Ahhh...the holidays. Good food, good fun and time spent with good family and friends. But wait a minute. Don't you need a job? This may have seemed like down time, especially for recent graduates, but just because the holidays were here doesn't mean that you shouldn't be continuing your job search.
As a matter of fact, this is the perfect time for recent graduates to dedicate focus on finding a job. One article points out the many tasks that can be undertaken, as well as ideas to keep your job search top of mind.
One thing to remember is that there are more workers looking for employment than this time last year. So competition may be stiff and there are probably fewer jobs available. You have to do what you can to stand out from the crowd and get noticed as the person who should be hired.
While spending time with friends and family, ask them their expertise on the topic of finding a job and what their employers are looking for from new candidates. Seek out their advice about how to impress a hiring manager and the type of answers they are looking for during an interview.
Now that you have the down time, use the holidays to your advantage and focus on the job search.
Q: Dear Seymour, I want to go to university and study psychology, however I have a criminal record will this stop me pursuing a career as a psychologist?
- Submitted by Desrine
A: Dear Desrine,
Please do not let any past mistakes stop you from pursuing your dreams. Psychology is an excellent field, and you may have the life experience that sets you apart from others pursuing this career.
In other words, you should consider pursuing your psychology degree by taking a track that may fit what you have learned through your own personal experiences. Formal training, combined with real-life experience could make you an excellent candidate to counsel at-risk children or youths and help them avoid the same mistakes.
What's important is that you stay on the straight and narrow, and prove that you have made the changes to show that what's in the past is truly in the past. If this is achieved, they you may be able to find employment in other areas such as social work or even as a counselor within the criminal justice system.
So go ahead, and pursue your degree. I know that you can make it work for you!
Q: Dear Seymour, After 14 years at a company, as a tailor, my department was downsized. I decided to change careers and got Microsoft Office Training. I would like to work as an administrative assistant but having no previous experience plus not being a fast typist, combined with competition from the growing volume of unemployed candidates I am losing all confidence that I am hirable. I practice typing daily and search the online job listings. Also, I have contacted a few job placement agencies. Because of my lack of experience they have turned me away. Should I keep trying other agencies? Have you got any suggestions as to what I could do next?
- Submitted by Roxann
A: Dear Roxann,
You are probably tired of hearing, "if at first you don't succeed, try again". So I am not going to tell you that, although it is very true when you are searching for a job. You have a unique situation as a career changer, so here is my advice.
First and foremost, your initiative to take Office training is commendable and on the right track, but as someone who is entering into a new field after 14 years, it seems to not be enough to be hired. So, check out a local community college or trade school that offers classes in administrative assistants. You may not be in the position to pursue a full degree, but showing that you are pursuing some kind of formal training will elevate your status with future employers.
If you are having a difficult time financing classes at a trade school or college, contact your local workforce assistance office. Often times, you may find classes for low cost or no cost if you are willing to dedicate your free time and weekends to attending.
Experience is key to proving you are ready for a new job, so you may also consider volunteering your time to work in the front office of a church, non-profit organization or local school. Although you would be volunteering, you cannot expect a paycheck, but it may give you that valuable "real life" experience that you need to get your foot in the door.
Once you have some formal training and experience under your belt, you'll probably find it easier for staffing agencies to take the chance on placing you, and employers who are looking for someone hungry to jump into a new career.
Q: Dear Seymour, I am having trouble obtaining suitable employment because I have a felony from 1990. Even though I have a BA degree in Marketing from an accredited business school and 8 years supervisory experience in this field with an excellent record of achievement, doors are constantly being slammed in my face. Please advise.
- Submitted by Don
A: Dear Don,
It sounds like you have the experience needed to get your foot in the door with other employers, but something isn't quite working. This is a question that has been asked before, so you are not alone in combating this issue.
Since it sounds as though you have been employed elsewhere, it may not be your criminal record that is keeping you from finding a job. To be sure, you may want to contact someone you have interviewed with in the past, and ask them point blank. If it's not the record that's holding you back, it may be something else that you can correct and make you a more qualified candidate.
If the record is the issue, you may want to consider having your record sealed or expunged. If this is something you haven't tried to do, I would first try to take that route. Another is that you have to accept any job, even if it's outside of your expertise. Building a successful track record on the job may be what you need to move past your record.
Furthermore, try contacting your local or state employment office, and ask if there are any programs that may help ex-offenders re-enter the workforce.
Hope this helps, and let us know how the job search goes.
During this time of economic and job uncertainty, workers are not necessarily feeling confident in their personal situations. But today, I came across a rare article about workers who are genuinely happy with their careers, even during rough times.
So which professions do these content employees work for? The article I found mentioned a top 10 list of the following:
Talk about running the gamut of industries! But what I find most interesting is the that a couple of the professions listed may be perceived as difficult (special ed teacher) or dangerous (firefighters). With this article, however, is proof that these careers are not only viable options, but the reality is that those who work in these fields are satisfied with their job choices.
I am curious to know how our Big Time readers feel about their career field (not necessarily employer....there's a big difference), but their career field. Let us know if your industry isn't listed above, and whether you consider yourself happy. And, for those considering a new career, check out some of the suggestions above, you might just find your calling, and find contentment at the same time.
I recently read an article about punctuality in the workplace, and it donned on me that on-time performance seems to have gone my the wayside, a la business casual. Many employees have taken for granted or become just plain lazy about getting to work or meetings, or even conference calls on time.
OK, once in a while one meeting will overlap into the next, but consistent tardiness is truly an annoyance and it's just plain rude and disrespectful. Not only to your manager, but to your entire team.
So here are my five tips to help manage your time:
If at all possible try to schedule a 15 minute between any calls or meetings. Not only will it help you keep from short-changing one event, but you can be better on time for the next. Set your alarm 15 to 20 minutes earlier than you normally would, and make a concerted effort to show up for work on time.
Know your calendar ahead of time. If you know you have an early morning meeting or call, either adjust your regular routine to be there on time, or plan on taking the call from home so you don't miss a beat.
If you commute and live in a high traffic area that makes you habitually late, at least have the courtesy to call ahead and let the team know. Also be in the habit of staying later to make up for the time you missed in the morning.
Talk to your manager and explain your commuting situation. They may allow you to work a schedule that in more conducive to traffic.
Just remember that punctuality is as important to your team and your manager, as producing good results. If you try to be on time, and it still isn't working, you may want to consider some time management or organizational courses to help you get on track.
Check out our newest column. In Recruiter Q &A, experienced Spherion recruiters discuss the latest trends in the job market and provide advice on making the most of your job search. This month's recruiter, Jorge Roca, is a senior direct hire recruiter and has consistently been the top producer in staffing for the last four years. He has more than 10 years experience in the recruiting industry.
1. How long have you been recruiting and what advice would you give to others interested in being a recruiter?
I have been a recruiter for 10 years. For those interested in pursuing a career in recruiting, the best advice I can give you is to have thick skin and more importantly- have a passion for it. I am in this profession because I love to help others. This could a very rewarding career, professionally and personally. Recruiting is sales and you have to be a sales person. The difference is in the candidates you sell. If you believe in your candidates it becomes more than a sale, it is a responsibility and honor to put the right person in place. Success is measured only by the employees that build an organization and the recruiter's role is without a doubt the most important piece of the puzzle.
2. Is it okay to work with more than one recruiter at the same time?
If you are a highly skilled individual, more than likely you have been in this situation before: multiple recruiters trying to place you because of how valuable you are. While that dilemma doesn't seem so horrific, it can be if 5-6 recruiters are sending your resume to all the same place multiple times. Remember, recruiters are generally paid on commission. That means they only get paid if the person they present gets hired. If two recruiters submit the same resume and you get hired, the potential employer now has the dilemma of potentially paying two separate recruiter fees. On the other hand, if you are trying to get a position that is already in high supply or have a larger geographic region to potentially be placed, it might be best to work with multiple recruiters. In my opinion, the best bet is to be open and honest from the start. This can only benefit the relationship that you have.
3. What are the top 3 questions a job-seeker should ask a recruiter when he/she calls?
a. What do you specialize in?
b. How long have you been doing this?
c. What does your contact list look like?
4. What is the biggest misconception that job seekers have?
Your resume should be one page.
5. What is the biggest misconception about recruiters?
We don't have good jobs. Recruiters can pin-point career opportunities. We have more access to small and mid-size corporation. Most companies will post positions because it is important for them to go through the correct protocol before outsourcing an opportunity. They need to justify that they have taken every measure to fill the role before agreeing to pay a fee. Most successful recruiters have established relationships with their clients giving them the ability to present your resume accordingly. Most of the times if you come with the precise fit you will get the opportunity to interview for the role regardless of the fee or protocol involved. A good recruiter who has always had the client's best interest in mind will certainly be able to circulate your resume quickly and efficiently.
Recruiter Bloopers: I once saw a candidate take their puppy to the interview and leave it with the receptionist!
Q: Dear Seymour, I just got a job offer, but I also have a planned vacation coming up. What's the best way to tell my new employer that I already need to be out of the office?
- Submitted by Liz Messer, Orlando, Florida
A: Dear Liz,
Congratulations on your offer! Having to negotiate early vacation time is a common situation with many new employees. It's understandable that you want to be professional and set a positive tone before you begin. Here are some tips on how to have a professional conversation about getting days off in a new job.
Be honest. The best way to approach your new employer is with honesty. Most employers are very understanding about pre-planned vacations. When you discuss your start date, tell them that you already have a vacation planned and let them know when you will not be available to work. Politely ask how they would like to handle the days off.
Be clear. Make sure you tell the employer exactly what days you need off. It's also important to fully understand the company's policy on vacation days and pay. If you start work before your vacation, your days off may not be paid. If your position is salaried, the employer may want to pay you an hourly rate until after your vacation. Whatever your agreement is, make sure both you and your employer are clear on the terms so there is no confusion or unmet expectations later.
Be flexible. Even if your vacation days are set in stone, try to be flexible and reach a compromise with your employer. The employer may want to delay your start date, or they may prefer that you begin as soon as you can and miss days after you begin. Even if you can only work one day before your time off, some employers may want you to come in to meet people, fill out paperwork, and get acquainted before you leave.
Beware. If your employer has a problem with your time off and is unwilling to compromise, you may want to reevaluate whether or not the job is really for you. Everyone needs a vacation now and then, and it's important to work with someone who understands that your personal life counts, too.
Whatever your compromise is, best of luck with your new job and have a great time on your trip!
Q: Dear Seymour, I am a recent graduate of Metropolitan State University. I have a bachelors degree in criminal justice, and for the life of me I still cannot find a job! Anyone know what kind of jobs I am even eligible to apply for? Help!
- Submitted by Justice
A: Dear Justice,
First of all, I congratulate you for choosing such a noble profession! Now, the good news is that there are a number of areas where a criminal justice degree can be useful. The bad news is there are a number of areas where a criminal justice degree can be useful. What do I mean by that?
You chose field where there are several possibilities for job opportunities. Since you did not mention the types of jobs you have been applying for, I am assuming based on your poor luck in finding a job that you haven't applied to be a police officer. Law enforcement is one of the hottest careers to enter into today, and there are many opportunities to be an officer or investigator, even if you are not cut out to be in patrol or work in the jails.
Another good area where you can utilize your degree is social work or as a probation officer. These areas are constantly looking for qualified professionals who have degrees in criminal justice and are interested in helping people.
You might also want to consider a career in private security or pursue a further degree in criminal law. If these are areas that do not interest you, you may want to take a personality/workplace test to pinpoint where you would best be suited to utilize your strengths and talents.
Best of luck!
Seymour
Check out our newest column. In Recruiter Q &A, experienced Spherion recruiters discuss the latest trends in the job market and provide advice on making the most of your job search. This month's recruiter, Stephanie Poole, has more than 10 years in the staffing industry and is the top direct hire recruiter in Houston.
1. What are the advantages of using a recruiter in my job search?
Candidates who utilize staffing agencies and recruiters have access to jobs that are not necessarily listed on traditional job boards and that are available now. We have the tools to locate the companies that best match the position they are looking for instead of the candidate blindly mass-applying to a multitude of jobs that come across in their job search. It is certainly more effective and less time-consuming to utilize the services a recruiter can provide you, as opposed to looking for the perfect fit and not knowing where to find it. A recruiter can serve as a valuable partner in any candidate's job search.
2. What are some tips for first time job seekers or recent graduates coming into a job market that is proceeding cautiously in making hiring decisions?
Take time to consider your job search as if you were hiring someone for your own business. Consider your talents and experiences and really present those as individual selling points. Ask yourself how would you be an asset to a company?
It is also a good idea to consider internships pre and post graduation. There are a wide variety of summer internships available to new or recent graduates that serve as a great way to get your foot in the door and learn more about the company you would ideally like to work for.
I also recommend networking as much as possible, attending job fairs and exploring professional social networking sites such as LinkedIn.
3. What types of things can candidates do to distinguish themselves from the pack?
Do your homework. Have a general understanding of the company. A great place to start is by visiting the company's Web site for recent news, press releases and corporate events they may have sponsored or participated in. This will show the person you are interviewing with that you are interested in the company and that you have taken the time to get to know more about them. Also, keep track of where you are sending resume and be sure to follow-up with recruiters and companies. It's ok to pick up phone and request an interview. Above all, you must have confidence and understand your skills. Certainly don't be afraid to ask the employer for their hiring process timeline.
4. What is the biggest misperception about recruiters?
That we do not offer competitive wages and that we charge a fee for our services. However, we do work for our candidates to present the most competitive wages and absolutely do not charge our candidates for our services. Job seekers should never have to pay for the services of a recruiter.
The job market has slowed considerably, and for many workers that means having a hard time finding a new one after a lay off, or if you want a change of scenery.
I certainly would not recommend or encourage workers to switch jobs during these uncertain times. But for those who may have lost a job, now might be the time to consider a whole new career altogether.
Many private sector jobs, government, health care, law enforcement and education in particular, are still hiring at a healthy rate. Now, switching careers can be intimidating and require additional education or certification, but some employers in these industries are willing to pay for it if you commit to working for them after you receive the training and education needed.
I recently read an article about how easy/difficult it is to find a job in certain areas of the country. So you may have to do a little research about which jobs and employment sectors are strong for your particular city or region. But research shows that, for the most part, private sector jobs are still thriving in an otherwise weakened job market.
So if you have always wanted to be a nurse, or try your hand at being a police detective, now may be the time to take the plunge.
Whether you are looking for a job or making connections for business, networking is extremely important. But, it's not easy for everyone to walk up to complete strangers, introduce themselves and strike up a conversation.
I read an article that offers several tips for making networking and speaking engagements easier. Many of these are good tricks to the trade, and will instill confidence if you are nervous or unsure about how to operate in an uncomfortable situation.
What's important to remember is that practice makes perfect. First of all, be sure to set goals for yourself and what you want to accomplish at a networking or speaking engagement. Always practice how to introduce yourself and what you plan on saying to an individual or audience.You can also consider the possibility of taking a public speaking class or attend Toastmasters courses as well.
Also, the more you do it, the easier it will be. So if you stumble or things don't work our as well as you had hoped, don't shy away from going out there and trying again.
Before you know it, making those connections and standing out in a crowd will be second nature.
Economic times may be tough, and finding a job right now may be tougher. For those companies that are hiring, they may be more selective about who they hire. In these tighter economic times, you may have to stand out in a crowd to get a job, and according to one article I found, the quirkier the gimmick to get a job, the better.
Some of the ideas the article mentions (wearing a sandwich board with your credentials in traffic, sending a shoe asking to get a foot in the door) are quite extreme and may not fit your personality. These extreme techniques may also backfire if the company you are interested applying to work for isn't assumed.
If you do want to stand out from the crowd, but don't want to take the extreme measures to get the interview, try looking into alternatives to a traditional resume or use social networking.
Regardless, don't do anything that you feel uncomfortable with or you don't think you could pull off as a natural part of your personality. And remember, if all else fails, stick to business dress and a clean, formal resume.
When considering a career, I believe that many people choose career paths for the wrong reasons. Money, status, participation in a family business. These are all valid reasons to choose a career, but it doesn't mean that it will personally satisfy you.
I read an article from U.S. News about choosing jobs that are a fit with your personality. Now, it's not always easy to determine exactly how to describe your personality, but here are a couple of categories to think about:
These are only a few areas to consider, finding your calling based on your interests and what fits your personality might be a start in the right direction for finding the perfect career, or shed some light on why your current career may not be working for you.
Have you ever felt like a small fish in a big pond of applicants? Perhaps it will help quell your apprehension if you gain a competitive edge of knowledge before entering into a corporate talent pool.
One article that I came across offers very good points about researching companies to whom you are interested in submitting a resume. It definitely offers ideas about where to focus your research, and what you should learn about a company while preparing for an interview.
But company research has evolved from the typical career fair networking and corporate Web site review. Here are a few other places to learn more intimate details about a company you are interested in applying for a job.
First, take a look at some of the social networking sites. Many companies have moved to MySpace and Facebook to market themselves to potential candidates. This would give you opportunity to ask questions about the company, its culture, and perhaps even the department you are interested in working with.
Next, visit a company's careers Web site and check out if there are options to receive information via email about company news and updates. This will give you an intimate look inside the company and provide a real time description of the goings on with the corporate culture.
Although they aren't as common as they probably should be, some companies are also developing corporate blogs with fresh content. Now, you can find those that are employee-generated such as Mini Microsoft, a Microsoft employee's blog. Here you can find useful information about the inner workings of the company, and what may be some of the "hot topics" among the workforce. However, you do have to remember that this is from an employee's point of view, who may or may not have had a good day with any given post.
These research areas, coupled with the basic Web site searches, will keep you head's above the competition. And at the very least, make you as prepared as possible for your interviews.
Q: Dear Seymour, I am a college student full time. Money is hard to come by. Is there a legit online job or something of that nature I could do to earn extra cash? So many scams out there its hard to tell which ones are real. Any suggestions?
- Submitted by Anonymous
A: Dear College Student,
This is a common problem among full time students, finding time to earn extra money. You are right, many online jobs are either scams, or not what they appear to be according to the job posting. So it's true, you do have to be careful. It's important to understand that most online jobs are probably going to be aggressive sales jobs, which not everyone is cut out for. Not to mention the chance you take of getting involved with outfits that send email spam.
Many people looking to make extra turn to services such as Amazon or eBay to sell items they no longer needs. Perhaps old text books, or used CDs that are just collecting dust. Online sales can definitely get you cash fast, but it can also be time consuming with having to ship items to buyers.
Although you are taking classes full time, you might still have more time than you think to pick up a part-time job, or one with flexible scheduling to accommodate school schedules. Try looking on campus. Sometimes jobs are open for students to work in administrative offices, bookstores, or on-campus restaurants. This offers you a convenience factor, and managers understand the need to adhere to school schedules. Not only do you earn some income, but you have a good start to your resume.
One other idea is to find an internship associated with your degree. Again, you will find flexible scheduling, but make sure to look for paid internships or at least one that offers a stipend to take care of some of your financial stress.
If you find that you are too strapped to continue a full school schedule, you might want to consider cutting down your class schedule and selecting a part-time job in retail or an office. This will help you resist the temptation of using your credit cards to live. Although this may delay your graduation a bit, or put you in a position to attend summer school, at least you can keep credit card debt ay bay.
Hope these suggestions help you find something that works. Best of luck!
A recent Big Time post addressed the issue of strange interview questions are how to handle them. This week, we talk about the opposite - bad interview answers and embarrassing moments.
I came across a Fortune article that covers the subject of dumb job interview moves from candidates. Some of the examples of stupid interview moves include:
"The candidate got his companies confused and repeatedly mentioned the strengths of a competing firm, thinking that was who he was interviewing with."
"A guy called me by the wrong name during the entire interview."
"We're a retail company, and when we asked the candidate why she wanted to work for us, she replied that she didn't want to work in retail anymore."
"An interviewee took his bubble gum out of his mouth and held it in his hand. Then he forgot about it and shook hands with me."
Now, being nervous and giving answers that may not be the most compelling is one thing, but not paying attention and being completely checked out of your surroundings is quite different.
Some interview "errors" are unavoidable, such becoming ill or stumbling over your words. As a matter of fact, recovering from these blunders may actually work in your favor.
If you have made a mistake or blunder, try not to let it derail the rest of your interview. Hiring managers and interviewers are human, and will understand nerves or issues that cannot be avoided. So make up for it as best as possible.
There will be a chance the interview isn't salvageable. If this is the case just chalk it up to experience and move on. Don't beat yourself up over interview mistakes either. Learning from your blunders will help you better prepare for your next interview.
The high cost of living has forced many baby boomers to come out of retirement to once again start earning a paycheck.
Some boomers have yet to retire, choosing to work well into their 60's. For some though, this is an opportunity to work in a field where their job has more meaning than their lifelong career.
USA Today recently published an article about some of the fields that baby boomers are choosing for their second careers, or even choosing to switch to even before retiring. Those fields include health care, teaching, social work and even environmental projects.
Not only do these jobs provide a paycheck, but they also give workers a sense of giving back to the community.
This is also a time for workers who are close to retirement to consider turning a hobby into a product, such as photography or cooking.
For those who are considering a second job, this is a time to be creative...and as the saying goes: "do what you love and love what you do"!
Think about the last time you had a job interview. Remember what it was like, sitting in the lobby of a building or office, nervous, wondering if you are dressed professionally, thinking about possible questions and how you would answer them.
You are called into the interview. Introduce yourself to the interviewer, hand them your resume, and wait for the questions to start. The first question - If you were a fruit, what kind of fruit would you be and why? Huh!?
Believe it or not, many interviewers are moving towards a trend of asking silly, if not down right weird interview questions. One article points out how strange and tricky questions can be.
So how do you answer these questions? First of all, don't feel bad for being caught off guard. More than likely, this is part of the reason why the interview is asking the question, to see how creative you can be, quick on your feet.
Don't try to be too technical with your answer. If all else fails, take an "easy" approach to answering an odd question. For example with the fruit question, I would probably say an apple (they're my favorite fruit, so when I hear "fruit" I think "apple"). Then I would say, "Because they are versatile, and stand out in a crowd."
There are really no right or wrong answers here, as long as you stay professional and try not to oversimplify your answer. Back to the fruit question, I wouldn't say "Apple... because they are sweet and pretty."
You could also try humor with your answer, as long as it's not offensive. Humor is also tricky because it could fall flat.
What are some of the strangest interview questions you have been asked and how did you answer them? If you are an interviewer, have you ever used these types of questions? What was the reason why you used them and would you continue to ask them?
Q: Dear Seymour, I've been hearing a lot of debate lately about whether or not job boards truly are effective in finding and landing a job. I am currently job searching and would appreciate any insight you may have to offer. Thanks!
- Submitted by Rohan Vargas, Las Vegas, NV
A: Dear Rohan,
Yes, the debate over the effectiveness of job boards is not dying down anytime soon. However, as a job seeker, your best rule of thumb is to use all your job search techniques - which most certainly should include job boards. Online recruitment is a $6 billion industry so it certainly must have some level of effectiveness.
Most job seekers use an average of five different job boards to look for their next opportunity, and that should include using a couple "big boards" like CareerBuilder.com or Monster.com, as well as specialty or niche boards within your profession.
Also, keep in mind that not all job boards are considered equal. Here are the results of a recent survey by Weddles, a major U.S. publisher of print guides to Internet job hunting, where actual job hunters, employers and recruiters rank their favorite job boards:
For a ranking of niche job boards, visit www.weddles.com.
So remember, job boards should definitely be on your "job search" to do list. Just be sure to avoid putting all your eggs in one basket. In addition to job boards, you should be networking, seeking employee referrals, contacting recruiters, and scouring print classifieds.
Q: Dear Seymour, I'm ready to take the next step in my career and therefore have been looking for a new job over the past several months. A close friend of mine thinks I may be pursuing jobs that are too far out of my league, but I want to stretch myself. Any advice?
- Submitted by Darrell Etgar, Chattanooga, TN
A: Dear Darrell,
For aggressive and confident career-minded adults like yourself, the pursuit of the next rung in the corporate ladder means landing an opportunity that stretches your abilities, and at the same time, your pocketbook. While it is possible to land a job that you can "grow into," you should be wary of the potential pitfalls of seeking a stretch job that in the end may be out of your league. Here are some things to consider:
- Is it a stretch or a breaking point?
Your first step is to evaluate whether a potential job is just enough of a stretch or way out of your league. If the position you are seeking is going to require skills you don't have, determine a realistic timeframe of your learning curve.
Will you be able to acquire the needed skills to be successful within 30 days? 60 days? Are there training classes you can take or friends willing to mentor you in order to speed up the learning curve? If the skills you'll need to turn in a stellar performance can't be mastered within 30 days, then chances are the position is out of your league.
- Stretching the truth on your resume means you're stretching too far.
Another glaring sign that indicates you're seeking a job that's out of your league is stretching the truth on your resume. If your resume is filled with little "white lies" that embellish your experience and abilities, you're likely headed for disaster.
In fact, your dreams could get squashed before you even land the job. For example, you may have listed a technical skill on your resume that in reality, you've only dabbled in, only to be surprised with an assessment test during your interview.
- Start stretching before you leap.
If you're even considering looking for a stretch opportunity, it's safe to assume you aren't growing or being challenged in your current role. But before you trade in your old job for a more stimulating one, identify any gaps between your current skill set and what will be required at more advanced-level positions.
Are there gaps you can begin to close while you are still on the job? For example, if you are seeking a management position but don't have any experience supervising others, consider volunteering to lead a committee or hire an intern. While not formal managerial functions, they will give you a chance to better prepare yourself to take on a supervisory role, and serve as examples to reference during your pursuit for the stretch role.
Before you find yourself in a situation where you go to work every day on pins and needles, wondering when your colleagues or boss will "find you out," make sure you've truly evaluated whether that dream job is an achievable stretch or one that will stretch you to the breaking point.
Searching for a job can be a job in of itself. And starting with career fairs can feel like you are in the thick of the rat race.
Competition can be stiff, and one article points out how important it is to stand out in the crowd. It could mean the difference between leaving with a job opportunity, or leaving empty-handed.
How do you differentiate yourself from the other candidates? Career fairs are supposed to be part of the informal interview process, a way to explore companies and opportunities in a group setting. But you should still treat it as the first impression for a potential employer.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Always bring multiple copies of your resume.
- Dress professionally, as if going to a sit down formal interview at an office.
- If possible, conduct research before hand about the companies that will be attending the fair.
- Have questions ready. This may be the best opportunity to find out if the companies are a right fit for you as an employer.
- Stay engaged. Career fairs can be exhausting, but try to keep you energy level up as much as possible to stay enthusiastic.
- Pick up business cards from those who you meet. You might not have the chance to spend a lot of time with the companies you are interested in and will have to set up a time for a follow up. Make sure you stay in contact with those you meet by collecting business cards and sending thank you/reminder notes about your expertise.
What are employers looking for? It depends -- every employer seeks a different mix of skills and experience from a prospective employee. But one thing they look for consistently is soft skills.
This month's video podcast highlights the importance of defining your soft skills while in an interview. Your resume doesn't tell the whole story, so make sure your social skills shine as much as your work skills.
What are soft skills? Soft skills are intrapersonal and interpersonal skills that determine a person's ability to excel or at least fit in a particular social structure, such as a project team or a company. These skills include competencies in areas such as Emotional Intelligence (EI), communication, leadership ability, etiquette, conflict resolution, decision making, self-motivation, self-discipline, persuasion, social graces, personal habits, friendliness, and optimism that mark people to varying degrees. Soft skills complement hard skills, which are the technical requirements to a job.
Remember the phrase from your report card -- "works and plays well with others"? That's a critical soft skill, and there are many more, all of them important for any job in any industry. More and more corporations around the world recognize that, in order to gain a competitive advantage, they also need to make sure their people know how to handle themselves at work and how to relate with their customers and peers.
Check out the rest of my series of Recruiter Tips in the coming weeks. I hope that you find them useful and good luck!
I recently read a blog post about looking for and landing your second career opportunity. The first job you work out of college will be your entrée into the career world. A glimpse of what's to come. Although it isn't a full education about workplace, it is a stepping out of the college life and into the career life.
Your second job, however, will set the stage for future endeavors and employment opportunities. Your second job can certainly be the most critical leap for your career. So what should you do to make sure the job search yields the best options for job number two?
The blog post points out the importance of updating your resume with the experiences from your first job. So there is lesson number one. Make sure that you are squeezing as much skill development and learning out of your first employer and job experience.
Secondly, take your networking to the next level. Make sure that you are joining professional industry organizations where you can interact with experienced workers, get advice on choosing your next job, or perhaps getting a lead on a job opening.
Also, be prepared to start utilizing your own instincts and taking more of a proactive role in choosing the right next step. When you start to interview for second jobs, ask questions about the company's culture, values, and workplace environment. Would you be a good fit? You should also consider asking how employees with your same level of experience are mentored so that you can continue to grow and acquire more skills.
Your second job should be viewed as the time when you get serious about your career. It's when you take what you have learned and start applying it more independently to projects and tasks.
So, take care when choosing your next employer and get ready to jumpstart your future!
Losing your job can be a terrible experience, and the psychology behind it can throw you for a loop. If you are fired, at least you can come to terms with it by assuming some of the responsibility and changing a behavior that may be trouble at work.
But if you are laid off from your job, it may be harder to come to terms with it and you could find yourself asking nagging questions about why you were chosen and not others. Even though you know it's not because of your abilities, the fact that you were chosen to lose your job leaves you feeling helpless and out of control.
Heeding the advice of professionals who can help you land on your feet will certainly keep you motivated to stay in the job hunt, and not be discouraged.
Should you lose your job through a lay off, remember to tap into your network and stay on top of job opportunities. Seek guidance from career counselors or try a staffing firm to uncover opportunities.
You may have to be patient, so if the hunt looks like it will take longer than anticipated consider a part-time job so that you can keep your head above water financially, but also stay in the habit of working.
Have you ever had a job interview, and were asked questions that seemed out of left field? For example, if you could be a household appliance, what would you be and why?
This type of question would throw nearly everyone a curveball, and might make you question the point of being asked these types of questions. The way to handle this situation is to stop and think about the hidden meanings behind these questions. In the interviewer's mind, a household appliance may symbolize the type of culture or work style the company possesses. Perhaps it's how the interviewer gains insight into your personality.
Whatever the reason, take time to carefully answer the question knowing that the interviewer has his/her own reasons for asking it.
But what about questions that make you feel uncomfortable? Interviewers delving into your personal life can clearly cross the line. One article even discusses the illegalities of interviewers asking these types of personal questions.
Should you encounter this in an interview, don't be afraid to tell the interviewer that you feel that information is personal and you are not comfortable providing the information during an interview, or to your employer.
Try to stay polite with your answer, but be firm. If the interviewer continues to ask inappropriate questions and continues to make you feel uncomfortable, you might consider telling the interviewer that as a result of the line of questions, you are uncomfortable and believe that this company is not the right fit for you. Thank the interviewer, and then excuse yourself from the situation.
Don't worry about burning a bridge by not completing the interview. More than likely, this is not a company you want to work for anyway.
What about our readers? What was the strangest or most offensive question you have ever been asked during an interview?
Q: Dear Seymour, I am a young professional who has been in the Logistics field for the last 10 years. I am now looking to relocate to a warmer climate such as GA or NC, but need to have employment first. Would it be smart to start dialogue with a staffing company in the area first?
-
A: Dear Logistics professional,
First and foremost, make sure you have narrowed down the market(s) where you want to live and work. Pay attention to cost of living and financial facts about the areas, as well as whether or not they offer you activities that interest you, such as parks, museums, sporting activities, etc.
Contacting a local staffing and recruiting company is certainly one step you could take to get the job hunt started, especially if you are want to relocate to an area of the country that you are unfamiliar with.
A staffing company can provide you with a wide array of opportunities, and the professional recruiters will know exactly which companies are in need of talent with your level experience.
Another suggestion would be to conduct some research about trade organizations and chapters located in the markets where you are looking to move. Not only do these organizations have searchable job boards and databases, but you can begin to make connections with people, and have contacts once you relocate to a new city.
You can also consider blogging. Industry blogs can open you up to a wide audience of colleagues all over the country. Someone might know someone in Georgia or the Carolinas, or a blogger may work for a company that has offices in those areas, and can point you in the right direction.
Good luck on your search, and enjoy soaking up the sun in your new surroundings!
We all know the feeling- the end of the work day is approaching and the clock couldn't possibly tick any slower. You're exhausted from an 8+ hour work day and have a "to-do" list with never-ending errands to run. Well before you rush out the door into a sea of traffic jams and shopping cart congestion, consider this. Why not ditch your daily routine and join your co-workers and other professional colleagues for happy hour?
Not only is happy hour a laid-back place to enjoy appetizer's and drink specials, but it is also a great opportunity to chat with your co-workers in a more personal setting and to network with potential employers if you are considering a job change. Experts suggest that by simply socializing at the occasional happy hour, you greatly increase the potential to advance your career within your organization and beyond.
As a junior-level employee or job seeker, happy hours can potentially facilitate social and professional relationships with senior level executives and provide you with unique insight into the company's culture and into your industry that you may not have experienced in a more formal, workplace setting.
However, there are some important guidelines to keep in mind when casually rubbing elbows with co-workers, company executives and potential employers:
• Be sure to check your individual company's policy on social drinking. While some organizations may sponsor social work events where alcohol is present, others may seriously frown upon this activity.
• Always remember that just because alcohol is served, that does not mean it is a requirement. Keep in mind that you are at an office function and should not drink in excess.
• Maintain a demeanor that is professional, appropriate and respectful by paying attention to what you say. Save your personal problems or spreading gossip about colleagues for your friends.
The holiday season is a fast-paced, stressful time of the year, too active to concentrate on the job hunt, right? But, just because the holiday season is here doesn't mean that you have to abandon the job search until the New Year.
Here are a couple of tips for networking during the holiday season. For example, the number one place to network is holiday parties. Professional organizations as well as friends and family will be hosting parties to celebrate the season. These events will allow you to meet new people and potentially find a new employer.
Friends and family will more than likely be inviting people from their offices to share in their celebrations. What better way to find a new employer than close friends and family? You might also want to mention to those close to you that you are looking for a new job, that way they can make sure to introduce you to their colleagues during these social occasions.
Professional and industry organizations will also be celebrating the holidays. Do a little homework and find out which ones will be the best fit for you as an employee. It might also help to become a member while you are there, if you are not one already. Becoming a new member at the holiday party will certainly make an impression, and it will give you an opportunity to go back and network some more with those members who may have been unable to attend the party.
The job search doesn't have to be a burden or put on hold until the first of year. As a matter of fact, go ahead and have a little holiday fun while you are at it.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could network with industry colleagues on site at a company that could one day be your employer? That's the new trend in the technology industry thanks to one industrious, former Google employee.
As one article describes, this former Googler returned to one of the Company's cafeterias for free lunch with friends. Then the idea came to him: why not check out companies while enjoying a free or reasonably priced lunch at the same time. Now, that idea has turned into a group dubbed Lunch 2.0, and they network regularly as various companies' cafeterias.
This is a bit of a radical idea, but it has transformed networking nationwide with positive results. Now if you think the only way to network nowadays is to sneak into corporate cafeterias and score a free meal think again. Networking has changes in all sorts of ways, from rubbing elbows in cyber-space to the tried and true industry organization event. Consider creating your own networking events. Here are a couple of ideas:
- Develop a "speed networking" event to be held at a local restaurant or night spot. Similar to speed dating, this would allow professionals to try out their elevator speech and develop several new contacts for jobs.
- Organize a group of professionals who share interests outside of work. Maybe a beach or parks clean up committee. The idea is to get to know people while sharing a common interest.
- Design an event with a personal touch. Maybe a bi-monthly, themed dinner event that includes a recipe and business card exchange. And encourage "regulars" to bring someone new every time so that the network continues to grow.
Networking doesn't have to be the dry, uninviting event of yesterday. Put some thought into it and make it a fun event that keeps people interested in returning.
Q: Dear Seymour: I'm considering looking for a new job but I have heard that the holiday season is not a good time to begin my search. Should I wait until the New Year to begin my job search?
- Submitted by Olive Moya, Houston, TX
A: Dear Olive,
Many job seekers believe that it is impossible to schedule interviews with vacationing executives during the time between cutting the turkey and toasting in the New Year. However, what many people don't know is that looking for a new position during the holidays can give you a leg up on the competition.
Although a few executives are out of the office many are looking for a go getter like you. So while other job hunters may be off Christmas shopping, now is the time for you to kick your job search into high gear. Here are six reasons why 'tis the season to go job hunting:
1. In today's competitive business environment companies cannot afford to wait until the New Year to fill key positions. They are aggressively working with head hunters to help them find the right candidate.
2. Many companies have just received budget approval and will be looking to fill open positions in January. There may also be money left from last year's budget from open positions that were never filled, giving companies an incentive to use the money to fill the position or lose it.
4. While there are usually less job postings and want ads during this time of year, the ones that do appear are usually high priority jobs that need to be quickly filled by employers. Since fewer people read and respond to ads during this time, there is less competition than usual, which is to your advantage.
5. Get your name in-front of recruiters or networking contacts by sending them a holiday greeting card. It's a nice way to remind them of who you are and a great way to differentiate yourself from the pack.
6. Do you have a dream list of companies that you would love to work for? Set up informational interviews with executives over the phone or at lunch. Many of them have fewer meetings on their calendars during this time of the year and are more open to meeting with you to share information about the company and the kinds of skills that they value in their employees.
7. This is the time when temporary opportunities abound. You can use a temporary assignment to get your foot in the door and earn some extra holiday cash.
8. Attend as many holiday parties and socials as you can and focus on those events where you are likely to meet other business professionals. More people attend these events during the holiday season which will give you a wealth of new contacts who might aide your job search.
When is it time to move on from your current job? If you are feeling dissatisfied and unfulfilled, then you should not be expected to stay.
You may want to ask you friends and colleagues for their advice about why you are looking to move on, but they may not be as supportive as you would like. An article in BusinessWeek touches on the subject of job change and seeking advice from colleagues.
Friends and colleagues may or may not be supportive of your decision, and it's up to you whether or not you want to share your plans. But you do want to make sure that you are leaving for the right reasons.
First and foremost, have a clear plan about what you want out of your career. Make a list of five to seven career goals and observe whether your current job is meeting at least four of those goals. If it's falling short of those expectations then it might be time to find a new job.
Second, take time to evaluate the pros of your current job. You may be missing out on opportunities to develop a new skill or career interest that can be cultivated with your current employer.
Lastly, remember that the grass may not always to greener elsewhere. Searching for jobs and transitioning into a new one can be stressful. If you do find a potentially new employer, do your research to make sure it is what you are looking for. It would be a shame to leave a job with stability for a new one that may not be as exciting or fulfilling.
This may be the biggest thing to hit personal branding since it's Fast Company article 10 years ago. Be sure to tune in today to this Personal Branding Summit. The Summit features two concurrent sessions for 12 hours on the topic from a host of amazing speakers. This is free to participate and an opportunity to learn the latest trends in personal branding to enhance your career. You can also find a side-by-side schedule on JibberJobber.
Q: Dear Seymour: I am about to begin a new job search, something I haven't done in nearly 15 years. I'm beginning by updating my resume. I have heard some debate over the years about whether or not to include an objective at the top. Can you help?
- Submitted by Gissele Aspen, Nashville, TN
A: Dear Gissele,
To say there is a debate about the benefits or lack thereof, to including an objective on your resume, is accurate. This topic has split career consultants and experts right down the middle. Many believe objectives are often unfocused and take up valuable real estate that could be used to showcase additional accomplishments. Others say omitting an objective signals to potential employers that the job seeker doesn't know what they want, or frustrates hiring managers because they want to read quickly what you can bring to the organization.
There is one thing that most career coaches and employers alike agree upon - most objectives are poorly written and are way too vague. Whether or not you choose to include an objective on your resume is a personal decision. However, if you do opt for inclusion, make absolutely sure it is well-written and specific to the job you are targeting.
Here are some guidelines to help you determine whether an objective is right for you, and if so, how to make sure it doesn't leave a negative impression with potential employers:
- If you cannot be specific about the job you are seeking, or you believe you are qualified for a range of jobs within a company, you probably shouldn't include an objective.
- If you are attending a career fair or a networking event, use a resume without an objective.
- If you are a recent graduate or are changing careers, it is generally advisable to include a well-written objective. First-time job seekers should state that they've recently graduated and are seeking a job in a specific field. Those who are changing careers must include how their previous skills and talents will be applied to the new field they are seeking.
- Consider using a "summary" section instead. Summarizing your skills and qualifications can make employers more receptive and has the added benefit of including many keywords that are picked up by electronic scanning.
- If you choose to include an objective, make sure it is customized and specific to each job you are applying for. Just have several versions of your resume with objectives that are tailored to each job opportunity. Be concise, and make it about the employer, not you. The objective should tell employers about what you can bring to the table, not about what you are looking for in a job.
To include or not to include, is your own decision. However, most importantly, if you decide to use the objective statement, make it a well-written, tailored, employer-centric one. An effective objective can be just the high-impact tool you need to get yourself noticed.
Social networking has become the most popular way to network and find business connections. Every week or so, the trend evolves into a difference technique. The newest form of social networking is 'friending' people through Facebook, LinkedIn or the social networking site of your choice.
A recent post on the blog EXCELER8ion, discusses the idea of friending and how it works. The basic idea is to develop a legitimate friendship first, and then let it naturally turn into a business relationship.
Friendships can take you much further than regular business networking. They ensure a level of trust and intimacy, where business relationships are just that: business.
'Friending' is a good way to make connections, but also develop relationships that you can rely on outside of the office. Additionally, your new friendships could pay off in the long run, as you would probably be moved to the top of your new friend's list if a job opportunity or connection come their way.
This month's video touches upon a situation that many candidates in today's hot job market find themselves in - can you work with multiple recruiters or are you shooting yourself in the foot if you do?
It's highly likely that if you're looking for a job and you're the right fit for the position, multiple recruiters will be contacting you. While casting the widest possible net seems like the best way to get your resume out there, there is a right way to go about doing it.
One recruiter's portfolio isn't going to have all the job openings available. That being said, doing the right thing can build respect, trust and a stronger recruiter-candidate relationship. Be sure to check out the additional installments in my Recruiter Tips series in the coming weeks. I hope that you find them useful. Good luck in your job search!
But what I would like to discuss is from the first article, "Preparing for and Making a Career Change," which provides reasons for why workers want to change careers in the first place. They are:
1. For some people, staying in the same job for too long of a time is unthinkable.
2. A 'career midlife crisis.'
3. Dissatisfaction with the current employer (this could be a variety of reasons).
4. Boredom.
5. Lack of feeling fulfillment or accomplishment.
While these are all sound reasons for wanting to change a job or career, I can't help but wonder if some of these reasons are areas that workers can improve at their current employer.
For example, take number four - Boredom. We all feel that our job can become stale, but this may also be a symptom that you are not stepping up and doing more to challenge yourself. Don't be afraid to speak with your manager and ask for more responsibilities, or to take on more projects. This could also be a lead in to help out with symptom #5 too.
Overall dissatisfaction may not be something that can change for the better, but a 'career midlife crisis' may be. After a few years of working, you might find yourself at a crossroads for reinvention. Perhaps now is the time to hone your skills in other areas, differing from your current responsibilities. Also, check out options for job-sharing or internal internships that cross train you for a different position.
Changing careers is certainly an option if you are unhappy with your job or employer, but having the opportunity to reinvigorate your career may also just be at your fingertips.
One of the biggest challenges in advising managers on the Generation Y "problem," is answering the question "Why do Gen Y workers act like this?" Bloggers, journalists, and lecturers across the nation suggest different views on this, but here's a new perspective. We (Gen Y workers) have grown up without being allowed to fail. We have been entitled to success in all we do, so that when we do fail, we have problems coping.
For example, some junior high and high schools have either abolished failing grades or lowered the standards for passing grades. In May of 2005, the Arizona Republic ran an article that reported AZ State Officials lowering passing grade standards for graduating senior exit exams for High Schools Diplomas. Outside the classroom, consider secondary school athletics. In my secondary education in Seattle's Eastside suburbs, no student was ever cut from any school athletic program. Everyone had a chance to play, because to cut someone could damage their self-confidence.
So now Generation Y-ers are leaving school and getting into the workplace; guess what? We're failing in ability to complete tasks. We leave jobs that don't give us the benefits we want or end up being much harder than we thought during interviews. We complain that we're not being treated fairly, and then when we are treated well, we ask for more.
To the managers, the best way to combat this is to mentor your employees. When an employee makes a mistake, remind them that it happens and help them back to their feet. Be patient, but firm - they must understand that they need to move on and learn from failure. Do not tell them "it's okay, you gave it your best shot, you're still a winner." If they failed, it probably wasn't their best shot.
To the Generation Y-ers, get used to the fact that life isn't going to be as easy as high school or some of college. You will fail - it's going to happen and the only thing you can do is reflect on it (briefly), then learn from it and move on. You are not entitled to never-ending success, you are merely entitled to develop your potential, and that requires both success and failure - both result in learning.
The tight labor market has become a salary and benefits coup for many job seekers. Although there have been a couple of blog posts here on the Big Time that offer advice about negotiating a salary, now that qualified candidates are becoming so hard to come by they are finding themselves in the cat-bird seat when considering their salary and benefits.
I came across this recent article posted on the Society for Human Resource Management web site that features a survey of workers and their desired benefits. The study also discovered that some candidates have turned one job down over another because of more money. So what does this mean for candidates in high demand, especially in the managerial and supervisory positions? You could have your pick of jobs and employers, based on your needs and desires for salary and career advancement.
Now, does this mean that you should request an outrageous, unrealistic salary with benefits to match? Of course not. But it does mean that you could command a significant increase in pay from the employer of your choice.
Remember though, just because employers are more willing to offer a higher salary for better qualified candidates doesn't mean that negotiations should come without preparations. So check out these Big Time posts on salary negotiation.
Last but not least, it's nice to have a higher salary but there are other considerations when seeking a new job. You might be passing up a great company to work for more money.
School is back in session, and for many college students that means choosing a major that may or may not impact their potential for future career success.
There appears to be a debate as to the relative importance of a graduate's major to their career advancement. According to some in the industry, college majors are not all that important to determining whether or not you are qualified for an entry-level job. Still, others agree that college majors are very important, especially for first time job seekers.
A recent post on Secrets of the Job Hunt titled "College Kids: Your Major is Important" reveals survey results of top employers, where the number one most important consideration when hiring entry-level employees is the student's major. My take is that the importance of a student's major largely varies on a case by case basis. For example, students planning on a career in the field of medicine or electronic engineering may fare better with a related major. For others with aspirations of being in sales, a specific major may not be as important.
Although you do not necessarily have to know from your first day of college what major you are interested in pursuing, you should have a good idea by your second full year. Typically, the first year of college is focused on basic, required skills to graduate. But, once you are ready to start your sophomore year, that's when it becomes very important to choose a major and stick with it.
Usually, those who enter college have some basic idea as the type of career they are interested in pursuing. So when choosing a major, remember that in some cases, it may be the first step towards choosing your career path.
After having been in the recruiting and staffing industry for more than 20 years, I can honestly say that I've seen it all - the good, bad and ugly. These experiences prompted me to create a series of videos highlighting various tips and advice to help you land your next job or advance your career. Each month I'll post a new tip - so check back.
This month's video highlights five interview blunders that spell disaster - things that I see all the time. A candidate with *all* the right credentials comes in for an interview and shows up late in beach attire, cell phones go off and answered, names of companies pronounced wrong and even parents showing up.
Whether you're looking for work at a corporate office, small business or Fortune 500 company, the right interview skills and career advice can mean the difference between coming in first place or runner-up. Check out the rest of my series of Recruiter Tips in the coming weeks. I hope that you find them useful and good luck!
I recently came across a blog post about law students who do not want to practice law, once they obtain their degree. One blogger described his experiences and challenges with looking for a job outside the legal field, while possessing a JD.
One of the most intriguing parts of the blogger's post was in how he needed to explain to his interviewers why he wanted to work in a field outside of law. His insight is actually sage advice for anyone in a similar situation, with any variety of degrees or career choices.
Take for example teachers. Many times, teachers pursue degrees outside of teaching. Even though they may have to be certified by the state in order to teach, their degrees may be focused on English, math, history or other school subjects.
Some hiring managers may be skeptical about hiring someone with degrees outside of their chosen career path. They might question your commitment to their company, and you could be perceived as someone unsure of what you really want to do with your career.
Regardless of your degree and chosen career path, you will need to be prepared to show an interviewer that you understand the parameters of the job you are interviewing for, and showcase where your expertise would fit in.
Whenever I have a temp-to-hire or direct hire candidate going into a formal interview with my clients, the younger candidates always ask what is expected of them. I tell them that they need to conduct themselves positively and in the best light, while also maintaining honest integrity and professionalism. When the time comes for an interview, it is up to the applicant to determine what is expected of them, based on both the questions asked by the hiring manager as well as questions posed to the hiring manager.
But when a job offer comes along, it is up to the manager to make it clear what is expected of the new hire, right from the beginning. It is also the manager’s responsibility to clarify what the new hire can expect of the manager, the position, and the company. Too often, we assume the other party has a good idea of what is wanted and unknown expectations cause too much workplace animosity.
At times, I’ve believed that my managers ask too much of me; that their expectations are too great. Other Generation Y-ers just up and quit at this point, or at the least begin polishing their resumes for new jobs. When you’re faced with what you believe are unrealistic expectations, try to do one of two things. You can go right to the manager, and innocently suggest a bit of guidance in completing the task or better understanding what is wanted and by when.
For those of you (like me) who aren’t always as brave, the second option is much easier. Find a mentor in the office who can guide you, but isn’t going to do the work for you. You have to challenge yourself to grow in the company, and having that extra person there to coach and teach you will always help you erase your self-doubt when faced with a seemingly impossible task. You don’t want to become dependent on the mentor, but you do want to use their experience with the company and in personal development, to expand your abilities and develop your potential as an asset to the company.
I would also encourage managers to take the proactive approach and setting up new hires with a mentor right away. Mentorship programs will lead to better retention of employees and a reduction in younger employees jumping ship.
Ever feel that after you submit your resume to a potential employer, it goes into a black hole? Technology has made job hunting easier, but standing out even harder. What tips do you have to get noticed by prospective employers?
We've just posted a new podcast by Spherion CEO Roy Krause about the hot topic of re-careering.
He and I have seen and read about the trend of mid-career workers who are either dissatisfied with their current prospects or simply decide they want to pursue a passion and make a major change.
While many of us have probably pondered the idea of leaving the corporate world to become a photographer, interior decorator or dive instructor in Bimini, it's not necessarily an easy thing to do.
Roy explores the challenges of making a major career change and provides advice about how to effectively position yourself and explain your change to employers.
For a list of recent podcasts, please visit our pressroom.
We recently discovered an online job board and career center specifically targeting workers who are 50 and over. Adage is an Australian-based organization that offers services to candidates with all skills sets from executive to blue collar positions. Adage also has a blog chock full of useful information for mature workers.
Niche sites such as these can be incredibly helpful for candidates because they address workplace questions, issues and concerns that fellow peers have experienced. Take for example, Gen Plus, another blog that addresses more than work and lifestyle issues for those who are 50 and older. Gen Plus, written by the Company's founder, has a mission to bring meaning, esteem and useful information to the mature populations of the United States and Canada.
Also, in your quest for career advice, don't forget to check the Big Time for blog posts regarding this topic. Spherion's very own Carleen MacKay, one of a very few experts in the United States whose career life is specialized in the 50+ workforce, is always offering insight into the world of the mature workforce.
Q: How do you handle questions with prospective employers who ask you what were you making at your last employer? I feel that because of my annual salary with previous employer hinders other employers from considering me, even if i have the experience.
You've hit on a topic that is somewhat controversial and that ultimately will need to be a personal decision as to where you stand on the issue. Here's why. When it comes to asking for salary requirements, this is a common and acceptable practice. How else is your potential employer to know if your salary needs/desires are within what they are willing to pay for the position? The problem is when an employer asks a candidate for salary history - particularly in cases like yours where your previous salaries may hinder even being considered for a job.
For many years disclosing salary history was considered unacceptable because this was confidential information. However, many employers today do ask for this information and may even consider it a requirement to even apply.
So, first you need to decide if you are willing to reveal your salary history to potential employers. If not, you'll just need to focus on positions with organizations that don't have this as a requirement. If, on the other hand, you have accepted this as a necessary evil, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Don't disclose it unless or until you've been asked to do so.
Don't lie about it. Be accurate about your previous salaries because some companies will verify or request this information from your previous employers. If you're caught in a lie, it can obviously result in not getting the job or being fired if you've taken the job under false pretences.
Prepare for the Negotiation. Remember, you will need to demonstrate effectively and persuasively why the salary you are asking for is appropriate for your talent level and value. Therefore, do some research:
Review average salaries for your level of experience, education, etc. Use sites like www.salary.com to research salaries for the type of industry your potential employer is in, and geography.
Take into consideration the demand and supply for your type of skill. For example, if you have a specialized skill in short supply, you can ask for a higher salary. On the flip side, if there are a lot of people with the same skills as you, you can expect salaries to be lower.
Salary negotiation is always one of the hardest parts of job searching. But, if you are well prepared, it will make the process a smoother and more successful one.
Q: I am looking for a part-time professional job and trying to get back a work/life balance. I have a MIS degree with over 10 yrs experience in IT and IT Audit. I can't seem to find the 'telecommute' or working from home jobs. Anyone have any tips or tricks?
This requirement will limit your ability to find a job quickly, since these opportunities are less frequently available and it also depends on the local area in which you live as to the availability of these types of positions.
We see that most IT Analyst / Audit positions are primarily working in the office, while some may have the ability to telecommute for a portion of the time. You can source the local staffing agencies, employers, and even post your resume with that requirement, but be sure to be open to doing some work in the office.
Your job search may be much longer than necessary with that requirement, so it may be prudent for you to apply to part-time positions and discuss the potential possibility to move into a predominantly work from home / telecommuting role once the employer is comfortable with your work quality and capabilities.
Do ever wonder if greener pastures await you in another position at a different company? Chances are that one is available with your name on it, but are you ready to make the move? A recent blog post on Jobacle addresses the issue of an exit strategy, or how to leave your current position as seamlessly and organized as possible.
Spherion's most recent Emerging Workforce Study found that nearly forty percent of workers plan on changing careers within a year. Reasons for this varies from finding a job with more work life balance, to seeking more training and career growth opportunities from one's employer..
So how do you prepare to leave your current employer for another job? As the Jobacle post points out, you need to make sure that you stay in touch with your contacts, keep your resume up to date, etc. But you should also remember one very key point: Be sure that the new job/employer is right for you.
Some workers take job stability for granted. So if your current employer offers you that, be sure you are comfortable with making a move to a new company. You can always bide your time and continue working for your current employer until the right position comes along.
Also, never quit your job without having another one to go to. Even if you believe your prospects are good ones, it may still take weeks or even months to be hired.
If you decide to move on, remember not to leave your old employer in a lurch by not transitioning someone else into your place, or at least give the appropriate two weeks notice. This will give the company time to hire a replacement for you, or at least allow you to tie up loose ends.
All in all, making the switch to a new company can be very rewarding and beneficial to your career, as long as you prepare, are organized and timely when doing so.
Q: My family is on my case about myspace and facebook. They think that anyone can view your profiles, even if they are set so that only your friends can view your profiles. They think that my future employers can bypass the terms of agreement of the website and view profiles, even though they are private. Is this true? Is that against the law?
If you believe there is a chance your profile may be viewed, we suggest you address that aspect directly with the Webpage. Furthermore, the issue regarding the legality of what may be viewed about you on the Web is best left to an attorney licensed in your state.
From our perspective, a prudent practice to follow would be to ensure that which you place in a public forum, such as the Web, should always be accurate and focused on accomplishing your goals. Don't risk being rejected as a potential candidate for employment, by engaging in discussions on sensitive topics regarding politics, religion or current events. Since your comments may be seen as controversial or insensitive regarding the subject matter being discussed and if viewed by employees or a future employers hiring manager, your reputation may precede you, which may then stifle future opportunities.
Blogging has become a mainstay for communications, especially for job candidates. A recent article in Newsday profiles several diverse bloggers, and focuses on why and how they blog. One of the featured bloggers is Deb Dib, founder of a personal branding and career coaching business called Executive PowerCoach.
Dib provided a list of reasons for why she blogs. Some of the reasons she gave included:
Blogging is one of the best ways to gain visibility as a thought leader.
It's a way to stay current and leading-edge within your field and related fields of interest.
It's a way to become the hunted and not the hunter when you're looking to change or build your career.
Blogging keeps you on your toes, hones your writing and research skills, and keeps you aware of your branded voice.
It creates a powerful on-line presence. If you develop a "following," it helps create a vibrant community with like-minded people who become a vital network.
Another article in Employment Digest talks about how recruiters are using blogs to place jobs and find candidates. Even further, job candidates are using blogs as resumes and to showcase their expertise in a particular field.
For some, the blogsphere might be an area they are not comfortable with, or don't quite understand. Others feel they don't have the time to keep up with a blog. If you find that you fall into one of these categories, there are ways to participate in the online community without taking on any risk or taking up too much time.
Being a casual observer and just monitoring and reviewing what others say is a good way to stay involved without taking the step of adding comments in an open debate or conversation. Then you can become more comfortable with the process and maybe eventually turn into an active blogger yourself.
Creating your own blog is a great way to be noticed, but it can be time consuming. So if you don't want to develop your own blog but still want to keep current on important topics, there are plenty of community blogs that you can participate in without having the strenuous daily commitment. Or, moniture feeds of interest to you through RSS engines such as Bloglines.
Whether you want to be a regular contributor, or just a casual observer, blogging can serve as a way to connect with others in your field of expertise or to get your name out there and bring the recruiters to you!
I'm frequently asked questions about etiquette and procedure when working with recruiters. One question I field most often is whether it is acceptable to work with two recruiters at the same time. There are varying opinions on this topic but here's my two cents.
It depends. I don't mean to be vague here but that's the truth. Let me explain. If you are a "hot" candidate with skills that are in high demand and you are looking within a narrow job market (geographically), then you are best to stick with one recruiter. The reason is recruiters are generally paid on a commission or contingency basis. This means they only get paid when the person they present or recommend is hired. If you're working with two different recruiters, from different firms, and they both submit your resume for the same position, you've got a problem. Now the potential employer fears having to pay two fees if they'd like to hire you, and when (not if, but when) the recruiters find out, you will have burned a bridge with two valuable resources.
A great option for these types of candidates is to give a recruiter an exclusive. This means you give your recruiter an opportunity to represent you exclusively for a set period of time and in exchange you promise not to work with any other recruiters for the same time period. If you are working with multiple recruiters and one of them asks for exclusivity, make sure you are open and honest with all of them about your choice. Again, this scenario works best for candidates with skills in high, high demand.
On the other hand, if you are seeking employment in an industry or a position in high supply or looking in a number of geographic locations, then it is generally best to work with several recruiters and staffing agencies. One reason is that in the recruiting worlds, recruiters can only show you what they have in their portfolio of clients. Working with multiple recruiters makes more sense because it gives you access to the entire job market and can expose you to the broadest range of companies and options as possible. This will increase your chances of standing out among a large number of job seekers and candidates. Just make sure you know where your resume is being submitted in order to avoid the unlikely scenario above.
One of the most popular topics we've addressed here on the Big Time is that of criminal background checks. Spurring heated debate and empathetic postings, the issue of criminal records has many people talking. And now, more data about the use of background checks is adding to the ongoing conversation.
According to a new report by Kroll, the percentage of criminal records "hits" in employment background checks rose to 9.1% in 2006 from 8.5% the previous year. The report also found that the construction industry had the highest hit ratio for criminal records at 16.1%, and education ad the highest hit ratio for drug testing at 8.8%.
According to a Kroll senior VP, employers are using background checks more often. He says "Overall, the increases we have seen over the past few years point to employers' heightened awareness of the importance a thorough background check plays in the hiring process."
To read past advice, or stories from those affected by criminal backgrounds, check out the Big Time posts on this subject.
I'm curious to hear what our readers think about this new data? In particular, does anyone find it concerning that the education sector (i.e. potentially those folks teaching the children of America) had the highest hit ratio for drug testing?
In a May 10, 2007 post on Career Ramblings there was mention of how recent college graduates can have a successful first year on the job. The blogger, Jane May, notes that all young professionals go through the awkward stage of no longer being a student, neither being quite a professional yet either. Check out the post for some helpful advice to help you through your first year.
But what about your first day on the job? This is no doubt a very daunting experience. You're the new kid on the block and you may feel that all eyes are upon you. New surroundings, people, processes and unknown expectations have butterflies swimming amuck in your stomach. This is all normal, but there are things you can do to relieve some of the stress. Here are some tips I give to my candidates to ensure they have a successful first day on the job:
1. First impressions set the tone for your future workplace relationships so be aware of your actions, comments and non-verbal behavior. When in doubt, dress conservatively. Try to relax and speak confidently. Make good eye contact and smile. Avoid talking about religion, politics or sex with co-workers you just met. Be an active listener. Make an effort to remember names.
2. Your first day will be filled with the logistics of finding your office space, getting an email address and passwords, filling out forms, meeting people and maybe sitting through an orientation. People may ignore you or go out of their way to welcome you to the company - be prepared for both reactions.
3. When you ask questions, no matter how silly you may think they sound, people know you are eager to learn and understand the material. If you keep questions to yourself, you may get confused or look like you don't know what you are doing. There is nothing to be ashamed of if you don't understand everything or can't remember everyone's name.
4. Observe what is going on around you in the workplace so you have a clearer definition of the way things work.
5. Showing up early lets people know that you're excited to be there. It also tells them that you're committed to working there and doing your best. Don't rush out the door when your day is over. Wait around a little bit, and ask if there is any work that needs to be done before leaving. You'll fit in much faster if your boss and coworkers see you putting forth an effort.
Most importantly, remember that everyone you meet that day was once the "new person." You will survive.
I saw an interesting article on the Career Journal site yesterday that got me thinking. The article provided relevant advice for workers who wanted to change careers or fields. I am sure we have all thought about the "what ifs" when it comes to our jobs and careers.
What if I had chosen a better major or studied harder in college?
What if I went back to school?
What if I took the plunge and started my own business?
What if I pursued a contract, temporary or part-time engagement?
What if I made the switch to a career where I could work at something I'm passionate about?
The good news is that it really isn't as hard as you may think. By working for one year or 30, you have experience which can translate to other fields or professions. I always say you should never feel stuck in your current job, your industry or career path. The reality is that we will be working for a good portion of our lives and no one should have to endure '30 years to life' in something they hate doing. What a horrible prospect.
I know a lot of people who've made big changes in their lives, and for the most part, they're very happy they finally did it and wondered why they waited so long. So if you've been thinking about making a change, there's no better time to step up to the plate and do it. The job market is still hot, good talent is hard to find and I bet you'll find yourself in the driver's seat (and a lot happier too).
Graduation time is here, and after the celebrations and break from the books come to an end, recent grads are faced with having to land their first job.
According to new research from Career Builder, college graduates will be in the cat-bird seat when searching for their first job. In a recent CB Campus blog post, it was revealed that 42 percent of companies will up their starting salaries for recent grads, and 79 percent of hiring managers plan to hire recent college graduates, an increase from 70 percent just last year.
The Career Builder post points out some of the tried and true tips of job seeking preparation tips such as conducting in-depth company research, showing enthusiasm and sharing relevant and related experience outside of just internships.
But, competition will be stiff and the amount of jobs available in your field could be slight, so you will have to really stand out from the crowd. You will make headway by networking at career fairs or at industry organizations. Remember to ask those you meet questions about their company and the company's culture. Also, offer a resume to your new contact and remember to ask them for a business card. Even if they are not a hiring manager, you can at least have a point of contact inside the company for follow up.
Also, utilize some of your college friends and contacts to help identify job opportunities. Some are hired just prior to graduation, so if you know former classmates who have received job offers and were hired before you, ask them if there are other open positions that you qualify for, and see if they can help get your foot in the door. Many companies offer employees referral bonuses. So knowing a friend or classmate can not only help you find a job, it could pay off for them as well!
Congratulations class of 2007, and best of luck in career world!
Q: I've decided to move closer to my family and prefer to find a job before I do. Any tips on how to conduct a long-distance job search? - Submitted by Faye Peppier, Beaumont, TX
A: Dear Faye,
Today's technology helps make remote job hunting easier than ever before, and so will these handy tips. Even though changing towns, homes and jobs at the same time can really tilt the stress scale, millions of people do it every year-and you can, too!
Do your homework. Do as much research about your target market as you can, including identifying major area employers, traffic and commuting patterns, mass transit options and any dominant industries in the area.
Leverage your contacts. Do you know anyone who already lives and works in your new location? If so, ask them about potential job opportunities, best places to network, top employers in the area and any useful local knowledge they may have.
Subscribe to the paper. Call the newspaper in your target market to obtain a short-term or Sunday-only subscription so that you can read the local classified ads-or try to access them online through the paper's Web site. You may even find job fairs that you might be able to attend.
Contact a staffing company. Submitting your resume and application to a recruiting and staffing company in the area can get fast results. They may offer temporary positions at some of the area's top employers, temp-to-hire positions that can lead to full-time work, or even place you in a permanent position immediately. Spherion®, for example, has more than 650 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. For an office in your target market, visit our Web site at www.spherion.com/corporate/offices.jsp or call us toll free at 866-456-4357.
Plan a premove visit. If you can, visit your new location before you move-to conduct informational or initial interviews with potential employers or attend a significant job fair. Mention the dates of your planned trip in your letters or e-mails so that, if the employer is interested, they can arrange an interview during your visit. Make sure you pack as many interviews as possible into your trip.
Most importantly, if things don't fall into place before you move-don't worry. Finding a job is usually easier once you actually live in a place. And, of course, you'll have the added advantage of having done your homework already!
Job hunting requires hard work and a smart strategy, internet or no internet. However, we all know (perhaps no one better than our blog readers) that technology can enhance your job search process. Here are four quick reminders about how to optimize your cyber hunt for the best job or position:
1. Put first things first. As with traditional job hunting, update and polish your resume. Revise your resume weekly so that it appears higher in an employer's search results. You can create "confidential" resumes, which allow employers to see your experience but not your name. Label your resume appropriately - how you name your resume can impact how often it is viewed. An employer is much more likely to click on a resume title "Senior Financial Consultant" than on one titled "Sam's Resume." Most resume postings must be made in ASCII (plain text). Online sites can help with this.
2. Use proper ‘netiquette.' Think before you send a message, and realize the impression you are making. Electronic correspondence requires the same level of professionalism as traditional methods. Avoid being too casual when online. Keep the length of your message reasonable, and use correct grammar and spelling. The way you communicate using email is just as important as the way you communicate face-to-face. You must have an acceptable email address (i.e. your name/initials@xxxx.com). Do not use email addresses that are unprofessional, too casual or just have no relevance (like BigMomma@yahoo.com).
3. Mega sites. Start browsing mega career sites that offer multiple resources and services for free. Network through bulletin boards , newsgroups and user groups . Set up job search agents on all the sites you visit to receive the latest openings as soon as they are listed. Job search engines alow you to search many of the major job databases at once. Though helpful, don't limit yourself to posting your resume or applying only to jobs you find on these major job sites.
4. Niche sites. Search the niche job sites in your respective profession. Search local job sites and Chamber of Commerce sites. Check the newspaper Help Wanted ads, both online and off. Some employers still only use the classifieds offline to advertise job openings so be sure to use every available resource.
Using technology when job hunting helps, but is should be used as a set of tools. The most effective strategy is to use a variety of job seeking methods. Make finding you as easy as possible for the employer whether that is through technology based or traditional methods.
In a recent blog post on Career Solvers by Barbara Safani discusses how and why you should keep up with your contacts even after you've landed a new job. Some of the ideas that Safani addresses are:
Updating contact information: Safani suggests that when candidates start their new job they contact their network about their new address and email.
Staying connected to colleagues: Safani suggests that by staying connected to colleagues candidates can put themselves in a position to return favors, should any previous colleagues decide to look for work.
Keeping professional memberships active: By candidates staying up to date on association newsletters and event networks are more easily contacted and grown.
Some of the other areas to consider when keeping up with and staying connected include inviting some of your key contacts to lunch or dinner. Individual meetings outside of the workplace can be very effective in developing and maintaining key connections.
If you have difficulty remembering to keep up with your network, set up reminders in your work calendar so that when you do have some open time, you can use it wisely by contacting someone you have been meaning to call or email. Many people now have their own blogs or pages on social networking sites, such as Facebook or MySpace, that also serve as an easy way to stay in touch with your network.
And remember, if you stay in constant and sincere contact with your network of connections they will be more willing to help out when you really need them.
