Hannah Morgan

Organization- Electronic Style!

I struggle every day (and have for a long time) with how to file emails. I am afraid to delete messages that I might need in the future. When I get really ambitious, or fed up with my lack of organizational skills, I create seemingly meaningful folders in my inbox. Sure, that works fine the first day, but the next day, the categories I've created either make no sense or I can't remember where I put an email.

Now let's carry this over to organizing contacts in my email, Google reader, LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. Sheez, this gets tricky. I've been to workshops on "how to organize your life". Usually they say, "find a system that works for you". Well, if I could figure out a system, maybe it would work. What I do know is that by organizing and categorizing my eLife, I would spend less time searching and more time doing. I would be able to send stuff to the "right" people in less time and be able to locate information when I need it.

It makes sense to me in Job Search that these would be the email folders (and other categories) one might want to use.

• Friends
• Family
• Networking group (use its name if it has one)
• Volunteer (again, use the organization's name)
• Industry contact
• Occupation contact
• Referrals
• Job alerts
• Company Name of Job submitted (so there will be many of these folders)
• Company Insider

LinkedIn allows you to categorize contacts as well. Would it make sense to use many of the same? Facebook allows you to create LISTS. This can be important if you only want some of your network to see some of what you are up to. You can set security settings according to Lists.

Twitter, as it appears from their site is too cumbersome for my liking. I've been using Tweetdeck since I started using Twitter and have become familiar with it. There are others that do pretty much the same thing (Seesmic, DestroyTwitter, or for the really serious Hootsuite) . These tools allow you to separate the Twitter stream by category (hmmm, maybe use the same ones from above).

My google reader is set up a bit differently. I categorize the sites I read by topic more than category, though there is some overlap!

Does anyone have a system they use that they would like to share? I think there are many others out there who struggle like me! We need help!

College Grads Need Your Help

Actually, they needed your help before they got their cap and gown.  But perhaps not the kind of help you think.

They need mentors (and that isn't you)

You can't be your child's best friend or mentor.  You could help them find a mentor, but don't do it for them.  Ask them who they would like to meet, or what industry or occupation they might be interested in.  You can provide the introduction.

They need to understand how to make small talk

We all could use a little help in this area, but what does a 20-something have in common with a 40-something?  Probably more than you would think.  Encourage them to attend multi-generational events.

Teach them manners

If you missed this opportunity before, now is a great time to teach them how to write Thank You notes and letters.  Don't assume they know, because they don't!

Encourage personal and professional development

The soft skills generally aren't taught in schools. Have them do some reading on the topic. Encourage them to be life-long learners.

Review Employment Etiquette

They will be expected to show up on time and ready to go.  They need to dress appropriately.  They need to understand that a college degree doesn't qualify them to be a CEO...yet.

The World of Work has Changed

When you looked for your last job, things were different.  Before you go giving them job search advice, you better make sure you know the new rules.  

There are some great resources out there for them and here are just a few:

Heather Huhman

Dan Schwabel's Student Branding

Careerealism

Summary Sunday

From around the blogosphere, this is a round up of interesting articles for job seekers this week:

WORKFORCE

Does that Job Really Require a College Degree?  from Steve Boese's HR Technology

PERSONAL BRANDING

Seth Godin's 7 Point Guide to Bootstrap Your Personal Brand from Personal Branding Blog

Why Social Media is Optimizing the Personal and Corporate Brand  from Jeff Bullas.com

Why Personal Branding is so Misunderstood from Influential Marketing Blog

NETWORKING

July's Topic:  Networking from Career Collective

Social Engagement Works from Jeff Korhan

Branchout = Facebook Plus LinkedIn Divided by Job Search by Phil Rosenburg on Secrets of the Job Hunt

JOB SEARCH RESOURCES

Top Lists of Job Search Bloggers and Twitter Users from Career Assessment Goddess

Doing vs. Really Doing

Nothing is harder or more exasperating than looking for a job. If you are like many job seekers, you've been attending workshops and reading about job search. You've tweaked your resume more than once (OK, maybe you've tweaked it 50 times).  You've attended all the networking groups.  You've arranged informational meetings and still, no job offer.  So what isn't working?

The answer isn't that simple.  It takes an audit.  Audits aren't fun.  They sort of force you to see the "reality".  Sometimes, the answer is, there isn't anything wrong, this just takes time.  If you are ready to conduct an audit of your job search, have someone you trust ask you these questions.  You may be thinking, "I'll just ask myself these questions", but don't do it.  Get an outsider to do it. 

• How many hours did you spend in job search related activities last month?
• How many interviews did you have last month (over the phone and in person)?
• What is the status of those interviews?
• How many target companies have you identified?
• How many target companies do you have inside contacts in?
• How many industry contacts (people who are within your industry) did you contact with last month?
• How many recruiters did you initiate contact with last month?
• How many jobs did you submit your resume to?
• What is the geographic range of your job search? Can or when will this be expanded?
• How much money have you spent on coffee? (Just kidding!)

Encourage the person asking you these questions to be tough.  Tell them you really want them to dig deep so that you can identify some things you might be able to do differently. 

One last thought: The tendency we all have is to get defensive or make excuses.  No emotions please.  Just the facts! This is a creative problem solving exercise.

Summary Sunday

Here are some of the posts retweeted this week.  I consider Twitter to be source of information for learning.  If nothing else, by following great people in your industry you come across some great information.  Hey, you might make a friend along the way too!

EMPLOYED AND LOOKING

Your Job Mis-Match will Kill Your Career by Scot Herrick

Don't Quit Your Job from Job-Hunt.org

THE SEARCH

4 Ways Not to Reek of Desperation from Six Pixels of Separation

7 Brilliant Ways to Use Your Contacts to Find a Job from The Undercover Recruiter

Don't Make These Online Job Hunting Mistakes from Keppie Careers

Searching for a Job in the Real-World by Jeffrey Lipschultz

CAREER CHANGE

Career Change- How Old is Too Old from Boomer's Next Step

PERSONAL BRANDING

Express Your Essence in a Sentence from Reach Personal Branding (this is a short video)

TRENDS

"How Outsourcing Sabotages Our Economic Future" from The Vancouver Sun

Summary Sunday

This week's summary is truly a mixed bag of great posts from this week! 

INTERVIEWING

Interview Regrets to Avoid from Tim's Strategy

3 Questions You Don't Know the Answer to After a Job Interview from Work Coach Cafe

EMAIL

8 Tips for Getting Your Email Read from Design Resumes

Create a Compelling, Helpful, and Memorable Email Signature from Career Success Partners

SOCIAL MEDIA

7 Tips for Sharing Articles on Twitter from Interview Angel

Top 60 LinkedIn Groups for Job Seekers and Recruiters from Jobmob

7 Ways to Ensure Social Media Isn't Ruining Your Job Hunt from ERE.net

CAREER MANAGEMENT

5 Simple Career Management Lessons from Mikelally.net

The New Work Rules from CBS Moneywatch

LEADERSHIP

Top 25 Online Influencers in Leadership from HRExaminer.com

Tracking Your Job Search Activities

It is hard to know what's working and what's not if you aren't tracking what you are doing and how you are spending your time.

I remember asking a job seeker how many jobs they had applied for in the past week, the response: "A lot". Probing further, I asked for a number, even a range.  The person couldn't estimate how many.  This isn't unusual. But, it might be worth changing.

Weekly, are you asking yourself these questions?

• Looking back over the past week, what do you feel you've accomplished?
• Where do you feel you fell short?
• What will you do to fix or change this?
• What are your goals for next week?
• How will you accomplish them?
• Is there an issue or problem you need advice on?

I've heard people complain that tracking this stuff is a job in itself.  At first, yes, but after a while it becomes easier.  If you don't know what your are doing, how can you change? Measuring your activities is really important.

There are lots of ways to track your activities.  I don't like re-inventing wheels, so I am going to show you one I particularly like.  Jibberjobber.com also is a great job search tool.  F.R.E.E. It is internet-based and user friendly!

Orville Pierson wrote The Unwritten Rules of a Highly Effective Job Search.  I've found his productivity chart to be super effective at tracking and evaluating!

If you would like to download an Excel version, use this link.  Download Job search tracking And here is a pdf Download CS Productivity horizontal and definitions

To really get the most out of this, meet regularly with an accountability partner and review it with them. 

A Job Search Check List

Embarking on a job search can be confusing and overwhelming.  I recently came across this document and I wanted to see if it might be useful. This is a link to the .pdf  Download Job Search Check List.

Having an idea of what to do next and setting goals can really be helpful in driving your search forward.

Hope this helps.  As always, let me know what you are thinking!

Straight Shooting Advice and Info

Sometimes HR (Human Resources) gets a bad rap.  They are put in challenging situations by their organizations many times.  However, there are a lot of super people in HR trying to do wonderful things. 

I love straight shooters and Laurie Reuttiman is one.  She blogs on Punk Rock HR.  What I like about her is that she stays current with what's going on out there, she knows what she's talking about and she lets it fly.  More than once, I've read posts that advocate for pro-job seeker policies and best practices.  

Recruiters also get a bad rap sometimes.  There are several recruiters I read regularly for their wisdom and insight.    I respect Chernee Vitello of Whiting Consulting.  She's got spunk and great depth of knowledge.  Her blog is getting more attention these days and I am really enjoying the posts! 

Brent Peterson is a well regarded job seeker resource, aka Interview Angel. If you are on Twitter, you will definitely see Brent!  He understands how to use this tool!  He also offers great insight on many job search topics. 

Hopefully these writers will help dispel any myths about the hiring practices going on today as well as enlighten and motivate!

Job Search Deja Vu

I was picking up some weekly groceries at the local supermarket, Wegmans this weekend. (I love Wegmans.  The store has everything wonderfully presented plus you NEVER have to wait in line) The fun thing about living in a small town is that you always run into someone you know.  It makes me feel like I belong here.

OK, anyway, back to the topic.  I ran into Steve, a job seeker I've known for several months.  Steve was telling me how his search this time around has been easier that his first time after 9/11.

This got me thinking.  Why would it be easier if the economy/job market is so much tougher?  I didn't need to think long to realize that it is because he's been through it before.  The second, third, forth time you've had to do something, it gets easier. 

There is less of a learning curve.

Job search requires so many skills:  networking, resume crafting, interviewing, negotiating, job search correspondence are just a few.  If you've brushed up on those skills recently, they are fresher.

You know what to expect. 

Well, kinda.  Hindsight is 20/20.  From a previous job search you learned some valuable lessons:

• Never stop looking
• Don't hold out for the perfect job
• Meet as many people as possible
• Follow up on every lead
• Ask good questions during the interview
• Don't take rejection personally
• Diversify your search (occupations and/or industries)

This sense of deja vu, as unwanted as it is, is a huge benefit.  It allows Steve and others who've experienced job loss the ability to hit the ground running sooner and faster. 

Your body and mind can focus on the known rather than getting stuck in a rut by the unknown. 

Regularly, I hear people say that they just want a stable job and they never want to go through this experience of job search again.  I say to them "Get used to it, you WILL be going through this again and sooner than you think!".

What about you?  Has this job search been easier than your first time?  Tell us why! 

Summary Sunday

There are just not enough hours in the day to write about everything a job seeker should know.  Additionally, there is good advice then not so good advice.  I love to find what I consider the best of the best posts in my "Summary Sunday".  I hope that you will add some of these bloggers/authors to your regular reading list after you've taken in their posts.

10 Ways to Survive a Webcam interview from Tim's Strategy

How to Figure out which Job You will Excel at from Jobmob

Job Search Success Wooden Style from ExecuNet Insights

Connecting the Dots of Your Career from Brazen Careerist

All About Passion from @garvee and Steve Jobs from Whiting Consulting

Are you a resistor?  from the Wise Job Search

Happy Reading and stay focused! 

Light the Fire Under Your Feet

I am honored to be part of Career Collective, a community of extremely talented resume writers and career coaches. This post is one of many responses to “heating up your job search".

I encourage you to visit other members' responses linked below. Please follow our hashtag on Twitter: #careercollective.

  I want to thank Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, MRW, CPRW, CEIP (www.careertrend.net) and Miriam Salpeter (www.keppiecareers.com) for bringing this team of experts together. 

When do you feel you need to put the pedal to the metal and zoom into full speed? When are you going to treat your job search as a sprint? Summer is almost here and it is tempting to take some time off.  DON'T! 

Summer can be one of the best times to network and catch people at work.  In order to make the most of your time and efforts and to be able to feel productive, you'll want to think about deploying some of these strategies.

ACT WITH A SENSE OF URGENCY

Sure, we all say we want a job soon. How soon is the question.  Self impose deadlines for activities such as setting up specific networking meetings, followup after an interview or meeting, increasing your LinkedIn connections or adding more target companies to your list.  Assigning a "due date" to every task can hold you accountable. It also can provide a greater sense of ownership.  Let's face it, it is so easy to say, "well, she never called me back" or "I've been meaning to contact him, I've just been so busy".  No more excuses.  Figure out a way to meet your deadlines, just like you had to do at work.

If you are looking for a list of job search activities that need deadlines, check this out.

MANAGE YOUR TIME

Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People discusses the 4 quadrants of time management.  Read the chapter "First Things First" to learn more.  The goal is to disperse your time appropriately.  I like this model because it helps us see where you SHOULD be spending more time (quadrants 1 & II), however, we get lured into quadrants III & IV way too often.  

MOVE

This isn't a paid vacation. Keep yourself moving forward.  Do things that challenge you and feel uncomfortable.  Set your plan into action and work it. Or as the Nike motto says: "Just Do It".  Back in November when the government was adding extensions to unemployment benefits I wrote this post: Are You Determined to Get A Job or Ride Out Unemployment. 

You have what it takes to survive.  This is just a small test and chances are very good that you will get a job sooner or later. Hopefully sooner.

Don't miss the expert advice below!

Turn Off The Computer, Tune Into What’s Happening, & Heat Up the Job Search, @chandlee

Heating up the Job Search-How to Stay Motivated During the Summer, @erinkennedycprw

Cool Job Seekers Heat Up Their Search in the Summer, @barbarasafani

Some assembly required, @DawnBugni

Summertime, Sluggish Economy Provide Strong Motivation for an Updated Resume, @KatCareerGal

9 Ways to Heat Up Your Job Search This Summer, @heatherhuhman

Getting Out From Under Chronic, @WorkWithIllness

Upping Your Job Search Flame; Be 'Needed, Not Needy,' @ValueIntoWords

Is Your Career Trapped in the Matrix? @WalterAkana

Put some sizzle in your job hunt - how to find a job now, @keppie_careers

Summertime - and the Job Search Ain't Easy, @KCCareerCoach

Heating up your job search. 5 ways to dismiss those winter blues, @GayleHoward

Hot Tips for a Summer Job Search, @MartinBuckland @EliteResumes

Heat Up Your Job Search: Avoid Job Boards, @JobHuntOrg

Heating Up Your Job Searching Skills: Networking 101 and 102, @GLHoffman

Treasure Hunt—Yo-ho-ho! Heat Up Your Job Search, @resumeservice

Worth Repeating: Job Search Wisdom

As I dig through blogs and filter through tweets I am looking for original ideas.  How can I put a fresh spin on something that's been said one thousand times by hundreds of experts?  The answer certainly isn't easy.  Maybe it is enough to just repeat the message.  They say that an adult learner needs to hear something about seven times before they actually hear it.

But perhaps there is a lesson in this. Job seekers should remember this too. 

HOT POTATO

The news about your quest for a new job shouldn't be treated like a hot potato.  In other words, don't blast the message out just once and think you've done your part.  Just because you've told your network once what you are looking for, doesn't mean they'll remember it. 

KAMIKAZE NETWORKING

If you've created a target list of people and companies to connect with, dive-bombing to meet with them once isn't enough.  Maintain contact.  Pepper them with meaningful followup.  Be a nurturer.

TESTING 1, 2, 3

Near the end of the interview make sure they know you are qualified.  Ask the interviewer if there is anything on your resume that they have questions about or if there is anything they think you may be lacking to be seen a a top candidate for the position.

LATHER RINSE REPEAT

When leaving a voice mail message clearly state your name at the beginning and remind the listener at the end by repeating your name and telephone number.

Career Fairs: 7 Best Practices

I wanted to re-post some reminders about working career fairs.  No, they aren't a waste of time if you approach them with the right objectives.

A major part of job search is getting yourself out there.  What better way than to attend a career fair.  First of all, it is going to help you get more comfortable talking about yourself to strangers and builds a little confidence. If you are going to go, do some serious preparation.  

1.  Find out what companies will be there and research them for a "Must Visit" list.

It sounds obvious, but, if the company isn't in your field or industry, then, you don't NEED to visit their table.   If you don't see companies from your target list at the fair,  perhaps it isn't worth your time to attend.

2.  Visit their websites and see what jobs they have posted. 

Generally, companies that attend a career fair have posted jobs.  If you can't find them on their website, check Indeed.  

3.  Customize your resume for that one job and put together your stunning cover letter

The letter explains why you want to work for that company and list some of your top qualifications for the job. How much more impressive is this than a generic cover letter and resume?

4.  Wait in line. 

Yes, you might have to. But use this time to meet other job seekers and share industry news.

5. Know your 45 second commercial

Confidently and happily convey your elevator pitch. 

5a. With interest and enthusiasm, ask good questions of the recruiter at the table.

 2-3 questions might be all you have time for.  You want to leave them with a positive, interested and qualified mental picture of you!

6.  Ask when and how to follow up.

"We'll call you" isn't good enough, ask when you can call if you don't hear from them.  Nicely, but assertively.  

7.  Follow up, don't give up!

Companies are not giving away jobs at a career fair.  They are there to "source human capital".  They are looking for the people who are better than the average bear.  

Miscellaneous:

Get there early while the recruiters are fresh. Have business cards to hand.  Turn your cell phone off. Always look your best (wear a suit).  Breath mints.  

Miscellaneous II:

Chris Brogan attends LOTS of conferences.  Here is his post on 27 Things to Do Before a Conference

When I worked in HR, I represented my company at career fairs.  We had two boxes under the skirted table.  One box was for resumes we would take back to the office and the other box, well, it is painful to admit...

Should You Hold Out or Throw In the Towel?

The Job Seeker dilemma is when or if to take a less than ideal job.

Do you want to hold out for the "perfect job". Maybe you've reached the point of asking, "will taking this job at Wal-Mart hurt my career?" If you have been out of work for any length of time, I am pretty sure you are sick and tired of it. You may be wondering "should I hold out" or "Should I sell out"?  Before you throw in the towel and take just any job, ask yourself these three questions:

1.  Have you been specific about what you are looking for?

In other words, what is the specific job function you've been looking for?  Can you name it?  Have you been communicating this clearly and confidently to people you know?  Do your written materials (resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile) support your qualifications and interest in this kind of work? If you've been telling people you are want a new job, period, I'm pretty sure that isn't specific enough for them to be able to help you, nor want to help you. 

2.  Are you qualified? Is it a realistic option?

If you are a new grad with little work experience, it is pretty doubtful you'll be able to obtain a management or higher level job right off the bat. You usually have to put in the time, really!  If you lack certain skills, the degree or certification, this could be more of an obstacle than you think.  If you have had interviews and you've been told more than once "You lack XYZ software skills", that's a pretty good sign you are not qualified.  Be honest with yourself and assess feedback you've received from interviews and meetings with industry insiders.

3.  Have you exhausted all your options?

Have you looked at EVERY company that hires for that job in your area?  Have you looked for this job in other cities? 

If you've been honest in answering these questions and you still believe you've done everything, then you have a choice.  Should you take a job?

• What skills will the job develop?
• What types of people will you meet?
• What special projects or talents might you be able to work on?
• When will you find time to continue to look for the "better job"?

You are not signing a lifetime contract with your next employer and job hopping once or twice isn't such a bad thing today.

When/if you take that job, find ways to make a difference every day.  Look for opportunities to learn new things and meet new people.  Consider this a form of education.  By all means, don't be resentful, negative, or give an air of superiority.  Be grateful to have been given a chance.

Having a job, any job, is better than not working.  Most employers feel that way. 

Who would you rather hire?  An Oprah Junkie or a Wal Mart Greeter?

 

Share Your Secret

Are failing job seekers hiding or is the job market really bad? 

I have to wonder why so many people are unemployed.  Is it because they lack the skills to fill needed jobs as many employers are saying, or is it that they are hiding?  Or is it that they don't know how to talk and write about their skills?  Or is it because they don't know how to find available jobs? Maybe it is because the successful job seekers aren't sharing their secrets. 

Obviously, there isn't just one thing that contributes to their success.  Nor is there one thing that puts someone into the category of an unsuccessful job seeker. 

People who have secured a new job have these things in common:

• Confident in their abilities
• Understand where the demand for their jobs exist
• Positive attitude
• Strong network
• Persistent

These are the basics. Certainly there are other reasons they are successful.  Wouldn't it be nice to know more? 

If you would like to share what you think contributed to your securing a new job, please, help others by sharing.  If an online forum isn't for you, then find another way to help inspire others! 

11 Tips for Completing the Online Application

What is the purpose of an online application anyway?

An online application is serving two purposes:

1.  It is a legal document to cover HR.

2.  It is tool used to weed out applicants.

Sounds horrible, doesn't it.  My disclaimer is, I am not an HR professional.  I am a guide to help job seekers navigate the process of getting hired.  I might also add, that those two statements are very big picture.  I am sure there are companies who truly believe in their online application system and try and use them for the greater good of finding the right candidate.  But the fact remains, as they review the submissions, they are screening out candidates. That's their job.

The other day, a job seeker was asking a question she had about an online application.  Her question was: "What do you think they meant by ...?"  She wasn't sure what answer to give them.  If she provided the right answer, her application would move forward in the process.  If she gave the wrong information, she'd end up in the wastebasket.  There was a lot riding on her response on the application.  You know how she resolved it?  She guessed at what she THOUGHT they meant. 

The difficult and best way to handle the question would have been... to call the employer and ask what they meant.  Seems logical, but why didn't she do this?  It would take time, she probably would get voicemail.  She might be perceived as dumb?

The next time you aren't sure what someone is looking for, ask for clarification.  (This is true in an interview as well!)

Here are some other reminders for filling out an online application:

1. Never lie.  It is a legal document. 
2. Use correct capitalization (upper and lower case) when filling in the blanks.
3. Insert all the right key words from the job posting (remember rule #1)
4. Follow all instructions to the letter.
5. Add as much detail as will fit in the job responsibilities.  Use Action and Result bullets, like you did on your resume.  Make sure they fit the level of the job you are applying for.
6. Avoid using FIRED as your reason for leaving- a layoff is not "fired".  Fired means you did something really bad.
7. Do thorough research about the job and company before entering salary requirements.  The number may not be "how much you need to pay your bills". Use a range if possible
8. Break long careers with one company into individual jobs at that company.
9. Keep personal information to a minimum.  Don't confess medical problems or negative information about yourself or the employer on your application.
10. Use exact dates of employment.  If you don't know, find out now.  This question comes up a lot.
11. Don't expect this application to get you an interview.  Find insiders to recommend you.

I am being a bit glib with some items on this list.  If you have questions about what I mean, please ask for clarification. 

If you have tips you would like to add/share, please, do so!

Summary Sunday

Here are some of my favorite posts from this week. Each week I find new people to follow and new blogs to read. In sharing them, I hope you learn something new and/or find a new blog to read.  Happy Hunting!

10 Commandments of Networking from Career Rocketeer

10 New Rules for Today's Job Hunt from On Careers

Top 10 Personal Branding Articles April 2010 from Personal Branding 101

Social Media Is Communication from Buzz101

More on Google Alerts from Brand-Yourself.com

How to Identify and Select Target Employers to Land a New from Netshare

31 Ways to Uncover the Interesting Parts of You from Tim's Strategy

Avoiding the Resume Black Hole Tactics for Getting Your Resume Noticed from UpMo

Hope you've found something here that hits a chord or fills a need. 

How Do Employers Find Good Candidates?

What is the greatest source of external hiring according to CareerXroads 2009 study? If you understand the answer, you'll also understand why networking is so important. 

26.7% of external hiring came from referrals! 

 

To me, this speaks volumes about how job seekers should be spending their time. Creating a target list of companies and networking will allow you to better find the opportunities you are searching for!

This is also a good time to remind you that many employers offer "Employee Referral Bonus'".  That's right, in many companies, they will pay bonus' to an employee who refers a candidate who is hired.  This bonus is generally paid out in two parts- the first payment occurs shortly after the referred candidate is hired, the second payment occurs after the candidate has been with the company for several months. 

This is a great incentive for employees to refer past coworkers or people they know for job openings.  And this isn't new, it has been around for awhile.

CareerXroads does point out some other interesting points about this reward system:

Have you ever received a referral bonus for recommending someone for a job?  Would you do it again?

Thank you to Deborah Cox for reminding me of this important topic!

Changes In Procedures

In the olden days, I used to fly ever couple of months.  Back then, I would just run into the airport and jump on the plane. Well, it seemed pretty easy compared to today.  Now I only fly once or twice a year.  I am overwhelmed with the new guidelines and procedures.  What happened to "ticket agents" at the main part of a terminal?  There are kiosks now...where did all the people go who could answer my questions?

Finding your gate number is easier now.  The monitors showing flights are colorful and easier to read!  Yeah!

Over in "security" there are long snaky lines.  I have to have my ID out, my toiletries in 3 oz. containers (and in a zip-lock baggy), and then take off my shoes.  For the less experienced traveler and the traveling family, this creates great anxiety.  I watched the veteran travelers zip right through while my family was still gathering their stuff and trying to get their shoes back on.

I can't forget to mention that EVERY traveler had a phone.  Usually a smart phone.  (I have smart phone envy already).  About half the travelers whipped out their laptops upon sitting down either at the gate or on the plane.  I felt left-out without mine.

I mention all these changes because job search and traveling have similarities.  If it has been a while since you've last looked for a new job, you better find out what the new guidelines and procedures are.  The best way to do this is to talk with friends who've recently "flown" into a new job.  There are now thousands of websites and blogs providing job search advice.  I would recommend you read as many as you can.  A great compilation or magazine rack of blogs can be found at AllTop.

The "Unemployment Office" has been replaced by automated procedures, just like the airline ticket agents.  You might find it frustrating to not speak with someone in person.  Persevere, find the loop holes and talk with other veteran travelers.

There are long snaky lines at security points.  On-line applications are used to weed out candidates.  Learn what it is going to take to get yourself through this security.  I happened to notice while flying, special privileges were given to flight crew. 

Last but not least, have your phone and laptop ready at all times.  You need to stay connected.

Whether your destination be for business or pleasure, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Research to Make the Information Stick

There is a funny thing that happens when you have to research and write a report...the information sticks. 

I still remember a report I had to write in 4th grade about Polar Bears.  I also remember a report I worked on in 5th grade on the state of Texas.  We all have had to write numerous reports over the course of our lives.  Do you remember anything about the topic you reported on? 

Chances are you still remember some of facts.  Why is that?  Perhaps the topic was interesting.  Perhaps your immersion in the subject was all it took. 

When you are seeking employment, the recommendation to select 40-50 target companies is loosely based on this same idea.  As you begin to compile your data from the research of these companies, the information will most likely stick.  You might feel a connection or a greater interest in some of those companies.  This increased interest is visible on the outside.  It is one of the most attractive qualities to future employers.

It has been my experience that job seekers don't research companies completely until the interview has been scheduled.  They cram to soak up all the information they can in a very short time period. 

Why not start today conducting your research on the companies you would like to work for.  What harm can it do?  Will you learn more about your industry in doing this?  Will you gain insight and begin to recognize key names of people in that industry? 

Become a SME (subject matter expert) in your industry.  This is bigger than your occupation.  You will want to be a SME within your occupation as well but understanding the bigger picture will benefit you in the long run.

There are many good resources for conducting research and compiling data.  Do you have a favorite list of questions or areas of investigation you use to research? 

Summary Sunday

This Summary Sunday features posts and videos about the personal branding, social media, updates on employment and professional development. 

Yuck,  I hear some saying.  I don't want to have a personal brand.  But you already do, you just don't realize it.  Your personal brand is your reputation.  It is what people are thinking or saying about you.  Visit these links to learn more:

VideoBio Walter Akana from Reach Personal Branding TV

Invisibility Killing Your Career?  from Tim's Strategy

Professional Development Lessons Kung Fu Panda Style from Dragos Roua

What's New in the Labor Market?

Senior Executives Dissatisfied Following Recession from Talent Management Tech

5 Changes in the Way We Work  from Portfolio Careers

Social Media and networking are no longer an option...Here are some reasons why you should start playing

How Can You Use Social Networks to Conduct Market Research?  from iWrite Marketing

Twitter and Me - An Anniversary from Dorothy Dalton

Twitter Personal Branding- Get the Most out of Re Tweets from Personal Branding Blog

If you are interested in getting this information more quickly, follow me on Twitter!  @careersherpa

Job Search Is No Joking Matter

        
   

As a member of a community of resume writers and career coaches called the Career Collective, this post is one of many responses to “How to avoid being tricked by common job search blunders?” (in honor of April Fool's Day!)

I encourage you to visit other members' responses, linked below. Please follow our hashtag on Twitter: #careercollective.

  I want to thank Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, MRW, CPRW, CEIP (www.careertrend.net) and Miriam Salpeter (www.keppiecareers.com) for bringing this team of experts together. 

Whether you are currently unemployed or plan on changing jobs, right now is the time to get your ducks in a row!  It has been said that today's job search is not like it used to be (in the good old days).

These are some things you can cross off your list and avoid:

• Searching Sunday's Help Wanted ads in the newspapers
• Waiting for a response from the company that they received your resume
• Waiting for a response from the company that they would like to interview you, again
  
• Typing your resume and going to the "copy shop" to have 100's of copies made
• Using the same generic cover letter and mass mailing this stuff everywhere
• Logging onto the "best" job search boards to find your next job
• Waiting until your unemployment is almost over to "really" start looking for a job

Phew, no need to worry about those time commitments.  Now you can focus on the really important things!

• Identify several different job titles to pursue
• Develop a list of companies that hire those titles
• Craft your LinkedIn profile
• Draft resumes for each of job titles you are pursuing (you will have to customize each resume whenever you submit it)
• Take steps to find people who work in those target companies (ie. network)
• Nurture relationships before, during and after the search! (Ooops, but it is never too late)
• Gather information, don't ask for jobs
• Be patient. Be giving. Be kind.

If you've been in job search for awhile, this is too basic, I know.  For the advanced job seeker (which no-one wants to admit to):

1. Focus your communication. Don't send mixed messages
2. Evaluate what is working and what isn't getting you results
3. Take care of yourself
4. Ensure your reputation and brand are on the web...LinkedIn, Facebook, Virtual CV, Google Profile, etc.
5. Commit time to volunteer in something that will feel rewarding
6. Do something every day that pushes you out of your comfort zone
7. Ask for help- financial, emotional, job search
8. Do not hide behind your computer

Don't stop reading yet...Visit the expert advice for “How to avoid being tricked by common job search blunders?”

The April, 2010, Career Collective Links

10 Ways to Tell if Your Job Search is a Joke, @careerealism

April Fool’s Day – Who’s Fooling Who?, @MartinBuckland @EliteResumes

If It’s Not You and It’s Not True, You’re Fooling Yourself, @GayleHoward

Don’t Kid Yourself! (The Person You See in the Mirror is a Good Hire), @chandlee

Avoiding the Most Common Blunder, @jobhuntorg

Are you fooling yourself? Bored at work? Is it your own fault?, @keppie_careers

Hey, Job Seeker — Don’t Be a Fool!, @resumeservice

Is Your #Career in Recovery or Retreat? (All Joking Aside), @KCCareerCoach

9 Ways You Might Be Fooling Yourself About Your Job Search, @heatherhuhman

Don’t get tricked by these 3 job search blunders, @LaurieBerenson

Trying to hard to be nobody’s fool?,  @WorkWithIllness

It’s not all about you, @DawnBugni

Mirror ‘their’ needs, not ‘your’ wants in #jobsearch, @ValueIntoWords

Stop Fooling Yourself about your Job Hunt: Things you may be doing to sabotage yourself – @erinkennedycprw

Same as it ever was – @walterakana

Don’t be fooled. Avoid these – @kat_hansen

Job Seekers: You Are Fooling Yourself If...@barbarasafani

Follow us on Twitter with our hashtag #careercollective

How Can I Help

If you are out of work or looking to make a change, the best advice I can give is to figure out what you want to do next.  Not as easy as it sounds, I know.  Without a focus or without a clear idea of what you're strengths are, no one is going to be able to help you, except a career counselor.

It is not the job of your friends and family to know about the thousands of different jobs available.  They only know what they know. 

A friend of mine got off the phone with someone whom they had been connected with to help provide insight and advice.  My friend was trying to help.  When he got off the phone he said to me, "I have no idea what he looking for and I have no idea what he does."  They were on the phone for at least 20 minutes.  Is there a problem here? 

People do want to help but you have to be clear.

Some example intros for career exploration:

• I am interested in learning from you how non-profits differ from for-profit businesses.  What are their challenges and where are their needs.
• I enjoy being the interface with customers- helping them with their problems and providing resources that might help them.  What do they call this where you work?
• You've been in several different lines of work, what have you found to be the most satisfying and why?
• If you were to change careers right now, what would you do?
• I've always wanted to be a teacher of some sort.  How would you suggest I break into teaching?

Of course you will also have to use your elevator pitch or 45 second commercial.  This brief bio has to be spoken with passion and conviction.  It also has to be forward thinking, not a laundry list of past work history, no one cares where you've been early in a conversation.

I am an educator with vast experience conveying new concepts and ideas in many different industries from manufacturing to technology.  I've been fortunate to have had the opportunity to increase the performance of teams and individuals.  My research has indicated that a corporate trainer, teacher's aide or HR Generalist would be potential opportunities to pursue. 

This type of pitch helps the listener understand how they can help.  It is future focused and minimally touches upon past lingo or experience. 

My hunch is, that as the conversation continues, the listener will ask for more information.  Be ready to provide your information concisely, avoid long drawn out explanations.  The listener is trying to piece together their connection and offer help.  Listen closely. Explore and learn. 

Do you have questions you have found to be helpful in exploring new careers?  Please, share them so we can all learn! 

Summary Sunday

I would like to share this thought provoking video.  Chris Brogan had a post this week What I learned at a Charter School and this was submitted in the comments. This video from TED Talks is by Sir Ken Robinson who is highly entertaining and intelligent! 

These posts are to help you with your search!  Happy reading.

Nurture:  The follow up after the follow up from Jibberjobber.com

5 Reasons Your Social Network Isn't Working from Careerealism

8 Easy Ways to Network on Twitter from Social Media Examiner

Thinking Creatively About Your Job Search from UpMo

How to Discuss Your Job Search with Your Family from Computerworld

Differences Between Large Corporations and Small Start Ups

Downsizing, rightsizing, whatever they call it, has occurred in large corporations as well as in small companies.  The number of people coming out of large corporations is much greater than out of small companies.  This has been going on for awhile and what we're seeing is that hiring in both large and small organizations is limited. 

No new news so far, I know.  What I want to help job seekers understand is that there are differences in what employers look for, that larger is not always better and it is important to know how your experience will be valued in small or large, because you need to play to both audiences.  You need to keep your options open.  There are many more small companies than large companies.

I am going to make generalizations and I know that is dangerous.  Let me preface this all by saying I've worked for a company with 4 employees and I've worked for a company with 2,000 employees.  My personal preference has been working with the smaller guys!

There are certain job titles that exist in large companies and not in small companies.  However, the functions performed typically exist in both sizes. 

When I worked for a small company I was called the Office Manager.  I reported to a Senior Vice President.  Besides performing office management functions, I had to unload shipments, sell our services and water the plants.  There was a huge variety to my day and I had opportunities to try out new skills and develop existing skills.  I worked hard, no doubt but looking back it was a great experience and gave me the opportunity to do new things.

It used to be that at certain parts of our careers we could expect certain things.  Those expectations may not be so real any longer.  The world has changed.  Corporations have changed.  We find ourselves no longer able to pursue the goal of the gold watch for 30 years of service. 

I found these posts to shed some additional light on the differences between large and small.

Leadership Development for “The Little Guys”

Top 3 Myths About Leadership in Large Companies

Why do big companies suck?

Most likely, you've had your own experiences with a large vs. small company shift.  What have you found?  Please, tell me in a comment! 

Summary Sunday

First, let me wish you all a happy Spring!  It is officially here and this weekend in upstate New York has us thinking and dreaming of the warm months ahead.

Here are some of the posts and websites I've referenced this week. 

Are You a Hiring Manager's "Dream Employee" Part 1 by Jeff Lipschultz on Emerse

There's More to Your Career Than Passion by Rich DeMatteo of Corn on the Job

Update: Jobs Bill Signed Into Law by Heather Huhman on Come Recommended

20 Funniest Job Search and Work FAIL Photos from JobMob

What Duct Tape Marketing Has to do with Your Job Search by Miriam Salpeter of Keppie Careers

4 Things that will Derail Your Job Search Before You Even Get Started from CareerRocketeer

Guide to Finding Jobs Online from Job-Hunt.org

Are you looking for professional association newsletters or just current news from your industry? 
You must check out SmartBrief.  

If you want to catch these posts sooner, feel free to follow me on Twitter.  @Careersherpa

Wear A Suit. Period.

You've heard me say "Perception is Reality" more than once.  Here I go again.  This time, it has to do with the clothes you wear during your job search.

It is really remarkable how good it can feel when you wear the right clothes.  You know that feeling, right?  There is an air of confidence.  A spring in your step.  Am I going overboard?  There have been studies that provide evidence that when you dress up you perform better (or at least feel better about yourself). 

Now is the time to invest in a new interviewing suit.  Yep, I said it.  Go splurge and buy a suit that makes you look and feel terrific.  If you don't trust your instincts, bring a friend along or consult with a store clerk.

While you are at it, buy a pair of shoes to go with the suit.  Toss those old grubby and unpolish-able shoes that no longer say "sharp".

When I was delivering a workshop to a group of teachers who were being laid off, I told them not to dress like teachers during the interview.  As I recall, I think I told them to leave their sweaters and comfortable shoes at home.  "Don't dress frumpy" may have been my exact words.

The reason I am writing this is because professionals, those who have been in the workforce for a considerable number of years are asking the question..."What should I wear?" Amazing, but true. 

For more concrete guidelines on what to wear, please see "If you want to be successful, dress the part" by Erin Kennedy, CPRW, CERW.   While you are at it, follow Erin on Twitter @Erin Kennedy, CPRW, CERW

Dressing the part isn't just for interviews.  It also applies every time you leave your house to meet with people-  coffee, networking events, career fairs, workshops, seminars, meet-ups.  Look the part of the professional you want to be perceived as.

Of course, you could say, why bother dressing up for a workshop.  My thought is, what harm does it do?  It gives you an excuse to wear that super suit when you haven't had an interview in awhile!  (Just kidding).

You could also say, I am just looking for an "X" job which doesn't require I wear a suit.  However, if you do wear a suit, won't you be the most memorable candidate? 

Summary Sunday

Hopefully you remembered to set you clocks ahead today.  Sorry about losing an hour?  Relax, it is going to be lighter later so you'll benefit on the other side! 

Here are my favorite reads from this week.  I hope you find some worthy of sharing with others. 

Social Networking & the Evolution of the Business Card Blogging4Jobs

You Rock  Seth Godin

Interview Question: What questions do you have for me? Cube Rules

4 Things That Will Derail Your Job Search Before You Even Get Started CareerRocketeer

3 Rules for Connecting with People You Don't Know  Career Hub

HR Manager Reveals Secrets to Getting Hired  JobRadio.Fm

Employed But Looking for a New Job?

You have a job and you know you should feel happy.  But, you don't.  You want out!  For the past two years you've been holding on, going the extra mile, performing above and beyond and you just aren't sure you can do it much longer.  Perhaps there has been a recent change in management and your new boss is nothing like your old one. Maybe you've outgrown your position.  Or it could be that you took a job because you needed the paycheck.  Whatever your situation, looking for a job while you are employed has to be addressed carefully.

I was reminded of a time when I was in HR, that I prevented a manager from firing one of his employees.  This employee was "caught" working on his resume.  Last time I checked, this wasn't a reason to fire someone.  However, it was "stupid" on the employee's part.  So when do you look for a new job?

Time seems to be the biggest challenge for employed job seekers.  There just don't seem to be enough hours in the day to balance work, a family, and job search.  Yet, people do it.  So can you.

Laser focus is key.

Before you embark on your search for your next job, you need to be very clear about what you want.  Know what you want to do.  Know what your assets are and know the value you bring to an organization.

Do you tell your boss or not?

To disclose or not depends on many things.  It could work or it could backfire.  Before you decide ask people for advice.  Has anyone done this before in your organization?  What was the outcome?  Should you decide talk to your boss, be ready for the outcome. Will you be ok with staying in a new role?  Will you be ok if you are let go?

Implementing Your Search Delicately

• Build your LinkedIn profile and activity. 
• Set alerts on niche job boards, indeed.com and LinkUp.com
• Develop a target list of companies.  Stalk them on LinkedIn and Twitter.
• Connect with recruiters.
• Network at industry events.
• Post your resume confidentially.

For other ideas, see Tim's Strategy post Top 10 Job Search Strategies for the Passive Job Seeker.

Job search right now is all about networking.  Being employed actually offers you more opportunities to network, so leverage that.  Career Success has a post about networking, here's the link.

2009 was the year of internal hiring/promotion.  2010 is predicted to be the year for more external hiring.  Don't believe me, read this from ERE.net.

Summary Sunday

Trust.  Reliance on another person or entity. Having faith in others and believing them. (from Wikipedia, of course.)

I am beginning to wonder where trust fits within society today.  On one hand, it seems we are holding trust very high on the list of what we expect of others.  On the other hand, we have so many public figures abusing their privilege to be trusted. Tiger Woods, Gov. Paterson, Toyota, Google, and the list goes on and on.

At the core of hiring and employment, trust plays a very important role.  Today's summary are posts related to trust in job search and leadership.  Perhaps you will be able to see where trust fits. 

Building Relationships Organically - Part 4 by Liz Lynch

The trust bureaucracy from Social Media Today

Cheating: The Great Equalizer in a Bad Economy. Even in HR? from Fistful of Talent

4 Devastating Career Killers and How to Avoid them Part 4  from UpMo

I am awaiting the arrival of Trust Agents by Chris Brogan which I just ordered yesterday.  I know, better late than never!  To read more about what Trust Agents is about, here is a link to Brogan's post:  Thinking About Trust Agents

Where does trust fit?  Are there examples of great trust you can share?  Please do in the comment below.

Famous Last Words of Job Seekers

What is the one piece of advice you would give to a fellow job seeker?  What worked in your search?  What didn't?

These questions have been asked many times and the answers come back fairly the same from different successful seekers.  However, the answers aren't as specific as I think you are looking for.  What you really want to know is:  what is the one thing I can do to find a job more quickly.  I don't think there is one answer to this question. 

Here are some of the re-occurring answers to the 3 questions above.

What's the one piece of advice you would give to fellow job seekers?

• Stay positive
• Volunteer
• Network
• Be focused on what you are looking for

What worked for you in your search?

• Being focused on what I was looking for
• Networking more
• Networking less at the big groups
• Applying for more jobs online
• Applying for fewer jobs online
• Contacting recruiters
• Not relying solely on recruiters

What didn't work for you in your search?

• Spending too much time online
• Trying to be all things to all people

See, I told you.  There isn't a simple answer or a quick fix or even one solution that works for everyone.  Each of you come into the job search with a different level of knowledge and understanding about the process.  Each of you has a different approach, comfort level and skill level. 

There's an old saying "Everything in moderation.  Nothing in excess". 

See where you are spending your time and energy and then try to evaluate your results from these activities.  Are they working? 

If you have secured a new job, what are your answers to these three question?

Adapt Your Job Search

It is going to take some new approaches to capture the attention of overwhelmed HR professionals and hiring managers today.  If you are looking for a job right now, most likely you are submitting your resume to posted job openings.  It will take much more than that to secure your next job.  Oh, you already knew this.  So you've heard you need to be networking.  You've been attending networking meetings until you are blue in the face and that doesn't seem to be working either. What else can you do? 

Taking that first step out of your comfort zone generally takes courage.  But where to start?  Jacob Share has posted 8 Creative Ways to Use Social Media for your Job Search  on JobMob.

Some of these ideas are pretty interesting.  In order to be successful with any of these ideas, you will need to implement your strategy well. 

One of the suggestions made is to use a video resume.  If this is something you chose to embark upon, you will want to see some examples.  What is it you hope your video resume will accomplish?  What message are you trying to get across?  It has to be more than just, "Hey, this is what I have done".  Convey your personality, make it high quality and keep it at 1 minute.

Another suggestion was to use Flickr to push your message.  You can get pretty creative here.

The idea behind this post is to develop creative ways to use social media to develop an online presence because you just never know when, where or how your next opportunity will happen.  Using a variety of approaches, especially social media, could increase the odds. 

2009 Hiring Trends In Review

Each year I look forward to CareerXroads Sources of Hire study results.  Why?  Because it justifies what all the expert career coaches are saying. 

We all know how turbulent 2009 was.  The results of this study help point out several things:

51% of Full time jobs were filed by Internal Transfers and Promotions

26.7% of all external hires were from Referrals (#1 external hiring method)

22.3% of Hires attributed to the Company Website

The authors of the study state that hiring attributed to the company website an obvious flaw in sourcing.  However, I believe that the message is getting out to job seekers that the job boards may not be the answer.  The pro-active search method of identifying employers and targeting them for opportunities might be catching on.  Social Media is also catching on.

Please, read the full study and come up with your own conclusions!  Let us know what you think!

How Do You Rate Your Performance as a Job Seeker?

The other day I wrote about what a job description would look like for a job seeker.  I can't stop thinking about the concept.  My belief is that most job seekers have not been given good job descriptions.  They are not performing well (have been in an extended job search) because they do not know what is expected of them.  Nor is anyone evaluating their performance.  As a result, they are frustrated.  And I think employers are frustrated too, because they have to evaluate so many candidates with varying levels of interviewing skills. 

In a networking group we talked about job duties and skills required in the role of job seeker and this is what they came up with:

Duties:

• Managing on line promotion of company brand (your's) 
• Plan and implement marketing strategy/campaign using marketing plan
• Develop new and manage existing relationships
• Ability to perform prospecting on the phone and in person to build a
  pipeline of opportunities
• Increase contact volume and enhance your image in the local community.
• Monitor activities and performance to ensure actual secured jobs meet or exceed established revenue plan.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills Include:

• Demonstrated time management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills (Public speaking a
  plus) 
• Organizational skills
• Customer service skills 
• Database management skills
• Strong active listening abilities 
• Ability to self manage (take initiative and stay motivated) 
• Familiarity of research tools (InfoUSA, ONet, Million Dollar
  Database, and others) 
• Leadership skills 
• Keen understanding of business etiquette

Special Requirements:

Must be a jack of all trades and not afraid to do what it takes to get the job done.  Must learn new things daily.  Working knowledge of technology, including social media and all Microsoft office products.

How would you rate your monthly performance in those areas?

Exceeds Expectations, Meets Expectations, Needs Improvement

Mind Over Matter: Moving Your Stalled Search Forward

As a member of a new community of resume writers and career coaches called the Career Collective, this post is one of many responses to ideas and concrete steps to secure your future in a changed economy.  I encourage you to visit other members' responses, linked below. Please follow our hashtag on Twitter: #careercollective.

 

QUESTION:  What do you do when you’re really, really, really discouraged about your unsuccessful job search? How do you overcome the negative aspects of job search?

Whether you are new to job search or you have been at it longer than you would care to admit, there are some emotional issues that plague every job seeker.

These emotions range from anger, denial, sadness, frustration to depression.  Actually, sometimes you may feel them all at the same time.  These emotions are real and normal. They come with the territory of losing something.  You've lost a job, probably due to no fault of yours.  You have lost co-workers and friends.  You have lost routine and stability and financial security.  You have lost your professional identity.

The important thing to watch out for is that you don't become immobile.  You must keep moving.  Don't stop your search.

But it happens.  You become de-motivated. You can't face one more day of "job search". 

STOP 

Stop what you are doing.  Take some time to reflect on who you really are and what you want out of LIFE.

Use a journal, spreadsheet, napkin, whatever and begin writing down your values and what you love in life.  This is the foundation for moving forward.

LOOK

If you were sick and went to the doctor, the doctor would ask what your symptoms are.  If you are in a stalled job search, and you need help, ask yourself,  what am I doing, how am I spending my time.  Keep a log of your time and activities for one week. Take a step back and look at your search.  You can't dispute facts.  Seeing it in black and white, keeping the vagueness and emotion out of the equation, can help you diagnose your problem.  There's a common saying, if you continue to do the same things, you will continue to get the same results. 

LISTEN

With the napkin or spreadsheet in hand, meet with your friends, family, pastor, ex boss and share your thoughts with them. Ask for their advice:  "What would you do next if you were me?"  Select those people you trust and value. Listen.  Take notes on their advice.

Reflect on the advice you've been given.  Are there similarities?  Are there re-occurring thoughts? 

If you are thinking, I can't do this, I've already done this, I don't have anyone I can talk to, this won't work for me, then you are right, it won't. Try it anyway. 

TAKE CARE OF YOU

When you travel on an airplane, the flight attendant's walk you through the safety guidelines.They say:  "Place the mask over your nose and mouth first so that you may better assist those around you".  These safety guidelines apply to you too. 

• Get enough sleep
• Eat well
• Exercise
• Participate in activities you enjoy (hobby, volunteering, community groups)

@GLHoffman, How to Overcome the Negativity of a Job Search

@jobhuntorg, Just SO VERY Discouraged

@chandlee, Strategy for Getting “Unstuck” and Feeling Better: Watch Lemonade

@heathermundell, Help for the Job Search Blues

@heatherhuhman, 10 Ways to Turn You Job Search Frown Upside-Down

@KCCareerCoach, You Can Beat the Job Search Blues: 5 + 3 Tips to Get Re-Energized

@WalterAkana, Light at the End of the Tunnel

@resumeservice, Don’t Sweat the Job Search

@WorkWithIllness, Finding Opportunity in Quicksand

@KatCareerGal, Job-Hunting in a Weak Job Market: 5 Strategies for Staying Upbeat (and Improving Your Chances of Success)

@ErinKennedyCPRW, Dancing In the Rain-Kicking the Job Search Blues

@keppie_careers, What do do when you are discouraged with your job search

@DawnBugni, It’s the little things

@ValueIntoWords, Restoring Your Joy in Job Search

@barbarasafani, Making Job Search Fun (Yeah, That’s Right!)

@LaurieBerenson,  3 Ways to Keep Your Glass Half Full

@expatcoachmegan, Dealing with Job Search Stress: Getting to the Source of the Problem

@MartinBuckland, Job Search Made Positive

@GayleHoward, Job Search: When It All Turns Sour

LinkedIn Is No Longer Optional. It May Be More Important Than Your Resume

You've heard about LinkedIn.  You have a skeleton of a profile and a few contacts...now why isn't your phone ringing off the hook?

It isn't that simple.  Your LinkedIn profile needs to have quality content.  It needs to convey a message about you.  Invest the time to make your profile 100% complete.  There have been some great articles on how to do this.  Please don't make excuses or say you don't know how. 

Here is two explanations of HOW to complete your profile:

Make Sure Your LinkedIn Profile is 100% Complete from Brand-Yourself.com

Leverage LinkedIn for Personal Branding and Targeted Executive Job Search  by Meg Guiseppi.

Once you have your profile complete, begin to use LinkedIn.  There is no greater teacher than experience. 

If you don't think you need LinkedIn, you should read this post about how to be found using LinkedIn:

How to Be Found By Recruiters On LinkedIn by Marci Reynolds from Job-Hunt.org

7 Ways to Get More Out of LinkedIn by Sharlyn Lauby from Mashable

Please, don't just stop here.  Begin to really USE LinkedIn.  Consider it your networking rolodex or address book.   It will keep track of all the great people you meet as you go through your career.  And there is no need to update your contacts information, no more bounced emails or disconnected phone numbers.  It is done by them when they change jobs.  It is an virtual contact list that never gets outdated!  

LinkedIn is not a fad, it is not a toy, it is an investment in your future.  Learn it and use it to your advantage.

15 Ways Finding a Job is Like Dating

Finding a job is like finding a relationship, you can't really look for one, it sort of finds you.

If you recall how you met your wife or husband, it wasn't because you were looking to meet your future mate, was it?  You probably weren't looking for someone to date either.  I used to say "stop looking and you'll probably find what you are looking for".

There is such a thing a "trying too hard".  Appearing desperate is not attractive, follow this link to find out how to overcome the negative stigma. 

Back to the relationship analogy, finding a job is just like dating.  On iVillage there was a post about the 15 steps to finding a boyfriend and every single one of them applies to a job seeker. 

1. Be realistic

Know what you are looking for.  And remember, it isn't about the money.   

2. Be a hot mama, not a prospective mama

Don't talk about a job too early in the process of networking, that is like talking about what you want to name your children on the first date.  Be attractive first.

3. Make dating a priority

Dating equals networking.  You never know where you'll meet someone.  You have to meet a lot of people before you find the right fit for a relationship.

4. Nix the ex talk

Don't bad mouth past employers or people, ever.

5. Neurotics needn't apply.

You need to be emotionally healthy. 

6. Mind your manners.

Pick up an etiquette hand book if you are unsure of what constitutes good manners. Another reminder: turn your cell phone off before the date/meeting/interview.

7. Similarity breeds success.

Is there a similarity in core values?

8. Present a challenge.

Show interest but don't stalk.

9. Don't be a babbling brook.

Know when to shut your trap and listen.  The two ears, one mouth rule applies.

10. Sunny side up.

Be nice.

11. Be a girl

Don't debate or behave like you are in control.  Male or female, you are a guest, show manners.

12. Look beyond his good looks.

Look deeper than the surface.  Are they putting on their "dating best behavior"?

13. Be mindful of that ole black magic.

Pay attention to your gut instinct,  if something seems to good to be true, it probably is.

14. Hold out before having sex

OK, this doesn't really apply... however, it is very similar to being offered a job, don't accept it on the spot!

15. Go with the flow.

Be willing to compromise. Be flexible!

Amazing how many similarities there are.  Finding a job is like courting.  It takes an investment of time.  Hope this helps.  

Summary Sunday

I am always looking for interesting, beyond the basic career management/job search advice to share.  What I find is that there is a lot of basic information being pumped out.  I guess what that means is that people still need the basics.  "How To" start your search kind of information (write a resume, write a cover letter, conduct an interview, search for jobs on line).

These posts aren't necessarily basic, nor are they advanced...they caught my attention. And by the way, there are blogs you should add to your reader!

You're Not Applying for a Job. You're Running a Campaign.  from Career Hub

A 5 Step Job Search Method that Never Fails   from CareerJockey

49 Personal Branding Questions to Ask Yourself   from Personal Branding Blog

If you want to follow me on Twitter, feel free.  I re-tweet these kinds of great articles daily! 

Follow me on Twitter!

Need A Little Help From Your Friends?

Gosh, I love the Beatles.  I could listen to them all day!  Each song inspires or connects to wonderful memories.  As a job seeker, you don't want to lose sight of the happy, positive things in life.

The job search process is 90% psychological.  It doesn't make us feel very good; therefore, you need to do things that will.

This is a series of posts containing ways to make your job search better:  Job Search Advice in Review

This is another post about a very important lesson of job search/career management:  Being a good listener

Keep moving, forward, sideways, even a step back... just keep moving!  You are learning as you move!

Stay "On Brand" and Cater to Your Desired Audience

It is wonderful that there are so many networking groups around for the unemployed.  These groups offer wonderful support and ideas.  They also offer great opportunities to meet new people whom you instantly have something in common (job search).  These groups offer the opportunity to meet people from other industries and backgrounds you may not have interacted with before.  All this is good.

You know the old saying, everything in moderation.  That's where I am going next.  Use these networking groups to support your job search, however, don't stop there.  Join professional associations related to your desired new occupation.  Become involved in volunteer work that will allow you to use your talent. 

Beyond job seeker networking groups, there are GROUPS on LinkedIn.  It is also important to have a mix of professional interests represented here.  What I mean is, join and participate in groups that have something to do with your next career move. 

Recently, I was looking at a LinkedIn profile of someone who belonged to almost 50 groups (50 is the maximum you can belong to).  More than half of the groups this woman was affiliated with were "job search related".  She was missing an opportunity to interact and develop relationships targeted towards her next goal.  

Part of social media and networking is becoming known as an expert.  I don't think anyone wants to become known as being an expert job seeker!  I don't want to bash these forums, they are important, but...everything in moderation.  Networking is networking.  I have always been an advocate of networking with the unemployed.  They are very empathetic and probably more in tune with the job market than those that are employed.  However...there is an element of marketing involved in job search as well.

Know your audience.  Cater to them.

Post status updates related to your industry or occupation more than what job seeker related events you are attending or other details about your search.

I read a post the other day on the 4 P's of Social Media.  Here is the link.  The original content is credited to Buzz Marketing for Technology.

These 4 P's have to do with promoting you!  The talents and skills and knowledge you bring to the table. You want to be sought after for your demonstrated knowledge.  Using social media is a way to get the message out there and share what you know about your new career, NOT JOB SEARCH (unless you want to become a job search coach).

As you use Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn for your search, consider sharing information that demonstrates your knowledge more than what you had for breakfast or other "off-brand" information.

Find trade publications or industry newsletters to read.  Then you can share interesting articles from those.  Here are some resources to find on-line content:

SmartBriefAllTop

AllTop

WebWire

Weddle's Association Directory

Executive's Set the Pace for Job Search Trends

The 2009 ExecuNet Executive Job Market Intelligence Report is out!  Understanding what is happening with these C-Level folks (CEO, CFO, COO, CMO, CIO, etc) offers wisdom for us all.  Download the full report by going to their site!

This summary is in its 18th year and provides an overview of what executives have seen in the past year and offers a glimpse of things to come.

This year has been particularly challenging for everyone.  The first part of 2010 isn't looking much better.  With that said, there are some positives emerging from this economic recession.

Executives have learned to be more resilient

The summary states the tenure of executives is shortening and that many executives are learning to transfer their backgrounds to new industries.  The summary also states that executive should be open to relocation which would increase their options.

Executives understand the data

When considering an industry change, understanding where the growth opportunities are is vital!  So is understanding the reality of finding the next job. 

Executives are looking for satisfying jobs

Executives are building life-long connections

Please, read the full summary for additional information and to draw your own conclusions! You won't regret it. 

Reasons to stop hiding behind your computer

A month ago I wrote this post about turning off your computer.  Lately, I have been giving this advice to job seekers a lot.  TURN OFF YOUR COMPUTER!  During the normal business hours (7 am - 8 pm) you can't afford to not be seen.  There are plenty of hours in the day in which you can log in, if you feel you must.

Job seekers are hiding behind their monitors.  It is easy to submit a resume and cover letter online.  And it is easy to say "I've done my part, the rest is up to the hiring company".  That's convenient.  Put the ball in someone else's court.

Here are reasons why you should feel comfortable logging off:

• Some experts say that by the time a job posting hits the website, it has already been filled or there is a pipeline of candidates.
• Your computer isn't going to offer you a job.
• Being a "best kept secret" is not a good marketing strategy for you.
• Politicians don't sit at home when they are running for election, why would you?

Have some fun, get out of your house and turn every opportunity into  a chance to meet someone new.  You never know who or what they'll know.

Are You an Olympic Athlete?

What does an Olympic athlete have in common with a job seeker?  Drive, dedication, passion.  And let's not forget the ability and desire to compete.

I love watching the Olympics.  No where else can you see such a strong a demonstration of commitment and this commitment and passion generally drives me to tears. 

These athletes have been preparing their entire lives to compete.  They have made sacrifices in the name of their passion and gift.  They take risks and know that failure will come with risk-taking.  Yet, there they are.  Only 3 of them will be honorably recognized.  Was it worth it for them?  It was their dream.

At the core of their motivation is their passion for what they are doing.  Have you identified your passion?  Are you pursuing your next career with the same outlook as the Olympic athlete?

They are training every day.  Are you practicing every day? 

They are experimenting with new techniques and moves and methods to improve their performance.  Are you investing in yourself and your professional development? 

They have a coach and team-mates who push them and hold them accountable.  Do you?

As you watch the Olympics, draw your own analogies and see which ones you can incorporate in managing your career.

"Best Of" tools for Job Seekers

Learning about related or tangent careers is something most job seekers struggle with.  Whether it is re-naming what you use as a job title or drastically changing careers, learning the new terminology can be a challenge.

Before you can move forward with your search, you have to figure out what you want to do and give it a name.  Hopefully this will be the most accurate name/title.  This can be difficult because companies use different job titles. 

One of the easier ways to find out related job titles is to go to O*Net.  

From this main page, select Browse under FIND OCCUPATIONS and type in your old job title.  

This will provide you with a Summary Report listing: similar job titles, tasks/job description, tools and technology, skills, education, wages and trends, related occupations, etc.  

With a little playing around you can begin exploring more related occupations and learn about their requirements. 

People, job seekers, ask a lot, "I want to know what jobs are in demand or fore-casted to be in demand".  Actually, that isn't really how they phrase it.  They ask:  "I want to find a job that is secure, where would I find it?" 

Occupational Outlook Quarterly does a thorough job explaining where industries are headed and what occupations will be needed. 

Last, but not least, the Department of Labor has released its survey results of tools people feel to be most helpful.  They all appear on Job Seeker Tools.  

Personally, I wouldn't consider job boards a tool right now, but...

Under the heading of CAREER EXPLORATION TOOLS, there seems to be some resources that might assist with exploring new jobs that are a match for your interest, skills and abilities.  

Once you have begun to create a list of titles that interest you, start asking people what they think and who they know. (These can be called networking meetings or informational meetings, by the way). In speaking with people really doing the job, you will learn whether this might be the right direction for you, or not.  No investment in this process is a waste of time.  Think about what you've learned and who you've met as you've gone through the process. 

Numbers Talk In Job Search

There are many job seekers out who think their job search is measured only by number of interviews they've had.  This couldn't be farther from the reality of things.  Job search is a sales cycle.  It will take a lot of activities to generate interviews and you need to be able to measure what is working FOR YOU and what is not. Additionally, securing your next job will take you longer than you want or expect.  Most of that is out of your control.  Employers are taking longer to make their hiring decisions.  Factor that in.  Know that and be prepared for the long haul.  While there are certain metrics that are more successful than others, job search is individual.  You may have success in one area and not another.  Let's look at some of the numbers you must be tracking.

HOURS

Recently the Department of Labor stats stated that the average job seeker spends only 18 minutes a day in search.  At that rate, no wonder people are unemployed for over a year.  The more hours you commit to your job search, the faster you will land a job.  This is a full time job.

Make it easy to track your hours.  Keep a log with you job search folder.  Use categories of hours if you really want to understand where you are spending your time.  Here are some thoughts:

• Computer time
• Face time
• Phone time
• You time

ACTIVITIES

What are the activities that have the biggest bang for the buck?  Networking activities.  Yet there are other things you should be doing.  Start keeping track so you can increase or decrease activities based on their results.  Like "Weight Watchers" setting goals or targets weekly will hopefully drive you to meet these goals. Perhaps you will make one more call or attend that one meeting that will net you a great connection.

• On-line job postings
• Networking in person: one on one
• Networking in groups
• On-line brand management (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or other on-line networking)
• Research (company, person, industry)
• Administration (resume tweak, marketing plan update, cover & thank you, applications)
• Professional development (workshops, reading, professional associations)
• Volunteer
• Connect with recruiters/search firms

INTERVIEWS

There are phone screening interviews, first interviews and second interviews... There should be a conversion rate here.  If you are getting first interview but not second interviews, that means you will need to work on your interviewing skills. 

• Phone screen
• First Interview
• Second Interview

I've been told many times that tracking this stuff is a waste of time.  My belief is that is critically important to know this stuff.  How can you do an analysis?  How can you improve what you are doing or change what you are doing if you can't tell exactly what you are doing. 

From my experience working with job seekers, it is going to take hundreds of hours, networking contacts and 100% of your commitment to make your next job happen.

There is a progress chart used by Orville Pierson which can be helpful in setting up your tracking system.  You can learn how to fix your search and access an Excel version of the progress chart here.  

Plan and Execute Your Job Search Using Gantt Charts from CareerRocketeer, also lays out a plan for tracking your search efforts!

Job Search Would Make A Great Reality Show

"Life imitates art far more than art imitates Life." — Oscar Wilde

If you have ever watched any of the "Housewives of ...." series, you see how ludicrous people's lives can be.  If you watch "The Biggest Loser", you might become entangled in the lives of those who are racing the clock to lose weight.  So why hasn't there been a show about job searching?  It truly would make an excellent reality show.  And there certainly would be no shortage of candidates to follow right now.

The Wall Street Journal selects job seekers to document their journey in a blog format.  It is interesting and insightful. Check out Laid Off and Looking.

I used to watch Super Nanny and loved to see how to better discipline toddlers and create schedules for the family.  I learned as I watched the show and I was entertained as well.  The nice part about watching this was being able to see the "before" behaviors and the "after" behaviors.  Seeing is believing.  It is possible to make a change and get the desired results- and with a dash of humor mixed in.

I don't suppose the job seeker reality show is coming anytime soon, so in place of the show, learn from fellow job seekers.  Watch and listen as they tell their stories of search.  They made mistakes, they tried some new things, some worked and some didn't.  Learn to step out of your comfort zone.  Of course, talk to people who have secured new jobs, too.  They have success behind them and as they tell their stories, you will undoubtedly hear of their many losses.  They frequently tell you what they would have done differently and will openly share their advice.  Take it and process it.

If you know any producers, pass the idea along.  Reality Job Search.  It would bring the issue into the main stream and teach the thousands of unemployed and those soon to be unemployed valuable lessons. 

Summary Sunday

Summary Sunday is a collection of posts from my reader and tweets.  There really is no rhyme or reason for their being selected...they just caught my eye.  There is a lot of good advice out there.

 

Alternative Personal Branding Books from Brand-Yourself.com

• If you are looking for a good book to read on Personal Branding, this post has picked the top 5 (they are on my reading list too). 

Fight Back! Five Blogs for Better Networking! from UpMo

• Perhaps you are looking for networking advice/help/insight.  Here are some suggestions of blogs to read.

Personal Branding.tv from Reach Personal Branding (by William Arruda et al)

• There is a brand new website for video help for your career management.

The New Career "Normal" = Get Reckless

• From CAREEREALISM, JT O'Donnell interviews Seth Godin...this says it all in my mind.  Worth watching!

Avoid these 9 Cold Call Mistakes from Cold Calling Master Class

• Looking for help making cold calls?  This is written by a sales professional for sales professionals, which we all must become.

3 Common Mistakes Made By Job Seekers

If you are about to embark on a search for a new job, either by force or by choice, make sure you avoid these mistakes. You are going to need to use a different approach from the last time you looked.

#1 Be clear about what you are looking for

Don't just tell people you are looking for a new job.  They probably don't know how to help you find one either.   Be specific, even if you aren't sure. 

"I am pursuing a new job.  I think I would like to try something different and I have always wanted to be a teacher.  Could I get your advice on related careers you may see me in?"

"I would like your help.  I want to work for a company like ABC.  What do you know about them?"

If you are sure, then provide your listener with focus to best help you.

"As I look for a new physicist position, I would like your help in finding connections within optics or laser companies in the area.  When would be a good time to sit down?"

#2 Don't spend all your time on-line

It is easy to get lured into the on-line job boards.  Don't fall for that.  The majority of jobs are secured through networking contacts.  Limit the amount of time you spend hiding behind your computer.  Also, make sure that you are not logged in during the hours of 9am-5pm.  That is prime time for connecting with people in person.  

#3 Customize your resume for each job you apply for

It takes time to customize and re-order the bullets under your work history, however, you want to make sure the employer is seeing the correct/relevant examples of your experience in order to see how you'll be a fit.  If it isn't on the resume, the employer doesn't know about it. 

You may think the cover letter explains it all...however, not every person reads a cover letter.  It is a personal preference.  Yes, write one, but don't expect it to explain what your resume doesn't address about why you are qualified for the job.

There are plenty of other areas for improvement, but those are three of the most important.  Here are some other suggestions for starting your search off correctly.

• Get on LinkedIn and make sure your profile is complete and that you have over 50 really solid connections.
• Develop a marketing plan and identify 50+ target companies
• Practice your answers to interview questions starting today
• Don't be a solution to every one's problems, know what you are good at and stay focused
• Research companies and learn
• Invest in professional development
• Attend professional associations
• Become involved in volunteer groups that align with your values

Finding your next job will take longer than you want.  Some of that is out of your control.  Have a good plan and follow it, but don't forget to assess the results.  If it isn't working, try something different or read Why Isn't My Job Search Working?

Why Do Job Seekers Obsess Over Their Resumes?

How many people have actually been hired because they had a kick a** resume?  Really?  Did the new boss actually say, "the reason I hired you was because your resume was excellent"? 

The resume can be a door opener.  Can be.  But it depends on so many things. 

• Does it meet the personal preferences of that individual?  Everyone likes to see different styles of resumes. 
• Has it demonstrated you have the exact skills and more importantly background and experience they are looking for?  Or that they think they are looking for?
• Did it get enough key word hits from their resume reading software? 
• Did the intern or new HR recruiter understand what you were talking about?  Will they forward it along?

In many cases, a referral or personal endorsement, is the reason your resume got read or pulled from the stack of hundreds.  This referral may actually be the only reason you were called in for an interview. 

Hiring decisions are made during the interview.  No matter what your resume says, it is your performance during the interview that either moves you forward or not. 

So what will your strategy be to get yourself prepared for the interview?  Do you rehearse?  Do you practice in front of a mirror or video camera?

Most new job seekers ask for help with their resumes. WRONG. WRONG.  WRONG.  They need help in assessing their strengths and developing a marketing plan which will guide their networking activities.  Then they need to begin learning about the needs of their target companies.  Only after these things have been done is the job seeker ready to write a document that addresses the specific needs of those companies.  This is called Marketing .  

It is my contention that if job seekers put twice as much effort into self assessment and market research (instead of obsessing over their resumes) they would be a great deal more active and productive.