There are two kinds of job searches: reactive and proactive. Most people use reactive job search strategies, which means they look for job openings and then apply for the ones that interest them. So, when you send your resume to recruiters and respond to job board postings, you are really at the mercy of what comes up.
In a proactive job search, you pick the companies and the jobs you are seeking. That way, you get the job you chose and worked to get versus just hoping a good job comes your way through recruiters and job boards.
Before you start your job search, make sure you have a well-optimized resume and LinkedIn profile, since employers will use these to see if you're a great candidate for the job. Once you've updated your resume and LinkedIn profile, you're ready to begin your proactive job search.
Here are four key steps in a proactive job search.
There are a number of ways you can identify companies. Start by making a list of 10-20 companies you think you would love to work for. This is your interview bucket list.
Talk to your friends and colleagues and see who they recommend as well. Note that LinkedIn has a very strong company search feature that can help. Go to LinkedIn, click on the search bar, and hit enter. Then, select the "Companies" filter at the top of the page and search.
If you find a company that interests you, click on its profile and see if you're passionate about a product or service it provides, or its mission. If you are, then you should probably add the company to your list.
The next step in a proactive job search is to learn more about the organization and determine if it is a place you really want to work. There are a number of ways to do this. The first thing to do is to visit the company website and go to the "About Us" section. You can review the company's history, products, and services, and make sure to check out any press releases to see the latest newsworthy events.
Make sure you look at the company's blog too—if it has one—as it gives you a good idea of the company's areas of expertise and corporate culture. Also, check out its social media accounts to get a better idea of the company culture, and remember to follow them.
Also, there are a number of excellent tools like Glassdoor that provide anonymous reviews of thousands of companies, salaries being paid, reviews of the corporate culture, and evaluations of top executives. Sometimes they will even show you questions that are asked in an interview. It's a good idea to research companies on this site and on similar sites during your proactive job search.
Go back to LinkedIn's company search capability and enter the name of the company that interests you. Note that when the listing comes up, it will tell you how many people in your network are employed there. This is a good place to start and you can reach out to these people for assistance.
Tip: People respond much better when they are asked for advice versus being asked to help someone get a job.
A good message to send to your connections on LinkedIn might be: "I am looking at XYZ as a potential employer and was wondering if you could tell me about the corporate culture there?" You can also send this type of message to your extended network.
Now that you have identified companies that interest you, it is time to identify people who work there. Again, LinkedIn is a great tool here.
Start by identifying the hiring manager and staff in the area you wish to join. Look for people who would be your peers and their managers.
Now see what LinkedIn Groups they've joined. This is important because if you join the same group, you can now communicate with them for free without updating your LinkedIn account.
Look to see if they have participated in any group discussions. This is a great way to enter the conversation and start showcasing your expertise. And remember to keep your comments upbeat, positive, and professional.
Now look to see if you have people in your LinkedIn contacts who can provide an introduction to them. Ask what they know about the company and if they recommend them as a potential employer. Ask them what they think is the best way to get introduced.
Note that you did not ask them to introduce you, but rather you asked them for advice on how to get introduced. You're not asking for a favor.
Finally, reach out to the hiring manager. Make sure you have a good 30-second elevator pitch that briefly describes your background and value proposition. And remember that people hire people they like so try to build rapport.
A proactive job search takes discipline so set weekly goals for yourself. The benefit is you will end up in a job that you chose instead of one you got through happenstance.
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When we're no longer happy and satisfied with our day job, we tend to look for something that will give us that satisfaction or fulfillment. At some point in your life, the thought of changing careers is something that will come across your mind. Although there might be a desire to do it, some people don't have enough courage to leave their job and find another one.
Many of us decide to stay in our comfort zone because we think that it's the safest thing to do. But what we don't realize is that it tends to weaken our future career steps.
If you feel like you're stuck in a dead-end job, you have to do something to move forward. Break the fear barrier and the habit of staying in your comfort zone, embrace change, and look for career growth.
Before you embark on the idea of shifting careers, make sure to have a definite plan. What are the things you need to consider before shifting to another career field?
Here's some advice for career shifters.
Are you happy with your day job? What motivates you to stay in your workplace? Take some time and reflect on yourself. Do you feel productive in your work? When was the last time you challenged yourself in your job? If you feel unchallenged by your duties and you don't feel valued anymore in your work, perhaps thinking of leaving your job is the best thing that you can do.
For career changers, transferable skills are important for finding suitable jobs. If you have acquired skills, knowledge, and work experiences in your former jobs, you can use them in your future career endeavor. Figure out which company you want to work for and evaluate your transferable skills. Determine what skills you can contribute to the company so you can choose a career that utilizes your abilities and talents.
There are plenty of jobs you can choose from and, unfortunately, you cannot take all of them. You only need to pick one that best utilizes your abilities and fits your interests.
Avoid applying for too many positions. It is better to focus only on jobs that you're qualified for. Before sending your CVs to some prospective companies, do not forget to do your homework. Spend a bit of your time researching the company you want to apply to. This step will give you an advantage over your competition.
Do you have an ultimate career goal? What is it? Most employers want to know the long-term goals of their applicants. The better goals you have, the greater the chance you will get hired. If you're still unsure of your goals, you better make up your mind ASAP!
As you transfer from one company to another, forget not the benefits that you deserve to receive. Don't settle for less. Know your worth and prioritize your personal needs.
If you already have work experience, many companies will surely offer you great benefits and a high salary. Although they may have interesting benefits for you, make sure you are capable of the job and that you can deliver well.
Become realistic in setting your job expectations. Think of the future of your chosen profession. Do you see yourself working in this field for a long time? Are you happy working in this kind of job? If not, considering other career options might help you find the right path for you.
Set a specific timeframe or date you expect to reach your career goals. You will become highly motivated to do your job if you push yourself to achieve your realistic career objectives.
Once you're certain that you want to change careers, then you should start acting on it. There are risks in shifting careers, but if you really want to pursue your professional desires and find that sense of fulfillment in your job, then go for it. The decision is all yours.
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Are you OVER your job? Maybe it's not challenging anymore, maybe you're underpaid, or maybe your boss just doesn't appreciate you. Whatever it is, you know it's time for a change, but are you really ready to quit your job?
Quitting is risky, but it can also be rewarding if you do it right. So, are you ready to hand in your resignation? Take this quiz to find out.
(a) Yes, and I've enjoyed most of it.
(b) No, I'm still pretty new to the job.
(c) Yes, but I've been there WAY longer than that.
(a) Nope! I still love the work I do.
(b) Maybe a little. I'm not really sure anymore.
(c) Yes. I don't know why I got into this kind of work in the first place.
(a) Yes.
(b) Yes, but I'm not really interested in moving up.
(c) No. I'm going to be stuck in my current role until someone retires.
(a) No. I find the work interesting, but I could use more of a challenge.
(b) Yes. I'm constantly zoning out and procrastinating.
(c) Bored? I wish! I'm straight-up stressed out and exhausted all of the time.
(a) Yes! I love my life outside of work.
(b) Eh, I could use a few more hobbies in my life.
(c) Other aspects of your life? People have those?
(a) Nope. Our company is doing very well, actually.
(b) I'm not really sure.
(c) Yes, and I'm afraid I'm going to lose my job.
(a) No way! I love my boss.
(b) Sometimes it's pretty bad, but I've learned to deal with it.
(c) Toxic? That's a nice way of putting it...
(a) No. My boss praises my accomplishments on a regular basis.
(b) Eh, I could use a few more pats on the back, I guess.
(c) Yes. Either my hard work goes unnoticed or someone else takes credit for it!
(a) No, I get a fair paycheck.
(b) The pay could be better.
(c) I definitely deserve a fatter paycheck for all of the extra work I put in.
(a) Yes, but I'm not sure I want to work at a new company.
(b) No. I'm already struggling to pay my bills each month.
(c) Probably. It might be tight for a little while, though.
(a) Honestly, I haven't really looked.
(b) Yes, but I'm not really sure if I'm willing to take the chance on a new job yet.
(c) Yes! Better work, better boss, and better pay!
Mostly As: You're just ready for a promotion.
You love the work you do, but you find yourself getting bored. The work just isn't challenging anymore. Perhaps it's time to get a promotion! Click here for some tips on landing that promotion you deserve.
Mostly Bs: You're probably not ready to quit just yet.
You might not be in the position to quit just yet; however, you should definitely consider your options. You don't seem too happy at your current job. Maybe the work isn't challenging anymore. Maybe it wasn't what you thought it was when you first took the job. Whatever it is, something isn't right. If you are considering quitting, read this article to get some guidance.
Mostly Cs: Get out of there, FAST!
The time has come, the Walrus said, to GET OUT! Life is too short to work in such a toxic environment. Not only that, but the work is nothing like you expected it to be when you started. You're stressed out all the time and it's taking a toll on your life outside of the office. It's probably time to move on and out, especially if you have an offer in hand. However, don't just quit during an emotional meltdown. Be smart and be prepared. Read this article to learn how to quit the RIGHT way.
Quitting without a job comes with major risks, especially in this economy. Employers will often assume you got fired or you are too high maintenance and lack patience. Before you quit, make sure you've got a plan in place!
Want to quit, but don't have a job offer in hand?
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So, you've been on a career break. How long has it been? Three years, five years, more? Whether you took time off to care for your children or travel the world, relaunching your career is a major undertaking, especially these days. Just sending out a bunch of resumes won't do the trick.
Here are some effective tips and steps for relaunching your career that you can start doing immediately to help you reach your goal of getting back into the workforce.
Prospective employers are going to ask you what you've been doing for the last few years. Make sure you have the story down pat and can tell it confidently. Don't be sheepish. Taking a break from work, whatever the reason (save incarceration), was a choice you made—and you don't need to apologize for it.
Everything you say should be true, of course, but you choose what the takeaway of the story is. Second, you're going to need to have a good answer to the question of why you're getting back into the workforce. Note: "I have a mortgage to pay; gambling debts; or momma needs a new pair of shoes," are not good responses. You don't want to seem needy or desperate.
To come up with a good answer, think about those things you loved about your job before you took your break. Talk about the passion you had for your career, about your craving for intellectual stimulation, about your ambition.
It's also important to think of these things in the context of each job you're applying for. Why do you want to work for this specific company? What problem do you want to help them solve? How do you connect with their mission and values as an organization?
Asking yourself all of these questions will help you get your career story straight before going into your first job interviews.
When you take your break, you don't have to turn your back on your career altogether. Look for opportunities to stay connected. This can mean consulting, volunteering, or freelancing. It's a matter of keeping at least one toe in the work realm.
Kelly, for instance, worked as a graphic designer for a major newspaper until she decided to leave the daily grind to care for her young son. To stay connected to her field, Kelly began freelancing every Sunday for her former employer. She also kept her skills honed by designing a monthly newsletter for her moms' club. Through these efforts, Kelly remained close to her profession and continued to build her portfolio even while on a career break.
If you haven't stayed connected to your career throughout your break, it's not too late to reconnect. In fact, reconnecting should be a key part of your career relaunch strategy. Immediately start accepting projects—even if it's free work for friends or nonprofits. It will pay off in the end. Don't pass up any opportunity.
It's time to dust off your resume. First, fill in the gaps with all that good work-related stuff you've been doing during your break. Even if it was a volunteer project, list it just as you would any other work experience (though you don't necessarily need to use the word "volunteer").
Do some research to make sure your resume will get past the ATS. Many experts these days, for example, recommend ditching the "objective" portion at the top of the resume and instead replacing it with hard skills and keywords mentioned in the job description that you have developed in your career.
To find pertinent keywords, do a little research. Look at online job postings and see the types of words that employers are using in their posts, then use these words in your resume. Once your resume is keyword-optimized, you can then focus on customizing it for each job you're applying for, to give yourself a better chance of getting an interview.
First, reconnect with your former colleagues and professional friends. Meet for coffee. Talk shop. Let them know you're looking for work. Don't be shy about telling family members, friends, and acquaintances that you're looking for new opportunities. Most people get jobs through personal connections.
Then, widen your circle. Try to attend a business networking event every week. Even a remote networking event can open new doors. Much has been written about how people should approach networking, and a little research on the topic may be helpful. In general, remember that your goal for networking isn't instant gratification. Many experts will tell you not to expect (and never, never, never ask for) a job at a networking event. You're there to meet people and build relationships. Eventually, it will pay off.
To find networking opportunities, ask people you already know or search on the internet. A simple Google search (city + state + "networking opportunities") should turn up results. Also, try websites like Meetup and Eventbrite.
More and more job seekers are using social media websites for networking, and employers are using them to find out about job candidates. Use social media sites, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, to build your personal brand, make new connections, and further your relaunch efforts.
On LinkedIn, it's important to optimize your profile and make sure it matches your resume. Also, avoid making common LinkedIn headline mistakes. With a strong social media presence, you'll stand out to recruiters and hiring managers, and they'll see how proactive you are in trying to relaunch your career.
Look for opportunities, above and beyond attending networking events, to get involved. Start a blog related to your field. Check out existing blogs and online forums and comment on posts. Share your opinion. Offer advice. Establish yourself as an active member of the community. Host a networking event, or take on a volunteer position within a networking group. Take a class. These things will supercharge your networking efforts.
The more you're involved in your community and industry, the more others will view you as an expert in that field. Don't be afraid to start something new. Get out there, get involved, and make a name for yourself!
When looking at job opportunities, think outside of the box. Don't think of yourself in terms of past work experience alone. Assess your skills, and determine how they can be applied to different jobs. These are your transferable skills. They can be extremely helpful when trying to relaunch your career, especially if you're making a career change.
Know what you can do, and be ready to tell prospective employers how your skills can benefit them—even in a position you've never held before. Think about what jobs have the best potential for career happiness.
Sure, you're looking for full-time work. But as you relaunch your career, don't pass up part-time, contract, or freelance opportunities, as long as they move your relaunch efforts forward. (Part-time at the local mini-mart, for instance, wouldn't do much good.)
A contract position could lead to a job offer, and in the meantime, you're gaining new experience, building relationships, and adding to your resume.
Eventually, the day will come: A prospective employer will want to meet with you.
A job interview can be particularly daunting to someone who's been on a career break. The best remedy for a case of interview-related nerves is preparation.
Think about what questions will be asked, and how you will answer (remember tip number one?). Research the company online. Formulate some smart interview questions to ask in return. Have a friend help you practice with a mock interview. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will be.
The best advice for relaunching your career? Don't give up. You didn't get to where you were before your career break without hard work and perseverance. And it will take those qualities to get back to where you want to be.
If you want to relaunch your career, just know that you can and will. Half the battle is having the right mindset. The rest is all about strategy. Follow these 10 tips to successfully relaunch your career, no matter how long you've been out of the game.
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Navigating a successful job search can be tricky for job seekers over the age of 50 (and very often those over 40 too). Age discrimination is alive and well, and even though your resume got you to the interview, your “experience” might be a drawback.
Here are three interview questions you may be asked as an older job seeker with the best strategies for how to answer them.
This isn’t framed as a question, but it does demand a response—or you’ve lost the opportunity. You know they liked what they saw in your resume, but when they’re staring you in the face, they’re wondering if you’re really going to be a good fit. Will you be unhappy that you’re taking a job that’s "less than" what you’re capable of? Will you be bored? Will you fit in? Are you only marking time until retirement?
Help them see that you’re a good fit with an answer that addresses those underlying concerns:
“I may be overqualified, but I see that as a bonus for you. I am more than ready to do this job, and I understand what it takes to be successful in it. Aside from learning the specific way you do things at this organization, my actual task learning curve would be flat and I could produce results almost immediately.”
Pointing out what they stand to gain from this deal is always a good idea.
“I may be overqualified, but this particular position looks great to me because of X.”
"X" may be any number of reasons: you really like their product /service, you are excited about the work they’re doing, or even a more personal reason.
One gentleman I know told his interviewer, “My current job is over an hour away and I don’t want to move because I like where I live. The quality of life I’d get from eliminating that long commute would mean a lot to me.” It was a real reason and calmed their fears about hiring him.
This is not just a question of motivation, but also one about your energy and enthusiasm. You have several good options for answering it:
Working for someone who knows less than you do is not great—and if you truly are someone who’s been around the block, you’ve probably gained a lot of wisdom and judgment that a younger person just can’t have. However, to answer this question, the only really good answer sounds something like this:
“I have found that even if someone knows less than me in one area, they know more than me in another. I usually find that I can learn something useful from everyone, and I think it’s exciting to work with a wide range of people because of that.”
Keep all your answers focused on the positive, and they will go a long way toward supporting your candidacy.
The right recruiter can put you in front of dream job opportunities. This is especially the case for higher-level positions because there are employers who will not post a job opening publicly and instead will rely solely on recruiters to find the right talent.
The good recruiters are paid by employers (as much as 20-30% of the annual compensation for the position) to find the right people for the job, so when you work with one, understand that their loyalty is to the employer. They are not necessarily there to help you find a job unless you have what they need to fill the job opening.
In order to spark interest in recruiters, you have to show you meet most—if not all—of the qualification requirements for the job. Here are six things recruiters want to see on your LinkedIn profile.
Your headline on LinkedIn is essentially the descriptive line that comes with your profile (before people click on it). By default, it will list your name and current job title. Recruiters depend on this piece of information to decide whether or not to click on your profile.
What you can do: Tell the recruiter what you have to offer in a few words. A job title is okay, but it has to inform the recruiter of the specific industry you're in as well. For example, "Account Manager" doesn't say a lot, but "Healthcare PR Account Manager" says a lot more. You also want to optimize your LinkedIn headline with keywords so you can be found by recruiters when they search for potential job candidates with specific skill sets.
Your summary, located in the "About" section of your LinkedIn profile, needs to succinctly inform the reader of what you bring to the table. This is where your personal branding statement belongs.
What you can do: Include your personal branding statement, information on your specialty as a professional (how do you like to add value?), and list your core skills and accomplishments. Adding keywords and phrases that are relevant to the jobs you're looking for will also help increase the chances of your profile showing up in recruiters' search results.
Recruiters want to know you'll do the job and do it well. On your LinkedIn profile, detail what you've accomplished and how you've used skills to achieve success and results.
What you can do: Present measurable results. This means you need to quantify your work experience. Recruiters are also doing searches based on skills, so you want to include key skills for the jobs you've had in your profile and get them endorsed.
Recruiters look at your connections for a combination of quality and relevance. Quantity is less of a factor (but you do want to have at least 50 quality contacts) because if you have 500+ connections, but 95% of the contacts aren't related to the field or industry for the job, it doesn't offer much value.
What you can do: Begin to engage in conversation with relevant people in your network (in the profession and industry you want a job) by joining the same LinkedIn Groups and participating in discussions, commenting on their posts or articles, seeking the help of connections you both have in common to help with the introduction and sending a direct connection request offering a reason to connect.
Recommendations on LinkedIn are like doing a pre-check of your references. Recruiters want to see that you have other professionals in the field or industry vouching for your experiences, skills, and capabilities. The best recommendations to have are ones that come from your supervisor, clients, and senior colleagues.
What you can do: Depending on the type of relationship you have with one of your LinkedIn connections, ask if they wouldn't mind writing a recommendation on your LinkedIn profile. You can assist in the matter by reminding them of an experience that can serve as a focal point for the recommendation. Also, when you write a nice recommendation for others, they will usually reciprocate, or be willing to return the favor if asked.
A profile picture with your LinkedIn profile increases the chances it gets clicked on. It informs others that your profile is likely complete.
What you can do: Include a profile picture that allows the recruiter to envision you in the position you're applying for. You should look professional, yet approachable.
Get your LinkedIn profile in tip-top shape with these tips if you want to find the best job opportunities that only recruiters may have access to.
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Big interview mistakes are obvious—being late, dressing inappropriately, bad language, and so on. There are plenty of more subtle mistakes that can also keep you from getting the offer. Make sure you aren’t making any of these:
Related: 5 Questions You Should Be Asking In Your Job Interviews
Today, I have two BIG questions for you that could change the course of your career.
If I wanted to get a job interview within one week, here's what I would do as a 20-year career coaching veteran who has helped thousands of people get new, better-paying jobs.
The first thing I would do is find 10 jobs for which I am 100% qualified and a good fit. Not overqualified or underqualified—100% qualified. It would take me a little while to research jobs on various job boards that fit that criteria, but once I do, I would not apply on the job boards.
The second thing I would do is find the companies' career pages and make sure those jobs really exist because there are a lot of fake/bogus jobs on job boards. So go over to the actual careers page for each company you're thinking about applying to and make sure that the job posting is there and it's open and active.
Once I do that, I would apply directly on each company's career page, but only because when I get an interview, they're going to need my information in the system. So I'm not applying through the career pages thinking I'm getting job interviews from them. I'm applying because I'm preparing myself for when I actually get the interview.
When I apply for those 10 jobs, I would fill in every field in the job applications because I know that some of these applicant tracking systems (ATS) can make you less of a match for the job if you skip or don't fill in a field.
After I've applied through the career pages, I would move on to the real work that would help me stand out and get that job interview. I would write up a short connection story about why I think each company is amazing. And it's not because I think they have the greatest benefits or I heard they're a good place to work. I want to talk about what I nerd out on or what I care about as it relates to their business. How do I know that what they do, what they sell, is really fantastic? Where did I learn that in my own life?
This connection story is my secret sauce for when I reach out and connect with people at each company because when you tell a good connection story and you can tell someone who already works there why you think their company is so amazing and can give that custom reason why, you stand out. You are going that extra step and making yourself come alive to that person.
Once I've written a connection story for each company I'm applying to, I would research people who work at those companies, and not the recruiter or HR manager. I would try to find the hiring manager. I would try to find people who work in the department I'd be working in, who have job titles I want to have. Ideally, I would find five people at each company to connect with, and then I would send each person a custom connection request on LinkedIn. I would say something like, "Hey! Can we connect? I'd love to share a quick story about why your company's so amazing." Not every person will connect with me, but many will.
For those who do, I would then message them my connection story. Here's an example:
"Thank you! Here's the story of why I think your company is amazing. (Insert your connection story.) P.S. I'm so inspired by your company that I just applied for your XYZ job. I would be so grateful if you gave me your one best tip for standing out in the hiring process."
Notice I'm not asking them to introduce me to the hiring manager or put in a good word for me. I am asking them for their expertise—their one top tip for standing out. People love to give advice after you've just complimented the company sincerely. They can message you back the advice, but you know what else happens? They look at your LinkedIn profile, and sometimes they forward you to the hiring manager.
I help people every day inside Work It DAILY get interviews by back-channeling (the technique I shared above). It really works. You're going to get rejected through the online application, but by sharing your connection story on LinkedIn, you'll stand out to hiring managers no matter how much competition there is for the position you want.
Good luck, and go get 'em!
Today I am going to debunk a common misconception on effective resume writing: the resume magic that will solve your keyword problems for passing Applicant Tracking Systems (“ATS") once and for all.
Related: Does Your Resume Get Along With Your Personal Brand?
Recently, one of my clients forwarded to me about 15 job postings he was interested in. While this alone might already seem a bit lavish (I generally only request two to three job postings for my writing process), the client asked me to include “all the relevant keywords" from these job postings into his resume. Neither would I have been able to do this, nor did I feel like doing this. Why? Because it would not have served the purpose of my client: getting job interviews.
Time and again, I encounter job seekers that have good prior or current work experience, pretty sharp resumes, and a convincing cover letters, but still struggle to get interviews.
Related: Is Your Personal Brand Wrong?
In situations like this, I like to suggest having a closer look at their personal brand. Personal brand? What do I mean by this exactly, and might this “personal brand thingy" also apply to your situation? Personal branding is a complex subject, and in my opinion there is no one good definition that sums it up entirely. In my opinion, the bottom line and smallest denominator one can understand under the term personal branding is one's reputation and legitimacy. And that is exactly the part that does not add up for some job seekers.
“Public speaker, author and presenter."
A frequently discussed resume question between resume writers, recruiters, and applicants is the question of the influence of Applicant Tracking Systems (“ATS") on the appropriate length of a resume.
Resume: Why You Shouldn't Write A 'One-Size-Fits-All' Resume
Back in ancient history (anyone remember the 90s?), the vast majority of resumes were submitted on paper via snail mail and/or fax. Pre-screening of resumes those days was performed by a real human being that physically touched, handled, and actually “scanned" the documents with his/her eyes. That meant a lot of work for HR. Just imagine having to sift through 200 or 300 applications. The rule of thumb in those days for job hunters was thus to not “aggravate" or “bother" the pre-screening human being with overly long resumes that might have meant a quick toss to the “no" pile. As a consequence, job hunters were advised to limit their resumes to one or two pages.
The most precious piece of real estate in your entire resume is the top of the first page. At the cursory glance, this is the area that is going to get the most attention. And there are some things you can do to make that most of that – or get your resume tossed in the “not interested” pile.
Related: Boring Old Resume Objective Vs. Branding Statement
Here's a quick checklist of things NOT to do when crafting the opening statement of your resume:
One of the best ways to showcase your career brand in your resume is to include a power statement. Strong brand-driven statements abound on well-written resumes and can be found in your career summary, position descriptions, and your achievements, but the most visible power statement on a resume is your tagline.
It's a one-line encapsulation of your career ROI or a key achievement. Written with lean keyword-infused language a power statement showcases the impact your candidacy has had on your current or past employers or highlights critical attributes of your career brand. For example, here's a power statement that quickly hones in on the candidate's value:
Catalyzed $3B+ in Online Revenue while Generating 5X Shareholder Value in Industry-Leading Start-Up
KEY CREDENTIALS: Harvard MBA | MIT BS in IT | PMI PMP Certification
Transformation Leader Who Repairs Troubled Customer Care Operations + Fuels Next-Level Performance
Expert turnaround driver who improves customer experience, increases service delivery, and resolves client concerns. Demanding but fair people developer who excels at building teams that deliver the right level of service while scaling delivery based on business needs. Experienced in leading technology conversions that set the stage for key M&A, IPO, and rebranding initiatives.
Supported Acquisitions for Sunbelt and Markon Ranging Up to $650M in Value
CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE + LEADERSHIP STRENGTHS:
CASH FLOW MAXIMIZATION: Increased average speed of answer 18% and cut escalations 33%. Ensured consistently superior service during peak call periods through demand forecasting.
POST-ACQUISITION INTEGRATIONS: Consolidated the acquisitions of 12 franchises through on-time, on-budget project leadership of system conversions for TechSmith Systems.
EMPLOYEE RETENTION:Lower call center turnover from 34% to 6%, cultivating peak-performing teams.
If you are over 40, have a big skill set, and are struggling to get hired, you've come to the right place. I work with thousands of people who have big skill sets and can't get hired. What's going on? What can you do to stand out in the hiring process and land a job?
When you're networking and interviewing as a seasoned professional, you're probably giving employers the wrong impression because you're sitting there telling them all your skills, all the things you can do for them, and making it sound like you're a Jack or Jill of all trades. And while you think that's what they want to hear because you're thinking, "I'm the best bang for the buck," that's not what they're hearing. What they're hearing is that you're narcissistic. You're a know-it-all. You're going to be difficult to work with, and you're probably going to leave for more money anyway.
Employers don't want that headache.
Now, here's how you fix that...
@j.t.odonnell Replying to @luvmy2goldens over 40 job search tips! #over40 #over50 #careeradvice #jobsearch #interviewtips ♬ original sound - J.T. O'Donnell
1. Ask, don't tell.
You want to listen twice as much as you talk in your interviews. The way you do that is by asking great questions.
Examples:
You really want to get at their pain point and how the job supports them. But you're also sending a message, and that message is, "I get it. I'm the service provider. You're the customer, You're the leader. And I'm going to make sure that you're happy." That's the mindset they need to hear.
2. Make it clear that it's an equitable partnership.
By "equitable partnership" I mean you need to point out all the things they have to offer that you really want because you don't want them worrying that you might leave. You need to talk about the skills you'll be able to develop there, the knowledge you'll gain, and the opportunities you'll have that you won't have anywhere else. You need to hype them up and say, "You have so much to offer me here. This is the place I want to be. You are at the top of my bucket list. This is the place I want to spend years at." And you've got to make them see that as well.
Between asking great questions so you're not overselling yourself and also making employers realize that they're exactly what you want, that's how you're going to get the results that you're looking for. Those are my best tips for job seekers over 40. Give them a try.
BONUS TIP: Take my FREE career quizzes to discover your workplace personas and communication style, both of which will help you better understand what positions are right for you. Plus, when you sign up for Work It DAILY's newsletter, you'll get free career advice in your inbox every day.
Is a summary necessary on a resume? The short answer is: Absolutely not!
“No paragraph should ever lead your resume!" warns J.T. O'Donnell, LinkedIn Influencer and founder of Work It DAILY. “It does not get read." This is especially true if you plan to write an “objective" statement about yourself such as: “I'm a high-achieving top performer with outstanding and incredible skills…"
This is a huge no-no, according to J.T. “I get the same answers all the time from recruiters—they don't like [summary statements]," she says. “In fact, it's like double nails on a chalkboard to a recruiter to see [them]."
Studies show that you have six seconds to make an impression with your resume. According to J.T., recruiters will scan your resume in a Z-pattern (left to right across the top fold, down across the page, and over). In those six seconds, they have to decide if they're going to keep reading. So, what are they going to be drawn to on a resume?
“I cringe when I see people waste valuable space in the top fold of their resume with this big, long summary paragraph," says J.T. “Do not do it!"
Instead of struggling to write your resume, learn how to properly format it for success. This includes changing your top fold from a summary or objective statement to an experience summary, which is a list of 6-8 hard or transferable skills needed for the specific job you're applying for. Also, don't forget to quantify your work experience so your resume stands out from the competition!
If you want to learn more about how to do this, we can help.
In a crowded labor market, how can you make your candidacy stand out? In short, by being yourself. The more you can make your resume uniquely reflective of your talents, gifts, and experiences, the more it will reflect “Brand You.” Here are 10 ways you can reinforce your brand on your resume:
Recruited to turn around the performance of a sales team ranked 24 of 24 nationally. Fueled dramatic rises in sales, account retention, market penetration, new client acquisition, while rebuilding team from the ground up.
The year was 2009. I was an overly confident (and incredibly ignorant) young man… And I was on a mission to kickstart my career and make a lot of money.
Related: How 20 Seconds Of Insane Courage Got Me My Dream Job
The results of my quest are both hilarious and embarrassing... And while I learned an incredibly valuable lesson from this experience, I nonetheless wasted an entire year of my life. I was burned out, had used up all my savings, was living with my parents, AND was completely miserable. So, what happened? And how can you avoid an equally horrific fate?
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by a CAREEREALISM-approved expert.
What really makes a great resume for today's job market? The use of a branding statement, a tag line or two, relevant keywords/key phrases, and a situation/action/results writing style can actually increase the return of your resume.
Related: The Worst Resume Advice I’ve EVER Heard
Let's review why each are increasingly important for job seekers competing in today's highly competitive job market. Including these can take your resume from good to great, and ultimately help you get the job you deserve.
Personal branding is hot - very hot! Once paralleled with top business professionals such as Bill Gates, Donald Trump, and let's not forget Oprah, personal branding strategies are now applied to job seekers. Branding is not made up of one thing, but of many. According to Wikipedia.org, personal branding "is not limited to the body, clothing, appearance and knowledge contained within, leading to an indelible impression that is uniquely distinguishable."
Can branding techniques be used for job search purposes? Absolutely. Start by using a branding statement within your resume. Typically a one or two-liner, a branding statement could be an umbrella statement relative to the broadness and depth of you.
To develop a branding statement, take your 15-second elevator pitch and rework it to include key points relevant to talent recruiters. For those who don't have an elevator pitch, write a short paragraph (4-5 sentences) about your professional career and value. Then, boil the paragraph down to a couple of sentences. Lastly, fine-tune the statement until it contains the exact wording that helps sell you to the hiring community.
If a branding statement was a book title, a tagline would be the subtitle.
Tag lines are terrific, enabling those who review your resume to immediately see your value... all from a mere skim. Oh sure, resume management systems are certainly ruling the roost when it comes to resumes these days, but real people are actually out there reviewing soft and hard copy resumes, so definitely write your resume for those pesky RMS systems, and don't forget about the human beings, too.
Taking a variety of forms, tag lines can be a group of keywords or a sentence fragment. The first example tagline below (Award-Winning Designs - Community Project Lead - Travel Internationally) was perfect for this client. She was targeting a high-end, executive role for a major community development company with project interests on a national and international level. Certainly, we could have included this information within the intro statement, or elsewhere, but a more strategic placement adds visual interest and introduces a bit more white space to attract readers' eyes.My favorite use of tag lines is to include a quick "content snapshot" where you would otherwise see blank space. For example, readers would learn this individual is a turnaround expert by simply reading the resume; but honestly, who reads an entire resume these days?Taglines are another way for readers to quickly learn more about you and what you have to offer, putting you one step closer to being called for an interview.
Want to know an insider's secret to identifying ideal keywords and key phrases for your resume? Print those ideal job ads and get out a highlighter. Highlight job tasks, concentrating on nouns/actions. Then, cross-reference the highlighted keywords against your resume. Is there an important keyword (skill) missing from the resume? Does the resume need a bit more tweaking to accommodate more relevant keywords and key phrases? Sometimes a job description is filled with poppy-cosh, and by focusing primarily on those specific skills (keywords), you're somewhat getting rid of the "content fat," enabling you to see what's ultimately important to the hiring company.
A SAR writing style introduces achievements into a resume, adding numbers and percentages to add visual breaks in text for readers' eyes... it's that simple. Hiring managers and recruiters love achievements within a resume because each represents an action and result on the part of the candidate.
Introduce more achievements into your resume by focusing on your specific job area, department, or the company as a whole. Think about situations you faced during your tenure, how you responded, and the results from each action. Did you increase sales? Save the company money? Cut dependency on a specific resource? If you weren't in a lead/management role, maybe you assisted a team with achieving a sales goal or securing that million-dollar client.
Some actions seem small, but in the end, may have resulted in a big impact. For example:
Provided extensive team support during the development and integration of a new incentive program offered to the SE sales team; program added $3.2 million in new sales and was later introduced to other US-based territories.
Have you ever been asked, "How do you rate yourself?" in a job interview? The qualifier could be "as a professional," "as an employee," or maybe as the holder of a certain skill set. In most cases, they want you to give them an answer between 1 and 10 in order to get some concrete idea of where you and your skills are.
This is a tough question to answer. You will find advice that you should always rank yourself as a 10, or even higher. They say that anything less makes it look like you don’t have confidence in yourself or that you’re admitting a weakness.
In my opinion, automatically rating yourself at a 10 makes you seem a little conceited (at best). It sounds like a false answer, just like "I’m such a perfectionist" does to the "What’s your greatest weakness?" question.
At the same time, answering "5" may keep them from offering you the job.
Here’s how you should really answer, "How do you rate yourself?" in a sincere, job-winning way:
The best answer for someone with experience is a 7 or an 8. You’d elaborate on that by saying something along the lines of you see yourself as someone who’s learned a lot and is valuable at this point in your career, but you also realize that you can learn more from this organization—and then say what that is. This is reasonable, positive, and appealing.
If you’re just out of school or have very little experience, you should answer a little lower, at maybe a 6 or a 7. Again, elaborate on your answer. You see yourself as better than average (5) but with room to grow. You’re excited about what you can learn from this company and how you can contribute to it.
Is it ever okay to rate yourself at a 9 or a 10? Yes, but only if you’re a true subject matter expert with extensive experience. In most cases, we all have room to learn and improve.
Your interviewer will be surprised that you don’t automatically tell them "10" (or in some cases "11"). So make sure you explain your thought process. Say something like, "On a scale of 1 to 10, a 5 would be a true average, and a 10 is perfect. I think I’m better than average, and no one is perfect."
Continue the conversation in a positive vein by pointing out what you’ve learned that makes you valuable, qualities that make you a great fit for the job, and why you’re excited to continue your career at this company.
We all put a lot of thought and effort into how to answer questions about times we failed so that we don’t look bad in the interview, but how much thought do we put into choosing stories to answer softball questions like, “Tell me about a time you went above and beyond the call of duty?”
Even though this is a positive question, it’s very important to carefully choose a good story to answer it well. You should always have a story or two to tell about times you went above and beyond at work. It points out that not only did you meet the expectations of your employer, you exceeded them. That shows you as extremely valuable to a future employer.
The key to keep in mind when choosing a story to tell is to choose one that speaks to how you could and would be successful in this new role. Think about the job description for this new role. Your first choice of story should be one that describes how you went above and beyond in relation to a central task in the description. This should talk about a conflict or a difficult situation related to your job that you overcame. If you don’t have a story like this, then a story that highlights a positive character trait can also be good, although there should still be a conflict and a resolution.
Whatever story you choose, you've probably heard you should tell it using the STAR method: (S)ituation or (T)ask; (A)ction you took; (R)esult you got. So it sounds like, “I faced this situation, and we needed that done. Based on (specific factors), I decided to do (specific actions), and the results were (whatever they were).”
However, a more effective way to answer behavioral interview questions like, "Tell me about a time you went above and beyond the call of duty?" is by using the "Experience + Learn = Grow" format. Employers nowadays can spot the STAR method a mile away, and your answer will come off as more genuine by using the "Experience + Learn = Grow" format instead.
An alternative way to answer this question is to bring out your brag book for a little show-and-tell time. Brag books are wonderful visual aids for your job interview. They help you communicate more clearly and more powerfully about who you are and what you can do.
Evidence can do great things for the impression you make with your answer. So, along with your story, show the note from your happy client or boss; the graph that shows how the production numbers went up after your action; or the award you received from your action.
As a kid, I remember thinking teachers had great jobs because they got to take summers off. I didn't quite grasp the challenges of the position nor did I understand that, unlike their students, teachers do not spend the summer at sleep-away camp or catching up on video games.
I still think that teachers have great jobs, although for entirely different reasons. They get to play a meaningful role in the lives of their students, they solve new problems every day, and they are constantly challenged and constantly learning.
Spending your summer teaching abroad can be a wonderful change of pace from the U.S. education system. These jobs also give you the opportunity to travel and experience a foreign culture with new students.
Abbey Road is one great organization that offers abroad summer teaching jobs. Qualifications include experience working with teenagers, experience of work, study, or travel in your destination country, fluency in the local language, passion and professionalism, and a college degree. Responsibilities include teaching classes, supervising students, and being on-call up to six days a week.
Compensation includes airfare, room and board, and a weekly allowance for incidental expenses.
Working at a summer camp involves many of the same skills and responsibilities as teaching but in a more laid-back and enjoyable environment. As a teacher, you should qualify for more than just a position as a counselor, so look for a job that involves some administrative or supervisory responsibilities to earn a higher wage.
Qualifications generally include prior experience working with youth, as well as evidence of competency in any additional area of responsibility (e.g., administrative, teaching subject). You should expect to supervise campers, lead group activities and be on-call at night.
Pay generally ranges from $175 to $400 weekly, with provided room and board.
By taking advantage of your contacts with colleagues, students, and parents, you should have no trouble finding tutoring opportunities if you want them.
In addition to tutoring students in the subjects you teach, it may be worth considering tutoring in other areas. If you scored well on a graduate school admissions test when applying for your Master of Education, for example, you might be able to earn $50 to $100 an hour tutoring graduate school applicants.
Of course, you always have the option of taking a summer position in the education field. Summer school jobs are usually comparable to your school-year job, but the shorter hours will allow you some time to enjoy the spoils of summer.
It also gives you the opportunity to engage students and reignite their interest in learning by teaching the students at their own pace, which can be incredibly rewarding.
English teachers have more than adequate writing abilities for many freelance jobs. Many STEM teachers will have the necessary skills for work in web design, computer science, or online education fields. Working from home and making your own hours may also feel like a treat after nine months of rising early to commute to a crowded classroom!
It is hard to generalize about freelance work because you will likely end up working for multiple employers and negotiating your own deadlines and wages. A good bottom line for negotiating is not to accept any job that would pay less than you make as a teacher for the same time commitment.
The Institute of Reading Development provides literacy programs that seek to instill a lifelong love of reading in students. Unlike most literacy programs, the institute not only provides classes for children but also trains parents on how to nurture and support their children's literacy development.
Responsibilities include preparing lesson plans, teaching children and parents, reporting student data, and more. Qualifications include a love of reading, leadership, warmth, professionalism, intelligence, and communication skills.
Compensation ranges from $500 to $700 a week.
Tired of working in a classroom? Get a job working to conserve the environment by building mountain bike trails, building bridges, and/or leading a crew of youth environmental conservationists!
You must be positive, articulate, hard-working, comfortable getting your hands dirty, and physically fit. Responsibilities include supervising youth, construction, and, in some cases, being on call at night.
Pay ranges from $260 to $575 a week
However you end up spending your summer, you should aim for a position that will give you a break from the particular stresses of the school year. As much as any teacher loves his or her job, the work can sometimes feel exhausting. A summer job should be a position that offers challenges and rewards of its own so that you can return to teaching refreshed and invigorated.
Need help finding a summer job?
This article was written by Senior Social Media Outreach Coordinator Sarah Fudin on behalf of Work-It-DAILY-approved Partner, 2U—an education-technology company that partners with institutions of higher education such as USC to deliver their Online Masters in Education and MSW programs.
Imagine getting your post-secondary degree and being presented with a multitude of job offers… within the next week!
Related: 4 C’s To Career Success
You’re overwhelmed and excited at the same time; the world is your oyster! There’s no trace of fear, no worrying about paying your loans or making your way in the world. You have guaranteed your success in life, and you’re going to be great. Doesn’t that sound nice? Well, years ago when people with college degrees were the BIG fish in a small pond, that may have been a graduating student’s reality. But for those of us in the first stage of our career TODAY, we know this is just a dream. Because today, having a college degree is the norm. It’s the new standard for entry-level jobs, and (if you’re lucky) you’ll be able to pay all your bills each month with your first job out of college. Nowadays, things are different. There’s more competition than ever, and the best companies out there can take their pick from an ocean full of qualified, normal sized fish.
“Do not stop thinking of life as an adventure. You have no security unless you live bravely, excitingly, imaginatively”(Eleanor Roosevelt)
No matter what you do in life, as long as you lead with a positive mindset and energy you will attract career success. It all begins between our ears!
Being a successful sales professional is one of the most demanding, and rewarding of all careers. Before you pick up a phone, walk into a customer’s office or interact at all with the public, make sure to get your head on straight. Be ready to put your best impression forward. Remember there is only one chance for a first impression, so make it a bold, authentic one! That first impression could be your last or just the beginning of what you hope will be a mutually beneficial, long-term relationship.
Having the right mindset each and every day is absolutely one of the most important commitments you make to yourself. It is all about getting focused, grounded and poised to face whatever the day has in store for you and learning to be armed for the uncertainty and the unexpected. Each one of us needs to build this into our everyday lives, in our own personal way.
Here are five things you can do to nurture your positive energy, help you get focused, disciplined and set up your daily mindset.
1. Set aside quiet time to be focused and organized. Just 30 minutes early in the day can fuel your mind and spirit with motivation. It can have a huge impact on the rest of the day.Rotate motivational or inspirational content around so it is fresh and has a more profound impact on you every day. Seek out books, websites, newsletters, inspiring people and other media from alternative sources.
2. Keep things in perspective. Focus on your goals and initiatives. Seek out alternative sources for news and information. There are so many examples of people or businesses finding positive opportunities in challenging times and representing the solution, not the problem.
3. Manage your time, tasks and interruptions. Practice time blocking. Build your daily and weekly schedule in advance. Assign periods for your activities. Stay on schedule to accomplish what you need to do through your day. Be flexible. When things change, go with the flow.
4. Stay in touch regularly with those that are important to you and always make you feel valued and special. Pick up the phone; call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a long time. Dash off a quick e-mail or note to someone and let them know you are thinking of them. Keeping your "positive people" active daily can be powerful for your future success and your positive well-being. Don’t isolate, congregate.
5. Have fun, practice laughter and develop your sense of humor. Enjoy your workspace and co-workers. Plan a family day. Take the dog to the dog park. Organize a game night with friends.
What are some of the things you do to set up your mindset daily?
Trading your job as a lawyer for one in marketing? It may sound crazy, but given the current economy, you may need to apply for positions that are outside of your range of experience. But how do you secure gainful employment in this way? Below are five tips on applying for a job outside your usual field - who knows, maybe you will find your true calling in the process!
1. Round up your skills.
Future Force Personnel Services, a staffing firm, recommends that you start by taking inventory of your past experiences, strengths and skills. Do not just glance at your past job titles and decide that they are not relevant.
Really comb through your previous duties to come up with a list of transferable skills. These can include responsibilities like training new staff, giving presentations, multitasking and organizing events. Write down all of the computer programs and technology with which you are familiar. Use your experiences with community groups, college clubs and travel to tout your interpersonal skills.
2. Start at the bottom and work your way up.
This is also known as swallowing your pride. Even if you were at the top of your last field, do not assume that you will immediately take on a leadership role. Remember, this is a new field in which you lack experience. Your willingness to start at a lower position will also show that you are cooperative and eager to learn more.
3. Sell yourself in your cover letter.
This is your big opportunity to share things that are not covered in your resume. Make it unique, showcasing your skills and traits that will make you the best candidate for the job. Make sure you know about the company to which you are applying, so that you can reference its mission and goals. Quintessential Careers, a career development website, offers a wealth of resources to help you write a cover letter that will get you noticed.
4. Tailor your resume.
Even if you have a polished resume, you will need to do some revising. Go through your past job experiences and rewrite the descriptions so that they better match the skills and accomplishments that the new companies are looking for. If you were a nurse and are applying to work in a bank, you should focus on your documentation, organizational and interpersonal skills. Make your past experiences work for the new position. Quintessential Careers also offers resume advice and samples.
5. Prepare for your interview.
Research your prospective company well in advance of your interview. Find out what the job entails and learn as much as you can about the position so that you are not caught off guard. Google the occupation, as well as common interview questions, so that you can mentally prepare your responses. Be ready to fall back on your strengths and experiences, and give specific examples in answering questions whenever possible. You may be well on your way to the job of your dreams -- or at least some quality interim experience!
This article was written by Melissa Woodson on behalf of CAREEREALISM-Approved Partner, 2tor – an education-technology company that partners with Washington University in St. Louis to offer a premier LLM degree.
In most cases, people don't realize their job is in jeopardy or that it's time to move on to something else. However, I understand that changing jobs can be scary, especially in the current economy. But at times, it's necessary because you can be happy and fulfilled one day, then laid off and depressed the next.
Nothing can be worse than holding on to a job that will give you a headache in the end. Here are three signs you should look for a new job.
The main reason why you seek employment is to get paid to be able to pay your bills and meet other basic needs. Moreover, you deserve to be rewarded for the work you do.
If you're underpaid, it will be hard for you to put extra effort to really excel. This is because, to most people, pay is the best motivator. If you're not motivated, you may fail to perform as required and you may end up being fired. Therefore, if you're not being paid or you're paid significantly less than you deserve, this can be a good reason for you to look for a better job that meets your needs.
You can talk to your boss about a raise first, but if they don't recognize the value of your skills, then it's about time you look for a new job.
When you do spectacular work on a given project, but no one appreciates or recognizes your effort, it's terribly discouraging. A good company should give you a pat on the back for a job well done.
Recognition is a very effective non-monetary motivator, but if no one recognizes your efforts, it's like being in a relationship that has no affection. If your boss refuses to acknowledge or commend your accomplishments, you're less likely to be promoted or given any opportunity to advance in your career. There are no signs of future growth—more reason for you to look for employment elsewhere.
There are companies out there that can value your contribution. Don't close your eyes and continue working for such an organization. Start looking for a new job.
If your company is losing money, its future (and yours) looks grim. It would probably be wise for you to open your eyes wider for new job opportunities. It doesn't matter how important or fulfilling your job is because the company may not be able to keep you in that position. You may find yourself jobless whether you like it or not.
In such a situation, the future is not guaranteed and you should play it safe. It's better for you to be proactive and start looking for a new job at the first sign of trouble in your beloved company.
Whatever the case may be, if you see such signs and feel it's about time you secure a job elsewhere, don't be discouraged by stories about the tough job market. Just dust off your resume and put together several applications to test the water. This may be the start of a new chapter in your life.
Your daily sanity and comfort at work depends on you. Start looking for a new job and don't ignore the signs!
Is your resume generating offers to interview? If not, it’s time to make some changes. The number one resume improvement any job seeker in any field can make is simple.
Quantification means to describe your accomplishments in terms of numbers, dollars, and percentages. For instance…
Numbers are attention-grabbing, hard evidence of your success. They make hiring managers (your future boss) sit up and take notice of your resume. Hiring managers see resumes all the time that talk about job responsibilities and accomplishments. Seeing the numbers helps them put it into perspective and see you as more valuable.
Quantification boosts your chances of getting called in to interview. Almost anything can be quantified. One person tried to trip me up once by asking if even a janitor could quantify, but the answer is absolutely "yes." They could talk about how cleaning things up reduced workplace accidents or contributed to a company culture that was able to achieve 95% retention.
All jobs contribute to the bottom line of a company in some way. If they didn’t, the company couldn’t justify keeping someone in that role and paying them. All you need to do is think about how you in your job contributed to those goals. Show that potential new boss how you can benefit their company.
When you look at your resume with a goal of quantification, ask yourself these kinds of questions:
You may not have complete records of everything you’ve accomplished. My best advice is to guesstimate. Don’t exaggerate; you need to be able to back up your numbers with some kind of evidence and stories that support them, and they need not be contradicted by your references.
Anything you can do to begin quantifying your accomplishments will help you stand out from other applicants and get you the interview. On top of that, it will set you up to appear more valuable to the hiring manager when they do interview you. That gives you a leg up in the interview and in later salary negotiations. It’s all good.
Quitting. It's a huge decision. It's also something all of us have considered at least once. Are you thinking about quitting your job? Before you make any rash decisions, you need to ask yourself a few very important questions.
The last thing you want to do is regret a major life move like quitting your job.
So, here are five things you should consider before quitting your job.
What the heck is the two-year rule, and why does it matter? Well, typically, it takes a few months to train and get comfortable in a position. However, most people aren't just automatically great at their jobs. They need to take some time to hone their new skills and provide value to the company before they can market those new skills toward another job.
Developing new skills or building on current ones usually happens sometime during your first or second year at a job. Spending less than two years at a job could hurt your career and give employers the impression that you're a job hopper. But if the situation is dire, staying could be worse.
It's important to ask the following questions to better determine if quitting your job is the right career move for you.
Have you built up enough experience so you can effectively market yourself for another role? You may need to stay a little longer so you can build that credibility and hone those skills. That way, you'll have a better shot of getting that job you really want.
On your resume, the best way to get a hiring manager's attention (and get your resume past the ATS) is to quantify your skills and accomplishments. So, ask yourself, "Can I quantify my work experience on my resume? Or have I not accomplished enough in my current role?"
If not, it's probably best for you to stay a bit longer at your job before quitting. Finish up that big project, or try to get as much experience as you can before the quarter ends.
Are you feeling like things are getting a little out of control? Are you just burned out? If that's the case, you want to try to "reclaim" the job, as J.T. O'Donnell, founder and CEO of Work It DAILY, says. Look for assistance, tools, and resources so you can take more control over your job and tasks.
If being "overworked" is part of the workplace culture at your job, then it could be time to quit, especially if it's negatively affecting your mental health and you've tried to make changes but you still feel burned out at work. Just make sure you ask about workplace culture in your future job interviews so you don't accept a job offer at another company with the same overworking atmosphere.
"Sometimes, we get bored," says O'Donnell. "We know the job like the back of our hand, it's easy, and we're looking for more of a challenge. So, you should be stepping up to the plate and asking for those responsibilities." Instead of quitting your job, it might be a good time to leverage the skills you've learned.
Before asking for a promotion, try asking your manager if there's anything you can take off their plate. Not only will this show initiative and make it easier for you to ask for a raise or promotion in the future, but it could help protect you from getting laid off.
If your company is laying off employees, your manager might be more likely to vouch for you to the higher-ups because if you're gone, your manager will have to go back to doing everything you took off their plate (and they don't want that).
Are you blaming work when it's really something going on in other areas of your life? Things like relationship issues or other challenges can cause extra stress. If you're blaming your job for that extra stress, quitting is probably not your best option because that stress is just going to carry over to the next job.
It's better to resolve the issues that are happening outside of work before you leave your job—if you decide that's still the right career move.
"If you choose to quit a job, don't do it without having another job lined up first," says O'Donnell.
According to O'Donnell, the average job search takes about nine months. That's a long time to be without work. And if you're looking for a management or executive position, it could take much longer.
Think it through and make smart choices. If it's time to quit, you know what to do!
After asking yourself these five questions, you should have a good idea of whether you should quit your job or stay put. Once you quit your job, there's no going back. Make sure you think long and hard about the decision and be strategic about your exit. Your career will thank you!
Picture this: Someone hands you a resume without saying anything, and a few seconds later, someone else hands you a resume, saying, “This person seems like just what we’re looking for and he is really interested in the job!” Which resume do you think you will favor? Naturally, you will favor the one with the great introduction. This is part of what a great cover letter does for you in your job search.
Related: 3 Tips For Writing A Successful Cover Letter
The entire goal of a cover letter is to get the employer to read your resume. Knowing that, it only makes sense to set your goal just a little higher to make them not only read your resume, but be excited to read it. A good cover letter will set a positive bias for you, boosting both your resume and your chances of getting the interview.
A great cover letter is worth the time and effort it takes to write it. Employers do read cover letters, and they do accept or reject candidates based on what they see. The cover letter is where the employer will get their very first impression of you as a candidate for the job.
Related: How To Write A Cover Letter That Will Get You Hired