The Flap - Blackbird Learning Associates

Interviewing Question: Why You?

2012-01-21T08:54:00.002-05:00

Interviewers ask all types of questions; some that make sense and others that may leave you scratching your head. In the past we’ve talked about some of the more common ones such as “Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses” or “Tell me about yourself”. I wrote about some of the ways that you can respond to these questions here.

Another question that you may be asked is “Why are you the right person for this job?” or “Why should I select you?” With this question, the interviewer wants to know if you are the right fit for the position and the organization and it is the time to sell yourself. Preparing for this question by reviewing the job posting and researching the company website and other publications will allow you to understand the company’s needs and direction. Make sure that you click the tabs in the website that will allow you to read about the company mission, history and philosophy about employee growth. In addition, during the interview you will learn more about the organization’s specific needs and the job requirements. Your goal in answering this question is to align your past accomplishments with their key needs and general values.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2012-01-15T20:28:00.009-05:00

Our local newspaper wrote an opinion piece about Martin Luther King, Jr. today. In it, the author wondered that if Dr. King had been alive today, what he would think of the progress made in civil rights. I think that he would be dismayed at not only the depressing statistics that still surround the black American community but at the lack of progress we as human beings have made as a whole.

I know that I can be naive and idealistic but I still wince at a segment of the population who through their words, language and general sense of entitlement feel that they can spout hurtful commentary about others. The problem is that now instead of hiding behind white robes, they hide behind their computer keyboards.

I do a great deal of research in my business and in doing so, read many on-line articles. I wish I didn’t but I often read the comments that follow the articles. Many of the comments are rude, bigoted, and paint a picture of a crude, dense section of humanity. I am thinking (hoping) that this is just a small portion of society that happens to have nothing better to do than respond to articles on the economy, our government, gay rights, movie actors, job search, murders…you name it. The comments tear apart race, appearance, language, religion, and are mean spirited and scary. Scary in that there are actually people who feel as if it is their Constitutional right to shout their steaming viciousness to the world.

The author of the opinion piece in the paper today said that if Martin Luther King were here today he would “urge us to confront these interconnections, and to recommit to social movements that change structures of power themselves so that justice, and not simply a “tolerant” attitude, is restored as our collective goal.” Well, I’m confronting it. As Dr. King said, “The time is right to do the right thing.”

Football and the Older Job Seeker

2012-01-15T13:57:00.003-05:00

The TV happened to be tuned to the pre-game show of the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston game today. I was half listening as CBS commentator and Hall of Famer Michael Irvin interviewed Ray Lewis, a Linebacker with Baltimore. Ray is young at 36 but in football lives, he is starting to get the snide comments that he should hang up his shoulder pads. I started to listen as Ray was talking about proving himself as an older athlete. He said that he does a couple of things to dismiss the “older” stigma.

a. He tries to stay healthy with a good diet. From what I’ve read, he hasn’t touched junk food in years. A fish and veggie eater, his occasional treats are Gummy Bears and red Twizzlers.
b. He practices and focuses. Ray Lewis has kept a notebook of his practice and exercise routine for years and he sets goals to maintain his physical activity, strength and stamina.
c. He thinks positively. In an interview with CBS Sports’ Mike Freeman he said, “If people think I'm slow let me say this, “Sideline to sideline there still isn't a 'backer in this business that can beat me. Sideline to sideline. Not one. I challenge you to find one."

The same three steps can apply to the older job seeker. While we all know that it is important to maintain our health and energy with diet and exercise, Ray’s take on positive thinking and practicing his skills (as well as learning new skills) is what stuck with me. Anyone in the job market needs to make sure that they stay up to date with the current skills relevant to their positions. If this means taking classes, practicing, discussing, networking and especially learning new skills, then so be it. This is especially important to burst the stereotype of the older job seeker.

Ray Lewis recently said, “I don't know when it will all be over for me. People want to use my age against me. They say I'm too old. People fear getting old. I don't fear that because now I have wisdom and a tough body to go with that wisdom." Nice words for all job seekers.

Two Resume Power Boosters

2012-01-14T14:13:00.005-05:00

One of the questions I often get is “how do I make my resume stand out from all of the others?” Great question especially since you are competing with possibly hundreds of other people who also want to do the same thing. Here are two steps that will improve your chances:

1. If posting on-line, align your resume to the key words on the job description. If giving your resume to a networking contact, review the wording of a similar position from the company website. Their key words = your key words.

2. Support your key words with specific accomplishments that showcase your talents.
a. When creating your resume wording ask yourself some basic journalism questions; who, when, what, where, how. While all these questions may not be needed for every resume statement, they will help you with your sentence structure and you’ll begin to see your strengths and accomplishments.
b. Ask yourself, “So what?” This is the key question to clarify your thoughts and identify your accomplishments. It should be asked for each of your resume statements. Did you save time or money? Did you bring in more clients, produce revenue, design a new system, or launch a new product? Write down the “so what” and make sure that it is showcased in each resume phrase.

These two steps will help differentiate your resume from the rest. This careful planning and ensuring that your accomplishments are in the forefront will not only help you craft your resume but also help you nail the interview.

Happy Birthday to Us

2012-01-09T15:01:00.004-05:00

Today Blackbird Learning Associates turned three years old. Just like a toddler, I am learning something new every day and in that same vein, making small steps to get my job search messages out. This whole, “running a business thing” has been an incredible journey for me and I want to thank all of you who follow this blog, Facebook or Twitter groups. At the beginning of every training session, I am humbled that you showed up on those freezing winter nights or scorching summer days. When you’ve called or emailed me you’re your thanks or to ask for help, I continue to count my blessings.
In the last year alone we have moved into Twitter, contributed to a number of job search articles, presented many classes all over the state, written resumes and provided job search coaching for hundreds of wonderful people. I mean that word “wonderful” as everyone I have met, trained and worked with had unique needs and motivations. One thing you discovered throughout every class or meeting is that you are a combination of the most astounding skills and strengths.
So thanks for your continued support and keep the faith. If you are aware of anyone needing job search help, please send them my way.

Step 1 - Set Goals

2012-01-02T10:41:00.008-05:00

I don’t know about you but I’ve found that the older I get the more I need to write things down. If I don’t do this I find that my thoughts and activities are scattered. Every January when I worked in corporate America, I got used to writing formal annual goal statements. It was part of the culture and while I (and everyone else) was never in the mood to do it, we put aside the time to design a specific road map for the year ahead. I even taught a class about it.

Even now when no one is looking over my shoulder, I actually look forward to getting my 2012 goals down on paper and starting the year with a fresh direction. It’s not too difficult if you make your goals SMART. SMART is the acronym for specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely. Let's say that I want to clean out my hall closet; instead of saying that, I would make a SMART goal by writing:

Clean out and organize the hall coat closet by January 31, 2012. This includes:
1. Sort coats, gloves/mittens and hats by size by Friday January 1, 2012
2. Organize coats, gloves/mittens and hats to donate or throw away by January 17, 2012.
3. Donate usable coats, mittens or hats to church by January 20, 2012. Toss remaining items into receptacle in the Pep Boys parking lot on the same day.
4. Clean, sweep and paint closet by January 25, 2012.

Setting goals for your job search is important in that it will help you visualize your future, clarify your steps, and focus on dates. Within this context, your goals should be written in specific terms, they should have precise time frames, and they should be measurable. A specific goal tells you exactly what you want to accomplish. It's helpful to break each broad goal statement into manageable smaller statements. This step not only keeps you on track, but it allows you to feel a sense of accomplishment when each step is achieved. A time oriented goal statement should include specific target dates and the approximate time you will need to complete each of the steps. Here’s a sample that breaks down the steps needed to write a resume.

Prepare final version of resume by January 25, 2012.

1. Identify areas of expertise by January 9, 2012.
2. Choose resume template by January 10, 2012.
3. Identify job specific key words by January 10, 2012.
4. Create career history using key words by January 10, 2012.
5. Create summary statement using key words/phrases by January 11, 2012.
6. Type first draft using selected template by January 11, 2012.
7. Review and get objective feedback from contact A, B and C by January 20, 2012.
8. Type final version by January 23, 2012.

This example is for one step of the job search process - writing the resume. You might want to go through the same steps for career assessment, networking or planning for your interview.

If you have any questions on using goal setting for your job search, please let me know. Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T22:13:00.000-05:00

Job Search for the Displaced Manufacturing Employee

2011-12-28T12:28:00.003-05:00

Last week I presented 24 hours of job search training to a number of displaced manufacturing employees. Their company plant was closing after 57 years in the same location in the community. While we were tucked in a tiny conference room, outside in the plant, teams of people in hard hats were pulling out the equipment meant to go back to the home office and destroying other, obsolete pieces. The smoke was in the air and our eyes were tearing as we plowed through the material. It was an odd scenario for me and judging by the heavy hearts in the room, it was painful for the group.

After ending that training on Thursday, I rushed back into the holiday mode; I still had shopping to do and baking to finish. Christmas came and went and through it all those 39 men and one woman remained with me. I thought about the uncertainty that they must have carried throughout the holiday.

Manufacturing is one of those industries that have become obsolete. A statistic from the Occupational Outlook handbook said that between now and 2018, manufacturing positions will decline 13%. It also said that as workers adapt to team-oriented production methods, those who can operate multiple machines will have the best opportunities for advancement and for gaining jobs with more long-term potential. In other words - the odds aren’t very good unless you sharpen your skill set. Gone are the days when someone with a limited education or a specialized skill can make a decent living running a machine or making a part.

Of the 40 people, I sensed that only a handful was seriously considering other career options. Maybe it was denial or anger or maybe it hadn’t hit them on the side of the head yet. It will though. I urged them to do the following:

1. Set up a game plan with goals and dates.
2. Assess their career values, motives, skills and transferable job skills.
3. Take advantage of the free career assessments offered.
4. Find and use grants or low cost training/retaining.
5. Network with one another and with other networking groups (such as the Professional Service Group via the Unemployment Office).

To quote Henry Ford, "It has been my observation that most people get ahead during the time that others waste." There is no time to waste; at least not in manufacturing.

Thank You for Following The Flap

2011-12-23T20:00:00.000-05:00

Job Search and Stress

2011-12-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Next week I will be giving job search training to forty manufacturing employees in central NJ who are losing their jobs in early January. Most of these employees are over the age of forty and have spent their careers with this company. Not only are they starting the New Year by joining the unemployment line but on top of that they are going to be attending training in the days before the holidays. I am getting prepared for the inevitable anger and grief that are going to greet me on Monday morning but since I have been in their shoes, I am hoping to help them get through this very difficult time.

In her book, On Death and Dying, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross shares the five stages of grief and loss. While these stages were designed to explain the process that one goes through when facing death and dying, the same stages can be used for a number of other areas including divorce, financial problems and the loss of a job. The five stages are:

Denial – The refusal to accept facts, information or the reality of the situation.
Anger – Lashing out at ourselves, others, the illness, the person or the company that caused the loss.
Bargaining- Trying to negotiate with God or others. “I’ll do this…if you fix this.”
Depression- The feelings of sadness, regret, fear or uncertainty that come with the realization of the event.
Acceptance – Objectivity and acknowledgement of the reality of the event.

I came across an article by Melinda Smith, M.A. and Robert Segal, M.A. while preparing for this portion of the training. It states that when people lose their jobs, they go through these common feelings of loss:

Personal Identity
Self Esteem/Self Confidence
Daily Routine
Purposeful Activity
Loss of work based friends/network
Loss of security

For more information on handling these stages and some suggestions for moving forward, please refer to the article. It may be helpful if you or someone you know is going through the loss of a job.

Resume Preparation Worksheet

2011-12-07T12:37:00.003-05:00

There is a heated argument going on over at LinkedIn about the different styles, uses and formats of resumes. I didn't get involved in that discussion other to express that many times the job seeker is bombarded with too many opinions about the "Right Way To Write a Resume" that it is no wonder why they are so confused and frustrated.

One of the tools that I use in training to prepare for constructing a resume is the Career Assessment Skills plan. This worksheet is divided into five columns and once completed will help create the proper wording for the resume. Please note that this is only one of the tools we use in training or coaching; there are others that further define skills, competencies, strengths and development needs. You can use this worksheet if you are looking for a job within your current field or for a new career interest. The worksheet asks you to define five areas:

Required Job Skills: This section asks you to list all of the skills associated with a particular job. For example, if you are applying for a position as an Administrative Assistant you would list the skills needed for this position. Some of those skills are scheduling, excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to work with a variety of document software packages, prepare reports and routine correspondence, etc. You can find them by reviewing the skills that you currently use in your position or research the skills in the Occupational Handbook from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, or in a reputable job board such as Indeed. You can also Google in the name of the job followed by the words, “job description”.

Tasks Performed: Here you will further define the skills that you listed in the previous column. Using the previous example for Administrative Assistant you would list areas such as the types of scheduling, reports, presentations, correspondence you prepared and performed. An example for scheduling is to list the type of scheduling software program you used as well as the number and positions of the staff you supported. You’d also list the types of reports or correspondence you prepared. This is the data gathering section of the worksheet.

Noteworthy Accomplishments: This is where you look at your specific accomplishments within the above areas and include measurements such as how much, how many, your audience, the results of your performance, number and the level of people you reported to, etc. This detailed information is the key to creating a specific resume.

Training Needed: Looking at the information that you have captured, this is where you would note any training or education that you might need to enhance your performance in this or another position.

Goals/Dates: Finally, it is important to state your performance goals. In this column you should list the steps and dates needed to schedule any training or create and submit your resume.

The information on this worksheet will give you a very good idea of the skills and competencies needed for any particular position and very importantly, your expertise and accomplishments in these area.

Networking and the Holidays

2011-12-06T09:06:00.002-05:00

Just because the holidays are quickly approaching doesn’t mean that it is a time to slack off on your job search; especially networking. The holidays bring in plenty of opportunities to meet with new and old friends and to let them know that you are actively searching for work. The key is to build relationships, keep your eyes open for opportunities but not let it consume you.

A couple of years ago (when Blackbird Learning Associates was new) my neighbors threw a Holiday Cookie Exchange. It was there that I tried out my new elevator speech. My neighbors didn't know that I had left my former company and were surprised to learn that I had ventured out on my own. At the end of the party I had three contacts to call at the start of the New Year. Networking really does work.

Here are a couple of hints:
1. Be Prepared with a short, casual elevator speech. Think of what you’ll say if people ask about you about yourself. Here is an example.
You: “Hi Joan, how have you been?”
Joan: “Great but so busy lately, how about you? How are things?”
You: “Me too, trying to get everything done with the few weeks that we have left to the year. I’m also in the middle of a job search. My company outsourced my department a few weeks ago and on top of the holiday rush, I’m also trying to find a new job.”
Joan: “It’s ridiculous – this is going on everywhere. What are you doing?”
You: “As you know, I’m technical writer and love it. I want to stay in the field and have started serious job hunting. If you happen to know anyone in your company or from your contacts, I would appreciate the help.”
Joan: “Let me think about who I might know. Let’s talk more after the holidays.”
You: “That would be great, thanks Joan. By the way, how is the college search going for Erin?”

2. Listen and be open to the person that you’re talking with. In other words, don’t make it all about you.

3. Be gracious with everyone.

4. Have fun, give yourself a break and enjoy yourself. Don’t be caught off guard but don’t feel as if you have to push yourself constantly.

Talking, listening, laughing and sharing are all parts of networking; all a part of life. It's important to be prepared for any holiday event but enjoy your friends and family first.

On Being Outsourced

2011-11-29T12:37:00.007-05:00

Yesterday I met with a new client. Her department of 31 years has been outsourced to another country. There is a possibility that the company will transfer her to a different domestic location but since that’s all up in the air, she decided to proactively take control of her future. The company offered outplacement assistance in resume preparation and severance package discussions. When I took a look at her resume I was disappointed because it read like job description. She told me that each outsourced employee was given a 30 minute meeting with a resume writer and since all the team members perform a similar job, they all have the same resume. Well, for employees who have worked for the same company since they graduated from high school or college and have never had another reason to look for another job, I guess that this new resume is better than nothing at all.

My client found me from a Job Search for the Older Job Seeker training class that I gave last spring. When she initially contacted me for help she asked for everything; resume and cover letter help, interviewing assistance and coaching, creating a LinkedIn account and networking. She also asked for help with basic computer skills such as using a thumb drive, formatting a resume using plain test, and applying for a job online.

Should you ever find yourself looking at the possibility of being outsourced (even if there is no reason in the world for you to be outsourced); you’ll need to do a couple of things to prepare.
1. Visit your local library and schedule some computer software classes. Ask the librarian for help. You’ll need Word but also the basics of job search engines or Google.
2. Set up a LinkedIn Profile, start gathering contacts and join groups. Not sure of what your LinkedIn profile should look like? Type your position in the search area and click “People” and take a look at other similar profiles. These may give you some ideas. Another idea is to Google your title followed by the words job description.
3. Write out your accomplishments. It helps to gather up any of your old performance appraisals, emails where you were acknowledged for doing something above and beyond the call, etc.
4. Google your name and see what’s out there. Clean up your Facebook, Twitter or other sites and clean up your comments and pictures.
5. Start a list of possible networking contacts and send them a note or email. Let them know what’s going on and ask if they might know of any positions, other contacts or if they would consider writing you a reference for LinkedIn and/or allow you to use them as a general reference.

Taking these steps and being proactive by readying yourself for this next phase in your career can somewhat ease the stress of the unknown. Also, take advantage of the services your company may offer you. It might not be great (as in the cookie cutter resumes of my client’s team) but it is better than nothing.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T12:48:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving has always been a time to stop, think and count my blessings. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you this Thanksgiving; thank you for your support, your kind words, and your insightful comments.

My family is always in my heart, my friends as well. Since starting Blackbird Learning Associates I have met (some in person and some virtually) a wonderful, supportive group of amazing people. I count them in this circle.

My last words in Job Search for Moms are, “Own your change. Look back with gratitude but look ahead with confidence.” May you always look to the future with confidence and gratitude. Thank you for being here and Happy Thanksgiving.

Companies Offering Benefits to Part Time Employees

2011-11-21T10:54:00.007-05:00

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, part-time employment means qualifying to work 1-34 hours per week. Many of our unemployed are turning to part time work for several reasons including hopes for full time employment, a steady salary and benefits. Since the holidays are approaching, some of these companies may be hiring.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of involuntary part-time workers, or those who are working part time for economic reasons rose to 9.3 million in September 2011, up from 8.8 million in August.*

The following companies may offer benefits to part time staff. I say "may" because a few of the articles I reviewed are dated 2010. If you are interested in learning more, please visit their websites and double check.

Barnes & Noble, Cost Plus World Market, FedEx Office, Lands' End, JP Morgan Chase & Co., Lowe's, Nike, JCPenney, Nordstrom, REI, Starbucks, Target, Trader Joe's, UPS, Walgreens, Wegmans, Whole Foods, IKEA, Home Depot, Marriot, U-Haul, McDonalds, Lands End, Capital One Finance, Best Buy, Boscov’s, Macy's, AAA, The Container Store, Staples, Aeroteck.

If you know of any others, please add to the list.

*Career Builder Debra Auerbach.

Five Steps to a Stronger Resume

2011-11-14T17:04:00.004-05:00

Everywhere you look these days there is someone giving advice on writing a resume. It can get confusing and overwhelming at times. Perhaps I can help with some of the more common questions such as, “How many pages should my resume be? How many versions of my resume should I have? How do I make my resume stand out? Now that there is no Resume Objective, what should I use instead? How do I figure out how to display my accomplishments?” Here are a couple of suggestions.

1. Resume Length: Your resumes should be no more than two pages. If you have the type of job where you have published research or written white pages or supporting material, those items can be placed on an addendum.

2. Number of Resumes: You should have a resume for every position for which you apply. You’ll need to create a template resume and then use various versions of it for your job search. One suggestion that I like (although timely to create) is to create a word document of all of your previous position responsibilities with measurable accomplishments to support each statement. Also include examples of your strengths, again with supportive accomplishments. Once you create this word document, it isn’t difficult to copy and paste portions of it to match various positions.

3. Resume Polish: The best way to make your resume stand out is to include measurable accomplishments that will show the employer what you did in the past and the impact these had on your former company. The wording should be carefully aligned to the skills listed in the employer’s job posting. Make sure that you include the required skills (key words) and your accomplishments as they relate to these.

4. Good-bye Objective, Hello Summary Statement: A resume now includes a Summary or Qualifications Statement that succinctly describes your outstanding experience and qualifications. It is an attention grabber; something that makes the hiring manager want to read more.

5. Displaying Your Qualifications: The best way to display your qualifications is to first identify them and then display them boldly. The best way to do this is to chart out your past positions by listing your tasks, responsibilities, accomplishments, certifications and trainings. Make sure that you include any volunteer activities to this list because many of your accomplishments as a volunteer are transferable.

The common theme here is to include specific, measurable accomplishments. If not, most likely your resume will be overlooked.

A Letter to our Leaders

2011-11-14T11:34:00.002-05:00

Dear President Obama and Speaker Boehner,

Something I learned when my children were teenagers was compromise. I learned not to be bothered with the small things and to concentrate on the larger, more life changing events. I would not nor could not tolerate lying, cheating and dishonesty. Instead I tried to listen, ask questions and negotiate. As an employee in corporate America I stuck to these same principles. Most of the time it worked, too.

Why can’t these same simple values apply within our government? Why have months and now, years passed without civil negotiation and compromise? Have you looked on LinkedIn lately? Have you seen the groups full of hopeless job seekers? Have you read the stories of heartache and disillusion? Our people are desperate. They are turned down for positions because they are seen as too old or too overqualified. They have tried every tactic imaginable to get into a job that may be several steps lower than what they had in the past just to get a paycheck. Our people need help. As a job search trainer I have had over 60 people crowd into a small conference room just to learn one new employment tactic. People from affluent areas, people from cities, and people from the suburbs are all suffering.

Name calling, bullying and childish behavior from our elected officials doesn’t help and only adds to the frustration. Come on, we teach our kids how to behave through civil discourse; it’s time for some real conversation in Washington.

Thank you America

2011-11-11T09:29:00.002-05:00

To all our Veterans, thank you for your service. Thank you for protecting our freedom, thank you for your bravery, thank you for your sacrifice.

Career Assessment Tools

2011-11-06T18:55:00.003-05:00

Last week I gave a job search program on Career Assessment and have another one planned for this week. Today, a woman asked me for advice on helping her 21 year old daughter find a career direction.

Since you probably can't make it to my class this week, I thought that I would give you some career assessment tools from my website. They are a combination of instruments that will allow you to focus on your values, interests, personality and skills. Several are from the U.S. government, one is from the Oprah Winfrey electronic magazine and one is from Rutgers University (Placement Office). All are free and you can take them as often as you’d like.

Good luck! If you have any questions, please let me know. I’d be happy to help.

NJ Women's Expo

2011-10-29T08:35:00.004-04:00

The other day while on Facebook, I noticed that a friend "liked" a group called the NJ Women's Expo. I took a look at it and "liked" it too. The NJ women's Expo is a event that is planned for the weekend of November 5 & 6, 2011. It will showcase the area's very best products, services, seminars and attractions created especially for women.

I then contacted the NJ women's Expo site and asked for information for the 2012 show. I figured that while it is too late to get involved this year, perhaps I could think about speaking at the event next year. Yesterday I got a call from the group asking ihttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giff I would showcase my book for at least one day of the show. The best part? It's free.

The moral of the story is to take a chance. Don't be afraid to contact someone (or a hiring manager) because you don't think that you are qualified. You never know what might happen.

If you are in the NJ area on November 6, 2011 between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm, please visit the expo. I'll be in the Book Nook talking about my book, Job Search for Moms. Please drop by and say "Hi". It looks like a a fun event.

Watch What You Say in Social Media

2011-10-24T21:49:00.001-04:00

My friend John Fox, The Golden Rule Guy posted an interesting link today that reiterated the point that a whopping 91% of employers are using social media to screen perspective employees. He also stressed that what you post is out there for all to see. Please check out his blog – it is very thought provoking.

John’s post got me thinking not only of the employment process but also of the thousands of high school kids who are right now applying to colleges. Our family went through the college application process last year around this time of year. We had to remind our son that he had to be careful of his Facebook posts and pictures. It’s very easy for a college to look up someone. Even if the security setting protects the “Wall”, the pictures may be open for all to see. Is a college going to think highly of someone with a beer in their hand or openly displaying ummm, affection for someone? And while we’re on the subject, remind your kids that if they leave their Facebook or Twitter pages open and walk away, one of their friends may think it’s funny to write something really gross or inappropriate on the page. I’m probably preaching to the choir here but this is something you may want to stress to your children.

Of course the same rules apply to the internships and the job search. It’s best to look at your profile and ask yourself if based on what you see, you would hire yourself. If anything there makes you question yourself; take it down. While you are at it, take a look at your friend’s posts. If there is anything inappropriate and it shows on your wall, hide it (go to the post and towards the upper right of it, you’ll see a small downward facing arrow. Click it and then click Hide Story).

With social media our words and actions are out there for anyone to see. It’s hard enough to find a job or get accepted to a choice college as it is. Why mess around with it because of something you or someone else posted to a social media outlet?

The LinkedIn Introduction

2011-10-10T08:05:00.006-04:00

I'm writing a very short post today but it is something that bothers me and I'm sure quite a few other LinkedIn members. When inviting someone to connect on LinkedIn (or really any other social media outlet) don't use the canned statement provided by LinkedIn, "I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn."

Customize your invitation by letting the person you are inviting to connect know how you are connected. If you don't know the person, customize your invitation with a statement such as, "We share the NJ Networking Group and I have found your responses to the questions very helpful." Write something; use anything but the general supplied statement.

Most people will not respond to people that they don't know. It's human nature. If you want to be taken seriously, take a few minutes and create your own introduction. It shows people that you care, are interested and are not being lazy and choosing people randomly.

By the way, it was a gorgeous weekend on the east coast. I hope it was just as nice where you are.

The Job Search and Dress?

2011-10-04T09:28:00.006-04:00

Who ever thought that we’d have to talk about clothing choices in my job search blog? Unfortunately, inappropriate interviewing clothing has become a common theme. I know that in the corporate world the limits of the dress code were often tested and even last week at a corporate training session, this very subject was a topic of discussion.

A friend of mine interviewed with a major retail store recently. My friend has excellent taste in clothing and has a knack for dressing beautifully for whatever activity she is attending (she doesn’t spend and arm and a leg either). The retailer was holding an open house for perspective employees and hundreds of people attended. What surprised my friend was the number of people who arrived for the interview wearing shorts, tee shirts, flip flops, or looking as if they just rolled out of bed. What didn’t surprise her was that after several rounds of interviews, it was the professionally dressed crowd who were led into another room to sign the hiring paperwork.

What’s going on? Should people be taught the basics of dressing for a job interview? When my friend and I talked about it, I wondered if some of these people showed up for the open interview dressed like that because they didn’t care if they got the job. Perhaps they showed up so that they could report back to the unemployment office that they applied for position but didn’t get an offer. Who knows?

Another friend told me that she was looking at on-line job postings and noticed that several of them mentioned that “neat, professional dress” was written into the posting. Hummmm, not as uncommon as I had originally thought.

What do you think is going on?

Teens and the Job Application Process

2011-09-27T19:10:00.015-04:00

My 18 year old son is applying for a job at a restaurant near his college and has a tentative appointment to meet with the hiring manager this Sunday. While he has experience as a server from a few years ago, he has spent the past two summers as a lifeguard. On the surface, lifeguarding may not count towards wait staff experience but it does carry a number of valuable transferable skills such as leadership, communication, responsibility and tenacity.

As he goes off to apply to the restaurant this week-end, I wanted to remind him of a couple of job search tips. Here they are in no particular order.

1. See if the company has an on-line presence and read up on the company. If the company has a position description or a “Working with Us” tab, read the details.
2. Dress appropriately. I told him to wear his khakis, a good shirt and shoes (no flip flops).
3. Bring the names of his previous supervisors and the dates of employment.
4. Bring the names and phone numbers of at least two references.
5. Bring his school schedule.
6. Drive himself over. If someone begs to come along, have them wait in the car.
7. Ask for the manager by name. “My name is ___. I’d like to speak with (name of hiring manager) please.”
8. Bring a pen.
9. Bring a calendar or use your phone’s scheduling feature.
10. Speak clearly and politely yet show your personality. Be prepared to answer questions about your past jobs.

If your child is ready to take on a part time position, please share these tips with them. There are a number of online sites that provide job descriptions of the various types of jobs that teens (or really anyone) may want to pursue. A good one is My Job Apps.

Clean Up Your Facebook Kids

2011-09-26T16:05:00.017-04:00

Our son went off to college a few weeks ago. He’s a freshman and while his school isn’t too far away, he’s living on campus and loving his new life. The other day, much to my surprise, he ‘friended” me on Facebook. While I wasn’t sure that I wanted to know about his comings and goings, I was, well, honored and felt it was a huge step in his maturity. I looked at his posts and his pictures and luckily, all was above board and there wasn’t too much to worry about. I did worry about his friends though. I was surprised that I was able to look at the pictures and status of many of his friends; those still in high school as well as those in college. As a job search coach, that really bothered me (the Mom in me was really annoyed).

Most of the pictures are of underage drinking. First of all, that’s illegal. It’s wrong and as parents we need to monitor our kids and not close our eyes to what is going on right under our noses. There are plenty of resources out there for help in this area. I personally feel strongly about this subject and don’t have much empathy for parents who throw up their hands and say that there is nothing that they can do about it.

Since this is a job search blog though, I asked myself if the high school kids realize that the admissions counselor at the college they want to attend can look at those pictures. If I can easily look up a name, couldn’t a college or a potential employer? Also, how do the college kids who want to get an internship, summer job or a “real” job expect to get any employment offers if they are only depicted as partying?

First of all stop with all the partying (especially if you’re in high school). Next, correct your security options on your social media accounts. Most people age 25+ are aware of this and have corrected their settings. The younger crowd, who is supposedly much more technically savvy, are posting their pages and pictures out there for the whole world to see. Perhaps it doesn’t mean anything to them now but it should.

Facebook and Change- Part 2

2011-09-22T15:57:00.012-04:00

As someone who has casually and non-scientifically studied human behavior for many years as a learning and development specialist, I know that most people don’t like unexplained change. I have a theory about all of the complaints surrounding the new Facebook updates.

Huge social networking groups like Facebook, Google and Twitter were founded by members of Gen X (born in the early 1960s to late 1970s) and Gen Y (born late 1970s to early 2000s). Facebook founder, Mark Elliot Zuckerberg was born in 1984. Jack Dorsey, the founder of Twitter was born in 1976 and the creators of Google, Larry Page, Sergey Brin were born in the early 70’s. These generations, especially Gen Y were brought up on technology. Since they were born into a world of computers, cell phones, computer games they are much more technically savvy than any other generation.

The demographics concerning Facebook show that over the past two years there has been an increasing amount of new members who are in the 35 – 50+ age range. One of the fastest growing demographics in 2009 showed that women aged 55+ grew over 175.3%! (The Baby Boomer generation). Since many Boomers are generally less technically astute than the demographic of the Facebook management and staff, it might explain the complaints and uproar over the new layout. Perhaps for future roll-outs, the company reviews its own statistics and considers other methods of communication and introduction. Maybe Basic Marketing 101 is a good place to start.

To link this sentiment to the job search, everyone, including Baby Boomers need to be aware of and keep up with the changes and advances made in business and technology. This will help cancel the stereotype that Boomers aren’t flexible.

Facebook and Handling Change

2011-09-21T08:44:00.011-04:00

I had to laugh this morning when I saw the new changes to Facebook. It seems as if they are changing things on a regular basis lately. I complained on my status box as well because it’s annoying trying to figure out how to do certain things all over again. It made me think about how we handle change and how people handle things differently; just like my Kittie and the Cone post from the other day. Let’s take a quick look at the Seven Dynamics of Change, from Ken Blanchard again, only this time inserting Facebook as the change agent rather than the fancy cat neck wear. When first introduced to a change people are:
1. Awkward and ill at ease
a. How the he** am I supposed to figure out this?
b. Am I the only one who is feeling frustrated over this new layout?
2. Think first of what they must give up
a. Now everyone will see my updates.
b. There goes my privacy.
c. I’ll miss the old Facebook.
3. Feel alone although others are also going through the change too
a. 750 million people use Facebook. Am I the only one who is annoyed at this?
b. Am I the only person who can’t figure out how to get rid of these side boxes?
4. Can handle only so much
a. Enough already! Quit with the changes!
5. They are at different readiness levels for change
a. I love this!
b. I hate this!
c. Who cares?
6. Are concerned about resources
a. I don’t have time to figure this out.
b. I don’t have the energy to figure this out.
7. Will revert back to their old ways when the pressure is lessened.
a. In a heartbeat. Leave a good thing alone!

We're only human and we're all in this together!

Handling Change; Lessons From My Cat

2011-09-18T13:18:00.007-04:00

Our cat, Kittie had surgery on her paw on Friday. She was somehow wounded while walking around the neighborhood. It’s a puncture wound that had abscessed and she is now required to wear a cone around her head to prevent her from licking the incision. I’m not sure if I should call her “our” cat. She is a stray that took a fancy to our house about 13 years ago because I am a sucker for homeless animals. Here it is all of these years later and I am still searching for her real owners. Anyway, she is in for a surprise once she is healed. The cone may be removed but she is now going to be stuck inside.

Kittie is very uncomfortable with the paw, cone and being stuck inside. It’s change and even animals are uncomfortable with change. I’ve watched her as she tries to deal with her new accessory. She paces, bumps into things, walks in circles, tries to remove it, and hits her head against any object standing in her way. She cries as if she is complaining to me. In many ways, her behavior reminds me of the way people deal with change. According to Ken Blanchard, in the Seven Dynamics of Change, when people are first alerted of a change, they go through several steps. The cat is displaying some of these but she’s not human. People go through all of these steps, especially during a job loss.

1. They are awkward and ill at ease
a. I am the only one of my friends without a job
b. What will my family think?
2. They think first of what they must give up
a. It’s time to tighten the purse strings.
b. I’ll miss my peers
c. I’ll miss the work
d. I’ll definitely miss the security
3. They feel alone although others are also going through the change too
a. 14 million people have lost work since 2008. Why do I think it is only me?
b. No one understands what I am going through
4. They can handle only so much
a. With a job loss comes economic belt tightening
b. The stressors of normal life become harder to bear.
5. They are at different readiness levels for change
a. This may have come at a time when a change in careers was wanted. For others, no.
6. They are concerned about resources
a. Finances are critical and non-essentials are placed on the back burner
7. When the pressure is lessened they will revert back to their old ways.
a. Many times, comfortable job search tactics are used. These include emailing resumes to web addresses or applying on line. On the surface, these steps may provide a sense of accomplishment but in the long run they are not as effective as networking and face to face interaction.

Losing a job is difficult and while it is common to grieve and feel many of the emotions listed above, it is also a time for reflection and reconnecting.

Interviewing Preparation

2011-09-12T13:29:00.001-04:00

As a job search coach one of the areas where I am asked to provide guidance and suggestions is interviewing. Many times my clients want to know how to prepare for the interview and other times they want to practice interviewing.
While I can’t predict all of the questions that will be asked of an applicant, we do prepare based upon the job posting and by reviewing the client’s resume, strengths, weaknesses and accomplishments. Here is what we do:

1. Review the job posting for key words and job specific phrasing. Take a piece of paper and draw two columns. In the first column, write down the job wording and job responsibilities (write them one by one). In the second column, write out your accomplishments as they relate to these words and phrases. Look at your resume for guidance (after all, there was something in your resume that interested the hiring manager or HR representative). Refer to your prior work experience and also any outside or volunteer work.

2. Look up the company website and read the sections entitled Home, About Us and Our Employees. Review any new products and services as well as the company core values. These sections will provide additional information about your understanding of the company and you can again align your past performance with their principles.

3. Google the company and do as stated above. Also look them up on LinkedIn.

4. Practice interviewing using behavioral questions. Go back to the two-column chart you created earlier and using the wording in the left-hand side, create behavioral questions. For example, if you are applying for an Environmental Engineering position and one of the job responsibilities is “soil and groundwater sampling”, two behavioral questions might be, “Take me though the steps you use in groundwater sampling. What tests do you perform, what do you do with the results?” or “What are some of the issues that you have run into while doing groundwater testing? How did you handle these and what were the results?” Practice answering these questions out loud or with a partner.

5. Have a list of questions to ask the interviewer. You don’t need to save the questions for the end of the interview; ask them or any question whenever you need clarification or more detail. Some sample questions to ask the hiring company include, “What are the pressing needs of this position?”, “What are the goals of the department, the organization?”,”I read that you just introduced Product X, how is this position related to the roll out of that product?”

There are other ways to prepare such as answering the Strengths, Weaknesses and Tell Me About Yourself questions and we can talk about these at another time. The important thing about interviewing is to prepare. While the interviewer may not ask you everything on your list, it is better to be prepared. After all, preparation leads to a better understanding of yourself and that naturally leads to confidence and assuredness.

September 11, 2011

2011-09-10T22:32:00.005-04:00

Ten years ago I was in Monmouth Medical Center in NJ looking out of my mother’s hospital room window at the sparkling ocean to the east and the billows of smoke to the north. There was a boat not far from the shore line and I remember wondering if the driver realized that the world we knew a mere thirty minutes ago would never,ever return.

My mother was just given her own death sentence. The day before she had surgery to remove a cancerous tumor in her colon and was told she had 6 to 18 months to live. We were devastated as we watched the events of 9-11 unfold from her small hospital room television. As the towers imploded she said, “What I am going through is nothing compared to what is going on across the river.” The television quickly turned to the Pentagon and we watched the flames and horror in Washington D.C. Then, like so many others, we heard about the battle in the air over Shanksville, PA.

The hospital was cleared of all non-critical patients to make room for the victims of the terror attack. We were told that they would be arriving by ferry and then by ambulance. We bundled up my Mom and drove her home, all the while listening for the ambulances that would never arrive.

May God bless all the courageous souls that were lost that day and may God continue to bless our great country. May the Freedom Tower rise up to display to the world the continued strength, tenacity and resilience of the American people.

The Swordfish

2011-09-06T08:22:00.013-04:00

We took our son to college yesterday. After weeks of shopping and preparing and packing (all done by me by the way), he was ready. We had an earthquake and a hurricane the week before move in but the school was ready to take my child and embrace him, even though I wasn’t ready to let him go.

Unlike his sister, our son is more reserved and apprehensive about meeting people. It takes him a while to warm up but once he gets to know someone he is gregarious and charming. Before he left yesterday we took a walk to a river by our house. There was so much that I wanted to tell him that had already been said before yet I wanted a few precious moments alone with him. He hadn’t said anything but I knew that he was apprehensive about leaving home. He’d miss his friends, girl friend and lifestyle. He was not sure about his choice of majors either. I just wanted to hold him again like I did when he was a child and let him know that everything would be fine.

I did say that he was not alone in his apprehension. Meeting new people in college can be as daunting as meeting new people anywhere. It’s another kind of networking. Every kid moving into a dormitory most likely feels that same way and is nervous and looking for someone to connect with. As far as meeting new people, the rules will never change. Get out there, get involved, and open yourself to new ideas and cultures. I read an article about college networking and while the location is different from the world of job search, the elements are the same. http://www.wetfeet.com/blog/2011/september/networking-in-college.

Now, about that swordfish. We have a 7 foot swordfish that hung in a spare room at my parent's house. The previous owners didn't want it and left it there for my parent's "enjoyment'. Today, my husband and I drove the fish over to the dorm. As my son and his roommate walked it into the dorm, all eyes were on them cheering, laughing and smiling. It was an ice-breaker, a novelty and a conversation starter. It's their opening to meet new people and you know....network.

Welcome Guests

2011-09-05T21:12:00.002-04:00

I never really looked at my blog statistics before. That comes from my i personal style (DiSC profile). I also think it is because I like to write about a job search subject or occasionally another subject just as it comes to me. Usually I get my ideas from training class guests or from an article that I have read.

Tonight, as I was looking at the backroom information that Blogger shares, I noticed that many of my readers are from around the world. We have visitors from ten different countries! Thank you all for reading and sharing The Flap! Here are the countries and number of visitors represented:

United States 8961
Russia 252
Netherlands 202
United Kingdom 193
Germany 174
Denmark 156
Canada 142
India 95
Latvia 69
Slovenia 54

Please let me know if you have a particular subject or question about the job search. What would you, the reader like to know? If I don’t have an immediate answer I will research it for you. Thanks for being here.

Networking and Hurricane Irene

2011-08-30T21:33:00.010-04:00

It has been three days since Hurricane Irene hit New Jersey. While the New Jersey coastline was severely damaged in many spots, at the last minute Irene veered to the left and caused major havoc in central and northern NJ, NY, and New England. Before she started blowing and while we still had electricity, I joined a Facebook group called, Jersey Shore Hurricane News, a group created by three men who provide "up-to-the-minute news and original analysis to keep you informed during the approach of tropical systems. We're currently focusing on Hurricane Irene." The Jersey Shore Hurricane group grew to over 25,000 members and many of them have joined the conversation and contributed the kind of instant detail that can't be found on TV or on the radio.

Throughout the storm I looked to the group for information about the current weather conditions, flooded neighborhoods and lightning strikes. Then, when our power went out and I switched to my Blackberry, I learned that my downtown had flooded and evacuations had started. Today, three days later I am still reading reports about road closures and detours, lost pets, water stations, member clothing donations, evacuation center needs, locations where the power has been restored and many stories of neighbor helping neighbor. The Jersey Shore Hurricane Group also provides details concerning all of our hard hit state.

This, my friends is the true definition of networking; listening, sharing, responding and commenting. It is helping someone else by providing information that you know they need and can immediately use. It is giving without expecting to receive something in return. It is in essence, the very "human" part of human nature.

Networking According to my Mother

2011-08-23T11:07:00.005-04:00

When I was a little girl I was painfully shy. I don’t know how it happened but I wouldn’t surprised if some “thoughtful” adult in my life introduced me as, “This is Nancy. She is shy”. When I was about six years old, my mother decided to put an end to it and she gently eased me into meeting other children. I remember a day when we first moved to Eatontown, NJ after my Dad was transferred back from Germany to head the Army Central Intelligence Office out of Newark. We rented a farmhouse situated on 24 acres of fields and barns and fruit trees. It was a fun place for a kid with a love of the outdoors and an imagination.

One day the children from the neighborhood came over to see who the two new girls were. My sister ran outside and jumped right into the conversation and action. I looked out of my window at the fun and wished that I was as bold as she. My mother, noticing my hesitance took me by the hand and led me out to meet the neighbors. Oh it was hard and I can remember hiding behind her, clutching a stuffed lamb for dear life. Gradually, with her encouragement and casual conversation I stood in front of the new kids and smiled. They didn’t care that I was “shy” or quiet; they just wanted to play in our huge yard. We remained friends for years.

Looking back I can remember some of the lessons my mother taught me about meeting other people (networking) and I am so grateful. As the years went on and I had a family of my own, she continued her introductions and friendly matchmaking with my children. Today marks the seventh year of her passing. As I thought of her and gratefully acknowledged the huge role she played in molding who I am today, I jotted down her networking tips. (She would have laughed at the word networking; she most likely would have called them common sense people skills.) They are great tips for the kid in all of us.

1. Be yourself. You are who you are and can’t ever make yourself someone else.
2. Be open to new people and new ideas. You might learn something.
3. Treat everyone the way that you want to be treated. Everyone has feelings just like you. Everyone should be respected.
4. Get out there even if you don’t feel like it. You’ll most likely enjoy yourself more than you expected.
5. Not everyone is as confident as they appear. Everyone has some sort of insecurity. Be open to people and make them feel comfortable.
6. If someone is not interested, so what? Move on and meet someone new.

I’ve carried these tips along with me through life. Her advice, recipes, voice, smile and mannerisms have made me who I am today and I am grateful.

Resume Preparation

2011-08-22T12:25:00.002-04:00

One of the things that I have been doing more of lately is helping people write their resumes. While it is time consuming and often very frustrating I find it challenging and enormously rewarding. Sometimes I will receive a half page of the highlights from someone’s 30 year career. Other times I may get a five page report of the daily/weekly/monthly tasks that someone has meticulously prepared. I look at these resumes and everything in between as a great start. Someone made an effort to capture their working life and that’s a hard thing to do.

Here’s what I do to involve a client in creating their own specific resume template. Perhaps you can do the same thing to prepare your own resume.

1. Research the client’s past companies to learn what they actually did. Go to the company employment page, enter the job and read the job description. Clarify with the client that they performed these activities. Expand on these and make them measurable by asking questions such as:
a. Who do you work with? Internal? External? Where were they located?
b. How many clients did you have? (If applicable)
c. Within this position did you save money, time, create a process, design a procedure, etc.?
d. Looking at that position, what were your biggest accomplishments? What were you proud of? Why?
e. What did you like about this job? What didn’t you like?

2. Look up the type of position the client wants (any job board, ehow -money and the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook). Do the job responsibilities align with what the client has said? Is there new wording that can be incorporated into the resume (new buzz words, technology, jargon)? Expand on these by asking the client:
a. Have you done these types of activities before? What specifically were the results?
b. Could you jump into this job tomorrow? Why? Capture the specific activities that support this.
c. Why are you perfect for this job? Again, capture the specific activities that support this.

3. Go to the online pages of the companies that the client is interested in working for. Read the “About Us”, “Our Philosophy”, and “Our Employees” type of pages and read the wording. Ask the client:
a. What have you done in the past that supports this company philosophy, etc.?
b. How would you fit into this company?
c. Why would this company want you?

All in all it is a lot of questioning, note taking and thinking. The responses are then culled down to specific wording and resume format. It's a great start, the client is involved and in the long run, sees themselves as an accomplished player with skin in the game. You can do it too.

The Networking Event - A Follow Up

2011-08-17T10:28:00.007-04:00

As I mentioned in yesterdays blog, I was about to attend a women’s networking event and like many people, I was nervous. Sure, I have an entire class based purely on networking and my book is filled with tons of networking tips. Still that old uncomfortable feeling came over me, “What if no one will talk to me?”

The event topped off at 50 people and the room was set up with standing pub tables and sit down tables and chairs. As expected there were clusters of women who knew one another and stood in small groups catching up. There were also single women and those who moved from group to group. I was prepared, though and this is what I learned.

1. We talked about our jobs.
2. We talked about our families
3. We talked about sports
4. We talked about our jobs again

We talked about our jobs. With drink in hand we introduced ourselves and our businesses. The variety of companies and positions in the room was impressive. Since we were all business owners, the playing field was level. Our introductions quickly turned to our businesses and it was remarkable to see people talk so comfortably about their passions.
Tip: Practice your elevator speech but don’t make it sound rehearsed. Think about what you love about your field of interest and let that passion shine through.

We talked about our families: Many attending the networking meeting had families and the conversation quickly turned to children, colleges, jobs and locations. I realized that like-aged women seemed to gather together. I did notice that the younger (20 something’s) stuck together and didn’t really stray outside of their own group.

We talked about sports: Many years ago there was a networking survey conducted that tested the false theory that when men get together they talk about business and sports and when women get together they talk about anything but business. We again proved that the hypothesis was wrong as we discussed teams, personal sporting likes and dislikes and local events.

We talked about business again. We exchanged cards, business ideas and scheduled future meetings. When I returned home, I connected with these women on LinkedIn.

This networking event was for me, about gathering business. For the job seeker, the same principles apply. It’s all about personal connection followed up with a social connection. It’s about listening and sharing information and not pushing. It’s about meeting new people and establishing relationships. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and taking a chance.

I am looking forward to doing business with my new connection and continuing the relationship with my other new contacts.

Networking Events

2011-08-16T10:24:00.004-04:00

Tonight I am attending a professional networking group meeting. It is for professional women in my county and is limited to 50 guests. Networking is great however not all people are great networkers. I train about it and coach about it but honestly, it makes me uncomfortable. It reminds me of going to a party and not knowing anyone but the host. Depending on your personality, it can be intimidating too. So what am I doing to prepare? I intend to:

1. Practice my elevator speech. My elevator speech for tonight will be short (15 seconds or so). I intend to listen and question more than speak.
2. Don't make it all about me. Did you ever go to a party and run into the person who only talks about themselves, their families, their successes, their whatever? I don't EVER want to be that type.
4. Exchange cards when asked. I certainly won't shove my card into someone's hand unless asked.
5. Take notes when I get home. I intend to remember names, companies and interesting facts about the people I talk with and follow up with them later. If I see something that I think that they will like, I will forward it to them with a note.

What do you do to prepare for a networking event?

Hometown Facebook Pages Go Viral

2011-08-08T08:36:00.004-04:00

Have you noticed all of the “You know you’re from (insert name of town) when…” Facebook groups popping up? Every day I see that another one of my friends has joined one and has joyfully jumped into the local conversation. I’m not excluding myself because I’m right in there sharing memories about my favorite beaches or the Firemen’s Fairs we attended or the best pizza or subs joints on the Jersey shore. Why are these groups appearing so suddenly and why all of the happy talk? I’ve got a couple of theories.

The sky is falling. Last week the stock market plunged, the unemployment numbers barely budged, Standard and Poor’s downgraded the US credit rating to A++ (an historical slap in the face) and our US representatives were arguing and taunting each other like school kids. Who wouldn’t want to forget all the nastiness in the world and go back to a time when we were young, foolish and rode our bikes until it was "dark o'clock"? The teachers, friendships and the songs are the comfort foods that we long to devour when the world is going to hell in a hand basket outside our very windows.

Social media has made is so much easier to connect. I can remember my father calling for telephone information in Iowa, Colorado and California looking for the phone numbers of his former Army buddies. When he was able to get one of the guys “on the horn” they reminisced about the old days and the mischief they caused and even the dangers they faced. They hugged one another over the phones lines and promised to get together at one of the annual reunions. If my dad was around now, I’m sure that he’d be Googling every name in his address book or joining a Facebook group devoted to Army World War II or Korean War veterans.

Since this is a job search column, I don’t need to tell you that these groups are also building up your networking contacts. Relationships are being re-established and new ones are created. Our shared memories are a bridge. By the way, some groups are allowing the members to post their business names in a separate document. I applaud those groups because they are allowing the members to network professionally and hopefully help someone with any employment needs. NOTE: It’s rude to advertise your company name in a Facebook group without asking the administrator for permission first. It silences the group members and makes people very uncomfortable.

Whatever the reason for joining one of these hometown groups, enjoy them. If you find that they aren’t for you, you can always leave them. I know that for now, I am going to stick around mine and enjoy the conversation.

When the Writing is on the Wall (or Not)

2011-08-02T09:45:00.007-04:00

"In case of an emergency, break glass"

Sometimes a job termination can come out of the blue. It smacks you right in the gut and brings out emotions that you never thought were even possible. If it is warranted fine, then it won’t be such a surprise. If not, then the rage, hurt, and anger can rise to the surface and sap your energy and self esteem. It can leave you feeling shattered, helpless and without a clue about where to turn next.

Some companies have a bit of compassion and will give you a bit of notice. Whether a reduction in the workforce is two months or two weeks down the road, this at least gives you a chance to process the news and begin the physical and emotional preparations to leave. Others (and some very respectful companies) are not so compassionate and will bowl you over in disbelief. This second option is cruel.

Even if you feel comfortable with your standing in your company, it pays to be prepared in case you are eventually caught in the cross hairs. What can you do now to prepare?

1. Copy all of your performance appraisals. If you don’t have them, ask your manager for a copy for your files.
2. Review and document all your past trainings and certifications.
3. Review your email for any thank you notes or recommendations from internal and external clients, peers, managers, etc. Print them.
4. Document any internal company awards. What were they for, why did you receive them?
5. Look at the goals you established for the past three to five years. What were the measurable accomplishments? Who (and where) were your internal and external clients? If you had to, could you explain the tasks involved in these goals? Print these too.
6. Look at your electronic or paper calendar and document important events. These may remind you of particular activities or project work.

If you work for a company that doesn’t use goals or performance appraisals (shame on them) it may be more difficult to go mining for information. What is important is that you document everything about your job. This includes:

• Your customers. Who are they? Where are they located? How many customers do you have?
• Your day to day activities
• Your major accomplishments over the past five or so years

When I worked as an HR Consultant and a Learning and Development Consultant, I presented goal setting and performance management training. One of my tips was to create a “Me File”. As the days, months and year passed, I suggested filling it with all important documentation. As an employee, the file documented the projects, tasks, etc that were accomplished in the year and were a good reference tool for preparing a performance appraisal.

If you are suddenly faced with a reduction in workforce and are terminated, grab your Me File when you leave. Its new purpose is to help you find new employment and will be the fodder for your resume and interviews.

Resume and Interviewing Don'ts

2011-07-28T15:18:00.006-04:00

In my past life as an HR representative I was given the opportunity to review hundreds of resumes. I was also able to interview many candidates whose resumes showed that they had the right stuff. In my current position as job search trainer, resume writer and coach, I've again been given the wonderful opportunity to work with many people who have varying job search needs.

Today, I was thinking about all the resumes I've seen, the questions I've heard and the people I've interviewed. I've put together this list of Resume and Interviewing Don'ts with hopes that I can help you. Some are written tongue in cheek but these are some of the things I have seen and heard. If you have any to share, please add them.

1. Don't wear shorts and flip flops to your interview. While you're at it, don't chew gum either.
2. Don't tell me that you have no accomplishments in your 20 year career. You do - you just have to go somewhere quiet and think about them.
3. Don't have a cute email address. Get another one for your business purposes and use that one instead of butterflylady@whatever.com or barfly@whatever.com. Your name or first initial and last name is always a good choice.
4. Don't be lethargic during your interview. Save the nap for when you get home and after you write your thank you notes.
5. Don't get caught up in the minutia of picky wording in your resume. It will drive you crazy. Stop typing and walk away for a while. While you're at it, don't include things that aren't relevant to the position for which you are applying.
6. Don't make your resume writer beg you for detail - be prepared or at least have an idea of your skill set, strengths and accomplishments.
7. Don't let your pre-interview nerves eat at you. If you review the job listing, company profile and have practiced answering questions on how well your past behavior and accomplishments have worked; you're nervousness will turn into adrenaline and you'll feel more confident.
8. Don't post anything that you wouldn't want your mother to see on any social media outlets.
9. Don't shy away from social media. It is your job search friend (resource).
10. When the interviewer asks, “Any questions?” don’t say “No, I think you covered it.” Have at least two or three questions at the ready. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions throughout the interview.

Hide Your Facebook Pictures!

2011-07-27T13:02:00.004-04:00

My son is in a band and the other night his band loaded a new song to their Facebook page. He asked me to go over and take a listen. While I was listening to the new song, I scrolled through the comments of the band’s friends and followers and took a look at the pictures of the band members. I clicked on my son’s name and it took me to his personal Facebook page pictures. Since I am not my son’s Facebook friend (nor would I want to be), I couldn’t see his regular Facebook page. I could however, see his pictures and those of many of his friends.

Many of us are warned in job search articles and trainings to change our Facebook Privacy Settings to make sure that only the basic facts appear. If not set correctly, a recruiter may click on your pictures (like I did) and see things that may give him or her a negative opinion about you. Since people make comments under those pictures, a recruiter (and your mother) can read those too. If a technically savvy 18 year old and many of his friends aren’t aware of this, you can bet that many other people are sharing their pictures and comments with the world as well.

Here is how to correct it:
1. Go to Account (upper right hand side of the screen by the login box).
2. Click Privacy Settings.
3. Review the page, “Choose Your Privacy Settings” and make sure that the term, “Photos and videos you are tagged in” is set to Friends only.
4. Click the phrase, “Edit privacy setting for existing photos albums and videos”. This takes you to all of your pictures. Under each set of pictures is a rectangular box with a diagram of a lock on it. Set the box to Friends Only.
5. Click the box that says “Preview my Profile”, review your changes and you are finished.

Whether you're job searching not; it's better to be safe and secure knowing that only your friends can see your pictures.

The Panel Interview

2011-07-25T08:10:00.007-04:00

The other day I had a coaching session with someone who was preparing for a panel interview. She dreaded the meeting and the thought of walking into a room for an interview with three strangers who could determine her fate was intimidating! Yes, it can be intimidating but preparation is vital and if you put the whole thing into perspective and look at the interview as a discussion (rather than a firing squad), it’s not too bad. Here are a couple of tips that I shared with my client:

1. Be prepared to answer behavioral questions that will take the panel through the steps you followed to solve a problem or work through a challenging situation. We’ve talked about the STAR behavioral steps in previous articles. Answer each question thoroughly but don’t ramble. Look at the body language of the interview team to clarify their understanding. If they seem confused, ask if you can provide further clarification or details. Each of the panel members has a personal agenda or stake in the interview so figure out their needs and concerns and respond accordingly. Ask questions.

2. Prior to the interview, try to get each person’s name and title. (They may be on LinkedIn.) Address the interviewer by name as you are asked questions. (This might be challenging for people who have problems with names but it can provide extra brownie points.) It’s good to get an understanding of how the open position ties into the various departments represented in the panel. Be engaged, ask questions, take notes and listen.

3. Always look at the person who asked you a question in the eye, respond to him or her and then continue your response while making eye contact with the rest of the panel. Don’t feel intimidated (easy for me to say). Rather, pretend that this interview is a business dinner and that you are having a conversation among colleagues.

4. Be confident but not overly so. When you are passionate about your field or a topic it shows.

5. Follow up the interview with a personalized thank-you note to each panel member.

An hour and a half later and my client had a plan. She had three days to prepare and was going back to review her past accomplishments, strengths, weaknesses, and discussion points. She also had a set of questions to ask the panel. She was excited and while her nerves were still on high alert, she was preparing to do her very best. I can’t wait to hear how she does.

Lacking Skill Sets and the Unemployed

2011-07-20T17:18:00.007-04:00

I just read this article from CNN Money. It's about the jobless stories of seven individuals who are concerned that their current skill sets are just not cutting it in today’s uncertain job market. There are a number of common positions in the article such as IT professional, journalist and mortgage broker. These people remind me of many of the people that we all know; solid workers who have been toiling along for the past 10, 15, 20 or 30 years and then the rug was pulled out from under them. I meet many of these unemployed in every one of my classes and most of them have one thing in common; they never took advantage of any skill development or training offerings that their companies offered.

I know, I know, not all companies offer training. These companies are in the minority. What hits the suddenly unemployed is that they are unceremoniously shown the door and when everything calms down and they take a long look at themselves, they wonder if their current skill set can take them somewhere else. Many times the answer is no. It's scary.

I found myself in the same position when I lost my job. I however, didn't blame my company for not preparing me with the current skills in my field. That was my fault. I was too busy working to go to any classes. (I was too busy training other people to worry about my own development). I was comfortable; I knew my field inside and out and frankly didn’t want to waste a day attending a class. This is a serious mindset of many people and we need to change it. We all need to develop and learn the new technologies and theories in our particular fields. The problem is, we don't have time to take off from work or if we do go, the company doesn't support the training or "allow" us to use the new skills. Then, many of us just stop attending training. It's unfortunate and it seems as if many of the people in the CNN article went through the same thing. So what can we do?"

1. If you are currently unemployed. Go to the library, look on line, read and study everything there is to learn in your field. If you can afford if, take a couple of courses. Perhaps you can speak to a financial advisor at a college or technical school to learn if there are any incentives or grants to allow you to train for your current or a new position. Another suggestion is to take a free career assessment and measure your skill level in your field of interest. Finally, look for various professional groups and see if you can attend a meeting at no cost.

2. If you are currently employed. Go to training. Take advantage of everything your organization offers you both internally and externally. If your company allows, join a professional group and attend the meetings, lunch and dinner meetings and networking events.

There are other reasons that the unemployed are concerned about their limited skill sets and the lack of training is just one reason that I see as a major cause. There are jobs available but many employers are consolidating positions, hiring interns or younger, less experienced people or even, dare I say, discriminating against the unemployed. Still, I'd love to hear your thoughts about the article and any suggestions you may have to help people sharpen their skill sets.

Five Keys to Success for Older Workers (Part 2)

2011-07-15T08:53:00.004-04:00

Last week I wrote about a report from the MetLife Mature Market Institute® that said there are several assumptions that the older job seeker has about the job search. They call them the Significant Seven, or “Seven Mistakes That Keep Aging Boomers Unemployed”. The same report says that there are five “keys” to success for older workers. They are:

1. Acknowledge the new realities of the job market: Yes, there is age discrimination but deal with it. Realistically assess the local employment market and go from there. Identify the growing or stable industries (food, transportation, energy, healthcare, and accounting do well during difficult times). Look for organizations that are respectful (check retirementjobs.com and ARRP Best Employers for Workers Over 50). Research small and medium sized companies as these will value your experience and skill set.

2. Reframe your expectations to demonstrate your future value: Identify and articulate the specific value you can bring to the workplace while simultaneously recognizing that your underlying skill set must be constantly evolving. Most importantly, be aware of your skills, values and passions and be able to articulate how these can have an impact on the future of the company.

3. Nurture your network: Nurture your network to cut through the electronic application process and the age bias. Align your passions and skills to similar people, volunteer, or speak at various events in your field. Realize that networking isn’t always about finding a job; it is about developing relationships. Spend time with people in their twenties and thirties.

4. Update your computer/technical skills: Catch up on technology and update your relevant skills. Not doing so gives hiring managers another reason to screen you out and supports the fact that you will not fit into the culture.

5. Do the Math then manage your ambivalence: Consider your future financial needs and as they relate to your “need” vs. “want” to work. Some people in this age group have a waning urge or ambivalence to work but this must be balanced by understanding and seriously planning for the future. The article states that older job seekers may be more successful if they are absolutely clear about their financial needs.

You can read more of the study at Buddy, Can You Spare a Job?

Writing a Resume

2011-07-13T14:44:00.004-04:00

I'm writing a few resumes today. They are all requests from people who attended my resume writing classes. Just as I do in the class, these folks complete a worksheet listing preferred skills and competencies, strengths and weaknesses. The form also asks for specific examples of measurable results within the skill and competency areas. This is where people get lost.

One thing that people almost always have trouble with is identifying their measurable results. They do have them because everyone has them. They just don't mention them unless I ask them this question, "Looking at this particular area, what impact did what you did have on the organization?" Then we move to the next area and I ask the same question. We do this until we get to the end of the worksheet and when we are done we have a list of measurable accomplishments.

Of all the resumes that I have reviewed, approximately 90% of them read like a job description and that's not a good thing. People as a whole don't like to brag but when you're competing with hundreds of people for one coveted position, you need to shake off the modesty. If you find yourself with a resume that looks like a job description, go through it line by line and ask yourself how this “task”, “project”, “activity”, etc. impacted the business. I am pretty certain that you are going to sharpen your resume writing skills.

A Look at the Unemployment Numbers

2011-07-08T10:58:00.004-04:00

When my position was eliminated in June of 2008, I was concerned because the unemployment number was 5.6%. Over the years that number has steadily grown and today we saw the highest number in 2011 at 9.2%. While this number isn’t the highest we have reached, (10.2% in October 2009), the numbers are concerning.
Today I went to the National Conference of State Legislatures to review the numbers over the past three years. So much has happened over the past couple of years and I don’t think people consider the overall history of the numbers. Here’s what I came up with:

National Unemployment 2008 - 2011
Highest Unemployment Rate: 10.2% in October 2009.
Lowest Unemployment Rate: 4.8% in February, 2008.
Highest Unemployment Rate in 2011: 9.2% in June, 2011.

State Unemployment January – April, 2011
Puerto Rico: 16.9% in March.
Nevada: 14.2% in January.
California: 12.4 in January.
Florida: 11.9% in January
Rhode Island: 11.3% in January
Michigan: 10.7% in January
South Carolina: 10.5% in January
Kentucky: 10.4% in January, February
Mississippi: 10.4% in January
Oregon: 10.4% in January

It doesn’t seem to be improving, what do you think the solution is?

Assumptions Made by the The Older Job Seeker

2011-07-05T09:11:00.004-04:00

I recently read a report by the MetLife Mature Market Institute® that said there are several assumptions that the older job seeker has about the job search. They call them the Significant Seven, or “Seven Mistakes That Keep Aging Boomers Unemployed”.

1. I will just do what I was doing. Many Boomers assume that they can continue doing what they did before leaving their last position. Skills and technology have changed since then. Older job seekers need to visualize themselves doing something different or using their skills in a new way.
2. My experience speaks for itself. Lots of employers would be lucky to have me. If you can’t link your skills to the employers needs then you are discounted before the interview. Older workers need to be able to explain to the hiring company how their experience can help solve problems in the future and help make that company a success.
3. I don’t have time for the touch-feely stuff about what work means to me. Older workers need to think about the value that they can bring to the workplace and reflect upon their strengths, values and passions.
4. I know! I’ll become a consultant. Many don’t take into consideration the actual skills needed to be a consultant as well as the physical demands and psychological fit.
5. Of course I’m good with computers. Re-evaluate your technical skills to see if they are relevant today. If not, don’t include them on your resume and get some training in the current technologies. See what employers are looking for today.
6. I’ll use a recruiter or some career coaching to get another job. A fresh perspective is good but unfortunately, many times the phone will stop ringing after a few weeks.
7. I’ve always been successful, so why should things be different now? Thinking that the past is the best predictor of the future isn’t going to work today. Technology, wages, and skill sets have all changed.

Next time, we’ll look at the “Five Keys to Success for Older Job Seekers” from the same report.

Job Search Apps

2011-06-23T08:52:00.005-04:00

My husband loves gadgets and the Android phone has enough apps in it to keep him happy. This morning he was showing me an application where he could scan the bar code from a Skippy Peanut Butter jar and find the various stores that stock it as well as the prices from these stores. I asked him if he would look up the apps for the term “Job Search” and sure enough, he got a screen full of job search engines and career assessment sites. From our quick scan, it looked like many of them were free, too.

Since I don’t have an Android I Googled the words “Android, apps, job search” on my computer and received pages of articles and suggested job search engines. There are customer reviews too. It seems as if Indeed.com is a good application for the Android although it doesn’t have the advanced features that the web option does.

There are apps for the iphone and Blackberry. Here are a few selections - some are free and some come with a fee.
1. iPhone: A listing of job seach apps are in the article from About.com.
2. Android: This includes the popular Linkup app.
3. Blackberry: This site lists some of the popular job search apps.

By the way, Yahoo just jumped into the water with Yahoo Apps. There us a link for it on your Yahoo navigation bar.

If you use mobile apps for job search, how is it working for for? Have you found a job?

Another Look at the Overqualified Question

2011-06-20T09:29:00.001-04:00

Since it is illegal to infer that someone is too old for a position, many hiring managers wonder out loud if a candidate may be overqualified for a particular position. In other words, “Why would you want this job when you are clearly three levels above it?” Some responses that I suggest are:

1. Ask for clarification. What do you mean? How do you define overqualified? Once you get a response, you may be better able to respond.

2. Expect it and be prepared. What is it about this job that you like or can compensate for a lower salary or lessened responsibilities? Is it closer to your home? Can you telecommute? Do you admire their corporate responsibility? Can you work an eight hour day rather than a ten hour day? How can you contribute your knowledge and background to this company in a lesser role? Can you be a mentor? Do you really mind having a lower role in the organization/how does this align with your work values?

3. Match your skills and accomplishments to the position. Focus on how your past accomplishments can align with the department/organizational goals.

Do you have any responses that have worked for you?

A Letter to the President of the US

2011-06-15T14:29:00.007-04:00

Dear Mr. President,

I wasn’t a business major in college nor did I run my early career as a business. I do however have common sense and have seen first-hand the destruction of our society by the unreasonable demands and greed of big business and a government with its head in the sand.

There are over 14 million people without real jobs. Let me say that again, fourteen million people. To put it into perspective, that is more than the number of people living in the states of New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Kansas and Arkansas combined!

I reread a speech from the Job Summit of 2009 and could see right through the smoke and mirrors. Obviously not much has happened on the job front since that speech. Then, last week at the Economic Summit, you joked of “bumps in the road” and the “headwinds” getting in the way of economic recovery. What is that supposed to mean? And why joke about it? How can almost three years go by without a hint of recovery? How can the corporations continue to make money hand over fist and many not pay taxes? How can we continually outsource our manufacturing and service groups to faraway places that barely know how to speak English? How are consumers supposed to go out and purchase goods and services when they don’t have jobs and money to spend? How does a dual income family move to one income and then no income and survive? How can unemployed couples even think about putting their kids through college? How come our leaders aren’t serious about this?

I don’t want to be political but I read on ABC News that, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney has created a web ad where he is attempting to show that the 14 million unemployed “are not just economic statistics, but are real Americans looking to support themselves and their families.” Someone has to do it – but better yet, someone has to listen.

I'm Moving On

2011-06-12T10:21:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I had lunch with two wonderful women friends. We used to work together but our jobs were eliminated due to our department's reorganization several years ago. Since then we share our lives through LinkedIn, Facebook and lunch time meetings. We met for Thai food, something that I had never tried before because of my reputation for being "bland Nan". More on that in a minute.

We visited for a while and swapped stories of our kids and pets and jobs and the recent heat. We mentioned the friendships that we have maintained with our former co-workers and lamented the ones that "got away". We finally got around to talking about our past company and the feelings we had upon being let go. All of us had a similar conclusion. We found that like so many other things in life, we moved on and life continued in the manner that was decided so long ago. All three of us discovered that we were meant for something else; a different direction that may have been difficult to navigate but is just as exciting. This morning snippets of our conversation were still in my mind; I guess that's why I can't get this Rascal Flatts song, I'm Moving On, out of my head.

This brings me back to the Thai food. It was delicious. It was the fear of change and moving out of my comfort zone that had me turn up my nose for all these years.

Life will move on after a job loss and change is so difficult. You were meant for something else. What is it?

Work Readiness Skills

2011-06-07T08:43:00.000-04:00

Now that school is winding down, or finished, the youth of our country are out in droves looking for either a summer job or a permanent spot. They are competing with the experienced workers and as we all know, the job pickings are slim. There are certain skills that employers have come to expect of its entry level employees; work readiness skills. Do you have them?

The Work Readiness Council has written a report that explains the skills needed for entry level workers in service or service related industries. The report shows that businesses from across industry sectors identified eight behaviors needed for entry-level workers to succeed in today's workplace and global economy:
1. Listen actively
2. Solve problems and make decisions
3. Cooperate with others
4. Resolve conflicts and negotiate
5. Observe critically
6. Take responsibility for learning
7. Read with understanding
8. Use math to solve problems

An interviewer may ask you questions on how you have used these skills in the past (either at school, in another position or as a volunteer). Be ready with specific examples and the results of your actions.

Please visit the Work Readiness site for additional information.

The Job Search and the Five Rules My Father Passed Along

2011-05-31T09:16:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I wrote about the five things my father taught me about life. As I look at them today, and review the various comments and news about the dismal job market, I realize that they are words to live by while job hunting.

There is no doubt in my mind that the employment market is lifeless. The jobs are lacking and the unemployed are discouraged. The anger, frustration and cynicism can be seen on any LinkedIn groups, the newspapers, and in the comments section of each article on job search tips. A growing number of unemployed renegades are out with a vengeance and are lashing out at anyone who may offer a suggestion or make a comment. Overall it’s discouraging, frustrating and a day-in day-out blow to even the strongest of constitutions.

Getting back to my Dad’s advice, here is how I see his words as they apply to the unemployment mess.

1. There is no such word as “can’t”: In other words, don’t say there is only one way to do something. Hard as it is (and I seriously know it is hard), you may have to step out of your comfort zone and job search differently. Some suggestions may be to network more or with different people, change your resume to reflect each and every job posting, telephone people rather than emailing them... your gut probably can give you some more suggestions.

2. The harder the hammering, the stronger the steel: Get punched and fall down. Get back up. The job search can feel like this on a daily basis. Sometimes it’s hard to find the good in ourselves after being knocked down so many times. You are who you are first and what your job is second.

3. The world is your oyster: It’s a big world with many possibilities. Learn new skills, take some free classes, get out and meet new people and share your passions. Share yourself with others by volunteering.

4. Treat everyone with respect: Whether it is on line or in person, respect is the Golden Rule. People that you treat kindly may reimburse you some day by remembering you and your job needs. Plus, aren’t we trying to teach our kids that bullying is wrong? Why do it as an adult?

5. Do what you love and love what you do: There are a couple of meanings here. If you love to garden, go outside and blow some steam off. If you love to sing, dance, exercise, write, paint, volunteer… do it. Keep busy and do something else besides job search. There are 24 hours in a day and while many of them should be used for the job search, use some of the others for you and your family. The other meaning here is to figure out what type of career you are passionate about by thinking of your skills, values and personality. Take an assessment and brainstorm people/ways to possible pursue that avenue.

Anything else? Let me know and I'll add it.

Memorial Day and my Dad

2011-05-30T08:58:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day has been seared into my heart because of my Dad. He was a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army who piloted Search and Rescue missions over “The Hump” of China, Burma and India during World War II and later on worked in Army Intelligence during the Cold War. He often said that his place in life was to serve God, country and his family. I hated being number three on the list but over the years learned to live with it. My father died on a Memorial Day seventeen years ago; it wasn’t happenstance that was the day he left us. That was his way, his choice and it certainly made sense, given how he lived his life.

My father showed me the world; whether we were stationed in Heidelberg, Germany or Eatontown, NJ. Every place was an adventure. He was the one who taught me how to fold the American flag, make a bed so a quarter would bounce and to stop whatever I was doing, stand up and place my hand over my heart whenever I heard the National Anthem. I was his “Monkey”, and his lessons have made me who I am. He said:

1. There is no such word as “can’t”.

2. The harder the hammering, the stronger the steel.

3. The world is your oyster.

4. Treat everyone with respect.

5. Do what you love and love what you do.

I learned that my dad would take three minute power naps while waiting for takeoff clearance on the narrow landing strips in the jungles of Burma. He told me that he did that because he was nervous. He also lovingly placed the letters and pictures of his nieces in the cockpit with him for good luck. Today, somewhere in Afghanistan or Iraq, there is a brave serviceman or woman doing a similar thing. I thank them for their service, for following in my Dad’s footsteps and for keeping us safe and free.

Handling Various Job Search Situations Part 1

2011-05-23T21:02:00.000-04:00

I gave a resume preparation and interviewing class this past Saturday in a local community center. It was the first nice day this area has seen in weeks and sure enough the rains came back on Sunday. I didn’t think that too many people would come because it was a beautiful day and it was a free class. Given those odds, it would have been me and the program organizer sharing the platter of a dozen sandwiches. Much to my surprise, a nice sized group came in and they ranged in age from 15 through the mid-forties. They were all ready to either start or get back into the job market and wanted to know what to do. My time with them flew and I was humbled by their stories. Some were just getting started (the 15 year old) and others had been affected by serious illness or another disabilities and were concerned that they would be turned away because of the number of years between them and their last jobs. It seems that the average time away from work with this group was around four years and they were surprised to learn how dramatically the job search scene had changed in that short time. Here are some of their questions. How would you answer them?

1. How do I explain being a stay at home mom?

2. Will a company lose interest in me because I left my former job on disability?

3. How do I explain that I left my former company on bad terms?

4. Most companies want experience but I can’t get it unless someone hires me. How or where can I get it?

5. As a high school student I like to write. Other than school work, where can I get more practice writing?

Finding Employment After a Conviction

2011-05-22T12:37:00.000-04:00

The other day I was asked if I knew of any resources for finding employment after serving out a conviction. Here are some helpful links.

1. A CNBC Article on finding employment after serving out a sentence. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24428747/

2.America Works has locations throughout the United States. http://www.americaworks.com/mericaworks.com/

3. An article and video from eHow Money:http://www.ehow.com/video_4908852_employment-ex_cons.html

4. A series of articles from Love to Know and other sources are at:

http://jobs.lovetoknow.com/Ex-Convicts_Search_for_Employment

5. A blog of articles and resources for ex offenders is: http://jailtojob.com/wordpress/

Some other sites include The Sentencing Project and the Legal Action Center.

Confusing Resume Jargon

2011-05-21T09:38:00.005-04:00

The other night on LinkedIn there was a lot of talk about the pros and cons of using a professional resume writer. One LinkedIn group member was angry about the jargon and tasks associated with writing a resume and wrote a heated entry expressing his frustration. His comments reaffirmed the fact that if you don’t keep up with the new trends in the whole job search process; it’s easy to get lost in the jargon. He had issues with the newer phrasing that not only professional resume writers are using but also the actual words that have become common place and are thrown around by all job seekers. Some of these common job search phrases include:

Tailoring Your Resume

Measurable Accomplishments

Skill Set

Tailoring Your Resume – Tailoring is aligning what you did in your past job (or as a volunteer or member of a professional group) to the wording in the job posting. A friend of mine defined it beautifully with, "Words are indeed a suit of clothes; we put them 'on' to express ourselves precisely." If a posting says that you must negotiate, then your resume better show your accomplishments in negotiation. You should (must) tailor or rewrite your resume for every job that interests you.

Measurable Accomplishments – Everyone has measurable job accomplishments. These are specific metrics; the “how much”, “how many”, “ahead of schedule”, “exceeding client expectations” of your job. They can include percentages, savings, customer satisfaction numbers, etc. To find them, you’ll need to examine your Skill Set (see below) and figure out where you exceeded the expectations for your position. Think, “Where was I great and why?” If possible, think about your past annual goals or performance appraisals ratings.

Skill Set- The term skill set refers to the six or so areas that are your strengths. They should be a combination of your job-specific skills and soft skills. To find them, write out your tasks (both professional and as a volunteer or member of a professional group). Next, put a check mark next to the tasks that you enjoy doing. Of those checked, rate your skill level (high, medium or low). Finally, identify six skills that you rated as both enjoyable and highly skilled. This is your skill set.

Like everything in life, change is inevitable and this applies to the job search too. Technology, processes, key words, software scanning systems and so much more have taken what was once a difficult and draining process a step further. Unfortunately, if we don’t go with it (or at least try), someone else will win the golden ticket.
(Post Edited May 22, 2011)

The SMART Resume

2011-05-16T13:56:00.004-04:00

Did you ever have to write out your annual goals while working for an organization? If you did, chances are you were asked to make them SMART; Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely. You can use this for creating your resume too. Let’s look at an example.

I ask: "What do you do?"

You say:"I am a learning and development specialist."

I ask: What do you do in that job?"

You say: I create training programs for my clients.”

I ask: "So what?"

You say: "So what? This is a huge undertaking..."

I ask: "That's what I'm saying, "so what" does it involve and how have you made a difference in your former company?"

And so it goes. You need to ask yourself, "So what?" for everything you put into your résumé to make it SMART. If you don't, your resume will sound like a job description and will be tossed in the trash. Like a SMART goal, your resume statements need to be SPECIFIC and MEASURABLE (remember data) and you have to constantly ask yourself about the results of your efforts (the So What?). Keep in mind the timely aspects of your achievements and if anything went above and beyond the scope of your position.

Let's look at the Learning and Development example again. Instead of saying “I create learning and development programs for clients”, the “So What?” can include the following questions:

WHO are your clients? 4000 global and domestic clients in the financial services industry.

WHAT do you create? Employee development programs including performance management, coaching, employee development.

WHAT does this involve? Assess, design, development, implementation, media selection, and evaluation.

WHAT were the results? 98% retention and 96% job satisfaction on internal employee satisfaction survey.

WHEN: According to project schedule

WHY: To increase employee engagement and retention.

Then put it together:

Led the Financial Services department in the design, development and implementation of a worldwide employee engagement and performance management initiative. This model was the global standard used within the organization and resulted in 98% employee retention and 96% employee satisfaction. Responsibilities included assessing employee and management needs via gap analysis, program design and development, vendor management, program implementation and measurement.

See the difference? If you use the SMART acronym for each of your position responsibilities as well as the "So What?" analogy, you'll be well on your way to creating a stronger, focused resume.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

2011-05-14T09:14:00.000-04:00

This is a reposting of a blog from several months ago.

Last night a friend asked me if I could suggest some dynamic questions that she might comfortably ask a Vice President on her second job interview. She did the leg work and studied up on the company and had some questions of her own but just wanted to bounce some ideas off of me.

As we got to talking, we went over the three major areas that a company wants to learn about you. If there is a good match, you are that much closer to getting the job!

1. Can you do the job?

2. Do you fit into the company culture?

3. Do you want this job?

Can you do this job?

This is the regular interviewing discussion about your skill sets and measurable accomplishments. We’ve talked about these before; you’ll need to review the key words in the job description and tie them to your accomplishments. Be prepared with specific examples of your past behaviors and accomplishments.

Can you fit into the company culture?

Your knowledge of the company, major competitors, recent news articles, key executives and company values will show that you have done your homework and have an understanding of the company. Your responses and questions will help solidify your fit into the organization.

Do you want this job?

This is obvious but your punctuality, attire, preparation, motivation and body language along with your knowledge of the company and your responses to the interviewer’s questions will convey your desire to do the job. These, along with your specific questions for them can help translate your enthusiasm and eagerness to work for this organization.

Don’t save your questions for the end of the interview. An interview is a two-way conversation and your questions may naturally come up in the interview. Here is a sample list of questions that I gave to my friend. Like her, you may want to tailor them to your needs. You can change them to suit the level of the person with whom you are interviewing. For example:

1. What are the short and long term goals of this department?

2. What are the short and long term goals of the organization?

These questions along with more detail on interviewing techniques can be found in my book, Job Search for Moms.

a. What are the short and long term goals of the company?
b. What is the vision of the department?
c. What is the company environment like?
d. What concerns need to be addressed immediately?
e. What do you see happening with this position for the next 3 to 6 months?
f. What are the particular attributes needed to succeed in this job?
g. What are the challenges a person coming to this job will face?

Another Resume Resource

2011-05-11T08:57:00.002-04:00

Last night one of my friends came over to work with me on designing her resume. She has a lot of experience in documentation but I didn't quite understand what that meant. After much questioning and asking for examples, I got an idea of what she does. This morning I reviewed our notes, sat down to write her resume but forgot some of the detail. I figured that I would turn to the Occupational Outlook Handbook for guidance in case I needed more descriptive words. Just for fun (fun?) I entered her job title into Yahoo Search to see what came up and found this great, easy to read resource; EHow™ Money. What a find!

Here's how it works. In the Search area, enter your job title and the words "job description" (Accountant Job Description or Training Manager Job Description) and you'll get a wealth of descriptive information. It's a great site to add to your resume writing tool collection (Occupational Outlook Handbook, various job search engines such as Indeed.com and Monster.com). Why go crazy trying to figure out what to write? By taking this information and tailoring it to include your specific accomplishments and measurements, you'll be well on your way to creating a specific, focused resume.

Employee vs. Consultant

2011-05-10T16:43:00.001-04:00

When I was working for a company there was one thing that bothered me. Why would a company spend tons of money to bring in an outside consultant to do something that an existing employee could do (and want to do)? It used to frustrate me to no end. So many times as employees we are expected to put out fires, do the needed and the necessary and rarely have time to learn, train and develop. Then, when an opportunity arises, it is passed along to the outsider.

Now, I am the consultant and believe me, I am enjoying being the subject matter expert. I love that a client calls me at any time and asks my opinion on how to handle a certain situation or solve a particular problem. It is so refreshing to be looked at as knowledgeable and capable. It is a whole new world but something that I, like so many other people, know I was capable of doing at my former place of work.

If you are employed and want to get noticed and given more responsibilities, I suggest doing the following:

1. Volunteer to research a new process or method that will impact productivity in your department.
2. Ask for a mentor who is a level or two above you and ask that mentor for a truthful opinion on your business image and skills. Listen, learn and make changes.
3. Learn. Don't say that you don't have time to take any training. You need to grow and learn all there is about your position, new skills or methods to increase performance. Then you need to meet with your manager and ask to implement one or two of these.
4. Read up on your field and find out what's new, what's out and be able to speak knowledgably about these. This is so important.

What's curious about the current recession/unemployment crisis is that so many people who thought they were secure in their positions were blind-sided when they were released. Make yourself a commodity in your business by staying fresh. The worst thing that can happen is job loss. The best thing that can happen is staying on top of your field and being known as an expert.

What Do You Really Want To Do?

2011-05-09T11:36:00.000-04:00

The other night I gave a presentation on career and personal excellence to a group of lovely women from the Dress for Success organization of Mercer County, NJ. One woman in the meeting asked a question about my career; learning and development. As a temporary worker in a human resources department she was interested in the field and wanted to know how I broke into it. After going through the ins and outs of my first few jobs and the qualifications/job requirements needed to break in, she got a funny look on her face. She said, "I've done training but I never thought that those sessions counted for anything. In fact, it's not even on my resume." Wow #1.

Yes, I said, they do count and they count for a lot. It turns out that this woman has given several small group sessions within her church and her former place of business on a number of communication topics. She also heard a rumor that a graduate degree is a definite requirement for entry into the Learning & Development field. She never checked out the facts, just assumed it was true and never looked further into a career that she thought she might really enjoy. Wow #2.

The interesting thing is that this woman is not alone. I've often heard similar comments in my job search sessions. Other than challenging yourself to dare to dream, the advice I share is this:

1. Know your value. Inventory your skill set, strengths, weaknesses and everything in between.
2. Research the requirements of the particular jobs in which you are interested and see if there is a match. Look at the Occupational Outlook Handbook and pull up the jobs in several popular job search engines like Indeed.com or Monster.com. Read the requirements for many similar sounding jobs.
3. Network: Schedule an informational interview with people in your field of interest and make sure one of your questions is, "Do you think that I have the skill set to step into a position like this?"
4. Volunteer. Develop your current skills or learn new skills as a volunteer and add these to your resume.
5. Identify your Transferable Skills: Consider your entire work and volunteer history and make sure to include the skills, knowledge or behaviors that you picked up.
6. Don't ever think that you're not good enough. Enough said.

I am happy to report that the woman in the session planned to go back home and think about her background, the trainings she presented in the past and plan the next steps. I can't wait to hear how she does.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T13:08:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all!

Using Facebook for Your Job Search

2011-05-04T09:22:00.001-04:00

The other night I gave a Networking training session as part of a job search series at a local library. With the unemployment rate still so high and the percentage of jobs found through networking (over 85%) soaring as well, networking is still the very best way to find a job.

One of the topics tackled was using social media to network. It’s interesting; since the class participants ranged in age from the 20s to retirement, I could tell from the body language who was comfortable using it and who would rather network the old-fashioned way. Once we looked at some of the statistics though, it started to sink in. According to a 2011 survey from Jobvite, Inc., this year 80% of the companies’ surveyed plan to recruit through social networking. Add to that, the very low percent of success of finding a job through job boards, well…. it makes sense to jump on the social media train. Let’s look at Facebook. How can you find a job on Facebook? Here are a couple of hints.

1. Tell your contacts that you are looking. If you announce that you are looking for a specific type of position in your status line, you are going to get many comments back from your pool of contacts. Also ask your friends to tell their friends. Clean up your profile, add contact information and update your friends on your progress. By the way, I looked at the number of contacts that the average person in their twenties has. The average number ranges between 500 and 1000! That’s a lot of friends which may equate to a lot of networking contacts.

2. Start a professional Facebook group and refer your contacts and their contacts to it. Here you can include a link to your LinkedIn profile and your other professional information (such as any blogs that you may have created). Add links to interesting articles in your field and encourage discussion with these. NOTE: Facebook group comments can be found in a Google search so make sure the content is ALWAYS professional.

3. Look for contacts by typing in the company name. You may find company pages, groups and general information containing names.

4. Look for job specific groups: Look for your job type and “Like” that group. Comment, ask questions and let them know that you are looking for a position.

5. Search for employment agencies.

6. Create a Facebook Ad: For a fee, you can create an advertisement about you and your strengths/skill set.

Anything else? Please add to the list. What has worked for you?

Networking at the Wedding

2011-05-02T17:04:00.002-04:00

Networking. Give me a break; do I have to network all of the time? Well, if you want a job you do.

Case in point. This weekend the son of my very dear college friends was married. It was a wonderful, beautiful affair. The cocktail hour offered time to eat, drink and smooze with new and old friends. You know how it is. When you share a table with perfect strangers the conversation usually starts with how you know the bride or groom and then turns to where you are from and what you do. You don't have to use your entire, professional elevator speech here but you can mention that after working at such and such for ten years, you, like so many others were downsized. You are now in the market for a new position doing such and such. It can sound like this, "After working in human resources at the Smith Company for ten years, my position was eliminated. I've been looking for a similar position in the metropolitan area."

You can leave it at that but most likely the conversation will continue and you might end up making a networking connection. The same thing works when you move to the dining room. Yes, it can work; just don't go overboard.

Interviewing Tip

2011-04-25T10:35:00.000-04:00

Here is a great interviewing tip. It was in the article, Job Interview? 9 Great Tips to Get You to Round 2 by Amy Levin-Epstein.

"The interview is coming to a close, but make sure you stick your landing, says Roberta Chinksy Matuson, President of Human Resource Solutions and author of Suddenly in Charge: Managing Up, Managing Down, Succeeding All Around. “Always end the conversation with the following question: ‘Is there anything about my background that gives you concern?’” says Matuson. Now you’ve bought yourself a bonus round to derail any doubts."

Easter Message

2011-04-24T10:04:00.001-04:00

As today is Easter Sunday, a quote from Jesus seems appropriate. “Forgive them Father for they know not what they do.” It is this sentence that entered my mind as I read today’s paper. After first reading about the vicious attack on a transgender woman in a Maryland McDonalds, I was equally appalled by the ignorant remarks of various readers in the ‘Comments” section. Where did the cruelty come from? This woman was beaten and spit upon by teenage girls and then entire thing was captured on the video phone of the restaurant manager who did absolutely nothing to help. If not for the assistance of an older woman, the victim could have been more seriously injured. I then read about the charges against the roommate of Tyler Clementi, the Rutgers University Freshman, who after his roommate used a secret webcam to spy on him and another man in an intimate moment, killed himself by jumping from the George Washington Bridge. The roommate, Dharun Raviin used Twitter to invite people to watch. His smarmy comments have made my stomach drop. Rather than face his hateful actions, he has tried to delete his social media messages in an effort to erase the evidence. He is a coward.

Both these stories sicken me and make me wonder about the direction, ethics, mindset, upbringing, etc of many people in all corners of our country. When, better yet why did so many become so bitter and biting?

“Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do.” How can they not know what they do?

Common Resume and Interviewing Errors

2011-04-21T10:38:00.000-04:00

The other day I was asked to list a couple of obvious job search errors; specifically for resume writing and interviewing. Here are the very common ones. Can you come up with a few more?

Resume

1. Using the same resume for every job posting. Instead, tailor your resume and cover letter to each and every opening and use the key words found in the job description.

2. The resume that contains format, grammatical and spelling errors. It is surprising, given the software tools we have that people fail to use the spell and grammar checkers. Job seekers also need a real person to review theirs resumes for common errors and content.

Interviews

1. Lack of preparation: This covers two areas; not being prepared with examples of real-life accomplishments of past behavior and not having thoughtful, meaningful questions for the interviewer.

2. Inappropriate questions: The interviewee should never, ever inquire about salary, benefits, or vacation during the initial interview. Should the hiring company approach the subject then it is appropriate to respond.

3. Dress: Not dressing appropriately for an interview is a major detractor. LinkedIn, the internet and other means of social media will allow anyone to learn of the business culture of any organization. Find out the dress code and dress up a notch higher.

Finally, every interviewee should send a thank you note to the interviewers. Both electronic and paper versions should be used. Not only is this a common courtesy but it allows the the interviewer to add a sentence or two highlighting his or her fit with the organization which in turn, allow the interviewer to remember the individual.

The Informational Interview

2011-04-20T08:45:00.000-04:00

An informational interview can mean two different things. One type refers to an interview for information about a potential new career. It is a very helpful tool if you are thinking about a possible career change and are looking for some information about a particular field or company. Another informational interview is a collaborative discussion between you and a company representative. It is a type of "feeling each other out" type of scenario. The company may or may not have any openings but may be able to create one based upon your credentials and match (and who you know). This second type of informational interview is not unusual and it happens quite often in a company.

Since informational interviews are usually the result of networking contacts, it is important for you to let everyone know that you are available and are open to discussions. A good place to start is with your family members, friends, neighbors, volunteer acquaintances, former peers, managers, vendors and career networking groups. Another source consists of the people you know from professional organizations and those that you may have met at various trainings or conferences. Tell them that you are looking for work and ask them for the names of people that you can contact. Enlist their support by giving them a copy of your resume (paper and electronic) and ask them to forward it or better yet, hand deliver it to the contact with a note on your qualifications.

Whatever level position you are, there are several steps to follow in the informational interview:

1. Do your homework on the company. Read up on new products, services, mergers, changes within the organization.

2. Ask questions, provide examples of your accomplishments*

3. Be aware and considerate of time constraints.

4. Follow up with a thank you note.

*Depending on the type of informational interview, your questions will vary.

I've posted several articles about informational interviewing in the past and they include some examples of the types of questions you may want to ask.

Nancy Range Anderson

2011-04-15T13:31:00.001-04:00

Nancy Range Anderson, a photo by pplflickr on Flickr.

Local Independent Authors Day. March, 2011.

A Novel Way to Respond to an Interview Question

2011-04-15T11:31:00.000-04:00

Interviewing - we're taught how to answer the questions with behavioral STAR (Specific, Task, Actions, Results) stories and to ask just the "right" questions. Take a look at this great article in Jibber Jobber on taking your interview responses a step further. It is something to think about and practice.
For more information on behavioral interviewing and the types of questions to ask in an interview, please take a look at some of the archived blogs right here.

Career Transition

2011-04-13T23:11:00.004-04:00

I just read this quote from a friend on my Facebook page and thought of the many people who are going through difficult times; especially with job loss. With me, I at first felt sorry for myself. As a person who has always thought that things happen for a reason though, I wondered what this new "adventure" would mean. I would soon learn that there was a purpose for me and for that I will be forever grateful.

“With everything that has happened to you, you can either feel sorry for yourself or treat what has happened as a gift. Everything is either an opportunity to grow or an obstacle to keep you from growing. You get to choose.” - Dr. Wayne Dyer

What about you? How do you look at the transition that may be occurring in your life?

Interview Turnoffs

2011-04-11T10:01:00.005-04:00

What can kill a great interview? Here are a few that I can think of. Can you add to it?

1. Failing to be prepared with specific examples of your skill set including your measurable accomplishments. These should be related to the job requirements that are stated in the open position.

2. Neglecting to research the company and prepare questions related to both the company and the open position. The following questions are helpful:

3. Leaving your common sense at home by:

a Wearing to much cologne or hairspray

b. Chewing gum

c. Forgetting to turn off your cell phone (not on vibrate).

d. Arriving late or too early.

e. Using words such as “like” or ending your responses in, “you know” or in a questioning
tone.

f. Avoiding eye contact.

g. Extending a weak hand shake

4. Bad mouthing your former company, manager or co-workers.

5. Bringing up discussion around salary or benefits in without being prompted.

Tips for the College Grad

2011-04-07T15:58:00.000-04:00

Usually this time of year I think back to my graduation from college. It was a whirl of exams, student teacher evaluations and parties. Those four years of preparing for my future passed by in a flash. The next thing I knew I was creating my resume and sending it to every elementary school I could think of.

Times have changed but the hopes and dreams of new college graduates haven’t. What can a recent college graduate do if he or she doesn't have a lot of work experience? Here are some thoughts...

Many times recent graduates focus on grades or internships and discount any other activities or former jobs. While experience and grades are important, an area that few consider is their "transferable job skills". When preparing a resume or for an interview, college students should also highlight the skills, knowledge or behaviors that they developed as a member of a team, group, volunteer organization or from a summer or part-time job. Considering the tasks involved in any of these activities may reveal any number of leadership, teamwork, communication, project management, or organization skills; all highly valued in today’s workplace and highly transferable.

For example, I assisted a recent graduate develop a resume that was focused on an entry level marketing position. While he had a short term internship as a marketing/communication professional, he never realized that as a summer camp counselor he had also developed a number of critical skills that could be transferred to a business career. As a counselor he was responsible for organizing a flag football team for thirty campers. In this role he ordered equipment, budgeted, planned, scheduled, advertised and counseled his team. By including these skills, along with his specific accomplishments related to them on his resume, he was granted an interview and subsequently received a job offer.

Take a good look at your skill set, especially your transferable skills. These will help get you in the job market.

Sunday Morning Fun (Song Included!)

2011-04-03T11:59:00.002-04:00

Everyone has a bad day at work. The kind of day where you want to scream, "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!" When one of those days (and they really weren't that often) happened to come along, I would have this wacky fantasy. In it, I would have just won the Powerball lottery, hijack the company intercom system and play this song. That fantasy gave me a laugh. It never happened like that but I still smile when I think about it.

How about you, what is your work related fantasy?

Career Planning Is Like Joining a Gym

2011-03-29T12:01:00.002-04:00

In January I decided that enough was enough and that it was time to join the local gym. As an incentive, the gym offered a free session with one of their personal trainers. I went for it and wound up buying two months of training sessions with a wonderful, inspiring trainer. My sessions ended yesterday but I will continue to do the exercises and routines that my trainer guided me through; difficult as they were/are.

What does going to the gym have to do with your job search (other than make you feel and look younger and give you more energy)? I can think of several things.

1. Get out. Losing a job or going through all the mind numbing effort of finding a new one is exhausting. Take a break and try to look at things in a different light.

2. Evaluate. Before starting my training I was evaluated for any medical or physical issues. My body size and weight were measured and I set up a goal. With a job search, evaluation is an important first step and should include your career path, needs, strengths, weaknesses and wants. You will also need to establish a goal so that you have something to work towards.

3. Get into a routine. At the gym I started with a warm up on the tread mill or elliptical machines. Then I went over to the weights and the resistance machines. Establish a routine with your job search. Set aside some time to network, make your calls, and review the internet for opportunities.

4. Step out of your comfort zone. Ouch - this is such a difficult step. If in the gym, you continued to use the lighter weights and didn't feel any discomfort, what would your results be? Sure you might be a bit firmer in places but if you really want to make a difference you have to graduate to heavier weights or more repetitions. The same hold true with the job search. It is easier to apply for jobs on line and then keep your fingers crossed for a bite. It is harder to network or call on some of your contacts. Networking can result in 80- 85% more jobs so that's something to think about.

5. Learn. Sometimes I felt uncoordinated and clumsy when using some of the equipment. At times, my body just didn't want to cooperate. With a job search, it helps to attend training or review the latest job search techniques via social media. Check out your local library for free career planning sessions or join a networking group. As far as social media goes, this can relate to #4 above. You need to learn it even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.

Like exercise, finding a job takes time, patience and a lot of practice. It can be painful at first but rewarding in the long run.

Great Resource for Baby Boomers

2011-03-28T11:43:00.000-04:00

If you are from the Baby Boomer generation, a great resource for job search assistance to myboomer2boomer.com. A recent feature within the site is Re-Invention Connection, a column devoted to Baby Boomers who have reinvented themselves. This week, Blackbird Learning Associates was featured in the Re-Invention Connection. Please take a look and tell me what you think. There are a number of very interesting career reinvention stories. Boomer2boomer has a wealth of information for the Baby Boomers among us.

On Pursuing Your Dream Job

2011-03-27T22:42:00.003-04:00

My son turns 18 years old tomorrow. He is getting ready to graduate from high school and move on to college; then who knows what direction he will take. Every year, on the eve of his birthday I write him a letter. We call it the birthday love letter and it is a recap of the year. It includes events, friends, dates and a mother’s proclamation of love and pride. Both of my children get a Birthday Love Letter and it has become a tradition that they actually look forward to and is the first thing they open on their birthdays.

As I prepare to write my letter today, I think about what may be in store for my son. He has a focus and knows that he wants to pursue a career in the music industry; something he has wanted since he learned to play the guitar in the fifth grade. Did you know what you wanted when you were eighteen? I sure didn't.

If you could do it all again, would you choose the path you have taken? Maybe. In Job Search for Moms, I wrote a piece on going after your dream.

Never underestimate the value of your dreams and aspirations when starting a job search or considering a career change. Unfortunately, many of us question our own abilities and skills or we discount our dreams due to our daily responsibilities or negative thoughts. We often listen to the opinions of others and this too keeps us from following a path that we had once envisioned. In order to realistically look at your interests, visualize a star.

In the center of the star, state your aspiration or dream. What is it that you have always thought about doing? No one is looking over your shoulder; just jot down that one career that you always dreamed of doing. The top point of the star is your support system; those people, places, and ideas that can help and sustain you. List the names of those people or organizations who can offer assistance through child or family care, guidance, emotional encouragement or any other support. The remaining four points of the star are the skills, competencies, training, and actions needed to make your dream a reality. You can establish these pieces by reviewing your personal and professional skills. What skills and competencies do you have that you can apply to your dream job? What skills and competencies do you need to develop? You will also need to research the training options and action steps needed to explore your career aspirations. Much of this data can be found by visiting your library or local college, speaking with your mentor or a career counselor but you can also start your search on the internet. Then map it and set your goals.

Sometimes re-evaluating your career direction and focus is a refreshing change from your day-to-day job search efforts. Even if you don't wind up pursuing your dream job, the activities within this exercise allow you to focus on your support system, your skills, knowledge and abilities and your overall direction. It gets the wheels turning.

Happy Birthday Christian, may all your dreams come true.

LinkedIn Survey About Resumes

2011-03-26T11:56:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I participated in a LinkedIn survey about the length, style and of course, content of a resume. The results and comments are here. Take a look.

The comments are very interesting. The creator of the survey summarized them and a couple of themes emerged:
1. Length is also very important with 2 pages being ideal -
2. Accomplishments are the key to demonstrating whether or not a candidate "can" do the job or has actually "done" it previously - this is a huge difference -
3. If a candidate is unable to articulate their experience in a concise, compelling & memorable manner, how well will they communicate to others in the organization?

What do you think? What is the most important part of a resume?

Private vs. Public Job Search

2011-03-25T09:05:00.000-04:00

A woman in one of my job search classes recently asked me to compare the differences in the process for applying for a federal versus a private sector job. Good question. As I have applied for federal positions in the past, I knew it to be more specific and complicated than that of a private sector position. One area that remains the same in both sectors is to define the key competencies; the skills, knowledge and behaviors necessary for the job. When applying for a federal position they are known as SKA or skills, knowledge and abilities. With either the private or public job applications you must be prepared to list and speak about these skills and behaviors. (One of the major exercises we do in every job search class is to identify these competencies and prepare specific, measurable examples to support them.)

Applying for a federal position is a time consuming and exact process. The forms required are longer and as an applicant you must follow the instructions precisely. I found a couple of sources to assist you if you'd like to pursue it further. One, written by Career ProPlus offers an easy to follow step by step explanation of the process and the necessary forms and format. The second written by the Partnership for Public Service also explains the steps, terminology and points you to the websites for finding federal opportunities.

Two Great Articles About the Job Search

2011-03-22T08:28:00.000-04:00

I read two very interesting articles today about the job search. One was about the top 20 new trends in resume writing and job search and was written by Brenda Bernstein from The Essay Expert. The second article provided some insight into why people aren't being hired and was written by John Heckers of the Heckers Development Group, LTD. His piece is in CAREEREALISM.

I found both articles on Twitter, a rich resource of interesting job search articles.

How Does the SPCA Do It?

2011-03-21T12:53:00.002-04:00

I follow the Monmouth County SPCA on Facebook. After all, my very first dog, a Springer Spaniel named Rebel came from that special place back when I was in the fifth grade. Over the years I have checked in, but since I don't live in the area anymore it's been difficult to keep up. Lately though, through Facebook, I can see the amazing love they give to their charges on a daily basis.

Today I read a post that over the weekend, twenty five animals were adopted. Those are really good odds and the new pets now have wonderful homes. How do they do it? I think a lot of it comes from the way the staff expertly uses social media. They have Facebook, Twitter and YouTube accounts and a great website that rates each pet based upon many factors including temperament and energy level.

Every day the Facebook followers (all 6,443 of us) get to see a variety of pictures of cats and dogs, all with names and a story. The pictures are posted and then the comments pour in. I wouldn't be surprised if after seeing a picture, someone gets in the car and drives right over there to adopt a special pet. In addition to this, an SPCA staff member answers any questions that may come up in the comments section and encourages people to call in with any specific concerns.

Like the SPCA, anyone looking to get back into the job market should also make use of social media. We've talked about it in previous articles and it doesn't hurt to repeat.

1. Join LinkedIn and create a complete account. Join groups, ask and answer questions. Let it be known that you are a subject matter expert.
2. Get a Twitter account and link it to your LinkedIn page. Follow the job search, interviewing, resume and TweetMyResume pages.
3. Post a professional picture on all of your social media accounts.
4. Start a blog and provide articles about your professional expertise. Link that to your Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn accounts.
5. Take a cue from some of the sites that you follow; what do they do that draws in a crowd?

All of us, like the folks over at the Monmouth County SPCA can draw attention to our strengths by using social media; how have you used it? By the way, in the 20 minutes that I used to create this blog, they got another follower.

Spring Flowers and Job Growth

2011-03-19T10:46:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I think that I will run out of job search tips or that perhaps you have heard them all. Then suddenly something hits me. This morning as I was putting something into my car I looked around at the yard. We have had a tough winter here in the North East; the snows came in December and just kept on coming. I looked at the twigs and branches that had fallen and hoped that the weather would hold so that we can begin the clean up. Then, something caught my eye; the daffodils, tulips and snow bells were pushing out of the ground - the very ground that we never got a chance to rake up before the snows hit. There they were, piercing through the leaves that covered them as they stretched upwards. How resilient, I thought. They don’t let anything stand in their way of growing. Then I thought of how this could relate to a job search (after all, that’s why we’re here!).

Discouragement, roadblocks, the endless search for the elusive job is taxing but maybe we can learn something from the spring flowers.

1. Make a job search goal on Monday morning and stick to it. Make it SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely). Whether it is to call three people in your network, apply to six company website openings, create a LinkedIn profile, just do it. Next Friday afternoon, review your goals, revise them as necessary and then relax.

2. Discouragement is natural in a job search and it takes quite a bit of physical and emotional effort. If it is concerning though, speak to someone or visit your doctor.

3. Network. All of those flowers didn’t push up by themselves. They were in clusters and it was the strength of the group that pushed the leaves out of the way.

4. Ask for help. Later today I’ll go outside and clean up the flower beds and give the flowers room to grow without a mess. Ask for help, let people know that you are looking for work and you’ll be surprised at the assistance you receive. Make use of your support group.

Enjoy the weekend, take a look at the flowers around you and perhaps you can think of another way that nature reminds us to keep going.

On Opening a Business

2011-03-14T17:59:00.003-04:00

This past Saturday I was a guest on a radio show to talk about my book and to discuss some of the ways people can increase their chances of being hired. Towards the end of the show we talked about becoming an entrepreneur and some of my thoughts on the startup steps for beginning that new adventure. I thought of six steps and there are many more.....please add to the list.

1. Focus on one product or service. To start, don't think that you can be all things to all people. What is that one "thing" where you shine and are highly accomplished? That is what you aim towards.

2. Research. Go to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook and look up the service you are offering and read the statistics. The same holds true for a product. Do research and investigate the projections and data. Is this something that can provide a need in years to come?

3. Create a business plan. Research business plans on the internet and get a free template. Fill in the data and refine it as necessary.

4. Schedule an appointment at the Small Business Administration Office. This service is available and many times they located in a community college or other local source. Bring your business plan and be prepared to work. This is one of the best kept secrets around and they are invaluable in their suggestions, services and resources.

5. Create an online presence. Invest in an internet site, create a Facebook business page and Twitter account. Make sure that your wording and photographs are professional and enticing.

6. Join some social networking groups for entrepreneurs and business owners, join your local Chamber of Commerce, and investigate how to create a press release. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and some other sites have several supportive and informative groups for start up and existing businesses.

Please add your ideas and any sites that you have found to be helpful to your business. Opening a business is thrilling yet can be overwhelming. The idea that IT IS YOURS and you created and nurture it is very fulfilling. What's your story?

My Prayers for the People of Japan

2011-03-13T13:31:00.005-04:00

I'm off topic this afternoon. I want to send my prayers and thoughts to the people of Japan. They are living an unspeakable horror and it seems to be getting worse by the hour. I was born in Japan. My Dad was in the service and stationed there in the 1950's. He and my Mom lived there for several years and my sister and I were both born in Osaka. My parents often reminisced about the lovely people of Japan and their kindness, manners and warm friendships were remembered long after my parents returned to the US. They kept in touch with letters, calls and the most beautiful Christmas cards I had ever seen. My parent's considered returning but never again had the opportunity. I know that they both regretted it.

It is hard to imagine an earthquake followed by a wall of water traveling over five miles. It is hard to imagine the threat of nuclear meltdown just miles from your home. Limited food, water and fears of a reoccurrence are deadly threats. Yet, I read of the calm, the manners and the gentleness of a people who when faced by an unthinkable natural disaster are strong and courageous. Now I know exactly what my parent's spoke of with such respect.

The picture in the post is of my first doll, a gift from the Chief of Police from Osaka.

Dream Job Radio Interview

2011-03-12T13:54:00.000-05:00

I was interviewed for Dream Job Radio today. The topic was job search advice but we touched on developing yourself as an Entrepreneur. Here is the link through ITunes. Another source can be found here.

Local and Independent Authors Day at the Princeton Public Library

2011-03-11T12:38:00.000-05:00

I am looking forward to reading from my book, Job Search for Moms at the Princeton Public Library next Saturday, March 19, 2011. I will be speaking at approximately 2:45 PM in Session 3. This is a very exciting event for the library. The morning will feature the following presentations:

10:00 – 10:45am - Don Lafferty: Using Social Media, Marketing and public relations

10:45 – 11:30am - John Calu and David Hart – Transition from self to traditional and writing as a team

11:30-12:00pm - Chris Illuminati: Boggling and Self-Promotion

In the afternoon a wonderful selection of local and independent authors will introduce themselves, speak about their books and have a selection of books available for purchase.

Please stop by if you are in the area. I would love to meet you.

Make Your Resume Wording Specific

2011-03-10T10:47:00.000-05:00

I want to say a few quick words about resume preparation this morning. I am helping a friend put his resume together. We created one last year and he used it to find a position right away. Lately he has become dissatisfied with the new company and wants to move on to something new. What I thought would be a quick rewrite has become more of a challenge. He sent me his accomplishments for his first year on the job but they were very vague. Here are a few of his statements and the questions that I asked him to answer before we get started:

1. Made the transition of the Linden, NJ service area a smooth process. What does that mean? What did it involve? How many people were involved? What role did you play and what was the result?

2. Learned the new MODE System. Why is this important and how does it help? What is it and how/where do you fit in? What does MODE stand for?

3. Worked with assigned customers. How many customers do you have? Are they all over the country? What does “worked” mean?

4. Use the HIS System proficiently. What’s the actual name for the HIS system and what does it do? What does proficiently mean?

5. Assist sales rep with their service needs. How many sales reps do you deal with and where are they? What are their needs?

When you get down to writing your resume and can’t come up with anything specific, ask yourself some of these same questions to get specific, measurable accomplishments. Write out the wording for acronyms. Ask yourself this, “What did this job task result in?” That should help you get started.

Becoming Socially Connected For Your Job Search

2011-03-08T19:10:00.001-05:00

If you are reading this, chances are you are somewhat technically savvy and I'm just preaching to the choir. If you know someone who is not socially connected, perhaps you can point them to this article or at least print out it for them.

I've been giving a lot of training sessions for the age 40+ job seeker lately and the folks in these classes have to be some of my favorite people. Still, when I mention social media, many of the aged 50 and over in the crowd freeze, roll their eyes or poke the person sitting next to them. I can understand as I was in their shoes just a few years ago. Other than opening a LinkedIn account using my name and position, I let it sit there and well, do nothing. It wasn't until I was released from my former position that I learned the value of diving head-on into social media.

Now, most of you reading this don't know me. If you did, you'll know that several years ago I wasn’t interested in the internet. I didn’t really use it much at work except as a research tool and at home, I didn’t bother with it. Well, times have changed and I have become a full fledged fan, especially when it comes to helping people find jobs.

After using the worn out phrase, "Google yourself at least once a week", at a Job Search for the Age 40+ Seeker the other night, some of the people started snickering. Of course a few years ago, if I had said that, I might have blushed. It hit me then that for whatever reason; they too were not connecting (no pun intended) with the value of this remarkable technology. Unfortunately, they will be left behind unless they catch up.

The bottom line is this. Research shows that in 2011, many companies will move away from recruiters and job boards to list open positions and find prospective employees through LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. If you don't have a strong presence in these groups then your chances of finding employment will start to decline. Where should you start? I would suggest you start by creating a LinkedIn profile. Here are a couple of ideas:

1. Follow the directions on the LinkedIn profile page to create a profile. Take a tutorial if you're uncomfortable just jumping in or read an article about creating a strong on-line presence. About.com has some good, easy to follow articles.

2. After creating a profile, look for personal contacts and let them know that you want to connect. In your invitation, explain how you know each other and modify the standard LinkedIn greeting to reflect how you know one another.

3. Join groups representing your interests and experience. You might also want to join some of the job search groups and perhaps a group representing another area of interest. The other day I joined a Sales Training Group. I don't know anything about sales training but thought I might learn something if I joined. Finally, join a group where you can learn how to use LinkedIn properly. I suggest the group called, Linked Strategies. It is excellent.

All it takes is for you to make the first move and get started. You’ll be amazed at the information and people at your finger tips and you will be creating a social presence. There will be more to learn but this is a good place to start.

"Slow Down, Your Move to Fast....."

2011-03-05T11:13:00.001-05:00

Have you had this happen to you?

The other day a friend confided that she is networking and volunteering so much that it has started to eat into her job search time. I'll bet that's common, especially for the person used to working for eight or more hours a day. We all know that networking brings about 70 - 80% of the job opportunities and volunteering develops new skills or strengthens existing ones. Still, overdoing can take an emotional toll. Slow down, choose your networking and volunteering activities and make sure that there is time to job search, spend time with your family and take care of YOU. The Job search is stressful enough...

Creating Strong Resume Wording

2011-03-03T09:49:00.000-05:00

While talking about resumes the other night to a very bright group of job seekers, I had a mini epiphany. I notice that when preparing their resumes, most people have trouble coming up with measurable, specific examples of their past achievements. I'm telling you, so many of the resumes that I have seen look exactly like job descriptions and have phrases like, "Displays excellent communication skills" , "Utilizes project management tools", "Demonstrates leadership skills" ,"Innovative thinker". Since these words don't tell me anything about a person's skill set, how are they going to make an impact to the hiring manager?
As we discussed the importance of measurable results, it dawned on me to relate creating resume statements to that of goal setting. I asked the group how many of them participated in annual goal setting at their former companies. The majority had. Then I asked them how they went about it and basically, most of them followed the SMART acronym. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely. We then took this and applied it to writing resume statements. We decided that we didn't really need the A and the R (yaaaay, less steps!) but we certainly did need the S, M and T. So what does that look like?

Specific: Make your resume impactful by being specific. What did you do that made an impact? Let's say that you once managed a large domestic operating unit. Don't just say that. Something like, "Manage $24MM US budget with influence on $43M North America unit expenditures with emphasis on improving total cost of ownership. 2010 accumulated cost savings of $1.1 M and projected 2011 savings of $584K" has more of an effect.

Measurable: Think of these words, "So what?" How were you acknowledged by your clients, did you have certain items published, did your excellent customer service skills save time or money? In other words, what did your excellent skills result in? Here’s an example, "Plan and schedule weekly shift work, conduct monthly quality control calls and correct service problems to ensure clients are satisfied with support and services resulting in a consistent completion rate of 98%." This is so much stronger than just, “Excellent customer service skills.”

Timely: Were you always ahead of the projected schedule, did you consistently make the target? Did something that you designed, developed or implemented save time for you, your organization or customer? An example is," Developed process validation and operating procedures for the start-up of a new pharmaceutical production facility ahead of scheduled implementation date resulting in a 20% increase in operating revenue.”

Can you see the difference? Think about goal setting when you write out your resume statements by asking yourself these three questions:

· So what?

· Resulting in what?

· What was so special about that?

Don’t let your resume read like a job description or it may be passed by.

Planning the Job Search While Still On the Job

2011-03-01T12:23:00.000-05:00

Last night I gave a resume writing class to a great group over in a local library. A couple of people in the session had jobs but they were concerned that due to the economy and hearing the news around the water cooler that some changes may be in order, that they too might receive their walking papers. If that's what’s going to happen then it will happen but it occurred to me that there might be a couple of things that they can do now, while they are still there. In no particular order they might consider these:

1. Network: Get to know your vendors or outside service providers better. They work with people in other companies and may be privy to news of job openings or hidden positions. Also, be aware that some of your co-workers have networking contacts and those people might be able to help you as well.

2. Learn something. Take advantage of company-sponsored training and don't say that you don't have time for it. You may not be able to afford it if you have to pay for it on your own later.

3. Stay current in your field: Either at home or on your break or even at work, research your particular field. Learn what's new and what's changed. I know firsthand how difficult it is to carve out some time to do this but it is mandatory and necessary. If someone newer comes into your department and can say and use the buzz words associated with your industry and you are not keeping up, you're in trouble. Don't ever think that your tenure can keep you safe.

4. Join LinkedIn. No, it is not used only by job seekers. Use it to stay current in your field by joining groups in your industry. You don't have to join the job search groups - stay close to the groups associated with your industry. Make sure that while in these groups you answer questions and participate. This will allow you to become a subject matter expert and you will learn something new. (See # 3 above).

5. Join a professional group. If your industry has one and your company will pay for the membership, go and participate. You'll learn something and you'll make many networking contacts in your field.

6. Gather your past performance appraisals, goals, thank you notes, calendars, etc. You may not realize it now but these will help you compose your resume, interview and network later on down the road.

What else can you do? I've only listed six items but there are many more. Who knows? Perhaps by doing some of these things, you’ll prove that you are a true asset to your organization and maybe you can stick around a bit longer.

The Job Search and Gardening

2011-02-28T09:52:00.003-05:00

This weekend I went to a mother’s retreat with my church. It was something that I’ve never done before and it sounded like a good idea to help me return to what is important in my life. The invitation read, “Work, Parenting, Chores; The demands on our time and energy leave us feeling depleted…” The theme of the retreat was gardening. We reflected and shared “gardening” as it parallels our lives; preparing the earth, sowing seeds, weeding, watering, resting, messes; all the things related to cultivating and harvesting a beautiful garden.

I pushed all thoughts of Blackbird Learning Associates and job search training out of mind at this retreat and concentrated on tying the theme to my family life. Today, however, I realized that many of these same things are related to a job search.

Preparing the Earth: Obviously you can’t just put some seeds in the ground and hope that they’ll grow. You need to plan your garden and prepare the soil. These same techniques are part of planning your job search. Reflect on your career direction by first identifying your strengths, weaknesses, skill sets, career aspirations, accomplishments and networking contacts. This is also the time to prepare your resume taking care to use the proper wording and to also think about the types of questions that you may be asked in an interview.

Sowing Seeds: When you plant a garden some seeds will take and germinate while others will remain in their hard little shells. The same holds true in the job search. You may feel as if you are sending out hundreds of resumes but not receiving a single response. This is normal but so discouraging. Take the time to reflect on why this may be happening. Is your resume focused on the job requirements, is it tailored to the specific job? Are you networking? Perhaps you are interviewing but not getting anywhere. Are your responses specific and measurable? Do you ask questions? Do you know the company background?

Watering: Just as you don’t plant your garden and cross your fingers that it will grow without water or food, sending out resume after resume doesn’t always work. It’s not always productive nor makes good use of your time. Remember your network contacts and now and again send them something that may benefit them. Is there a recent article that they might find interesting? Is there an event that they may want to attend? If you interviewed, don’t forget to follow up with an electronic or written thank you.

Messes: Gardening is dirty and hard and sometimes you may wonder if anything is ever going to peek out of the ground. This is also true with losing a job and starting up again. Try not to let the negativity and uncertainty eat at you. Get out of the house for a while and get involved with other things. Volunteer and you will meet a new network, learn some new skills and most importantly, help clean the clutter from your mind.

Weeding: Not a lot of people like weeding. Its tough work and you can’t do it just once. If you let it go for a week or two, the weeds can overcome the garden and make it difficult for you to want to go out and clear the space. Have patience, continue your efforts, don’t give up and understand that this job search may have a very positive impact on your life as a whole.

Resting: Slow down, don’t push too hard, refocus and don’t let the “garden“take every moment of your time. Find time for you and your family. If you find that you are spending too much time at networking events and not enough time to respond to job inquiries then something is wrong. Cut an event or two out of your schedule and concentrate on what is important.

If you’ve ever grown anything you know the joy that the first glimpse of a new seedling can bring. Eventually your garden will bear fruit, and so will your job search.

Using Twitter For Your Job Search

2011-02-23T09:07:00.003-05:00

Today I'm going to write about something that I admit, I’m not very good at using – Twitter. I’m pretty savvy with my website (thank you Christine.biz) and blog (thank you me) but Twitter makes me feel amateurish. I do know that Twitter is already a great learning tool (see Grey's Anatomy Episode 13 about Tweeting in the operating room) and it is a wonderful way to help with your job search.

I have had a Twitter account for about a year. At first it just sat there and I didn’t have the time to figure out how to follow people or have them follow me. Slowly, I discovered that Twitter is just one of the many tools that can be used to offer job search advice and help my business; I learned to use it a bit more. I’m still stumped at some of the lingo and functions, but with time and research, I’ll figure them out.

Since this is a blog on the job search, I thought I’d share with you a couple of ways that you can learn AND look for a job on Twitter. You first need to sign up for a Twitter account and then connect with people and organizations. You then need to Tweet, or add content. The Twitter basics in the Help section can walk you through these as well as explain some of the lingo such as # and RT and @. There are two pieces of advice that I’d like to share to get you started; job search help and looking for jobs (these sound like the same thing but they’re different).

1. Job Search Help: There are numerous Tweets from companies, individuals or sites on Twitter that offer job search advice. You can learn how to create a resume, interview, network, look for a job as a new graduate, senior, new mom…. The list goes on. By simply typing Job Search in the Search box, you’ll be connected with many links and Tweets about the process. It can be overwhelming though and you’ll need a bit of time to pick through the Tweets. I found this great list of job search Twitter addresses from Career Rocketeer™. I’ve bookmarked it and refer to it often.

2. Looking for a Job: Once you get established and walk through the basic how tos, go to the Search box and type in your job title. Recently I entered my title, “Learning & Development” and a scrolling list of learning and development jobs appeared. They were global and domestic listings and many included salaries, companies and recruiting firms. Most had a URL link or shortened URL link to save character space) that I could click to find out more information including the application process.

Twitter is a good place to connect and network too as many of the Tweets are from people in your field. You can “Follow” these tweets and you can also post a tweet about your job search. Since you are allowed 140 characters to type, you can ask something like, “Anyone know of an IT engineering position in NJ?”

These are just two simple ways to use Twitter to help your job search and I am sure there must be hundreds more. I’m still trying to figure them out. Please add your suggestions – we could all use the advice!

The Job Search, Preparing: Part 3

2011-02-22T09:27:00.002-05:00

This is the final piece to the Job Search series that I put on Slideshare. This part looks at creating a resume, interviewing and follow up activities. I would appreciate your feedback. Is there something that you'd like to see? Please let me know.
The material for these shows comes from my job search classes.

The Job Search, Preparing: Part 3

View more presentations from Nancy Range Anderson.

Job Search: Part 2, Networking

2011-02-20T09:53:00.001-05:00

The Job Search, Networking describes many of the skills and activities needed to successfully network for a new position. It includes notes, activities and worksheets.

Job Search: Part 2, Networking

View more presentations from Nancy Range Anderson.

The Job Search Part One: Planning

2011-02-19T12:42:00.002-05:00

This is a SlideShare presentation on the Job Search. It is Part 1: Planning. I will be adding Parts 2 and 3, Networking and Preparing in the next few days. Much of the material here is based upon the material I present in my job search classes. Much of the material in Part 1 is from the class, Career Assessment.

The Job Search Part One: Planning

View more presentations from nancy_blackbird.

Companies Moving to NJ

2011-02-18T19:27:00.000-05:00

I'm not making a political statement here but I saw this article outlining the steps Governor Chris Christie is taking to stimulate economic growth in the state of New Jersey. He is offering out of state companies incentives to move or expand their businesses within the state. This article, from the GovMonitor lists the companies that are planning on moving to NJ. It also lists those existing NJ companies that are expanding. According to the article, this move will bring about 3024 new jobs.

In the job search it's important to scan the internet or papers for news of companies moving to your area. This move means growth and more jobs. Remember, if a company is moving to your area, not all of the staff will move with them.

Your Questions During an Interview

2011-02-17T08:40:00.002-05:00

Last night a friend asked me if I could suggest some dynamic questions that she might comfortably ask a Vice President on her second job interview. She did the leg work and studied up on the company and had some questions of her own but just wanted to bounce some ideas off of me.

As we got to talking, we went over the three major areas that a company wants to learn about you. If there is a good match, you are that much closer to getting the job!

1. Can you do the job?

2. Do you fit into the company culture?

3. Do you want this job?

Can you do this job?

Can you fit into the company culture?

Do you want this job?

1. What are the short and long term goals of this department?

2. What are the short and long term goals of the organization?

These questions along with more detail on interviewing techniques can be found in my book, Job Search for Moms.

Transferable Job Skills

2011-02-16T12:21:00.000-05:00

This morning I had to do some work for a huge event at my son's high school. In April the school is hosting its annual Fashion Show and Basket Auction. This event draws over 700 guests and makes a lot of money for the technology program within the school. Back when my son was a freshman (he’s now a senior), I volunteered to work on the Mother's Auction Committee. The goal of this group is to collect donations and using these, create stunning gift baskets for auction. Other than the fashion show, featuring the high school seniors, these baskets are the biggest draw of the day. So today I am entering all the donations that we have received to date into an Excel spreadsheet. This information is used for the event program and it also ensures that the donors receive a proper thank you.

I never used Excel prior to getting involved with the committee and I'm certainly not an expert. Still, I now consider it part of my skill set. Some of the other skills that I have polished as a result of the Fashion Show are:
1. Leadership. We have over 20 volunteers looking for direction on asking for donations and then creating the baskets.
2. Delegation: Dividing up the tasks and giving each volunteer the creative freedom he or she needs is part of the process.
3. Problem Solving: Handling last minute donations, working with other committees, broken donations... the list continues. The skill needed to decide what needs to be done and communicate it properly is used frequently.
4. Communication: Creating programs, working with other committees, working as a team are many of the components of this fund raiser.
5. Time Management: Ensuring the donations are requested and received on time, creating baskets within a limited time frame, displaying the baskets prior to the event.
6. Process Modeling: Designing a process model for future Program Chairs to follow.

These are just some of the skills needed for one outside or volunteer activity. These skills can be captured on a resume or discussed in an interview. Think about what you do as a volunteer. What skills do you use? What are the results of using these skills? Come up with measurable STAR (Specific, Task, Actions, Results) examples for each of the skills.
What can you come up with? What transferable skills do you have?