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4 career lessons we can learn from 'New Girl'


While many of the show's topics border on the absurd (for example, character Nick Miller meets someone at the bar where he works who claims to be "Nick from the future"), sometimes you can actually glean a real life lesson out of an episode, such as having Thanksgiving in the wilderness just to prove your manhood will ultimately backfire.
Alright, that might not be such a revelation, but when it comes to the careers of the show's characters, there are some true lessons to be learned. Here are four of them.

Lesson No. 1: Don't let setbacks discourage you
Early on in season two, Jess learns she's been laid off from her elementary school teaching job due to budget cuts. While the news hits her hard, Jess is determined to move on. She takes on a job as a "shot girl" at a party thrown by roommate Schmidt. Given her sweet, somewhat innocent demeanor, she's not so good at the job. She finally starts acting a little more wild, and it works, winning over the crowd's approval. But even after finally getting the hang of the job, she realizes this isn't who she really is -- she's meant to be a teacher.
The lesson? The job market is tough. You may find yourself in a situation where you've been laid off or you just can't seem to find a job in the field you want. While there may be circumstances where you need to take any job you can get, that doesn't mean you should let go of the idea of pursuing your passion. Continue seeking out opportunities that excite you. Take classes to help build your skills. If you keep working at it, you'll eventually get to where you want to be in your career.

Lesson No. 2: Don't try to be someone you're not just to impress co-workers
Jess does eventually get a job at a new school. She quickly discovers that there's a clique of "cool" teachers, and Jess makes it her mission to get in good with the group. These teachers could be considered "mean girls," and they drive Jess to drink, make fun of her principal and eventually sneak into the principal's yard and get in his hot tub. They get caught, but Jess gets them off the hook by convincing the principal they just wanted to hang out. But it's a close call that could've cost Jess her job.
The lesson? If you're new to a company, you may want to do anything you can to fit in with other co-workers and make friends. While it's not a bad thing to have some camaraderie with your fellow colleagues, and it's nice if any of those relationships turn into friendships, you shouldn't try to force yourself into situations that may make you uncomfortable just to fit in. At the end of the day, you're there to do your job and be professional, and any friendships made are just a bonus.

Lesson No. 3: Don't be afraid to make a change
Ever since roommate Winston's basketball career ended, he's struggled to figure out exactly what he wants to do with his life. After working odd jobs, he eventually lands a promising position at a sports radio station. He finally has some stability and is doing well at work, but through some soul searching (read: drinking at a bar), he realizes that he isn't happy and wants to try something new. Just because the job seemed like a good opportunity given his sports background, that doesn't mean it was the right fit. He doesn't know what he wants to do, but he's willing to explore different options until he finds what makes him happy.  
The lesson? You may have worked in the same career for a while, and you've gotten comfortable. You're good at what you do, and you're on your way up the ladder. But something is still missing -- you don't feel fulfilled. If that's the case, it may be time to make a change. While change is scary, sometimes it's good to challenge yourself, especially if it means that you'll ultimately end up doing something that you truly enjoy.

Lesson No. 4: Address issues with a co-worker -- professionally
Schmidt, who works in marketing, is told he has to help train a new team member, Ed. Ed is an older man and seems to be eager to learn all he can from Schmidt. Schmidt underestimates Ed's savviness and treats him as if he doesn't know much about marketing, or the world. Ed plays along, and Schmidt confides in him about a big idea he plans to pitch to his boss. Yet at the next team meeting, Ed steals Schmidt's idea. The idea intrigues their boss, who asks Ed to write up a more formal plan. Schmidt ends up sabotaging Ed's presentation, but Ed vows that he'll get back at Schmidt.
The lesson? Sometimes a workplace can get competitive. You may even find yourself in a situation where a co-worker tries to take credit for something you did. Yet while the issue should be addressed, there are more professional and ethical ways to handle it than sabotage. Try first to talk to your co-worker and explain your concern. There's a chance that it could end up being a misunderstanding; perhaps he didn't purposely mean to steal your idea. If you find that this continues to be an issue, you should bring it up with your boss, but do so tactfully. Ask for a private meeting, explain the situation, bring examples, and see how your boss wants to handle it. You should never resort to unethical behavior to solve an issue with another co-worker, because you may end up being the one who gets into trouble.

Do I Have To Disclose My Medical Condition To A Potential Employer?

What an employer can and can't ask about your disability in an interview

Weighing up the candidate's qualities
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An AOL Jobs reader asks:

Your columns are extremely educational and full of information. Thank you from an appreciative reader. I may have missed this, but when applying for a job, is it necessary to disclose any medical conditions? I am a Diabetic Type 1, and use a pump, which could bulge through my clothes, though I take care to avoid that.

I was hired by a high-end jewelry store one month ago, and after working for 10 days, was told by HR, that I was "not a good fit." No other explanation. Needless to say, I was devastated. I am a University graduate with a B.A. and have always worked diligently. Does this business have a right to dismiss me?

I'm so pleased you enjoy my columns! Thanks for letting me know. Your question addresses an important issue about disabilities. In general, you should not disclose any disabilities when applying for a job. The potential employer is not supposed to ask about any disability until it makes what is called a "conditional" job offer. For details on how the Americans With Disabilities Act works and who is covered, read my article 15 Things You Need To Know About Disability Discrimination.

Let me explain how a conditional job offer works.
  • Employer can't: Your potential employer can't ask any questions about any medical issues or require a physical examination before making a job offer. Prohibited questions would be things like, "Will you need any accommodations to perform this job?" "Do you have any medical conditions that would limit your ability to perform this job?" "How long will it take for your broken arm to heal?" or "What medications are you currently taking?"
  • Employer can: The potential employer may ask if you are able to perform the job before they make a job offer. For instance, questions like, "Are you able to perform all the duties of this job with or without accommodations?" "How would you perform this job task?" "Can you meet our attendance requirements?" "How many Mondays did you miss work other than holidays and scheduled vacations?" or "Do you currently use any illegal drugs?" If you come to the interview with a broken leg, it's not unusual for the interviewer to ask what happened, but they can't get into details about what treatment you had, how extensive the break is or how long it will take to fully heal.
  • Conditional offer: If you get a job offer, it may well have conditions, like passing a drug test or a physical agility test. At that point, the employer can ask if you need any accommodations for a disability. Once you get the job offer, that's the time to disclose if you need any reasonable accommodations. If you need, for instance, a CCTV to help you see your computer screen better, that's something to disclose before you start working. If the employer doesn't want to provide the accommodation, they'll have to show an undue hardship. Make sure you've passed any tests and received an unconditional offer before you give notice at any existing job. You don't want to give notice only to find out the offer was withdrawn.
  • Reference checks: The employer can't ask anything from your references that it can't ask you. Questions about whether you needed accommodations, took Family and Medical Leave or needed time off for medical conditions are not allowed. How will you know if they ask? You probably won't. That's a major problem with the law, but if you have a good relationship with your former employer, they may tell you. If you get a call saying, "Wow, they asked me lots of questions about your medical condition," then that's a red flag that something illegal happened.

If the employer finds out about your disability either at the interview stage or after you've been hired and then withdraws the offer or suddenly fires you, then you may well have a disability discrimination case. If you think you were a victim of disability discrimination, I suggest contacting an employment lawyer in your state to learn more about your rights.

7 Tips to Go From Newbie to Superstar

If you help your boss succeed, you will succeed

 By Jay Kilberg 

Photographers
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You're the new kid on the block and you want to quickly make your mark transitioning from rookie to rising star. First -- kudos to you. If you define your job as keeping your head down and going through the motions so you can get to Friday at 5, you're doomed for career mediocrity or probable termination. In today's competitive world, you need to go that extra mile to truly differentiate yourself from the rest of the herd. You have to have that fire in your belly and truly want it.

Here are a few things I've learned along the way to help quickly take your career to the next level: 

1. If you help your boss succeed, you will succeed.

You want a big raise and a promotion? Do what it takes to get your boss a big raise and a promotion. You accomplish this by understanding what your boss's goals are for the year and then being instrumental in achieving them. If you're the key to making your boss a star, then you will be one too.

2. If you're not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.

No manager has the luxury of carrying dead wood. You need to step up and add value. Volunteer for the critical project that no one wants to take on. Bring forward new ideas on how to delight customers and boost retention. Come up with ways to help the business do its work smarter. Be the "go to" person when an important assignment needs to get done right.

3. Anticipate what needs to get done and just do it. 

If you wait around for someone to tell you what to do you will soon become expendable. Be proactive and take initiative. Understand the strategic direction for your business and help your team get there faster by determining what needs to get done and just doing it. Always try to anticipate and stay one step ahead. As the Great One hockey legend Wayne Gretzky put it: "A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be."

4. Always be learning. 

Just because you graduated doesn't mean you stop learning. What are the key trends driving your industry? What new technologies are emerging that could be a game changer? What new ideas or frameworks can you apply to help transform your business? Take advantage of all the professional development stuff your company offers. Sign up for a workshop to build new skills. Be a voracious reader. Be open to new ideas and ways of thinking. When in doubt, keep your mouth shut, listen and learn from others that know more than you. Commit to being a lifelong student. Knowledge is power.

5. Build trust.

Do you keep your word? When you commit to taking on a project do you deliver on time and on budget? Do you have a reputation for unquestionable integrity? Can you be counted on to actually do what you say you are going to do? The answer to all of these must be an unequivocal YES.

6. No surprises. 

No boss worth their salt likes surprises. Although it might be unpleasant, it is dramatically better to bring bad news to your boss's attention immediately so the damage can be managed and controlled. The longer you wait, the higher the likelihood that the problem will be bigger and your credibility will be questioned (see 5 above). If you smell something rotten, let your boss know before everyone dies of food poisoning.

7. Be positive.

Yes, it's work, but it's not a prison sentence. Be a high-energy positive person that people enjoy working with and want to be around. Smile. Be professional, but have some fun. Love what you do. Research shows that 75 percent of job success is driven by your level of optimism. Create a mental model that says, "I'm fortunate to have this opportunity and I'm going to make the most of it."

Life is not a dress rehearsal. Do great things and enjoy the ride.    

How to Get a Job Without A Bachelor's Degree

You can get hired, if you know what to do...

Image by Shutterstock
Shutterstock

 Meet Tim.

He served in our military and then took advantage of the GI Bill. But, because Tim wanted to get working, he opted for an Associate's Degree. He landed a job upon graduating. Then, after years of working for the same company, got laid-off.

He's since moved to a new city to be closer to family, but is finding it impossible to get a job. Why? Almost every job posting he feels qualified for has "Bachelor's Degree Required" listed in it. The result has been no interviews - and definitely no job offers.

Is it "back to school" for Tim? Not necessarily.

Tim specializes in Supply Chain Management. He has done a lot of continuing education in the form of courses and certifications. Also, his experience and level of position at his last job indicate he is more than capable of doing the work. Truthfully, the Bachelor's Degree most likely wouldn't teach him anything new. It just might make getting employers to pay attention to his online applications a bit easier, here's why...

ATS: The ultimate robo-recruiter. (And, that's a bad thing!)

ATS (applicant tracking systems) are used by many companies today. Especially, by larger businesses that hire for Tim's skill set. The corporate recruiters simply put in a set of criteria they are looking for (i.e. Bachelor's Degree), and then, as the applications come in, the ATS automatically screens out the ones that aren't a 100% match in skills and keywords. This means at least 8 out of 10 times, Tim's application is never even being seen by a human eye. All that time he spends applying online? It's a waste.

Career L.U.C.K. = Get past ATS with a little strategic networking!

There is something Tim can do to create his own career L.U.C.K. - watch the video below to learn how he can go around the ATS and find the best way to get hired without a Bachelor's degree.


Here's what Tim needs to do:

Locate the Problem - Tim has several problems. To recap, first, he has moved to a new city and has no existing professional network to leverage. Second, with only an Associate's Degree, he will automatically get eliminated by ATS, making online applications a near useless method for him to find a job. Finally, because he is currently unemployed, employers in the new city will naturally discriminate against him. Tim has to find a way to network with people directly so they can get to know him and see his true potential.

Uncover the Issues - Since applying online hasn't worked and Tim has no network to tap into, he is feeling as if he can only apply to jobs that will accept him with his Associate's Degree. This:

A) Limits his options severely.
B) Makes Tim feel bad about himself and his ability to get hired.

In short, Tim is experiencing a crisis of confidence and is frustrated to think that all his hard work, both in the military, and on the job after he got his degree were for nothing. That hurts his ability to put forth the kind of effort he'll need to get a new job. As months pass, if something doesn't change, Tim will find it harder to motivate himself to look for work. (This article shows how crisis of confidence can deeply affect your ability to succeed in your career.)

Create New Plan - Tim needs to go around the ATS. To start, he must do his homework and find companies in the area that hire for his skill set. We call this a "bucket list" - and it's the single best way to focus a job search so you can get real results. Next, Tim will leverage several aspects of his situation that will encourage people to want to network with him. In this case, the fact that he is a veteran and new to the area will enable him to make use of the "Welcome Wagon Effect." This is when professionals go out of their way to offer to help fellow professionals who are new to the area. Tim will use this approach to connect with people in his chosen field of Supply Chain Management that work at the companies on his bucket list. That way, he can ask them first-hand what it takes to get hired by their companies with only an Associate's Degree.

Know Your Next Steps - To keep Tim on task, I suggest he start with a total of 10 companies on his bucket list. He should find the top firms in the area and be able to back up with facts why they earned a spot on his list. Then, he'll research five employees at each company for him to target his outreach to. Using LinkedIn, Tim will be able to customize his requests to connect, using the information he gained while research each firm and their employees. This will statistically increase the chances they will accept his connection requests. Once they accept, Tim can follow up with an email seeking an opportunity to either chat with them by phone or exchange emails so he can get their guidance and perspective on what they think it takes to eventually earn a position with their employer. (This article offers step-by-step process for creating your own bucket list and the right way to ask for informational interviews.)

NOTE: He will not ask them for a job, or to refer him to one. Tim is simply asking for information that will empower him to customize his approach when applying to these companies in the future. However, by establishing a relationship with existing employees, Tim can hopefully leverage that down the line. Over 80 percent of all jobs are gotten via referral. So, to improve your chances of getting hired, it only makes sense to network with people who have jobs at the companies you want to work for!

Lesson learned? Remove the online roadblock!

If you are like Tim and don't have the degree, or perhaps other skills and experience listed on a job requirement, the chances you'll get hired when applying online are slim. The solution is to use the technique above to go around the process. It's the only way you can get the employer to overlook the criteria the set and realize you have the ability to do the job!

How to Get an Internship In High School

Students are expected to have real-world experience

high school student chats to teacher or counsellor
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Career coaches have been advising college students about the importance of internships for decades. More recently, Baby Boomers have been encouraged to take on "adult internships" to help them transition to new occupations or enter a new field. However, the first-ever study on high school careers by Millennial Branding and Internships.com says 50 percent of companies are creating high school internship programs this year and high school students are even more career-focused than college students. The study, "High School Careers," shows the importance of career development activities, such as internships and volunteering, for high school students who want to get into better colleges and find future employment.

How can high schoolers position themselves to be competitive for internships? Dan Schawbel, founder of Millennial Branding and author of Promote Yourself, offers the following tips to enhance potential opportunities:

1. Ask your family members for help. "We found that 54 percent of parents have helped their children get work experience during high school," Schawbel says. Students should encourage their parents to introduce them to people they know who may help connect them to an internship, and parents should help high schoolers prepare for interviews. Schawbel suggests parents talk to their children about what to expect in work situations and to suggest how to make the most of the opportunity.

2. Attend networking groups and meetups. Go to eventbrite.com and meetups.com and join networking groups in your city. "By going to these events, you can start to establish your own network and differentiate yourself from your fellow high school students," Schawbel suggests. "Rarely will you see students attend events, so professionals will be more than impressed if you take the initiative."

3. Ask your high school. See if your high school administrators or teachers have any connections to companies that are offering internships. Your high school probably has the resources and connections that will help you get these opportunities, Schawbel says. If they don't, they should be able to point you in the right direction.

4. Apply for an internship online. Internships.com is a source of high school internships. For example, Microsoft offers a paid internship program for 8 to 10 weeks only for high school students. Many of the top colleges also offer internships with online applications. For example, Boston University has a research internship in science and engineering during the summer for six weeks.

5. Do freelance work. Instead of applying to internship programs, Schawbel says, "You can also use sites like oDesk.com and Freelancer.com in order to find work that matches your skills. In our study we found that about 40 percent of internships are administrative, but freelance work is solely based on your skills and you can have more flexibility with where you do the work. Do freelance work in order to build a portfolio that you can use to get into a better college."

How To Bounce Back From A Negative Performance Review

Deal with your emotions first, then move on to the reasons

Business woman on steps looking worried
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By Vicki Salemi

If you're on the heels of a year-end performance review or getting ready for a new goal-setting meeting, welcome to the club. If your review hasn't exactly been stellar, the first reaction may be denial, anxiety or even outrage. The good thing is the process of sitting down with your boss creates an opportunity for honest feedback and consequently, a new game plan.

According to experts, a negative review isn't the be all and end all. Peter Handal, chairman and CEO of Dale Carnegie Training, recommends looking at the big picture. "A review is a real opportunity to see how somebody important in your career, your supervisor, views you," he says. 

The first step for an employee approaching the review is to be a good listener. Considering your boss may not be the best communicator, he or she may be blunt. "Reviews aren't done as skillfully as they might otherwise be," Handal says. "A boss may say, 'Peter, you did a crummy job on this.'" Listen carefully to what's being said.


The immediate reaction may be to get really defensive and then block yourself off to the rest of the conversation. Craig Chappelow, a senior faculty member at the Center for Creative Leadership, says: "Emotions first, reasoning second. ... Your boss doesn't give you negative feedback to be mean or hurtful – it's their job. Do yours."

The only reason they're doing this is because they're interested in your success. "This conversation is for the purpose of helping you become more successful," Handal says. After all, the supervisor looks more successful when you're successful – you're both in this together. It's normal to feel hurt or angry. Chappelow recommends managing your emotions privately with a trusted individual. Whether you lean on a mentor or friend afterward, Chappelow suggests taking time to "cycle through the emotions this kind of bad news can bring." Monitor your reactions and try to identify what you're feeling. "It can be a very telling exercise and most people cannot move on to solving the problem if they don't take the time to reflect on their reactions and go ahead and have the emotional reaction," he says.

During the performance review itself, it's OK to acknowledge your emotions without letting them surpass your ability to be an effective listener. As the conversation keeps flowing, take copious notes especially if you're emotionally caught up in the moment – you don't want to miss any nuggets of insight.


That said, if your boss isn't providing specific examples, ask for some. Instead of giving your opinion or becoming defensive, Handal suggests saying, "Well, gee, can you give me an example of where I can improve or what do you think would be an example of something I have done well?" This engages your boss a little more into the discussion. He or she could be hesitant or maybe they haven't done this before. Your asking these kinds of questions will draw him or her out.

Instead of viewing this as a stressful situation, look at it as an opportunity to create a game plan to move forward. "Take a deep breath, be calm and think there must be some value to this conversation," Handal says. Figure out how to address issues that were raised. "This is a win-win – she's really interested in my success and then I can show my supervisor this is the way I'm going to address these things."

Chappelow adds: "It is a cliché to say that feedback is a gift – and it often doesn't feel like it in the moment – but it really is critical. We try to help the individual understand the importance of any feedback as a navigation point."

How to Land the Internship of Your Dreams

Internship opportunities await students who prepare thoroughly

group of students working on...
Shutterstock/Goodluz

It's time to start looking for an internship if you want to be gainfully employed this summer, but how can you make sure you stand out from the crowd of other qualified applicants? The key? Know what you offer and be able to market your skills in a way that appeals to your target audience. Before you can start to choose the best places to look and actually apply, you should do some research so you are well prepared to know what you offer as it relates to what employers likely need.

Identify your special attributes
Before you apply for an internship – or any job – you should first take a long, hard look at what you have to offer. What skills do you have? How can you help employers solve their problems? What can you do better than most other people? Focus on these skills and identify the commonalities between what you offer and what your target employers need.

Choose keywords
Once you hone in on your skills and what employers need from you, carefully select keywords companies will use when they search for someone like you. Use job descriptions as well as information you can find on company profiles and via their social media sites to choose the words that will appeal to them.

Create a discoverable resume
Find job descriptions for internships that appeal to you (look at AOL Jobs, idealist.com, indeed.com, simplyhired.com, internships.com and http://internqueen.com to start your research). Study them: what skills and accomplishments do they want successful applicants to have? Include the key words on your resume that prove you are the one for the job. Do not expect the person (or the applicant tracking system) that reviews your resume to assume anything you do not specifically include in your resume.

For example, if you want someone to know you are good at solving problems, specify problems you have solved, label them as problems and describe your role in overcoming challenges and accomplishing goals.

Create magnetic social media profiles
In your online profiles, use those keywords to write headlines, taglines and bios that make it clear how you can contribute. For example, in your LinkedIn headline, include some keywords as well as a pitch – a brief description of what you can do that makes you worth hiring.

If you're looking for a sales and marketing internship, for example, your LinkedIn headline may read:
Sales & Marketing/Customer Service Representative: multitask, prioritize, provide amazing service with a smile.
In those 110 characters, there are several keywords as well as a pitch ("provide amazing service with a smile.")

Use social media to expand your network
Tap into LinkedIn's "Education" section (find it under Interests). You can see where people who graduated from your school work today and where they live. Take advantage of opportunities to connect via groups on LinkedIn and Facebook, communities on Google+ and Twitter chats on Twitter. You may be surprised by how helpful people you've never met may be if they are impressed with you and your online profile.

Get started on these steps and stay tuned for more tips about how to apply for internships and avoid job search mistakes.

The new trends in interviewing

By Kim Monaghan,

Just like fashion, new trends are always emerging for interviewing platforms. Yet, making a career transition is tough enough without focusing valuable energy on pursuing the latest bells and whistles. Though some may not be your preferred style, there will always be a "new black" that recruiters are ready to try on during an interview. The idea is not to chase the trends but be cognizant, and capable, of successfully navigating the ones that come your way.

Group Interviews 
Somewhere along your career journey you may participate in a group interview. This may include multiple hiring managers, team members or even a panel. You might even find yourself being interviewed alongside other applicants. This "firing squad" approach isn't necessarily easy (or fun) unless you're one of the hiring professionals who prefer to save time by rapidly narrowing the talent pool. Odds are, any time the number of people in the interview increase, so will your stress. The success strategy includes not being caught off guard when you walk in the room and discover multiple interviewers or applicants. Being aware of this trend and even practicing your approach will help you stay calm and focused. Be sure, however, to address each person equally with your responses and eye contact.


Video interviewing
The fact that they don't even make laptops without cameras anymore should clue you in that the video interviewing trend is here to stay. When it comes to video interviewing the challenge lies in overcoming self-distraction, or in other words, getting out of your own way. If your Internet connection is sketchy, you might find yourself focusing more on technical issues than concentrating on impressing an employer. Check your connections beforehand or book a conference room where technology interface is part of the package. Another hurdle includes "personal" distraction. Some candidates lose focus and eye contact and tend to fidget more as they get distracted by phones, family or even seeing their image reflected back during an interview. If you're one of them, set up a time and place to conduct a few video interview dress rehearsals before the big day.


Quirky questions 
"If it were possible, what theme song would play each time you entered a room?" "What is the biggest mistake you've made in your career?" "If you were a Disney character, which character would you be and why?" Welcome to the trend of quirky questions. Hiring managers ask questions like these, and other seemingly not so relevant queries, for number of reasons, including having a creative way to assess an applicant's personality. Quirky questions can also be used to determine how well you can handle being thrown a curve ball, if you're flexible and innovative and if you have the ability to learn from past mistakes.

These interpersonal skills-driving questions may also ease the tension in an interview. The challenge is not to overthink them but rather go with the flow and offer honest, and in some cases light-hearted, responses. Remember, this is still and interview, so your answers should shed a positive light on your ability to contribute positively to an organization. Perhaps you've chosen Alice in Wonderland as your Disney character; be sure to give a host of reasons why "Alice" would make a good employee. She's inquisitive, thoughtful, creative and willing to take risks. One note of caution, even if the interviewing mood becomes more playful with these questions, it's not the time to be self-indulgent or too forthcoming; especially if your theme song is "Highway to Hell."

Six Steps to a Higher Starting Salary

CareerBuilder.com

While money isn't everything, planning for salary discussions and negotiations should be an important part of your job search preparation. Following are six steps to help you secure a higher starting salary.

Step One: Know what you're worth.
The key to any successful negotiation is information, so do your homework to assess your competitive value. Do some research and find out the pay range for the type of job you are seeking. Once you know the going rate, take into consideration your skills, education, experience and any unique value you bring to the prospective employer to see where you would rank within that range.

Step Two: Delay talking about salary as long as possible.
Give a figure too soon and you risk either being disqualified because it's too high or judged underqualified because it's too low. Even if you do pass the screen, having given the employer your bottom line will limit your ability to negotiate a higher salary. If asked your salary requirements in a want ad or posting, say they are flexible or that you are earning -- or expect to earn -- "market value" or "competitive" compensation for someone in your field. If you are being asked your requirements as part of a phone screen, politely ask what the salary range is for the position. If they won't schedule an interview unless you give your salary requirements, tell them your requirements depend on a variety of factors including job content, health benefits, bonuses, commissions or profit sharing arrangements, training and advancement opportunities. Then give a very wide range.

Step Three: Don't lie about your current earnings.
Fearful of letting their current salaries limit their future income, some job candidates inflate their earnings. They do this at their own peril. Today, companies conduct more rigorous background checks -- some even ask to see W-2s! It's not uncommon for potential candidates to be eliminated for being less than straightforward about their salary history. Your best bet is to avoid divulging your salary until you've had a chance to prove why you are worth more.

Step Four: Never accept or negotiate an offer on the spot.
No matter how good it sounds (or how desperate you are), never commit or discuss an offer until you've had time to thoroughly consider it. When you receive the offer, thank the employer and restate your desire to work for the organization, then tell them you need time to think it over. Find out what the advancement opportunities are and how and when your performance and salary will be reviewed. Make sure to evaluate the entire compensation package including health and welfare benefits, vacation days, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement and company car, as well as other non-monetary elements.

Step Five: Don't be afraid to ask for more.
As long as you act respectfully, you have nothing to lose by asking what the company can do to bring you closer to your desired salary. In some cases the hiring manager has discretionary power to go 10 to 20 percent above the highest figure he or she mentions to get an exceptional candidate; besides, good managers always start low to give themselves negotiating room. If they are firm on salary, it's often possible to negotiate some other aspect of the offer such as benefits, vacation or other incentives. Studies show the majority of employers are flexible on at least some element of the compensation package.

Step Six: Know when to stop.
During negotiations, the typical response to your counter proposal will be either to accept some of your terms or to refuse to negotiate at all. If the employer has stopped responding to your counter proposals or making concessions, it's time to end the negotiations. Remember, you don't want to prolong a salary tug-of-war at the expense of losing the employer's goodwill -- or their offer. 

How to Answer the Strangest Interview Questions

Roll with the punches and you'll be fine

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It's not bad enough that the job application was 10 pages long, and you waited three weeks to hear back from the employer. Now, you need to prepare for crazy brainteaser interview questions, too? Not necessarily. Typically, employers focus on the run-of-the-mill questions you'd expect to be asked; the kinds of questions you can slam dunk. However, in case you ever do face an off-the-wall inquiry like one of the questions on Glassdoor.com's "Top 25 Oddball Interview Questions for 2014," how should you plan to reply?

It might help to consider why employers may include these brainteasers in the first place.

They want to know how easy is it to throw you off your game

It's possible the point of the inquiry is to test how you respond in an unexpected situation or stressful situation, which is very revealing. It actually makes a lot of sense for an employer to want to test your response to the unexpected, and an otherwise "crazy" interview question may be the best way they know how to do it without creating an actual trial situation. Your response: don't stress out; take things one step at a time.

So, when Xerox asked, "Why is a tennis ball fuzzy?" they were probably anticipating you'd be surprised by the question and hoped to see how you reacted. Your actual reply is not likely to be as important as your ability to take things in stride.

Determining if you a creative problem solver is a top priority

In theory, everyone wants to hire creative problem solvers, but it's not always easy to determine exactly how creative you are in a pinch. Some of the questions on Glassdoor's list likely fall in this category. Your response: think about how you can be resourceful, creative and detail oriented in an effort to solve the problem presented.

If asked a questions such as Bed, Bath & Beyond's inquiry, "If you were a box of cereal, what would you be and why?" take into account the type of job and try to come up with a response that fits. If the position involves style, design and color, answer by incorporating your interest in and passion for those topics as they relate to cereal.

Are you comfortable asking questions?

An employee who doesn't know how to ask questions at the right time will inevitably make bad choices. Perhaps the goal of some of these questions is to determine how likely you are to clarify the question or request additional information you will need to answer it. Don't invite the interviewer to make a negative snap judgement about you. Your response: at the very least, come up with a few details or items that you would need to know in order to tackle the question and ask some clarifying questions of your own.

When Factual asked a software engineer, "How would you use Yelp to find the number of businesses in the U.S.?" the engineer could approach the question by asking some clarifying information about the type of data he or she would need to use to answer the question.

Are you a trouble-maker?

If you question the value of the inquiry itself by responding, "What does this have to do with the job?" you might as well get up and walk out of the interview. (Unless they are looking for a contrary or difficult candidate, which is unlikely.) You'd be surprised, but some people will show these unattractive traits in an interview when pressed. Your response: just roll with the punches and do the best you can.

If an employer asks, "If you could sing one song on American Idol, what would it be?" don't reply, "Take the job and shove it" if you want the position!

Keep in mind a few key things if you need to reply to a brain teaser:
  • It's okay to stop and think before you answer, and even to ask for clarification if there are any details you don't understand.
  • The interviewer is trying to learn how you would act as an employee. Try to answer the question in a way that showcases the skills you have for the job. If the position is mathematical, use math skills, if demonstrating your creative side is more important, go that route.
  • Don't get rattled or give up or you won't get the job. Do the best you can and keep a smile on your face. If the point of the question was to see how you handle a challenge, the employer may overlook the fact that you couldn't come up with a best-case answer if you can smooth over your reply despite not knowing what to say.

How to discuss a termination during a job search

By Wendell Brenner, 

Being terminated can happen to any of us, unfortunately. It can occur at any time and even when it's not your fault. There could simply be a personality conflict between you and your supervisor. Your idea of what the job was going to be like might be different from what the employer had in mind. You could have simply made a mistake. It happens ... and you're not alone. Each year, workers are fired for cause or unjustly fired (known as wrongful termination), but regardless of the circumstances, you're left wondering: What should you do if you've been fired? Where do you go from here?


Getting fired
First and foremost, don't beat yourself up. And don't dwell on it. Instead, focus on what you are going to do next and how you are going to find another job. There are ways you can address this issue and put it in a neutral -- if not a positive -- light by focusing on your strengths and the direction you want to go. According to the encouraging words of Eckhart Tolle, "Whatever you fight, you strengthen; and what you resist, persists."



Legal matters
Before you actively begin your job search, consider where you legally stand. Was your firing legitimate or could it be considered wrongful termination? Are you eligible for unemployment benefits? If you were fired for misconduct you may not be eligible, but don't assume that is the case without investigating. Check with your state unemployment office, especially if you have a different opinion than your employer does about how you parted ways. In many cases, if there is a discrepancy between the two perspectives, the unemployment office will lean toward the unemployed job seeker rather than the employer when making a decision on unemployment compensation benefits. Also, many employment law firms offer a free initial 15 to 30 minute consultation to ensure that you know your rights and to guarantee that those rights are protected.



Résumés and cover letters
Your job-search communication and your approach must be positive. There is no need to mention that you were fired in your résumé or cover letters unless the application asks specifically. If it does ask, acknowledge the termination aspect in your cover letter and make sure it addresses the proactive steps you are taking as a result. Be brief; save the full explanation for a phone screening or in-person interview.



Applications
From the first application to your final interview, be honest but avoid being negative. The truth is bound to come up in one way or another so practice phrases such as "job ended," "dismissed" or "terminated." If the application specifically asks if you were fired, you need to answer yes. Lying on a job application may cause you to lose the opportunity and it may be considered grounds for dismissal at any time in the future, which could potentially cost you future unemployment benefits.



Interviewing
This is where the topic of being let go and how to address it usually matters most. You will most likely be asked the question, "Why did you leave your last job?" Keep it short, keep it honest, and keep it moving. Explain why if it was a company circumstance beyond your control (downsizing, merger, etc.). If it was as a result of something within your power or responsibility, tell the interviewer you learned a lesson and explain how you benefited from the experience. Take the negative and turn it into a positive. It's not easy, but honesty is the best policy throughout the job-search process. If it wasn't under your control (e.g., mass layoffs, company went out of business), mention it without sounding negative toward your former employer.

25 Strangest Interview Questions

These real-world questions prove anything can happen

Macys Parade 2009
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"If you could throw a parade of any caliber through the Zappos office, what type of parade would it be?" 

How are you supposed to reply to such an off-the-wall interview question? Do you even want this job? Someone applying for a position with the Zappos Family as a customer loyalty team member was faced with such a quandary; the question is number one on Glassdoor.com's list of "Top 25 Oddball Interview Questions for 2014."

Glassdoor.com's team of data scientists compiled this list, which is not in any particular order, based on questions shared during the past 12 months as part of the Interview Reviews feature on Glassdoor. This feature, which is free to use, offers insights into the interview process including the interview format, how the interview was achieved, the average interview length and overall ratings regarding the interview experience. Glassdoor has collected nearly 1 million interview questions and reviews from around the world. To develop the list, they take into account community feedback, such as questions tagged as "brainteasers" and compile questions job candidates shared on their site over the past year.

Glassdoor's Top 25 Oddball Interview Questions for 2014:

1. "If you could throw a parade of any caliber through the Zappos office, what type of parade would it be?" – The Zappos Family, Customer Loyalty Team Member interview

2. "How lucky are you and why?" – Airbnb, Content Manager interview

3. "If you were a pizza delivery man, how would you benefit from scissors?" – Apple, Specialist interview

4. "If you could sing one song on American Idol, what would it be?" – Red Frog Events, Event Coordinator interview

5. "Are you more of a hunter or a gatherer?" – Dell, Account Manager interview

6. "If you were on an island and could only bring three things, what would you bring?" – Yahoo, Search Quality Analyst interview

7. "If you were a box of cereal, what would you be and why?" – Bed Bath & Beyond, Sales Associate interview

8. "Do you believe in Bigfoot?" – Norwegian Cruise Line, Casino Marketing Coordinator interview

9. "Why is a tennis ball fuzzy?" – Xerox, Client Manager interview

10. "What is your least favorite thing about humanity?" – ZocDoc, Operations Associate interview

11. "How would you use Yelp to find the number of businesses in the U.S.?" – Factual, Software Engineer interview

12. "How honest are you?" – Allied Telesis, Executive Assistant interview

13. "How many square feet of pizza are eaten in the U.S. each year?" – Goldman Sachs, Programmer Analyst interview

14. "Can you instruct someone how to make an origami 'cootie catcher' with just words?" – LivingSocial, Consumer Advocate interview

15. "If you were 80 years old, what would you tell your children?" – McKinsey & Company, Associate interview

16. "You're a new addition to the crayon box, what color would you be and why?" – Urban Outfitters Sales Associate interview

17. "How does the internet work?" – Akamai, Director interview

18. "If there was a movie produced about your life, who would play you and why?" – SinglePlatform, Inside Sales Consultant interview

19. "What's the color of money?" – American Heart Association, Project Manager interview

20. "What was the last gift you gave someone?" – Gallup, Data Analyst interview

21. "What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently?" – Applebee's, Bartender/Neighborhood Expert Server interview

22. "How many snow shovels sold in the U.S. last year?" – TASER, Leadership Development Program interview

23. "It's Thursday; we're staffing you on a telecommunications project in Calgary, Canada on Monday. Your flight and hotel are booked; your visa is ready. What are the top five things you do before you leave?" – ThoughtWorks, Junior Consultant interview

24. "Describe to me the process and benefits of wearing a seatbelt." – Active Network, Client Applications Specialist interview

25. "Have you ever been on a boat?" – Applied Systems, Graphic Designer interview

Before you freak out at the thought of answering one of these oddball questions, keep in mind that most employers will stick to the more traditional, "Why should we hire you" and "What is your biggest weakness" type of interview question. Be prepared to explain why you are a good fit for the job.

Stay tuned for specific tips later this week just in case you face one of these eclectic inquiries at your next interview.

What are some of the strangest questions you've been asked on an interview? Comment below.

What's New in What Color is Your Parachute?

Is the definitive book on job search still relevant in 2014?


Last week I wrote about several of the great email newsletters that offer job search and career advice. While researching, it struck me that so much information on job search and careers is immediately available. This abundance is a sharp contrast to the pre-digital age when there was only one definitive book on job search, Richard Nelson Bolles' What Color is Your Parachute? A Practical Guide for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers. For decades Parachute had the monopoly on job search reference books. It wasn't a book about job search; it was THE BOOK about job search. Often the first piece of advice given to new college graduates was to buy WCIYP.

Easy to read, harder to practice
While the book is easy to read, it isn't easy to put into practice. It doesn't come in the form of ephemeral feel good tips or breezy listicles. It requires introspection, self-inventory and a lot of hard work. But people get results. By asking difficult questions, the book demands that readers take a deep look at themselves, discover what they want, what they are really good at and how to turn that into a career.

One of my big questions is how does Parachute compete in a multi-platform, on demand world? With so many websites, twitter feeds, apps and newsletters constantly dispensing weekly, daily and hourly career advice and job search tips, can one book remain definitive and relevant?

Parachute has been around since 1970 because it's damn good. As Mr. Bolles puts it, the book provides "a practical bridge between what [students] learn and the real world awaiting them out there." The enduring truths and practical knowledge provided within its pages resonate for anyone who needs advice on job search, resumes, starting a business, networking and more. This is the blocking and tackling that doesn't get taught in schools.

So what's new for 2014? It's incredible to think that this book has been updated every year since 1975. It's the same book I read all those years ago, but it is entirely different. The fundamentals are still embedded from beginning to end, but it also reflects the realities, opportunities and challenges of today's job market. It's not just a fresh coat of paint; the changes are evident throughout the book.

Online reputation management
A big point Bolles makes is "Google is Your New Resume." Our careers were once represented by a single piece of paper. Today we can no longer control what employers discover about our professional and personal lives. With a few keystrokes any hiring manager of HR professional can dig up a lot more information than ever before. Parachute gives great advice on how to manage and edit our online reputations.

This edition takes a deep dive into social and digital media and how to make all platforms and services part of your arsenal. Covering everything from LinkedIn to online universities, the book provides practical knowledge for even those most unfamiliar with social networking and the powerful online tools that can jumpstart your job search.


The Flower Exercise has long been a signature part of WCIYP. This year, the exercise has been improved and updated to help users more accurately take an intense inventory of themselves. This is one of the key pieces of Bolles' approach and successful self-assessment is critical to discovering the optimum career path. The Flower Exercise is also available as a great iPad/Nook app.

If you need a more constant stream of insights, Richard Bolles is very active on Facebook and you can also follow him on Twitter and find him on LinkedIn.

So in response to my earlier question, "Is Parachute still relevant today?" The simple answer is...YES. I purchased the 2014 edition to skim and compare it to my ragged 20th century copy. What surprised me was how quickly this perusal became complete immersion. I am already a few chapters in and ready to do the hard work once again. Job search and career change require a battery of tools, What Color is Your Parachute? is still one of the finest out there.    

The Long And Short Of Long-Term Unemployment [Infographic]

One in four have not had enough to eat


These are the people who have been out of work for 26 weeks or more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and whose benefits have been subject to an unending game of political football. (The government does not count the over 700,000 "discouraged" workers who've stopped look for work.) Although 44 percent of the long-term jobless said they look for work every day, 30 percent of them haven't been on a job interview in a year, according to a new survey by Careerbuilder. While the economy slowly recovers, making back only a small fraction of the jobs it would if growth were healthy, these Americans are shut out from many opportunities simply because they have not been employed recently. Employers worry that they are damaged goods because no one else has hired them or because their skills have eroded.

Learn more about how the tremendous loss of income has affected the long-term unemployed in the infographic below.

Common Job Application Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Build a solid application from resume to cover letter

Stressed Businessman with Head in Hands Looking PC
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By Michelle Filippini

In today's tight job market, many candidates focus their attention on acing the interview, and perhaps rightly so. While it's true the interview is often the do-or-die moment when employers decide whether they think you're a good fit for the position, you first have to land that interview. Don't derail the process before it begins. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid when applying for jobs so that you can advance to that next crucial step in the process -- making it to the hot seat.

Don't mess up the application
Most employers have their own unique application form that candidates must fill out and submit along with their résumé and cover letter. Here are some simple rules to follow when tackling these preliminary questions:      
  • Apply only if you meet the minimum qualifications. You're not going to possess every skill listed in a job announcement -- and employers don't expect that -- but don't waste everyone's time if, for example, you're a recent college graduate applying for a position that requires four years of professional experience, or someone with a GED applying for a job that requires a college degree.
  • Prepare in advance of filling out the application. Job applications typically require information involving one's work history and references, which may require some archival digging and research on your part. Having that information on hand before you begin filling out the application will help the process go more smoothly -- and quickly.
  • Follow the directions. This might seem like a no-brainer, but you could be eliminated at the preliminary screening phase simply by not following formatting requirements or signing the application if it requires a signature.
  • Re-read your application for spelling, punctuation or grammar mistakes. Some find that reading it out loud is also helpful, as the ear can often make the best editor. Don't rely solely on spell check.
  • Don't substitute your résumé for the requested job application form. Yes, applications can be time-consuming and tedious to fill out. That's because they generally ask for information not found on résumés -- detailed information specific to the position and company you're applying to.

Cover letter faux pas
Even if it's not requested, include a cover letter with your job application. Failing to include this would be a missed opportunity on your part. Here are some other dos and don'ts:

  • Don't address your cover letter "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern." Doing so indicates a lack of effort on your part to find out the name of the person you're contacting (much less his or her gender) and is likely to earn your application a place in the circular file. If in the unlikely event the name or gender of the contact person is impossible to locate, then a "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [name of department] Director" may suffice in lieu of a real name.
  • Don't be a comedian. Your friends may appreciate your puns, wit and thinly veiled sarcasm, but the person reading your letter wants to know why you've applied for the job. Leave the stand-up for your Facebook posts.
  • Do talk about what you can bring to the company, not just how excited you are for the opportunity. How will you be able to make your new boss's life easier, for instance? Make your cover letter work for you by explicating your specific skills, experience, and accomplishments.

Do include your phone number, along with all other pertinent contact information, in your cover letter. Even if this information already appears on your résumé, you'll want to also include it in your cover letter in case the two get separated.

Résumé misfires
Finally, the résumé -- so important and yet so often the victim of its creator's desire to have it stand out in the stack. According to a CareerBuilder survey, employers cited the following as the most common résumé mistakes that could result in a candidate's automatic dismissal in the application process.
  • Typos in résumé. Correct punctuation and grammar are also important.
  • Generic résumés that aren't tailored for the position. Résumés should be personalized for the specific job that is being applied for -- you'll want to highlight those skills you have that match the position description and downplay those that don't.
  • Résumés lacking a listing of skills. Employers will want to easily see what it is that you've been doing at your previous jobs.
  • Exact wording from the job posting used in résumé. Yes, you want to personalize your résumé for the job advertised, but don't just copy and paste the job description verbatim or use all of the ad's keywords.
  • Wrong email address listed on résumé. Nothing will frustrate a potential employer more than having an email returned undeliverable due to "address unknown." And, not all employers want (or have the time) to pick up the phone to call you.
  • Exact dates of employment not included on résumé. Not including the actual dates you were employed at a specific company could be a red flag and a cause for suspicion on the employer's part. If your résumé has gaps in employment, it's likely that you'll have the opportunity to address this at the appropriate time.
  • Decorative paper used for résumé. Keep the design simple and the paper white. A résumé shouldn't be viewed as an opportunity to demonstrate how well you excel in "thinking outside of the box."
  • Photo included with résumé. It doesn't matter if it's the best, most professional-looking picture you've ever taken or the most adorable picture of your puppy. Just don't do it.

How to turn that internship into a full-time job

By

Internship to full time job
You landed an internship, and that means the job search is finally over. Well, for a few months, anyway. After your internship ends, you’ll be right back in the thick of it, submitting applications and setting up endless rounds of interviews. Unless you get offered a full-time position at the company you’re interning with, that is. While this is not always an option, many companies prefer to promote from within, and you’ve already got your foot in the door.
If you’re hoping to make the leap from intern to employee, here are several things to keep in mind:
Dress the part
Maybe you could get away with T-shirts at your summer job at school, but this is the real world. If you want to be taken seriously, you have to show that you’re taking the internship seriously. Early on, if you’re unsure of the office’s dress code, aim to overdress. Then, as you become more comfortable with the expectations around the office, do your best to fit in with the office style. Stand out through your work, not through your wardrobe.
Act the part
An internship can be viewed as a long job interview. You want to continually be putting your best foot forward, but this doesn’t mean you must be absolutely serious for the entirety of your internship. Your ability to mesh with the corporate culture and your immediate co-workers can be a factor in whether you’ll get that full-time position. Your goal is to work there full time, so be someone with whom your co-workers like spending time.
Ask questions
There is a crucial difference between asking a lot of questions and asking the right questions. Asking a lot of questions might come off as fake interest or simply annoying, whereas asking the right questions shows that you have genuine interest in how things are done and want to be a productive member of the team. If there’s something you want to know that could help you perform better, don’t hesitate to speak up.
Know where you stand
Open communication is essential for any business relationship and is an important step in gaining full-time employment. Ask for feedback from your colleagues and boss on how you’re performing and where you could be improving. Be forthright in asking about the potential for transferring to full-time status. This not only lets you know where you stand, but it also lets your employer know that you’re looking for a job and are serious about staying.
Recover quickly
You are going to make mistakes. That’s part of the learning process, which is ultimately what internships are all about. What really makes interns stand out is how they recover from an error. When you make a mistake, bounce back quickly. Apologize, ask questions to be sure you fully understand what you should have done differently, and then be sure not to make the same mistake again. Employers like to see that you’re willing to roll with the punches and learn from your mistakes.