Six Moves to Make More Money

Kate Lorenz,

So you've been with your company for a while and have been exceeding all of your manager's expectations. You work hard, are a great team player, come up with new ideas to take the business further and are an all-around joy in the workplace.

If you haven't been promoted or been bumped up in salary automatically, it might be time to take the bull by the horns and approach this topic yourself. While asking for a raise makes many people uncomfortable and nervous, the situation can be a breeze if handled correctly.

The following are a few steps to follow to make sure your request does not fall on deaf ears:

1. Do your research.
Like any other element of your career, it all starts with research. In order to present your manager with a compelling case in your favor, you need to know what the going rate is for someone with your experience and in your position. You can find out what others in your industry and in comparable positions are raking in by looking at online resources, through the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or in books like The American Almanac of Jobs and Salaries by John W. Wright (Quill).

2. Outline a case for yourself.
When going into any kind of negotiation session, you need to be equipped with the right amount of ammunition. Before you walk into your meeting, look back at your time with the company and highlight your accomplishments. Come up with a list of specific examples of ways you have been a valuable asset to the business. Find facts and figures that demonstrate that you have excelled, using numbers whenever possible. For example, if you developed a marketing plan that helped increase sales, make sure you have those sales figures on hand, as well as your role in the plan and its execution. Be sure to tie your own success into the overall success of the company. If you really want to knock their socks off, put your accomplishments into a formal presentation, albeit brief, that outlines each of your goals and how you have achieved them. This will demonstrate that you are professional, willing to go the extra mile, and have thought about your request thoroughly.

3. Know what's going on in your neighborhood.
There are good times and bad times to ask for a raise at any company. If you approach your manager for a raise in a time of downsizing and cost cutting, you will not only be denied, but will also show that you are not in tune with the company's needs. Make sure you understand your company's overall financial situation.

4. Schedule ample time to present your case, and make sure your timing is right.
Asking for a raise on the fly after just walking into your manager's office to chat will not benefit you or impress your boss. Make sure you have time to present your case, and that your manager has time to think about your presentation. Request a meeting with your supervisor, at least a half-hour long. Think about your timing when you schedule the meeting, too. If your department has a bevy of deadlines to meet at the end of each month, don't schedule your meeting on the 29th. Pick a time when your manager will be sure to be in a good mood and not overly stressed.

5. Avoid threats or demands.
The last thing you want to do is put your supervisor on the defensive. Going into a meeting with the "if I don't get it, I'm leaving" attitude will only tell your company you are uncompromising and only out for number one. Be professional and, if your job is worth keeping, willing to listen to the other side. Keep the meeting positive and your outcome will be more positive.

6. Remember that not all perks are monetary.
If your company is strapped financially but you and your manager still come to the conclusion that it is time for you to be rewarded for your performance, you might be able to negotiate for other perks, such as stock options, more vacation time or other non-monetary benefits. Don't fall into the trap of thinking you are not valued if you do not get exactly what you had expected. 

 

 

 

 

Source: careerbuilder

How to get a face-to-face interview

Dewey Sadka,

Getting interviews? If not, perhaps it's time you learned how others are meeting HR decision makers. Here are some effective but indirect ways to get noticed by the people who can get you hired.

Best Referrals Are a Friend of a Friend
Ask friends, "Do you know anyone who might know someone?" Then, don't be afraid to discuss your job search wherever you go-at the gym, church, ballgames, parties, social media and so forth. When the opportunity presents itself, be open and honest about what you're looking for.

Attend Association Meetings In Your Field
Search for associations in your career field and attend their meetings and networking events. Meet and greet potential employers and other professionals. When you walk into the room, look around and see who is there and who could help you. But be equally generous and see if there are people whom you can help, too.

Find Your Social Media Fit
For example, advertising and branding companies might prefer Twitter. . "Soft sell" your skills by telling them what you dream of doing and having some interaction with the company, even if it's with the social media community manager. Since your career is relevant to the brand, you could find support.

Referral Do's & Don'ts
When finding the right people to refer you, especially at a networking event, avoid pitfalls by being the person they want to give support.

1. Don't be nervous or shy. Smile. Keep it light. Others will see you as confident.

2. Don't make it all about you. After saying hello, get them to talk about themselves. Listen for how you can support them.

3. Don't ask for a job. Chances are even if they work at the perfect company for you, they're not the decision maker.  And if they are, don't put them under pressure. Remember they'll need approvals from others.

How Do You Win Support?
Now that you've created an open listening, here's what to do.

1. Do speak with enthusiasm about the job/career you're seeking.  Ask for a business card. Then ask, "Do you know anyone that you can refer me too?" 

2. Do end the meet-up by looking them right in the eye, giving a thank-you handshake and sending a résumé right away.

3. Do send them industry articles. Take their advice and tell them how you did it. If they're not sure about your experience, offer to work as an intern or for a smaller salary.

What If It's Not Working?
Perhaps it time to transition into a more in-demand field?

1. Apply for a related more in-demand occupation. Look online for career niches or specialties within your chosen field.

2. Search them on BLS.gov. Click on similar occupations.

3. Consider getting more opportunity and pay with a certification course or additional training.

Customize and Critique Your Resume
Brand your résumé by customizing it to fit the job. After you've developed three or four. You'll find you can use them over and over.

What's Your Hire-Ability Value?
Before you start, ask yourself these bottom-line questions.

1. "Where in the marketplace are my skills and experience most valuable?"

Maybe you can focus on less competitive areas with more job openings to get your foot in the door while still utilizing your talents and getting noticed.  

2. "What can I do to emphasize that I'm the most desirable job fit?"

3. "How can I overcome a no-hire weakness?"

For example, offer employers in the cover letter, "I'm willing to work as an intern to gain experience and skills."   

Would You Hire You? 
Get to know the company and any of its key personnel beyond the job description. Check out the website. Research the company online. The more you know, the more you can target your résumé to overcome rejections.

Are You Emphasizing Your Assets? 
Add more emphasis on the skills that match their requirements. Elaborate more on the duties and accomplishments that they will find desirable. Then, adapt your goal and job description's wording so it's clear you and the employer want the same thing.

Are You Using Their Words?
Words can be misleading. Each industry is different.  Rewrite your past experiences to better fit. Wherever possible use the words in their job posting to customize your résumé. Take out what's not related without showing an employment record gap.

Your Final Resume Critique
Now, take a break to clear your head. Then review your résumé. Will it grab the employer's attention in 10 seconds? If not, what else can you do?

Source: careerbuilder

Enlisting a Recruiter: Five Tips

Mark Krajnik,

One effective approach to finding your next career opportunity would be to find a recruiter that specializes in your marketplace to align with as you begin your search. There are literally thousands of recruiters out there, so how do you choose wisely? You can work exclusively with one recruiter, or align with several recruiters; either way, you want to give yourself the best opportunity to find that perfect career opportunity.

Here are five questions to consider before making your selection:  

Do they have a niche?
The first, and most important thing to consider is, "Does the recruiter have a specific niche marketplace that he or she focuses on?" Every recruiter knows that the more focused they are in a specific vertical, the better opportunity they have to capture that marketplace and create synergistic relationships on both the candidate and client sides. Have the recruiter list the most recent searches that they (not their office or team) have successfully completed. You want to align with an industry insider, not just another recruiter chasing a fee. Ask for references from a current relationship from both the candidate and client sides.

Do they listen effectively?
Any peak performer in the recruiting world knows it's not about them. It's actually about you and the client. Are they willing to listen to your concerns, what is driving you away from your current situation, what needs exist for you and your family? If not, move on. Top level recruiters are often the best listeners, and this allows them to provide better matches with their existing openings.

Are they too busy?
Top level recruiters are often extremely busy. They typically have more job orders than they have time to fill, and are constantly looking for the "perfect" candidate to fill a need. Is he or she willing to spend the necessary time to gather a complete picture of your current situation? Does she have the time to invest in your career search? If not, when is a better time? There are only so many hours in a day, and just like you, the top level recruiters like to have a balance between work and home.

How's their follow-through?
Does the recruiter do what he says he will do? If he set an appointment on your calendar, is he dependable? Or does he consistently have to reschedule because "something came up?" Be certain that you partner with a recruiter who will respect your time and confidentiality throughout the entire process.

Will you work with them beyond this current search?
Is this just a means to an end or does it hold promise for a continued relationship beyond your next career move? If it's transactional, and the recruiter has what you want, then go for it. Carpe diem. But, you should consider this to be the beginning of a long-term, mutually beneficial business relationship. With that methodology, you may become their hiring manager down the road. They will become an invaluable resource to you as your career takes off. By knowing the answers to the five questions above, you are in a better position knowing that you have a qualified and effective partner on your team.

Source: careerbuilder

Handling a Recession's Effect on Your Career

Robert Half International

 

In a recession, one thing is certain: Change is coming, especially as firms tighten their belts, reorganize, merge with other companies or close. Needless to say, preparing yourself for these types of transitions is crucial to your career success. Here are some of the changes you may experience during this recession and how to handle them: 

New prioritiesAs organizations come to understand the new economic reality, projects that create immediate revenue will become the focus. So, a long-delayed product launch may immediately shift to the front burner. Since resources will be needed for these revenue generators, you may find yourself moved quickly onto new projects. Therefore, it's important you remain flexible and work with your manager to identify assignments that most impact the bottom line.

Added responsibility
Some companies may need to reduce head count while others may implement a hiring freeze. In either situation, remaining staff members will likely be asked to take on additional work. Some of these responsibilities may fall outside your normal role, so show a willingness to learn new skills. Your firm may even offer to subsidize training, so inquire with your manager about what the organization provides. In addition, identify tasks that can either be delegated or put on hold while you tackle any extra duties you've been assigned.

Internal moves
Companies that are set on filling open positions may decide to look internally to reduce the cost of recruiting new talent. That means there could be an opportunity for you to advance within your organization. If your firm does not have a formal process for posting internal openings, maintain a strong network of contacts within the organization so you can learn about vacant roles. Make sure your network includes individuals outside your department and at different levels of responsibility. Speak to your manager about specific positions that interest you; he or she can help you learn more about the job or provide support for your campaign.  

More reporting
When finances are tight, managers need to take a closer look at how money is being spent. Don't be surprised if you're asked to provide detailed reports on how many hours a project takes and the cost involved. By carefully tracking that information, you'll be prepared should your boss request it. Also, look for ways to save the firm money or improve efficiencies. Being proactive with these types of recommendations will show your manager that you have a big-picture mind-set.

Fewer perks
Whether it's scaled-down celebrations, smaller bonuses or an end to free doughnuts on Monday, don't be surprised if some of the perks your firm has traditionally offered are sacrificed in an effort to reduce costs. Even if you've grown accustomed to these extras, don't let the changes negatively affect your mood. Understand that sacrifices need to be made in order to ride out this economic storm.

Layoffs
The unfortunate reality is that some businesses may need to let people go. No one wants to think about that possibility, but you should be prepared nonetheless, especially if you know that your firm is struggling. Make sure your résumé is current, noting how you've added value to your company, and increase your networking activities so you're ready should you find yourself suddenly forced to find a new position.

The current recession poses a number of challenges for not only job seekers but also those who are employed. Keep in mind, though, that the economic downturn can also present you with opportunity. Changes made within your organization may allow you to build marketable skills, take on new assignments or even prepare for future advancement. And by being flexible and open-minded, you'll demonstrate your ability to deal with any hurdle that comes your way.

Source: careerbuilder

Q4 job outlook mirrors pre-recession hiring

As we head into the last few months of the year, a time when companies are often the most cautious with hiring plans, signs are pointing to a positive quarter for job seekers. According to CareerBuilder's latest job forecast, 26 percent of employers surveyed plan to add full-time, permanent staff in the next three months, up five percentage points from 2011 and closely mirroring pre-recession estimates of 27 percent.
This is the most optimistic fourth-quarter projection since 2007, and since companies historically have been more conservative in their hiring estimates than actual hiring activity, these figures could end up even higher. Throughout the first three quarters of 2012, the country has experienced slow but steady job growth, and these numbers show that the economy is laying a solid foundation for stronger job creation in 2013.

Q3 hiring up from 2011

Looking back at the third quarter, hiring activity improved from a year prior. According to the CareerBuilder study, 32 percent of companies added full-time, permanent employees, up from 26 percent in 2011. Twelve percent cut jobs, on par with last year (11 percent). Fifty-six percent made no change to employee levels.

Temporary hiring continues to increase

One indication that economic uncertainty still exists among employers is the continued move toward temporary hiring. Temporary employees are accounting for a larger proportion of the employment mix, with 38 percent of employers hiring temporary or contract workers in Q3, up from 32 percent last year.
We'll see this trend continue in Q4, as 33 percent plan to hire temporary workers throughout the next few months. However, this may partially reflect hiring needs for the upcoming holiday season. What's more, some companies that weren't ready to take on permanent employees earlier in the year may do so in the fourth quarter; 23 percent are planning to transition some contract or temporary staff into permanent employees in Q4, up from 17 percent last year.

Hiring by company size, region

Hiring is up from last year among companies of all sizes, increasing by at least four percentage points year-over-year across the board. The biggest companies -- those with 500-plus employees -- plan to hire the most workers; 34 percent expect to add full-time employees in Q4, up from 27 percent last year. Small businesses with 50 or fewer employees are the most conservative, with 16 percent expecting to add employees in the fourth quarter. However, this number is up from 12 percent last year.
The latest regional employment numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the West continues to record the highest regional unemployment rate, at 9.4 percent in August, but this number is a marked decrease from 10.4 percent a year prior. This continued job creation is reflected in CareerBuilder's forecast, with 31 percent of employers in the West planning to add full-time, permanent staff in Q4, more than any in other region.

Election effect

As we head into the final months of 2012, there are still many variables, including the presidential election and the European debt crisis, which could change the course of the job market. In fact, 22 percent of employers said the outcome of the election would likely affect their pace of hiring in 2013, while 48 percent said it would have no impact and 30 percent were uncertain.

Job turnover increasing as worker confidence grows
Perhaps one of the strongest indications of an improving economy is the growth of consumer confidence. Workers are becoming more confident that jobs are available, and they're pursuing other opportunities. Eighteen percent of hiring managers reported that top performers left their organization in the third quarter, while 26 percent of workers plan to change jobs in the next 12 months. The top positions companies cite as having the most turnover include sales representatives, administrative assistants, information-technology managers/network administrators, engineers and customer-service representatives.
In addition, workers are being more selective about the job offers they accept. Half of employers who extended a job offer in the past year reported that a candidate rejected the offer, primarily attributed to candidates taking another offer or the company not meeting their desired salary.
With job seekers feeling more confident in their job search and negotiations, and employers looking to hire at pre-recession levels, the final quarter of 2012 looks to be a step in the right direction for workers and businesses alike.


Source: careerbuilder

Is fear stalling your career?

Sometimes you can be your own worst enemy -- especially when it comes to progressing in your career. Most people fear certain things, such as a change in their role or facing rejection when vying for a promotion, which can affect their ability to move up.

Think fears might be holding back your career? Here are common worries that can hurt your career and how to move past them: 

Fear of failure

Fear of failure can creep in at any moment and paralyze your success at work.

"We occasionally encounter job seekers who are so concerned about failing, they refuse to take on additional projects, challenges or new positions because they're afraid they will make a mistake," says Jessica Hernandez, president of Great Résumés Fast.

To help build self-assurance, Hernandez suggests that candidates who are afraid of failure should "start out small, taking on new challenges and tasks that aren't as intimidating and gradually build up their confidence to tackle larger projects as they come along."

Fear of rejection

Whether you're afraid to flunk a job interview or to ask for a promotion, being afraid to get "no" as an answer can keep you from even trying to move ahead. Job seekers can be especially sensitive to rejection.

"For job seekers, rejection means that they have failed in some way, regardless of whether the company was a good fit to begin with," says Anthony Morrison, vice president of employer solutions at Cachinko, a job referral firm for Facebook users. No matter where you are in your career, think of rejection as a learning experience that will help you improve your job-search strategy, Morrison suggests. 

Fear of change

Approaching your career with a don't-fix-what's-not-broken mentality can be a negative. While dealing with change can be difficult, being afraid of change can equal missed opportunities.

Fear of change "holds a candidate back, because they'll never step out and take the promotion or accept a better opportunity with another company," Hernandez says. "It can potentially reduce a person's growth potential and their lifetime income by thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars."

Fear of relocation

A side effect of our slow economy has been that job seekers have had to be more open in terms of where they will work, and that can be scary for workers who have families or who have lived in one area all of their lives.

If you're considering a job in another city or region, don't let fear stop you from a potential opportunity. You might really enjoy your new location, or you may find that your employer is open to you telecommuting.

"Candidates looking for jobs should be open to doing interviews via Skype and the possibility of telecommuting, temporarily or permanently," says Morgan Norman, founder of WorkSimple, a social goal management program. Don't be afraid to look outside of your geographical area. If companies think a particular candidate is a good fit, it may be possible to arrange a way to do some work remotely, he says. 

Fear of taking on a leadership role

Hiding in a cubicle is easier than speaking in a boardroom, and that's one reason some may be afraid of moving into a management role. While increased job responsibility can sometimes be overwhelming, the positive outweighs the negative, says James Alexander, founder of Vizibility, a personal branding platform provider.

Not reaching for more opportunities can set you back in the long run.

"In order to progress professionally, it's important to take on [tasks] that you may not always be comfortable with," Alexander says.

Fear of losing work-life balance

To some employees, a more prestigious job title or starting at a different firm just means more time spent away from the home. But fearing that increased job responsibilities will disturb your work-life balance can set you back in the long run.

Instead of staying under the radar, think of the perks: better pay, higher role, etc. Taking a risk with a new position doesn't need to mean you'll be at work 24-7. You can always talk to your manager about ways to create more balance (working from home once a week, coming in early so you can leave a little early to pick up your kids from school) once you've started, but don't discount the job or role just because fears creep up. 

Fear of changing industries

Switching industries can be another fear for job seekers who are used to working within one particular industry. Often, the fear is unfounded, and it's important to apply wherever your skills are needed.

"These job seekers should know that many skills are not only needed, but also transferable within different fields," Alexander says. "Do your research and try to connect with human resources professionals to gain a better understanding of the position. That way, you'll have a better idea of where you can apply your skill set within the organization." 

Source: careerbuilder

America at age 24: An education and employment snapshot

Studies are often conducted to get a glimpse into the behaviors and characteristics of a certain population subset. Yet while these studies provide interesting insight, they don't always give us the full picture since they often represent only one moment in time.

That's why the Bureau of Labor Statistic's National Longitudinal Survey of Youth in 1997 is so fascinating. Findings from the study -- called longitudinal because it follows the same group of people over time -- were just released on the education and employment experiences of Americans at age 24. The study follows a nationally representative sample of approximately 9,000 men and women who were born between 1980 and 1984, were 12 to 17 when first interviewed in 1997, and were 24 to 30 when interviewed for the 13th time in 2009-2010. The recently released data are from this 13th round of interviews.

Here's a recap of some of the most compelling results:

• Bachelor's degree attainment over three-year span: Twenty-three percent of young adults had secured a bachelor's degree or more by the October when they were 24. That compares with 18.7 percent who had done so by the October when they were 23 and 9.7 percent who had done so the October when they were 22.

• Education gap between men and women: According to the data, nearly 28 percent of women had received a bachelor's degree by the October when they were 24. That was 9 percentage points higher than men; only 19 percent of them had received their degree by that age.

• Military versus post-secondary education: Seven percent of male high-school graduates who had never enrolled in college were in the U.S. Armed Forces during the October when they were 24, as were 7 percent of the 24-year-old men who had attended college but had not earned a bachelor's degree and were no longer enrolled.

• Education and ethnicity: Non-Hispanic whites are nearly three times as likely as Hispanics or Latinos to have received their bachelor's degree at age 24. Twenty-eight percent of non-Hispanic whites had received their bachelor's degree, compared with 11 percent of non-Hispanic blacks and 10 percent of Hispanics or Latinos.

• Average number of jobs held: In looking at work experience, those born from 1980-1984 held an average of 5.4 jobs from ages 18 to 24. From a gender perspective, men held an average of 5.1 jobs, while women held an average of 5.6.

• Relationship between high-school graduation and employment: By the time they turned 25, 6 percent of the young adults who had not received a high-school diploma had never held a job since turning 18. 

Source: careerbuilder

Retiree Job Trends

For baby boomers, a funny thing is happening on the way to retirement: more work. Although this generation of forty- through sixty-somethings is nearing what was once the traditional retirement age, their futures are filled with more paychecks and less leisure. Some will keep working to keep busy. Others can't afford to quit. What you're left with is a work force with an unusually large amount of older workers changing the rules of retirement. 

Boomers who aren't retiring have plenty of options

If baby boomers were following the patterns of their parents and the generations before them, they would be at home indulging in their favorite hobbies or relaxing near a beach. However, in much the same way they revolutionized cultural norms in their youth, boomers are redefining the concept of retirement.

How? By not retiring -- at least not in the traditional sense. Workers in their late 50s or older are choosing different paths, or creating them, rather.

Christine Moriarty, a certified financial planner, sees would-be retirees fitting into one of three categories. First, entrepreneurs who have the financial security to retire but don't want to leave a job they love. Then there are those workers who do leave their jobs in order to pursue a lifelong passion, also known as "encore careers." Finally, there are workers who keep working due to inertia -- they don't know what else to do, so they keep showing up for work.

Of course, traditional retirees who stop working and pass the time with their favorite activities still exist. You just might find fewer of them in the coming years. According to a MetLife Foundation/Civic Ventures Encore Career Survey, 79 percent of boomers between 50 and 59 intend to work past the traditional retirement age for the pay and benefits. Only 64 percent of boomers between 60 and 70 have the same plans, a sign that the younger boomers are not ready to move on.

Why now?

We're living longer now than before and need something to keep us busy. An American born in 1950 was expected to live to be 68 years old while the average person born in 2005 will live to be almost 78, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retiring at 55 leaves you with plenty of time to fill, a fact that Nancy Merz Nordstrom understands.

"I was a typical wife, mother of four and a secretary, until I was unexpectedly widowed at age 48. At age 51, I went to college. At age 53, I found my life's work," she says. She got remarried, became the director of Elderhostel Institute Network, an educational network for older adults. "At age 61, I wrote my first book. And today, at age 63, I'm busier than ever with my career and family."

In addition to having all that extra time to work, workers with longer life expectancies have more opportunity to accrue bills. Daily needs like food and taxes won't ever disappear. Add to that the cost of medications and doctor's visits and living longer becomes a pricey privilege.

What are your options?

Millions of mature employees who want to keep working decide to leave the familiar behind and venture into new territory. More than 50 percent of encore career workers have left professional and management careers and 30 percent are now in education, according to the Encore Career Survey.

Plenty of workers are staying in their field and bringing their decades of knowledge and experience with them. One of the most popular paths for an encore career is that of a consultant. Companies hire a consultant to examine their business practices and look for ways to improve efficiency and remain competitive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the amount of consultants will increase 22 percent between 2006 and 2016.

Consulting can be part-time or contract work, allowing mature workers to strike a balance between work and retirement. Thanks to technology, consultants are part of the growing number of employees who work remotely, a workplace trend initiated by younger workers but benefitting everyone. The freedom to work from home lets mature workers travel or move without quitting their jobs.

"This is already happening today," says Ilya Bogorad of the Bizvortex Consulting Group, a management consulting company. "It is likely that in the very near future corporate HR departments will have to learn how to work with distributed teams composed of such consultants."

Source: careerbuilder

Confessions of Hiring Experts

If you worry about every possible way you can blow a job interview -- from mispronouncing the boss's name to babbling incessantly when you don't know what else to say -- you're going to walk in there feeling like you're destined to fail.  True, job interviews are rife with opportunities for you to embarrass yourself, but hiring managers are more forgiving than you might think.

We consulted some hiring experts about what is really going on inside their heads when interviewing job applicants.  They offered the following insights: 

They like you -- they really like you
"I tend to walk into every interview wanting to hire that person," says Christine Peterson, Senior Vice President of Marketing for TripAdvisor.  In addition to having the right skills and experience, she says, candidates who come across as "nice, smart and fun...are going to have to work pretty hard to convince me NOT to hire them," Peterson says.  She's seen her fair share of applicants who didn't meet these standards, including one otherwise-qualified candidate who was cut from consideration after she insisted that the receptionist who greeted her for her interview throw out a perfectly good pot of coffee and make her a fresh pot.  While Peterson is willing to give most applicants the benefit of the doubt -- after all, they put in the time and effort to submit an application and come in for an interview -- she believes no amount of qualifications will make up for "jerkness."

They don't want to hear what you think they want to hear
"Interviewers have gotten very smart to pick up if someone's saying just what a book is telling them to say," says Mary Gormandy White, a professional consultant in Mobile Ala..  By only saying what they think the employer wants to hear, job candidates are simply putting on an act, and employers can see right through that.  "You have to be yourself in an interview and you have to be sincere," she says. 

They don't expect you to have all the answers
"Employers are more interested in how you find answers to things you don't know than in having you pretend to know something you don't," says Linda Finkle, executive coach at a management consulting firm based in Potomac, Md.  In some cases, she says, the interviewer may ask a question that he or she doesn't expect you to be able to answer simply to see how you handle it.  If you ever find that you don't know the answer to an interviewer's question, the best thing to do is to admit that you don't know, but either add that you could give an educated guess or provide a way you might go about finding the answer.  Most importantly, if you don't know, don't try to fake it.  "Not knowing is OK.  Making something up or pretending to know is not," Finkle says.  

They want you to want them
According to Michele Minten, director of Centralized Recruiting for a Chicago-based recruiting company, one of the worst things a job candidate can do is not express genuine interest in the job or the company.  As much as the recruiter wants to sell the candidate on the position and company, he or she also wants to know that the candidate actually wants to work in that position or for that company.  Peterson agrees.  "When I hear applicants expressing energy and enthusiasm for our company and our product, I want to hire them," she says.

 

 

 

 

 

Source: careerbuilder

How to keep networking during summer vacation

For many people, regardless of age, summer is a time when work is low on your list of priorities. Perhaps all those years of three-month summer vacations as young students conditioned us to think of June, July, and August as reprieves from using our brain. Even many offices let their workers leave early on Fridays during the summer.

For job seekers, the summer months can be particularly troublesome due to several factors. Aside from wishing they were outside sunning at the pool rather than inside typing up a résumé, many job seekers have children at home for three months and need to entertain them. Not to mention scheduling conflicts of the employers who are off at some resort enjoying the sun and don't have time for interviews. Despite these problems, however, summer isn't a lost cause for job seeking.

Why summer is a good time to job hunt
"Conducting a job search during the summer can be tricky, and it is important to avoid the biggest hazards for job seekers during the summertime -- timing and schedules," says Patty Coffey, a partner in the information technology division of staffing firm Winter, Wyman. "Candidates shouldn't feel discouraged if the interview process takes extra time, and those who can withstand a longer process may just find that perfect job."

In fact, Coffey offers these five tips for job seekers to keep in mind during the summer:

Some industries slow down in summer
"Employees of many companies may actually have more time to interview candidates in the summer, when they aren't on vacation, because it isn't a busy time for their organization," she explains.

Don't assume no one's hiring
"Companies still need to hire even when it is 95 degrees outside," Coffey reminds. "If you stop your job search, you could miss out on some great opportunities. And you may face less competition if other job seekers are buying into the summer slowdown myth."

Be prepared to act quickly
"While summer vacation schedules can prolong the interview process, they can also expedite it," she cautions. "If the schedules of all involved align, companies will speed up interviews -- to even just one day -- to avoid the complexity of scheduling multiple meetings."

Starting in the summer gives you more breathing room"Summertime is typically a less hectic time to transition to a new job. Prospects can get acquainted with the company when fewer people are in the office and things are slower. It can also be less traumatic for families if a move is involved, since children wouldn't have to switch schools mid-year," Coffey says.

Use summer hours to your advantage
"Many companies have a more lax schedule in July and August," she reminds. "Bosses are often on vacation or may take a long lunch, so employees can slip away unnoticed. Vacation days are more accepted -- boss won't think it is odd if you take a vacation day or two in August. In fact, you could even consider taking a 'job search vacation' where you conduct a week-long blitz of intense searching and interviewing."

How to network and make connections in the summer
Now that you know summer is the perfect time to job hunt, and maybe even the secret to landing a job while everyone else has given up, you need to know how to do it. We asked some career experts to give their best advice for making the most of summer picnics and sports games in order to advance your career. Here's what they think you should be doing:

"At the summer barbecue or pool party, networkers should listen as well as talk. Listening establishes rapport and people are more likely to help you when they feel listened to. Job seekers should never say, 'I'm unemployed.' It sounds passive and negative. If you are networking and not employed, the best thing to say is 'I'm in [a] career transition.' It puts you in the driver's seat. If you were caught in a downsizing, never say 'I lost my job' or 'I was laid off.' Instead say, 'My position was downsized' or 'my department was eliminated.' Then, it sound less like the layoff was about you and more like it was about the financial operations of the company." - Marky Stein, career coach and author of "Fearless Resumes: The Proven Method to Get a Great Job Fast"

"The challenge of summer networking is that so many of the venues and places are outside. Most of us are not walking around with our briefcases and resumes in hand. We forget that these summer places offer real opportunities.

"[My] Best advice: Keep your business cards with you wherever you go -- in your pocket or wallet or glove compartment of your car. If you have a smartphone, learn to use it by immediately uploading a new contact into it and beaming your contact info to the person you have just met. Be careful: since these are usually social or recreational, do not come across as too pushy. Keep it low key!" - Larry Chiagouris, professor of marketing at Pace University

"The best thing about networking [at picnics, softball leagues or tennis matches] is people get to know the real you, the person behind the suit, the face and the personality. Be yourself! And connect with them on LinkedIn.

"Considering most conversations either begin or end up focusing on what you do for a living, have that elevator speech planned but don't sound too canned. Bring business cards or connect with new contacts on LinkedIn but know going into it what you're looking for. Identify what you want such as a company you want to work for and/or specific jobs and put yourself in the position to ask new contacts for help." - Vicki Salemi, author of "Big Career in the Big City"

"At times, professionals forget the conversation starters and ways to look for making connections to build their networking. Ask probing questions to find out more about the other person. Don't talk all business but ask them about their personal interests outside of work, their family, their occupation and what made them select that industry, where they like to vacation and what are their dreams and aspirations. When you find a common connection that is when the real magic begins to happen.

"I challenge people to keep asking questions on various topics until they find a common interest. I've personally done this and found people who attended the same university, from the same home town or like to vacation in the same type of relaxing vacations. This is how to build a professional network that can lead to long-term rapport." - Sarah Hathorn, CEO of Illustra Consulting, a corporate and individual professional consulting firm

Source: careerbuilder

How to escape an awkward networking conversation

There's nothing worse than being stuck in an awkward conversation at a party with no escape. After several painful minutes of talking about the weather and the latest football game, you finally blurt out, "I have to go to the bathroom!" and quickly run away.

You can find yourself in the same situation at a networking event. Except at these, you have no choice but to act polite and professional, because important career relationships may be at stake. Conversations can hit just as much of a dead end, and without having a clear exit strategy, you may waste valuable networking time.

"The secret to exiting an awkward networking conversation is the same as the secret to getting out of anything you don't want to do: preparation," says Robby Slaughter, author of "The Unbeatable Recipe for Networking Events." Following this sage advice, here are some tactics for escaping those uncomfortable exchanges and coming out with your career connections intact.

The bait and switch
Want to get out of a conversation while still appearing helpful? Try handing the person off to someone else who is better suited to chat. "Use the downtime in the conversation to ask the person what they are hoping to get from the networking event, and facilitate an introduction to someone else who can help them," says Kristi Hedges, executive coach, leadership development consultant and author of "The Power of Presence." "For example, if they're looking for a job, introduce them to a recruiting friend or someone who has just found a job. When they are situated, you can warmly excuse yourself in order to catch up with some other folks there."

The concerned conversationalist
When you've reached the point of no return in a networking conversation, make ending the conversation about the other person -- how you must be keeping him from other important people, places or events. But be sure to close with a clear parting statement so there's less of a chance for lingering.
Sheila C. Sheley, president of Sheley Marketing, suggests using one of these lines:

• "You probably want to find a seat before they start the presentation. I hope you enjoy it."


• "You should get in that line for the bar before it gets too long, and I should go return a call from my office. Nice chatting with you."


• "I'm sure there are other people here that you want to meet, so I'll let you continue your networking. Have a nice evening."

The open-ended closer
Another conundrum that comes along with networking is the inevitable exchange of business cards and the promise to keep in touch. But what if you don't really want to reconnect?  "If the other person wants to continue talking later, but you aren't interested, sometimes you can respond as if you assume it is a general expression of interest and not a specific request," Sheley says. "You could respond with something like, 'Yes, it was nice talking to you, too. I'm sure we'll run into each other at another one of these events,' or 'Perhaps our paths will cross again soon and we can talk more about that.'"

The "It's not you, it's me" approach
The risk you run with "the open-ended closer" is that you're still leaving the door slightly open for another conversation. If you want to slam it shut, try placing the blame on your schedule or current career situation.
Slaughter gives these two examples of how to be direct with your rejection:

• "I appreciate your offer to meet up for coffee. But I respect you and want to be honest: I already have a trusted partner who works in real estate to whom I send all of my referrals. I'm sure there's someone in your network who has total confidence in your professionalism and does the same for you."


• "I'd love to expand my network, but I am completely booked up right now with current projects and am not taking any new meetings for the next six months. If you'd like to reach out to me in six months, perhaps we can get a cup of coffee then."

The written rejection
Meghan Ely, networking event regular and owner of OFD Consulting, a niche marketing firm for the wedding industry, has had success with this trick: "If the person wants to continue the conversation at another time but I have no interest, I will still exchange cards if they insist but will ask them to contact me directly. If they do reach out, this gives me the opportunity to be a bit more eloquent when it comes to my approach. With these scenarios, I would simply be polite but firm and say something along the lines of how I appreciate them reaching out, but I don't think my skill set/area of expertise, etc. would be of benefit to them."

The phone call fake out
This is likely a last-resort tactic, but if you've tried everything else and you still can't escape, you can always pull the fake phone call from a friend. "You can always recruit a confederate who knows that you are trying to escape a situation," Slaughter says. "They can call you on the phone and pull you into an 'important conversation.' Your ally can also rescue you directly: 'Mind if I borrow Fred for a minute? He's needed on the other side of the room.'"




Source: careerbuilder

5 Ways to Get the Job You Want -- in Any Economy

With all the bleak economic news and reports of massive layoffs, it's easy to lose sight of an exciting fact of work:  There have never been more opportunities and possibilities for talented people than exist today.  The rate of new business formation in the United States has passed more than 1 million new companies per year.  Employers everywhere are looking for bright, resourceful and committed people to help their businesses grow.  The best way to help the best companies find you is to become a self-directed job searcher. 

Regardless of your employment experience, your target industry or the economic climate, you can get a job -- a great job -- if you are willing to work hard and know how to work smart.  Here are some of the very best ideas, strategies and methods for putting your career back on the fast track.

1. Take control of your career
The average person starting work today will have 11 full-time jobs and as many as five different careers over the course of his or her lifetime. To weather the storms of lifelong career change, you must be proactive, not reactive.

Begin by seeing yourself as self-employed. See yourself as the president of a company with one employee: you. See yourself as having one product to sell in a competitive marketplace: your personal services. You are completely responsible for research and development. No matter who signs your paycheck, you are always on your own payroll. This attitude is the starting point for getting the job you want for the rest of your career.

2. Take stock of yourself
Before you go out and look for a job, do some self-reflection. Make a list of all the things you can do for which someone would be willing to pay. What have you done especially well at your previous jobs? What sort of activities in your work and your personal life do you most enjoy? The good news is that you will always do the very best at something that makes you the happiest. To help yourself follow the right career track, describe your ideal job. The greater clarity you have about exactly what it is you want to do and how much you want to earn, the easier it is for someone to hire you.            

3. Understand the job market
All labor, including your own, is subject to the economic law of supply and demand. The only way to ensure you get a rewarding job is by doing something important for which there is a demand in the marketplace and in which you are difficult to replace. A change in technology, consumer preferences or the economy can make a particular talent or specialty obsolete almost overnight. You must continually upgrade your knowledge and skills and adjust your efforts so that they conform to the needs of the current job market. In a free society such as ours, everybody works on commission.                 

4. Don't mistake unemployment for a vacation Look at your job search as a full-time job, taking 40 to 50 hours a week. Get up and get dressed each weekday morning as if you were going to work, eat a light, high-energy breakfast and then get going. Looking good and staying productive not only improves your attitude, but also impresses other people, both those inside your own house and those on the outside. Remember, you should never see yourself as unemployed. You are a fully employed person in a temporary state of transition. 

5. Sow seeds everywhere Most of the jobs available are not advertised. They are hidden and waiting for you to discover them. Along with regularly surfing Internet job sites, be sure to list your qualifications and interests on every site that might attract employers seeking someone like you. Visit community job fairs and talk to exhibitors. Keep an eye out for news of new product releases and then seek out key people in the company. A business expansion represents job opportunities. Gather information about a prominent individual in an organization you would like to work for. Ask that person, by phone, by e-mail or in a letter, to grant you a 10-minute informational interview. Almost invariably, your interest, knowledge and gratitude will pay off in a job offer.  

Source: careerbuilder

Isn't that illegal? How to answer uncomfortable interview questions

Keeping one's cool when an interview chair turns into a hot seat can be difficult. Here are some examples of zingers thrown at candidates, and how some of them responded:

"My friends and I have been asked several times what we would do if we got pregnant. Our answer: 'I can't have children. I'm infertile.' It always sets the interviewer on his (never asked this by a woman) heels. We decided that in the event that we did get the job and did get pregnant, we would cast it as a 'miracle' -- and just be joyous with everyone about the heavenly news!" -- Rebecca Raibley, Massachusetts.

"I am a proud American but have a slight accent. When they ask me where I was born and I tell them, they say, 'Oops, we just remembered we have no openings currently.' So I've concluded that answering their illegal question will never get me a job, but if I refuse to answer it or tell them it's illegal, that will not get me the job either. Quite a conundrum." -- Mo Abraham, St. Louis

"I was asked, 'Isn't [my past boss] a jerk?' Obviously, I wanted to take the high road, and I wasn't sure why the interviewer asked that question. So I responded, 'He certainly makes an impression,' and changed the subject. Since no further questions were asked along those lines, I think it was a test -- maybe of quick thinking under pressure, maybe to see if I would dish dirt. Either way, never say anything negative about a past employer." -- Marilyn Santiesteban, Boston

"An interviewer once asked me to which charities I donated. I was uncomfortable with this question, as it seems quite personal. Donations are often based on personal criteria: health experience, politics, religion and other individual ideologies. I don't believe people should be 'qualified' by the groups of their choice." -- Lisa Hanock-Jasie, New York City.

"I was asked in an interview once, 'How do you get along with your mother?' I responded, 'If you're trying to find out whether I can work well for a female boss, you can just ask me that. If you were my friend, I wouldn't mind answering. But since this is an interview, I find that question inappropriate.'" -- Dez Stephens, Nashville, Tenn.

Reacting

Coming up with a response isn't always easy when the voice inside you is screaming, "Why the heck is he asking me that?" While panic, anger and confusion are typical responses to uncomfortable questions, checking emotions is crucial to getting the interview back on track. The interviewer may be trying to judge your confidence level and how you handle pressure.

Steven Roy Goodman, an educational consultant and career strategist in Washington, D.C., advises his clients to answer inappropriate interview questions by politely saying, "That question makes me feel a bit uncomfortable. Would you mind if we talked about how specifically I might be able to work with department X of company Y?"

Candidates who have experienced uncomfortable interview questions on a certain topic may wish to practice suitable responses ahead of time. For instance, if a gap in employment seems to be an issue, be ready to talk about the skills you acquired or the contributions you made as a volunteer during that time.

Unfortunately, some interviewers persist in areas they shouldn't.

"Obvious off-limit topics are family situation, age, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual preference, race or any questions that lead to more knowledge about the candidate through related questions – such as, 'Will you need to make any special arrangements for family members should you be hired?' or, 'Have you ever missed work for illness or injury?'" says Terry Henley, director of compensation services at Employers Resource Association, a nonprofit serving small and medium-sized businesses in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

In this situation, Henley recommends that candidates say that they aren't comfortable discussing the topic and then think about whether they wish to continue the interview. "If the applicant is certain that the question is illegal, he can tell the interviewer, understanding that it will probably mean that the interview will end soon and not end up in employment." Filing charges with a state or federal agency is an option if a well-qualified candidate feels certain that the only reason he was denied the position was because of being a member of a protected class, but Henley cautions that "the likelihood for success in filing such a claim in these circumstances is low."

While candidates have little to no control over what questions an interviewer chooses to ask, they do have power over something important: their own response. So set the tone that you've come to discuss why you're the best person for the job -- and nothing else. 

Source: careerbuilder

What does it take to be considered overqualified

As a job seeker, you may sometimes think you're a contortionist, trying to fit and shape yourself into the perfect candidate for the job. Oftentimes you need to tweak your experience and skills to match the job posting's phrasing. But what if you find yourself easily meeting or even surpassing the job requirements? While you may think you're a sure pick for the role, hiring managers may deem you overqualified.
Where's the line between being a perfect fit and being overqualified? Here's how to understand whether your qualifications will work for or against you and why hiring managers care.

The problem for both job seekers and employers
As time goes on, a person's career tends to ascend to higher titles and more responsibility. "An overqualified job seeker is someone who, because of salary, experience or education, is considering taking a step down in job or pay out of short-term convenience or personal necessity," says Jeff Zinser, principal of executive recruitment and search company Right Recruiting LLC.
Although this may sound like a plus for employers, who can benefit from the extra skills and experience, overqualified applicants may be viewed as a flight risk. "This situation is a problem for employers, because there is a high probability that the person will leave the job as soon as a position at their historical level appears," Zinser says. "In many situations, once the person becomes productive, they leave. Then the employer needs to refill the position. Job specifications and requirements are designed to fill professional positions with people who will be happy and challenged for the long term."

Send the right message
The hiring manager has valid reason to be concerned about overqualified applicants. But what if you truly want the lower-level job -- whether out of interest or necessity? How can you rephrase your experience so it's more hire-friendly without lying? "We never recommend editing or omitting vital information like experience or education from a résumé to prevent from being labeled overqualified," says Peter Zukow, general manager at Lock Search Group, a recruitment and staffing firm. "Instead, it is important to tailor a résumé to the specifications of the role. Highlight the qualifications and experiences that are most applicable to the role. If an individual misrepresents themselves on their résumé, it can be extremely embarrassing or even lead to immediate disqualification if uncovered during interview or background checks."

Address the issue
No matter how experienced a job seeker is, the key to convincing an employer that you're the right person for the job is making a clear business case for it. After you've tailored your résumé to fit the job description, address the issue of being overqualified in your cover letter and interview. Acknowledge your extensive credentials, but explain how this position fits into your career path, as well as how the business can benefit from your experience. Also come prepared with ideas for how you're a fit with the company culture and you align with its business values. An ideal job has responsibilities that play to your strengths and challenge you, so communicate that you're approaching this position as a learning opportunity.
Being an overqualified job seeker doesn't have to result in instant rejection. Research the roles you're applying to and how your experience can benefit the team as well as yourself. Employers look for workers who are a good company fit and will be around for a while. By making it clear you're interested in the job and have room to grow in the role, you'll prove that you're the best person for the job.






Source: careerbuilder

The pros of part-time jobs

For many recent graduates, life may not be going exactly as planned. The rocky job market has many wondering when they'll put their education to use at a real, full-time job. But rather than accept unemployment until things turn around, they should consider taking a part-time position.

There are a number of reasons recent grads should look more seriously at part-time jobs. Chief among them is money. It never hurts to have a little income, and it'll get your parents off your back. Student loan debts may be due soon, plus the sooner you're able to start saving money, the sooner you'll be able to move out of your parents' house. Not to mention that having an active social life requires cash.

Filling a résumé gap
But the benefits go much deeper than funding weekend partying and staving off financial problems. A part-time job shows prospective employers that you can take life seriously and be proactive. Employers may question gaps in a candidate's résumé, especially ones that stretch over a long period of time. Show employers that you're responsible by taking a part-time job to help pay off your student loans while looking for more permanent employment.

Gaining experience in your field of interest
When researching part-time positions, look for ones that would give you experience in your desired field and possibly introduce you to professional contacts that may be useful down the road. For many employers, a candidate's prior experience is an important factor, and professional referrals remain one of the most trusted and widely used methods among hiring managers for filling vacancies. A part-time job in a related field is often more beneficial than a full-time position in an unrelated one.

Even if your part-time job isn't in your desired field, it is still a good way to round out a résumé, as well as prove you're a driven self-starter. It may also lead to letters of recommendation, which will be invaluable in your job search.

Improving time-management and organization skills
Taking a part-time job will also help in your quest to find sustainable employment in less-direct ways, such as improving your time management. With nothing to do each day but fill out the odd job application and make a phone call or two, it's easy for an unemployed job seeker to get distracted and disorganized. A part-time job can help create structure that is likely to spill over into the rest of your life and prepare you for a full-time schedule.

A part-time job makes a great transition into the hustle and bustle of the daily work force. So, while it may not be what you originally wanted, any chance to put yourself to work, fill résumé gaps and build worthwhile experience should be looked at as an opportunity.

Source: careerbuilder

Unhappy at Work? Ask Yourself These 7 Questions

You're sitting in another agonizing meeting and glancing at your watch. "I can't believe what a waste of time this is," you say to yourself. "I've got five phone calls to return and probably 25 new e-mails in my inbox. Guess I'm staying late again. I just wish I cared more about what I'm doing here anyway."

If you notice that your complaints about work are becoming frequent and serious enough that you're questioning your willingness to stay, here are seven essential questions to ask before deciding whether to leave your position. Answering these questions is the first step in taking charge of your own career.

1. What do you enjoy and what don't you enjoy about your job?

This is a basic yet essential exercise. On a sheet of paper create two columns. In the first list all of the aspects about your job that you enjoy. In the second, detail your complaints. Be honest and specific. Now compare the two lists and notice any patterns. How meaningful are your likes and what are the impacts of your dislikes?

2. How long have you felt the way you do?

Every organization experiences good times and rough times. Are you hating your job because it's budget time or review time? Are you in a good phase only because sales are up in the summer? Have you been complaining for two solid years? Get some perspective about your overall satisfaction level.

3. How does your job align with your strengths and your values?

People are usually happiest when they are encouraged to play to their strengths and values. Make a list of your strengths and values and consider them in light of your current job and organization. How well does your job fit you? Are you an extroverted leader in a job involving a lot of data analysis? Are you committed to a particular cause and work for an organization whose mission runs counter to your ideals?

4. What is your job costing you?

Even those of us in lucrative positions face some degree of "opportunity cost" in their lives. Others face real emotional suffering. How mild or severe is the cost of remaining in your current position? Be honest about the impact your job has on your health and sense of well-being.

5. Will this job get you where you want to go?

You need to have a clear vision before making a dramatic decision about your current position. What would you love to be doing one, five and 10 years from now? How will this job get you there? Is this job a natural stepping stone or a dead end?

6. How is your boss supporting you?

Your boss's skill as a manager is a critical factor to your job satisfaction and success. She can give you challenging assignments and assist your career progression. Or she can ignore you, dump unappealing projects on you or undermine you. If your boss is intolerable, it may be time to move on. Fighting to have your boss removed or waiting for your boss to change or get fired are rarely successful tactics.

7. What's keeping you where you are?

Now it's time to be brutally honest. What are your primary motivating factors for working in this position? Perhaps you've made lifestyle choices that depend on your salary level. Maybe you spent many years and thousands of dollars obtaining an advanced degree to get where you are. Maybe you have convinced yourself that there is no better job out there. What are you committed to in your life? How does your job support those commitments?

Take some time to analyze your work experience in light of your answers to these seven questions. By noticing your desires and honoring your aspirations, you can achieve more clarity about what you want and what is in your way. With clarity, you can transform your vision into a plan for action.

If you still feel stuck, consider hiring a professional coach. A coach can help you clarify your vision, remove obstacles, create an action plan and follow it. With coaching, you can more readily take charge of your career and move closer to achieving your dreams.






Source: careerbuilder

12 Tips for Making Small Talk

A study at the Stanford University School of Business tracked a group of MBAs 10 years after they graduated. The result? Grade point averages had no bearing on their success -- but their ability to converse with others did.

Being able to connect with others through small talk can lead to big things, according to Debra Fine, author of 'The Fine Art of Small Talk.' A former engineer, Fine recalls being so uncomfortable at networking events that she would hide in the restroom. Now a professional speaker, Fine says the ability to connect with people through small talk is an acquired skill.

Fine and her fellow authorities on schmoozing offer the following tips for starting -- and ending -- conversations:

1. As you prepare for a function, come up with three things to talk about as well as four generic questions that will get others talking. If you've met the host before, try to remember things about her, such as her passion for a sport or a charity you're both involved in.

2. Be the first to say "hello." If you're not sure the other person will remember you, offer your name to ease the pressure. For example, "Charles Bartlett? Lynn Schmidt... good to see you again." Smile first and always shake hands when you meet someone.

3. Take your time during introductions. Make an extra effort to remember names and use them frequently.

4. Get the other person talking by leading with a common ground statement regarding the event or location and then asking a related open-ended question. For example, "Attendance looks higher than last year, how long have you been coming to these conventions?" You can also ask them about their trip in or how they know the host.

5. Stay focused on your conversational partner by actively listening and giving feedback. Maintain eye contact. Never glance around the room while they are talking to you.

6. Listen more than you talk.

7. Have something interesting to contribute. Keeping abreast of current events and culture will provide you with great conversation builders, leading with "What do you think of...?" Have you heard...?" What is your take on...?" Stay away from negative or controversial topics, and refrain from long-winded stories or giving a lot of detail in casual conversation.

8. If there are people you especially want to meet, one of the best ways to approach them is to be introduced by someone they respect. Ask a mutual friend to do the honors.

9. If someone hands you a business card, accept it as a gift. Hold it in both hands and take a moment to read what is written on it. When you're done, put it away in a shirt pocket, purse or wallet to show it is valued.

10. Watch your body language. People who look ill at ease make others uncomfortable. Act confident and comfortable, even when you're not.

11. Before entering into a conversation that's already in progress, observe and listen. You don't want to squash the dynamics with an unsuited or ill-timed remark.

12. Have a few exit lines ready, so that you can both gracefully move on. For example, "I need to check in with a client over there," "I skipped lunch today, so I need to visit the buffet," or you can offer to refresh their drink.

When should you exit a conversation? According to Susan RoAne, author and speaker known as the "Mingling Maven," your objective in all encounters should be to make a good impression and leave people wanting more. To do that, she advises: "Be bright. Be brief. Be gone."





Source: Careerbuilder

Get-ahead strategy: Build your listening skills

While you'll need to learn plenty of skills throughout your career, none is as important as one: listening. Listening is beneficial no matter what you're doing. Whether it's talking with your boss, going on an interview or networking with former colleagues, knowing how to comprehend what others are telling you without interrupting is always valuable.
"Listening is a greatly undervalued skill," says Adria Firestone, a career coach. "Everybody talks about being a great speaker, but even more than being an excellent presenter, you need to be an excellent listener."
Here's how your listening skills can help you advance your career:
Notice subtleties
While words are important, understanding nonverbal cues in the workplace is just as essential and comes from top-notch listening skills. "A good listener even notices what another person may not be saying," Firestone says. Reading the physical cues of your co-workers can help you gauge a reaction to a project or find clues about what your boss really thinks about your latest work. Listening carefully and paying close attention can be a huge benefit when figuring out workplace dilemmas.
Give more thoughtful responses
Have you ever known people who give quick, snappy responses that don't necessarily address the point? Really taking time to understanding a co-worker can help you craft a more intelligent answer to a tough question or put together a thoughtful plan for tackling a work problem. "We spent a great deal of our time preparing what we are going to answer next so that we look good," Firestone says. "The sad thing is, listening skills have really gone out of the window."
Build a dialogue with your boss
There's probably no one worth listening to more than your boss. Being engaged in what she has to say can help you build a positive working relationship. One trick Firestone suggests is squeezing your toes two times in your shoes before answering any question. Having those extra few moments of thought can help you craft a response. "Well-thought-out answers are so much more impressive than careless ones," she says.
Prevent misunderstandings during a meeting
Even though you may not get the chance to say everything you'd like, listening during a meeting saves time in the long run, experts say. Hearing what others at the meeting are saying, instead of thinking about your own words, can help you analyze the real problems that need to be addressed. "You will impress [your co-workers] because you have really listened to the questions being asked, the problems brought to the table and you will have legitimate solutions," Firestone says.
Help in the job search
When it comes to networking, listening to the subtle hints of those in your network can be a game changer in terms of finding work. "If someone senses you are truly interested in them, they will be far more likely to remember you," Firestone says, adding that listening is a critical skill to aid your job search.
Paying attention to the people others recommend to you or the opportunities that don't seem applicable at the time can also pay off in your job search. For example, if you listened to someone talk about a position that seemed out of your league a year ago but you now want to work at the company, recalling that conversation can be simpler after having a meaningful discussion.
It can be easy to forget to listen to others when trying to get your point across, but this skill is especially helpful in your career. Next time you're in a career-related conversation, Firestone suggests, "Don't forget to breathe, to think, listen, listen and listen some more, and then speak."






Source: careerbuilder

How to get your creative career started

Creative positions such as graphic designer, writer and Web designer may seem like unattainable dream jobs, and jumping into the creative professional world can seem intimidating. However, these jobs are attainable. If you're interested in pursuing a creative job but aren't sure where to start, here are some tips to help you get organized and begin your search:
Create a portfolio
Having a digital portfolio is essential for creative individuals. Not only is it a great tool to keep your work organized and easily accessible, but it makes it easier to show your work to potential employers. Including a link to your portfolio in your cover letter and résumé is more secure and professional than including attachments for the hiring manager to download. Check out free websites such as Coroflot or Behance to start organizing your work.
Know and use industry terms
Whether you're formally trained or self-taught, it's important to be comfortable using industry terms for your work. If you're a designer, you should be familiar with popular software programs, in case the company you're interested in uses a different one than you. If you want to write for a living, learn about the different writing positions for which companies hire. Most creative jobs also require working knowledge of Internet publishing, an important subject area to research.
Develop a personal brand
Just as creative individuals help a business develop a company identity and share it with the public, creative professionals can also establish their own personal brand. Decide what professional identity you want, what direction you want your career to go in and any special focus or concentration you want to pursue. This step may be a lot of work, but it can also be fun, especially when customizing your résumé, business cards, social media profiles and portfolio to match your brand.
Use social media as a career tool
Social media are a great resource for networking and staying involved with your industry. You can share your creative work with your social-media community and participate in industry conversations. Take advantage of the resources available to creative workers and use the tools to their full potential.
Treat volunteer opportunities like entry-level gigs
If you're new to your field and don't have much experience, you can expand your portfolio and add to your résumé by doing free creative work for local nonprofits. Reach out to local businesses, and include your portfolio and a project pitch. Offer to create or redesign their website, write and publish a newsletter, photograph and create videos of an event or help with publicity. These businesses will appreciate the complimentary services, and your portfolio will continue to grow.







Source: careerbuilder