How to Get Ready for a Job Interview

The old saying that “practice makes perfect” is appropriate when it comes to interviewing. If it doesn’t make you perfect, it will, at least, help you interview effectively. Don’t start getting ready late the night before the interview. Take time in advance to prepare for your interview. 

If you have a family member or friend who will spend some time helping you, ask them to ask you some typical interview questions. The more you practice answering, the more comfortable you will be with your responses. 

Tip: Need more help? There are free online interview practice tools you can use to get ready to ace a job interview.

If you can, record your practice interview so you can watch what you look and sound like. You’ll be able to see what you need to improve. Then do it again. Keep practicing until you’re comfortable with your responses and comfortable watching yourself interview. 

Check your nonverbal communications as well as your verbal responses. Be sure you’re not fidgeting or twitching or disconnected—pay attention. Employers notice these nonverbal responses, so be aware of the demeanor you portray and try to stay calm and quiet while waiting for the interview and during it. Your goal is for your entire package, your image, to be perfect.

When Your Interview is Remote

Virtual interviews can be easier than in-person meetings. You don’t have to worry about getting there on time or stress over the details of interviewing in person. However, it’s still important to prepare in advance and pay attention to all the details of a remote interview so you can make the best impression. 

Tip: Here’s how to look stylish and maximize your Zoom presence during a job interview. 

When You’re Interviewing In-Person

There are some things you shouldn’t plan on bringing with you to the interview. If you’re a smoker, leave the cigarettes at home or in your car. Make sure you use a breath mint before you enter the building. 

Don’t chew gum or munch on candy either. Silence your phone. The same goes for coffee and soda. Don’t walk into the interview carrying a cup of coffee, however much you might think you need it. Interviewees who have done some or all of the above have jeopardized their chance of getting the job.

Tip: Here’s the best interview attire for every type of job interview. 

Interview Preparation Checklist

Here’s an interview checklist to use to get ready for your interview.

[  ] Review the job posting. 

[  ] Research the company. 

[  ] Review interview questions

[  ] Generate a list of questions to ask

[  ] Review your resume

[  ] Itemize the qualifications you have for the job

[  ] Get irections to the interview location

[  ] Get your interview clothes ready (the evening before) 

[  ] Pack your portfolio with your resume, a notepad, and a pen

[  ] Double-check the name of your interviewer, so you know with whom you are meeting 

Review Your Resume

Reviewing your resume sounds a little odd, doesn’t it? Believe it or not, I’ve interviewed job applicants whose answers didn’t match what was on their resume. They either didn’t remember what years they had worked at which job, or they were fuzzy on the details of what they had done at their previous jobs.

Tip: Make sure you know what you put on your resume and make sure your answers match what you tell the interviewer. 

Research the Company

Researching the company is important, too, for a couple of reasons. First of all, one of the questions you may be asked is “What do you know about this company?” and you need to be able to provide an informative answer. Secondly, you want to know as much about the company because you need to decide if you want to work there. 

Visit the company’s website (the easiest way to find it is to search for the company name on Google), and look at every section. Read the company mission statement and goals for the future. Learn what the company does and how they do it. Understand the products or services the company sells and how they market them. Review senior management bios as well as the information about the company and benefits available in the Careers or About Us section of the company website. The more you know, the more effectively you will be able to interview.

Check out the company’s LinkedIn profile, Twitter feed, Instagram, and Facebook page, if they have them. You’ll find a wealth of information about the company, its management, and its employees. Use LinkedIn to see who you know at the company. Those connections may be able to give you insider advice and tips on interviewing strategies. 

How to Handle the Interview

Keep it Professional

Professional communications are as important during the interview as they are when you submit your resume and cover letter. That means all communications from the time you arrive at the interview until it’s over.

Arrive on time for the interview. On time means a few minutes early. You may need to complete an application, and you don’t want to be rushing into the lobby of the building at the last minute. If you aren’t sure where the office is located, do a trial run the day before so you know exactly where you are going, where you can park, and how long it is going to take you to get there. Give yourself a little extra time, so you have a cushion just in case you’re delayed. 

If you’re nervous (and that can happen to anyone, even those who interview a lot!), visit the restroom, wash and dry your hands so your palms aren’t sweaty, and get a drink of water. If sweating is an issue, keep a tissue in your pocket so you can dry your hands discreetly before you shake hands with anyone. 

Manners Matter

Next, consider manners, because they do matter. Remember that teacher who used to tell you to sit up straight and pay attention? Well, that’s exactly what you need to do during the interview. Don’t slouch or recline in your chair, even when you’re interviewing from home. Listen attentively to the interviewer and don’t interrupt.

Pause Before You Respond

Do take time, if you need to, to consider your response, so your answer is complete. Don’t talk too much. I have interviewed some candidates who talked way too much. They were trying so hard to sell me on hiring them that they didn’t listen to a word I said. Rambling on and on didn’t make a good impression on me and isn’t going to make a good impression on any interviewer.

Send a Thank-You Note

Sending a thank-you note or email is the best way to cement the good impression you just left the interviewer with. Reiterate your interest and excitement about the opportunity, and use your message as a chance to mention anything you neglected to say during the interview.

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The Pros and Cons of Becoming a Landlord

While being a landlord may seem like your ticket to being self-employed, there are some pros and cons you should be aware of before committing.

 Becoming a landlord tends to cross the mind of many people looking to change career paths. But like any job, there are upsides and downsides. Transitioning from a past career to becoming a full-time landlord is no simple task either. If you’re considering stepping into this field, here are the pros and cons of becoming a landlord to help you get started.

The Pros of Becoming a Landlord

You Become Your Own Boss

One of the main draws that pull people into becoming a landlord is the ability to be your own boss. If you make enough from rent, you can become completely independent and essentially run your own business. For people who crave flexibility in their careers, this is a major advantage.

You Make Nearly Passive Income

Some properties, like single-family units, are relatively easy to manage, and if you plan correctly, you can budget and manage from a distance. Additionally, if you hire a property manager to take care of your property, it makes everything even easier, and you can essentially collect rent as it comes in.

You Qualify for Tax Deductions

Within reason, almost every expense you spend on your property is a business expense and can be tax-deductible. This means that you can update and repair your property at little to no cost to you, which is a great way to keep tenants coming back.

It’s a Job for Extroverts

If you thrive off of working with people, being a landlord can be a great career move, as you’re dealing with people all the time. In general, you can use your talents when you’re a landlord. Whether you’re a people person, plumber, painter, or more, you can use these abilities to cut costs.

The Cons of Becoming a Landlord

It Takes a Lot of Time

Owning and managing property is a commitment, and it takes a lot of attention and planning, especially because you will be your own boss. Additionally, learning all the necessary laws, keeping up with responsibilities, and marketing your property are all time-consuming tasks.

There Will Be Unexpected Costs

No matter how much you plan, unexpected costs will come your way, such as maintenance and legal fees. While you can budget in a way that gives you emergency money, there will undoubtedly come a time when you’ll have to deal with an emergency.

You’ll Have To Deal With People You May Not Like

While it’s critical for landlords to learn how to select the right tenant, eventually, you’ll run into someone you don’t get along with, no matter how much tenant screening you do. Because of this, you’ll have to practice setting your emotions aside and dealing with conflict in a professional manner.

Is Being a Landlord Right for You?

If you have the time and resources available for you to become a landlord, you should go for it. The good news is that once a lease is up, you don’t have to rent the property out again if you don’t want to, and you can decide the job isn’t for you.

But knowing the pros and cons of becoming a landlord is critical because if you’re not a people person, this job may not be for you. This is especially true if you don’t have the energy or time to commit to learning what it takes and sticking to it.

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Calling Fashion Lovers: 5 Tips for Expanding Your Boutique

Owning a small clothing store is a dream that many fashion lovers share. Let us congratulate you on accomplishing that goal!

However, with any business, it’s important to keep things fresh. Whether you’re in a rut or like to dream big, these tips for expanding your boutique will help you get more visibility and acquire more great items for your store.

Be Social

In today’s modern world, having an online presence is everything. Most folks often have some form of social media, so your business needs to be visible on relevant platforms. We recommend getting savvy on Facebook and Instagram, as both offer great tools to showcase your merchandise to customers. Also, make a point to connect with other fashion lovers and boutiques.

Businesses that use social media to create customer contests and giveaways are also often successful. Get your loyal customers involved with your boutique’s social presence by offering discounts or other incentives for following your brand.

Build Your Digital Brand Further

While social media makes a big impact, your boutique should also have a professional website. Many builders, like Squarespace or Wix, streamline the process with templates, so being able to code in computer languages like HTML is no longer required.

Of course, you can explore digital marketing tactics to make the most of your website. Try researching ways of making it SEO-friendly to improve your reach on Google. Adding a blog following these practices increases your boutique’s traffic.

Consider putting your merchandise online, especially if you have only been selling locally. This gives you the chance to reach out to more folks. You can even consider going the extra mile by offering international shipping.

Broaden Your Inventory

Growing boutiques should carry handbags and other merchandise to maintain customers’ interest. This fashion-forward accessory helps complete different looks, from a night out on the town to a coffee date at a cozy café. Additionally, brand names or vintage bags often sell well.

Other great items to include besides clothing are:

• Shoes
• Jewelry
• Hats
• Scarves
• Sunglasses

Find Partners

One great tip to expand your boutique is finding business partners that complement what you sell. Perhaps you like to focus on selling clothes. You can always enlist the help of another person when it comes to acquiring other goods.

For example, you may have a friend who loves thrifting. You could always ask them for help with acquiring vintage handbags to sell in your store. Alternatively, you can explore more formal routes by touching base with other businesses in the area or ones you’ve connected with on social media.

Offer Customers Rewards

People love getting deals. While boutique prices are often higher than department stores, you can always build a loyalty program instead of periodically offering traditional coupons. You can look into different apps like FiveStar to make the process easier for you. By having these incentives, you will draw new customers while maintaining the loyalty of long-standing ones.

Taking your boutique to the next level requires a little online ingenuity. Try to make the most of social media platforms and a professional website. New merchandise will keep a steady stream of customers, and reward programs can build loyalty. With these tips in mind, nothing will stop your boutique from being a success.

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5 Free and Easy Ways to Improve Your Computer Skills

Do you have the computer skills you need to succeed at work? If not, there are free resources you can use to upgrade your skills and boost your career. With technology becoming more and more prevalent in the workplace, it’s more important than ever to have basic computer hardware and software skills. There are some basic computer skills every worker needs to have.

An employer will be looking for computer skills on your resume, and that means you need to be able to know how to use a computer when you’re on the job.

How To Improve Your Computer Skills

Here are 5 free and easy way to improve your computer skills.

1. Identify what you need to learn.

Most likely, you only have so much free time that you can dedicate to learning a new skill. Accordingly, it’s important to use that time wisely. Whether you’re looking to pivot your career or level up within your current field, analyzing the job description of your ideal position is a great way to identify what skills employers are looking for, as well as the tools you should know how to use.

Tip: The “Requirements” section of a job description is generally a good place to find this information.

Networking is another great way to discover what technical skills other people in your field have, or what software and apps they use on a day-to-day basis. This can be accomplished with a simple question, such as “Have you learned any new skills lately that have helped you in your job?,” or “What’s your favorite software or app that use regularly for work?”

In addition, you can also find much of this information online. If you are a customer service representative, for example, you might search for “customer service software.” Keep an eye out for the specific products that appear in your results. Capterra, a software review company, is another helpful resource for identifying common tools in your trade.

Not sure where to start? The specific skills you need are highly dependent on your position and your field, but you can familiarize yourself with this list of top computer skills to start out. Also review some of the best skills to include on your resume.

2. Start with the basics—and ensure you know how to use a computer.

While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of how to use a computer—ideally, both a Windows or Mac. There are many free resources online. Sites like Lifewire, for example, are very helpful in providing comprehensive tutorials.

These days, it’s pretty common to find free (or affordable) computer training events. Check with your local library, community center or community college to see what they have to offer. In addition, you can take free Mac courses at an Apple store near you.

If you’re working in an office role, consider getting certified in Microsoft Office to improve your skills and add value to your resume.

3. Familiarize yourself with an understanding of how computers (and the Internet) work.

While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of what a computer it is and how it works. In some cases, it can be helpful to learn how the Internet works, too.

Now, do you need master computer science? Absolutely not. But, having an elementary understanding of how the technology that you use functions provides a strong foundation for future learning. Here is a list of some free online computer skills lessons that you can start with:

• Computer Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
• Internet Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
• Computer Science 101 – from Stanford University  (Free)
• How the Internet Works – from Khan Academy (Free)
• G Suite Training Center (for Google Apps) – from Google (Free)

4. Take a free online or-in person computer course.

There are many free resources available, both offline and online. Be sure to check out offerings in your community, such as at your local library, community center, community college or YMCA. You can also search on sites like Meetup or Eventbrite for educational events or groups. If you live in Los Angeles, New York City or Chicago, CourseHorse is another excellent resource.

If you’d rather learn tech skills for free online, there are plenty of ways to do so! You should be able to search on YouTube for pretty much anything you want to know. If you’re looking for a more formal learning experience, you can find tons of free college-level courses online on sites like Coursera, EdX and Class-Central. You can also find free, introductory courses on sites like Khan Academy, Codecademy, and Free Code Camp.

Tip: Here’s an extensive list of free and low-cost online computer classes you can take to get started.

5. Apply the knowledge and get hands-on practice.

If a job description requests familiarity with a specific tool, try to see if there’s way to get hands-on experience. For example, say a position requires that you know how to use Trello, a project management tool. You could consider ways you might be able to integrate Trello in your current position. If this is not possible, perhaps there’s a case where you could use it in your personal life—like for planning a trip.

Get as creative as possible. Need to learn how to use Google Calendar? Start using it to plan and schedule your families’ appointments and activities. Need to know how to use Skype? Create an account and use it to make a video call with someone you haven’t talked to in awhile.

Alternately, if you are learning a skill like graphic design, web design or development, there are many ways to practice: you can enter contests on 99Designs, or solicit gigs on Fiverr, for example.

If you need to be familiar with a paid tool or software then you cannot gain access to, look to see if that app offers a demo or has any training videos on its website. At the very least, you’ll have a chance to garner a basic familiarity with the structure and functionality of the software

Remember, you should always be honest with an employer about your skills and abilities. Don’t oversell your skills. If you’re lacking a skill that is listed in the job description, you can always mention that it is something you are currently learning (or intend to learn), and emphasize your ability to pick up new skills quickly.

Bonus tip: Does your company offer an education stipend?

Be sure to check if your company offers any stipends for their employees’ professional development. There are a lot of high-quality online learning programs available for relatively low costs – LinkedIn Learning, for example, is a great option.

Suggested Articles:

• Computer Skills That Will Get You Hired
• Free Career and Job Search Tools

 

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Top 12 Do’s and Don’ts for Starting a New Job

Are you about to start a new job? Are you getting the new job jitters? Even though it’s really exciting to be beginning a new phase of your career, it can also be stressful and a little scary to start a new job.

Review these tips for starting a new job, and you’ll be ready for a smooth transition to your new employer.

Plan Your Departure

One way to alleviate some of the stress is to take some time to plan and get organized. If you’re currently employed, give notice to your employer (two weeks is typical), and let your co-workers know that you’re moving on.

Here are tips for resigning gracefully while maintaining a good relationship with your boss and colleagues.

Plan Your Arrival

Plan your arrival at your new workplace as carefully as you did leaving your old job. If you can, schedule a break between jobs. Taking a few days off, or a vacation if you can swing it, is a good way to decompress, relax, and start anew with a refreshed and engaged brain. 

Make a List

Start your planning by making a “to do” list. What do you need to get done before you start work? Take care of any appointments you need to schedule ahead of time. That way, you won’t need to be asking for time off right away.

If you need to figure out transportation, child care, elder care, or anything else you need in place prior to starting work, don’t wait to get it lined up. The more organized you are, the smoother the transition will be.

Also, make a “to do” list for starting your new job—you can use this check list to help you get started. Not doing much other than listening and learning, even though it sounds odd, can be on that list. Taking the time to prepare, will help your first day on the job a successful one.

Listen and Learn

One of the best bosses I ever had told me that whenever he started a new job, he spent the first couple of weeks immersing himself into the organization. He wanted a thorough understanding of how the company, his job, and his team worked before he made any suggestions or shared his input.

Of course, everyone’s job is different, but taking the time to learn as much as you can from everyone you meet at work is excellent advice.

There are other things you can do, as well, to make your first days and weeks on the job a positive, exciting, and fun experience.

12 Do’s and Don’ts for Starting a New Job

Here are 12 suggestions for what you can do, and what you shouldn’t do, that will help you ensure a smooth transition to your new position.

1. Get the facts.

It’s absolutely fine to ask questions ahead of time. Depending on your organization, you can ask the Human Resources representative or your supervisor any questions. If you’re not sure who to ask, check with the person who offered you the job. Find out about your work schedule, the hours per week you are expected to work, salary, benefits, and any information you need to successfully come on board.

2. Figure out what to wear.

What you wore to the job interview may not be what you will wear on the job. If you haven’t been given a dress code, ask what the appropriate attire is for your workplace. Have a few work outfits ready, so you don’t have to scramble finding clothes to wear.

3. Check on the company’s BYOD or BYOC policy.

Some employers have Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) or BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer) policies that include tablets and smartphones, as well as computers. You may be expected to use your own laptop, or you may have the option to use it. Here’s information on when a company can require you to use your own technology equipment.

4. Check on the company’s social media policy.

Check out your new employer’s social media policy. Some companies don’t care about employee’s posting on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or other social media sites during working hours. Others have policies that prohibit it. Find out what is acceptable before you start posting.

Take the time to vet your social pages. Some of your new co-workers or even your new boss might want to be your Facebook friend. Make sure what they can view is fit for public consumption. Check your privacy settings and be careful about who gets to see what.

5. Don’t presume you know anything. 

Being humble is worth a lot when you’re starting a new job. Nobody likes a know it all, especially someone who doesn’t really know anything about the job or the organization. As I mentioned, take the time to listen and learn before you start giving advice.

6. Be nice.

Being nice goes a long way, too. People like nice people, and if you’re nice to everyone you’re going to get ahead. Remember that some of the people at the bottom of the pay scale know more about the inner workings of the company than those at the top. That’s why being nice to everyone you meet is important. Here’s how to introduce yourself to your new co-workers.

7. Do arrive a little early.

One easy way to help minimize the stress of starting a new position is to do a trial run before you start the job. Figure out your transportation and where you’re going.  Make the trip a few days ahead of time to see how long it takes, giving yourself a cushion for traffic or other delays. Then give yourself a little extra time so you can arrive at work a few minutes early on your first day.

8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice.

There is no such thing as a stupid question when you’re starting a job. Your employer would prefer that you ask. That’s easier than having to fix a mistake. You won’t be expected to know everything, and it’s better to ask for help than to guess.

9. Ask for feedback.

Feedback is especially useful when you’re starting a job. Ask your supervisor how you’re doing, ask if he or she can give you any advice, and ask for suggestions on what you can improve upon.

10. Build relationships.

Relationship building can be hard, especially if you’re the new kid on the block. It can be harder when you don’t have an outgoing personality, and meeting new people is a challenge. Do your best to be friendly and warm, and again, asking for advice is always a good way to break the ice.

11. Be flexible.

Give yourself some extra time to work at the job when you’re first starting it. Leave room in your schedule to come in early or stay late, if necessary. Spending extra time up front can help your learning curve, and increase your comfort level with your new responsibilities.

12. Try not to stress too much. 

Think of your new job as the next exciting step in your career path. Don’t expect to learn everything at once. It’s all new to you, and it will take time. If you feel yourself getting stressed, take a deep breath, collect yourself, and remember that you aren’t expected to get it all at once.

Even though you’re bringing a wealth of skills and experience to the organization, it will still take a little time for it to all fall into place.

More Tips for Starting a New Job

• How to Handle the New Job Jitters
• How to Have a Successful First Day at Work

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How to Get Hired After a Career Break for Caregiving

Almost half of moms of school-aged children weren’t working during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, according to Census data. A year later, 1.4 million moms who were previously employed were still out of work. 

If you’re one of them–or if you’ve taken time off for caregiving unrelated to COVID-19–you might be wondering how to frame your career pause in job interviews. Maybe you’ve struggled with explaining resume gaps to employers before, or you’ve heard that hiring managers are reluctant to give a chance to candidates with breaks in their employment. 

But the challenges of the past few years have helped many to evolve their thinking. Getting hired after time away from work may be easier than you think. It’s just a matter of showing that you have what it takes to do the job. 

Frame Your Career Break

LinkedIn recently introduced a new feature called Career Breaks. It allows users to account for resume gaps and highlight the skills they learned during, say, maternity leave or time out for caregiving. 

Apart from updating your LinkedIn profile and resume, you’ll want to figure out how to talk about your break during job interviews. Consider how your skills have grown during your time away. Did you become a better multitasker, more empathetic, more adept at time management? Maybe you volunteered at your child’s school, edited the HOA newsletter, or helped neighbors organize a meal train. Don’t sell those experiences short. 

Most of all, remember to keep your explanations brief and confident. Explain your break…then move on. 

Brush Up on Your Skills

Many offices use Excel, Powerpoint, etc. in their everyday operations, and the programs are updated often. If you want to brush up on your office skills before heading back into the workforce, there are plenty of online classes and tutorials to get you up to speed on the newest versions of Office. You can find free training at the Microsoft 365 Training Center and on YouTube. Paid courses through Udemy and GoSkills issue a certificate of completion, which, although not accredited, could look snazzy on your resume.

Get Recertified

The best thing you can do is to find out the steps you need to take to set yourself up for easier re-entry into the workforce before you leave it. That could mean keeping your license, certification, or skills current, even if you’re not planning to use them in the near future. But let’s face it, sometimes that isn’t possible. Becoming a parent is a huge life change, and you have to let some things slide in order to give your attention to this monumental task. Here are three examples of certifications you can get back when you’re ready. 

Teacher

If your certification has expired, go to your state’s education department for specific requirements and to complete a reinstatement application. You may also have to complete a reinstatement form and the necessary continuing education credits. For example, in Maryland, a teacher wanting to reinstate an expired certificate must complete six hours of credit or have a valid professional certificate issued by a member state, as well as verification of three years of experience within the last seven years. Several community colleges, such as Community College of Baltimore County, have online options for recertification. Look into the community colleges in your state, as they will have state-specific classes.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

LCSWs are required to renew their licenses every two years after obtaining 40 hours of continuing education credits. My friend Jill stayed home with her son for the first few years of his life. In Maryland, where she holds her license, she could apply to place her license on inactive status for up to five years. Once back at work, she had to complete the 40 hours of continuing education requirements within two years of reinstating, plus pay the fee.

Kristina is licensed in three states. She moved around quite a bit due to her husband’s job, and she let a couple of her licenses lapse while she wasn’t practicing, due to the fees associated with keeping current on all of them. Once she decided to get reinstated, it took five to six months of calling to finally get through to someone. Kristina was persistent and gave herself time to get in touch with the right people to help her get reinstated.

Registered Nurse 

Suppose your certification has lapsed and you’re within two years from the date it expired. In that case, you can reactivate your certification by completing an application for reactivation, doing the certification renewal requirements, and paying all required fees. If it’s been more than two years since your certification expired and the same test is available, you must do all of the above and retest and pass the certification examination in the same specialty of your lapsed certification. 

Parenting is a full-time job in itself. This period away from your career has likely been one of the most challenging times in your life. Make sure your prospective employers know how you’ve risen to the task, and play up the skills you’ve honed during your work hiatus. Once you get those certifications in line, you’ll be an even more valuable worker than you were before you had children.  

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What is a Personal Brand Statement?

A personal brand statement is a one to two sentence description that gives a brief overview of your unique skills, experience, and passions and why you’re unique in your field of work. Personal brand statements can quickly set you apart from others and can help your audience or hiring managers get a better understanding of who you are and what you can offer. 

Benefits of a Personal Brand Statement 

A personal brand statement doesn’t just help you discover new opportunities, it can also be a way for you to hone in on your unique skills to better understand where you are in your professional career. 

Some other benefits of a personal brand statement include: 

Attracting more opportunities

Having a personal brand statement can help attract other like-minded individuals and broaden your network, thus increasing the potential for additional opportunities in your career.  It’s great to leverage social media like LinkedIn where you can share advice and insights and establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. 

Differentiating yourself from others

A personal brand statement also helps set you apart from others in your field. Doing so can give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs or seeking additional opportunities. 

Higher perceived value

Connecting with others on a personal level is important, and a personal brand statement can help you do just that. When you’re confident in your personal brand statement, you can use it to your advantage and become a leader in your industry. 

Control over your professional image

A personal brand statement can also help you have control over the way others perceive you. Be honest when crafting your statement so as to not mislead others. A personal brand statement should show others the value you can bring to any opportunity. 

How to Create a Personal Brand Statement in 6 Steps

Now that we know what a personal brand statement is, let’s go over the steps you should take to create yours. 

1. Make a list of your skills 

The first step in building your personal brand statement is to identify your unique skills. These will be your personal brand words and what you use to make yourself stand out. You want to highlight anything that highlights your strengths but try to use expert buzzwords that are related to your niche so they’re recognizable by leaders in your industry. 

2. Determine who your audience is 

After identifying your unique skills and coming up with your personal brand words, the next step is to identify your target audience. Who do you want to see your personal brand statement? Focus on a direction so you can craft a statement that attracts the right kind of people.

3. Research your industry 

From there you’ll want to do your research and see what others are saying in the industry you’re looking to target. Look for problems that your industry or a specific job is lacking and think about how your skills can help fill those gaps. 

4. Craft your sentences 

Now is the fun part, crafting the sentences that will make your personal brand statement. Think about the story you want to tell and how you want others to perceive you and your personal brand. How are you different from others and what problems are you looking to solve? Combine these thoughts with your personal brand words. 

5. Revise and simplify your statements 

The simpler, the better. But make sure you’re clearly getting your point across. Make any necessary changes to your statement and find spots where you can trim things down and remove the fluff. Try saying it out loud so you can hear what it sounds like. 

6. Promote your brand statement 

Now it’s time to advocate for yourself. Start promoting your personal brand statement by putting it on your social media profiles like LinkedIn or Twitter, your personal website, in your email signature, and on your resume. 

Ready to create your personal brand statement? This downloadable template can make it easy to brainstorm and put together ideas for your personal brand statement. Fill in your answers and you’ll be well on your way to crafting the perfect brand statement to help you stand out from the competition. 

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Tips for Improving the Wiring in Your Remote Workplace

When working remotely, the wiring of your equipment is more important than you may think. Here are some tips for improving the wiring in your remote workplace.

 When working remotely, one factor to consider is properly wiring your workspace. If the cables run aimlessly around the space, it can be challenging to focus on your work. Cluttered and disorganized home offices lead to unproductivity and stress.

Continue reading to learn some tips for improving the wiring in your remote workplace to increase your productivity.

Use Power Strips

Power strips are a necessity in any remote workspace. They are a hub of power that closely connects all your devices and protects them from damage. They can also include USB attachments for charging other devices, such as your phone, throughout the workday. Consider improving your workplace by investing in one of these technology essentials.

Know Which Cables Are Which

When the cables plug into your power strip become tangled, you can easily forget which one performs which task. One tip for improving the wiring in your remote workplace is identifying the cords. A simple way to differentiate the wires is by wrapping small pieces of duct tape around each cable and writing its function in permanent marker.

For example, write “laptop charger” and “monitor one” on the respective cords. Customize these labels to your specific needs.

Keep the Area Underneath Your Desk Clean

When you work from home, it can be much easier to accumulate clutter around your desk and workplace. With all your work equipment in one space, you’ll want to keep the wires organized and clean. Collecting and tying the cables together is a great way to keep your space tidy. For the cords that stay attached to the power strip, you can use zip ties to hold them together at multiple points; this will control the loose wires and keep them secure. With the zip tie method, you don’t need to worry about your feet and chair catching on any wires. This can also help prevent any damage to your work equipment.

These small changes will be instrumental in keeping your work equipment safe, clean, and more efficient.

Hide Cables on Top of Your Desk

Now that you organized beneath the desk, it’s time to focus on the messy wires leading from the power strip to the top of your desk. If you cannot avoid loose cords, consider purchasing a large box designed to manage messy wires. This box will reveal the needed input just outside while hiding the rest of the wires within. You will need space on your desk to store the box, but it will help immensely to organize your workspace.

Use Ethernet Cables & Couplers

Finally, the best way to improve the wiring in your workplace is to use ethernet cables and couplers. Ethernet cables are wires that connect your computer directly to a router or modem for Internet access. They improve the stability of your Internet connection necessary when working remotely. On occasion, using several Ethernet cables can help improve your device’s Internet connection. You may want to consider adding an Ethernet coupler to your office.

When it comes to wiring your office, you want to avoid using too many ethernet couplers. An Ethernet coupler connects Ethernet cables to help expand the network signal throughout a space.

Learning how to organize your electronic cables will organize your workplace and prepare you for a productive day!

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5 Jobs Where You Get To Be Your Own Boss

Being your own boss is a popular career path these days, but how exactly do you get started? Check out these 5 jobs where you get to work for yourself.

 If the pandemic has taught us anything, many people are tired of traditional career paths. There are several reasons for this, including a desire to spend more time at home with family and to get out of the office building. Regardless of motivation, being in charge and accountable for your own career has plenty of exciting benefits and perks. Check out these five jobs where you get to be your own boss.

Virtual Assistant/Bookkeeper

Being an organized person is hugely beneficial in the workplace. If you’ve got basic computer skills and an eye for detail, being someone’s virtual assistant or bookkeeper can be a lucrative career. Since so many people are working from home, traditional secretaries and administrative assistants might not be as good a fit as another person working remotely.

Owner Operator Truck Driver

If you hate the idea of being stuck in an office all day, you might enjoy driving as a career. One of the many benefits of being an owner operator is that you get to set your own schedule, and you make more money. Lots of people also enjoy getting to travel the country while they work. Imagine getting to take a weekend vacation to a national park whenever you like!

Home Organizer

As we mentioned before, good organization is a highly monetizable skill. Whether you use ancient principles or follow your own system, many people want someone who can organize things for them. If you can get established in a region, you may also be able to offer your clients discounts at local organization stores.

Pro-Tip: Using Social Media To Promote Yourself

Having a strong social media game is incredibly helpful when starting your own business. Show people what your clients’ homes looked like before and after your help. Do mini-tutorials on organizing small things like a kitchen drawer. Building your brand will help people understand what services you offer, plus it advertises to new potential clients.

Professional Photographer

If you’ve got a creative side, you might enjoy working as a professional photographer. Once you buy your gear and your editing software, it’s basically up to you how much money you make. The better your photos, the more demand you’ll have, and the higher you can charge per session. Building a portfolio of work from past clients and generating a positive reputation in this industry is also essential. Like lots of freelancing jobs, there’s always a sweet spot to find where you’re working only the hours you want and still making plenty of income.

Freelance Writer

Becoming a freelance writer is another desirable job that lets you work the hours you want. Essentially, your only limit is how efficiently you can write for your deadlines, and how well you can market yourself to writing for certain industries. Even if you’re not a writer by training, you can still write for a living—there are plenty of online publications that need industry specialists.

Breaking out of the traditional office job can be daunting, but the benefits to your work/life balance and your wallet can be worth making the change. Check out these five jobs where you get to be your own boss and see what clicks for you. The world is full of opportunities for people willing to forge their own paths.

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How To Take Proper Care of Your Salon Equipment

Taking good care of your salon tools and equipment helps you to provide a better service to clients. Here’s how to take proper care of your salon equipment.

 If you own a salon, you know the importance of having the necessary equipment to run a business. Working with the best tools to cut your client’s hair is a must for any savvy hairdresser. However, having the equipment is only one part of running a successful business.

It’s also essential to take good care of your tools, supplies, and equipment so they will last for a long time and so you can provide the best possible service to your clients. Not sure how to care for your salon’s equipment? Have no fear! Here’s how to take proper care of your salon equipment.

Use Equipment as Directed

The first way to take proper care of your salon tools is by using the equipment as directed. Whether you’re using a professional salon chair, styling shears, or a blow dryer, it’s essential that you use your tools the correct way. If you are misusing equipment for the wrong purposes or not following proper instructions, you run the risk of breaking or damaging your tools.

If you’re unsure how to work or use a certain piece of equipment, re-read the instructions to become more knowledgeable on the correct methods. Most salon equipment also has online tutorials to help ensure that they are properly used at all times. Using tools correctly will help you keep your items in good working condition for longer and will allow you to take proper care of salon clients as well.

Perform Regular Cleanings

Performing regular cleanings is another necessary step in taking care of your salon equipment. Cleaning your equipment on a regular basis is a top priority. For example, after every appointment, you should wipe down and sanitize your salon chairs, and you should also clean and sanitize your cutting and styling tools. You want to take good care of your equipment and your clients. And no salon client wants to sit in a dirty chair or have their hair cut with a dirty pair of shears. Keeping a tidy workplace will only enhance your credibility and put your clients’ minds at ease. Therefore, you should always take the required steps to ensure all your tools and equipment are clean.

Get Necessary Repairs

Another helpful tip for proper salon equipment care is to get necessary repairs. Over time, your supplies and tools will experience some signs of wear and tear. It’s only natural that things will wear down after prolonged use. Therefore, you should get the necessary repairs or replacements when you notice something needs updating. Check your equipment regularly to ensure that it’s working as it should, and if it’s not, get a replacement. You want your salon business to run as efficiently as possible, and that can only happen if all your tools are functioning optimally. It’s also helpful to know tips for maintaining your salon chairs so you can keep them in good working condition.

Be sure to follow these tips for taking proper care of your salon equipment to keep your tools working well for longer. The better care you take of your equipment, the better service you will be able to provide to your clients. And just remember, satisfying and impressing your clients today will help to grow your business to reach new customers in the future!

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