How To Find a Career Coach

Are you looking for a career coach? You may be considering working with a coach if you just got laid off, are contemplating an industry change, or want to level up in your career. There are tons of coaches and professional resume writers out there, but how do you find the right one?

What steps do you take to vet them? Are there best practices when it comes to finding and selecting a career coach? Keep reading. In this article, I share proven strategies to help you find and select the best one for you.

3 Steps To Find a Career Coach

Let’s get started. The following are three steps to help you find the best career coach for your needs.

1. Consult industry associations.

Because the career industry is unregulated, anyone can claim to be a career coach. I recommend starting your research by turning to top career and resume writing industry associations such as Career Directors International (CDI), Career Thought Leaders (CTL), and the National Résumé Writers’ Association (NRWA) to identify suitable coaches. Read through the coach’s profile to get an understanding of their credentials, the clients they serve, and the services they offer.

Tip: If you’re a college student or graduate, check with your career services office to see if they can help with career advising and coaching.

2. Ask for recommendations.

As you begin to narrow down your search for a coach, you can also ask for recommendations from people you trust. Your friends, family members, and mentors may be able to recommend a career coach or professional resume writer they trust.

If you are publicly looking for a new job, you can also use social media to crowdsource recommendations. Along a similar line, you can review top career coach lists online.

3. Consider the career influencers you already follow.

Take a little time to think about the career experts you admire. Are there influencers you already follow on social media? Whose articles do you turn to for advice? Perhaps you heard someone speak at an industry conference. One of these career experts may be a good fit for you.

How To Choose a Career Coach

Now that you have identified potential experts to support you, how do you select the best one? I recommend starting by reviewing their social media presence. This allows you to quickly get a sense of their Zone of Genius and see if their career advice resonates with you. You can also observe the more personal side of their brand and take note of how they interact with their community.

But social is just the first step in researching coaches. While anyone can build an impressive social media following, you want someone who is a true expert in your industry, who can effectively address your unique pain points. What industry events does the prospective coach speak at? In what publications do they appear? How compelling is the brand they have created for themselves? Be careful. If the coach cannot successfully market themselves, how will they help market you?

Next, look closely at the testimonials they have received. How similar are you to these clients? Can you see yourself in their stories? Importantly, you want to ensure the testimonials are legitimate, verified, and from one-to-one coaching clients. Personally, I request all my testimonials via LinkedIn, which gives them greater legitimacy.

Important: The career industry is unregulated. As part of your due diligence, ask about your prospective coach’s credentials, education, and advanced training. You deserve a coach who is truly committed to the profession. Be cautious if they have not pursued advanced training in the field.

Finally, speak one-to-one with several coaches to find the best one for you. Learn more about their coaching philosophy, style, and pricing. Each coach should provide you ample time to answer any questions you have. Then, choose the coach with whom you feel the greatest connection and confidence. You’ve got this!

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Tips for Paying it Forward During a Job Search

In a competitive job market, everyone who is job seeking wants to find a new position as quickly as possible. Although it’s important to keep in mind your best interests, helping fellow job seekers advance their careers can inspire them to provide similar assistance to you and others in the future.

Whether or not you believe in that old adage, “What goes around, comes around,” you might want to consider how you can incorporate acts of kindness and concern for others into your job search. After all, human nature predisposes us towards reciprocation, and some of the people you help may end up in positions where they can return the favor.

Of course, doing good for others is intrinsically rewarding regardless of whether there is any payback.  Doing good feels good, and even a little act of kindness and a few minutes of your time can make a big difference in the outcome of a friend or family member’s job search.

Tips for Paying it Forward During a Job Search

There are countless ways that you can pay it forward while in job search mode.  The following tips will give you a few ideas about meaningful actions that will be beneficial to others – and may turn out to help you too.

Share job leads and introductions. If you know of a friend, acquaintance or coworker looking for a job in your field of expertise, or in a field where you have resources and connections, offer to help, whether by funneling job leads to them or introducing them to colleagues.

Proofread job application materials. Offer to proofread and review the resume or cover letter of a friend, and provide suggestions for strengthening the document. See if they’ll do the same for you! Another pair of eyes can help pick up typos you missed. Review these tips for updating a resume before you get started.

Help with an interview outfit. Does your friend desperately need an outfit for an upcoming interview, but doesn’t have the resources – financial, time or otherwise – to shop? Share an interviewing outfit with an individual in need. Or, if you can afford it, get them a gift certificate so they can choose their own outfit.

Contact your college. Alumni networking is one of the most effective ways for graduates to find jobs. Contact the career office at your school and offer to serve on a career panel or participate in an alumni job fair.  Suggest that your job seeking friends check to see what services their career and alumni offices provide.

Take your friend to lunch or coffee. If you have a friend who’s looking for a job or a former colleague who is now unemployed, treat him and her to lunch or coffee and a morale building session.

Set up a job shadow. Host a job shadow visit at your organization for a friend, colleague or student intrigued by your work.

Endorse and recommend on LinkedIn. Compose and submit LinkedIn recommendations for associates. Endorse your contact’s skills on LinkedIn. The more robust their (and your) LinkedIn profile is, the better your chances of getting found by helpful connections and recruiters. Here are simple tips for spiffing up your LinkedIn profile.

 Make some introductions. If you’re still employed or have connections at your former organization, introduce job seekers to colleagues who work in departments related to their interests. You can send an “e-introduction” via email, or if your interests overlap, arrange a group coffee or lunch meeting.

 Practice interviewing. Offer to help your friends or colleagues with their interviewing skills. Take turns posing as the interviewer and interviewee to mutually improve your interview technique. The more you both practice, the better the impression you’ll make. Review these tips for acing a job interview.

Refer someone to a job. Recommend another, more suitable candidate if you discover a job isn’t a good fit for you but the employer holds you in high regard.

 Organize a job club or meet up. Organize a job search group or “meet up” to share advice and contacts, review each other’s cover letters and resumes, and practice interviewing.

Offer to provide a reference. Call a contact at an employer of interest for a former colleague or a trusted friend seeking a job, and offer to give a recommendation.

Keep in touch. A job search can take a while, so remember to check back every now and then to see how your job seeking connections are doing. Even a quick email or social media message will show your support.

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Can You Get Fired for Job Searching?

There are all kinds of reasons why you might be tempted to tell your boss that you’re looking for a new job. Maybe you like your current role, except for the paycheck, and hope that sharing your search might inspire the company to offer you a raise. Perhaps you’re close to your manager and feel weird about leaving them out of the loop. Or maybe you’re just fed up and would like to see leadership squirm a bit without having to wait for a new job offer.

After all, what’s the worst that can happen? It’s not like they can fire you for job searching.

Except that it is like that. In most cases, your employer can absolutely terminate your job if they find out that you’re interviewing for other roles. Here’s why (and what to do instead).

How Your Job Hunt Can Get You Fired

If you’re like most U.S. workers, you’re employed at will, which means that you can be fired at any time, for almost any reason, without cause or notice. Private-sector employees in every state except Montana are considered at-will employees unless they’re covered by an employment contract or collective bargaining agreement.

So, unless you’re a member of a union or have a contract that explicitly states that you can’t be fired for job searching, you can be let go if your boss finds out you’re looking for a new gig.

What About Employment Discrimination?

Employment discrimination is against the law. However, the legal definition of employment discrimination is fairly narrow and covers only protected classes.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission enforces laws that prohibit discriminating against employees or job candidates based on characteristics like race, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, and age (age 40 or older). The EEOC also protects you from retaliation if you’re a whistleblower, which usually means a current or former employee who complained about discrimination.

You may also have legal cover if you’ve joined in a protected activity like discussing wages with your co-workers. The National Labor Relations Act prohibits employers from preventing workers from discussing their pay.

However, there are no federal legal protections regarding job searching. In most cases, employers will be within their rights to terminate your employment if they find out that you’re looking for a new job.

How To Job Search While You’re Employed

Looking for work while you’re employed means figuring out how to be discreet while applying and interviewing. Obviously, this can be pretty challenging if you work 9-to-5, especially if you’re expected to come into a physical office or workplace. But it’s doable.

Don’t Use Company Resources

According to Gartner, around 60% of large U.S. employers use employee monitoring software. These tools can show employers when workers log on and off, which sites and apps they visit, even how when and how much they’re using your keyboard or mouse. In most states, your employer doesn’t even have to tell you when they’re using these programs, which means that you may not know when you’re being watched. This makes life harder for sneaky job seekers who might otherwise answer recruiters’ messages or schedule interviews on company time.

To make sure your job hunt stays private, avoid using any company tools for your efforts. Ideally, this would mean sticking to after-work hours for job searching. But if your work schedule makes that challenging, at least be sure that you’re using your own phone and mobile devices to search for jobs, research employers, and communicate with hiring managers and recruiters.

If you’re used to using the company network while you’re in the office, now’s a good time to break that habit. Even if you’re on your own device, your employer may be able to see any information you transmit over their network.

Keep Your Job Search to Yourself

Having friends at the office makes the workday easier, more fun, even more productive. But no matter how close you are to your colleagues, think twice about sharing your job search with them. Not everyone is good at keeping secrets.

Avoid Lying (but Don’t Tell the Whole Truth)

One of the trickiest things to navigate during a secret job search is scheduling job interviews. If possible, it’s often best to use paid time off for this purpose. If you have paid vacation time, personal time, or some other non-sick-day time off, use it. When you do, be as vague as possible. No one is entitled to details about your personal life, regardless of whether you’re interviewing.

If you don’t have PTO, you’ll have to be trickier. Keep it simple and avoid lying when you can. Read up on company policy, so that you won’t be surprised by a request for a doctor’s note or other documentation.

Above all, remember that your ultimate loyalty should be to yourself and your career. Even the best employer would lay you off in a heartbeat if it were in their financial best interests. Be on your own side.

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How Long Does It Take To Find a New Job?

Looking for a new job? You’re not alone. Many job seekers considering a career move. Yet there is uncertainty about the length of the typical job search, particularly in today’s uncertain job market.

In fact, “How long does it take to find a new job?” is one of the most common questions I am asked as a career coach and job search expert.

How Long it Can Take to Find a Job

The honest answer is, it depends. Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ most recent report, the average duration of unemployment is approximately five months. However, this data does not paint a full picture, as it only includes Americans who are unemployed and does consider your industry, target role, or unique situation.

There are several additional factors to how long it will take to find your next job. These include your background and experience, the competitiveness of your industry, and how much time and effort you put into your search. Luck also plays a part. You must take all of these into consideration when predicting the length of your job search.

Thankfully, there are steps you can take to find a new job faster. Here are five proven ways to speed up your search:

How To Get Hired Fast

1. Get clear on your target role.

To begin, you want to get crystal clear on your target role. Job seekers often cast a wide net in the hopes of landing a job quicker, but this can backfire, as it can make you seem indecisive and underwhelms recruiters. Instead, you want to be specific about the type of role you want. Rather than targeting all “human resources” or “marketing” openings, for instance, consider which specific functional area you are drawn to, as well as the scope of responsibility you desire.

While you are at it, you also want to be explicit about the company type you are targeting. For example, do you want to work at a Fortune 100 company, a hyper-growth startup, or something in between? Take some time to reflect on your dream company, then make a spreadsheet of some targets, bookmark their careers pages (example: jobs.disneycareers.com), and check back weekly for openings that align with your requirements.

2. Update your resume.

Next, take the time to ensure your resume is not only up to date but also tailored to the target role you outlined in step 1. As you apply to roles, be sure to customize your resume to each opportunity. Remember that you do not need to rewrite your resume for each role you apply to. Instead, spend 20 to 30 minutes per application, strategically inserting keywords from the job listing into your resume and doublechecking that you’re addressing each requirement in the posting.

3. Optimize your LinkedIn profile.

Next, you want to take time to update and optimize your LinkedIn profile. This not only helps recruiters and hiring managers find you on the platform but also gives you a great resource when networking with prospects at your target company. Focus your attention on your headline, ensuring your target role is clearly listed, then add relevant keywords from your target job postings to your summary and experience. You don’t want to leave readers guessing about the roles you are seeking or the skills you possess.

4. Harness the power of networking.

 Remember that list of dream companies from step one? Revisit it regularly to see if you have any contacts working in your target roles. If you do, request an informational interview to learn more about the organization’s culture and hiring process, then request an introduction to the hiring manager. If you don’t have any contacts at your target companies, try leveraging LinkedIn to build out your network. Team Blind and Fishbowl can also help you build a network, especially if you are looking to break into the tech industry.

5. Invest in professional help.

Lastly, consider seeking out the help of a career coach to support you in your job search. The process of finding a new role can be challenging. Partnering with a trained professional can help you refine your job search strategy as well as identify barriers that may be standing in the way of landing your next role. You’ve got this!

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10 Tips To Instantly Boost Your Resume

Have you been on the job hunt for a while now? And, perhaps, despite submitting application after application, you’ve still not had any luck. Do you need to get your resume noticed by hiring managers?

We know the process can begin to feel disheartening, but don’t give up just yet. By making a few simple tweaks to your resume, you can seriously increase your chances of landing your dream role. 

How To Boost Your Resume

Here are 10 tips you can use to instantly boost your resume and boost your chances of success: 

1. Cut It Down 

Your resume should never be longer than two pages, but if you can cut it down to just one page, that’s even better! 

Recruiters don’t have much time to read through each individual application, so you should aim to get your key selling points across as concisely as possible. Just cut out any unnecessary information or fluff and aim for a short, sweet, and punchy document. 

2. Ditch the Clichés 

Recruiters read hundreds of resumes and are faced with the same cliché phrases time and time again. 

 The likes of “Always gives 110%” and “Determined go-getter with an amazing work ethic” might sound impressive, but they prove absolutely nothing to recruiters.

 So, ditch these overused buzzwords and focus your resume on hard facts, achievements, and skills instead.

3. Add Facts and Figures 

Showcasing your achievements on your resume is a great way to prove your value, and the best way to do this is by adding facts and figures. Quantifying your achievements shows how you can add real impact to an employer.

 For example, rather than merely stating that you’ve got digital marketing skills, you could say, “My SEO strategy increased traffic to the company website by 34% in six months.”

Review these tips for using numbers to quantify your achievements on your resume.

4. Remove the Jargon 

While you might be clued up on all the industry-specific terminology, acronyms, and jargon, you should avoid using these too frequently in your resume. 

Remember, the recruiter or HR personnel reading your resume might not understand what these mean and, therefore, won’t understand how they add value. 

5. Utilize Bullet Points 

Bullet points can be helpful for breaking up big chunks of text and aiding the readability of your resume.

Use them to list your key skills and responsibilities in your employment history section, as well as anywhere else you feel it’s appropriate. 

 This will make it far easier for the recruiter to navigate through the document and digest the information. 

6. Simplify your Design 

You might think that choosing a quirky or bold design will help you stand out, but overdoing it can be quite distracting and take the focus away from the all-important written content.

Therefore, it’s best to simplify your design, so it’s easier for the recruiter to scan through and find all the information they need. 

Tip: Use Canva’s free resume templates to create a professional customized resume.

7. Perfect Your Top Quarter 

The top quarter of your resume is the first thing a recruiter reads and should contain a punch professional summary and core skills list.

Be sure to spend time perfecting these sections – if recruiters don’t like what they read, they might move straight onto the next application.

Aim to make it short, snappy, and attention-grabbing. These two sections should put forward your key selling points, capabilities, and achievements and entice the reader to read further.

8. Focus on your Hard Skills 

While soft skills (teamwork, communication, flexibility, etc.) certainly have their place in the workplace, it’s more important to showcase your hard skills on your resume. 

Hard skills (coding, speaking a language, medical knowledge, project management, etc.) show the employer you’ve got the technical skills required to succeed in the role. 

For this reason, try to prioritize space for your hard skills and, where possible, back them up with qualifications, certifications, and examples to show recruiters why you’d be a good fit for the position. 

9. Tailor Every Resume 

Every resume you submit should be tailored to the specific position and company you’re applying to. To do this, research the company before you begin writing and use the job description to help inform your resume content.

Your aim should be to match the job requirements as closely as possible. Every sentence in your resume should prove your suitability, while anything that’s totally irrelevant to the role should be deleted.

10. Ask for Feedback 

Lastly, if you’re feeling disheartened and can’t understand why your resume wasn’t successful, it’s a good idea to ask for feedback. 

Most recruiters will be happy to oblige, and this can help you to improve for next time. So, get in touch with the recruiter for the last role you applied for and politely ask for some constructive feedback. 

Then, adapt your resume to suit. Continue to do this for each role you apply for, and you’ll consistently improve your chances as time goes on!

Read More: Resume Basics: Writing and Formatting Your Resume

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10 Ways To Boost Your Productivity at Work

Are you looking for ways to improve your productivity at work? If you are, it indicates that you care about quality and are time-sensitive. Both of these qualities are found in good leaders and can help you get on the path to a promotion.

Our 10-step guide helps you transform your day from reactivity (where you simply react to everything that happens in your day) to proactivity (where you take control of the things that you can and plan extra time to manage the things in your day that you cannot control). Being proactive is the key to increasing your productivity.

Proactive leaders are less overwhelmed, more emotionally stable, and clear-headed. They inspire their subordinates and earn the confidence of their superiors. These leaders go on to executive-level positions and can launch multi-million dollar businesses. While not everyone can become CEO, everyone can learn the steps to be proactive instead of reactive.

10-Step Guide To Improve Productivity at Work

Here is a quick rundown of the 10 steps. Feel free to skip to specific steps for more information.

1. Think of Your Time as Money
2. Batch When Appropriate
3. Think About Process for Tasks that Shouldn’t be Batched
4. Build Lists (Prioritizing)
5. Budget Your Time
6. Take Mini Breaks
7. Take Big Breaks
8. Learn New Technology
9. Get to Know Your Team, Then Delegate
10. Do Hard Things First

1. Think of Your Time as Money

Time is a treadmill that never stops. Before you know it, hours can pass without you accomplishing what you set out to do. Spending money only happens when we use it. Time passes whether you are using it or not.

When it comes to productivity, the main difference between proactive and reactive people is how they view time. You need time to reach project milestones, just as you need time for sleep, organization, relationships, and more. Those who think of time as money being spent are far ahead of those who don’t.

2. Batch When Appropriate

One of the biggest time wasters in our day are isolated, annoying things like checking email, voicemail, or paper filing. These tasks are not essential to any key process in your job, but they are important and need to be done.

It is tempting to jump on these tasks immediately as they occur (reacting). Instead, look at these tasks as something you’ve set aside time to tackle at a certain time of the day. For example, some people make it a point to check and organize their email inbox twice a day: once at 10 a.m. and once at 3 pm.

Batching is perfect for two reasons:

1. It allows you to “get in a groove” and move through these tasks faster, since you’ve batched them together.
2. It allows you to not worry about these tasks until their appointed time. In other words, you’ve proactively eliminated distractions throughout your work day.

 

3. Think About Process for Tasks that Shouldn’t be Batched

There are some things at work that you should never try to batch. These are tasks that have or are contingencies. What are contingencies?

A contingency simply means that a certain task must be done before another task can be done. Managing a process is much different than batches of redundant, isolated tasks. If you get too far ahead or behind on a set of tasks within a process, your productivity takes a nosedive.

If an assignment hits your desk and you are waiting for a contingency (that is, you are waiting on someone else to complete their task before you do yours), then think about whether or not doing that task now makes sense. After the contingency is met (the person behind you finishes their work), will you have to redo your part because you put “the cart before the horse?” 

Additionally, if an assignment hits your desk, and you are the contingency for the next person in the process, don’t delay. Others are waiting on you, and you don’t want to slow them down.

These ideas of contingency and process are important concepts for project managers, for example. However, if you are not a project manager and would like to be one, you can start learning these principles now. Understand what the big picture is and where you are in the process. Take your role seriously and offer support to those who handle your contingencies and those for whom you are the contingency.

For more in-depth study on process and contingencies, consider reading the book The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement by Eliyahu Goldratt. 

4. Build Lists

List building is one of the best tools available, because it teaches you how to prioritize:

• Before you settle in to begin your work for the day, make a list of the most important things that you need to accomplish that day. This list of tasks will get done should all else fail.
• Second, make a list of things that would be ideal to complete today but are not as vital as the tasks in your first list.
• Finally, make a list of things that you would love to get ahead on for the next day, if your schedule permits you to do so.

 

5. Budget Your Time

Most people “jump the gun” and make time budgeting step 1 or 2. That is unrealistic unless you have already established habits of batching, thinking about process, and prioritization. You shouldn’t ever build a budget you do not feel confident you can abide by.

Instead, as you get better at handling steps 2-4, note how long your work takes and what patterns emerge in your daily routine. Once you can identify a healthy routine, enforce it by creating a schedule.

This daily schedule is about learning how to budget your time. Some parts of your day may look different from one day to the next, and others will look much the same. Either way, having a schedule where you have budgeted your time will allow you to pick your ideal times of the day for specific tasks. It will help you eliminate distractions and ensure you can check off your priority tasks on your list while also making time to get ahead on future milestones.

Tip: You can use a calendar to help boost your productivity and stay organized.

6. Take Mini Breaks

How long does your optimal focus last? Can you go 30 minutes or an hour before your brain begins to wander hopelessly? Often, this is your brain telling you to take a break. And if you ignore your brain’s pleas for rest, your work will only get more sluggish and sloppy throughout the day.

Instead, plan to take mini breaks throughout your day. Your break can be as simple as taking a 2-minute walk, going to the water cooler, grabbing a cup of coffee, or doing anything else that gives your brain a break for a few minutes. If you take these breaks, you’ll do more in shorter periods of high focus, adding another proactive step to your work day. 

7. Take Big Breaks

After so many hours, mini breaks may no longer work for you. Instead, plan to take 15 to 30-minute breaks after a couple of hours of focused work. For many people, their employers limit how and when they take breaks. If this is the case for you, collaborate with your employer about what you need and options for taking a break.
Planning to do something you enjoy during those longer breaks will help you look forward to them. Don’t be tempted to work through these breaks, especially if your employer encourages you to take them.

8. Learn New Technology

So much of what you do can most likely be done faster and better through productivity software and apps. The catch, of course, is learning how to use these new technological tools. Getting the hang of new software feels cumbersome at first for many people. But with determination and practice, what used to take 15 minutes can now be completed with a simple click, and entire projects that used to take months now take a few days.

Then, set aside a few hours of personal time each week to learn some new tools. Afterward, your supervisor will be amazed at your performance and may ask you to lead new projects. 

9. Get to Know Your Team, Then Delegate

You can’t do everything yourself. But even if you think you can, you shouldn’t try to do everything yourself. If you work as part of a team, you may not know your team members as well as you thought you did. Taking a little bit of time to get to know them will do a great deal to improve your skills and delegate tasks for which they are the actual experts.

Don’t assume by a resume or job title that each member can handle every task. Some will need your mentorship, and others may need to be told what to do. So take your team members out for lunch, have one-on-one coffee breaks, and start tasking your team the right way.

10. Do Hard Things First

As human beings, we tend to procrastinate on tasks that make us nervous. We will go through our entire day dreading the task that must be done. So do that task first.

Get the hardest stuff done first (as much as possible). Doing so will give you more personal satisfaction, as well as improve your mood for the whole day. 

Boost Your Productivity

As human beings, we tend to procrastinate on tasks that make us nervous. We can go through our entire day dreading a job that has to be done. So do that task first.

Get the hardest stuff done first (as much as possible). Doing so will give you more personal satisfaction and improve your mood for the whole day.

For more tips, take a look at some of the ways you can use your skills to work more productively.

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Can an Employer Force You To Travel for Work?

Can your employer make you travel for work? It depends—several factors impact when an employer can require an employee to travel for business.

In many cases, your employer can require travel, but you may be able to negotiate an alternative arrangement with your employer. There are also federal and state laws that may apply.

Review information on when employers can require work travel, when you can’t be forced to travel, what can happen if you are unable or unwilling to travel, and what to do if you need to discuss options with your employer.

When Can Your Employer Force You to Travel for Work?

Whether an employer can force you to travel for work depends on company policy, your job description, whether you have a disability that would make travel challenging, your employment contract, if you have one, and the laws in your state.

When you are asked to start traveling can be a factor as well. For example, if you work in a role that didn’t require travel when you were hired, you will have a better case for not traveling than if business travel is included in your job description. However, if your circumstances have changed, you may be able to negotiate not traveling with your employer, or you may be protected by labor laws.

What To Do When You Can’t (Or Don’t Want To) Travel

What can you do if you’re not able to travel? First of all, check your responsibilities and your rights. Then, create a plan for requesting a change to your job description and discuss your circumstances with your company.

You may not have many options when asked to travel unless your employer is flexible and willing to accommodate your request. Even if you weren’t originally required to travel, in most states, employment is considered “at will,” and the company can change job requirements with no notice and no consequences. 

When you are covered by a union bargaining agreement or an employment contract or have medical or personal circumstances where you can’t travel, you may be able to come to an agreement with your employer that precludes or limits travel.

Business Travel Requirements

Here are some of the factors that can impact work-related travel requirements:

• Job description: If travel is an essential part of your job description, then your employer may be able to require you to travel, even if you don’t want to. For example, if you’re a sales representative who is required to travel to meet with clients, your employer may be able to require you to do so, even if you have commitments that make it difficult for you to travel.
• Employment contract: If you have an employment contract, it may specify whether or not travel is required. If your contract states that travel is required, you may be obligated to travel, even if you don’t want to. You may be considered in breach of contract if you don’t adhere to it.
• Medical issues: If you have a medical issue or disability that would make travel impossible or difficult, you may be able to opt out of traveling. For employees with disabilities, employers may need to make accommodations for workers who can’t travel for work.
• Family reasons: When you have child care or eldercare issues, an ill family member, or other personal circumstances, you may be able to avoid or limit travel, at least temporarily. The federal Family and Medical Leave Act allows covered employees to take unpaid leave from work. Some states also have laws that provide family and medical leave to eligible employees.
• State laws: Some states have laws that protect employees from being forced to travel. Check with your state department of labor for information on guidelines in your location.

 

Can You Be Fired for Refusing To Travel?

If you are considered an at-will employee, an employer can fire you without reason or warning in most states. There are some exceptions to employment at will, such as workers covered by state and federal law protections, collective bargaining agreements, contracts, public policy, and other circumstances. 

It’s important to be careful when you ask for flexibility at work, especially if you aren’t covered by an agreement that provides it. You don’t want to lose your job because you refused to travel. If you think that may happen, it can be better to start a job search and look for a position where travel isn’t a requirement.

What To Do if You’re Unable To Travel

When traveling for work isn’t feasible, you should first write an explanation for why you can’t travel so you’re prepared to talk to your employer. It will be easier to discuss if you have the details ready to share. If there are medical reasons why travel is an issue, ask your doctor for a letter explaining the circumstances.

Be prepared to suggest options, such as the following:

• How you can get the job done without having to travel
• Working remotely
• Video options for conferences
• Virtual meetings
• Equivalent local options for conferences, meetings, and customer visits
• Team member traveling in your place
• Shifting of job responsibilities 
• Transferring to another position

 

Talk To Your Employer About Options

If possible, it’s best to talk to your employer before you’re asked to travel. Asking in advance will preclude a difficult situation where you have to say that you can’t go at the last minute.

Discuss the situation with your manager or human resources department. If you belong to a union, talk to your representative.

First, let them know how important the job is to you. Next, explain your reasons for being unable to travel and see if there is a way for you to meet your job duties without traveling. Share your suggestions for a workaround that will make sense for both you and the company. For instance, suggest video conferences, virtual meetings, or local arrangements whenever possible.

If your request is based on medical or family circumstances, provide documentation, such as medical certificates or legal documents, to support your case for exemption.

Note: Your employer may be willing to explore alternatives or make accommodations for you, such as allowing you to work remotely, changing your job description, or adjusting the travel schedule to accommodate your needs.

More Options to Consider

Explore Internal Resources. Consult your company’s human resources department or employee assistance program (EAP) if available. They can provide guidance, mediate discussions, or offer resources to address your concerns effectively.

Get Legal Advice. If you believe your employer is unfairly pressuring you to travel or your concerns are not being addressed, consider seeking legal advice from an employment attorney. They can assess your situation and provide guidance based on applicable laws and regulations.

Check with the EEOC. If your employer is unwilling to make accommodations for you, you may have the option to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC enforces laws that protect employees from discrimination, including discrimination based on disability. If you can show that your employer requires you to travel and you are unable to do so because of your disability, you may be able to file a successful complaint with the EEOC.

Compensation for Travel Time

If you’re traveling during working hours, the U.S. Department of Labor considers travel during work hours compensable work time.

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) explains that, generally, time spent traveling is compensated unless it is commuting time between home and work, or an overnight stay is required and travel time outside the employee’s normal work hours.

The Bottom Line

While employers generally have the authority to require work travel under certain circumstances, employees also have rights and options.

It’s important to understand the terms of your employment contract, engage in open communication with your employer, and explore potential alternatives that may accommodate your concerns or limitations. 

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How To Spot and Avoid Job Scams

Are you worried that the job you’re considering applying for could be a scam? What’s the best way to avoid fake job listings and getting scammed by phony employers when job searching?

The Better Business Bureau reports that job scams are rising and are one of the riskiest in terms of prevalence, the likelihood of losing money, and the amount of money you can lose. Millions of people are exposed to job scams yearly, and victims lose more than $2 billion annually.

Here’s what you need to know about the different types of job scams, how to avoid getting taken advantage of, and what to do if you’ve been scammed.

Types of Job Scams

Most Common Job Scams

How can you get scammed during a job search? Here are some job scams to watch out for, with details of how the scam works, what to watch for, and how to avoid getting scammed.

• Credit report scams
• Data entry scams
• Direct deposit information is required (before you’re hired)
• Email hiring scams
• Fake job posting
• Fake job application
• Fake recruiter (they may not even work for the company they say they are representing)
• LinkedIn scams
• Money laundering job scams
• Nanny scams
• Package forwarding scams
• Pay for background check
• Pay for credit report
• Pay for equipment to do the job
• Pay for office supplies
• Pay for a start-up kit
• Pay for software
• Pay for training
• Pay for training materials
• Pay to sign up with a company
• Text from your boss scams
• Text or chat message hiring scams
• Trial employment scam (company collects your personal information, but there isn’t a job)
• Unemployment scams
• You’re hired scam (the company collects your personal information, but there isn’t a job)
• Wire money scams
• Work-at-home job scams

 

Some jobs are more likely to be scams than others. Here’s a list from FlexJobs of 15 common job search scams, with advice on how to protect yourself from them.

New Employment-Related Scams

Bank of America reports on new scams to avoid, including scammers that pretend they are legitimate companies and ask you to download an app or provide access to your computer. Here’s how to avoid this and other common scams.

How To Avoid Getting Scammed

Here are some ways to tell if a job is a scam and to avoid getting scammed. Save yourself some time, aggravation, and money; if you’re unsure if a job or company is legitimate, check them out carefully before applying.

Know What to Look For

• Research the company before responding to their email.
• Carefully review the job description to look for signs that it’s a scam.
• Be aware of a reasonable salary range for the position—and be suspicious of any offers that far exceed that range.
• Never volunteer personal information such as bank account numbers during the interview process.
• Remember that legitimate employers will not ask you to pay for a background check, training, or a kit in order to get started.

 

Check Scam Lists

Check with organizations like the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission to see if the company has been reported as a scammer. If the company is a fraud, another job seeker may have reported them.

Look for Red Flags

Visit the company’s website. Look for potential red flags indicating that the company is not what they seem. Does the site fit with how they describe the company? Is it secure? How professional does the site look? Is there contact information? Are jobs and career information posted on the site?

Check Out the Company

• Is the company name legitimate? Is this company name similar to that of another “real” organization? Sometimes, scammers change a letter or two in the website URL or the email address they are using to make it look legitimate.
• Does the company have a website? If the company doesn’t have a website, that’s a bad sign. Most legitimate businesses have a web presence, and at least some information should show up when you search for it online.
• Check the Google search results. Use Google to research the company. Search by the company name to see what information you can find. (If the company won’t give you a name, don’t bother applying.) Take it one step further and search by “company name scam” to see if you can find information about reported scams.
• Check social media. Most major organizations have a presence on LinkedIn and social media. Visit the company’s pages to review what type of information they are posting. Also, check the comments to see what people are saying (good or bad) about the organization.
• Read the reviews. If you find a company that has been reported to be a scammer, read the reviews carefully to understand the issue and how the job seeker was taken advantage of.

 

Check the Job Details

If compensation isn’t listed in the job posting, try to find out if there’s a salary or if you’re paid on commission. Ask how much you’re paid, how often you are paid, and how you are paid. If the company doesn’t pay an hourly rate or a salary, carefully check out the details.

Does the Company Want Money?

Do not pay money—for anything. Legitimate employers don’t charge to hire you. Don’t pay for credit reports, background checks, start-up kits, software, supplies, technology, training, or other tools or procedures. Don’t send money for work-at-home directories, advice on getting hired, company information, products, or services to get started, or for anything else related to a job.

Check the Company’s References

Ask for references if you’re not sure if the company is legitimate. Request a list, then contact the references to ask how the job is working out for them. If the company isn’t willing to provide references, don’t waste your time applying.

Don’t Expect to Get Rich Quick

Avoid listings that guarantee you wealth and financial success or that will help you get rich fast. Stay clear of listings that offer high income for working a few hours a week. The chances of getting rich quickly online are slim to none.

Does It Sound Too Good to Be True?

If it sounds too good to be true, you can be sure it is. Also, read any “offers” you get very carefully. With some scams, it can be hard to tell what’s real and fake. Read the fine print and never share your personal information until you’re sure about a company.

Spot and Report Scams on Job Sites

Some of the major sites have advice on how to avoid scams on their platforms. If you’re concerned about a job posting you’ve found, here’s how to check it out.

• Craigslist: Avoiding Scams
• Facebook: How to Spot and Avoid Scams on Facebook and Instagram
• Fiverr: Trust and Safety
• Glassdoor: Fraudulent Job Postings
• Indeed: Guidelines for Safe Job Search
• LinkedIn: Recognize and Report Scams
• Monster Security Center
• Staying Safe on Upwork
• Twitter Financial Scam Policy

 

How To Report a Scam

Have you become a victim of a scam? There are several ways to report a job scam, including:

• The FTC
• Your state attorney general
• The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center

 

Tip: Review the top 10 warning signs that a job is a scam to avoid getting scammed.

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What is a Mock Interview?

What’s a mock interview, and how can participating in one help you get a new job? One of the hardest things about getting hired is interviewing. Even if you’ve been interviewed many times, it can be stressful. You’re on the spot, and you need to come up with answers to interview questions without waiting too long to respond.

There are ways you can practice interviewing, both in person and online, so you’re prepared to make the best impression and ace the interview. One of those ways is to participate in a mock interview, which is very similar to an actual job interview, other than you’re not getting hired. With some mock interviews, you’ll even be able to practice interviewing specifically for a role just like the one you’re a candidate for in real life.

Here’s what you need to know about mock interviews, what they are and how they work, and how to find and schedule a practice interview to help you prepare for the interview process.

What is a Mock Interview?

A mock interview is a simulated job interview designed to help you practice and prepare for an actual job interview. Mock interviews can be conducted in person or online:

•  They can be conducted in person or virtually by experienced professionals, career coaches, peers, networking connections, or even family who can provide feedback and guidance. 
• Other options for mock interviews include online interview practice tools (many are free) that ask questions and evaluate your responses, and virtual in-person practice interviewing on websites that offer mock interviews.

 

How Mock Interviews Work

Before the Interview

One of the most important things you can do before the interview is to ensure all your technology is in working order. If you’re not sure, you can join a Zoom test meeting to be sure.

Take the time to prepare, just as you would for a video interview for a job. Find a quiet place to do the interivew, and decide what you will wear.

If you have questions about the process or interviewing in general, make a list of them so you don’t forget what you want to learn about.

During the Interview

During a mock interview, the interviewer (the person conducting the mock interview) will ask you a series of questions similar to those you might encounter in a real job interview. The goal is to replicate the interview experience as closely as possible. The experience will be like an actual job interview, with the bonus of expert advice on what you can improve.

Mock interviews give you the opportunity to practice your responses to common interview questions and develop effective interviewing techniques. You can refine your answers, improve your confidence, and learn how to handle challenging questions.

Some mock interviews can be tailored to specific industries or job positions, providing you with relevant practice and insights into the requirements of your target job.

After the Interview 

After the interview, the interviewer will provide feedback on your performance. This feedback may cover your responses, body language, communication skills, and overall interview demeanor. They may point out areas where you excelled and need improvement.

Interviewers may offer personalized tips and strategies to help you improve your interview performance. This guidance can be invaluable in addressing your weaknesses and building on your strengths.

How To Line Up a Mock Interview

There are many different ways you can participate in a mock interview, including the following:

College Career Centers: Many colleges and universities have career centers that offer mock interviews to students and alumni. Check with your career services office to see what type of practice interview help is available.

Online Practice Interviews: Online platforms and websites offer mock interview services. These platforms may provide pre-recorded interview questions, virtual interview simulations, or the option to connect with experienced interviewers for feedback.

Career and Interview Coaches: Consider hiring a career coach or interview coach specializing in interview preparation. They can conduct mock interviews and provide tailored guidance.

Friends and Family: You can practice with peers and family. While they may not have professional expertise, they can provide valuable feedback and help you practice.

Examples of Mock Interview Questions 

In a mock interview, the questions are typically similar to those you might encounter in a real job interview. The goal is to mirror the interview experience as closely as possible so that you can practice your responses and improve your interviewing skills. 

Here are some questions that you may be asked:

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why do you want to work for this company?
• What do you know about the industry/role?
• How has your experience prepared you for this role?
• What makes you the best candidate for the job?
• Why should we hire you?
• How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time?
• What motivates you?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Describe how you handled a challenging situation you’ve faced at work.
• Tell me about a time when you worked in a team.
• What is your most outstanding professional achievement?
• Why are you leaving your job?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

 

Tip: Review these top 10 interview questions employers ask, with examples of the best answers to get started.

The Bottom Line

Mock interviews can help boost your confidence and reduce anxiety associated with actual interviews. The more you practice, the more comfortable and prepared you will feel when interviewing for real jobs. 

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Should You Accept a Job You Don’t Really Want?

While many job seekers would be elated to receive a job offer, particularly in the current employment market, what happens when you’re offered a role you don’t want but need to take? 

Are there factors you should keep in mind before accepting a position that doesn’t excite you? Continue reading to learn what to do if you find yourself with a job offer you’re not 100% sure about.

Is It Okay To Take a Job You Don’t Want?

There are a host of reasons why you might accept a role you don’t want, and all of them are acceptable. While it would be great if everyone had an exceptionally well-paying job that they loved, excitement is not a requirement. In other words, you can take a job you don’t want, and you don’t have to justify your reasoning for accepting it to anyone. Period.

One of the most common reasons for accepting a mediocre job is the need to pay bills, and there’s nothing wrong with accepting a position you don’t want in order to continue living. After all, we live in a capitalist society where most people need to work to survive.

Similarly, many people accept jobs to maintain health insurance or immigration status. Again, you must prioritize your health and livelihood, so don’t feel guilty for taking a role to merely get by.

Another common reason I see for people accepting jobs they don’t want is because they’re “running away” from their current position with the hopes that the next one will be better. Although there’s nothing wrong with this approach, I recommend trying to shift toward finding a job you can “run toward,” since enthusiasm can be a stronger motivator and lead to long-term career satisfaction.

What To Do If You’re Offered a Job You Don’t Want?

Now, if you’re offered a position you don’t necessarily want but feel obligated to take it, here are a few things to bear in mind:

1. Consider the long-term potential.

If you admire the company but aren’t a fan of the specific position, you might consider using it as a “lily pad” that you can rest on before moving on to your target role.

Keep in mind that many companies require you to stick in an initial role for 6 or 12 months before being considered for a move to another department. That said, many companies have internal mobility programs to retain and promote their top talent.

2. Don’t halt your job search.

You can also continue to look for opportunities externally after you accept the position. However, if you leave your new company shortly after joining, you may burn bridges with the employer, as well as anyone who referred you to the role. That said, many people understand that if a “dream job” arises, you need to take it!

3. Remember that first impressions can be inaccurate.

Lastly, know that your first impression may have been wrong, and you may even end up loving the role and company. (The opposite is possible, of course, too.) Remember that there’s only so much you can learn about a company’s culture from the outside.

Should You Take a Job You Don’t Want?

While only you can decide whether you should take a job you’re not truly interested in, as a career coach, I’ve witnessed many of my clients wrestle with whether to accept an inferior role or wait out for “the one.”

When my clients are unemployed, they often find a sense of relief in accepting a role, even when it’s not their ideal job, as it relieves the stress of needing to secure “any” employment and allows them to focus on finding the right fit.

On the other hand, if they’re employed and simply “running away” from their current workplace, the facade of the new position quickly evaporates, and they find themselves on the job market again in a few months, if not quicker.

Regardless of your current situation, I recommend reading this article before making your decision, as it will give you steps for evaluating a job offer.

Is It Bad To Accept a Job Offer And Keep Looking?

So, if you do accept the less-than-ideal position, should you continue looking for that dream role, or should you call off your search?

I might get some flak from employers for this, but I don’t believe it’s a bad idea to keep submitting applications and interviewing for roles after you receive a job offer, particularly in today’s employment market.

This is one of the reasons I encourage job seekers to wait until after their probationary period has ended before updating their LinkedIn profile with their new company info or announcing their role on the platform.

Importantly, though, unless the role you take is contract or temporary, you’ll want to be discreet regarding your job search, as you don’t want to alert your new employer that you’re already trying to find an exit path.

What To Do If You Regret Accepting a Job?

Speaking of which, what should you do if you accept a job and regret your decision?

Although conducting adequate research and asking the right questions while interviewing can minimize the likelihood of regretting your decision, it’s still possible that you’ll be unhappy in your new job.

This is another reason I advise waiting until you’ve been at your new organization for a few months before updating your LinkedIn profile. It it gives you time to test the waters and ensure the company and position match what was advertised during the interview process.

If you do end up disliking your new role, even after you’ve given yourself ample time to adjust, you’ll want to review and weigh your available options, which might include:

• Speaking with your manager or HR representative about switching roles or departments.
• Returning to your previous company.
• Continuing your job search (see the section above).
• Trying to stick out the job and discover whether you can tolerate it.

 

Final Thoughts On Accepting A Job You Don’t Want

Only you can decide if it makes sense to accept a job you don’t want, and since it’s easier said than done, try not to feel bad about your ultimate decision. At the end of the day, you must look out for yourself. You’ve got this!

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How To Send an Email Message That Will Get Read

Do you ever receive an email and groan? Dread opening missives from certain co-workers? Delay your response to long, confusing emails?

Follow these practical tips to ensure that no one ever feels that way about your emails: use smart formatting and judicious editing to ensure that your missives get a fast, helpful response.

How to Write a Successful Email

Is This Email Necessary?

It’s easy to send an email: no paper or ink is required, nor is a stamp or a visit to the post office. No wonder people send lots of emails, and frequently! But don’t let the ease of the experience persuade you to send unnecessary correspondence. Being good at email starts with restrained use of the “new message” and “reply” buttons in your inbox.

If your email will likely be deleted by its recipients (such as quick “got it!” or “thanks” emails sent to a wide CC list) consider skipping it. Similarly, if you could search your email archives or Google for an answer, consider trying that before sending an email.

Start With a Strong Subject Line

Make your subject line descriptive and clear: rather than saying “quick question” you can write “question re: Thurs meeting” or even “Thurs meeting – bring print-outs?” Make it easy for people to know what to expect from an email even before they open it.

When possible, stick to one topic per email, too – this helps people to maintain their email filing system, and can also speed up response-time.

Use a Greeting

It’s an easy office habit to get in: the overly efficient email, sans greeting, sign off, or any mannerly bits. But think about how differently these two emails feel:

Can you stop by my office?

Or

Hi Bob,

Hope your day is going well! When you have a free moment, can you stop by my office? I have some questions about project X that I think will be easiest to review in person.

Thanks,

Sara

Depending on what exactly is going on with project X, it’s quite possible that either one of these emails would be stress inducing. But certainly the first email seems curt to the point of anger. A lack of greetings, and a neglect of some social politeness can have that effect.

By all means, use that to your advantage if someone is in trouble – but if they’re not, and you don’t want to come across as frustrated or angry, err on the side of starting emails with a greeting, and ending them with a sign-off.

How To Format Your Message

Make it easy for people to quickly read your email, and absorb the major points, with judicious use of formatting.

If your email is more than a few sentences, make sure it can be easily scanned: use bolded subheads, numbered points or questions, or bullet points to break up the text.

Keep Emails Brief and Direct

You know the acronym “tl; dr”? It stands for “Too long; didn’t read” — and it’s a feeling you never want to inspire when sending an email.

Sometimes a long email can’t be avoided, but in general, strive to keep emails as brief as possible. Maybe your first draft will sprawl into multiple paragraphs: give that a read-through before sending, and see if you can use the formatting tips below to reduce the volume of text.

Think Before Abbreviating

There’s a fine art to using emoticons, communicating in gifs, or inserting abbreviations such as “LOL” or even work-jargon such as “LMK.” A well-placed winky-face can do a lot to easing tension in an email; it can also create a jarring note when sent to a prospective client who you haven’t communicated with before.

Not sure if abbreviations, emoticons, or gif are the right tone for an email? Tread lightly, and err on the side of mirroring co-workers’ usage.

Check for Typos

Proofread once — or even twice — before sending an email. Catching your own typos is tricky — print out important emails and review the hard copy. Or, try reading emails aloud to catch silly errors, such as missing words or typos.

Always check that you’ve addressed your email to the correct person. And check the spelling of people’s names: there’s only a one-letter difference between Madeleine and Madeline, Sarah and Sara, but people with these names really spot the difference.

Make Follow-Up Clear

What are the next steps? This should be clear from your email – in fact, you can even have a section titled “next steps” and lay out a few bullet points of requests. Save this for more complicated situations; in general, you can end your email by saying

And if your email requires a response, always make certain that it’s clear what you want, whether it’s more information, approval of a plan, or answers to questions. You can even include a section titled “what’s next” or if you’re sending to multiple people, call them out by name with your request.

Copy and Attach

If you’re sending an attachment, consider making it easier on recipients, by also copying the document into the body of the email. It’s a small step you’re saving for people, but a helpful one. (Bonus tip: if you’re planning to send an attachment, attach it to the email before you even begin writing – that way, you can be sure it’s actually included.)

More Email Tips

• Never email when angry: Frustrated by a situation, or an email you received yourself? Don’t respond while angry: give yourself an hour, at least, to cool down. Or, open up a new email, keep the “to” field blank, and write out the email you wish you could send. Get all your feelings out, and then hit delete.
• Don’t CC unnecessarily: It can feel tempting to CC half the world. How better to show off how hard you’re working? Resist the urge! Unnecessary emails are a time waster, appreciated by no one.
• Assume emails will go public: Write as though your email may someday be viewed by your boss, mom, spouse, and friends. Imagine it on the front page of the newspaper. Avoid off-color jokes, insults, and anything you wouldn’t feel proud to see printed in black-and-white.
• Write with your recipient in mind: The email you send to your office bestie will read differently than the one sent to your boss. And the email going to your HR representative or an outside client will read differently still. Adapt your tone and style to fit the person who will be reading your email.

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How Long Does It Take To Hear Back After an Interview?

Waiting to hear back after an interview can feel excruciating. As a career coach, job seekers often reach out to me wondering when it’s appropriate to follow up with a recruiter. Understanding the nuances of a modern-day interview process can help you decide when it makes sense to follow up on your candidacy.

In this article, I share how long it usually takes to hear back from an interview, as well as common factors that impact the hiring timeline. I conclude with a template email you can use to follow up on your candidacy.

When Should You Expect To Hear Back After a Job Interview?

To begin, how long should you expect to wait after a job interview before you hear back regarding their decision? The short answer is, it depends. This is because there can easily be a half-dozen or more stages in a typical hiring process, which may include:

• Application/resume review
• Recruiter interview
• Technical interview
• Hiring manager interview
• Peer interview(s)
• Working interview
• Presentation Interview
• Skip-level interview
• HR interview
• Hiring decision
• Salary negotiation
• Offer letter
• Background check

Each of these stages takes time to execute, and the timeframe can vary significantly from company to company, but if you’re looking for a concrete length of time, recent research from Glassdoor puts the average interview length in the United States at approximately three and a half weeks, from start to finish.

Factors Impacting How Long It Takes To Hear Back After a Job Interview

Now, let’s dive into some of the factors that can impact how long it takes back to hear back after an interview.

1. Your stage in the hiring process.

For starters, your stage in the hiring process is often a major determinant of how long it will take to hear back after an interview. Waiting to hear back after interviewing with the recruiter, for instance, will look different than waiting on a final hiring decision.

Consider the fact that moving to the next round in the interview process often only requires the sign-off of one or two people, while extending a job offer can necessitate the approval of multiple departments.

2. The number of decision-makers.

Similarly, the number of decision-makers often grows the further along you are in the interview process. Determining who makes it past the screening interview typically involves just the recruiter and perhaps the hiring manager.

As you progress through the interview process, however, there will likely be additional decision-makers, as well as increased feedback to synthesize, which can significantly increase the length of time between each subsequent stage of the interview process.

To put it simply, don’t be surprised if it takes a week or more before you receive an offer letter after your final letter. This is normal and nothing to be nervous about.

3. The role you’re interviewing for.

Another major factor impacting how long it will take to hear back after an interview is the role itself. Both technical and executive roles often have lengthier interview processes, as there tend to be additional rounds of interviews. When it comes to executive roles, aligning schedules can be a challenge, which can prolong the interview process.

While I recognize that it can feel agonizing, a senior manager or executive-level interview process can easily extend to multiple months. This is particularly true during certain times of the year.

4. The time of year.

Speaking of which, the time of year can play a significant role in the hiring timeline. If the company is experiencing rapid growth or has a new initiative on the horizon, it may choose to expedite hiring decisions. Conversely, if the company is experiencing sluggish sales, it may deprioritize hiring.

Generally speaking, the holidays tend to be a slower time of year for hiring, so you can expect recruiters and hiring managers to take a bit longer to get back to you after interviewing. That said, some companies specifically ramp up hiring during the holidays, so it’s important to consider the nuances of your industry and the specific company.

How To Follow Up With a Recruiter After An Interview: Example Email

So how do you effectively follow up on the status of your candidacy after an interview? Here’s a template email you can use:

Hi [Recruiter or Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope this message finds you fabulous. Thank you, again, for speaking with me regarding the [Position Name] position with [Company Name].

I am writing to see if you need anything additional from me to facilitate the interview process.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]

Final Note

One way to remain patient as you wait to hear back on your candidacy is to ask the recruiter for a timeline at the end of your interview as to when you can expect to hear back regarding the next steps.

And if you happen to forget to ask for a timeline, don’t be afraid to send a quick email checking in on the interview process (see the example email above). You’ve got this!

The post How Long Does It Take To Hear Back After an Interview? appeared first on Career Tool Belt.

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When Can You Work Two Full-Time Jobs?

Can you work at more than one full-time job? Is it legal to have multiple jobs? How can you juggle roles, if you’ve got more than one of them? How can you handle working at two full-time positions?

Working two full-time jobs used to be a virtual impossibility. Because the majority of workers performed their duties at a physical work site, holding down two positions meant putting in at least 80 hours a week—tough to pull off, if you also need to commute, eat, sleep, and attend to any responsibilities outside of work.

But the world of work is changing. As more employers embrace telecommuting and full-time remote jobs, another trend has emerged: the full-time double-timer. For obvious reasons, it’s hard to come by accurate stats on just how many people are working two full-time jobs. But it’s safe to say that the practice is on the rise. So, can you—and should you—join them?

Can You Work at Multiple Full-Time Jobs?

Here’s what you need to consider when you’re thinking about working at more than one job.

Are You Breaking the Rules?

Federal and State Laws

Federal law doesn’t regulate the number of jobs someone can hold. However, there are limits to the hours some occupations can work. For example, drivers have a maximum daily hours of service limit. There are also limits to the number of hours per week minors can work.

Public employees, including federal, state, and local government workers, often face restrictions on outside employment to avoid conflicts of interest.

Company Policies and Employment Contracts

If you have an employment contract or employee handbook, now’s the time to consult them. Many companies have rules in place to prohibit moonlighting (otherwise known as “working two jobs”). You’ll want to make sure you understand corporate policy, especially if you’ve signed a contract stating that you’ll adhere to it.

But even if your employer doesn’t specifically forbid moonlighting, you can still get in trouble for it. Look for contract language restricting your ability to work for competitors, use the company’s intellectual property for another organization, or similar.

What Are Your Other Responsibilities?

Even if you’re young and single and willing to put your hobbies and friendships on a shelf for a while, you have responsibilities outside of work. Can you take care of yourself and maintain your health and happiness if you hold two jobs?

Some people don’t need a lot of sleep. Others may be willing to multitask by eating at their desk or exercising while they work by incorporating a treadmill desk. But keep in mind that even those folks need some downtime eventually. Be honest with yourself about what you can handle.

What Are Your Goals?

Think about why you want to work two full-time jobs. Maybe you’re hoping to pay down debt, build up savings, or get a head start on a second career. Whatever your reasons, it’s important to be clear about them. Knowing why you’re embarking on this experiment will help you define success in the short- and long-term.

What Is the Long-Term Plan?

And speaking of the long-term, know what that looks like. For most people, working 80-plus hours a week won’t work as a permanent career choice. Even if you love what you do, you are likely to want other things in your life besides work at some point.

In fact, loving what you do may be the biggest reason to make the two-jobs lifestyle a short-term choice. In the long run, you might want to get promoted, start your own business, or otherwise focus your professional life on a single track.

What To Consider Before You Add a Second Job

If you’re considering working two full-time jobs, it’s important to figure out how you will be able to do both successfully. Consider the following factors before saying “yes” to a second job:

Juggling the workload: Consider your personal circumstances, including your health, family commitments, and overall capacity to handle the workload. Do you have enough bandwidth to work full-time at more than one job?

The job requirements: Evaluate the requirements for each position and whether you can realistically manage them. If the hours overlap, how will you handle meetings and other responsibilities?

Company policies and employment contracts: Many employers have policies against employees having another full-time job, especially if the second job is in the same industry or poses a conflict of interest. Review your employment contracts and company policies to ensure you’re not violating any terms.

Double dipping: If you get paid by both employers for the same hours, it can be considered time theft and can result in disciplinary action from your employer.

The feasibility of working two jobs simultaneously: Consider the long-term sustainability of juggling two jobs and whether it aligns with your career goals and personal life. Does adding a second full-time role make sense, or is there a better option?

How To Handle Two Full-Time Jobs

Ready to add another full-time job to your schedule? Create a plan to make it work. Figure out how you’ll manage your workload, time, and interactions with two sets of bosses.

Create a System

Remember that you won’t have a lot of energy to spare, so create a system that will work even when you’re tired or otherwise feeling unproductive. For example, you might try working on different laptops, especially if they’re supplied by your employers, so that you don’t accidentally message one boss about the other boss’s priorities.

Be Careful

Above all, be discreet. Even if you’ve approved your plan with both companies, you won’t want to emphasize your dual commitments. And should you decide to keep things under wraps, remember: a secret that involves two people isn’t a secret. Don’t tell any of your colleagues anything that you don’t want to get back to the rest of your team.

What Are the Alternatives?

If you’ve read this far and you’re having second thoughts, know that you don’t have to throw out your plans altogether. There are other ways to earn more money, gain experience, or try new professional paths without taking on a second full-time job:

• Freelance or contract work: Earn extra money while gaining valuable work experience—without committing to another 40-hour-per-week job.
• Education or internships: Train for a job that pays more and fits better with your personal and professional goals.
• Negotiate salary or find a new job: Earn more without doubling your workload by negotiating a raise or looking for a better paying role.

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