6 Ways To Simplify Your Job Search

If you spent time using all the job search sites, tools, apps, and suggested techniques for getting hired that have proliferated online you wouldn’t have much time to actually job hunt. Even though some of those things can help you get hired, you don’t need most of them. Back to basics works for a lot of things, and job hunting is one of them.

Here are six ways to keep it simple when job searching, and to get the most out of the time you have to spend on looking for your next new job.

How To Simplify Your Job Search

Have Your Job Application Materials Ready

Even if you’re not really thinking about a new job, it’s always a good idea to have your application materials ready.  You never know when a perfect opportunity might come along, and when it does you will want to be ready to apply. On the flip side, you could have an unwelcome surprise and lose your position without much— or even any—notice. Then you will need to be prepared to gear up your job hunt quickly.

The trick to being ready to apply is to keep your resume updated and your LinkedIn profile current. Make a note on your calendar to check both every month or so. Rework the job descriptions, if you need to, and add any new credentials and skills you’ve earned to both. Even polishing them up a little can help make you a stronger candidate.

Also have a list of all the information you need to complete a job application. If you see a position that’s of interest, you’ll be able to copy and paste from your resume, LinkedIn, and your list to get your application in fast.

Make Your Own Cover Letter Template

Take the time to create a cover letter template you can tweak and edit for each job you apply for. You won’t need to start from scratch every time you apply for a job. Create a cover letter file that includes your contact information, an introductory paragraph, and a closing.

When you’re ready to get started on your next cover letter, simply write the paragraph(s) that match your qualifications to the job and show the employer why you should get the interview.

Pick a Job Site (or Two) and Go Direct

You don’t need to use every job site and social media site that is out there. Pick a few sites that give you good listings.  It might take some trial and error to find out which sites have the best listings, but once you’ve found a couple that work for you ignore the rest. Here are five of the best job sites to get you started.

Another time saver is to skip the middle person and go directly to the company websites of employers of interest. For large employers, you’ll be able to create an online profile you can use to apply for as many jobs as you want. With smaller companies, you may be able to find listings that aren’t listed elsewhere online.

Streamline Your Search Queries

Use advanced search options so you get job listings that are a close match to your skills and interests. In a job market with lots of hiring going on, less can be more. It’s better to stay focused and apply for jobs you’re qualified for. You’ll be able to search by:

• Job Title
• Keywords
• Employer
• Location
• Type of job

Tip: On Indeed.com, the link to the advanced search options is under “Find Jobs.”

Skip Social

Do you need social media to job search? The answer is yes if you’re applying for jobs with “social media” in the job description. Otherwise, you may be able to get by without getting sucked into the huge time drain social networking can be. An exception would be if you have dream companies you’d love to work for. In that case, check the company’s social pages for the newest job postings.

While we’re on the social topic, if you’ve allocated time for your job search, which is always a good idea, ignore your Facebook feed and all your other social sites while you’re in job hunt mode. Social media is a great way to procrastinate and avoid actually job searching. So, try not to fall into that trap.

Be Prepared

When you start a job search, besides getting your resume out there, it’s a good idea to be prepared for what comes next in the hiring process.

• Have a couple of interview outfits ready. That way you’ll be ready for a quick turnaround for both a first and second interview when you get contacted by a hiring manager.
• Review the interview questions you’ll most likely be asked, and have some of your own ready to ask the employer.
• Make a list of everything you’ll need to bring to the interview with you.
• Line up some references who can speak to your qualifications.
• Know what you’re worth. Take some time to research salaries for the jobs you’re interested in. It will be much easier to negotiate salary if you have a general idea of what you can expect (and what you need) to earn on your next job.
• Be ready to resign. Think about how you’re going to handle your resignation when you’re ready to turn it in. Know how much notice you’ll need to give, and think about what you’re going to say to your boss.
• Also be aware of what happens to your employee benefits, retirement plan, and accrued vacation leave when you quit.

Job searching can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re new to the job market or haven’t job hunted in a while, it’s better to start simple. If you don’t find enough good leads or you’re struggling to get hired, you can expand your search. But, you may not even need to do more than the basics to get your next job lined up.

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/xPVLT7H

Read More

How To Get a Job After You Have Been Fired

If you’ve lost your job, bouncing back isn’t always an easy task. After a firing, it’s important to think and act strategically to avoid the pitfalls of being seen as someone who has been terminated, and to counteract negative perceptions about your candidacy for future jobs.

First, take care of the basics, such as filing for unemployment and checking on the benefits you may be eligible for when you lose a job. Then, get ready to start a job search and get hired.

These tips can help you to formulate a plan that will move you forward with your career.

12 Tips for Getting a Job After You Have Been Fired

1. Feel the Pain

The first step is to recognize that you have experienced a loss and to address the associated feelings. It’s okay to feel upset. Getting fired from a job is not unlike other losses in life, such as divorce and the death of a loved one, especially if you’ve been with the same company for many years.

You’ll likely feel emotions like shock and anger, and you may go through a period of grieving. But, you shouldn’t broadcast any of these feelings to prospective employers.

2. Share Your Feelings

Rather than venting at an interview, share your feelings with friends, family, or a counselor. Talking about what’s going on can help you to move more quickly through the normal period of grieving over a lost job.

3. Figure Out What Happened

Although it’s important to move on, it’s also necessary to learn from the experience. Reflect upon the reasons for your firing and identify any personal weaknesses or deficits in knowledge and skills that contributed to your termination.

4. Is This the Right Job For You?

Assess whether your traditional job and career focus is the right fit for you. Create a profile of the ideal skills, knowledge, and other assets possessed by professionals in your field. How well do you measure up?

5. Check Out Other Options

If you conclude that you’re in the wrong field, begin to explore other options. Consult a career counselor if you need assistance, read about careers, or reach out to alumni and other contacts in fields of potential interest about informational interviews. Get advice about what it takes to be successful and what you will need to do to transition into a new role.

6. Upgrade Your Skills

Consider pursuing opportunities that will introduce you to the new field. Take classes or complete workshops to acquire knowledge and skills. Explore volunteer work, internships, or freelance work to get experience and figure out which career best suits you. These are also good things to emphasize in networks or interviews.

7. Separate Your Skills From Your Last Job

Prepare a clear statement differentiating your new career from your previous role. For example, suppose that you failed as a salesperson because you had difficulty prospecting for new clients.

If you are transitioning to a role in public relations, then you might say, “I was let go from my last job because I didn’t close enough new accounts. I excelled at organizing sales conferences and writing sales communications. Upon reflection, I have decided that public relations would be a better fit since it would tap my strong writing and event planning skills.”

8. Be Prepared To Explain Why You Were Fired

If you decide to remain in your current field, then you should thoughtfully prepare an explanation for your firing. You will need to convince employers that things will be different if they hire you in a similar capacity. Here’s how to answer interview questions about why you were fired.

9. Share Your Accomplishments

If you have taken steps to address any weaknesses that contributed to your firing, then you can share what you have done. For example, may have completed workshops or taken a public speaking course to improve your presentation skills. If possible, provide some backup for your explanation, whether it’s portfolio pieces, testimonials from teachers, mentors, or supervisors, or examples of your work.

10. When It Wasn’t Your Fault

In some cases, your termination might be rooted in something beyond your control. Perhaps, you worked for a company with a severely flawed product that you were unwilling or unable to promote, or a boss whose management approach wasn’t a good fit for your work style. You should carefully prepare and rehearse a statement that objectively characterizes the situation without being negative about your former employer or supervisor. Include a reference to how you have exceeded in previous roles where the condition didn’t exist.

Example: “I have always been a closer, as you can see from my record with IBM and Altera. I was unable to achieve that level of success at my recent employer. I had difficulty convincing clients to adopt solutions that I knew were not going to work well for them. I have done my due diligence about your company and believe that you provide cutting-edge products that I would be proud to promote.”

11. Don’t Badmouth Your Boss

Remember, you should be especially careful about criticizing former supervisors since you might be viewed as an employee with an attitude problem. Frame any characterizations in a matter of fact manner, without any vitriol.

Example: “I excelled in previous situations where managers held me accountable but gave me a wide berth in terms of how I reached my goals. My recent manager was more comfortable prescribing the specific approach to my cases, and we often disagreed about how to proceed. My research indicates that your management approach is consistent with past situations where I have flourished.”

11. Get Some References

Have recommendations on hand to counter the perceptions of a supervisor who dismissed you, or to prove that you were successful in other situations. Think comprehensively about individuals who can vouch for your skills and character, including co-workers, other manager, customers, suppliers, and other business partners. Here’s how to get professional references for employment.

12. Make a Portfolio

Prepare and present a portfolio of work samples that demonstrates high-quality work. Provide a link to your portfolio and recommendations on your resume to increase the likelihood that recruiters will view this information.

13. Up Your Networking Efforts

Rely on networking as your primary job search strategy. Candidates who are unemployed have a better chance of passing initial screens if they have internal advocates at target organizations testifying on their behalf.

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/yhgx13B

Read More

9 Ways to Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is a critical resource for professionals and job seekers. Yet, many people neglect their profiles or treat LinkedIn as an afterthought. While the platform ranks high in consumer trust, it consistently ranks low in engagement behind Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and other social media platforms, according to Business Insider Intelligence.

“Most job seekers will be able to use LinkedIn as a fast resource to build a personal brand and get hired,” said Lucy Samuels, a communication coach and career brand strategist. “I recommend using it at least 10 minutes a day.”

Samuels told Career Tool Belt that while LinkedIn isn’t the only important platform, job-seekers ought to take it seriously and utilize its many features in order to land a job. 

Top Tips for Optimizing LinkedIn

Samuels is unaffiliated with LinkedIn, but she has spent years coaching clients on best practices on the LinkedIn platform and beyond. Here are some of her top tips.

1. Your “headline” and “about” sections are extremely important.

When writing your LinkedIn profile, pay close attention to your “headline” and “about” sections. These sections are critical for searchability when a recruiter looks for employees via LinkedIn. 

The “headline” defaults to your job title, but Samuels recommended beefing it up. She pointed to her own LinkedIn, which lists her headline as a “communication confidence coach, certified resume writer, learning  and development facilitator.” It even includes the note “Helping you tell your professional stories + get hired.”

“You have 220 characters there,” Samuels said. “If your title is vague like ‘account executive,’ remember that other companies may be calling it something different. Things like ‘associate,’ ‘analyst’ – that’s your corporate title. It’s not functional. That headline might be bypassed.”

The “about” section is often neglected as well, said Samuels, but it allows for 2,600 characters and is a great place to include your personal messaging.

“You have them there at the top of your page. Give them a reason to keep going,” said Samuels. “Use a call to action, like ‘I’d love to connect!’ ‘Check out some of the projects I’ve built.’ ‘I’d love to connect if you’re looking to maximize your social media efforts.’ Tell people exactly what they should be doing next.” 

2. Optimize your URL for sharing.

Did you know that you can change your LinkedIn URL? Many people still use their default URL, which is often a jumble of numbers. By optimizing your URL, you can use your LinkedIn much like a Twitter handle or a portfolio website that you put on your business card. Samuels recommends sharing your LinkedIn profile often.

“Have your LinkedIn profile link at the ready whenever you’re networking,” Samuels said. “Customize your URL so that it’s easy to remember.”

LinkedIn provides a tutorial on changing your URL here.

3. Use a professional photo and change the background.

Use a professional headshot if you have one, Samuels recommended. If not, try to get a good photo of yourself from your chest up. 

“Employers should be able to recognize you. If they see you at a conference, they need to see your face later on LinkedIn,” said Samuels. “Use something professional and on-brand. It may not mean a three piece suit for everyone. It just has to reflect you.” 

Samuels also recommended changing the background, which, if not changed, is a generic graphic with dots and lines. 

“Create graphics that are on-brand for you, or select free stock photos,” Samuels said. “A data analyst might want sheets or data-oriented graphic. Some people are very well-rooted in their geographical location and will include a city skyline.” 

4. Tell stories.

When outlining your work experience, Samuels recommended telling stories about your career successes.

“Don’t just say ‘I’m good at managing projects.’ Tell us about a challenge that you had. It doesn’t have to be a problem, it just needs to be something that had to be handled,” said Samuels. “Talk about the problem you solved, the action you took to solve it and what happened.”

Samuels also recommended quantifying your successes wherever possible to add legitimacy to your claims.

“Clients want numbers. Don’t just say you managed people, say how many people. Don’t say you cut the budget. By what percentage?” said Samuels.

5. Don’t be afraid of strangers.

Samuels recommended hitting up strangers through LinkedIn’s messaging service. When you request a connection, LinkedIn also gives you a 300-character introduction space, which job-seekers should maximize.

“It is perfectly acceptable to talk to strangers, but not acceptable to send someone a connection request with no introduction,” said Samuels. “Find some sort of a link between you. Maybe it’s ‘I went to NYU and studied public affairs too, and I love how you were able to use your degree.’ It’s not always ‘connect so you can hire me.’ That’s not usually the first step. Usually you have a conversation with someone, and often they don’t have hiring power.” 

Samuels recommended following not only people, but also companies that interest you. 

6. Update often, but use caution.

Make sure that your profile information is up-to-date. However, Samuels recommended exercising some caution. For example, you may want to wait before updating your profile after getting a new job, just in case it doesn’t work out.

“There’s no hard rule here. It’s a personal preference,” said Samuels. “You can decide whether you want to update right away, or say ‘after two weeks I’m good,’ or ‘I have to be on the job for a month before I advertise it on LinkedIn.”  

Also, you may want to head to your LinkedIn Privacy settings and manage who sees your updates. You don’t want to inundate your connections with every update, like your profile pictures and work anniversaries.

7. Yes, endorsements and recommendations matter.

Endorsements on LinkedIn are ways for members to co-sign for one another. You can list 50 skills on your profile, and other members will “endorse” those skills. It’s more than just a little validation – the more endorsements you have, the higher you rank in a recruiter’s search. Recommendations, which are full-on testimonials, are worth even more in the LinkedIn search universe. 

If you’re looking to beef up your recommendations and endorsements, Samuels recommended giving them to others.

8. Understand every feature.

Many features on LinkedIn are overlooked, even though they can be valuable networking tools, according to Samuels. Here are some functions you may not know about. 

Job alerts: You can set up job alerts on LinkedIn. Simply input what you’re looking for and your notification preferences, and LinkedIn will do a lot of job-seeking groundwork for you. You can also note in your profile that you’re looking for a job, and the classification will only be seen by job recruiters.

Hashtag follow: You can follow hashtags almost like you follow people on LinkedIn. This will enable you to keep track of trends and opportunities that aren’t necessarily in your network.

News feed: Just like Facebook, LinkedIn has a news feed. Samuels recommended reading your feed, liking, sharing and commenting as a means of networking. “When you engage, people say ‘oh, who is that person?’ They see your name, photo and headline.”

Featured: Featured is a new category in every LinkedIn profile where individuals can display particular work that they[re proud of, such as an article or web project. It’s somewhat like a portfolio function, in addition to LinkedIn’s signature job experience listing.

Video: If video is part of your brand strategy, you can upload native videos to LinkedIn. The videos auto-play in peoples’ feeds, making it easy to grab peoples’ attention.

9. Make sure your voice is genuine.

Samuels strongly recommended editing your profile thoroughly, not only for typos and poor grammar (which is a given), but also for authenticity.

“Proofread your LinkedIn profile yourself and read it aloud,” Samuels said. “Make sure it sounds like you. Your ‘about’ section should have a more conversational tone. Then have someone else read it and tell you what they think. Sometimes we can’t proofread our own work.”

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/asnS6PB

Read More

How To Ace a Job Interview

You have just landed an interview for what seems like a perfect job. The next step is to take the time to get ready to ace the interview. A successful interview will be essential for you to lock in a job offer, and this is your chance to impress the interviewer enough to get hired, or to at least get a second interview.

Tips for Acing a Job Interview

Taking the time to prepare will make the interview process, which can be lengthy, run smoothly. You will be able to make the best possible impression at every job interview you go on. Once you’ve got a system in place, each time you interview it will become a little easier.

Here’s advice on how to ace a job interview, including tips on every aspect of the interview from preparation through follow-up.

Conduct Company Research

Company research should always be your first step after accepting an interview. Gathering background information on employers is crucial to successful interview preparation.

Tip: You might want to check out the company before you even apply to be sure you want to work there.

An employer will expect you to know something about the company, and will want you to be able to discuss how you will fit in well with the organization. You need to be prepared to answer the questions, “What do you know about our company”? and “Why do you want to work here?”

Knowing as much as possible about the company’s past performance and future plans can also help you better explain how you can add value to the company.

Before the interview, review the company’s website, particularly their “About Us” page/section. Also check out its LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other social pages to see what information the company is sharing. Also review online reviews, salaries, and interviewing information.

Use Your Connections

If you know a person who works at the organization or someone who can put you in touch with a current or former employee, you’ll be able to gather information that can give you an advantage over the other applicants.

Check LinkedIn to see if you have contacts at the company you can use to get insider information. If your college has an alumni network, tap that too. Ask your connections about the interview process they went through when they were hired, ask what they like—and don’t like—about working for the organization. Learn as much as you possibly can about the company and the job for which you’re applying. It will help you know what to ask, as well as give you insight into the role.

Practice Interviewing

Practice makes perfect—or at least will make you feel more comfortable during “real” interviews. Conduct practice interviews with a friend or family member, and ask for their feedback. You can also record or video your responses so you can review your answers and check your body language.

Prepare answers to commonly asked interview questions. Doing so will help you analyze your background and qualifications for the position. You don’t need to memorize your responses, but having an idea of what you’re going to say will help you frame a solid response and help you avoid getting stressed when you’re not sure what to say.

Be ready to respond when you’re asked if you have any questions for the interviewer. Prepare a list of questions you want to ask the interviewer. Remember, you aren’t simply trying to get the job — you are also interviewing the employer to assess whether this company and the position are a good fit for you.

Tip: The more you practice, the more self-assured you will feel walking into the interview. Your answers will feel natural, and interviewers will be impressed by your confidence. These free interview practice tools will help you ace the interview.

Learn Behavioral Interviewing Techniques

In addition to standard interview techniques, behavior-based interviewing is becoming more common. It is based on the idea that a candidate’s past performance is the best predictor of future performance. Behavioral interviews involve you answering questions about how you’ve handled past situations at work.

The best way to prepare is to make a list of your skills, values, and interests as well as your strengths and weaknesses. For each item on the list, consider a time when you displayed that quality. Take the time to compile a list of responses to common behavioral interview questions.

When answering, describe the past situation and how you successfully handled it. Make sure your answers are related to the job for which you are interviewing.

Prepare for Different Types of Interviews

It is important to know what type of interview you will have, so you can effectively prepare. For example, you will prepare differently depending on whether it is your first, second, or final interview.

Phone and Video Interviews

You will also have to practice using different technologies if it is a phone or video interview. For both, you’ll need a quiet place to interview, a time when you won’t be interrupted, and the technology necessary to smoothly handle the meeting. Take the time to make sure everything is in working order, and do a trial run so you’re ready when it’s time for the actual interview.

Out of the Office Interviews

For a lunch or dinner interview, you will want to review polite dining tips before you go. Plan to get to the restaurant a few minutes early (including time for transport delays), and expect the hiring manager to pick up the check. Check online to get a sense of appropriate attire. You may also be able to review the menu to get ideas on what to order.

Interviewing over a cup of coffee is much less formal, even though it can be a stepping stone to a formal in-office interview. A casual interview is an excellent way to learn more about a potential employer and the people who work at the company. You’ll have more flexibility and opportunities to discuss the role in an informal setting.

Group Interviews

You might also have a group interview, in which you are either interviewed by a panel, or interviewed along with a group of candidates. For this kind of interview, you want to practice both answering questions and being a good listener (which you can show by responding thoughtfully to your group members’ comments and through your body language).

Make sure you know what kind of interview you will be having before you arrive. If you are unsure, make sure to ask the employer or recruiter who set up the meeting.

Dress for Interview Success

You will want to decide what to wear before the interview day. Your first impression is very important, and what you wear forms a big part of that. Therefore, you want to make sure you look professional and appropriate to the work environment.

In general, for formal business interviews, men tend to wear a dark suit and tie, and women often wear a dark suit or a blouse with dark pants or a skirt. You should also limit accessories, make sure you are well groomed, your clothing fits you well, and your shoes are shined.

You will be able to dress more casually for a job at a startup, or a job at a place with a casual work environment. What’s important is to wear what’s a good fit for the corporate environment, but even when you’re interviewing at a workplace where nobody has heard the phrase “dress code,” you don’t want to look like a slob. Neat and tidy business casual is a good option when you know that a suit isn’t going to be appropriate interview attire.

If you are unsure about what to wear, email or call the person who scheduled the interview and ask about the typical dress code. It is always a good idea to dress just a little bit more formally than the dress code requires. Your goal is to make the best impression possible.

Tip: If your interview is online, avoid very bright colors, stripes, and busy patterns, and make sure your interview outfit doesn’t blend in with your background.

Check Your Technology

When you’re having a video or phone interview, be sure to check that all your technology is in working order. If interviewing on Zoom, after checking for software updates you can join a test meeting to test your internet connection, audio, and video. You’ll also be able to see how you and your background appear on screen.

How To Handle the Day of the Interview

It is very important not to be late for the interview. “On time” means ten to 15 minutes early for an in-person interview and a few minutes early for a video interview. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead of time or check out other options for getting there so you know exactly where you are going, how long it will take to get there, and what the transportation and parking situation looks like.

If you’re running late you’ll be stressed, and that’s no way to start an interview for what could be your new job.

Know Proper Interview Etiquette

Remember that it’s not only the hiring manager who makes the decision on who to hire. Be polite and gracious to everyone you meet, from the time you walk in the door to when you leave. The people you meet could be your future co-workers, so make the best impression on them that you can.

When you arrive, introduce yourself to the receptionist. Make sure you know the interviewer’s name and use it as soon as possible during the interview. If you’re not sure of their name, email or call and ask prior to the interview.

What (and What Not) to Bring

Remember to bring an extra copy of your resume, a list of references, and any work samples you want to show the employer. Bring your list of questions to ask the interviewer. It’s a good idea to bring a notepad and pen to take notes.

Tip: It’s also important to know what not to bring. Do not bring coffee, gum, or anything else not related to the job. Turn your phone off and put it away before you walk into the office.

Try to Stay Calm and Avoid Stress

If you’re nervous, visit the restroom before your interview, and wash and dry your hands so they aren’t sweaty. Try reframing feelings of anxiety as excitement. Take some deep breaths, and remember that this is only one interview and you’ve prepared as well as you can for it. If the interview goes wrong, it’s not the end of the world, and you may even be able to fix it.

During the interview, try to remain as calm and present in the moment as possible. Ask for clarification if you’re not sure what’s been asked and remember that it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to frame your responses so you can be sure to answer the question fully.

Also, remember that thorough preparation helps build confidence and relieve stress. The more you research the company, practice answering interview questions, and prepare for the day of the interview, the calmer and more confident you will feel and appear.

Take the Time to Follow Up

Even though you’ve finished the interview, you’re not quite done yet. End the interview with a thank-you to the interviewer, and reiterate your interest in the position. Then follow up with a personal thank-you note or email message restating your interest. This is an opportunity to remind the employer of your qualifications, and to include any details you forgot to mention in the interview.

How to Tell If the Interview Went Well

Sometimes you can tell right away that an interview isn’t working out. You may know as soon as the interviewer starts telling you about the job that you don’t want it. The chemistry between you and the hiring manager may not feel quite right. Or you can tell you’re not a good fit for the job or organization after all.

During other interviews, it may not be as clear. Here are some signs that your job interview went well. If it didn’t, consider it a learning experience, and more practice. With every interview you have, you’ll be better prepared to ace the next one—and get the job. Good luck!

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/OYAM7hy

Read More

What To Do Before You Start a Job Search

Sometimes, we change jobs because we want to. In other cases, we lose our job and don’t have a choice. I actually made my best career moves when I was pushed, by company restructuring one time and company bankruptcy another, into job searching. In both cases, it was a positive change that might not have happened otherwise. 

In either case, it’s important to take the time to prepare for a job search, so all the resources you need are in place before you start seeking employment. 

What To Do Before You Start a Job Search

 It’s important to have a good idea of the type of job you are interested in, to have a resume written, to have references ready, and to have the proper equipment (phone, computer, etc.) in place before you start looking for work.

It can be stressful and a waste of time, for both yourself and a prospective employer, to realize that you really didn’t want the job you just were offered. Or even worse, to realize that you don’t want the job after you already started it. 

Someone who once worked at the same company I did started a new job and knew the very first day that she didn’t want to be there. She called and asked whether she could have her old job back. It was too late. We had already hired a replacement, and she was stuck working at a job she didn’t want while she job searched, again. 

How Often People Change Jobs

Most people change jobs many times throughout their working life. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the younger baby boomers surveyed changed jobs 12 times from age 18 to age 52. Half of those job changes were between ages 18 and 25.

That’s a lot of jobs, and this statistic is good to know, especially if you’re a job changer. Unlike the past, when it was normal to work for the same employer until you retired, it’s much more common today to change jobs.

There isn’t the same expectation on the part of employers that you should stay or that the company should provide long-term employment for you. It’s not your parents’ workplace anymore, where most people worked for thirty years, then retired. There isn’t an obligation on either side. Employers don’t feel like they need to protect their employees, and workers have few qualms about quitting. 

Consider the Best Job for You

In some industries, especially high-tech ones, you are expected to change jobs if you want your career to progress. It’s the norm, not the exception. At some companies, especially smaller ones, there may not be enough options to move up the career ladder. In other cases, you may get tired or bored and want to try something different. All of the above are good reasons for changing your job.

We all change as we age. The job that was perfect when you were in school may not be what you want now. There are some people who are thrilled to have a high-pressure job; even it means working sixty hours a week. They thrive on it. Others would prefer to work less and earn less.

What we want from our job changes over time as well. Health insurance and other benefits become more important as we age. Flexibility is important to those job seekers who have a family or are planning on one. So, what we want from our work changes as we change. 

It’s important to be aware of that and consider what we actually want from employment. It’s also worth taking the time to assess, every few years or so, what it is that we want from our work. There isn’t much worse than getting ready to retire and realizing that you really hated the job you worked at for all those years. 

The jobs that are available change on a regular basis. Technology changes, industries change, and companies change. The job market changes regularly, too. The type of jobs that are considered “hot” today may be at the bottom of the list of jobs employers are hiring for next time you job search. 

Investigate Career Options

That’s why each and every time you start a job search, you should spend time investigating career options and the type of jobs you might want to do. Take a personality test (or two) to see what job options might be a fit. You may be surprised at what jobs are available, and you may generate some ideas for jobs that you had never thought of. 

What’s most important is to find the job that’s right for you. I have a friend from college who took the first job he could find after graduation. He started as a temporary mail carrier, then took the post office exam and became a mailman. After a few years, he regretted that decision. By then, he had a wife and a family and not much experience doing anything else. 

Unfortunately, at that point, it was very hard to make a change that would provide a comparable salary and benefits, both of which he needed. Perhaps he would have been better served to spend some more time on a job search. That way, he could have been sure that the first job he accepted was the right job. 

Find Career Advising Resources 

Maybe you’d like help deciding what you could or should be doing. Luckily, there are free and low-cost services that can help. 

College Career Offices

 If you’re a college graduate, check with your career services office or alumni office. Many colleges and universities offer job search assistance, resume and cover letter reviews, and access to job listings, regardless of when you graduated. 

How to Get Help: Contact Your Career Services Office

Career Counselors and Coaches

Career counselors offer personalized assistance, and the fees may be more reasonable than you anticipated. Counselors can help you explore both work and life issues. A career counselor can also help you plan and conduct a job search. I know this sounds time-consuming, but we spend a good amount of our lives working. 

If you can find a job that you enjoy that provides you with the salary and benefits you need to live comfortably, and that provides you with the opportunity to grow your career in the direction you want to move, you will have succeeded in your job search. 

How Get Help: How to Find and Choose a Career Counselor

Libraries

Public libraries often have classes and workshops. They also have computers, internet access, and research materials available to use free of charge.

How to Get Help: Directory of U.S. Public Libraries

American Job Centers (AJCs)

AJCs have experienced career counselors on staff that work with job seekers to identify their interests, assess their skill, and advise them on in-demand jobs and potential training opportunities.  Resume help, recruiting events, workshops on resume writing, interviewing skills, and job search activities are also available. 

How to Get Help: Locate an AJC

The Importance Finding the Right Job

You have probably read the quote from Confucius about work: “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” If you think about it, it makes good sense. If you are working at a job you enjoy, it doesn’t feel like work. 

If you can have fun at your job, it doesn’t feel like work. If you enjoy your job, your working environment, and your coworkers, you won’t feel as much like you are working, either. 

 

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/8vU6bNl

Read More

Resume Basics: Writing and Formatting Your Resume

Your resume is the most important document you will use in your job search. It’s what makes the first impression on a prospective employer, and it will either get you an interview or get you a rejection letter, if you even get a response.

The resume you send has only seconds to make an impression on the person reading it. You will want that impression to be not just a good one, but a great one. Your resume needs to be the one that makes the best impression on the person who might be hiring you for your next job, so spending time and effort to boost your resume will definitely pay off. 

The Purpose of a Resume

We create resumes in order to showcase to prospective employers what we have accomplished in our lives as it relates to work and careers. 

Your resume is the way you will highlight your professional accomplishments, your educational achievements, and the skills that are relevant and specific to the type of job for which you are applying. 

Types of Resumes

 There are several types of resumes:

• A chronological resume is the most familiar type, and the one used most often. It lists your work history in reverse chronological order, with your most recent job listed first. 
• A functional resume highlights your skills and experience rather than the jobs you have held. 
• A combination resume highlights your skills (usually with a section at the top of the page), followed by your chronological employment history. 

Which Type of Resume to Choose

If you have a strong work history, use a chronological resume with a statement at the top that highlights your skills.

It’s best to use a functional or combination resume when there are gaps in your employment history. For example, if you have been out of the workforce for a while or are changing careers. That way, you can focus on your skills rather than the gaps or glitches in your work record. 

Write a Targeted Resume

In the past, job seekers created one version of their resume, and that was it. You sent the same version of your resume in response to each and every help-wanted ad that you find. Now it’s necessary to have at least several versions of your resume. 

You will send out a different version depending on the job. The job applicants who are getting the most interviews are the ones who take the time to review the job posting and write a targeted resume for each and every job they apply for.

Writing a targeted sample resume isn’t hard. Start by reviewing the job posting. Then write a customized objective that matches the job posting. 

Here’s an example: 

• Job Posting: This position provides technology leadership and direction for the company’s software systems. This includes technology evaluation, new product architecture and delivery, and management of software engineers and developers, as well as interfacing with sales and corporate administration.
• Career Objective: To apply my unique combination of technical expertise, managerial experience, business acumen, and sales support to direct the delivery and acceptance of mission-critical software systems. 

Also consider including a section called Career Qualifications or Highlights on your resume. This optional section can include a bulleted list of the experience, skills, and key accomplishments from your employment history. 

Using the technology position as an example, here are career highlights that relate specifically to the job posting. 

Qualifications: 

• Directed development teams and implemented software delivery, achieving 100% on-time delivery of three enterprise software products. 
• Managed all product delivery activities for software services provider, ensuring all products were delivered in advance of scheduled release. 
• Managed developers, database administrators, and product architects responsible for product design and development in order to streamline all software development activities. 

The recruiter will appreciate the fact that you have taken the time to understand what the company is looking for, and that you have taken the time to identify how you are the candidate with the qualifications for the position. Not only have you saved the recruiter some time reading through your resume, but you have also promoted your candidacy by highlighting your specific relevant qualifications. 

Formatting Your Resume

Keep your resume formatting simple. First, take some time to think about how you are going to construct your resume—not what it says, but how it looks. 

Visualize how your resume looks on paper, even though it may only be read on a computer screen, and the bigger picture of how it’s formatted and laid out rather than the specific words you are including. Leave plenty of white space on your resume because you don’t want it to look crowded or cluttered. 

Tip: Keep your resume to one page if possible, but don’t worry if it is longer because you have lots of experience. 

Keep it Concise and Simple

Don’t write too much. Short sentences and paragraphs work much better than longer ones. Write clearly and simply. Your resume should be written simply and should be easy to read:

• When choosing fonts, keep the number of fonts you use to a minimum. Choose a font like Arial, Verdana, or Times New Roman that’s easy to read. 
• Tiny fonts cause eyestrain, so make sure the font is large enough to read (10- or 12-point). 
• Use bolding and bullets to highlight your job titles and responsibilities. 

Tip: Don’t overuse formatting. A resume with too much of a good thing, like too much capitalization or italicization, is hard to read.

After you write your resume, look at it again to see if it looks appealing. Make sure that your fonts and point size are consistent throughout the document. If you use several fonts and sizes, be sure that each section is formatted the way you want it to be. 

Creating Your Resume 

The creation of a resume involves several steps. Your goal should be to create a clean, simple resume that is easy to read and clearly explains what your objectives are, what your background is, and what skills you have. 

Start With a Resume Checklist

Compile the information to include in your resume. Regardless of the type of resume you choose, you will need to gather the information to include before you start writing. Use this resume checklist to compile the information you will need to have ready. 

You will need to make a list of all your employment information, your school and college information, and the relevant skills you have. 

Here’s the information to include on your resume checklist:

[ ] Contact information 

[ ] Summary and objective 

[ ] Work history 

[ ] Education and training 

[ ] Skills 

[ ] Additional information 

How much work history to include depends on how many years you have been working. If you have been in the workforce for years, you don’t need to include all the experience that you have—the last ten to fifteen years of experience is sufficient. If you’re an older worker, also consider leaving off the dates when you went to college.

Stick to the Facts

It’s important to tell the truth and not to exaggerate your qualifications when you write your resume. Here are a couple of reasons why. First of all, many employers check. They check your references, they check your transcripts, and they verify employment with prior employers. If you haven’t told the truth and the company finds out, you can be fired later on.

Use a Resume Template

Using a resume template is an ideal way to make sure that you include everything you need on your resume. Here’s an overview of a resume template, with optional sections for an objective and career highlights. 

Contact Section

The first section in your resume should include information on how prospective employers can contact you: 

[ ] Name 

[ ] Home address (optional) 

[ ] City, state, and zip code (optional)

[ ] Cell phone 

[ ] Email address 

Career Objective

The next section of your resume is the objective. In the past, an objective including a description of what type of employment you were seeking. Today’s resume objective shows what you have to offer the employer. This is optional, but taking the time to write a customized objective that matches the job you are applying for will definitely help you stand out from the other candidates. This section should contain a sentence or two describing your goals for employment. 

Career Highlights

If you are seeking a professional position, include a section called Career Highlights or Qualifications. This section is also customized to the job you are seeking. List your relevant achievements and skills. This can either be a paragraph or a bulleted list of your skills as they match the job description.

Experience

The Experience section of your resume is a list of your work history. It should include the companies you worked for, dates of employment, and jobs you held, along with a list of responsibilities and achievements.

 The following is an example of the Experience section: 

• Company 
• City and state 
• Dates of employment 
• Job title 
• Responsibilities and achievements 

Education

The Education section of your resume should include a list of the colleges you attended, your degrees, and honors or awards you received: 

Tip: If you’re a college graduate or have been in the workforce for a while, you don’t need to include high school information. If you’re a student seeking a part-time job or an internship and you’re still in school or have just graduated, it’s fine to include high school on your resume. 

Skills

The Skills section of your resume comes next. It should include information on the skills you have that are specific to the type of job you are applying for (i.e., Microsoft Office, HTML, or foreign languages). 

For example, if you’re applying for a job as a social worker, where being bilingual is an asset, include the foreign language skills you have and your level of fluency. On the other hand, if you have advanced programming skills and you are applying for a job as an editorial assistant, there is no reason to list them. In fact, you may appear to be overqualified for the position if you list high-level skills that aren’t related to the job. 

Additional Information

The last section of your resume is the Additional Information section. Use it to list professional memberships, publications, volunteering, and other related activities. Do make sure that what you include is relevant. For example, if you have taken piano lessons for years and teach piano as a side job, but you aren’t applying for a job in the music field or as an educator, there is no need to list your ability to play the piano on your resume. 

The rule of thumb to remember is if it’s related to the position you are applying for, include it on your resume. Consider whether the skill adds value to your credentials, and if not, leave it off your resume. 

Tip: Use one of these free resume templates to get started writing your own resume.

Don’t List References on Your Resume

There is no need to include references on your resume. Instead, have your references on a separate list, ready to give to an employer on request. 

Carefully Proofread Your Resume

Use the following checklist to make sure you have checked and double-checked everything on your resume: 

[ ] Use an online dictionary as you write. 

[ ] Your current position should be described in the present tense (manage staff). 

[ ] Previous positions should be described in past tense (managed staff). 

[ ] Use a period at the end of each full sentence. 

[ ] Make sure your punctuation is consistent. 

[ ] Double-check all the dates of employment. 

[ ] Double-check your contact information. 

[ ] Spell check your finished resume. 

[ ] Ask a family member or friend to proofread your resume. 

What Not to Include on a Resume

Some things should not be included on your resume in the United States. In fact, it is illegal for employers to ask for some personal and confidential information. The information you do not need to include on your resume is: 

• Age 
• Gender 
• Marital status 
• Number of children 
• Salary history 
• References 

Keep Your Resume Current

It can be time-consuming to edit and rewrite your resume for every job you apply for, but in the long run, it’s well worth the effort you put into it. Here are tips for keeping your resume updated, so it’s easy to apply for a job when you find one that’s a perfect fit.

Resume Example

Amy Weber

City, State | (000) 123-4567 | aw@email.com | LinkedIn URL

 

---

Summary of Qualifications

Experienced Office Manager well-versed in handling all A/P, A/R, payroll, and bookkeeping functions for multi-physician medical offices. Proven leadership and effectiveness training and supervising administrative staff in optimal performance of office and reception activities.

Core competencies include:

• Medicaid / Medicare Billing Processes
• Vendor Relations
• upply Purchasing
• Employee Timekeeping
• Office Accounting

Experience

LAKESIDE PRACTIONERS, City, State
Office Manager, 6/2018 to Present

Promoted to direct medical billing, A/P and A/R, timekeeping, and accounting functions for 12-physician medical practice. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with insurance providers; ensure on-time execution of all financial reporting. Mentor and supervise 3 direct reports. Key contributions:

• Implemented new business office system solution that improved accuracy of billing and accounting processes.
• Restored positive cashflow by eliminating backlog in adjustments to accounts receivables inherited from predecessor.
• Recognized with multiple “Employee of the Month” awards for increasing staff morale and overall office efficiency.

LAKESIDE PRACTIONERS, City, State
Medical Receptionist, 8/2015 to 6/2018

Greeted and provided excellent customer service to patients of busy medical office. Answered phones and scheduled patient appointments; distributed mail and managed digital and hard copy medical records. Key contributions:

• Earned promotion to Office Manager role after completing Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) certification training.

---

Education and Training

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE (City, State) | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Professional Certification: Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM), Practice Management Institute

---

Computer Skills

Platforms: Windows, Android OS

Applications: Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Access, PowerPoint), QuickBooks, Google Docs

Get Started Writing Your Resume

Ready to Get Started? 6 Free Resume Builder Sites 

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/6PuEvkx

Read More

5 Back-to-Basics Job Search Tips

Looking for a job right now? If so, you’re probably getting plenty of advice. From old friends and colleagues to experts on social media, there are plenty of folks out there who want to guide your search.

The problem is that even well-intentioned insights can be less than helpful if they don’t apply to your situation or goals. Further, you only have so much time to devote to a job search—without cloning yourself, you can’t possibly do everything everyone says you “should” be doing to get hired.

How to Fast Track Your Job Search

If this is your situation right now, take heart and tune out the noise. Going back to basics will help you get your job search back on track.

1. Assess Your Needs and Plan a Strategy

Are you looking for your dream job—or are you just trying to keep the lights on? Both things can be true, by the way, but before you start searching in earnest, it’s important to have a firm grasp of your short- and long-term goals.

To do that, you need to assess your needs. If you’re like many Americans, you don’t have much in the way of an emergency fund. So, if you’re job searching while unemployed, your top priority might be to find a way to make money, fast. Consider part-time jobs, freelance work, or temp jobs to pay the bills while you conduct your search.

Once you’ve determined your goals and filled those short-term needs, you can settle in for the long haul—and it’s important to accept that it might be a long haul. Surveys show that it can take several months to find a job. It’s not just you: this really is a long, tricky, time-consuming process. Plan to do a little each day, whether it’s pruning your resume, looking for job listings, or keeping in touch with networking contacts.

And don’t forget to take care of yourself in the process. Job searching can be stressful, and it’s essential to incorporate self-care in your process.

2. Build a Resume You Can Tweak for Any Job

When was the last time you updated your resume? If it’s been over a year—or you’re actively job searching—it’s time for an edit. Make sure your resume is highlighting your most relevant experience and cut anything that’s outdated, including old jobs that no longer relate to your current career goals and lines like “references upon request.”

Starting from scratch? Use one of the many free resume templates available online to create a basic document, which you can then customize for each opportunity. And do customize it—a targeted resume is essential for a successful job search. Remember that hiring managers want to interview candidates who are interested in that specific job, not just any job.

3. Match Your Qualifications to the Job Description

Get out of the habit of skimming job postings. Instead, dig into the details provided to learn which of your qualifications will be most impressive to the hiring team. Look for keywords related to the skills, abilities, and experience required and then match your qualifications to the job in your resume, cover letter, and interviews.

4. Create a Targeted Cover Letter

In an era when job seekers in many industries have multiple social media profiles, online resumes, and portfolios, it might seem strange to labor over a cover letter. Doesn’t a cover letter just restate what your other documents, profiles, and sites already reveal?

Well, yes and no. It’s true that a hiring manager could probably figure out from your (well-organized, targeted) resume that you’re the perfect candidate for the job. But given that recruiters typically spend seconds reviewing a resume, there’s a good chance that they’d miss how awesome you are.

A targeted cover letter gives you a chance to tell that story yourself. Again, templates are your friend here, but you’ll need to customize your letter for each opportunity. Remember that even when job titles are similar, employers’ requirements will be different, even if subtly so.

5. Find Job Leads Quickly

When you’re looking for a job, time is of the essence. You simply don’t have hours to waste searching in the wrong places or talking to the wrong people. To maximize your job hunting time, look for job leads:

• On job search sites. Use the best job search sites, best job search engines, and niche sites to find job listings that are right for you. Search by keyword and location and sign up for email alerts based on your focus.

Tip: Use CareerOneStop’s one-stop job search resource to search for jobs on NLx, CareerBuilder, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter with a single click.

• Through social media. Social media can help you find job listings, build your professional network, and create a personal brand. It’s also an easy way to let your contacts know that you’re searching for work.
• Through friends and colleagues. Networking remains one of the best ways to find a job, with some experts estimating that as many as 85% of jobs are filled via referral. Best of all, networking can support other methods of finding job leads. For example, if you find a job listing that looks promising on LinkedIn, you might remember that you have a contact at the employer and ask them to put in the good word.
• At your college career services office. Many colleges offer free job search assistance to alumni for life. So even if you graduated long ago, it’s worth reaching out to your college career services office to see if they can hook you up with leads, resume help, interview coaching, and more.
• Via informational interviews. Via LinkedIn or your professional network, connect with hiring managers at employers where you’d love to work. Set up informational interviews to learn more about the company culture, potential job opportunities, and employee requirements. Note: These meetings typically do not lead directly to job openings, so don’t plan on targeting roles during your first conversations. However, they are a chance to build a relationship with folks on the inside and get an idea of how to present yourself as an ideal candidate.
• Through professional associations. Join industry groups and associations and gain a built-in support network of people in your field. Get advice from people who really understand your career and stay in the loop on emerging trends, opportunities, and resources.

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/YARJUN1

Read More