Warning Signs That You Could Lose Your Job

Are you worried about losing your job? It can happen to anyone, sometimes when you least expect it. Even during the best of times, companies make changes and employees get laid off. During challenging economic times, your work status can become even more precarious.

How can you tell if you’re about to lose your job? Sometimes, employers announce furloughs and cutbacks, and it can be very clear that your employment is in jeopardy. In other cases, it’s not so easy to tell if your position may be on the chopping block.

There are warning signs to look out for, and ways you can prepare if you think it could happen to you. Some are major changes that impact many employees. Others are more personal and related to your relationship with your manager and the company.

12 Signs Your Job Is at Risk

Here’s what to look out for if you’re concerned about losing your job.

Earnings Reports Are Dismal

One of the biggest red flags to watch is profits (and losses). If an organization is losing money, they are going to be looking at ways they can turn things around. That could mean cutting individual jobs or groups of employees.

Budgets Are Getting Cut

Even if a company is profitable, certain departments and teams may not be. If you know that your department’s budget is getting cut, be aware that jobs can be part of the budget-trimming process.

The Company Starts Changing Work Processes

Companies are always looking out to save money, and change is inevitable in today’s workplace. Those changes can have an impact on jobs, and a new way of doing something can cost employees who work as part of the old process in their positions. If your employer is discussing implementing new systems, think about how it might impact your role.

The Company Is Cutting Other Jobs

If jobs are being cut on other teams or employees are being furloughed, it may mean that more cost-cutting will happen down the line. Is your position one that could be eliminated? When you hear about job cuts, it’s worth considering your role and how future cuts could impact your position.

The Company Has Merged or Been Acquired

When mergers and acquisitions happen, there are often redundancies and job cuts. For example, companies don’t need two accounting departments or two shipping departments. If your company has merged or been bought by a larger company, be aware that there will most like be changes to the workforce.

You Don’t Get Along With Your Boss

Sometimes losing your job doesn’t have anything to do with money. If you and your manager are butting heads all the time and can’t seem to agree on anything, it’s a sign that this may not be the job for you. Do consider if there’s a way to work things out, but be aware that you may not be able to.

You’re Being Excluded From Meetings

Are there meetings that you aren’t being invited to? If you’re working remotely, does everyone else seem to be unexpectedly out of the loop sometimes? Could they be having Zoom meetings withoutyou? If you have the sense that something is going on that you’re not a part of, you might very well be right.

You’re Not Included in Emails

Email is the same scenario as meetings. Does it seem like your inbox is empty when you expect it to be full? Do you expect to be copied in on certain messages, but it appears that’s not happening? That’s a clue you’re not part of whatever is happening at the moment.

Your Hours Are Cut

If your hours are being cut, it’s a very clear sign that you may no longer be needed. That’s especially the case if it’s just your scheduled hours that are being changed. If everyone else is working the same schedule as always, consider it a warning.

You’re Getting Bad Reviews

Is your performance getting bad reviews? Even if you’re doing everything you’re supposed to be doing at work and then some, and you’re still getting negative reviews, it’s something to be concerned about. Consider talking to your manager about what you need to do to improve.

You Don’t Have Much Work to Do

Are you being assigned less work? Are there projects that you normally would have been a part of that other team members are working on instead? Do you have an empty desk with nothing much to do? If you’re not being assigned work, it can be a sign that you’re not needed. It’s an even bigger sign if someone else is doing work that traditionally would have been yours.

You’re Not Getting Promoted

If you’re getting passed over for promotions, it doesn’t mean your tenure with the company is coming to an end. It does mean that you should evaluate your relationship with your employer and decide if it’s worth staying or if it would be better to think about moving on.

What to Do if You’re Worried About Losing Your Job

One of the best things you can do when you’re concerned that your job is at stake is to prepare to find a new one. Even if it’s a temporarily challenging situation and it resolves itself, it’s always a good idea to be ready to look for a new role.

Don’t advertise the fact that you’re job searching, but do start discreetly to prepare to move on. That way, you’ll be prepared if you need to start looking for a new position in a hurry. Here’s how to get started:

• Update your resume. Be sure your resume is current and includes your latest (and most relevant) work history. Add new skills, certification, education, and professional development.
• Update LinkedIn. Make sure that your LinkedIn profile is as current as your resume, but before you start, change your privacy settings, so your connections (and your boss and co-workers) don’t know that you are making changes. You will be able to make discreet changes without advertising that you’re considering a job search. Click Account, Settings & Privacy, Share job changes, education changes, and work anniversaries from profile, and select “No”.
• Build your network. Start adding strategically to your network. Build up your network so you’re connecting with people who can help your job hunt if you hit the “go” button and are ready to move on.
• Start investigating jobs and companies. Spend some time looking at job listings for positions in your field of interest. In addition to seeing what’s available, you’ll get an idea of how robust the job market is for someone with your credentials. Search on Google and some of the top job sites to get a broad picture of what’s out there.
• Check your finances. Are you financially prepared to handle a layoff? Unemployment will supplement some of your pay, but not all. If you’re short on savings, what can you do (freelance, gigs, etc.) to get by until you get hired?
• Consider applying for jobs. If you’re worried about losing your job, you may want to preemptively start a job search. Even if your job isn’t at risk, the fact that you were concerned is a flag that this may not be the best job for you. Seeing what else is out there will give you an opportunity to move your career forward on your own terms.

If you do lose your job, don’t panic. Here are some things you can do get back on track and get hired.

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10 Effective 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. 

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. 

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.”

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. 

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!

Guest Author Andrew Fennell is the founder of CV writing advice website StandOut CV. He is a former recruitment consultant and contributes career advice to websites like Business Insider, The Guardian, and Fast Company.

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Why You Shouldn’t Lie During a Job Interview

Lying on your resume or during a job interview is a bad idea. 

If you’re caught, the consequences will far outweigh any potential benefits. At the very least, you’ll lose credibility, according to communication coach and career brand strategist Lucy Samuels. At worst, you lose the job, as well as any opportunity to be hired by that company for a long time.

“If you lie about something that really could have been explained, no one is going to pay any attention to anything else you brought to the table,” said Samuels. “You’re not credible anymore. Hiring managers don’t want to do the detective work to find out what else you’re lying about. There are too many people searching for jobs to waste time on that.”

Samuels spoke to Career Tool Belt about why lying to a hiring manager is a bad idea, and why it’s often not even necessary. Three anonymous sources also shared their stories of lying – or being lied to – during the job-seeking process.

Why You Shouldn’t (and Don’t Have to) Lie When You’re Job Searching

You never know if they’ll double-check. 

“One guy I interviewed said he worked at the Met Opera for about six months. I found out he’d been hired, but didn’t complete training. I confronted him about it, and he said something to the effect of ‘oh that’s not what I meant to put there.’ I asked him to elaborate and he said he couldn’t remember where he’d worked.” – anonymous manager.

If you lie about a previous job experience or title, you’re flying close to the sun. You never know if a hiring manager is going to call the job and check up on the details. Depending on your industry, all of your bosses might have each other on speed dial. 

“It’s difficult to keep people from talking to their colleagues in the same field,” said Samuels. “Your boss might know everyone.”

They’ll find out your skill level soon enough.

“I was a data entry supervisor for a long time. I would say the thing that people lie or don’t fully disclose is how bad they are at computers. Yes we were hiring for an entry-level position. We don’t expect people to come in and be able to make Excel spreadsheets. We’ll ask ‘what’s your computer experience like?’ They’ll say ‘I can operate a computer.’ Then they get on the floor and they don’t know where the power button is, or how to operate a mouse.’”- anonymous manager.

It is not advisable to lie about your skill sets, degrees or training. Sooner or later, a hiring manager will find out that you don’t have the requisite skills for the job. When that happens, you’ve not only jeopardized your job, but you’ve wasted company time.

“It’s possible that you’re someone who slipped through the cracks by saying you knew something that you didn’t,” said Samuels. “But when they find out, it will undermine your credibility as a candidate as an employee.” 

Explain or reframe.

Lying isn’t necessary. Sometimes, the truth will serve you just fine. You may just need to get creative or reframe things.

For example, if you’re lacking a skill set, you can frame it as a growth opportunity and a skill that you’re interested in learning.

“Guess what, sometimes job descriptions are more like a wish list,” said Samuels. “Remember, they called you up for an interview. Do the research ahead of time. If you’ve never heard of something, look it up. Let them know that you’re resourceful and a quick learner.”

If your hiring manager asks something difficult such as why you left a previous job, don’t lie. Instead, keep it brief. 

“You could say that something wasn’t a good fit. Do not spend too much time weaving a tale. Less is more. Focus less on the old job and focus on the new job,” said Samuels. 

You don’t have to disclose everything.

“I interviewed at [high-profile insurance company] about one year or so after I became a lawyer. I was a shoe-in. They loved me. They asked how much I made at my job and I lied. I inflated, because I wanted to get paid more. They looked into it. They found out I lied and told me that’s why they couldn’t hire me. It devastated me. I should have just told them I was not comfortable answering because it didn’t reflect how much I should have been getting paid.” – anonymous lawyer.

Your hiring manager is not entitled to know everything about you. There’s no need, for example, to mention your previous salary or your pregnancy status. You’re not obligated to answer any question that could lead to a discriminatory hiring decision. In fact, many states illegalize the interview question “what did you make at your previous job?” and it is against federal law for job interviewers to ask applicants about their pregnancy status, age, disability and more. 

When asked these kinds of questions, you can politely deflect.

“It’s no one’s business, but people don’t know that, so they feel the need to lie. They could just push back,” said Samuels. 

For example, if asked about your previous salary, Samuels suggested saying: “‘I would much rather focus on the current position.’ You could talk about your research. ‘I’ve researched this role, and this is the salary that’s appropriate.’” 

If a hiring manager is asking anything illegal, you can report the company to the U.S. Employment Equal Opportunity Commission.

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What to Do When You Lose Your Job

One of the worst things that can happen from a career perspective is to lose your job. That’s especially true when it’s unexpected and not your fault. On the flip side, one of the best things that can happen from a career perspective is to lose your job, even when it doesn’t feel like anything remotely positive at the moment.

Even though it hurt at the time, for me, unexpectedly losing my job gave me the push I needed to move my career down a different path. I might not have done it that soon, or at all, without the impetus I got from hearing that I had lost my job.

It’s emotional and traumatic to be laid off, and even worse to be fired. You’re out of work, you’re out of a paycheck, and you will lose the bond you have with your co-workers because it won’t ever really be the same again even though you’ll promise to stay in touch. It’s painful.

Give yourself some time to mourn a bit, especially if you loved your job. It’s a loss, and giving yourself some time and space to grieve will help. Then you need to get practical and get over it. The quicker you get a job search up and running, the faster you’ll be thinking about your new job instead of the one you lost. Here’s what to do next.

What To Do When You Lose Your Job

File for unemployment. If you lose your job through no fault of your own, you should be eligible for unemployment. Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible even if you were fired. Here’s what you need to know about filing for unemployment.

Check on health insurance options. Check with your manager or your Human Resources department on options for continuing health insurance coverage or investigate options for getting a new policy to cover you while you’re out of work.

Figure out what to do with your retirement plan. What happens to your retirement plan varies on the type of plan you have. Here’s information on what happens to your pension plan and what happens to a 401(k) when you leave your job.

Work on a personal budget. Your unemployment check is going to be less than your paycheck, so think about how you can save some money. It’s also going to last for a much shorter time because many states have cut back the number of weeks of unemployment they provide.

Sign up for 30 Days to a New Job. If finances are an issue, and they are for many unemployed workers, you are going to need to hustle a bit. Get the 30 Days to a New Job program online. It will help you stay motivated and keep your job search on track.

Google yourself. Search for your name on Google to see what potential employers are going to view when they check you out. Make sure everything that comes up in the search results is appropriate. The “grandma rule” applies here. You don’t want hiring managers or recruiters to see anything that you wouldn’t want your grandmother to see.

Clean up your social media accounts. Your social media pages are probably going to be on the list of what shows up when you search for yourself. Be sure that all your posts are fit for the public to see. If not, clean them up and adjust your privacy settings.

Revamp your resume. Before you start applying for jobs, take the time to update your resume. Your resume is going to be read by the applicant tracking systems (ATS) that employers use as well as by hiring managers. Be sure to include your most relevant skills and match your qualifications to the job. That will give you the best shot at getting selected for an interview.

Update your LinkedIn profile. If you’re applying for professional positions, you’re going to be checked out on LinkedIn. Update your LinkedIn profile, making sure all the information matches what is on your resume. Here are simple steps for making a better LinkedIn profile.

Connect with your network. This is a good time to connect with your network. Use LinkedIn, your college alumni network, and your professional and personal networks to help your job search. Ask your connections to let you know if they come across jobs that would be a good fit.

Get references. While you’re connecting with your network, consider who would be good to use for a reference. That’s especially important if you were fired. Line up a few references now, so they can expect a call when you start interviewing. Here’s who and how to ask for an employment reference.

Check job listings. Now that you’ve got many of the pieces of the job search puzzle in place, start checking out job listings and applying for jobs. Use job search engines like Indeed.com to get job postings from many different online sources with just a few clicks.

Focus your job search. Use the advanced search options to focus on job listings that are a match for your interests and skills, and in a location where you want to work. Don’t waste your time applying for jobs that aren’t a good fit. This is a competitive job market, and if you’re not qualified you aren’t going to be considered.

Write targeted cover letters. Don’t skimp when it comes to your job applications. Your cover letters need to make a compelling case as to why you should be hired. Use your cover letters to show the reader, at a glance, why you are the best-qualified person for the job. Here are tips for writing interview winning cover letters.

Find out what you’re worth. You’re going to be asked about salary when you interview. Your salary history is important, and so are your salary expectations. Do you have a minimum amount that you need to get by? What should be you be earning? Use salary reports, like those offered by PayScale.com, so you don’t sell yourself short if an employer is looking to hire cheap.

Get an interview outfit (or two) ready. Expect to have at least a couple of interviews for every job you apply for. Some may be on the phone or via video. Others will be on-site, so be prepared to dress appropriately for the job and company you’re interviewing with. Here’s how to choose an interview outfit that’s a good match, and what to wear for a Zoom interview.

Practice interviewing. The best way to prepare for an interview is to practice, practice again, and then practice some more. Review the most common interview questions employers ask, so you’re prepared to answer. Check out these tips for how to rehearse at home, and for how to prepare for a job interview so you make the best impression. Be prepared for a virtual interview – many employers are moving the hiring process online. Also be prepared to answer interview questions about why you left your job.

Say thank you and follow up. Manners matter. In fact, they can make a difference in whether you get a second interview or even a job offer. Take the time to follow up and thank your interviewers. Here are sample thank you notes and email messages you can tailor to fit your own circumstances.

Don’t get discouraged. You are probably going to not hear back from more employers than you expected. Unfortunately, many companies don’t bother to notify applicants who weren’t selected. The interview process may be much longer than you anticipated. You may be asked to interview three or four, or even more times, before a hiring decision is made. Expect this to take a while, and try not to feel down if you don’t get hired right away. It’s not you – the employer is looking for the candidate who is the best fit. It’s better, even though it may not feel that way, not to get hired than to have a job that doesn’t work out.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Finally, and most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Friends and family will be glad to assist, but they can’t if they don’t know that you need assistance. Whether you need a loan, a ride, a babysitter, someone to proofread your job application materials, or an outfit to borrow to wear to an interview, don’t hesitate to ask.

Related Articles: How to Handle Getting Fired | Tips for Leaving Your Job

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How to Dress for a Zoom Job Interview

With more companies conducting job interviews over Zoom and other video platforms, choosing an outfit has become a whole new ballgame. What looks good in person may look like a sloppy nightmare in video calls. Job seekers are learning how to style themselves from scratch.

Joseph Rosenfeld is a personal stylist and corporate image consultant who has seen his clients struggle over what to wear in the digital atmosphere.

“It’s not just about how you want your clothes to show up on Zoom, although that is a part of it,” Rosenfeld said. “It’s more of a story about your overall presence. Visuals are really important. That’s the prism through which everyone is going to receive your communication. On Zoom, you have just a little bit of real estate to do it.”

10 Tips for What to Wear to a Video Job Interview

Rosenfeld shared tips on how to look stylish and maximize your Zoom “real estate” during a job interview. 

1. Groom, groom, groom.

Grooming is a major part of personal style, and it’s a great way to display your professionalism during a job interview. You may not have the best haircut during COVID-19, understandably, but you should be able to style your hair as neatly as possible, said Rosenfeld. If you wear makeup, put on a little more than usual so that the contrast shows through the fuzziness of your webcam feed.

“Keep a clean face,” said Rosenfeld. “I think it’s fair and important to say that any gender identity should maintain good grooming standards. Make yourself look bright for the camera so that when you’re seen by people, you leave them with a good impression.” 

2. Background matters a lot.

Your background is just as important as your outfit, and the two go hand-in-hand, according to Rosenfeld. Your Zoom window shows only a small frame, so everything stands out. Keep your background tidy.

“Background has never been a part of personal style as it is now,” said Rosenfeld. “Now that you’re broadcasting from the comforts of home, it is important to set up your background properly so that it’s a proper representation of your professionalism.”

You can use the composition to your advantage and create an interesting, conversation-worthy background, as long as it’s not distracting.

“If you play a musical instrument, why not have one out so people can see? It makes sense that you should be surrounding yourself with elements of the best of you,” said Rosenfeld. “They’ll see that you’re an interesting, multi-faceted person.” 

Your background color and lighting will dictate what you should wear. (See numbers 3 and 4 below.)

3. Think about color and contrast. 

During a job interview, you want to stand out in all the right ways. Rosenfeld said that a great place to start is by matching the color of your eyes.

“If you can repeat that on your body, whether it is a top, a blouse, a shirt, an appropriate piece of knitwear, it can be pieces—that’s a wonderful opportunity to amplify the authenticity of a person,” said Rosenfeld. “Eyes to me are always the window of the soul.”

Skin coloring, makeup, hair, outfit, accessories, and background should all be working together in medium contrast, according to Rosenfeld.

For example, a woman with light hair and white skin may want to avoid white walls, or else she’ll blend into the background. However, she’ll also want to avoid too much contrast—such as black walls and black sweaters against a white background—or the effect might be “bobble-head syndrome,” where the head almost looks as if it’s floating in space. Someone with darker skin already has the advantage of contrast against a white wall. 

4. Set up good lighting.

Unless you’re interviewing for a cinematographer position, your hiring manager probably doesn’t expect you to have perfect lighting during your Zoom call. However, there’s no point in dressing your best if you don’t have decent lighting.

“It’s important to have the lighting situation in the room be correct so that when you’re wearing colors, they show up as boldly or vividly as you may want,” said Rosenfeld.

Play around with the lighting in your shot. Make sure the sun isn’t blinding—and bear in mind, this will change depending on the interview’s time of day. Bring in some lamps for warmer tones. Close drapes or throw blankets over your lamps to reel in the bright lights. Be crafty. Your hiring manager doesn’t need to know how much duct tape you used to tone down your fluorescents.

5. Avoid busy patterns.

Unfortunately, video call feeds are fuzzy sometimes thanks to buffering issues. Busy patterns are not advised.

“You may be known as a zany person, but it’s better to actually tone it down and consider wearing something solid or wearing a pattern in a very controlled way,” said Rosenfeld. “You want people to focus on you and not feel as if they have to turn off their camera because they’re dizzy.”

6. Your outfit should be a “culture fit.”

You want to look as if you fit into the company culture, according to Rosenfeld. That doesn’t always mean wearing a suit and tie, and it certainly doesn’t mean dressing down. It means taking cues from the company culture and dressing just a bit fancier.

“Talk to people at the company. Look at the company’s website. Understand what the values of this company are, and ask yourself, ‘How do I visually align with those values?’ Then, amp it up.”

Rosenfeld pointed to Apple as an example. The brand’s overall style is minimalist—so an interviewee at the company might opt for an elegant and sleek outfit while avoiding tons of embellishments.

“You’re courting the people you’re interviewing with,” said Rosenfeld. “If you’re working for a small startup or a tech giant and they don’t have a dress code, that doesn’t mean you’re going to wear a tank top to a job interview. You’ve got to be able to come up with something that says okay, I get this culture.”

7. Pick a few favorites.

If all goes well, you will likely be called for more than one interview. Pick a few of your favorite outfits in order to feel confident and present. 

“Choose a special one,” said Rosenfeld. “Why not take out your favorite shirts or dresses in order to bring your good energy? Have a selection of your faves.”

8. Framing matters.

When framing your shot, make sure your head and the top half of your chest are totally inside the frame. Sit up straight, and center yourself in the shot.

“The framing is about letting people remember what your presence is like in person. Don’t look too slouchy or chill or laid back just because you’re at home. It’s important to let people see you’re taking it seriously,” said Rosenfeld.

For an added bonus, accessorize.

“A lady, for example, can tie a scarf around her neck, which will bring more focus and attention to her face,” said Rosenfeld. “It will make her feel confident and secure in her presence so that she leaves people with that impression. She’s comfortable, confident, focused. You’re focused on her.”

9. Wear pants.

You want to feel professional, focused, and confident. So, wear pants, even if the employer can’t see them, said Rosenfeld.

“It is still really part of your presence,” said Rosenfeld. “And I’m not trying to say, ‘Oh put on heels or dress shoes.’ I’m not suggesting that we take it too far. But I do think that it is important to send the right message to yourself, which then sends the right message to other people. Wear pants, 100%.”

10. Test beforehand, always.

Always run a quick test before you enter a job interview. That means taking a selfie or seeing how you look through your computer webcam. 

“You should be doing this before every call,” said Rosenfeld. “Go stand against that background and take a selfie. Honor what that looks like. If it looks wrong, you can always change outfits. That’s the advantage of being at home.” 

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Tax Deductible Ways to Build Your Career

Taxes can be stressful, especially if you’re expecting a massive bill from the I.R.S. 

Throughout the year, it’s critical that you review your expenses and root out everything tax deductible in order to save some cash. If you incurred out-of-pocket costs in order to build your business, those expenses might be tax deductible.

Typically, you have to be self-employed in order to qualify for these business deductions, but full-time employees may be able to get reimbursed in other ways (see below). 

7 Tax Deductions to Grow Your Career

If you’re looking to build your business while saving some cash during tax time, CPA Orumé Hays suggests logging these deductible expenses next time taxes are due. 

1. Take a class.

Education and training expenses are tax deductible if they’re related to your line of work. For example, if you’re a freelance writer, you should be able to expense the educational portions of a writer’s retreat or online language classes. 

“If there is something you can do to enhance your skills, I encourage you to do it,” said Hays. “Whether you may get a tax break or not, it’s going to pay off in the long run.” 

2. Upgrade your home office.

If you’re self-employed and working from home, you should be able to deduct improvements to your office, from a sorely needed paint job to new or upgraded computer equipment. Hays suggests logging every expense related to office supplies.

“If you need to purchase new equipment for your media conferencing, a faster laptop, a web camera – the cost of all those things as well as utility costs are going to be 100 percent deductible for that business,” Hays said.

3. Attend a virtual career fair.

Virtual career fairs are great ways to scope out your industry, learn about job openings and network. Any fees would be tax deductible for a self-employed individual, according to Hays, as long as the career fair is in line with a person’s existing, proven trade.

“The government likes to encourage the American taxpayer to build up their wealth and career,” Hays said. “Training and development is part of those expenses. Any time that you’re picking up new skills, getting a better job or maximizing your revenue – those things are 100% deductible.” 

4. Upgrade your phone or Internet.

If you use your phone or Internet for your business, you are entitled to a deduction. You must itemize your bills and demonstrate how much of your usage was for business versus personal in the preceding year. You can also deduct upgrade costs if they are necessary to produce income, said Hays.

5. Boost your subscriptions.

You can deduct any subscriptions if they pertain to your line of work. Netflix is deductible for those in the film industry. A fashion magazine subscription is deductible for a makeup artist. Fitness apps are deductible for personal trainers. A premium LinkedIn subscription is tax deductible for many professionals.

“You may think a magazine is not deductible, but it’s research if it’s relevant to your industry or project,” said Hays.

6. Hit the road.

Your mileage is tax deductible as long as you’re using said mileage for your business. If you drive to a career fair, a job interview, or a site for research for a project, you can deduct those miles on your taxes. Keep an eye on your odometer and log changes throughout the year. You may also be able to deduct other transportation expenses, such as bus fares or car servicing.

“As long as it’s an ordinary and necessary expense for you to run your business, you can deduct it,” said Hays.

7. For full-timers: Ask about an “accountable plan”

Unfortunately, the U.S. no longer allows full-time employees to deduct business expenses on their individual tax returns. However, you may be entitled to reimbursement from your full-time employer for some or all of the expenses above. Log everything and keep every receipt. Often, employers are happy to pay for extra training, and they should be willing to reimburse you for out-of-pocket costs pertaining to their business. Also, they get a tax deduction out of it.

“Ask your employer about their ‘accountable plan,’” said Hays. “Even if they don’t have one yet, you can speak to them about it. It’s something that will be beneficial for them in the long-run.”

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How to Negotiate For a Salary at a New Job

Negotiating for a salary at a new job can be tricky. You and the interviewer may have sharply opposing goals: you’re eager to get the highest possible salary, while the company likely wants you to accept the lowest possible amount within the job’s salary range. 

In the end, the hope is that both of you can agree on a salary that matches your worth. However, it may take some effort on your part to stand up for yourself.

Negotiating a new salary can feel like a minefield, but with research and planning, you can develop a strategy that will ensure you a fair salary. 

10 Tips for Negotiating a Salary for a New Job

1. Research the company and position in advance.

If the company is private, you probably can’t access employee salaries directly. However, you can do some research on your own to find out an approximation of the salary you should expect. 

The best way to research salaries is to ask real people. Talk to company insiders, if you know them personally. Ask fellow employees with the same or similar job titles, or seasoned managers in your industry. Remember that location matters too — nurses in New York and Georgia are on different pay scales, for example. 

If an insider is not available to you, feel free to browse sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and Salary.com to get a range. Don’t use these sites as gospel, however. Results vary widely and may not apply to your individual circumstances.

2. Be vague about your rate until the job is almost yours.

Throughout the job application process, you might be asked to give your salary requirements. You don’t have to state your requirements right away. In fact, try to stay vague until the company really wants you. This tactic will put you in the best position to negotiate. 

For example, if a prompt asks for your salary requirements in the cold online application, you can write “negotiable.” If an HR representative asks about your requirements before you’ve even interviewed with the hiring manager, you can say, “I’d rather learn more about the position first.” Don’t feel obligated to give the rate from your current job. It’s actually illegal in some states for companies to ask for your previous salary.

By delaying when you divulge your rate, you’ll also have more time to get a feel for the position, what it’s worth to you and what you believe the company is willing to pay.

3. Pick a baseline and aim high.

Yes, it might feel weird, but aim just a little higher than your comfort zone commands. People — particularly women — tend to undersell themselves and regret it later on. 

First, figure out your baseline. This includes your basic cost of living plus a bit extra. Then, go higher.

You may feel sheepish because you don’t want to seem greedy or risk having the offer rescinded. But think of salary negotiation as a rare opportunity to boost your income in a serious way. You have no idea if or when you’ll get a raise at this position, and raises are typically limited to a small percentage. If you aim high and the company really wants you, the worst that can happen is that they try to dial you back.

Typically, by the time you’re in salary negotiations, the offer won’t leave the table unless you want it to. Remember that hiring managers really want to fill this position, and they don’t want to go back to the drawing board.

In the best-case scenario, that high salary is yours — maybe you’ll wish you’d asked for even more.

4. …But not so high that you seem insane.

Obviously, there is such a thing as too high. If you’re an entry-level candidate in the media industry, for example, you probably shouldn’t ask for $1 million, or even $100,000. $60,000 might even be pushing it, depending on the company.

Be ambitious and get slightly uncomfortable, but also stay grounded in reality. Companies don’t take well to delusional candidates. If you’re not sure, run your numbers by a knowledgeable and trusted person who works in your industry.

5. Evaluate what the position is worth to you.

You might be willing to accept a somewhat lower salary for a position that provides growth potential, helps you acquire cutting-edge skills, accommodates your lifestyle, or bridges you to a new industry. 

On the other hand, if you have reservations about how well the job fits your situation, you might convey a pie-in-the-sky salary expectation, figuring that you have less to lose if you price yourself out of a job. 

6. Provide a range.

Experts suggest that you give a salary range, rather than an actual number. If you are offered the low end of your range, you could use that as an opportunity to request other non-salary benefits or perks, such as reimbursement for classes, vacation days or a flexible schedule. 

7. Act cool, even if you don’t feel cool.

Negotiating is kind of like playing chicken. Some companies offer a rate first, while others will wait for you to throw down. Sometimes companies take forever to get back to you. There’s a lot of guesswork, and unfortunately, nothing is guaranteed in negotiating. The process is largely out of your control, which can be very frustrating. 

No matter how annoyed or nervous you feel about the process, play it cool when interacting with your potential employers. Save any emotional reactions for your friends over brunch, and keep the negotiations totally professional.

8. Crank up their offer.

Salary negotiations are not over once you receive an offer. The first offer made by an employer is often not the highest possible salary that you can secure. Be ready to concisely articulate what is special about you as a candidate that justifies placing you at the higher end of the range for the job. Think of the offer as the opening gambit in a game. For detailed strategies, check out five things to evaluate when you receive an offer. 

9. If appropriate, make a counteroffer. 

If you’re looking for something wildly different than the original offer, you may want to make a counteroffer. That means drawing up a totally new offer, likely with new stipulations such as added vacation days or different scheduling. 

Here is information on how to negotiate a counteroffer. Of course, the offer can be rescinded at any time, so again, don’t get delusional.

If you’re lucky enough to have a second offer from another position, you can present it as leverage for a higher salary by starting a bidding war.

10. Be honest.

There are millions of ways to lie during the salary negotiation process, and no doubt about it, it can be tempting. People often inflate their previous salaries or pretend they have a very high offer from another job.

The problem is, you never know if a hiring manager knows somebody really well at your previous job, or at your fake other potential job. If you’re caught, it’s all over. It’s not worth it. Just be honest. 

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