Most of us need a little boost every so often.May be you need to figure out how to stay motivated while working from home. May be it has nothing to with working from home. Perhaps you need to figure out how to stay motivated after a setback.

In any case, this report includes powerful tips to stay motivated. It also includes 3 actionable steps you can take right away and a list of suggested reading for those people who are looking for even more information.

Do you ever wake up in the morning, and the last thing you want to do is get out of bed? How about the mornings when you wake up, hop out of bed ready to take on the world? What's the difference between those two scenarios?  Motivation. 

​Motivation is what compels us to set goals, and more importantly - drives us towards them. Below is a snapshot of how Motivation is defined at Dictionary.com: 

Thesaurus.com suggests the following list, each as a motivation synonym.

​Read the tips below and use them to learn how to tap into the power of motivation.

1. Know What You Want
What is the point of motivation if you don't know what you want? Without having a clear vision of exactly what you desire, you won't be able to build up enough motivation to get through the obstacles you are sure to face.
 
2. Know Why You Want It
This step is just as important as knowing what you want. Why do you want to reach specific goals? What will it mean to your life? Think about all the people in your life that you don't want to let down. These are the "whys," and they are essential.
 
3. Set Goals That Excite You
It's beneficial to set reasonable goals that are easy to reach. I would never suggest stopping that. However, it can also help to set some relatively wild or audacious goals. These goals might seem out of reach right now, but the allure of reaching them in the future might motivate you in the present. 
 
4. Track and Measure Your Results
Tracking and measuring your progress is key to motivation. Learn about using tools to use to measure your goals. When you can actually see your efforts paying off, your motivation will naturally rise. If you don't track and measure, how else will you know if you are making profess?
 
5. Reward Yourself
If you are tracking your progress, make sure you reward yourself at least once daily. Rewarding yourself will ensure that you stay motivated. You are more likely to keep plugging away when you can see that reward getting closer and closer.
 
6. Use Your Social Circle
Building accountability through your social circle is a great idea. When you have a big goal you want to achieve, let the people in your life know. Besides them potentially helping you along the way, it will also make you more accountable. The funny thing is, we are more likely to let ourselves down than our loved ones. Revive your network and leverage the power of connecting with others.
 
7. Fake It
Not feeling motivated or energetic today? Try faking it. This tactic won't work all of the time, but it could help you get through a slow morning or two. Pump yourself up with some music. Chug some coffee. Jump around if you have to. Anything to make yourself feel a bit more energetic.
 
8. Take Action
Have you ever sat down to work, and you just couldn't get started? Sometimes all it takes to give your motivation a little boost is to accomplish one simple task. Pick the single, most straightforward thing you can do towards any of your goals and do it. Most likely, this will motivate you to take on the next challenge.
 
9. Find Your Inspiration
People get inspired by different things. If you want to maximize your motivation, then you need to figure out what inspires you. Maybe it's a specific type of music. Perhaps it's a view from your house. It could be a motivational speaker or celebrity. Find out what inspires you and schedule some time to immerse yourself in it each day. YouTube is a great resources. Search for motivational videos.

• Think about all of your goals and desires. Now list why each is important to you. If you don't want to get overwhelmed, focus on one or two primary goals.  
• Keep thinking about the goals from the last tip. Now, think about how you can reward yourself for hitting milestones along the way. When is a good time for a reward? What is a good reward?       ​ 
• Find 2-3 things that truly inspire you. Maybe it's a TedTalk on Youtube. It might be a music playlist you can put on whenever you need it. Regardless of what it is, find what inspires you, and immerse yourself in it

• ​The Motivation Manifesto

1. Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life
2. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
3. Master Your Motivation: A Practical Guide to Unstick Yourself
4. Motivation Makeover: Rethinking the Reality of What Drives Us

​This article was originally published in 2021 and has been updated to reflect resume writing standards, hiring practices, and ATS expectations in 2026.
 
Starting your resume can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In 2026, resumes are no longer simple summaries of job duties; they are strategic marketing documents designed to communicate value quickly to both hiring technology and human decision-makers. Your resume should clearly highlight what sets you apart, demonstrate impact, and align with how employers evaluate candidates today.
 
The good news is that resumes are not static documents. You can (and should) revise them as your career evolves and as job market expectations change. The tips below will help you build a strong foundation and ensure your resume remains competitive in today’s fast-moving hiring landscape.

​Here is a list of tips for resume writing:

​Before you start writing, preparation is key. Gathering the right information upfront allows you to focus on strategy rather than scrambling for details later. A well-prepared resume is clearer, more targeted, and easier to tailor for specific roles. The following steps will help you organize your experience, clarify your value, and create a resume that is both ATS-friendly and recruiter-ready.

First, gather all relevant information, including work history with dates, education, skills, certifications, professional affiliations, and achievements. Start with as much information as possible; you can always refine and remove items later.

Make a list of your qualifications for this particular job. Start with a Resume Checklist. Think about why you would make a good candidate for this employer and then write that into one or two sentences. This can be put near the top of the resume. The starting section of your resume should include a compelling one-sentence about what sets you apart, what you bring forth, and why you would make a good candidate. This is similar to an elevator pitch.

When you consider what your qualifications are, make a list of all of them. Then, edit the list to include the unique qualifications that many other people wouldn't have. Start with a list of at least three and no more than 10 of your outstanding qualifications for the job. These can be experience-related, or skill-related or accomplishment-related. Write simple true statements about yourself to sum up your qualifications. It's also important to  quantify your accomplishments on your resume.

Resumes should always be written in reverse chronological order, with the most recent position listed first. If you have many years of experience, roles older than 20 years can usually be removed or summarized.

List your educational credentials, including institution name, location, degree, and year earned. Do not include high school education unless it is your highest level of academic achievement. Don't list high school education unless it is the only academic achievement.

If you have completed technical training, certification programs, or relevant coursework, list them here. Awards and special honors should also be included when they support your candidacy.

As a general rule, you may include a brief statement offering to provide additional information upon request, though this is optional and no longer required in most cases.

Consider the presentation quality. Browsing through professional resume samples helps. Arrange the items in an aesthetically pleasing format. 

Select one professional, easy-to-read font and use it consistently throughout the document. Consistency improves readability and professionalism.

Justify margins for a more professional presentation. Headings may be centered if done consistently and sparingly.

Use bold formatting for section headings and your name at the top of the resume. Avoid excessive formatting that distracts from content.

Your contact information should appear at the top of the resume, directly under your name. Avoid placing it at the bottom of the document.

Resume writing in 2026 is focused on positioning, relevance, and speed. Recruiters often spend only a few seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to continue reading. As a result, clarity and outcomes matter more than exhaustive detail. Employers want to see how your experience solves problems, drives results, and aligns with their current needs. A modern resume is concise, targeted, and built around value, not job descriptions.

Most resumes today are screened by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and AI tools before reaching a recruiter. These systems scan for job-specific keywords, recognizable section headings, and clean formatting. To improve visibility, resumes should reflect the language used in job postings while avoiding keyword stuffing. Simple layouts, standard headings, and ATS-friendly file formats help ensure your resume is parsed accurately and not filtered out prematurely.

Employers increasingly expect proof of impact. Listing responsibilities alone rarely differentiates candidates. Quantified achievements, such as percentages, dollar amounts, or time saved, provide concrete evidence of your value. Perhaps you held a postion that wasn't big on numbers. Even in non-revenue roles, results can often be framed in terms of scale, efficiency, or outcomes. Strong resumes show what changed because you were in the role.

Hybrid and remote work environments are now standard in many industries. Employers look for candidates who can work independently, collaborate across locations, and communicate effectively in digital settings. Highlighting experience with collaboration tools, cross-functional teams, and self-directed work demonstrates readiness for modern workplaces and increases your appeal for flexible roles.

In 2026, resumes and LinkedIn profiles work together as part of a cohesive professional brand. Recruiters often review LinkedIn immediately after scanning a resume to verify experience and assess communication style. While the two should align in messaging and career progression, they should not be identical. A resume is concise and targeted, while LinkedIn allows more narrative depth and context.

Knowing what to exclude is just as important as knowing what to include. Objectives have largely been replaced by value-focused summaries. Personal details such as age, marital status, or photos are unnecessary in US resumes. Outdated technology, irrelevant early-career roles, and excessive detail can dilute your message. Modern resumes are intentional, focused, and role-specific.

Today’s job market is faster, more competitive, and more technology-driven than ever. A strong resume must speak to both automated systems and human decision-makers while clearly positioning you for the role you want. Professional guidance can help ensure your resume is targeted, quantified, and aligned with how hiring actually works in 2026. If you want support with resume writing, LinkedIn optimization, or job interview coaching, I can help you move forward with confidence.

A resume is more than a record of employment; it’s a strategic document that shapes first impressions and opens doors. By combining strong foundational principles with modern hiring insights, you can create a resume that remains relevant and effective in today’s job market. Revisit and update your resume regularly, stay aligned with current trends, and focus on communicating value clearly. A well-crafted resume continues to be one of the most powerful tools in your career journey.

What should a resume include in 2026?
A resume in 2026 should include a clear professional summary, relevant work experience with quantified achievements, key skills aligned to the job description, education, and certifications. Content should be concise, targeted, and optimized for both ATS and recruiters.
 
How long should a resume be today?
For most professionals, a one- to two-page resume is ideal. Entry-level and junior candidates typically benefit from one page, while and mid-career, accomplished, and senior professionals may require two pages to show scope and impact without unnecessary detail.
 
Do resumes still need to be customized for each job?
Yes. In 2026, customizing your resume is expected. Using job-specific keywords, highlighting relevant achievements, and adjusting your summary significantly improves ATS performance and recruiter engagement.
 
Are PDFs or Word documents better for resumes?
Both formats are acceptable, but you should always follow employer instructions. Word documents are often preferred by ATS systems, while PDFs work well when formatting consistency is critical.
 
What are the most common resume mistakes job seekers make?
Common mistakes include listing responsibilities instead of results, using outdated formats, failing to quantify achievements, including irrelevant experience, and ignoring ATS optimization.
 
How important is LinkedIn compared to a resume?
Both are essential and should work together. Your resume is a targeted marketing document, while LinkedIn supports credibility, visibility, and recruiter searches. Inconsistencies between the two can raise red flags.

Source: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/tips-for-resume-writing

​Have you ever stopped to consider the cost of being unemployed? The longer you are out of work, the more costly it is. Here are some things you may — or may not — have considered as the “cost of unemployment.”

​Loss of income is the most obvious cost of unemployment. Unemployment benefits – if you’re eligible for them — only cover a portion of your lost income. According to research by Newsweek, basic unemployment benefits average $300-$400 a week, typically covering 45 percent of a worker’s income. Severance pay, if offered, can help, but a long period of unemployment can outlast that as well.

According to the 2019 Census, 55 percent of Americans have employer-paid health insurance. Research from the Kaiser Family Foundation found the average annual single premium per enrolled employee for employer-based health insurance was $6,972 per year in 2019, with the employee contributing $1,489 of that, and the employer paying $5,483.
 
While the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) health insurance program allows eligible employees and their dependents to continue their health insurance coverage for 18 to 36 months after a job loss, the entire cost of the premiums is the responsibility of the individual. Based on the average, that means you would be responsible for paying almost $600 a month in health insurance premiums to keep your existing coverage.
 
If COBRA coverage is not available, individuals can obtain insurance through the government’s Healthcare Marketplace, but that coverage can be expensive. A short-term health insurance policy may be more affordable, but may have a higher deductible and limited coverage. Going without healthcare insurance is risky financially. Medical bills are reported to be the number one cause of U.S. bankruptcies, and being uninsured can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses.

​If you were contributing to your company’s retirement plan — especially if your contributions were matched by your employer — consider the financial impact of missing out on adding to your retirement savings. Every $500 missed could be worth up to $1,300 (assuming 5 percent growth over a 20-year period). Missing out on six months’ worth of retirement contributions could equal almost $8,000 in lost retirement income.

According to CNBC, 63 percent of households report living paycheck to paycheck, meaning the loss of even one month’s salary could cause severe financial insecurity. Eight in 10 people say they currently can’t cover a $500 emergency. Research also shows that unemployment is linked to anxiety and depression, among other negative outcomes.

​When you’re unemployed, you may take a lower-paying job while negotiating your salary, just to get back into the job market. However, don't forget to think about the day when you may need to have a conversation about getting the raise you deserve. Since future raises are based on your new (lower) starting salary, you may find yourself missing out on tens of thousands of dollars of future income.
 
For example, if your original salary was $50,000, and you received annual raises of 3 percent, after 5 years, your salary will be $56,275.
 
If you took a job that paid $45,000 and you received annual raises of 3 percent, after 5 years, your salary will be $50,647 — barely what you were making when you left your previous position. You would have also missed out on $26,544 in pay during those five years ($265,453 from the starting salary at $50,000 plus 3 percent raises minus $238,909 – five years of salary starting at $45,000 with a 3 percent annual increase).
 
You may also make poor financial decisions out of desperation. For example, you might cash out your 401(k) fund to free up some cash to cover your living expenses. However, with limited exceptions, if you withdraw money from your 401(k) retirement account before the age of 59-1/2, you will pay a 10% early withdrawal penalty, plus income tax, on the distribution.
 
For someone in the 24 percent tax bracket, an early withdrawal of $5,000 will cost $1,700 in taxes and penalties. In addition, you’ll lose out on the future growth of that $5,000. Invested for 20 years at 5 percent, that $5,000 would have grown to more than $13,000.
 
The best thing you can do if you find yourself unemployed is to get back to work quickly:

• Hire a resume writer
• Get a resume that will make you stand out from the rest
• Revamp your LinkedIn profile
• Learn how to ace online interviews
• ​Hire a career coach if you need to

​First — and most important — keep your résumé up-to-date and ready to go. Not only is it easier to pay for résumé services when you’re employed, but you won’t lose valuable time getting started with your job search. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to create an interview-winning résumé and portfolio of career documents. The sooner you are able to start your job search, the closer you’ll be to going back to work. Also, the longer you are unemployed, the harder it is to find a new job.
 
Second, have an emergency fund. One of the biggest struggles with unemployment is losing your income. Unemployment benefits — if you’re eligible to receive them — can take weeks to get approved. In the meantime, having an emergency fund — even a small fund of 2-4 weeks of expenses — is better than nothing. Most experts recommend having 3-5 months of savings.
 
Third, the best offense is a good defense. If you think you’re in danger of losing your job, batten down the hatches. Make a list of your current expenses (review your checkbook register, credit card statements, or online banking profile) and see what you can cut out. You may have to prepare for a financial apocalypse. Determine which of your current monthly expenses must be maintained (mortgage and car payments, utilities, groceries) and which ones you can do without for now. Eliminate any unnecessary expenses.
 
Finally, it can be easier to find a job when you have a job, so don’t wait until you lose your job to start looking. And take the advice of author Harvey Mackay and “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty” and cultivate your network while you’re still working. Learn how to use LinkedIn. Get a FREE LINKEDIN SCORECARD. Review your professional and personal connections and try to revive your network .
 
After all, the cost of unemployment is high. Higher than you may have thought.

Getting a college degree online has become a very practical reality, as we continue to move on through the worldwide COVID pandemic. Today, there are countless options for getting yourself an online education, depending on your specific needs and goals. If moving on up is on your list of priorities, then an accredited degree may facilitate the process for you significantly.

​Before you begin comparing programs, it’s helpful to understand the broader landscape of online education. With so many colleges offering virtual degrees, the key is knowing how to filter through the noise and identify what truly aligns with your goals. By taking a strategic approach and becoming familiar with what reputable online programs offer, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions as you move into the next steps below.

​​Different people have different needs for getting an online education. Before you begin looking at universities, do some introspection to determine what kind of education you seek, how you can schedule your online education to fit into your routine, how much time and effort you are prepared to spare and whether it is personal fulfillment or career advancement that you aim to achieve through the course. Chances are high you will have to leave your comfort zone behind.

​If your new degree is related to your career, it will become even more significant next time you negotiate your salary, or next time you think about getting the raise you deserve. 

​The internet has an abundance of online education offers  for every conceivable purpose. So take the time to gather information about the options that suit you. Most schools provide free information kits on their education programs that can help you get a better idea of what’s in store if you choose to enroll with any of them. You have the option of conducting searches according to the type of courses you are interested in and college rankings. Make sure you have a clear idea of the program being offered before you invest your hard-earned money and time into any one of them.

As with all offers on the internet, there is no dearth of scams that you need to be wary of when doing your searches for the right course. If you’ve heard about a course through a spam e-mail, steer clear of it. Fake degrees and credentials are plentiful, and you’ll only be wasting your time, effort, and money if you are not careful. ​

​Different online courses have different support services to offer their students. Many offer services like tutoring, reference links, library access, technical assistance, discussion threads, interaction with fellow students, and a variety of other features. Depending on the kind of study aids that are likely to benefit you, make your choice based on the kind of facilities you can avail once you enroll for a course.

Accreditation of the school or institute that you enroll in is of vital importance. After all, if the reason you are pursuing further education is to advance your career, the degree you will be earning needs to be recognized by your employers or prospective employers.

There is a wealth of information available online regarding many different aspects of the education process, including how to apply for financial aid, how to choose the right college, and more. Since the spread of COVID-19 and the worldwide pandemic, almost everyone is seeking to earn their degrees completely online. What many students fail to research, however, is the accreditation process, which is incredibly important. 

An accredited degree entails that you’ve received a certain level of quality in your education. Many “diploma-mill” type schools on the internet promise you’ll receive original degrees in half the time of a traditional learning institution. It has been reported that they make these claims in an attempt to enroll you. More often than not, you may be left with a degree that hasn’t been through the proper accreditation process. What’s more, all of the money and hard work you spent getting the degree is for naught, because a degree that isn’t accredited isn’t recognized as a legitimate proof of your academic endeavors.

Properly accredited online diplomas ensure a student is receiving the type of quality education that is the standard among colleges and universities, both online and offline. What’s more, accreditation holds educational institutions accountable for their actions, as well as ensures confidence. Holding original degrees that have been fully accredited by the proper governing boards ensures that your hard work has paid off and will continue to do so in the future. What’s more, employers and other learning institutions will accept your degree without a problem, even if it’s been obtained online, provided it’s been accredited.

Accreditation is highly important for students for several other reasons as well. For example, students who wish to apply for financial aid can only do so if their school is properly accredited by the correct educational boards. Additionally, to transfer your credits to another accredited educational institution, you have to receive a degree from an accredited school online. Original degrees are the only universally accepted proof of educational merit, and employers may question those who failed to receive a degree that was accredited.  Many potential students fail to understand the importance of accreditation.  They are misleading people into believing that all online degrees are the same; however, this is extremely far from the truth.  Fake or instant degrees are virtually worthless in the eyes of employers.  Not only are they a waste of time, they are also a waste of your hard-earned money.

The bottom line is that you must do your research thoroughly before committing to any online college, and ensure that the degree you will obtain is properly accredited through the correct state or regional boards. Doing so will save you a lot of money, time, and hard work in the long run.

Please contact Mandy Fard at Market-Connections, if you need help with resume writing, interview coaching, or LinkedIn profile optimization.

• ​Job Hunting Without a College Degree