Ready to Go Full-Time with Your Side Hustle?
Ready to Go Full-Time with Your Side Hustle?Follow These 7 Vital StepsYour beloved side hustle is just like your baby, born of your wildest dreams and enthusiasm for what you love. Maybe you’ve been working on your plan for three months or three years. Either way, by now you are thinking about how to prepare to quit your job and go full-time, turning your side hustle into your one and only. It’s scary, no doubt. To help alleviate the fear and pressure you are feeling around quitting your job, read through and see if you can tick off these seven things that will help you succeed if you decide to go full-time. Know How Much Money You Need to SurviveYou need to know down to the dollar how much money it will take to pay your bills every month. This includes keeping the lights on, buying groceries, and saving for your future. Can You Cover Your Monthly Expenses for Five Months Straight?Before quitting your day job, your side hustle should be creating enough income to pay your monthly expenses for five consecutive months. This means covering personal expenses as well as the investment capital to keep your side hustle running smoothly. You Have a Six-Month Emergency FundHave a reserve of money in place in case your first few months are rocky. It’s common to have slow times when you are self-employed. An emergency fund goes a long way toward peace of mind. Your Side Gig Still Excites You, Six Months InSide hustles exist off enthusiasm and hard work. They are created in the margins of our lives that we carve out of already full schedules. This means that you need to keep working your day job for at least six months and still be passionate about your side hustle before quitting your job. You do not want to quit your day job only to find that your side hustle isn’t as important to you as it was in the beginning. You Have GoalsWhat is a business without goals? It’s just you, working away your days. Without an endpoint or means of measuring your success, it’s easy to wonder if you are making any headway. Make short-term and long-term goals for your business, as well as a plan to meet them. This will give you something to work towards and a place to focus when you are feeling listless or forlorn. Make a 12-Week PlanYour 12-week plan can coincide with your goals, or it can simply be mapping out your first 12 weeks of being self-employed. It can be tempting to start your days at 10:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m., and that’s why having a plan in place to outline how, when, and where you work will make the transition smoother. You Have Human Interaction PlannedAt first, it will seem easy to spend your days concentrating on your passion all alone. However, everyone needs human interaction. This may mean planning family or friend outings, finding a coffee shop where you can work, or renting co-working space. ********* Turning your side hustle into a full-time gig is scary. It is also fantastic, exhilarating, and rewarding when done right. If you can successfully check off all these steps, then take the plunge! You may also like: Use Your Hobby to Advance Your Career https://www.market-connections.net/blog/use-your-hobby-to-advance-your-career About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Job Hunting
Job Hunting While Still EmployedThe straw has finally broken the camel’s back. You’ve decided that you need to find a new job. Before you jump directly into job hunting mode, take some time to read these five common mistakes that you should avoid while you look for a new job. Doing so may just save you a lot of time and trouble.
You may not be in love with your job anymore, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t take your time while still working to search for a new job or career path. Avoiding these five common mistakes can make your job search much less stressful. SOURCE: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/5-common-mistakes-to-avoid-when-job-hunting You may also like: https://www.market-connections.net/blog/jobseekers-dont-quit-your-job-yet https://www.market-connections.net/blog/quiet-quitting https://www.market-connections.net/blog/how-to-quit-job https://www.market-connections.net/blog/how-to-quit-a-job About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Job Searching: Student Request for a Professor Recommendation
This recommendation request is designed to help collect endorsements from professors — especially for students with few internships or little work experience. It includes an instruction guide, contact tracking, and template to make the request. How to Secure References for Graduates with Limited Work ExperienceAs graduation season arrives, many new graduates find themselves faced with the daunting task of entering the job market. However, for those who have limited internships or work experience, this can be an added challenge. In such cases, seeking endorsements from professors can be a valuable asset to bolster their credentials and increase their chances while job searching. In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies to obtain professor endorsements for students with limited work experience, helping them showcase their potential and stand out among the competition. Develop Meaningful RelationshipsBuilding strong relationships with professors is essential for obtaining endorsements. Actively engage in class discussions, attend office hours, and demonstrate genuine interest in the subject matter. By investing time and effort into these relationships, students can gain professors' trust and pave the way for successful endorsements. Most people who have read Dale Carnegie's book on relationships (How to Win Friends and Influence People) have found it beneficial. Perhaps reading it at the start of your career can be beneficial to you throughout your career. Seek Opportunities for Additional ResponsibilitiesIn the absence of internships or work experience, students can actively participate in research projects, academic committees, or assist professors with their ongoing work. These additional responsibilities showcase their dedication, commitment, and willingness to contribute beyond the classroom. Such experiences provide professors with firsthand knowledge of a student's capabilities, making them more inclined to provide a strong endorsement. Make sure you know how to show unpaid experiences on the resume. Excel in Coursework and ProjectsStudents should strive for academic excellence by excelling in their coursework and demonstrating exceptional performance in assignments and projects. By consistently producing high-quality work, they create a positive impression on professors, who can vouch for their intellectual capabilities and work ethic. Requesting recommendations from professors who have witnessed their academic achievements can significantly enhance their endorsements. Actively Engage in Class ParticipationActive class participation allows students to showcase their knowledge, critical thinking skills, and ability to articulate ideas. By asking insightful questions, sharing unique perspectives, and engaging in productive discussions, students demonstrate their intellectual curiosity and passion for learning. Professors who observe their active involvement are more likely to provide personalized endorsements highlighting their academic strengths and contributions to the classroom environment. Request a Meeting to Discuss Goals and Career AspirationsArrange a meeting with professors to discuss career goals and aspirations. By sharing their ambitions, students can seek guidance and mentorship from professors who may have industry connections or relevant expertise. These conversations not only demonstrate their proactive approach but also provide an opportunity for professors to gain a deeper understanding of their career objectives, leading to more tailored endorsements that align with their chosen career path. Showcase Relevant Coursework and ProjectsStudents can selectively highlight coursework and projects that are directly related to their desired industry or job role. By showcasing their knowledge and skills in these areas, they can demonstrate practical expertise, even in the absence of traditional work experience. Professors can then focus their endorsements on the specific competencies and achievements showcased through these academic endeavors. For new graduates with limited work experience, obtaining professor endorsements can be a valuable asset when entering the job market. By nurturing meaningful relationships with professors, actively engaging in coursework and projects, seeking additional responsibilities, and showcasing their academic achievements, students can secure personalized endorsements that highlight their potential and make a positive impression on potential employers. These endorsements not only validate their skills and capabilities but also provide a competitive edge in a crowded job market. With the support of professor endorsements, graduates can confidently embark on their professional journeys, armed with the recognition and support of respected academic mentors. INSTRUCTIONS: Student Request for a Professor RecommendationA third-party endorsement or recommendation is a powerful addition to a résumé, cover letter, and/or LinkedIn profile. Professors take the writing of recommendations very seriously, and they expect students to do the same. Recommendations reflect not just the quality of the student, but also the integrity of the professor. Here are some guidelines for requesting a recommendation:
Please provide copies the sample form below to the professors of your choice. You can brainstorm/record your contacts below:
Note: Don’t be discouraged if a professor declines to write a recommendation. People are busy — they don’t always have the time. Or they may have personal reasons to decline. If you get a “no” response, work your way down the list and ask another professor! Be sure to send your professor a thank you note when you receive a recommendation. Professors spend a lot of time on these documents; it’s nice to be acknowledged. And be sure to let your professor know if you get the role you’re pursuing! Student Request for a Professor RecommendationStudent Name: _________________________________________________________________ Professor Name: ________________________________________________________________ Course(s) Taken/Semester: _______________________________________________________ Date You Would Like The Recommendation Returned By: _______________________________ I am preparing my résumé and LinkedIn profile and would appreciate the opportunity to include a recommendation/endorsement from you. Specifically, I am looking for 3-5 sentences that would give a prospective employer an idea of how I might be an asset to their organization, based on your knowledge of me (including my skills, knowledge, and experience) and my academic performance in your classroom. Of course, if you can’t write a recommendation for me, I completely understand. Please do not feel an obligation to say yes. However, if you are willing to provide content for my career materials, I would appreciate it! Please email your response to me at the email address below or text me and I will come by to pick it up. Thank you! Student Email Address: __________________________________________________________ Student Phone Number: _________________________________________________________ You may also cnsider:
About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Network Your Way to Your Next Job
Network Your Way to Your Next JobLeveraging your professional and personal connections can be an effective strategy for securing your next job. The conventional yet reliable approach of networking remains the most successful way to land your dream position. As per Jobvite’s 2022 Job Seeker Nation Survey, a majority of job seekers (46%) discover job openings through their friends and acquaintances, while professional connections (25%) also play a crucial role in the job search process. Research consistently identifies networking as an important job search tool — anywhere from 40-80% of job placements are attributed to networking. When networking, it’s also important to also learn how to access the hidden job market. The “hidden job market” refers to jobs that are not advertised publicly. These positions may be filled through employee referrals, recruiters, or direct contact with hiring managers through networking.) With the right experience and credentials to meet a company’s need, you may even have a job created just for you. It happens all the time. Someone in your network says, “You know what? You should talk to John Jones at the XYZ Company. They’re looking for someone like you.” This guide will help you identify who is in your network and how to use these connections to find your next job. Build Your Network Before You Need ItThe single biggest mistake most job searchers make is not asking for help from their network. People want to help you — so let them! But don’t wait until you’re out of work to start developing relationships with your network. As author Harvey Mackey says, “Dig your well before you’re thirsty.” Develop your contacts, be willing to help these folks with their needs, and they will be there when you need them! The more people who know you are looking for a job, the more eyes and ears that will be available to help. Networking is about getting the people you already know to help connect you to the people who will help you land your next career opportunity. Figure out how to revive your personal network. Next, tap into your network for specific assistance. For example, if you want to work at a particular company, ask people in your network if they know anyone who currently works for — or used to work for — “Company X.” Then contact that person and ask about the company, culture, and hiring practices. Who Is in Your Networkhe first step is to identify who is in your network. This can include: friends, relatives, parents of children’s friends, parents and relatives of your friends, club members, cousins, neighbors, current and previous co-workers and managers, suppliers, professional association contacts, your community contacts (civic leaders, clergy, etc.), and your doctor, financial advisor, or attorney. Your holiday card list, if you have one, can be a good starting point for identifying who is already in your network. If you don’t already have a list, start one! Make a list of all of your contacts — past employers, vendors, customers, colleagues, competitors, and other people you know. You never know who may have a great lead or know of an unadvertised opportunity. Then, expand that list. Here are some ideas for other people to add to your network. Personal Contacts: • Friends • Relatives • Parents of children’s friends • Parents of your friends • Relatives of friends • Club members (country club, swim club, sports club) • Associations • Military service personnel • Sorority/fraternity • Cousins • Neighbors • Sports team members Business Contacts: • Current co-workers • Previous co-workers • Previous managers • Consultants • Vendors and suppliers • Retirees • Seminar, conference, and workshop attendees • Business owners • Competitors • Clients/customers • Venture capitalists • Members of industry associations • Contacts you make at conventions and job fairs Third-Party Contacts: • Accountants • Doctors • Real estate brokers • Financial advisors and bankers • Attorneys • Dentists • Mortgage bankers/brokers • Insurance agents • Travel agents Educational Contacts: • Elementary, middle, and high school friends and teachers • College classmates and friends • Alumni association contacts • Graduate school classmates • Other alumni of your schools • University career-placement office staff • Former professors and advisors Community Contacts: • Civic and political leaders • Librarians • Clergy/ministers • Chambers of Commerce • Community groups (Kiwanis, Rotary, Scouts) • People you meet while volunteering • Health club members Assemble the contact information for these individuals and add them to your list. You can also brainstorm contacts you need to make. Write your desired job target at the top of a piece of paper. Then, make a list of potential employers on the left side of the page. On the right side of the page, make a list of people you know who can connect you with these companies.
Here are some more opportunities to develop your network:
Here's an example of a list of reference directories for companies in manufacturing:
These are just a few examples of the many reference directories available for companies in manufacturing. Depending on your specific needs, you may find that one or more of these directories is particularly useful. There are similar lists for many industries; i.e.: Transportation, fashion, healthcare, etc. How to Use Your NetworkUse simple networking ideas to find a new job. The first is to contact specific people in your network — or your entire network — and let them know you are looking for ideas, information, advice, and contacts/referrals. Even if you’re contacting someone with the power to hire you, don’t ask for a job. Ask for advice or assistance, not a job. Create a networking cover letter. Click on the following link leading you to a blog post titled: Cover Letter Template Free. You will find three (3) free samples of networking cover letters. They are as follows:
Use a Cover Letter and send it with your resume to each of the contacts in your network. This is the broadest way to use your network, and can be useful if you are currently unemployed and not worried about jeopardizing your current job by visibly pursuing a new one. A more effective way to use your network is a more targeted approach. Identify the specific need you have, and then contact people who are in a position to help you reach that specific job goal. The more specific you are about what you need or what you’re looking for, the more likely you are to get what you want. For example, if you see an advertised opening for a position, go through your network and see who might be able to provide you with access to the hiring manager (or someone else who works at the company), information about that specific company (or the company’s position in the industry), or information about the specific position you’re seeking. You can use your network contact to make an introduction to a hiring manager — either asking them to pass along your resume to that individual, introducing you directly, or allowing you to use their name when making an initial contact. Technology and NetworkingSocial media can also be effective for helping you achieve your networking goals. You can let your network know you are looking for a new position by posting status updates on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. This is particularly useful if you are currently unemployed and you’re not worried about your boss finding out you’re seeking a new position. (Even if you have your social media profile privacy settings locked down, remember that anything you post online can potentially become public information — all it takes is someone you know taking a screenshot of what you’ve posted, or mentioning the information, and it’s no longer private.) You can also research a potential connection using social media. Find out if the person has a LinkedIn profile, Facebook page, or Twitter account. LinkedIn is particularly effective in helping you take your existing contacts and leverage them into even more networking opportunities. You can see how you’re connected to a company or another individual using LinkedIn. Use social media to arrange in-person get-togethers. For example, if you make a new contact on LinkedIn, if they are local, arrange to meet them in person. Technology makes networking easier, but face-to-face interaction is still the best way to network. You can also use technology to personalize your networking, even when you are contacting many people at the same time. (For example, you can use Microsoft Word’s “mail merge” function to create personalized networking letters for each of your contacts.) ​Networking in a Confidential Job SearchEver been surprised when a friend announces a new job and you didn’t even know they were looking? You can use networking even when you’re quietly searching for a new position. However, be aware that the more people who know you’re looking for a new job, the more likely your current employer is to find out about it. One way to avoid this is to build your network even when you’re not searching for a new job. Again, listen to Harvey Mackey’s advice to “dig your well before you’re thirsty.” Having a robust network can also help you be more effective in your current position, by giving you access to people who can help you solve the problems you face in your daily work. Contact members of your network individually about your job search instead of mass messages or social media updates. Let your contact know that you are conducting your job search quietly, and ask for their help in keeping your search confidential. If your primary purpose of networking is for your job search, don’t network on company time or using company resources. And never use your company email to send emails to your networking contacts. When you are updating your LinkedIn profile as part of your job search, update your profile and slowly add new contacts. Don’t add everything all at once. Additionally, be sure to change your setting about sharing notifications before you change your profile or add a bunch of new contacts. In your LinkedIn account, in the upper right-hand corner of the page, access the drop-down menu under your name and choose the “Settings” option. On the main menu, click on your photo, and when the drop-down menu appears, click “Settings & Privacy.”  Step 1 - LinkedIn profile Settings and Privacy You will see “Settings” on the left side of the page. Click on “Visibiliy” listed under "Settings".  Step 2 - LinkedIn profile instructions to change activities' visibility After you click on "Visibility", scroll down to find and click on "Share profile updates with your network" listed under "Visibility of your LinkedIn activity". Click on "Share profile updates with your network".  Step 3 - LinkedIn profile instructions to change activities' visibility You can choose whether your network is notified about your profile changes. If the setting is on, your connections will receive notifications when you add information to your profile or change the content. As you build your LinkedIn profile, this can trigger many notifications. And, if you’re conducting a stealth job search, it can draw unwanted attention to your LinkedIn profile. As a general rule, you will want to turn off notifications when updating your profile. Slide the setting to “Off.” Later on, you can turn these notifications back on and adjust your privacy settings. But for now, just make sure this is changed to “Off.”  Step 4 - LinkedIn profile instructions to share or not share profile edits ​Keys to SuccessDo you wonder why some people are more effective using networking to find their next job? Here are some keys to success in using networking in a job search:
​When You Get Your New JobAfter you land your new job, be sure to thank your network — especially contacts that have specifically helped you with your job search. Send a personal note to everyone who assisted you in your search, and consider sending or giving a small gift to those who were of particular help. And don’t forget to spread the word that you’ve accepted a new opportunity. Don’t neglect your network just because you found a new job. One of the most important parts of maintaining your network is providing assistance when you are asked. Be responsive to requests for help from folks in your network when you are asked. Every person you meet is a potential networking contact. But networking is a two-way relationship. Don’t just see your network as contacts — see them as people. Learn about them and what they do. Heed the advice of author and networking pro Harvey Mackey: “If I had to name the single characteristic shared by all the truly successful people I’ve met over a lifetime, I’d say it is the ability to create and nurture a network of contacts. A network replaces the weakness of the individual with the strength of a support system. You don’t have to know everything as long as you know the people who do.” About the AuthorMandy Fard is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, CMRW) and Recruiter with decades of experience in assisting job seekers, working directly with employers in multiple industries, and writing proven-effective resumes. 
Career Reinvention: Making the most of your 50s and 60s
​Career Reinvention: Making the Most of Your 50s and 60s“It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” — Motivational speaker Les Brown The concept of the traditional career path is changing. With more than 108 million people who are now age 50 or older — and with one in five Americans will be 65 or older by 2030 — the idea of an upwards career path culminating in retirement at age 65 or 67 is evolving to “second act” and even “third act” careers. As we move forward, a midlife career change is becoming more common. There are countless stories of successful midlife career changes:
There are also numerous examples of musicians and actors who have reinvented themselves over the years to appeal to new generations of fans. Among them: David Bowie, Phil Collins, Tony Bennett, Henry Winkler, Robert Downey Jr., and Drew Barrymore. These people are reminders that you always have the power to make a change and become the person you always wanted to be — the person you were meant to be. The years between 40-60 are generally considered to be “peak earning years,” as full-time workers with bachelor’s degrees generally tend to make the most money during those two decades. As a result, your 50s are the decade in which your income-earning potential can be its highest. But many people feel stuck or uncertain about their future when they turn 50. They may have worked in the same job for many years and are feeling frustrated or bored. They may no longer be challenged by the work they are doing. Or they may have hit a “pay ceiling” — maxing out their salary compensation for the type of work they are doing, without the opportunity for further significant growth. They may have experienced personal changes that are causing them to re-evaluate their professional career. They may have gotten divorced, or experienced the death of a spouse, parent, or loved one. Or their children may have left for college, leaving them with an empty nest. Some are convinced it’s too late to start something new. Some are worried about age discrimination in the job search. None of these are reasons not to reinvent yourself after age 50. Career reinvention at this stage often means finding the intersection of:
Step One: Get in the Right MindsetSome people see 50 as the “beginning of the end,” and they begin thinking about how to step down the corporate ladder as they approach retirement. Others see the milestone as a reset button and start making new plans about how to make their remaining working years the best time possible. Take some time to reflect on your life and career. What did you want to be when you grew up? What were you passionate about? Did life get in the way of you achieving some of your dreams? Next, decide what you want. Set a specific goal for professional development. If you believe that you can achieve it, you can. Don’t talk yourself out of what you are capable of achieving. Just because you haven’t achieved it yet doesn’t mean it isn’t possible. Be aware of negative thoughts and self-sabotaging behavior. You also need to adopt a growth mindset. You have to believe that you are capable of change and that any failures you encounter are not “who you are.” A growth mindset means you believe in your ability to become better. Acknowledge the fear of leaving your comfort zone. Make a list of the challenges and roadblocks you will likely encounter and develop a plan for tackling them. For example: If you are a long-time teacher who is considering a career change to the corporate world as a learning and development coordinator, one of the biggest challenges might be learning new technology (in particular, a specific L&D software/platform). Your plan might be to research the most common L&D platforms and identify courses or online training to learn the technology. Step Two: Decide on a DestinationReview your reflections and goals from step one and decide what you want to do next. Do you want to move up within your current industry or profession, or make a complete change? What will reignite your passion? For inspiration, look at people you know and the changes they’ve made. Is there a defined path you can follow? For example, it’s not uncommon for lawyers to move into a judge role in their 50s. Some advertising executives start their own agencies in their 50s or move from an agency into a corporate role. Sometimes money becomes less of a motivator later in your career, and you might decide to leave a stressful corporate role for a smaller business, startup, or even a nonprofit. (Although making this kind of move doesn’t necessarily need to lead to a pay cut, it can sometimes result in lower pay in exchange for a better work/life balance.) You may also be seeking a change because you’re no longer able to physically do some of the things you’ve always done in your career. Are there ways you can use your skills, knowledge, and experience in a less physically demanding job in the same profession? Or would a complete career change be a better fit? For example: If you’re a furniture warehouse manager who works in the field alongside employees, but your body is feeling the aches and pains from hauling heavy items up and down stairs, you might consider using your staffing, logistics, and operations knowledge in a less “hands on” role. Step Three: Create Your Career PlanNow that you know where you want to go, it’s time to chart your path and perhaps use a career development planner. In your career reinvention, you may need new skills. For example, you may decide to learn a new language. There are any number of online courses and apps to help you. The most important thing is to pick one and then schedule the time to work through the information. The same is true if you’re considering starting your own business as part of your career reinvention. You will need to research your opportunities. Will you consult or freelance? Will you purchase a franchise? Start a business from scratch? What resources will you need? Create a roadmap to guide you through all steps in the self-employment journey. (And a note about starting your own business in your 50s: While younger startup founders tend to be more technologically savvy and risk-averse, older founders often have more knowledge, business skills, connections, and access to startup capital.) Can you see yourself going back to school? Or pursuing additional training and/or certification. Can you use your hobby to advance your career? Perhaps you enjoy woodworking as a hobby. Could you create custom furniture? Or combine your technology knowledge with your hobby and program CNC machines for manufacturers. Ageism and age discrimination are still a reality, but as the workforce ages and worker shortages continue to be an issue, things may change. Professions that have traditionally had mandatory retirement ages — for example, airline pilots — are loosening some requirements. Some accounting and law firms that had retirement policies that pushed out highly experienced professionals are reconsidering those requirements. Identify employers who support second act and third act careers. For example: Look for companies that have Certified Age Friendly Employer (CAFE) status and use sites such as agefriendly.org/jobs to identify possible age-friendly workplaces. Step Four: Baby StepsA drastic change isn’t necessarily the best way to start. Instead, consider baby steps. If you’re considering a career change, investigate the new profession thoroughly. Learn how to ask for informational interviews and begin conducting informational interviews. You may also want to “shadow” someone who does what you want to do, to make sure you really understand what’s involved in the new role. Considering quitting to start a business? Pursue it as a side hustle first. If you are able to, build up the business so that you’re replacing at least 50 percent of your income before you quit your job (with a plan to get to 100% or even 125% once you’re able to dedicate your full attention to the venture). Also, be aware if your current employer has restrictions on outside employment. And don’t dial back your effort at work as you think about making a change. Identify skills or knowledge you don’t have — and find people to fill those gaps. For example, if you are a writer (but not a numbers person), you can get assistance with bookkeeping and tax preparation. Never owned a business? Find a mentor or business coach. Be mindful of your finances. If you decide to take a pay cut as part of your career reinvention, consider that carefully in light of your overall financial goals. Remember, a pay cut isn’t always needed to improve your work/life balance. For example: Many consultants are able to make more with self-employment (even considering expenses, taxes, and saving for retirement yourself) than when they worked for someone else. Step Five: Make Room for Personal Growth |
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