Transforming Productivity and Job LandscapeThe workplace is witnessing a growing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), offering immense potential to revolutionize our work methods and enhance productivity at work. Let's explore some key ways in which AI is influencing the workplace: One significant impact of AI is its ability to automate routine and repetitive tasks, empowering employees to redirect their efforts towards more intricate and innovative work. This shift allows for increased job satisfaction among workers and paves the way for heightened productivity. Automation and Job DisplacementThe increasing use of automation is a growing concern as it has the potential to displace jobs. As more routine and repetitive tasks are automated, some jobs may become redundant or some industries may decline. This can have significant economic and social implications for workers in specific industries or regions. However, it is essential to note that automation can also create new job opportunities, particularly in areas that require technology and data analysis skills. Everyone is assuming that organizations will be mindful of the potential impact of automation on their workforce and will take steps to reskill and upskill their employees to adapt to the changing job requirements. Hopefully, policymakers will consider measures to support workers affected by job displacements, such as unemployment benefits and job retraining programs. The good news is the responsible use of automation can help employees be more efficient at work while creating new job opportunities and contributing to economic growth.
In conclusion, while automation may displace specific jobs, it also has the potential to create new opportunities and improve overall productivity. Individuals and organizations must adapt and embrace new technologies to stay competitive in the job market. Augmenting Human CapabilitiesAugmenting human capabilities means that human capabilities are being enhanced by artificial intelligence. Augmented intelligence is a branch of machine learning within the domain of AI aimed at improving human intelligence rather than functioning autonomously or entirely replacing it. Its purpose is to enhance human decision-making abilities, leading to better responses and actions. This is accomplished by providing humans with improved decision-making capabilities. The impact of this will be twofold. Firstly, it will stimulate innovation and create more opportunities, expanding horizons for all involved. Secondly, it will elevate the significance of human-to-human interactions, augment human abilities, and ultimately boost individuals' happiness and contentment with life. As humans, we are constantly growing and evolving. No one "has it all figured out so, AI will help you reduce human error in many contexts like driving, the workplace, medicine, etc. Here are some examples of how AI is augmenting human capabilities:
In summary, AI is augmenting human capabilities by providing tools and technologies that enhance decision-making, automate routine tasks, improve accessibility, personalize experiences, enhance learning, provide assistance, and augment creativity. Ethical ConsiderationsAs artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance and become more integrated into our daily lives, it's important to consider the ethical implications that come with this technology. Here are some of the key ethical considerations when it comes to AI:
In conclusion, as AI continues to become more integrated into our lives, it's important to consider the ethical implications of this technology. By addressing issues such as bias, privacy, accountability, transparency, safety, and human autonomy, we can ensure that AI is developed and used in a way that benefits society as a whole. 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. An Essential Tool in Your Job SearchWe celebrate Teacher's Appreciation Week every year during the first full week of May and we recognize the hard work and dedication of educators who go above and beyond to make a difference in our lives. We value the incredible dedication and impact that teachers have on our lives and we teach the children to do the same. For educators seeking new opportunities, a well-crafted teaching resume is an essential tool to showcase their skills and experience. This article provides the key components to include in your teaching resume, ensuring you make a strong impression on potential employers. Clear Career and Summary
Employment History
Scope of Responsibilities
Teaching and Learning Methods
Curriculum Development
Holistic Student Development
Administrative Duties
Assessment Methods
Collaborative Relationships
Student Support and Guidance
Extra-Curricular Activities and Achievements
Notable Achievements
Crafting a comprehensive teaching resume is essential for presenting your qualifications, skills, and achievements to potential employers. By including the suggested components in your resume, you'll have a powerful document that demonstrates your expertise and commitment to shaping young minds. 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. Brag BooksWhy not show and tell in job interviews? A picture is worth 1,000 words. A portfolio, leave-behind, or interview presentation binder - also known as a "brag book" - is a great way for job seekers to prepare and showcase their skills and accomplishments. While portfolios are expected in certain “creative” professions, jobseekers in many more “traditional” fields could benefit from preparing a brag book to use in an interview. Putting together a brag book is also an excellent way to prepare for a job interview, as it can be used to reflect on what knowledge, skills, and abilities will be most relevant for the targeted position. A brag book is also an excellent confidence booster. There’s just something about seeing all of your accomplishments in print that boosts your confidence and self-esteem. A brag book is useful in a job search to:
Posting a portfolio online can help set you apart from other candidates in a competitive job market. You can link to your digital portfolio on your LinkedIn profile as well as provide a link to the portfolio on your résumé. The brag book is primarily designed to be used in the job interview — both to illustrate your qualifications and (possibly) as a leave-behind piece. Developing a customized brag book for use as a leave-behind can be a very effective strategy. It shows you prepared for the interview. A brag book can also be used in your current job — for example, in a performance evaluation meeting or when requesting a raise and/or promotion. Brag books support your qualifications as a candidate. The purpose of the brag book is to substantiate the information contained in your résumé and on your LinkedIn profile. Thus, your résumé and LinkedIn profile are the best place to start when compiling your brag book. What To Put in Your Brag BookHow do you decide what to include in your brag book?
Here are some of the kinds of things you can put in your brag book: Education/Training:
Work-Related Documentation:
Awards and Honors:
Feedback/Testimonials/Endorsements:
Community or Organizational Involvement:
Other Documentation to Include:
How to Create Your Brag BookYou can make an excellent hard copy (physical) brag book for under $30 — but you may decide to invest more, depending on how many pages/sections you include. First, assemble any and all materials you are considering including in your brag book. Start a file of all of the documents that you may possibly want to include. Some tips:
Next, review your materials to prioritize what to include. Create a logical order and structure for your brag book. This can be reverse chronological or by section. Start with your most recent accomplishment and work backwards. Your brag book should be 10-25 pages in length. If it’s more than 20 pages, it should include a table of contents, listing the documents that are included (although you do not have to number the pages). Consider creating sections to make it easy to navigate. If dividing the brag book into sections, use professional divider tabs. You can purchase these in an office supply store. Generally, a 5-tab or 8-tab configuration is sufficient. You can purchase a view binder from an office supply store. Choose the most durable (heavy-duty) option they sell — and opt for the “D” ring style instead of the standard “O” ring. (This makes it easier to turn the pages.) A 1” or 1-1/2” size is sufficient to start. Have a cover made for your portfolio. Title it “Professional Portfolio of [Your Name].” This is easily done on Fiverr.com (www.fiverr.com). For $5, you can have a flat image designed. Search for an eBook cover designer. For a few extra dollars, you can get both a front and back cover, plus a spine design. Purchase clear sheet protectors — the kind you can slip sheets of paper into. Either top-loading or side-loading sleeves will work. Purchase the heaviest (strongest) ones they have — and make sure they will hold 4-5 sheets of paper. (You will include multiple copies of each page in one sheet protector, so you can give a copy to the interviewer — at their request.) Have color laser prints/copies made of your photos and documents — or, if you print them yourself, make sure you choose the highest quality setting on your printer. Color prints are preferable to black-and-white. Do not, under any circumstance, include original documents in your brag book (except for your résumé). This way, if you are asked for your transcript, for example, you’re giving the interviewer a copy (one of several you’ve made), not your only copy (your original). Take the time to “polish” the materials. For example, type a key phrase or phrase from a performance evaluation on a single sheet, listing the name of the supervisor who wrote it and the date of the review. This makes your brag book more “scannable.” Design your pages. Don’t just include a photo — to be sure to put a description of what’s going on in the photo, who is in the photo (identify the scene/setting/participants), and your role. Use captions to explain/highlight the specific skills or experience you are emphasizing (if the item is not self-explanatory). Proofread and edit carefully. Review all the materials in your brag book for typos, spelling, grammar, and formatting issues. Have a friend or family member proofread it too. When possible, tailor your brag book specifically for a desired job. If you use a 3-ring binder with page protector sheets, you can simply insert the pages you want to include for a particular job interview. For example, if the position requires public speaking skills, include a photo of you delivering a presentation to a large crowd. If the position does not require presentation skills, then you could leave that page out. For maximum results, personalize the portfolio — especially if it’s a leave-behind piece. The first page should include some or all of the following information:
A few more tips:
Creating Online Brag BooksAn article published recently by BusinessNewsDaily.com warns: “ Make sure your social media profiles are safe for work, because employers are screening candidates' presence online.” The same article further explains: “In a 2020 survey by The Harris Poll, 70% of the employers who responded said they believe every company should screen candidates’ social media profiles during the hiring process. Moreover, 78% of employers believe that current employees should maintain a work-appropriate social media profile.” A digital portfolio is one way to highlight what hiring managers will find about you online. A digital or online version of a brag book has several advantages. Creating duplicate physical brag books is time intensive and can get expensive. Digital brag books can be copied and customized very easily. They are also easily shared with prospective employers. A digital brag book is also easier to keep updated. Another advantage of a digital brag book is the multimedia capabilities — you can include video, audio files, photos, and document files. One new, innovative way to create a brag book online is to use Pinterest (www.pinterest.com). Because Pinterest is a visual medium, search out images to represent career milestones — for example, a photo of you in a cap and gown with your diploma, and then a close-up of your diploma. Or a photo of you receiving a sales award, and then a scan of the award certificate. Pinterest also allows you to pin videos, so you can include a video of you making a presentation, for example. Do you work with recognizable client companies? Assemble their logos in a collage labeled “Key Clients” or “Strategic Account Management.” You can also create a PowerPoint presentation and save it as a PDF file that you can bring up on an iPad or other tablet device in a job interview. Here’s a PowerPoint presentation example: You can download free, pre-built document templates with useful and creative themes from Office when you click File > New in your Office app. Using a Brag Book in An InterviewBefore using a brag book in an interview, you will need to practice. Incorporate your brag book as part of your natural conversation. Role-play an interview with a friend, colleague, or family member, and practice referring to your brag book to answer questions. At the beginning of the job interview, let the interviewer know you’ve prepared a “portfolio” that illustrates your qualifications and accomplishments. Offer to let him/her review it. If the interviewer declines, set it aside until you need it to illustrate a point or answer a question in the interview. You can offer the brag book again at the conclusion of the interview. In general, you will not want to leave your brag book with the interviewer, unless you are specifically asked to do so. Being asked to leave it is a great sign that the interview went well. However, don’t plan on getting a leave-behind brag book returned. If you don’t get offered the job, you can follow up and request the book back, but don’t be surprised if the interviewer can’t locate it, or says it’s been discarded. This happens. Instead, consider creating a specific leave-behind version of your brag book. You can have a bound book made at your local office supply store. Have your customized cover printed on cardstock, and have the book wire-bound or spiral-bound. If you have not created a specific leave-behind portfolio and you are asked to leave a brag book with the interviewer, immediately start working on creating a replacement book. If you get the original book back, you’ll have a spare. This is also why it’s important not to include original photos or documents in your brag book. Be Ready Building your brag book from scratch will take some time, but you can start small and improve it over time. Keep it updated and when an opportunity presents itself, you’ll be ready to respond. You may also like:
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. Best Colors for ResumeHiring managers don’t see candidates in terms of black and white. Not anymore, anyway. Color is becoming an increasingly important part of résumé design. Color on the résumé shows how to make your resume stand out to human readers. Color can direct the reader’s eye to important information — especially accomplishments. Color Theory and Color PsychologyWhen using color on career documents, it is important to consider both color theory and color psychology. Color theory is the collection of guidelines and principles designers use to communicate with users. In 1666, Sir Isaac Newton defined three groups of colors:
The breakdown of colors is as follows:
Note that colors you see on a screen don’t look the same in print. The RGB color profile consists of red, green, and blue hues that combine to create color variations. This color mode applies exclusively to digital displays (computer monitors, mobile devices, and television screens). However, color elements vary across different computer systems and models, so a RGB color on an iPad may look different than a RGB color on a Surface or a Chromebook. A RGB profile uses an “additive” process to produce color by blending light. The color displayed on your screen depends on the presence or absence of RGB base hues. The presence of all RGB hues at full intensity yields white, while the absence of color produces black. In contrast, print documents are primarily based on a CYMK color profile, which contains cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black) that combine to produce a range of hues. This four-color process works for any type of printer. If you’ve ever taken a magnifying glass to a printout, you can see the four-color dots that layer to create different hues and gradations. As with RGB profiles, a CYMK color profile varies among different styles and models of printers. CYMK uses a “subtractive” color process. As inks and dyes are layered upon each other, they subtract from the white of the paper. (Think of it when you were a kid — when you mixed lots of different paint colors, it created a dark color — sometimes an ugly brown or black. Using fewer colors created a lighter color, an example of the subtractive color process.) Most modern résumés are viewed on screen, so RGB is the primary factor in choosing colors. However, résumés are sometimes printed out, so make sure the résumé still looks appealing in print form. Like font choice, color choice is often a matter of personal preference. Color theory is a fact (the practical application of mixing and matching various hues), while color psychology is a choice. Color psychology is the influence of colors on human mood and behavior. At its most basic, résumé colors should reflect your personality and positioning. You can also apply color psychology to create a positive psychological impact on the résumé reader. Color choices should also consider accessibility — for example, being mindful of red-green color blindness in some readers. While dark text on a light background is almost always readable, white letters on a dark background does still meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility guidelines because it provides sufficient contrast for readability. Reverse text (for example, black text on a blue background) can be an issue when using a low contrast color on a low contrast background, so high contrast is preferred. Text that is larger and has wider character strokes is easier to read; therefore, an 18-point bold font can have lower color contrast than a 12-point serif font. Some hiring managers and recruiters express a strong preference about use — or avoidance — of color on career documents. Color is best for certain industries for sure — among them, design, art, education, advertising, music, and fashion. But even more “traditional” industries are recognizing how effective color and design can be in attracting the reader’s attention. However, some hiring managers like tradition and don’t like to see color anywhere on a résumé. If you are asked by a recruiter to remove the color from your résumé to submit to a specific hiring manager, do a “Save as” of the file and remove it. But for most direct applications with a company, it’s perfectly acceptable to include color, unless otherwise specified. Color psychology is largely impacted by personal preference and perception. However, research has identified some specific characteristics that are often associated with particular colors. For example:
Subtle, jewel tones (navy blue, burgundy, dark green, deep purple) — when used as an accent especially — are appropriate for almost all conservative industries, including legal, finance, engineering, politics, and medicine. Muted, natural tones and pastels are also acceptable. Colors are assigned “meaning” but this can be affected by the age, culture, and gender of the reader. Different parts of the world view some colors very differently. For example, regarding gender preferences, research shows:
Color can be used judiciously to highlight key information on the résumé — such as résumé headings — WORK EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AFFILIATIONS, etc. Color can help the reader find important information. Do and Don'ts with ColorDO consider your personal brand and personality when selecting colors for the résumé. Also consider matching the color on the résumé to the brand colors of the company being applied to. Mirroring company colors shows you have done your homework and changing colors is an easy adjustment to make in Microsoft Word. For example:
When using color on a résumé, DO maximize contrast by using “opposite color” pairs — for example, blue/yellow, blue/orange, navy/gold, and purple/gold. DO add color to the design, not just the content. Include color on design elements such as lines, boxes, and callouts. DO make sure the color works both on the screen and when the résumé is printed out. DON’T use too many colors. A maximum of three colors is recommended — one color for the résumé header and sections, a second color for body text, and an accent color to add emphasis (for example, bullets or subheadings). Black or a dark gray is recommended for main body text. DON’T put a light color on a light or white background. From a technical standpoint, color on the résumé has little bearing on résumés filtered through applicant tracking system software, as long as there is sufficient contrast between the text and background. However, some color choices can reduce readability of the résumé if not carefully considered. DON’T be afraid to stand out. You can’t go wrong using black (and white and gray) on a résumé, but it may keep you from standing out in a crowded field of candidates. Best Practices with ColorIn addition to the dos and don’ts listed above, also consider the following best practices:
“Color is like a spice” — use it to accentuate. Too many colors, not enough contrast between colors, and using bright primary colors are just some of the common mistakes made with color on résumés. 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. Saying "no" to your boss, manager, or supervisor can be daunting. When you accept a job, you commit to following the instructions of those in charge. Nonetheless, it's important to remember that saying "yes" to everything isn't always the best option. There may come a time in your career when saying "no" is necessary to maintain the quality of your work or adhere to your ethical principles. The question is, how do you say no effectively, without risking the loss of your job? Why Saying “No” is ImportantAs employees, we often assume the only response to a manager or supervisor is “yes”. However, there are genuine reasons why you may need to refuse to do something from time to time. Some of the most common reasons to consider saying no include:
How to Say “No” To Your BossThe first step in saying “no” to your boss, or another peer in your organization, is making sure you plan properly. Simply saying “no” without a valid and logical reason (like one of the options above), can make you look unprofessional. When saying no:
Pay attention to how your supervisor responds when you say “no”, as this will help you use the right strategies in the future. You may also like: (https://www.market-connections.net/blog/how-to-give-feedback-to-your-boss) (https://www.market-connections.net/blog/when-the-boss-is-burned-out) (https://www.market-connections.net/blog/easy-ways-to-impress-your-boss) 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. We all want happiness, success, and fulfillment. So, what's standing in the way? It's often a matter of mindset and it is important to have an understanding of the growth mindset definition. Your mindset is how you approach the issues and challenges you face. How you think about these matters affects everything you do, so it's essential to remain positive. With the right mindset, you can rise to any challenge. Here are tips from the experts on shifting your mindset for success. Change the WordingOne way to adopt a better mindset is to reframe the wording of what you think and believe. We all have negative beliefs that hold us back. Sometimes, they manifest themselves as negative self-talk. For example, you might say, "I'm not good enough," or "I can't do this." You can adopt a more positive mindset by reframing them:
Even something like, "I hate my job," can be reframed to, "I'm doing what I need to do now and transitioning to something better." The first step to reframing is to identify your negative thought patterns. Then, pay attention to the voice inside your head and what it tells you. Other ways to discover your negative thoughts are to journal, practice mindfulness, or seek feedback from people who know you well. Challenge Your Limiting BeliefsYou can create an even more lasting effect by challenging your negative thought patterns and demonstrating they're untrue. For example, you can collect evidence that proves otherwise if you feel you may need to overcome imposter syndrome and are not good at what you do. When these negative thoughts appear, you can counteract them with this evidence. Look at results you've gotten before, or seek positive feedback from others. Learn how to use your successes and failures to your advantage. It can also help to review the 7 definitive steps to success. If you feel like you're not successful, it might help to realize that no top performer was born that way. Everyone needed to improve like you're doing now. Improve Your Content MixYou can significantly change your mindset by consuming more empowering content. Find videos, podcasts, and blogs that make you feel inspired. Use content that fires you up and gets you ready to take action. Learn how to stay motivated after a setback. Podcasts are a great way to feel more empowered because you can listen to them while you work, commute, or do things around the house. It's like a voice in your ear inspiring you as you go about your day. For career-related topics, be sure to visit career podcasts. Create a Positive Morning RoutineWhat do you do when you first wake up in the morning? How do you spend the first few hours of the day? The way you spend the morning sets the tone for the whole day. So creating a morning routine that makes you feel positive and energized is an excellent idea. Then, you'll approach everything you do with more positivity. Start by deciding what you'll do when you first wake up. Next, choose activities that will help you feel positive. The keyword here is "positive" not comfortable. If anything, you are to step out of your comfort zone. It's all about how to step out of your comfort zone. Set Goals Setting goals helps you shift your mindset by focusing on positive future outcomes. Using tools to measure your goals will help even more. When you set goals, you create this future for yourself, choosing what you want and don't want. You know what you're working toward when you have clear and specific goals. Staying motivated is more manageable when you have a bad day or experience a setback. You'll realize that one setback doesn't erase all your progress. If you work from home, it becomes even more important to stick to your goals because it's so much easier to slip back into your comfort zone when you are at home every day. Learn how to stay motivated while working from home. Visualize the Future You WantAlong with setting goals, visualization helps you focus on the future you want, which brings positivity into your life today. Choose a time in the future and imagine your life and business in as much detail as possible. Use all your senses to visualize what it would be like. You can practice this visualization daily or whenever you need some positivity. This is a great element to add to your morning routine. Express Daily GratitudeDaily gratitude is extremely powerful in creating a positive mindset and sense of abundance. It makes you appreciate all the good you have in your life. The best way to do this is through a gratitude journal. Sit down every day and write down three things you're grateful for. In addition to positivity, your gratitude journal will make you more resilient, reduce stress, and improve your mental health. After a while, this practice will make you define resilience for yourself in an whole new way. Embrace a Growth MindsetA good "growth mindset definition" is a perspective that sees human beings as capable of change and growth. It differs from a fixed mindset, which says people can't fundamentally change. Developing a growth mindset will give you a more positive way of thinking. There are many ways to do this, but the most impactful is to reorder the way you see challenges and learning. For example, people with a growth mindset see every experience as a chance for growth. This is particularly the case with challenges, failures, and hard times. Instead, it would help if you understood that whether you succeed or fail, you'll come through your trials knowing more than before. Keep a JournalKeeping a journal is a great way to become more positive. Reflecting on your thoughts and feelings makes you more self-aware, so you can quickly identify negative thoughts or self-talk. Then you can develop strategies to change them. Journaling helps your mindset by allowing you to work through problems and brainstorm solutions in writing. You can then develop action plans to make the changes you need. It also provides a way to "talk" and vent your emotions. Creating Positive Success HabitsCreating positive success habits is the best way to shift to a positive mindset. Choose a few from the above or others you may find and create a routine where these strategies become ingrained in your everyday life. With increased positivity, you'll find it easier to get things done and keep negativity and stress at bay. 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. What is Growth MindsetDo you believe that your abilities, intelligence, and talents are fixed traits that cannot be changed or developed? Or do you see yourself as someone who can continuously grow and develop your skills and abilities through effort and persistence? These questions lie at the heart of growth mindset definition. Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, the term "growth mindset" refers to the belief that one's potential is not fixed, but can be developed through dedication, hard work, and resilience. In contrast, a fixed mindset assumes that abilities and intelligence are predetermined and cannot be changed. In this blog post, we will explore the definition of growth mindset in more detail, examining its definition and characteristics. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply someone interested in personal development, understanding the principles of growth mindset can help you to shift your mindset easily, achieve your goals, overcome obstacles, and lead a more fulfilling life. So, let's dive in and explore the power of growth mindset! Five Growth Mindset Definitions
Addressing Core Limiting BeliefsLimiting beliefs are beliefs you hold that keep you from doing what you want to do. The human mind has an amazing ability to come up with infinite reasons why you can’t do something. There is a good chance you have limiting beliefs stopping you right now and you don’t even realize it. Limiting beliefs come in a variety of shapes and forms. They might be thoughts like:
It could be any negative recurring thought that stops you. Regardless of what the specific thought it, this type of negative thinking will hold you back from achieving your goals. To eliminate them, you first need to identify and address them.
Is It Time to Shift Your MindsetIf you are experiencing low energy, or are not in good spirits, you may want to consider altering your mindset. When you are down, it can be due to negative thoughts. Perhaps you start to dwell on everything that is going wrong. You may assume that you aren’t where you thought you would be and it leaves you longing for fulfillment. When you start to have negative thoughts, you are setting the stage to beat yourself down. What’s worse is this situation continues to grow. Negativity feeds on itself. When you put yourself down, you will eventually put others down. You will look for others who share your negativity because misery loves company. As the negative energy thrives, you fall deeper into the mental abyss. To turn this around, you first have to realize that it’s happening. No one likes to admit to doing something wrong, but negative thinking is wrong if you are engaging in it. You have to try and reflect on your life. Think back to when you were happy. Was it a couple of months ago or a couple of years? That will give you a good indication of when you started with the negative thinking. When you were happy, it’s unlikely you were thinking negatively. Once you have identified that you have a negative mindset, work hard to introduce positivity into your life. Set up a bad thoughts money jar and whenever you say something negative, put money into the jar. You can do this at work, at home, or both. When you see the jar filling up, you know you have more work to do. Avoid other negative people as much as possible. They will try to bring you back down, and you may even let them do it. Limiting your exposure to these people is a great step to take on your journey towards positivity. SOURCE: 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 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.” You will see “Settings” on the left side of the page. Click on “Visibiliy” listed under "Settings". 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". 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.” 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“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 GrowthIn many cases, career reinvention is about balancing personal and professional growth. To continue moving forward, it’s important to reflect and appreciate all the good things that have happened in your life. Reflect on your successes. Let go of the disappointments. You may have poor self-esteem, a lack of self-confidence, or a negative mindset. Consider professional help for tackling long-unresolved issues or negative patterns in your career. If you’ve been fired from more than two jobs in the last five years, look at the reasons why and see if there is a common issue. Maybe you have unrealistic expectations of your co-workers or bosses, or maybe you’re finding yourself in employment situations that aren’t a good fit for your skills or experience. In step one, we talked about having a growth mindset. Your professional growth will benefit from improving your overall knowledge. Keep your brain sharp by committing to creativity, self-development, and constant learning. Exercise your brain and your body. Engage in activities related to organization, memorization, and decision-making (learning a new language ticks all three boxes!). Other activities to consider include:
10 Actions For Career ReinventionWith these five steps in mind, it’s time to take action. These 10 actions will help move you forward towards your goal of career reinvention.
“You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis There is no better time than right now to start your career reinvention. 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. Outplacement Services Near Me: A Comprehensive Guide for Employers and EmployeesIf you've recently lost your job or are an employer needing to lay off employees, you might have heard about outplacement services. But what exactly are outplacement services, and how can they benefit you? In this post, we'll take a closer look at outplacement services, how they work, and why they're essential for both employers and employees. What are Outplacement Services?Outplacement services are a type of career transition service designed to help employees who have been laid off or terminated find new employment. These services are typically provided by third-party companies that specialize in job search assistance, resume writing, interview coaching, and career counseling. The goal of outplacement services is to help employees find new jobs as quickly as possible and make the transition from one job to the next as smooth as possible. How Outplacement Services WorkIf your employer offers outplacement services, you'll typically be given access to a variety of resources and tools to help you find a new job. These might include job search websites, resume writing services, career coaching, and job search workshops. Your outplacement provider will work with you to create a personalized job search plan tailored to your skills, experience, and career goals. If you're an employer, you'll typically work with an outplacement provider to create a customized program for your employees. Your provider will work with your employees to help them navigate the job market and find new employment opportunities. This can include one-on-one career coaching, group workshops, resume writing services, and job search tools. Benefits of Outplacement Services for EmployeesIf you've been laid off or terminated, outplacement services can be an invaluable resource. Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect:
Benefits of Outplacement Services for EmployersIf you're an employer, offering outplacement services can benefit both your company and your employees. Here are just a few of the benefits:
Outplacement Services Near MeIf you're looking for outplacement services near you, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to do your research and find an outplacement provider who has experience working with employees in your industry. You'll also want to look for providers who offer a range of services, including resume package deals, professional LinkedIn profile writing , job interview coaching, career coaching, and other related services. One Outplacement Call can resolve many complications. You can start your search for outplacement services near you by doing a quick online search. Use keywords like "outplacement services near me" or "career transition services near me" to find local providers. You can also check with your HR Department to see if they have any recommendations. ConclusionOutplacement services can provide support for both employers and employees during a layoff or termination. These services can help employers to manage the process of letting employees go, while still showing support and compassion for their staff. For employees, outplacement services can provide practical and emotional support during a difficult time, helping them to find new employment and cope with the stress of a job loss. By offering outplacement services, employers can protect their reputation, support their employees, and help ease the transition into new employment. 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. |
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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. Archives
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