Interviewing? Your answer to this question should wow them!
What do you know about our company? It’s a common question that potential employers ask, especially in job interviews. They ask it for a variety of reasons. Some employers want to make sure you have an adequate understanding of the company within the context of the position to which you are applying. Others ask it to see if you’ve done your research. And there are some employers that ask it to see how much you care about obtaining the position in question, as your answer will speak volumes about the effort you are putting forth to secure the job and illustrate how you are a fit. As a former recruiter, I can tell you that many candidates fell short of my expectations when answering this question. Based on my experience, I feel it’s important to share (in my opinion) the worst answers you can give, a better option, and a great answer that will set you apart from the other candidates. read more
Are you a college student? If so, you need these people in your network!
A strong professional network can boost your career in many ways. It allows you to gain important information, connect with key contacts, and share material that will both help others and showcase your professional prowess. That’s why it’s important to start building your network as soon as possible, especially while you’re in college. Most people understand they should seek out seasoned professionals as network contacts, but did you know diversity within your network can provide new perspectives that will allow you to expand your knowledge and identify valuable skills that can enhance your career? To make the most of your network, make sure it includes the following contacts. read more
Safety tips for networking meetings.
An important part of career strategy is networking, which is connecting with people to share information relevant to a certain topic, professional industry, or career field. While it’s great to make an effort to connect with others, you must do so in a safe way. Even if you have some familiarity with a new network contact, keep in mind that your experience with that person is limited and you may not be familiar with his/her character. With some planning, you can avoid a situation where you fear for your physical safety or feel uncomfortable given a certain conversation. The following are ways that you can network professionally in a safe and effective way. read more
Have you identified your career super power?
A job search can be tough, and it’s much more like a marathon than a sprint. It’s important for job seekers to understand this in that it will allow them to make the most of opportunities that arise along the journey. While it’s important to create great jobs search tools (such as a resume, cover letter, elevator pitch, LinkedIn profile, etc.) and build an effective job search strategy, one element could hold the key to success. It’s your career super power! Have you identified yours? read more
Boost your LinkedIn profile in just five minutes!
LinkedIn, a professional networking platform, is a valuable tool that you should be using as part of your career strategy. Most people familiar with LinkedIn are aware of the need to create a profile and connect with other professionals, as networking is at the core of LinkedIn’s functionality. However, there are other elements that are critical to creating and implementing a successful LinkedIn presence. Investing five minutes right now to make sure you are making the most of LinkedIn will pay dividends in terms of your ability to leverage the platform for your professional gain. To do so, you will need to promote your brand effectively, create an impactful headline, and boost your credibility. read more
A simple thank you can help you stand out!
A secret weapon for job search and professional development isn’t so secret; it’s the thank you note! As fast as life moves these days in the digital age, a simple thing like saying thank you can help you stand out. For your thank you to be received in a positive way, make sure it’s timely, customized, and sincere. read more
Three types of cover letters to avoid!
A cover letter is widely accepted as part of the official application process for a job. The overall purpose of a cover letter is to formally submit your candidacy for a position in writing and highlight your qualifications. Do employers read them? Some do, but some do not. Regardless, if an application requires a cover letter, you must submit one. That said, there are a few types of cover letters that you should avoid. read more
Three things you can do to enhance your career in one week.
A one-week career initiative can lead to new and exciting opportunities. How can you make an impact in just one week? It’s all about assessment, connection, and building your critical assets. read more
Resolutions for the new year that will help your career!
How do you create and achieve effective new year’s resolutions? That’s the million-dollar question that many people ponder as one year comes to a close and another approaches. It’s natural to look forward with anticipation, but also possibly trepidation. One aspect of life that can come under scrutiny is your career. Whether you are looking for a job for the first time, want a change, or are satisfied in your current role, there are opportunities to create new year’s resolutions that can boost your career. So regardless of your career status, read on to learn how resolutions related to your key career tools, network, and LinkedIn can enhance your career as you look to 2018. read more
How you can stand out (in a positive way) at a career fair?
A career fair brings job seekers and employers together in a forum to connect, although they do so for different reasons. Employers participate to promote their companies/organizations, screen potential employees, and identify viable candidates. Job seekers participate to learn more about companies/organizations, promote themselves as candidates, and make valuable professional connections. Although career fairs feature competition for both employers who are seeking great candidates and candidates who are trying to land jobs, in many cases job seekers feel more pressure when attending these events. It’s important for a candidate to make a good impression, as an employer will use the exchange to make an initial hiring decision. How can you stand out, in a positive way, at a career fair? read more