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#CareerAdvice : #ResumeTips – #Recruiters Nightmares: The Copy and Paste Resume

July 30, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

“I was told to copy the job description online to ensure key words were in my resume …” is something I often hear from resume clients. Job seekers copy and paste ‘everything’ from the online announcement but can’t understand why they are ignored. Copying and pasting a job description won’t help.

When recruiters see ‘copy & paste’ resumes, they recognize and reject the resume. Recruiters want to read applicant job accomplishments, task capabilities, and achievements … written uniquely to a job seeker’s specific background, skills, and experience.

Job seekers can analyze the important words from an open position announcement by scrutinizing the job requisition for general and specific requirements sections. Ignore the benefits and company description. Target the ‘must have’ qualifications for clues to key words recruiters are seeking. For example, the job requisition “Budget Analyst” (posted on usajobs.gov) notes:

Assist in work to be accomplished; communicate assignments, problems to be solved, issues, and deadlines.
Coach team in selection and application of appropriate problem solving methods and techniques; resolve employees complaints.
Maintain program and administrative reference materials, project files / relevant documents; prepare reports; maintain records of accomplishments / administrative information.
Represent the team for the purpose of obtaining resources; securing needed information or decisions from the supervisor on major work problems / issues.
Represent team findings and recommendations in meetings; deal with issues that have an impact on the team’s objectives, work products and/or tasks.
Research a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods to identify, assess, analyze and improve team effectiveness, efficiency and work products.

This description is in the generalized job section. “Assisted in work” could equate to a team member assigned specific workload assignments to research, analyze, identify, and implement solutions to problems, methods, and technical issues. “Represent the team” can be interpreted as presenting reports on specific topics to a group. “Maintain program and administrative reference materials” could equate to a document-database librarian or database maintenance tech with software skills, and alphabetical- and numeric-filing capabilities, and ability to recognize documents ‘classes.’ “Prepare reports and maintain records” of work accomplishments equates to filing documents in a manual or in digital format (e.g., create electronic files on a server or SharePoint website in a logical organized manner.

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What Skill Sets do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

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“Research qualitative and quantitative” equates to an ability to ask questions, perform statistical analysis, and possibly conduct Lean Six Sigma studies or process improvements to work tasking, production (lowered man-hours), recommending automation processes for work-task processing, and improving customer service timing and services. “Resolve simple complaints” could equate to ‘being a people person’ (please don’t use that cliché’ term!) able to provide diplomatic work-place resolutions fair to all parties.

What is missing in this ‘general’ job description? Anything related to financials, accounts receivables or accounts payables, budget oversight, monetary or financial analysis. Now review the ‘must have’ job description details:

“Knowledge of budget concepts, process, financial coding structure and the interrelationships among appropriations; interpret budgetary aspects of laws, regulations, policies, procedures and provide guidance; interpret / apply budget instructions, administrative memoranda, and regulatory guidelines from procedural, technical standpoint; analyze and relate financial data to work plans, business plans, Strategic Plans, and organizational accomplishments” notes specific key words the job applicant must ensure is describing past and current experience in their resume to catch the eye of the recruiter.

Target the mandated job skill requirements and write about tasks accomplished related directly to that experience using the key words. “Knowledge of budget concepts, process, financial coding structure and the interrelationships among appropriations” means describe the accounting system (name brand software) and the line item coding, accounts receivables / accounts payable, budget appropriations (funding) and funding designations (to / from business units) and obtaining approvals for expenditures.

The section noting: “interpret budgetary aspects of laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and provide guidance” means detailing knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP), and experience as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on Internal Revenue Service (IRS) law, regulatory compliance (including Sarbanes-Oxley; SOX), and internal company policies and procedures related to taxes, budgeting, finances, and accounting to advise peers and management. The ability to “analyze and relate financial data to work plans, business plans, Strategic Plans …” means data research, analysis, auditing, and compiling reports to share in group presentations.

The remainder of the job description is more ‘generic’ capabilities. The ability to “communicate orally and in writing; make presentations clearly; manage time, balance priorities, and work under tight timeframes and conditions; use of computer for word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, and communications programs; use of analytical and problem-solving techniques; use of automated financial systems” can easily be interpreted as strong work capabilities that are discussed in the same bullets explaining specific skill requirements.

Copying and pasted the original job description won’t help job seekers. Describe ‘how’ a specific task or responsibility matches the job description’s mandatory experience requirements to showcase an ability to interpret, analyze, and write to satisfy the recruiter’s need for documented capabilities. Recruiters can read between the lines for skills, experience, and education via those key words describing experience.

Guest Author of the FSC Career Blog: Dawn Boyer, Ph.D., owner of D. Boyer Consulting – provides resume writing, and editing / publishing / print-on-demand consulting. Reach her at: Dawn.Boyer@me.com or visit her website at www.dboyerconsulting.com.

FSC Career Blog | July 30, 2019

Number of words, including title and POC info: ~871

Sent to: Inside Business, Virginian Pilot, Ron Crow via ron.crow@insidebiz.com

SEO Key Words for web post:

ability, accomplished, accomplishments, achievements, analysis, capabilities, Copy and Paste Resume, experience, improvements, interpret, Job description, job requisition, key words, position announcement, processes, qualifications, recruiter, requirements, resources, resume, skills, solutions, Subject Matter Expert (SME), tasks

Key Word Hash-Tags (#):

ability, #accomplished, #accomplishments, #achievements, #analysis, #capabilities, #CopyandPasteResume, #experience, #improvements, #interpret, #Jobdescription, #jobrequisition, #keywords, #positionannouncement, #processes, #qualifications, #recruiter, #requirements, #resources, #resume, #skills, #solutions, #SubjectMatterExpert(SME), #tasks

Bio: Dawn D. Boyer, Ph.D., has been an entrepreneur and business owner 20+ years, with a successful business in Richmond, and in her own consulting firm (CEO) in Virginia Beach, VA. Her background experience is 24+ years in the Human Resources field, of which 12+ years are within the Federal & Defense Contracting industry. She is the author of 750+ books on the topics of business, human resources research, career search practice, women and gender

#CareerAdvice : #JobInterview – #VideoJobInterviews : 10 Ways To Shine.

July 30, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

Job interviews are increasingly being done by video. Sometimes, it’s because applicants and interviewers are in different cities. Other times, it’s because employers find video interviews an efficient way to “meet” multiple candidates. In certain cases, job seekers film answers to questions and the hiring managers can watch anytime. If you’ve never sought a job this way, however, you may be a little nervous.

Unlike a face-to-face interview, you need to deal with video software. Recording yourself talking into the air can be disconcerting. Even when you’re doing a video with an interviewer, there’s little chance for interpersonal chemistry. I spend time on the low-tech end of preparing professionals for video interviews and can promise that virtually everyone faces virtual challenges.

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What Skill Sets do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

Continue of article:The secret to overcoming them is to change your job-prep priorities. When you have an upcoming video interview, the key is to spend time in advance, so you’ll be ready to put your best face forward. Here are 10 ways to do it:

10 Tips for Video Job Interviews

1. Understand the type of video interview you’ll be doing. “Live” interviews are ones where you talk with, and see, a person on the other end of the connection. They’re often conducted on Skype, Google Hangout or similar applications. For a video you’ll record answering questions you’ve been given by the employer, expect to be asked to use a site like HireVue or SparkHire. Find out in advance who the video-interview tech person is at the employer and how to contact him or her, in case you run into technical difficulties either on the employer’s end or on yours.

2. Don’t prepare at the last minute. To steal some entertainment industry vernacular, you’ll want to build in some “pre-production” time before the video interview session. Download any software you need and test it. I’ve seen many job candidates think that because they have the software loaded on their smart phone, tablet or computer, they’re set to go. But there could be a glitch with the software which they won’t know until the interview is ready to start.

3. Plan your attire. Even though you’ll probably be sitting down during the job interview, you may need to stand up (if you need to retrieve something during the interview, for instance). So, don’t dress too casually below the waist. And, of course, make sure you present yourself above the waist as you would on an in-person job interview.

4. Be aware of body language and facial expressions. You do this during in-person discussions, of course, but it’s even more important on video, because the interviewer is constantly looking at you. On video, there’s a fine line between maintaining eye contact and staring an interviewer down as if you’re in a fight club. Smiling is great, but don’t come off as too jubilant. As corny as it sounds, practice a few expressions in the mirror.

5. Arrive early for a video interview you’ll do from home. You may be tempted to use the minutes leading up to the interview to let the dog out, grab the laundry out of the dryer or write a quick email to someone. Don’t. Sign on at least five to 10 minutes before your actual time and stay ready to begin.

6. If you’ll be doing the video interview at home, use a device you’re comfortable with. I spent time with one job-seeking manager who couldn’t understand why his Skype wasn’t working. I soon realized he was trying to use a just-downloaded application on his smart phone. When he switched to the Skype he’d been using on his laptop, he had no problem. Go with what you know.

7. For a home-based interview, test the software. After you’ve installed it, opened it and are sure you are registered, do a practice video call with a friend or relative. If your interview will be live, use the application (such as Skype) designated by the employer. If you will use a service with pre-recorded questions, go to that site, read the instructions and watch sample videos such as the one on HireVue (which is really great for a chuckle, too). Don’t forget to ensure that your internet connection is secure, not spotty.

8. Consider the background for a video at home. You may look your personal best, but make sure the interviewer won’t see stacks of laundry or your unmade bed in the background. Eliminate anything unkempt or distracting, such as a giant family portrait. When you test your Skype or other application, ask the person helping you to tell you what he or she sees in the background. And do a few mock answers to get your helper’s honest appraisal of how you’re coming off.

9. Limit distractions for home-based video interviews. Some interruptions are unavoidable — an earthquake (it happened to me once during a video interview), a doorbell ringing or a garbage truck rolling by outside. There are measures you can take to minimize them, though. Turn the ringer off on your phone (and don’t check your phone during the interview!), banish the dog to a different room and keep the windows closed. If kids or even other adults will be in the house during the interview, tell them in advance that the area where you’ll be is off limits.

10. Keep a glass of water next to you when doing a video interview from home. That’s the ideal “prop” if you need to take a few seconds to collect your thoughts. Excuse yourself, reach over, take a quick sip and set the glass down carefully. Don’t substitute coffee, tea or a different beverage. If you spill, you want to make sure you can get on track easily, not scream in agony due to a burn or despair because of a major stain.

Author: Next Avenue

America is in the midst of an age boom and with it, an amazing transition. In general, those over the age of 50 are expected to live longer than any previous generation….

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Next Avenue is public media’s national journalism service for America’s booming 50+ population. Part of the PBS system, Next Avenue’s daily content delivers vital ideas,…

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#Leadership : #YourCareer – 3.5 Warning Signs Of A #BullyBoss And How To React.

July 30, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

In my years as a leader, executive and top business coach, I’ve asked countless individuals to tell me about the best boss they’ve ever had and sure enough, their eyes always light up. Further, I regularly coach people when working with bad bosses. I teach that we can learn from every boss we ever work with, good or bad. Sadly, the feedback they give on bad bosses is significantly more regular. Many times, people find themselves in a situation with not only a bad boss, but a bully boss with no idea what to do. This article will help.

First, some context on workplace bullying and the bully boss. How bad of a problem is this?

A 2017 study found:

• 60 million Americans are affected by workplace bullying in some fashion

• Of those affected, Bosses comprise 61% of bullies

• When trying to stop bullying, 65% of bullied employees lost their original jobs

Still, there is a perception that the bully boss gets results. Take for example Hall of Fame basketball coach Bobby Knight. He was the winner of three national championships with the Indiana Hoosiers and had a very successful coaching career yet was widely considered as an “angry, foulmouthed, chair-throwing,” head coach. So, does being a bully boss work?

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What Skill Sets do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

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Tough Boss Versus Bully Boss

Tracey Jones, President of Tremendous Leadership, discussed this topic with Forbes, saying: “A tough boss will insist that you work hard and give your best effort and submit high-quality work all the time.” Not to mention they will push you to be the best version of yourself.

In contrast, a bully boss does the opposite. It sometimes isn’t as obvious how they keep you from being your best self, but as Jones said it, they will mislead, humiliate or blame in a negative way. The bully boss prevents you from positive growth professionally and emotionally, though they might not realize it.

Here are the 3.5 simple signs of a bully boss.

1. Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where the boss will make a person question their reality. In other words, they use their position of power to confuse, belittle or more to the point where a person begins to question their own memory of events. Here are five ways to spot gaslighting with a boss (supplied by Psychology Today):

• They tell blatant lies or exaggerations that are in their favor

• They adamantly deny saying things even when you have proof

• They use what is near and dear to you as ammunition

• They confuse you with oddly placed positive reinforcement

• They tell you and others that you are crazy

2. Undermining

The abusive bully boss will often use a public tactic of undermining their employees, both in private and in public, which can cause toxicity throughout the organization. Things to look out for include:

• Aligning peers or even superiors against you

• Talking negatively, and almost gossipy, about you or others openly

• Taking credit for others’ ideas

3. Yelling

Bosses have bad days, like everyone. There is a difference between having a bad day, however, and a consistent reputation as a person who yells. When you have a yeller of a boss so much it is commonplace, people start to adjust their behaviors. For example, regular tantrums can cause people to hold back opinions (even strategic ones), change their communication style (e.g., using email instead of verbal for fear of retaliation), and are in a constant mode of defense.

3.5. Attrition

This can be challenging to quantify because, just like in abusive relationships, people don’t always leave bully bosses. On average, people in abusive personal relationships stay put 57% of them stay for many reasons, including fear of change, society pressures, responsibilities to their children and more. Many of these same reasons apply to abusive bosses. Fear of change, being a quitter and familial responsibilities create immense pressure to stay put and deal with it.

What can you do?

Here are three simple tactics to use if you have a bully boss:

1. Create an emotional buffer zone.

Notice and observe your emotional response to these situations and remember you aren’t obligated to act on them, especially immediately. You’ll learn that in many ways, your emotional responses to the bully boss only makes things worse. Try finding ways to detach from abuse and focus on what you can control. Setting the expectations properly will help your emotional taxation. If you know your boss will fly off the handle ahead of time, the moment will often not be as troubling. Last, know your limits and know when you need to take a break.

2. Create a stress management toolbox.

Just like a carpenter or mechanic wouldn’t show up to a job without the necessary tools, you can’t show up without them as well. Find what stress management techniques work best for you, like walking, yoga, a mid-day run, positive affirmations, writing or even bringing a heavy bag to the office. Groups like Noomii are doing incredible coaching work on psychological safety as a tool.

3. Get even (NOT).

The research shows that you shouldn’t do this. As much as you dream living out your own A Christmas Story-esque fantasy of Ralphie punching out Scut Farkus, it simply won’t work. In countless studies, they’ve demonstrated the payback efforts simply don’t work. Instead of getting even, or endlessly gossiping about it, focus on what you can control and stay positive. Find alternative options to get your frustration out like personal content creation, blogging or more (perhaps it’s time to start that side hustle).

Conclusion

You aren’t alone in this and there is a pathway out. Every single boss you’ve worked for can and will teach you something: Either what behaviors to model or which behaviors to never replicate. Whichever direction you decide to take, stay moving forward. You aren’t a tree and can always improve your situation.

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#CareerAdvice : #FutureTrends – 5 Personality Traits That Will Help You Compete In A Changing Economy. Best Two(2) Min Read!

July 29, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

As a job candidate, you might be checking all the boxes when it comes to the right skills, job experience and day-to-day work, but as it turns out, your personality also plays into your career success. In fact, studies suggest that unique personality traits are directly related to job performance.

“The world of work is changing rapidly. Globalization, automation, the gig economy, among other factors are all contributing not only to the skills required for success but to the personality types that will prosper,” says Ron Mitchell, founder and CEO of Virgil Careers, a talent development and recruiting platform that helps job seekers land and succeed in their dream roles. As a career expert, Ron has helped thousands of students and professional secure jobs, transition careers and advance.

“While we find all types of personalities in the workplace today, there are certain personality traits that position you better (or worse) for advancement in the future world of work,” continues Ron. But which personality traits will help you thrive? Here are just some of the personality traits that are prone for success within the current workplace:

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Adventurousness

Willingness to travel, live abroad and meet people from different backgrounds are all assets in a global economy. Adventurous candidates are more likely to take risks in their careers, choosing less stable but more innovative companies that can really foster their growth. They might also be more willing to develop new skills, enabling them to work cross-functionally.

Assertiveness

Assertive personalities will be successful due to their willingness to pursue innovative solutions. They are more likely to launch initiatives within their companies because of their ability to convince (with stats and information) to support their ideas.

Creativity

Creative personalities will remain competitive and thrive in a global economy. Such employees are more likely to keep pace with ever-changing demands within the workplace and tackle new challenges that they can solve creatively.

Perceptiveness

Perceptive employees will be able to make sense of observations and new information, and apply them to finding solutions. They will also more easily adapt to foreign environments and effectively engage with people from different backgrounds.

Industriousness

Industrious personalities will be the most determined in pursuing access to new information, networks of people and learning opportunities. These employees will continue to enrich themselves professionally, but also contribute to their company’s growth.

Author: Shelcy V. Joseph

I am what you could call a multipotentialite—someone with different passions and interests. I dabble in different things, but at the core of everything I do is creative …

Forbes.com | July 29, 2019

#CareerAdvice : #JobInterview -What Not To Do After A Job Interview.

July 29, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

The waiting period after a job interview can be one of the most stressful times. You’ve done everything in your power, now it’s out of your control. All you can do is wait, try to be patient, and do things to keep yourself on track for success. Just like preparing for and going on a job interview, there are things you should and shouldn’t do.

Here are five of those things you shouldn’t do after an interview.

Don’t replay the interview over and over.

It’s easy to focus on what you didn’t do well in an interview and rehash those scenarios over and over in your head. This is actually a terrible thing to do. Not only does it put you in a negative frame of mind, it’s also a completely inaccurate view of how the interview went. Your interview could have gone spectacularly overall, but focusing on one or two things you could have done better will cause you to feel like the whole thing was a failure.

Analyze the interview once or twice, highlighting both the good points and the negatives. Make notes of what you’d do again in a future interview and give yourself a couple of pointers on what you’d change. After you’ve done those two things, leave it at that. Going over it more will only cause additional and unnecessary stress.

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What Skill Sets do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

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Don’t harass the hiring manager.

Send your thank you message within 24-48 hours of the interview, then don’t reach out again until the date the hiring manager told you they’d be in touch. Unless you have a very urgent question or something major comes up, there’s no reason for you to contact the hiring manager.

Emailing or calling them and asking for a status update or to let them know you’re still very interested will only harm your chances of getting the job. Hiring managers are inundated with messages already, and they told you when you’d be hearing from them, so respect them by honoring that date. Once it’s a few days past that date you can reach out again.

Don’t stop your job search process or quit your job.

Until you have a signed contract, nothing is official. While you may have given the best interview of your life and the hiring manager was gushing over you, there’s still no guarantee the job is yours. You don’t know if another candidate could come in and be an even bet fit for the role, the job could go to someone internally, or a whole myriad of factors could be at play. Until you have that contract in your hands, keep working at your current job and continue your job search efforts.

Don’t post anything about the interview on social media.

It can be tempting to brag about a great interview or to post about how you’re excited for the opportunity and then tag the company or the hiring manager. You don’t know what the company’s social media policy is, so by posting you might actually be violating their standards unknowingly. Play it safe and keep your thoughts private, and brag to your friends and family offline.

Don’t ghost the hiring manager.

If you’ve decided to accept another job offer or if you’ve decided you don’t actually want this job for any reason, send an email to the hiring manager to let them know. Thank them for their time and the opportunity then explain that you’ve chosen to pursue another opportunity. They will be incredibly appreciative of this and they’ll certainly remember your actions. The business world is smaller than you think, so it’s very possible that you’ll cross paths again at some point, so don’t risk burning bridges.

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Author: Ashira Prossack

Ashira is a Millennial and Gen Z Engagement expert helping organizations manage, engage, attract, and retain the next generation of talent and bridge the gap between ge

…

Forbes.com | July 29, 2019

#CareerAdvice : #JobInterview -Most Job Seekers Fail To Prep For This Common #InterviewQuestion .

July 28, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

One of the easiest ways to increase positive outcomes when interviewing for a job is to prepare. If you tend to get nervous during an interview, investing time on factors within your control like your outfit, transportation, and responses to common questions can make a world of difference.

An often overlooked area of preparation is what questions you’ll ask the interviewers. This can be a “make or break” part of the interview, and I have seen things turn around both ways (in favor of or against a candidate) depending on how they respond to this inquiry: “Do you have any questions for us?”

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Here’s how to make sure you impress right up through the final moments of the interview:

“No” is never an acceptable answer (so prepare more questions than you’ll need). When done well, interviews are conversational, with back and forth dialogue. This means, many of your questions may get answered in the course of the discussion. Even if this happens, you’ll still want to have 2 – 3 questions at the ready. In this situation, try: “This conversation has been incredibly helpful in understanding how the strategy team partners with various stakeholders throughout the company and the top priorities for the coming year. Can you share what makes you proud to work at this company and one thing you’d change?”
Use questions to the maximum benefit. Even when gathering information in the Q&A, you still have an opportunity to clarify your fit, reiterate strengths and show your interest. Ensure your questions are insightful, show curiosity and demonstrate knowledge of the role, industry and company to the extent possible. In this situation, try: “I’m excited that my fluency in Portuguese and connections in Brazil will be valuable when you expand in that region. Can you share more about the timeline and how you envision the acquisition impacting reporting lines?”
Have the right questions for the right people. Don’t ask the entry-level Recruiter what a “day in the life” of a Senior Programmer is. While he/she can speculate, you’ll get a more thorough response from someone on the Technology Team. Similarly, very specific benefits questions may be best directed to Human Resources. Of course, there’s gray area, but a major part of the interview is building relationships, and people feel good when they’re able to confidently answer your questions. Try: “In your role, I suspect you have an insider perspective on [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][insert specific topic here]. Can you share [your insights on…]?” or“Can you share how your role collaborates with the rest of the project team?”
Ask questions as if you’re already in the role. Pretend you are hired and this is your first week. What questions might be on your mind? These tend to be great questions to ask in the interview because they’re more strategic in nature and show you’ve done your homework. Ask, “What does a successful first year look like on this team?” or “What’s the company’s biggest obstacle to success this year, and how will I be able to help overcome it in this role?”
Save self-interest questions. While it may be important to understand how frequently you’ll be paid or if you can leave early on Thursdays to attend class, these questions do not make the best first impression since they’re focused on your interests versus the hiring manager’s focus. It’s likely you’ll get a sense of some of your tactical concerns by observing the culture and interacting with potential future colleagues. If not, unless it’s a major constraint or deal breaker, save these questions until the offer stage. In the meantime, try: “What do employees comment on most about the culture here?” or “If I were a friend, what’s one thing you would tell me about working here that I wouldn’t know until I started?
Uncover red flags. If a hiring process is moving very quickly or the interviewer is trying to sell you rather than get to know you, slow down and proceed with caution. In this situation, try, “Why is the position is open?” or “What was the deciding factor in the decision to interview me today and why do you think I’ll be a good fit?”
Get what you need. In order to make a decision about fit for yourself, ask questions that help you understand core responsibilities, reporting structures, performance expectations and evaluation process, and future career paths. Some of this will be in the job description or come through in general interview conversation. However, if something hasn’t been covered in enough detail, ask the interviewer to explain or request to meet with additional people on the team. Interviews should be a two-way process where both parties are interested in making a smart choice for the long-term.
Be respectful of time. Chances are, the hiring manager will save about 15 to 20 minutes for questions at the end of an interview. They have a schedule to keep, so while you may have several questions, you may not always be able to ask all of them in the first interview. If you’re unsure if you’re overstepping on time, try: “I have several more questions I’d like to ask, but want to be respectful of your schedule. Do you have time for a few more?”
Ask the key question: The key question is some version of “Is there anything that concerns you about my ability to succeed in this role?”Asking this gives you an opportunity to erase any doubt the interviewer may have about hiring you. For example, she may respond, “I’m concerned this will be a long commute for you.” This gives you a chance to eliminate the issue: “Actually, my sister lives near here, so I’m out this way frequently.”
Close strong. It’s not unusual for the interviewer to give you a final wrap up question like, “Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?” This is a fantastic opportunity to briefly recap your relevant strengths and reiterate your interest in moving forward. Yes, it’s important to relay that you want the job. Also, don’t forget to ask about next steps before leaving so you have a sense of when you can expect to hear from them, and get business cards in preparation to send thank you emails.

Most interviews end with the opportunity for candidates to ask questions. While you may feel a sigh of relief that the hardest part of the interview is over, don’t relax just yet. Use these final moments to leave a strong impression with the interviewer that confirms you are the best person for the job!

Happy hunting!

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Dawn: Dawn Graham

I started my corporate career as a recruiter, and over the past two decades have been helping job seekers attain great roles from the “other side of the desk” as a caree…

Forbes.com | July 27, 2019

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#CareerAdvice : #CareerChange – A New Study Concludes That It Literally Pays To Switch Jobs Right Now. A MUst REad!

July 27, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

It literally pays to switch jobs. A new study, conducted by payroll giant ADP, reports that employees who accept a new job at another company receive more money than their former peers who remain. The higher premiums currently being offered indicate that the record-high level of employment and robust economy continues to grow. To attract top talent in this hot market, companies are starting to recognize that they need to pay a premium.

According to an analysis of the data by Bloomberg, the biggest beneficiaries are job hoppers in the information industry who realized 9.7% annual wage growth, construction workers with an 8.7% increase and professional and business services with an 8.3% premium. Those who stayed at their companies earned about a 4% increase in pay. On average, those who choose to switch jobs enjoyed compensation growth of 5.3%. The only large groups that suffered from falling wages—when changing jobs—were in the leisure and hospitality sectors. Small businesses are suffering, as they are not able to financially compete with salaries offered by their bigger adversaries in the war for talent.

Separately, data produced by The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Wage Growth Tracker, which includes both the public and private sector, arrived at the same results as ADP. The study reveals that job switchers’ income jumped 4.5%, the second-best pace of the 10-year economic expansion.

Sources: Current Population Survey, Bureau of Labor Statistics and author’s calculations

FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF ATLANTA

Anecdotally, in my recruiting practice—placing professionals on Wall Street and in financial services over the last 20 years—I’ve seen firsthand increases of 10% to 20% on average for people who’ve switched jobs. The spread is due to the hotness or coldness of the market at a particular time period, supply and demand imbalance of candidates and other factors. With these large margins, it was highly attractive for people to jump ship.

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Many moved a number of times. Let’s say there was a person earning $100k and then received a $120k offer. A year later, she could embark upon another job search and request around $150k. Meanwhile, those who stayed put had what we recruiters refer to as the “loyalty discount.” The woman who maybe five years later—after several moves—earns over $150k (plus bonus), whereas her former peers earned about an average 3% in yearly raises, which places them at about $115k.

Forward-thinking companies, such as Amazon, have enacted plans to retain top talent. This month, Amazon announced a $700 million retraining programto build “pathways to careers” for its employees. The training programs will focus on fast-growing areas, such as healthcare, machine learning, manufacturing, robotics, computer science and cloud computing. The company contends that this initiative will keep people from leaving, as they will learn new skills and grow within the organization and earn more money in the long run.

I’ve also encountered many people who elected not to switch jobs, knowing that they’ll earn far less than their colleagues who move on. They claim that it’s not worth the risk of entering the unknown, having to prove themselves all over again and stress over embarking upon a new job search. They also claim that their company, similar to Amazon, will try to help them grow within the firm.

While employees rationalize remaining, the evidence strongly signals that it’s financially rewarding to switch jobs at this time.

Author: Jack Kelly

I am a CEO, founder, and executive recruiter at one of the oldest and largest global search firms in my area of expertise, and have personally placed thousands of profes…

Forbes.com | July 26, 2019

#CareerAdvice : #YourCareer -5 Career Paths That Are Perfect For #Introverts . Great Two(2) Min REad!

July 25, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

You walk into a networking event, or a team meeting and head straight to the back row. From here, you can observe everything uninterrupted. And when called upon, you cringe inside before you smile and speak.

If this sounds close to home, you are likely introverted.

Introverts makeup 16-50% of the population and find energy from being alone. You consider yourself more of a wallflower than a social butterfly.

And hey, that is okay!

You have a set of skills that are quite unique and can be used well in certain industries. You are likely independent, creative, a good listener and have a strong ability to stay focused. On top of that, introverts brains are wired differently and have a lower threshold for dopamine, this means, it takes less stimulation to feel a sense of reward, joy and euphoria.

But in the working world where collaboration and open office environments are on the rise, you likely struggle to find a role that fits for you. Here are five career paths to consider when on the hunt for an introvert-friendly job.

1. Lab Technician

With strong attention to detail and open-mindedness, introverts make great detectives. If you prefer the behind the scenes action, a forensic science technician is a good career to investigate…no pun intended.

You collect and analyze evidence in a laboratory setting and on occasion may travel based on the crime. This job does require a bachelors in a science related field but will be well worth it if you enjoy the daily tasks.

If going back to school isn’t in the stars for you, a lab technician is a great fit. You will stay behind the scenes in work to diagnose patients and the majority of your day will be spent in a lab environment running tests on samples.

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2. Creative Artist

Do you have an eye for photography, an ear for music or knack at crafting? You can capitalize on these creative skill sets and build out your own business. The options here are quite broad, as you can work either independently as a freelancer, start your own company or contract your services out to larger organizations.

If you have a creative skill set, begin to search online for jobs that match what you can offer. As a photographer, you can cover anything from stock photos to real estate photography and corporate events. If you enjoy building installations look for events such as store openings, weddings or special events that require a creative eye.

3. Writer

Introverts usually enjoy solitude and time with their thoughts, and a writer will channel these thoughts into a creative storyline. Consider creative writing, ghostwriting or copywriting career paths, all of which lend well to your independent mind and require a great deal of detail and focus.

If you come from a very technical background in a niche field, technical writing may be a great opportunity to break into the writing world. A technical writer will conduct research on a specific area and then produce documentation in the form of manuals or supporting documents for products or services.

You can begin by joining freelance platforms such as UpWork or Copify to offer your writing services for a broad range of clients and from here build out a business of your own.

4. Accountant

Through the use of strong math and organizational skills, an accountant will spend the majority of the day working with numbers, not people. You can work for a corporation or open your own accounting firm where you decide who to work with.

In order to become an accountant, you will need a Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field. If you aim to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) you will need to pass the certification process. This is a strong career choice if you are looking for the long haul since jobs in accounting are projected to grow 10% by 2026, which is more than any other job available.

5. Animal Care Giver or Veterinarian

You might not enjoy spending time with large groups of people, but you may enjoy spending time with animals. An animal care manager or vet will spend the majority of their time working with animals in zoos, shelters, clinics or animal sanctuaries. Here they will diagnose, train and examine animals.

If the thought of student loan debt to become a veterinarian is overwhelming, research states that offer student loan forgiveness for veterinarians, as locations with vet shortages are likely to offer this plan.

Understand your skill sets and seek jobs that cater to what you do best. Once you step into a career that fits your mold you will be surprised to find how quickly you excel.

The next time you cuddle up on the couch when you avoid going out to a loud and rowdy party, check out the TED talk by Susan Cain The Power of Introvertsfor some introverted inspiration.

Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website.

Author: Ashley Stahl

I’m a career coach who helps job seekers via online programs and one-on-one coaching in finding their purpose, landing more job offers and launching their dream business…

Forbes.com | July 21, 2019

#CareerAdvice – #JobSearch – How Not to Choke During your Next High-Stakes #JobInterview . Great REad!

July 23, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

You finally got the interview for that big job or promotion. As it gets closer, you make sure to prepare. It’s a great opportunity, but you’re haunted by one recurring thought: What if you get in there and totally blow it?

“When we are under stress, sometimes things don’t come out the way we thought they would, even though we have practiced, even though we know what we want to say,” says public speaking coach Maryna Shkvorets. “Especially when we’re sitting in front of that person who could determine our fate.”

So, how do you make sure you don’t choke on the big day? We asked career and communications professionals their best advice.

EMBRACE THE WORST-CASE

When you’re heading into a high-stakes interview, it’s likely that you’ve built up a bit of a storyline around it, says executive career coach Amy Sanchez. “For example, ‘If I don’t get this job, the rest of my life will be ruined.’ We tend to go into hyperbole. ‘If I don’t get this job, I’m not going to make it to the next step in my career,’” she says. But that’s usually not the case, and it’s adding to your stress around the interview.

Instead, think through (with an objective friend or mentor, if necessary) what the worst thing that could happen might be. You may really want the job, but when you realize that not getting it won’t be career-ending, it takes some of the pressure off, she says.

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GET COMFORTABLE WITH PAUSES

Pauses in conversation are a powerful tool. “So often we fill the need to fill up dead air by talking, but a well-executed pause can have a bigger impact than packing in more details. A good pause allows your last point to really sink in and gives an air of confidence,” Shkvorets says. And if you’re not used to enduring pauses when someone else speaks, you might be tempted to just ramble to fill the dead air. That rarely makes a good impression, she says.

Get comfortable with pauses by practicing them. Pause for up to five seconds after each point, she suggests. “It may feel like forever, but it comes off very natural to the person on the other side. Plus, it gives you those precious few moments to collect yourself and think of what to say next,” she says.

REMIND THEM WHY THEY WANT YOU

Career coach Melanie L. Denny recommends asking one key question early in the interview: What was it about my application that made you want to meet today? “This sets a positive tone for the interview, reminds the interviewer of why he/she wanted you, gives you ammunition for negotiations later and a boost of confidence,” she says.

Then, throughout the interview, she says it’s a good idea to tell compelling stories of the value you delivered for past employers. Choose the stories that will be most relevant to the challenges you anticipate encountering in the job for which you’re interviewing.

POSITION YOURSELF AS A PROBLEM-SOLVER

Companies hire people to solve problems. Be open-minded and listen, the ask the right questions, says career consultant Lori Scherwin, founder of consultancy Strategize That. “Be strategic. Think: goals of the firm, success factors, leadership development and growth opportunities. Ask your prospective boss their near- and long-term priorities. Position yourself as a partner rather than just an executor.” When you are in a position to provide something someone else needs, it also takes pressure off.

PREP UNDER PRESSURE

You know you need to rehearse. But, don’t just do so in front of a mirror. Try to create some of the pressure you’ll be facing in the actual interview, Shkvorets says. Schedule a session with a few friends or a mentor who can act as the team that will be interviewing you. They should be tough on you and ask the same types of questions the interviewers will ask, she says. That way, when you step into the interview setting, it will feel more familiar.

CREATE A CONNECTION

While you’re doing your homework about the company or position, gather some information about your interviewers, if possible, Denny says. Don’t get too personal—you don’t want to look up their Instagram and comment on their photos, for example. But if you look on LinkedIn and see that you share an alma mater or hometown, that’s fair game, she says.

PREP WISELY

It’s also a good idea to practice some self-care as you get ready for the interview, Sanchez says. “The night before, focus on getting a good night’s sleep—use meditation, a warm bath, or any type of calming exercise to help you wind down,” she adds. Arrive a little early and get ready to shine.

FastCompany.com | July 23, 2019

#CareerAdvice – #YourCareer – 5 Things You Can Do Today To Start Moving Toward A #JobChange . Here are Five Things you can Start Doing Immediately to Steer your Work Life toward Greater Purpose and Meaning.

July 23, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

What do you do when you find yourself unhappy with your job despite being reasonably successful and decently paid? This is certainly a privileged problem, but that doesn’t mean you should leave it unaddressed. Your life is too precious to spend it working bored and detached.

According to Gallup, 70% of American workers rate themselves as “not engaged” or “actively disengaged” at work. And while some of them are in toxic environments with significant reasons to be disgruntled, many more find themselves in decent, reasonable jobs that are misaligned with the work they’d enjoy most.

If this describes you, your nagging dissatisfaction may have you slowly draining energy at work like a leaky balloon. You aren’t just tired, you are thoroughly uninspired.

Perhaps, like me, you are oriented towards safety and security. You have always believed that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” and would prefer to settle for the safe and comfortable career path you’re already on than to shake things up with little certainty around where you truly want to go next.

But here’s a secret: few people ever know exactly what their dreams are or everything they want from their career. Even those experiencing extraordinary success in arenas that are notably hard to break into started out on an uncertain path and simply took one step after another.

So while the “follow your passion” advice is almost certain to overwhelm you with analysis paralysis, taking small actions helps you get going so you can make progress and gain clarity along the way.

Here are five things you can start doing immediately to steer your work life toward greater purpose and meaning. Will these first steps lead to a dramatic career change? Maybe down the road, but that isn’t the point right now. Your only goal for today is to get reenergized about the potential for your work life and head toward something new.

1. Schedule an exploratory call

Reach out to someone in your network that you trust for career advice or know to be plugged into an area of work that interests you. Email them today and ask to set up a call or meeting to touch base in the next few months. This lack of urgency is perfectly fine—just get it scheduled. People are busy and they appreciate flexibility, which also indicates that you genuinely want to connect rather than needing something. Schedule several meetings like this over the next few weeks and use each one to help discern what ideas capture your attention.

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2. Set up Google alerts

If you have more than one passion, you may get confused about which one to pursue next. Take the time, right now, to set up one or several Google alerts that will send you daily relevant articles and updates for the keywords you chose. Start each day learning more about a new and different area.

Read these alerts as often as you can and assess how each piece of new information makes you feel. Do you want to read more or are you starting to get bored again? Did the information spur a new awareness, project or direction? Rarely will your passions spark without provocation; do the work to seek out and trigger fresh motivation.

3. Share a new career interest on social media

Whether you are trying to or not, you are branding yourself and attracting or deflecting new opportunities through your social media use. Be careful to attract the people and things that will help propel you toward what you truly want.

Start by sharing an article or tweeting on a new area of interest. Even if you don’t get an immediate response, by continually sharing content in a new area, you will be rebranding yourself slowly but surely. It is only a matter of time before someone brings you an opportunity to further engage with your topic of interest.

4. Interact with a luminary

Send a direct and well-informed message through email or social media to a thought-leader in a business, industry or company you are feeling drawn to. Comment on a recent project or news story involving them and how it is shaping or impacting your life. You may worry that they might find your message unwanted, but the reality is that most people doing influential work are driven by deeper motivators to help others, so your feedback is welcomed and personally gratifying.

Avoid the megastars (e.g. Oprah Winfrey or Jeff Bezos) and there is a good chance your message may receive a response. But either way, reaching out to people doing work that interests you is the first step to neutralizing your perception that luminaries are special and inaccessible. These people are not any different than you are, they simply have a head start.

5. Embrace the now

You are not stuck in your current job, you are just there presently. Say this out loud right now if you’re alone: Yes for now. “Yes for now” is a mantra to remind yourself that where you are today is perfectly fine, but it is not where you have to stay. Each new moment will present you with a new reality and you are already taking steps today that will lead you to a different tomorrow.

Kourtney Whitehead is a career expert and author of Working Whole. You can learn more about her work at Simply Service.

Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website.

Kourtney Whitehead

I’ve spent my career helping people reach their work goals, from executive searches to counseling to career coaching, through my leadership positions at top executive re…

Forbes.com | July 16, 2019