Of course, there are some do’s and don’ts for both the creation and utilization of your references. Lindsay Olson’s article, “10 Common (and Corrosive) Job Reference Mistakes” provides key considerations. Olson suggests aiming to compile of list of three to five people. After identifying those whom you’d like in that role, consider the following guidelines.
When looking for a job, the kind of environment in which you want to work warrants priority consideration alongside the other important issues like duties, expectations and salary. Just because you are good at what you do doesn’t mean you are going to be happy and/or...
As an adult, it’s often difficult to identify, much less admit to having, a fear. And, it’s even more difficult to see how it might sabotaging your efforts including those involving your job search. The fact is, though, many people wrestle with all kinds of fears when in search of a new job. I’ve highlighted some of the common job hunting fears Marty Nemko identified in his article, “Overcoming Fear of Looking for a Job.” Take a look to see if you can relate to any (or all) of them, then consider the suggestions as to how to reframe such fears to get them out of your way.
It may be because the first interaction is truly a screening interview, or it may be because time and/or logistics prevent an in-person interview from being plausible. No matter the reason, oftentimes, first interviews are conducted over the phone. And, even though you won’t be leaving your home for the discussion, you will still be making your first impression. This point of contact is just as important as any other step in the interview process, so, intentional preparation is prudent. Judith Stock’s article, “6 Steps To Nailing A Job Interview … Over The Phone” offers some great guidance to get you ready.
Breaking the (job search) process down into actionable items not only makes the process feel more manageable, but it keeps you from getting lost in your own thoughts. In his article “11 Reasons You Didn’t Get the Job,” Aaron Gouveia offers a list of top reasons someone may remain unemployed. I turned them around from “don’t do these things” to “do these things well” during your search to create a positive list of action items. They are sure to help keep you focused through some often overlooked details and considerations
Any negotiation can make a person bristle or raise blood pressure. In fact, how many people admit they’ll do anything to avoid having to negotiate, haggle or even ask for anything? And, don’t we tend to sit back in awe of those who seem to have the guts to do it? But, is it really that these people have nerves of steel? Or, are they simply armed in ways others could be but aren’t? This is an important issue when it comes to negotiating a salary. So, when you’re in the position to talk money, make certain you are prepared.
If you’re older than 50 and looking for advice to approach your job search, there are plenty of resources online to get your mental wheels in motion. After reviewing a variety of readings, I found Kerry Hannon’s article, “The 11 Biggest Mistakes Older Job Hunters Make” as having some particular thoughts I think deserve some extra attention. Click here for her full article, but I wanted to list a few of the standouts from it.
Of all times the word networking really hits one’s ear, it is when it is used in conjunction with looking for a job. The word alone tends to evoke an emotional response. Those energized by the idea might enjoy talking with people, but they aren’t necessarily effective networkers. Conversely, those intimidated by the very notion of reaching out can be very successful at it. Instead of approaching networking by taking a deep breath, extending yourself and hoping for the best, make sure you first understand how to implement the process. Paul Bernard offers his thoughts on that very topic in his article, “6 Tips For Networking Success.”