JobDig presents expert tips and advice on all career related issues. Whether you're looking for a new job or ways to improve your current career and life, our career experts have the answers.
5 Tough Interview Questions to Expect
Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:34:16 GMT The most important strategy to remember is to keep your answers positive and honest. To prepare, think about the truthful answer to a question and look at it from the interviewer’s point of view. Ask yourself how the information can be framed so it remains truthful but also validates your professionalism and insight into a situation.read it »
Moving from Manager to Director
Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:31:22 GMT I'm a manager in a large organization and I've been considered for several Director jobs, but have yet to get one. I spoke to my manager about it and in the spirit of helpfulness she finally told me that I had all the technical qualifications and that I was an excellent performer but that I needed to work on my "executive presence."read it »
Changing Industries, 4 Simple Tips to Move Your Career in a New Direction
Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:23:34 GMT Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about changing industries? After all, with long workweeks, job-performance demands and trying to have a personal life too it’s a wonder any professionals find the time to strategically reposition themselves for a more fulfilling opportunity.read it »
Consider Becoming A Change Agent
Mon, 09 Mar 2009 10:28:44 GMT Change is coming. Oh boy is it coming and we aren’t even sure how to handle it! This was the message from IBM latest Global CEO Survey. Over 1000 CEOS from 40 different nations were interviewed. In this article, we want to present youa few key findings that will certainly help you take advantage of future employment opportunities. Failing to heed the warnings from these CEOs could easily leave you lost and all alone, wondering where you company and job have gone. Of course, there’s no need to worry, we’ve got a plan to make you more desirable in such uncertain times.read it »
In Search Of The One
Mon, 02 Mar 2009 09:46:19 GMT Have you ever wondered when your career is going to take off? Or when you will finally get the recognition you deserve for the work you do? Have you ever wondered why some people are able to generate a lot of attention and accolades for their professional achievements while others don’t? I have theory that a successful career is like a jigsaw puzzle: all the pieces should fall into place at once if you have done the following: (A) You have to put yourself in the right place at the right time (right company culture, right career path for your skills and personality, right mentor), (B) you have to figure out how to be a self-promoter without being arrogant, and most importantly (C) you seek out The One.read it »
Changing Careers - Ultimate Tips For Success
Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:28:09 GMT Are you thinking about changing your career? Are you worried about how difficult the transition is going to be? Then you are not alone. Many people go through similar anticipation when thinking about attempting a career change. Your career is among the most important things in your life, and changing it is one of the most stressful decisions you will ever make.read it »
Life is too short to _____
Mon, 16 Feb 2009 15:18:32 GMT Fill in the blank in the question above to find out what value really drives you. The first step in creating more meaningful work is to determine what energizes you and gives you the brightest vision of your future.read it »
You Can Find A Good Job In A Bad Economy
Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:37:20 GMT Employers are always on the lookout for college students who stand out in some way. However, when times are tough, college students should consider some additional ways to make themselves more visible and attractive to prospective employers.read it »
Finding your Passion
Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:22:36 GMT Today, I start with sharing what I call, "A Scene from Childhood": My daughter Claire, 2 years, 9 months, was playing full out in the back yard, finding things that were funny, laughing, freely enjoying herself. I was soaking her in in all her radiance when she stops and looks at me and with a sense of awe and says…read it »
What Successful Job Seekers Have in Common
Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:10:17 GMT If only there were a formula for getting a job. Follow steps “A,” “B,” and “C” and end up with the job of your dreams. While it’s not that simple, there are some strategies that have proven to be effective. Based on interviews I conducted with job seekers who had recently landed a new position, I found some common themes that can help you speed up your transition.read it »
Back To Basics
Mon, 19 Jan 2009 09:48:25 GMT In this time of corporate upheaval, economic downturn, and general uneasiness, many job seekers rush to get resumes out and to set up interviews. In this rush, simple details that can make a candidate stand out among their peers are often left by the wayside. Today, we'll review these job search basics and define why adhering to these ideas will help you get the attention you want from recruiters!read it »
What doors will I open
Mon, 12 Jan 2009 09:09:24 GMT When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.read it »
Money Matters
Mon, 29 Dec 2008 10:38:52 GMT Millions of people in the business world are going through overwhelming and uncomfortable emotions due to the financial meltdown our nation is currently facing.read it »
Sending Your Resume and Cover Letters
Mon, 15 Dec 2008 09:14:44 GMT When you apply via email, there are a couple of options. You can write your cover letter directly into an email message (the same rules for writing a proper letter and proofing it apply) and attach your resume (a MS Word attachment is best). Or, you can attach both your resume and letter, as separate documents to the email address. Send yourself a copy, as well (use the bcc: field in your email program). That way you'll have a copy for your records.read it »
Never Climb Alone
Mon, 08 Dec 2008 08:49:55 GMT The biggest key in climbing to greater career success is learning to let go!read it »
How to Manage Your Career During an Economic Downturn
Mon, 01 Dec 2008 14:20:48 GMT The economy is reeling under the pressures of a downturn. Unemployment rates are staggering and layoffs are at an all-time high. The current economic climate calls for a robust career management plan, one that will, despite the recession-like conditions, catapult your career to new heights.read it »
10 Tips to Balance Work and Life
Mon, 24 Nov 2008 23:22:40 GMT Many people put work before family and relationships. At times, doing this may be a necessity. If the wolf is at the door, it's understandable. But if you find that work has become your entire life, here are some tips to help you find your balance again.read it »
Career Success - 3 Surprisingly Simple Ways to Bullet Proof Your Career
Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:37:55 GMT In all the years that I have been working as a career and job coach I am always amazed at how many managers tell me they have no time to update their resume and keep their network active. "I know I should," they often say, "but I just don't have the time."� For continual career success these two activities are imperative.read it »
Why Are You Going to College
Mon, 10 Nov 2008 09:27:57 GMT While in high school, most students begin to select a general career direction. Some make careful choices, while others leave things to chance. Either way, the process usually begins there. When college is in the offing, those young adults will attend college for a wide variety reasons. Those reasons usually fall into four distinct categories: Parents, Career, Money and Interests.read it »
Making the First Days at Your New Job Easier
Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:05:28 GMT If you are a new graduate, your first day as a "real nurse" will be not only exciting, but very stressful! Along with the relief of not having an instructor peering over your shoulder and reviewing your every move, you might feel a bit of fear at being solely responsible for your patients, and doing-in real life!-procedures you've only done once (or maybe just learned the theory of doing) in school.read it »
Cover Letter Help - Writing Errors to Avoid
Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:19:03 GMT To ensure you're always using an effective cover letter, let's review the letter's intended purpose. A cover letter primarily connects your resume to an open position. To understand the importance of such a connection, you only need to put yourself in the position of a hiring manager for a day. Hiring managers, recruiters, HR personnel and others within the hiring realm, see several dozen - or potentially a hundred or thousand - resumes per day. How receptive would you be at matching resumes up with open positions within your company?read it »
15 Items for Your Resume To Do List
Mon, 20 Oct 2008 09:46:32 GMT Do you want to create a more "user friendly" resume to submit to recruiters and hiring authorities? Here are 15 suggestions for composing more compelling and targeted resumes.read it »
Ten Tips For Starting A New Job
Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:53:26 GMT It is both exciting and stressful to begin a new job. You want to do a good job and be a team player. How do you begin when everything and everyone is new to you? Here is a list of suggested first "steps" to help you make a smooth transition.read it »
What Motivates Companies to Hire You
Mon, 06 Oct 2008 09:34:51 GMT Knowing what triggers a company's interest and quickly motivates them to sit up and take notice of you is powerful knowledge that you can use over and over again.read it »
Are You A Job Search Procrastinator
Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:24:06 GMT You've been in a dead-end job for months, or even years now, yet you can't seem to gather up the courage to look for a new job. Or your company announced there will be a series of layoffs coming this year and you don't know if you're going to be affected. Is that enough to make you start job hunting? If not, then you could be considered a job search procrastinator.read it »
Winning the Career War
Mon, 22 Sep 2008 09:08:53 GMT Behind the secure walls of corporate fortresses career warriors are relentlessly fighting -- at times with their own selves -- the battle to succeed. Victory and defeat have different connotations in this war, but the rules, the challenges, and the strategies are like any other, and although winning the battle may sound elusive, it really is a game of good timing, great strategy, and powerful allies (smart networking).read it »
What Employers Are Looking For - Employability
Mon, 15 Sep 2008 08:43:32 GMT Excited and anxious to begin the job search, many graduates may erroneously believe the credential alone will carry them. Not so. Employability is a term that defines both the traits and the skills of the individual being considered. Rather than job or industry specific, these competencies must cut horizontally across disciplines and culture, and span the various verticals of hire from CEO to front line worker. The winning attributes high on the most discerning lists fall into three main categories.read it »
Changing Industries - 4 Simple Tips to Move Your Career in a New Direction
Mon, 08 Sep 2008 08:39:34 GMT Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about changing industries? After all, with long workweeks, job-performance demands and trying to have a personal life too it's a wonder any professionals find the time to strategically reposition themselves for a more fulfilling opportunity.read it »
Crafting a Resume for a Non-profit Organization
Tue, 02 Sep 2008 09:36:19 GMT Non-profit agencies do a lot of good work-whether raising money for sick children or finding happy homes for abandoned animals. If you'd like to join the paid ranks of those who work for non-profits, the first step is to put together a resume that will get you noticed and, ultimately, hired.read it »
Who's the Boss
Mon, 25 Aug 2008 09:44:51 GMT The frst step toward taking charge of your work-life is to know that the process begins with YOU. You may expect an in-your-face awakening, but rarely is there a sledge-hammer bang. Usually the message is subtler: it beings with a ping. Ping . . . I think I'm dissatisfed, but I'm not sure. Ping . . . Work was okay today, but "just okay" isn't good enough. Ping . . . People say that no company will look after me and help me build my career. Am I really on my own? Do you pay attention to the ping, as you scuttle about? Or do you simply ignore these insights? What would happen if you opened your heart and mind and listened? Try this test: Begin each day by telling yourself: "You can be your own boss, take charge of your work and bring your own special gifts into the world." Do the pings of doubt and dissatisfaction then begin to fade?read it »
Interviewing
Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:50:42 GMT If you are like so many of my clients, then one of the toughest challenges you face when interviewing with potential employers is how to convey your skills and strengths without that creepy feeling that you are bragging on yourself. Communicating your strengths of course is an absolute must for any interview. So what's the secret? Here are 3 tips to help you make a dazzling impression without feeling like a braggartread it »
Making the Tour Work for You
Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:17:00 GMT At some point in the interview process, you'll probably be offered a tour of the facility, floor, or unit in which you're interviewing for a job. (If a tour is not offered, be sure to ask! You'll certainly want to see the facility in which you'll be working if you are offered and accept the job). This tour can give you valuable information about how the facility is run, what the work pace is like, how the nurses are treated, and if, in fact, this is a job that will work for you.read it »
A Checklist to Nail for Behavioral Interviews
Mon, 04 Aug 2008 11:12:39 GMT If you're reading this article, you probably understand that job successful job seekers talk about what they have accomplished in previous positions, and present a "mini-business plan" to relate to the needs of a prospective employer. Review the following list to be sure you are prepared to nail behavioral interviews: You have clearly and concisely described one - two "success stories" for each of your previous employers, using the Problem (Challenge) - Action - Result model. You have analyzed your accomplishment stories to identify the personal qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that made it possible for you to achieve your successes. Going forward, you need to re-frame this data in terms of what is needed for the specific position you are applying for.read it »
Easy to Implement Cover Letter Advice
Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:55:17 GMT You should put the same effort into your cover letter as you do your resume. By implementing the following easy steps, you will ensure that your cover letter will stand out just as much as your resume.read it »
When Providing References Is a Challenge
Mon, 21 Jul 2008 08:42:38 GMT Dear Joan: I am updating my resume and need some advice regarding references, should a prospective employer ask for them. I currently work for a 'toxic boss' who would retaliate and make my life miserable if it were known I was looking elsewhere. Those in upper management, including HR, have been made aware of this person by numerous employees, and either don't know how to deal with it, or refuse to deal with it. This poorly managed work environment is prompting me to look for employment elsewhere. [...] I can provide some names for personal references, but I am at a loss on how to cover the lack of employer references. Do you have any suggestions?read it »
Career Management Basics
Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:28:28 GMT Two years ago I was laid off from my job. Before that I never had to be in a job search - in fact, all of my job changes were simply a result of opportunities that found me. This means I never knew the stress, amount of time required, level of detail to manage, or pre-preparation that would go into my job search.read it »
The Flinch
Mon, 07 Jul 2008 08:58:29 GMT What's a... - Four-letter word - You use every day - With no vowels - Not found in the dictionary - And when used correctly in negotiations will put dollars in your pocket every time?read it »
Change Your Future
Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:44:24 GMT Are you focused on the past or the potential your future holds? Many people can't let go of something that happened A long time ago. Maybe it was a conversation you had, or didn't have. Maybe it was a project you should have taken, or one that you let pass by. Maybe it was something you said on an interview, or didn't say. Everyone has "something" in their career that they wish they could change. So, know that you are not alone. It's not what happened that matters most now, but what you do going forward.read it »
Resume Mistakes Can Cost You The Job
Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:27:05 GMT Recently I was assisting an employer with the hiring process and reviewed many resumes that were sent in. I couldn't help but be concerned that so many people are not having any job search success because they are using a very poor resume to represent themselves to potential employers. A poor resume drags out a search for new employment.read it »
Career Success
Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:53:40 GMT What Did You Say? A college education has been long regarded as essential to getting the best jobs available - and that is still true today. Yet, employers are demanding more from their new college recruits!read it »
Online Career Networking
Mon, 09 Jun 2008 09:42:45 GMT Your job search/career network includes the people who can help you find a new job, get a promotion, change careers, get a client, give you a recommendation, or who are willing to assist you in any one of a number of ways. In many cases, all you have to do is ask. It can include colleagues, clients, friends, and just about anyone who might be able to assist you, either now or in the future.read it »
Avoid a Three-ring Circus with These New Interviewing Strategies
Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:33:51 GMT I referenced the circus because I just finished another interviewing book that recommends asking for the job before leaving the interview. I can envision up to 15 qualified professionals each asking the interviewer for the job. If each asks for the job, doesn't that make the question null and void ... cross out each other's great gesture? If everyone jumps through the same hoop, performing like a good little circus monkey, what's going to set you apart from other candidates?read it »
How To Write An Interview Thank You Letter
Tue, 27 May 2008 08:54:26 GMT Sending a thank you letter is as important as interview preparation. But they're tough to write, so people either tell themselves that not sending one doesn't matter, or they procrastinate until it's too late and almost pointless anyway. Anyone who tells themselves that foregoing a fundamental rule of etiquette doesn't matter, not only taints themselves in the mind of the interviewer, but misses two additional opportunities to sell.read it »
Resume Writing 101
Tue, 20 May 2008 11:14:40 GMT Interviewing: First Impression is critical First impressions are critical to a successful interview. Make sure to be on time, maintain eye contact, answer questions honestly, and be confident. These are key to making a good and lasting impression. Make sure the impression that is left is the one that will get you the job.read it »
Should I Include My Salary Requirements In My Cover Letter
Tue, 13 May 2008 09:57:05 GMT In most normal cases, you should not include your salary expectation in cover letters unless you have very good reason for doing so. This may be when a recruiter contacts you after seeing your resume somewhere, such as an online job board. In this particular case, then it is okay to reveal your salary expectations early, in order to avoid wasting your time and theirs. However, barring this one difference, you should just write the cover letter as you normally would.read it »
Interview Etiquette
Mon, 05 May 2008 10:58:41 GMT Do you know what is appropriate to wear to a job interview? What to say or do to impress and not turn off an employer? Interview etiquette is an often overlooked but important part of job search success.read it »
Top Resume Writing Tips
Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:59:28 GMT It's been said that you only get one chance to make a good first impression. People meeting you for the first time will make some type of judgment based upon your appearance, the circumstances of meeting and more. Just as this saying is true for a face to face meeting, it also goes for your resume as well. Potential employers will make a judgment about your skills and abilities based upon the first impression - which is more than likely your professional resume.read it »
From 'Just A Job' To Your Dream Career
Wed, 23 Apr 2008 17:17:02 GMT Are you in a career you love, or in a job you are tolerating? What's the difference? If you're working strictly to earn a paycheck to pay the bills, you have a job. If your days are filled with passion and delight for the work you do, you have a dream career.read it »
Why Do You Need a Resume
Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:40:02 GMT You've been working your way up to positions of increased responsibility over the past 15 years, you are widely known within your industry, and you have even been quoted in trade and business publications on changes in the economic markets and consumer trends. So why do you need a resume?read it »
How to Train Yourself for a New Job
Mon, 07 Apr 2008 12:06:56 GMT If you've been looking for a job for any length of time, you'll notice there are many out there beyond your level of expertise. Why is that? Is it because of your education? Your lack of experience? If you want to move ahead in your career, sometimes you need to make yourself more marketable. How exactly can you do that?read it »
