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#JobSearch : The Best Job Boards To Get You Hired In 2023. Guess Which is the Best/Largest? You’re On It. LinkedIn.

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There are hundreds of job boards out there all claiming to hold the ticket to your dream job. While having lots of options can be enticing, sometimes the more specific you get, the higher your chances of success become.

If you’ve been looking for a guide to the best job boards out there, you have come to the right place. Here’s my list of favorites, along with their pros and specialties, to help you land the career that you deserve. Let’s dive in!

LinkedIn (For Building Connections)

LinkedIn is the most popular job board site in the world, and for good reason. This social network slash job posting site goes beyond just jobs and helps you build connections with recruiters and hiring managers in the industries you’ve got your eyes set on.

LinkedIn allows you to:

  • Connect with potential companies, previous colleagues, and alumni from your university
  • Get endorsed for your skills and network with managers from the same field
  • Upload your resume, personalize your profile, and create your own personal brand
  • Get access to trainings and best practices in your field to help you stand out

The feature that most candidates best know LinkedIn for is the “Easy Apply” button but I think it is often overused. Instead of spamming apply for different roles, I actually recommend you take it a step further and first connect with the hiring team directly.

 

You can send a note like this to the recruiter when sending them a connection request:

Hi NAME,

I saw your team was recruiting for <ROLE> and I’d love to be considered.

I spent the last <# YEARS WITH COMPANY> and some of my big wins include <ACHIEVEMENTS IN YOUR ROLE>. My core skills are in <RELEVANT SKILLS FOR THE ROLE> and I think I’d be a great fit for the role you have on hand.

Let me know if you are free for a call later this week to discuss further. Thank you for your time!

Best,

YOUR NAME

 

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Updated NEWS: #BestofFSCBlog – Aug23 we hit Two Milestones: #1– Hit over 1.2 million impressions on our FSC Career Blogs within 7 days on LinkedIn……. #2– Over 3.5 Million participates on our FSC Career Blog page below within three years!  Both the Team/myself want to thank you all for participating! …… Chris G. & Team,www.firstsun.com

Daily FSC Career Blogs/Articles: Articles/blogs on today’s Job Search (Over 8K Daily Readers)- Go to ‘Blog Search’ & type in updated info on resumes, job search, networking, social media job search, etc.

https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

New- FSC LinkedIn Newsletter– Daily articles/blogs on Today’s Job Market & Seach. Subscribe Today!

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fsc-linkedin-network-7081658661743308800

Connect with us on LinkedIn (under Chris G. Laughter) : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-g-laughter-b46389198/

Best Daily Choice: Follow the Best of FSC Career Articles/Blogs  @

https://twitter.com/search?q=bestoffscblog&src=typeahead_click

Question: Searching for ‘the Best Daily Career Search Articles/Blogs on the web’ on Job Search, Resume, Advancing/Changing your Career, or simply Managing People?

Answer: Simply go to our FSC Career Blog below & Type(Jobsearch, Resume, Networking, etc) in Blog Search:  https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

What Skill Sets Do You Have to be ‘Sharpened‘?

 

Did you know?  First Sun Consulting, Llc (FSC) is celebrating over 32 years in delivering corporate & individual outplacement services & programs to over 1200 corporate clients in the U.S., Canada, the UK, & Mexico!   Visit us @ www.firstsun.com  OR Ask for a Quote for Services at  info@firstsun.com

We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

Article continued …

Glassdoor (For Company Reviews)

Glassdoor is another site with one of the largest volumes of job postings from all sorts of different industries. With Glassdoor’s company information, you can get an insider’s peek into the company culture, type of management, career mobility and work-life balance. And that’s on top of the info you get on salary, total compensation details, and benefits.

Glassdoor comes with free and paid versions, with the latter giving you access to more advanced analytics to help you decide better if the job fits you well. And if you’re looking for companies that tick all the boxes for an overall fulfilling career, be sure to check out Glassdoors’ list of Best Places to Work.

Getwork (For Verified Jobs)

With the rise of job search scams, it’s important to stay vigilant out there on different job boards. It’s crucial you are reviewing jobs that are real and verified. That’s where Getwork comes into play. Getwork sources the job postings directly from the hiring company’s careers page and provides you details about the role including information on salary range, remote opportunities, company background, and more.

Wellfound (For Startups)

Originally known as AngelList, Wellfound is the best place to find roles for hot, new startups. Also, the interface is clean, hip and fun, much like the job environment it promotes. From engineering jobs at AI companies to operations at emerging FinTech firms, Wellfound has a little bit of everything when it comes to the world’s best startups. Beyond the role, you can also find a lot of information on the company, its founders, and how much capital they have raised. It’s a good idea to target some of these companies that have just raised money because you know they will be in growth mode!

RemoteOK (For Remote Work)

If you’re done with the office forever, then I suggest you check out RemoteOK for remote work opportunities. The site offers a heap of different jobs that are freelance and remote to give you that leeway to do other things, and have control of your daily workflow. Flexibility is the name of the game when you search for jobs and gigs on RemoteOK. While they mainly focus on tech roles, there are also lots of great opportunities in account management, finance, operations, and more.

Choose What’s Best For You

There are many factors that you have to consider in choosing and applying for a new job — the salary, work hours, location and/or remote, the values the company holds, your manager, and more.

But the key to unlocking the door to the right job for you is you knowing what you are looking for in the first place. With a clear set of your values and priorities, it will be easier for you to review these job board sites and find the dream job you’ve always wanted!

 

Forbes.com Author:  Sho Dewan        Follow me on LinkedIn. Check out my website.

 

Forbes.com | September 14, 2023

 

#JobIntereviewingQuestions : How To Answer The 3 Most Annoying Interview Questions. Got Interview? MUst REad!

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The day you’ve been waiting for is here. Today is your first round interview for that role you’ve been eyeing for a long time now. Your resume and cover letter have already done their job to get you noticed for the interview. And now, it’s time to shine in the recruiter screen!

But of course, it’s not just a straight shot to the hiring manager round. You still have to answer the questions that the recruiter has prepared.

 

Most of the time, recruiter screens are just a way to see if you are a good fit and can do the job, and will typically go through a set of common interview questions including: “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want this role,” etc.

 

With that said, there are always going to be a few questions that can cause you to stumble. I’ve coached thousands of candidates in the past, so let me help you run through the 3 most annoying questions and how best to answer them.

1. What Is Your Biggest Weakness?

This might seem like a trick question at first. But answering it truthfully and with self-awareness can actually gain you some bonus points and eventually that nod in approval for the next round. Because let’s face it — nobody’s perfect. Even your potential boss has their own set of weaknesses.

The biggest takeaway here is to not try to force your “weakness” to look like a strength. The old lines of “I am a perfectionist” or “I am too obsessed with the details,” can actually bite you on the other end and come off as a red flag. They might also sound scripted or insincere, which is the last thing you want to do to impress a future employer.

You are better off giving an honest answer that shows you are self-aware and working on making improvements. Some examples include things like getting the jitters before a big presentation or having limited knowledge of working with a specific tool. Some may also say they take too long to adapt to a change in environment, or a difficulty managing their expectations of their manager.

The golden rule to all of this is to turn the tables to how you are working on improving it. You can say things such as you are working on your stage fright by attending weekly meetings at a local Toastmaster, taking a mental break when you’re overwhelmed, or blocking off time to learn a new tool to help you at work. It’s normal to have weaknesses, but what sets the winners apart is how they embrace their weaknesses and look forward to getting better.

 

Like this Article?  Share It!    You can now easily enjoy/follow/share Today our Award-Winning Articles/Blogs with Now Over 3.5 Million Growing Participates Worldwide in our various Social Media formats below:

Updated NEWS: #BestofFSCBlog – Aug23 we hit Two Milestones: #1– Hit over 1.2 million impressions on our FSC Career Blogs within 7 days on LinkedIn……. #2– Over 3.5 Million participates on our FSC Career Blog page below within three years!  Both the Team/myself want to thank you all for participating! …… Chris G. & Team,www.firstsun.com

Daily FSC Career Blogs/Articles: Articles/blogs on today’s Job Search (Over 8K Daily Readers)- Go to ‘Blog Search’ & type in updated info on resumes, job search, networking, social media job search, etc.

https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

New- FSC LinkedIn Newsletter– Daily articles/blogs on Today’s Job Market & Seach. Subscribe Today!

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fsc-linkedin-network-7081658661743308800

Connect with us on LinkedIn (under Chris G. Laughter) : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-g-laughter-b46389198/

Best Daily Choice: Follow the Best of FSC Career Articles/Blogs  @

https://twitter.com/search?q=bestoffscblog&src=typeahead_click

Question: Searching for ‘the Best Daily Career Search Articles/Blogs on the web’ on Job Search, Resume, Advancing/Changing your Career, or simply Managing People?

Answer: Simply go to our FSC Career Blog below & Type (Jobsearch, Resume, Networking, etc) in Blog Search:  https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

What Skill Sets Do You Have to be ‘Sharpened‘?

 

Did you know?  First Sun Consulting, Llc (FSC) is celebrating over 32 years in delivering corporate & individual outplacement services & programs to over 1200 corporate clients in the U.S., Canada, the UK, & Mexico!   Visit us @ www.firstsun.com  OR Ask for a Quote for Services at  info@firstsun.com

We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & move each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

2. Why Did You Leave Your Last Role?

There are a variety of reasons why people leave their jobs. There are some good ones and some not-so-good ones. When you encounter a question about why you’re switching from one job to another (see, that’s why you’re applying!), you must avoid badmouthing your former or current employer at all costs.

You see, this is not about them. The interview concerns you and your potential new job. Whatever you might have experienced with your past employer will most likely be of no concern to your future boss. Furthermore, talking more about your strengths and evolving interests will be more relevant in answering this question.

All companies would prefer hiring a dreamer who innovates and expands their horizons. So you could say that you’re leaving your former job to find some more room for growth and development. Here’s a sample answer that may help:

“I have had some great experiences in my career and, at this point, am really looking to take my skills in Data Analytics to the next level.

I learned a ton from my last manager but felt that I hit a plateau with my development after spending the last 3 years there. This role popped up on my LinkedIn feed, and it just seems like an incredible opportunity to learn from experts in this field. Really excited to learn more today.”

In the end, it is important to recognize that your former employer contributed considerably to your professional growth, but all things, even the good ones, reach their end. And by that time, it’s time to start a new journey.

3. What Is Your Current Salary (And Expectations)?

It’s not always about the money, but of course, it matters. Usually, towards the end of the interview, your interviewer will ask you what your current salary is and your expectations. Before you say anything, take a pause and aim to make this a conversation, not a confrontation.

The best case scenario is that you follow up and ask them first what their budget is for this specific role, and they give you a range. And from there, you can give them feedback if it’s aligned with what you are looking for.

It doesn’t always work this way, though, and they may expect you to be the one that gives the first number out. If that’s the case, do your part to stay calm and work with them, not against them. Let them know you are happy to discuss salary and expectations after you know more about the role and after both sides agree that it may be a good fit.

This is also where your research comes in handy, so you know what other companies are paying for similar roles in this industry. Knowing your market value can give you a good feel for how to negotiate your salary moving forward. Some of the best resources out there to check salary information are Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, and Salary.com.

And remember that our goal here is never to lie! Being truthful and sincere about what you know, and don’t know will always work out for you in the long run. Knowing who you are, and all the value you bring to the table will ultimately guide you towards your ideal career path. If you’re looking for more resources, get our free Interview Kit and get prepared to nail that interview!

Forbes.com Author:  Sho Dewan   Follow me on LinkedIn. Check out my website.
Forbes.com | September 11, 2023

#JobSearch : 5 Steps To Get Hired During The September Surge. Best Months for Candidates are at the Beginning of the Year, Spring, and of Course, September.

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You may have seen the trend all over your TikTok feed or in recent articles — the September Surge for hiring is here. Most recruiters, hiring managers, and career coaches agree: now is the best time to update your resumes and start hunting for a new role if you want to land one by the end of the year.

So what is this September Surge? It refers to the uptick in hiring that occurs in the last quarter of the year. The surge happens because of two things. First: hiring managers and recruiters are mostly back now from their summer vacations. And second: Many companies and brands have a remaining budget to accelerate hiring and help hit certain revenue targets as the year ends. This way, they can end the year on a high and have a complete team that’s ready to hit the ground running early next year.

I’ve been in the HR and recruitment space for the better part of the decade, and have seen the best months for candidates are typically at the beginning of the year, Spring, and of course, September. If you’ve been in the market for new opportunities, your time is going to come sooner rather than later, especially if you follow these five tips to get hired during the September Surge.

1. Get specific on what you want

Remember rage-applying? Yeah, I wouldn’t recommend it. While it’s true that you shouldn’t pin your hopes on just one or two applications, you also shouldn’t go and just hit “easy apply” to every open role either.

It may feel counterintuitive, but the more narrowed and specific you get on what you want the more, the higher your chances become of actually landing it. What I recommend is for you to make a list of all the great qualities you are looking for in this next role. Here are some questions to help you get started:

  • What kind of company do you want to work for?
  • How would you describe what your ideal manager and team look like?
  • What skills do you want to flex in this role?
  • What projects and type of work do you not want to do?
  • Where would you like to be located?

Once you get clear on the type of role you want, why you would be a good fit, and how you can contribute, that is when the magic happens. Get specific and make a list of your target roles & companies before progressing forward.

 

Like this Article?  Share It!    You can now easily enjoy/follow/share Today our Award-Winning Articles/Blogs with Now Over 3.5 Million Growing Participates Worldwide in our various Social Media formats below:

Updated NEWS: #BestofFSCBlog – Aug23 we hit Two Milestones: #1– Hit over 1.2 million impressions on our FSC Career Blogs within 7 days on LinkedIn……. #2– Over 3.5 Million participates on our FSC Career Blog page below within three years!  Both the Team/myself want to thank you all for participating! …… Chris G. & Team,www.firstsun.com

Daily FSC Career Blogs/Articles: Articles/blogs on today’s Job Search (Over 8K Daily Readers)- Go to ‘Blog Search’ & type in updated info on resumes, job search, networking, social media job search, etc.

https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

New- FSC LinkedIn Newsletter– Daily articles/blogs on Today’s Job Market & Seach. Subscribe Today!

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fsc-linkedin-network-7081658661743308800

Connect with us on LinkedIn (under Chris G. Laughter) : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-g-laughter-b46389198/

Best Daily Choice: Follow the Best of FSC Career Articles/Blogs  @

https://twitter.com/search?q=bestoffscblog&src=typeahead_click

Question: Searching for ‘the Best Daily Career Search Articles/Blogs on the web’ on Job Search, Resume, Advancing/Changing your Career, or simply Managing People?

Answer: Simply go to our FSC Career Blog below & Type (Jobsearch, Resume, Networking, etc) in Blog Search:  https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

What Skill Sets Do You Have to be ‘Sharpened‘?

Did you know?  First Sun Consulting, Llc (FSC) is celebrating over 32 years in delivering corporate & individual outplacement services & programs to over 1200 corporate clients in the U.S., Canada, the UK, & Mexico!   Visit us @ www.firstsun.com  OR Ask for a Quote for Services at  info@firstsun.com

We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

2. Get your resume ready and tailored for the role

You already know the job market is uber competitive these days so don’t disqualify yourself with a bland, generic resume.

Think of it this way: Recruiters will be sifting through hundreds of resumes for a single job post. They’ll be skimming through pages and pages of resume to focus on certain key qualifications and experiences that match the job description. And if your resume is not highlighting the things they are looking for, your chances are pretty much zero on landing an interview.

So how do you ensure that your resume stands out from the others?

You don’t have to go all out and create something wildly creative here but use what is tried and true. You can download our free, simple, ATS-friendly resume template from our website here.

Next, read the job post thoroughly and put yourself in the hiring manager’s shoes. What kind of skills and experiences are they looking for in this candidate? Now that you know that, try to use their language, the same keywords and skills. Anything you can do to make the recruiter’s job easier will work in your favor, I guarantee it.

Then proofread for any silly errors. Make sure there are no typo errors and even get a friend or two to read your resume and check for anything that can be revised.

3. Research the company and get connected with decision makers

The next part is how you stand out even further. You can dramatically increase your chances of being noticed by deeply researching the company and getting connected with decision makers.

Start by digging deep into the company’s website, social media profiles, and any recent news articles or press releases. This knowledge will not only help you tailor your application but also impress during upcoming information and actual interviews, demonstrating your genuine interest and commitment to the organization.

You can also look up the company’s decision makers on LinkedIn, and try to hit up a connection with a well-crafted intro. Here’s a template you can use here:

Hi James,

Amazing to see you celebrate your anniversary with [firm name]! Congratulations on your tenure and all your big wins.

I wanted to reach out as I am exploring opportunities with [firm] myself. Would you be available for a call to discuss your experience so far? Thanks so much in advance!

Best,

NAME

Also, if you can, attend industry-related events, conferences, and webinars, as these are excellent opportunities to meet professionals from your desired field, including those within your target companies.

4. Prep for your networking chats and interviews

And then it’s off to the interviews! Getting your resume handpicked from the rest is an excellent opportunity that you shouldn’t miss, so ensure that you’re ready to impress during your networking chats and interviews.

You’ve already done your research about the company, so you probably already know what to say on some level. All that’s left to do is to polish your game through practice.

Research common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses, but don’t just write your answers on a piece of paper. Write stories that highlight your unique skills and experiences, and relate back to the role you are going for.

Say them out loud and take note of your tone, expression, and body language. It doesn’t matter if you do this alone with a mirror or a friend who can provide some feedback, you just need to get those reps in to get rid of the jitters.

5. Don’t just focus on only one company. Get multiple offers to build leverage.

If you follow the first four tips, you will probably have a line up of interviews coming your way. But the big mistake I want you to avoid is just going all in on one company. While it’s great to have your eyes on the prize, the more options you have, the more leverage you build up.

And saying yes to every suitable interview that you can line up can help ensure that you get the best offer possible. Because the last thing a company wants to do is lose out on great talent to another competitor.

The goal here is to have multiple offers because then you are in the driver’s seat and are able to compare and contrast comp packages, benefits, and the overall culture of each company. If you run across a company that has the best culture-fit but is lacking in total compensation, you can even use other offers to showcase your value and negotiate for a better salary.

Remember, this is not just another job you are after. You are going towards your ideal career and it’s important to think things through with all the information available. So be patient and give yourself the gift of choice.

Bonus Tip: Remember you are a valuable candidate!

It all starts with confidence and knowing that you bring to the table a set of skills that any company would be lucky to have. Most of the time it all just comes down to your stories, timing, and your confidence in yourself, so follow the tips I laid out for you to ensure that you make the most of the September Surge. Rooting for you!

Forbes.com | September 7, 2023 | Sho Dewan

#SalaryNegotiations : 7 Mindset Shifts For Mastering Salary Negotiations. A MUst REad Before your Acceptance!

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Salary negotiations can often feel daunting, mainly because we often subconsciously perceive them as conjuring an unequal power struggle between a prospective employee (with little to no power) and an employer (with all of the power).

That said, adopting the right mindset can completely transform this experience into a mutually beneficial business deal. In this article, we’ll explore the most important mindset shifts to make in preparation for a salary negotiation, emphasizing that negotiations are not just about you needing the company, but also about the value both parties bring to the table.

Mindset Shift 1: Equal Partners in a Business Deal

A significant shift in perspective is to view salary negotiations as a business transaction rather than a one-sided power dynamic. Both you and the employer are investing time, skills, and resources into this partnership. Just like any business deal, both parties expect to gain value from the exchange. Embrace the idea that your skills and contributions are assets that the company values and ultimately needs to continue to be successful.

 

Like this Article?  Share It!    You can now easily enjoy/follow/share Today our Award-Winning Articles/Blogs with Now Over 3.5 Million Growing Participates Worldwide in our various Social Media formats below:

Updated NEWS: #BestofFSCBlog – Aug23 we hit Two Milestones: #1– Hit over 1.2 million impressions on our FSC Career Blogs within 7 days on LinkedIn……. #2– Over 3.5 Million participates on our FSC Career Blog page below within three years!  Both the Team/myself want to thank you all for participating! …… Chris G. & Team,www.firstsun.com

Daily FSC Career Blogs/Articles: Articles/blogs on today’s Job Search (Over 8K Daily Readers)- Go to ‘Blog Search’ & type in updated info on resumes, job search, networking, social media job search, etc.

https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

New- FSC LinkedIn Newsletter– Daily articles/blogs on Today’s Job Market & Seach. Subscribe Today!

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fsc-linkedin-network-7081658661743308800

Connect with us on LinkedIn (under Chris G. Laughter) : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-g-laughter-b46389198/

Best Daily Choice: Follow the Best of FSC Career Articles/Blogs  @

https://twitter.com/search?q=bestoffscblog&src=typeahead_click

Question: Searching for ‘the Best Daily Career Search Articles/Blogs on the web’ on Job Search, Resume, Advancing/Changing your Career, or simply Managing People?

Answer: Simply go to our FSC Career Blog below & Type (Jobsearch, Resume, Networking, etc) in Blog Search:  https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

What Skill Sets Do You Have to be ‘Sharpened‘?

 

Did you know?  First Sun Consulting, Llc (FSC) is celebrating over 32 years in delivering corporate & individual outplacement services & programs to over 1200 corporate clients in the U.S., Canada, the UK, & Mexico!   Visit us @ www.firstsun.com  OR Ask for a Quote for Services at  info@firstsun.com

We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

Mindset Shift 2: Know Your Worth

Before entering negotiations, it’s crucial to understand your market value. Research the industry standards and average salaries for your role and experience level. This knowledge empowers you to make a well-informed case for your desired compensation. Remember, the company needs to secure your talents in order to maintain, or even advance, their business.

Mindset Shift 3: Highlight Your Value Proposition

Shift your focus from merely needing the company to genuinely appreciating the value you bring. Prepare a compelling argument showcasing your achievements, skills, and contributions. Highlight instances where you’ve positively impacted projects, increased efficiency, or demonstrated leadership. Demonstrating your impact demonstrates that you’re an essential asset, not just a replaceable employee.

Mindset Shift 4: Understand the Company’s Perspective

Negotiations are not just about you; they’re about finding a balance that benefits both parties. Put yourself in the company’s shoes to better understand their goals and challenges. Take time to consider the role you could or would play in helping them to achieve their objectives. Not only does this mindset shift foster empathy, it also opens the door for a more constructive conversation.

Mindset Shift 5: Focus on Long-Term Growth

View your compensation package as an investment in your professional journey. While an initial salary increase is valuable, don’t neglect to consider other benefits such as professional development opportunities, performance bonuses, stock options, or flexible work arrangements. This broader perspective emphasizes the long-term partnership you’re building with the company and gives you more leverage in the negotiation.

Mindset Shift 6: Embrace Open Communication

Approach negotiations with transparency and clarity. Communicate your expectations, career goals, and the reasons behind your desired compensation. Encourage the company to share their expectations as well. This transparency builds trust and reinforces the notion that both parties are working towards a common goal.

Mindset Shift 7: Be Prepared to Walk Away

While negotiations are about finding common ground, be prepared to walk away if the terms don’t align with your personal values or the value you could bring to the position. This mindset shift puts you in a position of strength, signaling that you’re committed to securing a fair deal. Remember, your skills are in demand, and other opportunities might await if an agreement cannot be reached.

Approaching salary negotiations with the right mindset can completely transform the experience from an intimidating power dynamic into a strategic business deal. By recognizing your worth, highlighting your value, and understanding the company’s perspective, you can create a win-win scenario that benefits both you and your employer. Remember, negotiations are not about one side needing the other; they’re about leveraging mutual strengths to establish a foundation for growth and success. So, the next time you prepare for a salary negotiation, channel the mindset of a savvy businessperson ready to secure a deal that honors your skills and contributions.

Forbes.com Author:  Kwame Christian    Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website or some of my other work here.
Forbes.com | August 23, 2023

#BestofFSCBlog : LinkedIn Profile Do’s And Don’ts. First Impressions Matter a Lot, Especially on LinkedIn. A MUst REad!

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First impressions matter a lot, especially on LinkedIn. So, whether you are looking for a new job or want to create a more influential personal brand, there are some guidelines you need to follow. Step one of career management is to have an outstanding LinkedIn profile. As a career counselor, I see many common mistakes you must avoid. These are outlined below with some recommendations on what you should do to present yourself in the best possible light.

The Do’s

Have a complete profile. This is a critical step. Too many profiles need to be updated. Ensure the info is current, and all the required sections are completed. Don’t leave sections blank.

Work history needs specific details. This section should summarize your experience and be loaded with the results and accomplishments you’ve had in that role. Note your key strengths and relevant work tasks. If you only list your job title, employer name, and dates without additional details, you’ll miss an SEO opportunity and the chance to attract a recruiter’s or potential client’s interest.

 

Like this Article?  Share It!    You can now easily enjoy/follow/share Today our Award-Winning Articles/Blogs with Now Over 2.5 Million Growing Participates Worldwide in our various Social Media formats below:

Daily FSC Career Blogs/Articles: Articles/blogs on today’s Job Search (Over 6K Daily Readers)- Go to ‘Blog Search’ & type in updated info on resumes, job search, networking, social media job search, etc.

https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

New- FSC LinkedIn Newsletter– Daily articles/blogs on Today’s Job Market & Seach. Subscribe Today!

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fsc-linkedin-network-7081658661743308800

Connect with us on LinkedIn (under Chris G. Laughter) : https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-g-laughter-b46389198/

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Did you know?  First Sun Consulting, Llc (FSC) is celebrating over 32 years in delivering corporate & individual outplacement services & programs to over 1200 corporate clients in the U.S., Canada, the UK, & Mexico!   Visit us @ www.firstsun.com  OR Ask for a Quote for Services at  info@firstsun.com

We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

Customize your headline. The headline section is the most searched part of LinkedIn. And by default, LinkedIn will create one, simply listing your current job title. You will appear in more LinkedIn searches by using strategic keywords in your headline, listing the appropriate job titles considering your current and future roles. You could also include your industry, such as fintech or healthcare.

Tell your story in the “About” section. Personalize this section so that it shows your personality and is authentic and genuine. It is written in the first person. Share some reasons why you like your work and what you feel you are good at and mention a couple of work tasks you enjoy. If you are a manager, describe your style and note how important the team is. Avoid resume speak, so don’t just pull off your resume or a bio about yourself.

Use a great photo. A smiling, engaging, current headshot is what you want to use. It doesn’t need to be a professional picture; the camera on your smartphone allows you to get a perfect photo. Be sure you have a plain background, good light that shows your whole face with no dark sides or shadows. A solid-colored top works best. And most important, smile!

Point out your top skills. LinkedIn added a new feature called “Top Skills,” which sits right under your “About” section in the profile. You can highlight your top five skills. These impactful, searchable keywords improve your chances of capturing attention and enhancing your profile.

Have recommendations. Everyone looks at these when they check out your profile. These references are powerful and influential. They attest to how good you are at that job and that colleague’s impression of working with you. More is better when it comes to having recommendations on your profile. If yours aren’t current, ask some people to write one.

 

The Don’ts

Do not just describe what your company does. Your profile is about you, not your employer, even if you are the CEO. Emphasize what you have done. Note the results and outcomes you have made in your job roles. Create a personalized “about” section that talks about you and may include what you do for the employer, but this needs to be focused on who you are.

Do not list just job titles, employers and dates of employment. It’s a big mistake when there are not enough work experience details. Give a full description and point out a few key accomplishments, responsibilities, and results you have achieved in that job.

Do not include every job you have ever held. Since careers typically are progressive, it’s unnecessary to detail or even list what you did 20 years ago, as that role has little impact on where you are now and your next career position, so keep the profile to the last 10-15 years. If you are over 50, going back too far puts an emphasis on your age, which is not what you want here.

Never post anything negative. Too many people have sunk their ship complaining about a former employer or boss and posting these thoughts on LinkedIn. Prospective employers read your posts; a negative comment will make them think less of you. Many recruiters say negative comments make them move on to another candidate.

Do not be inactive on LinkedIn. You need to interact and respond to comments. The more you post on LinkedIn, the better you will do with the algorithm that controls the website. Remember that posting is not the same as commenting or liking something. Posting is creating original content, asking a question of your network, taking a poll, or sharing an article that you think is of value to other connections.

Do not have only a few connections. The number of connections makes a difference in your visibility on this platform. People who have connections under 75 are at an extreme disadvantage. Your goal should be to have at least 200-300 connections for a solid network. Add friends, bosses, coworkers, and recruiters.

 

Forbes.com | August 8, 2023 | Robin Ryan

 

#YourCareer : Should You Accept A Job With A High-Status Company (Fortune 500) Or The Firm That Pays More Money? What say You?

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In a challenging job market, obtaining an offer calls for a celebration. If you have two prospects to choose from: congratulations! Having multiple offers puts you in a very advantageous position, as you won’t have to come from a place of scarcity when you make this decision. However, choosing which job to accept is not easy. You must weigh all the pros and cons, consider the long-term growth potential, whether you like one company and its people more than the other and which role can make a marketable impact on your long-term career.

When deciding between two job offers, one with a high-status company and the other with a solid organization that pays more money, it’s essential to consider all the factors, not just the brand name or compensation.

 

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Did you know?  First Sun Consulting, Llc (FSC) is celebrating over 32 years in delivering corporate & individual outplacement services & programs to over 1200 corporate clients in the U.S., Canada, the UK, & Mexico!   Visit us @ www.firstsun.com  OR Ask for a Quote for Services at  info@firstsun.com

We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

For instance, the lower-tier company may have more room for you to grow. You will be a big fish in a small pond and get more attention, promotions and access to senior-level executives. The high-status company offers bragging rights to your family and friends. The cache of the marquee name will open doors for you for the rest of your career, as it signals that you are a high-caliber professional.

Some high-status companies in well-respected sectors, such as tech, finance and management consulting, include Google, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group and Bain & Company.

Here’s How To Figure Out What’s Best For You

Start with a comparison between the options. Consider what will make you happy and which role will help you build and grow your career for long-term success. Weigh the pros and cons of each offer. If this helps you out, remember that no one option is perfect at the end of the day. There are no guarantees in life. Whatever you decide is a risk you are taking, and you just have to hope for the best.

Compensation may be a driving factor, given your current financial situation. Consider how much more money you would want to turn down a high-profile company’s offer. Think about your finances. Are you already fiscally comfortable or in debt and need a higher salary to make ends meet?

Be aware that there is almost always room to negotiate compensation and other items. You can use the higher offer at the lesser firm to counteroffer the premier company. If they view you as a valuable asset and it is within their budget, you can walk away with more money at the higher-status firm.

 

More Questions To Ponder About Selecting What’s Right For You

  • How much money do you need to make to live comfortably?
  • Are you worried about insufficient funds to buy a home, start a family and save for retirement?
  • What are your long-term goals for your career?
  • Is the prestigious name of the company more important than the money?
  • Which opportunity do you feel would make you happier?
  • Does the company offer your preferred work styles—remote, hybrid or in-office?
  • Which business offers more responsibilities?
  • Which of the two choices aligns with your core values, such as work-life balance, a good boss, friendly co-workers, mentors and a pleasant, low-pressure atmosphere?

 

You don’t have to go it alone. It’s helpful to synthesize information by gathering intelligence from a wide array of people familiar with you and your circumstances. If you are undecided, seek out assistance. Speak with your family, friends, colleagues, former co-workers, recruiters, mentor, sponsor, career coach or anyone you know currently working at either of the companies in question.

A Few More Things To Think About

  • After taxes, commuting costs and other factors, howmuch more money are you really making at the higher-paying job? Is it enough to make a significant difference in your lifestyle?
  • Benefits are critical if you have a family, especially if you, your spouse or children have health issues. Check to see what the differences are between the two organizations.
  • Similarly, look into 401(k) plans, stock grants and options, paid time off and potential bonuses. Are there annual salary increases? How quickly are people promoted? Or conversely, how often does the firm lay off workers or place them on performance improvement plans?
  • Culture is key. Is one company more strict than the other? Do you feel a closer connection with the people you’ve met at one organization than the others?
  • Sometimes the offer is great, but there is little upward movement in pay, title and growth. Have you asked about advancement at the respective firms?

 

Forbes.com | August 1, 2023

#JobInterview : How Small Talk Helps You Succeed In A Job Interview And Your Career. Did it Help you During your Interview? How?

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The ability to engage in small talk is a superpower for succeeding in a job interview and advancing your career growth. The term refers to initiating and holding a light and casual conversation. It’s a smart way to break the ice at the start of an interview, during a meeting or when interacting with executives and clients.

The goal of small talk is to quickly ingratiate yourself with the person with whom you’re speaking. You want to set the stage that you are highly interested in the meeting or conversation and can make others feel relaxed. People generally like to do business with folks that they feel comfortable with.

Do Your Research

A good hack is to do your homework before engaging in small talk. Look up the hiring manager or corporate leader you have to meet on LinkedIn and other social media sites. You’ll get a sense of their interests, where they went to school, prior jobs and additional information that will help you gain a picture of the person and what would be the suitable topics to bring up.

Ask your network to see if anyone knows the person you’re meeting with and for them to share some insider information. This way, you come into the meeting knowing a lot about the person, which will help make you feel more comfortable and confident.

 

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We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

How To Get Started

To win with small talk during a job interview, prepare some conversation starters, be cheerful and polite and practice active listening and empathy. By mastering the art of small talk, you can increase your chances of winning a job interview and fast-tracking your career.

Small talk can help build rapport with the interviewer and make them feel more comfortable, creating a positive first impression. It can demonstrate social skills, such as active listening, empathy and humor, which are highly valued in the workplace. Having or learning the “gift of gab” or the ability to “schmooze” can show that you are likable and enjoy interacting with people.

Chatting up an interviewer and giving specific information that could only have been gleaned from doing a lot of homework shows that you are highly interested in the company, demonstrating that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.

 

What Topics To Bring Up

You should bring up low-key, non-polarizing topics to build rapport when engaging in small talk. It’s the equivalent of dipping your toes in the water before diving in. You want to break the ice by raising different types of non-controversial topics, such as the weather, your commute into the office, sports, a new movie, why you respect the organization, or some trending topic everyone is discussing. It’s also helpful to play “people geography,” figuring out people you know in common.

Doing this lets you slowly get to know the other person and find commonalities, setting the stage for a long-term relationship. Ultimately, you’ll hit on something that resonates with your counterpart, and the conversation will start flowing. The key is to come across as sincere, genuine, upbeat, motivated and happy to be in the meeting or conversation.

How To Do Small Talk

For many people, engaging in conversation with someone they’ve never met before is difficult. It’s reasonable to feel awkward initiating a conversation with a stranger. You might be afraid that when you try to make that connection, the hiring manager, senior executive or important client will not reciprocate, and you’ll feel uncomfortable.

Like anything else, the more you practice, the better you become. Role-play light-hearted conversations with people you know. Then, graduate to approaching strangers and chatting them up. I always do this to improve my communication skills and learn what cold introductions work and what doesn’t go over well.

My wife and daughter habitually compliment other women over their nice outfits, jewelry, eyeglasses or something else they appreciate. Every time that happens, I see the eyes of the recipient of the compliment light up, and it makes their day. A brief, lovely conversation stems from the initial praise, improving the mood of all parties involved.

During the conversation, practice active listening. Nod your head if the person says something you agree with. Use their name a few times and treat them as if they are the most important person in the world at that time. Ask open-ended questions to engage the other person in a dialogue, as you don’t want to dominate the entire conversation.

Don’t dwell too much on the small talk, as the interviewer may get irritated, as they want to get to the meat of the conversation. At what feels like the appropriate time, subtly segue into why you’re there.

Forbes.com Author:   Jack Kelly Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website or some of my other work here.
Forbes.com | July 27, 2023

#JobInterview : How To Answer ‘Do You Have Any Questions For Me?’ In A Job Interview. Got Interview? MUst REAd First!

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Job seekers are advised to ask questions at the end of an interview to show interest in the opportunity. The challenge is that most candidates worry so much about what to ask that they can’t focus on the actual discussion happening right before them.

To ameliorate the anxiety, you should have a few questions ready when the interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for me?”

Here is what you should say to demonstrate your interest in the role and some suggested insightful questions you can ask the interviewer.

Let Them Know You Are Interested In The Job

Before you ask any questions, use the wrapping-up phase of the interview to sum up your take on the process and express your genuine interest, citing examples. You can tell the interviewer, “I greatly enjoyed our conversation. Everyone I met was wonderful. I appreciate that you all have been open and honest about the job responsibilities, the corporate culture, what’s happening with hiring and layoffs, the organization’s financial situation and where the company is headed next. I am very interested in the opportunity and would like to know a little more about the process.”

 

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We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

Avoid Questions That Are Easily Answered On The Firm’s Site

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview is a simple way to show your enthusiasm for the job and to gather more information about the company and the role. The questions you ask should not be easily answered by researching the company’s website or other readily available resources.

Tailor your questions to demonstrate your enthusiasm about the role and the company while gaining valuable insights to help you make an informed decision if an offer is extended. The best questions to ask are focused and open-ended. Avoid “yes” or “no” questions and any inquiry that is too broad.

Here Are Thought-Provoking Questions To Ask

  • Do you feel that I’m the right fit for the role?
  • Why did you decide to choose me for the interview?
  • Is there any additional information you need to help you decide on my candidacy?
  • What are the most important qualities you’re looking for in a candidate for this role?
  • What are the expectations for this role in the first 30, 60 and 90 days?
  • What made you join the company? What do you like most about working for this organization?

Learning About The Company

  • Can you please tell me more about this role’s day-to-day responsibilities and expectations?
  • Will the role be remote, in-office or hybrid?
  • How does the company support work-life balance for its employees?
  • How would you describe the company culture, DEI initiatives and values?
  • In light of a possible recession, high inflation and geopolitical uncertainty, do you foresee any challenges or layoffs in the future?
  • Can you tell me about the team I’ll be working with?

Ascertaining The Next Steps

  • If you were to extend an offer, what would be the ballpark salary, bonus, stock options and corporate title?
  • Can you share more about the next steps in the hiring process and the anticipated timeline for a decision?
  • Could you provide any success stories or examples of employees in this or a similar role and how they’ve progressed within the organization?

Forbes.com Author: Jack Kelly –  Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website or some of my other work here.

 

Forbes.com | June 2, 2023

#JobSearch : Confidence Taking A Hit? 5 Signs It’s Not You, It’s Your Job Search. Great Check List. Which Area(s) Do You Fall Into?

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Before you started your job search, you probably felt optimistic, confident and hopeful. After all, with the experience you have under your belt and your track record for success, you might have thought landing a new job might take time but it shouldn’t be too hard. Now fast forward months later, and you can hardly recognize that confident version of yourself anymore.

But, it’s not uncommon for your confidence to waver during the job search process. As a career coach to corporate high-achievers, I hear from top performers who, despite their years of experience and skills, happen to feel the same way while job searching. However, rather than questioning your worth and picking apart your capabilities, it might be time to focus on how you’re approaching your job search instead. Because, it actually might be your job search that needs fine-tuning.

Here are five signs to help you determine if your job search is the real culprit:

You don’t have a solid idea of what you’d like to do next.

A lack of clear direction is one of the biggest detriments to your job search. Without a solid idea of the type of roles, responsibilities and companies worth your time and energy, you can easily get distracted and waste your time on opportunities that don’t yield the results you’re looking for in your career.

You might even start to mistakenly believe that you can’t have a better job or that you must start over to land a new role when the real problem is you haven’t taken the time to get clear on which type of opportunities you’d like to pursue. On the other hand, gaining clarity will not only help you tailor your job search, but it’ll also increase your confidence in finding the right fit for you.

 

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What Skill Sets Do You have to be ‘Sharpened‘?

Did you know?  First Sun Consulting, Llc (FSC) is celebrating over 32 years in delivering corporate & individual outplacement services & programs to over 1200 corporate clients in the U.S., Canada, the UK, & Mexico!   Visit & contact us @ www.firstsun.com

We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

You spend most of your time constantly applying to jobs.

Gone are the days when you could “spray and pray” and hope for the best. Not only is blindly applying ineffective, but it can also quickly erode your confidence when those countless job applications turn into countless rejection emails. Before you know it, you’re convinced that no one wants to hire you.

So, rather than applying to as many jobs as possible, take a more targeted and selective approach. Be strategic and intentional about which jobs you choose to apply to and don’t be afraid to skip over the ones that don’t align with your career goals, expertise and interests. By only applying to jobs you really love, you’ll find that you’ll feel more confident putting yourself out there and more excited to demonstrate how your skills align with the needs of the role and organization.

Your resume sounds more like a job description.

Your resume is one of the best ways to market your skills, value and experience; it shouldn’t be a collection of past items on your daily to-do lists. So, if you can’t tell the difference between your resume and a job posting, then that’s a sure sign that you might not be standing out from the crowd when applying for new positions.

To fix this, you need to shift your focus from duties to achievements. Understanding the impact you’ve made throughout your career and communicating that on your resume in a relevant way will not only help you stop second-guessing yourself, but will also help you catch the attention of the right employers who want what you have to offer.

Your LinkedIn profile isn’t clear or compelling enough.

Sure, when you were content in your current job, you could get by with a lackluster or even nonexistent LinkedIn profile. But now that you’re ready for a new job, in today’s digital world, a vague LinkedIn profile is not going to attract your dream companies.

For example, without a confident and compelling LinkedIn profile, recruiters actively looking for top talent either won’t find you or won’t be inspired to interview you when they stumble upon your profile. Not to mention, if hiring managers look you up after reviewing your application and don’t see a coherent and consistent message on your LinkedIn profile, they might move on to the next candidate. So, invest the time and energy to optimize your LinkedIn profile so that you can open doors to new career opportunities.

You don’t know how to talk about your skills and expertise.

While you’ve likely spent tons of time developing your skills, building your track record, and excelling in your career, you probably haven’t spent as much time talking about your skills and expertise. So, rather than doubting yourself or assuming you aren’t good enough for the roles you want, you need to focus on getting better at communicating the value you bring to the table with clarity and ease.

As you get more comfortable talking about your track record, accomplishments and skill sets, you’ll feel more confident and exude more confidence during interviews and networking conversations, which will ultimately inspire others to want to help you and hire you.

Of course, it’s tempting to judge yourself or criticize your personal shortcomings when your job search isn’t going the way you hoped. But landing a new job isn’t about changing who you are–it’s about elevating how you present yourself so your ideal companies understand exactly why they need you. By taking the focus off yourself and reassessing your job search strategy, you will feel even more in control of your career journey, and you’ll boost your chances of standing out and getting hired for the roles you desire and deserve.

Forbes.com Author:  Adunola Adeshola :  Adunola Adeshola coaches corporate high-achievers on how to take their careers to the next level. She is the author of the guide How to Go From Zero Interviews to Dream Job Offers.
Forbes.com | July 20, 2023

 

#JobSearch : How To Overcome Job-Search Depression. Job Hunting is Hard, Even During the Best of Times. How Did your Job Search Affect You?

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Job hunting is hard, even during the best of times. In a tough market, it makes matters worse, and the pressure intensifies if you are in between roles. When you have been let go and haven’t secured a new job after some time, it’s natural that you’ll start feeling anxious, afraid, and depressed.

The constant rejection and roller coaster ride of ups and downs wreak havoc on your mental health and emotional well-being. Countless days of scouring job boards, submitting résumés and not hearing back can make you feel drained, discouraged and despondent.

Job-search depression sets in and, if left unattended, can lead to negative consequences. However, there are ways to push back. Try to maintain a positive mindset. Take care of your physical and emotional health, seek social support and focus on what you can control. Summon up the strength to get up when knocked down, brush yourself off and forge ahead, knowing there will still be headwinds.

 

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Answer: Simply go to our FSC Career Blog below & Type (Jobsearch, Resume, Networking, etc) in Blog Search:  https://www.firstsun.com/fsc-career-blog/

What Skill Sets Do You have to be ‘Sharpened‘?

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We here at FSC want to thank each of our corporate partners for the opportunity to serve & moving each of their transitioning employee(s) rapidly toward employment!

 

Article continued …

The Symptoms Of Job-Search Depression

There are signs you should look out for when monitoring your mental health during this transition period. Symptoms of job-search depression include lacking motivation to apply for new roles, attending interviews thinking that it’s a futile waste of time and feeling defeated and worthless because all you’ve been receiving are rejections or getting ghosted.

If you are constantly worrying about the future, feeling fatigued, becoming socially withdrawn, getting easily irritated, losing interest in everything and ruminating over negative thoughts, it may be time to talk with someone.

Constant Rejection Takes A Toll

Unfortunately, job-search depression is a vicious cycle. Interviewers want to hire a person who is upbeat, positive and enthusiastic. They are looking for someone likable and who comes across as a winner. The problem is that constantly dealing with rejection makes it challenging to come across as confident. It’s understandable that after being ghosted so many times, it’s hard to summon the strength to keep going. The hiring manager will pick up on your negative vibe and your depleted self-confidence, and since there are so many other applicants, they’ll just move on to the next person.

It’s hard to handle rejection when worrying about your financial situation and how you’ll pay the bills, rent or mortgage. After submitting dozens of résumés and completing lengthy, annoying and glitchy applications every day without hearing back, it’s nearly impossible to stay positive. It’s devastating when you think you did exceptionally well in an interview and haven’t heard back after several weeks. If you’re stuck in the same role at work, and no one is giving you a chance, it’s hard to keep making it through the day.

What You Can Do Now

You are not alone, as nearly everyone has gone through what you’re dealing with. Almost anyone who has been in the workforce for any length of time has been rejected for a coveted role, lost out to an office rival for a lucrative promotion or got ghosted after a long series of interviews. Even the most successful people still deal with bouts of doubt and losing streaks.

If your actions aren’t working, it’s time to try something different. Refine and improve your résumé and LinkedIn profile. Consult with a career coach, mentor, résumé writer and recruiter to get their respective opinions. Ask them for their honest evaluation, constructive criticism and feedback. Process what they have to say and put into action the noted alterations.

If you haven’t done so already, start cultivating a network of people who can help you find the appropriate people at the target companies you’re interested in. Take a hard look at your social media footprint to ensure you haven’t posted content that casts you in a poor light. Prepare and practice an elevator pitch to be ready to sell yourself in a calm, cool and collected manner. Role-play frequently asked interview questions, so you’ll easily answer them. Have several questions at your ready when the interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions for me?”

Stop dwelling on the past. Shut the door on what has already happened and focus on the now. Start with a clean slate. Replace the negative feedback loop in your head with all of your great qualities, achievements and the times you’ve overcome obstacles. Slowly but surely, you’ll regain your confidence. Then, it will only be a matter of time until you finally get that great new job.

Forbes.com Author:  Jack Kelly –  Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website or some of my other work here.
Forbes.com | July 19, 2023