How to Put a Positive Spin on Your Employment Gaps

Job Search
How to Put a Positive Spin on Your Employment Gaps

Job gaps are a chapter of life that nearly all employed workers will experience at some time. For personal reasons, economic reasons, or other reasons, occasionally job gaps can be stigmatized by prospective hiring executives. In the proper light, however, you can turn those job gaps into effective, positive differentiators that prove your endurance, flexibility, and skills acquired. Here’s how to put a positive spin on your employment gaps into a powerful component of your professional story, complete with examples.

Embrace Your Employment Gaps

The primary and foremost step to making an employment gap work in your favor is to accept it.

Whether it be that you were at home raising a child, had taken a break to nurse a family member, were traveling, undertook other studies, or even utilized the time to address health concerns, an acceptance of these facts can actually make your resume more human and make you more relatable to potential employers.

Example: Sarah, a marketing professional, had, in fact, stayed at home for two years to care for aging parents.

Rather than try to disguise this break in her work history, she put it on her resume and explained skills she had gained as a care provider, like patience, time management, and empathy (all great “soft skills”).

These attributes translate into just about any career situation, and Sarah was using them to demonstrate her well-rounded abilities.

Emphasize Skill Development

Employment gaps can also be an opportunity to gain by way of experience, both personal and professional.

If you utilized that time to undertake some courses, learn a new skill, volunteer, or get involved in something that can contribute to your growth as an individual, mention those in your resume and cover letter.

Example: John, who worked as an information technology specialist, got laid off and experienced one year of unemployment.

During his unemployed year, John took online courses on cybersecurity, volunteered at a local non-profit by doing installations of secure networks for that non-profit, and attended seminars in his profession.

When he applied for new jobs, John was able to add to his resume his proactive measures to keep up with industry trends and his demonstration of lifelong learning.

Use Freelance and Independent Contract Work

Freelance and contract employment that is done in between jobs can demonstrate a lot of initiative and commitment on your part. 

You can also get diverse clients and projects which will be added to your resume as well as your professional portfolio. Highlighting this type of work can be a simple yet effective way to put a positive spin on your employment gaps. 

Example: Maria was a graphic designer who had freelanced for the past 18 months after she had moved to a new city.

She had been working with several small businesses in the city during that time, which allowed her to do website design and branding.

She also used these in her portfolio, which showcased her versatility and ability to meet the needs of several different clients.

It also showcased that she had worked actively in the past 18 months of her career, even if she was not in a traditional full-time job.

How to Put a Positive Spin on Your Employment Gaps

Emphasize Transferable Skills

Acknowledge that sometimes, the gaps in employment can translate into having diverse experiences in other areas or types of work.

Actually, demonstrate the skills you learned during your time off that may get transferred and be applied in the position you want to occupy at your disposal.

Example:  For instance, there was Alex, a former teacher who had taken three years out of the field to try to start a small business of his own.

Despite his business’s eventual failure, while it was in operation, Alex learned valuable life skills in project management, marketing, budgeting, and customer service.

When he returned to the field of education, Alex was able to use these skills as a foundation on which to show how they would work as a means to help augment his administrative and teaching skills.

Put A Positive Spin On The Gaps

When speaking of these gaps in interviews or in cover letters, frame the gaps positively. Talk instead of where you were able to travel during that time, not of the gap itself.

Example: Emily, a project manager, had been away for a year traveling and experiencing new and different cultures.

Rather than stating her travel experience, she stated how her year out helped her enhance her cultural learning , develop her problem-solving skills, and diversity in her capacity to work with all types of work teams.

Such a positive connotation said that her experience away from work was a learning experience and added to her professional value.

 

Network and Seek Recommendations

Networking can also work as a effective means of describing and justifying your employment gaps with a positive spin.

Ask for recommendations from those with whom you worked during the period of employment gap, which may include your freelance clients, volunteer coordinators, and even your course instructors.

Example: Raj, an engineer, took a leave of two years to complete his Master in Environmental Engineering.

In the interim, he volunteered with a few environmental organizations and managed to get a few projects completed.

He sought recommendations from his professors and volunteers’ coordinators, who could vouch for his hard work and skills.

Such recommendations helped cover up the gap in his work experience and added a good endorsement of his capability.

Demonstrate Resilience within the Gap

Sometimes, employment gaps can be due to trying times. Instead, make them a time of showcasing your strength and ability to thrive over hard times.

Most employers are looking for this characteristic since it lets them know that you can handle challenging times, can adjust, and respond even stronger.

Example:  Lisa, as a sales manager, had a debilitating health condition that left her with a large gap in employment.

She detailed, in her job applications what work she had undertaken to stay up-to-date with industry changes while she was unemployed.  She was then able to market her resilience, focus, and commitment to her career, taking what might be a detrimental gap and turning it into a tale of personal resilience and career determination.

 

Add the Context in Your CV

Having a small mention about the employment gaps in your resume itself can, in some way, provide some context for the prospective employers to work upon.

It can help in preventing some misunderstanding and in making you look as transparent with nothing to hide. Put it out there. Let them know there was a gap.

Example: Mark, a software engineer, had a layoff that led to a nine-month employment gap.

He wrote a brief note in his cover letter detailing the layoff and what he had been doing during the gap period, like making contributions to open-source projects and completing a cloud computing certification.

The honesty made the prospective employers visualize the gap and what he did to remain relevant in his field of career.

 

How to Put a Positive Spin on Your Employment Gaps

 

Reframe The Narrative

Reframing your story means shifting the emphasis from the gap to the growth and accomplishments during the gap period.

This can help you draft an engaging story concurrent with your career objective.

Example: Laura had a two-year break from a position as a financial analyst to start a family.

She did so by highlighting the financial planning and budgeting skills she acquired during this time and the online financial modeling courses she enrolled in during that time.

By highlighting the personal and professional development she was engaging in during this time, Laura was able to construct a positive and forward-looking narrative.

 

Get ready for Questions in the Interview

Being able to provide answers to questions relating to any gaps in your employment is very important.

Practice your responses to ensure they are concise, honest, and put a positive spin on the experience.

Example: Responding in an interview to being asked about the two-year hole in his resume, software engineer James spoke about how he had spent those two years indulging his love of travel, as well as freelancing on coding projects he was interested in.

He spoke of the varied range of projects that he was exposed to, the range of programming languages he had to learn, and how, as a result, he became a more rounded developer.

In plotting that information in a well-prepared response, he took what might have been a red flag and made it so that he was still keeping engaged as a professional.

 

Landing the Job

Gaps in employment need not dissuade you from your career.

On the other hand, you must derive the maximum benefit from the same

By recognizing the gap, concentrating on skill acquisition, using freelance to your advantage, carving out transferable skills, positioning the gap positively, building networks, demonstrating resilience, providing the context in the resume, recasting your story, and preparing for the interview questions, you will be in a position to make the employment gaps a very potent tool and be able to put a positive spin on your situation.

Not only do the strategies minimize the visibility of the gaps, they can also make the gap very attractive and beneficial to the overall professional development.

Once again, please remember that everybody has a unique career and the employment gaps are nothing but mere chapters in the professional story.

If properly handled, the gaps can be a good story to illustrate your adaptability, never-ending learning, and resilience in any situation, making you a very attractive option to the prospective employer.

Are you ready to elevate your career? Learn more about our professional resume packages here. 

Navigating Rejection: Tips for Handling Feedback in Your Job Search

Job Search
navigating rejection

The journey of job searching may be laced with times of hope and, on the other side of the coin, feel like waters that often swirl out of control. Navigating rejection is one of the most dreaded occurrences during this process. Whether it’s radio silence from a would-be employer or a blunt “no,” rejection is the brutal reality of looking for work. But it also might be some of the best growing and learning experiences. I know– I’ve learned from mine.

Here are some strategies for how to handle the feedback and rejection from your job search, turning those setbacks into stepping stones toward your goals for your career.

How to Make Sense of Rejection in the Job Market

First, it’s crucial to recognize that navigating rejection is not a reflection of your worth as a person or professional.
I was crushed the first time I was rejected from a job I really wanted. I let it get to me, it affected my job search for a solid week, and I let it control my feelings about myself.
The job market is influenced by numerous factors beyond your control, such as timing, the specific needs of a company, and the pool of applicants. Sometimes, rejection speaks less of your qualifications and more of the lack of fit. Maintaining such a perspective can assist you in not losing confidence and resilience in the face of rejection.

Embracing Feedback

Take the notion of feedback from the premise that when you receive the feedback, negative or positive, you receive it as a gift. Constructive criticism can provide invaluable insights into areas for improvement, whether it’s your resume, interview skills, or certain qualifications. If feedback is not automatically provided, don’t hesitate to ask for it politely. Use the information to refine your approach and make it a stronger candidacy for your next opportunities.

Building Resilience

Building resilience is like your emotional armor in the job search. It includes adopting a growth mindset where every experience is taken as an opportunity for learning and development. So, pat yourself on the back for every effort and all the progress you’ve made, not only the outcomes. Be compassionate with yourself and remember that persistence is what will finally make your efforts pay off toward your career goals. Be patient.

Fine-Tuning Your Approach

Use rejection as another chance to reassess and fine-tune the areas of your job search that may not be working. Look for patterns in the feedback; all the comments seem to be leading toward only a few themes. What are the skills or experiences that you could fill in more detail? Is there any gap in your resume that you want to fill? The intention of this self-analysis is that with the realization, it will be possible to make targeted improvements in your job search approach so that you emerge stronger as a candidate in the race. What do I really want to do? How can I stand out as the obvious choice?

Networking and Mentorship

Developing a supportive network of family, friends, and professionals helps in receiving emotional and practical advice. Look for mentors who can guide and review your application documents and provide insights into your target industry. In addition, networking could act as a source of new opportunities by way of relationships, perhaps for job leads more befitting.

Expansion

Sometimes, even a rejection can be a time to broaden your scope. Look at related fields and even opportunities where you could gain that advancement knowledge, and be open to the possibility of more education if it is in line with reaching your ultimate career goal. You can do this to make yourself more well-rounded and appealing to prospective employers. Thinking of getting that certification? Do it!

Staying Positive and Healthy

Maintaining a positive outlook is crucial, but it’s equally important to look after your mental and physical health while navigating rejection. Job searching can be stressful, so engage in activities that boost your well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones. A healthy balance can keep you motivated and reduce the toll of rejection.
Back when my first rejection hit me, it was in the Fall. That is when I learned to can. During that job search and rejection time, I canned tomatoes, salsa, pickles, applesauce, pears, and so much more. It relaxed me AND it made me feel productive even though my job search wasn’t productive.

Persistence Pays Off

Remember the power of persistence. Every ‘no’ is bringing you closer to the ‘yes’ of destiny. Stay committed to your job search but be flexible in your approach. Be ready to learn, change, and jump at new opportunities. Navigating rejection isn’t always a straight path.

Learning from Success Stories

Find motivation from the success stories of people who have received rejections but later on have been hired in the company of their dreams. It may have helpful advice and motivation for moving forward. Knowing that even the very successful professionals have been rejected many times could make it normal and foster tenacity. ‘They’ve been through this, and look where they are now!’

Get Professional Help

If rejection is taking a toll on your confidence or even mental well-being, then consider seeking assistance from either career counselors (hello there!) or mental health professionals. They would provide techniques with which to deal with rejection, measures to make your job search better, and ways to handle stress.

Conclusion

While navigating rejections within your job search can surely be difficult, it is also an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. Practice embracing feedback, bouncing back, refining your strategy, and staying positively healthy in mind and body, and you’ll turn rejection into an incredible force for moving your career forward. Remember, every “no” is a step closer to the “yes” that will open the door to new professional adventures. Keep learning, adapting, and persisting—your perseverance will pay off.

6 Common Fears Experienced When Facing a Career Change, and How to Tackle Them: Embracing the Spooky Season of Transition

Job Search
Two corporate professionals trying to navigate career change trapped on an elevator with zombies trying to attack on Halloween

Ah, the crisp rustle of leaves underfoot 🍂, the aroma of pumpkin spice lingering in the air 🎃, and of course, the Halloween candy 🍫🍬 and scary movies 😱 – it’s that magical time of the year again. To fully embrace the spooky season, I wanted to venture into the eerie realm of career change, unraveling the six most common fears that tend to send shivers down the spines of many professionals I encounter. Here, I will illuminate the path, offering strategies on how to vanquish these fears and embrace the transformative power of change. So let’s dive in. What are six of the most common fears experienced when facing a career change? 

Career Change Fear #1:  The Unknown

The fog of uncertainty often cloaks the road to career change, paralyzing even the most daring souls. The best way to combat the unknown: education and research. Delve into new career paths, explore diverse industries, and identify your transferable skills. There are many online resources out there to help you discover different executive roles, helping you narrow down exactly what you are looking for. Additionally, if you still find yourself wandering aimlessly, career counseling and professional resume services can help point you in the right direction.

Career Change Fear #2: Financial Instability

👻 A specter that frequently haunts the minds of transitioning professionals is the fear of financial instability. Worry not brave traveler! To fight this fear, we can borrow from the Boy Scouts’ simple but important motto: Be Prepared. Plan meticulously; budget wisely for the transition period. Evaluate your skills – the treasure trove of expertise acquired over years can often unlock doors in unexpected places. Seek industries that value executive experience, where the skills you have are exactly the ones for witch (see what I did there? 😉)  they are searching.

Career Change Fear #3: Rejection

In the eerie silence of job applications, the fear of rejection can echo loudly. Quell the fear with the power of self-assurance. Build your confidence, craft resumes that speak volumes about your capabilities, and sharpen your interview skills. If you’re not sure where to start, we are happy to be your ally, ensuring your skills shine brightly, banishing the shadows of doubt.

Career Change Fear #4: Skill Obsolescence

Amidst the rapid evolution of the job market, the fear of skill obsolescence lurks. It’s a valid concern, and anxieties on this subject abound among many of my clients. How do we fight this? Knowledge. Enroll in online courses, gain certifications, and embrace professional development. Once accomplished, shout your accomplishments from the rooftops! Enhance your resume and LinkedIn profile with these newfound skills. 

Career Change Fear #5: Work-Life Balance Disruption

It can be hard to break away from a job that is no longer satisfying your career goals but has allowed for a healthy work-life balance. In the labyrinth of career change, maintaining that balance can feel like a daunting task, especially for executives navigating a career change. The key is to remember to manage your time efficiently, set boundaries, and seek the support of loved ones. 

Career Change Fear #6: Losing Professional Identity

As the career metamorphosis begins, the fear of losing one’s professional identity and status can cast a daunting shadow. But remember: change often means growth! Embrace the change; let it be your cocoon of transformation. Focus on personal and professional growth, recognize that identities can evolve, and draw inspiration from success stories. Change also doesn’t mean you have to leave your “old self” behind. Build on the solid foundation you’ve already formed, never forgetting the challenges you’ve already overcome and the skills you’ve gained while facing those challenges. 

As we bid adieu to the spine-chilling tales of career change fears, remember this – the night may be dark, but each fear is but a flickering candle waiting to be reignited. Embrace the challenges, seek guidance, and let your fears be the stepping stones to your triumphant career change. Dare to change, for in the embrace of transformation, you’ll find the true essence of your professional self. So, my friend, step boldly into the unknown, and let the adventure of your career change begin – for in every shadow, there’s a chance for brilliant illumination.



Why Rejection And Failure Are Part of the Executive Job Search Process

Job Search
Discouraged woman looks at computer after getting rejected while on executive job search

Embarking on the journey to secure an executive-level position is no small feat. It’s a path paved with ambition, years of hard work, and an unquenchable thirst for success. However, this journey often takes unexpected turns, including rejection and failure. In this post, I want to delve into a reality that many executives face but rarely discuss openly – the inevitability of rejection and failure in the executive job search process. I like to remind my clients that though these challenges feel like roadblocks at the time, in the long run, they are essential stepping stones toward their ultimate career goals.

The Reality of the Executive Job Search

The executive job market is an arena of fierce competition and unique demands. It’s a realm where qualifications, experience, and expertise are merely the entry tickets, not the guarantees. Executive roles often come with stringent requirements, and the search for the perfect fit can be daunting. The reality is that rejection and failure are not exclusive to those who lack skills; they can happen to even the most accomplished professionals. Recognizing this is the first step in navigating this complex landscape.

Understanding and Managing Rejection

Rejection isn’t just about professional setbacks; it can take a toll on your emotions and confidence. It’s natural to feel disheartened and discouraged when you’re turned away from a position you’ve set your sights on. To cope with rejection and maintain confidence, consider strategies like seeking support from your network, focusing on your accomplishments, and practicing self-compassion. These emotional coping mechanisms are vital in the executive job search journey. Keep an accomplishments journal (or create one) with your wins and if you’re feeling down, review the successes you’ve had. 

Dealing with these emotions is no easy task – rejection can be a bitter pill to swallow! But it’s also a powerful teacher. When coveted executive roles slip through your fingers, it’s essential to view them as an opportunity for growth. Rejection often comes with valuable feedback, shedding light on areas where you can improve. Whether it’s a missing skillset or a specific qualification, these insights can guide your efforts to become a stronger candidate.

Embracing Failure While Searching For Executive Roles

Failure is often portrayed as the opposite of success, but in reality, it’s an integral part of the journey towards it. Many (if not all) successful executives have faced setbacks and failures along the way. These experiences, while painful, can serve as stepping stones to greater achievements. They offer lessons that cannot be learned any other way. The old adage “sometimes you just have to learn the hard way” is true for a reason. Embrace that and remember that you’re not alone in this experience.

Navigating failure also helps develop your resilience. The ability to bounce back from adversity stronger than before is a quality that every executive needs in their toolkit. When failure knocks on your door, resilience is your shield. Strategies for building resilience include cultivating a growth mindset, seeking support from mentors, and staying focused on your long-term goals. Resilience doesn’t eliminate failure, but it equips you to rise above it.

Strategies for Navigating Rejection and Failure

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Staying current in your field is not only a professional necessity but also a strategic move to reduce rejection. The job market constantly evolves, and executives who adapt to these changes are more likely to succeed. Continuous learning and adapting to market trends can make you a more attractive candidate. Additionally, having a plan for continuing education regardless of the amount of rejection faced while on your executive job search will give you a purpose and boost your confidence. 

Seeking Feedback and Mentorship

After a rejection, don’t hesitate to seek feedback! Understanding why you were not selected will provide valuable insights for improvement. Take that feedback and add it to your plan of continuing education. Mentorship also plays a critical role in gaining guidance and perspective from experienced professionals who have navigated similar challenges. Reach out to people who have been in your shoes and come out the other side. LinkedIn is a great tool for connecting to those in executive roles for guidance. 

Perseverance and Tenacity

In the face of rejection and failure, perseverance is your most valuable weapon. Keep your eyes on your goals, stay motivated, and remember that setbacks are not permanent! The ability to persevere is often what sets successful executives apart from the rest.

In the executive job search process, rejection and failure are not signs of inadequacy; they are part of the journey. Embrace them as opportunities to learn and grow. I understand the complexities of the executive job market and am here to support you every step of the way. Always remember this: rejection and failure are not roadblocks; they are the stepping stones that will lead you to your next executive success.

Am I Being Ghosted? Real Reasons Why You Aren’t Getting a Callback After Applying for a Job

Job Search
Frustrated business man with head resting on crossed arms on desk staring at open laptop awaiting callback for executive job position

If you have spent any amount of time in today’s job market, you likely understand the frustration that comes from sending your resume and application into the great oblivion that is the internet and never hearing back. It’s such a common scenario, that we’ve gotten feedback from many job seekers who are excited to even receive an email informing them that the company has gone in a different direction. “At least this means that somebody saw my application!” If any of this sounds familiar, you’ve fallen prey to the all too common phenomenon that is job application ghosting, and I am here to help! In this blog post, I will delve into the reasons behind why you are not getting a callback after applying for a job – 👻 aka getting ghosted – and offer valuable insights to help you improve your chances of receiving that coveted callback for your dream job position.

Common Reasons for Job Application Ghosting:

Competitive Job Market and High Volume of Applications

The executive job market is highly competitive, with numerous qualified (and unqualified, for that matter) candidates vying for limited positions. I think employers are often overwhelmed by the volume of resumes they receive, making it challenging for them to respond to every candidate. To stand out from the crowd, it’s essential to have a resume that captures attention, showcases your unique value proposition, and why you are the most qualified for that position.

Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Challenges

Applicant Tracking Systems play a crucial role in the initial applicant screening process. These automated systems scan resumes for relevant keywords and qualifications. To optimize your resume for ATS compatibility, it’s important to carefully tailor your cover letter, resume, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable) by strategically incorporating keywords that are applicable to your desired executive position. Need help navigating the ATS landscape? That’s what I’m here for! Feel free to reach out.

Lack of Tailoring and Customization

Another common reason for job application ghosting is the failure to tailor your resume to the specific job requirements. I discussed the importance of adding relevant keywords for the sake of ATS, but the tailoring goes behind that. Employers are looking for candidates who demonstrate a clear alignment between their skills and the job description. By customizing your resume for each application, highlighting relevant experiences, and addressing specific job requirements, you significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by the human beings who will actually do the hiring.

Weak or Inconsistent Branding

Finally, your personal brand plays a crucial role in executive-level job applications. When an employer receives and views your application and resume, it’s highly likely that they will do some research on you. This is especially the case if you are applying for an executive role. It is very important that what they find matches your professional resume and application. A weak or inconsistent personal brand can hinder your chances of getting a callback. It’s important to carefully develop and consistently communicate your personal brand through your resume and online presence.

Strategies to Improve Callback Chances

Now that we’ve discussed some of the most common reasons you may be getting ghosted by potential employers, let’s talk about some practical steps you can take to improve your callback chances.

Networking and Personal Connections

Networking is a powerful tool in today’s job market. Building and leveraging professional connections can open doors to opportunities that may not be advertised publicly. It’s crucial to actively engage in networking activities, both online and offline, and align your resume with your networking efforts. LinkedIn is an excellent resource for online networking that can showcase your talents and personality and has worked well for many of our clients. By integrating networking strategies with your resume, you can increase your visibility and referral potential.

Following Up Appropriately

Following up after submitting a job application can demonstrate your enthusiasm and professionalism. However, it’s important to approach follow-up with tact and precision. Craft a professional follow-up message that expresses your continued interest in the position without appearing pushy.

Professional Resume Writing Services

One highly effective strategy to increase your callback chances is to enlist the services of professional resume writers. Professional resume writing services offer expertise in crafting high-quality executive resumes that leave a lasting impression. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of executive-level applications, ATS, and what employers are looking for, experienced writers can effectively tailor your resume to showcase your unique skills and achievements.

There is no doubt that job application ghosting is an extremely frustrating and discouraging part of the job search, but understanding the reasons behind it can help you take proactive steps to improve your callback chances. Tailoring your resume, optimizing it for ATS compatibility, strengthening your personal branding, leveraging networking, and following up appropriately are all essential components of a successful job search strategy. By utilizing these tips (and more), I have seen much success in overcoming the ghosts of dream-jobs past, present, and future!

Don’t Give Up The Job Search Just Because The Holidays Are Near

Job Search

I’ve been talking with job seekers lately who ask whether they should job search right now or wait until after the New Year.

The holidays are upon us and many worry it isn’t a good time.🎅

But–there are many benefits to continuing on with your job search.

🎄 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐛𝐮𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐬. Companies have new budgets in place to entice and hire #candidates. They are still #hiring and actively looking.

🎄 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. Your competition is less since many people decide to hold off until the new year. Plus, you will impress companies with your dedication and commitment.

🎄 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞. Things are winding down at your company due to the holidays and end of the year, so you have more time to focus on #job search

🎄 𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐬. People are generally in better moods around the holidays. More time off, seeing family and friends (via remotely this year, unfortunately), shopping, and reflection. It’s a perfect time to reach out and start a #conversation.

I asked career professionals on LinkedIn what their thoughts were on the subject. Read what they have to say:

Hannah Morgan, Job Search Strategist, Career Sherpa:  November and December are great months for conversations and you are so right, many companies are either trying to fill roles that are still vacant now or line up candidates to hire Jan. 1. Don’t put on the brakes!

Ed Han, Talent Acquisition Geek, Recruiter:  As a corporate recruiter: let me reassure your readers & followers that if the job posting is up, I AM READING APPLICATIONS.
Scheduling interviews may take longer, but if it’s open, that hiring manager has funds earmarked towards that hire and is anxious to use them, because they’ll get asked if they really need the position or not by their boss, or their boss’s boss.

Nicole Reyes, Sn. Technical Recruiter: I’ve noticed that many hiring managers want new hires to start in January of the new year, which means they’re willing to schedule interviews with candidates this time of year. It’s worth your time to search for a position during this period, even if the search is a bit slower because people will be out of the office more with the holidays.

Greg Roche, Career Transition Coach: Take your holiday card list and see who you can connect with in person. Send them a card too, but use this list as a way to get back in touch with people who are important to you, but likely haven’t talked to in a while. This helps you practice connecting and you never know where it might lead Erin.

Andrea Yacub Macek, Top Job Expert to Follow, Career Coach:  The best time to network, market, and job search is when you are ready to do so in your season of life. If you need to take a break, do so, and if you want to continue networking or job search, do so; there are always benefits. These are some significant reasons you asked Erin Kennedy to continue instead of stop.

Meg Applegate, Resume Writer, Hinge Resume: The holidays are a great time to check in with your network. Start conversations now, even if after the new year is your goal. You never know what can come of it,

Sarah Johnston, Executive Resume Writer, LinkedIn Branding: Great reminder, Erin Kennedy. Some managers have “use it or lose it” budgets and have positions that need to be filled before the end of the year.

Adrienne Tom, Executive Resume Writer: If a company really needs an employee, it doesn’t matter what time of year it is — they will be looking. Which means, you should be too.

Bottom line: Don’t give up. Keep looking. This is a GREAT time of year to look for a job. 🎄

 

 

 

Job Search Plans

Job Search

Does #cold calling a hiring manager cause you to hyperventilate? 😱


You’re not alone!

If you have a solid plan in place it can reduce anxiety, build your confidence, and increase your chances of success.

Here are some quick tips to get you there:

✔ 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 the company. Learn about their mission, goals, and the type of employees they hire.

✔ 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩 your questions. Write them down. Read them out loud until you feel confident.

✔ Use your 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤. See if you have a connection that would make a recommendation to the #hiring manager. Someone who can drop a little seed in the mind of the person you’ll be talking to.

✔ 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞 your data. Use a spreadsheet to track phone numbers, dates, messages left, and notes.

✔ 𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 your script. Bullet point info to include experience and type of position you are seeking.

✔ 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞. This will increase your confidence. Record yourself. Make your main points in one minute. Practice your elevator pitch.

✔ 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐝𝐚𝐲. Determine the best time to call, when people are less busy.

Having a plan increases your confidence, helps you feel prepared, and increases your chances of landing a job that much quicker.

Out With the Old and In with the New…LinkedIn Job Search Tips for 2022

Job SearchLinkedInSocial Marketing/Online Branding

If you’re planning on starting a new job search in 2022, you need to know that how you search for a job has changed greatly over the years. Whether you’re a new grad, management professional, seasoned executive, or C-Suite office holder, you need to ensure that you have the “dos” and “don’ts” of today’s job search necessities down to a science BEFORE you start your search. One necessary tool for today’s jobseekers is having an optimized LinkedIn profile! A few easy “dos” and “don’ts” to consider when preparing your LinkedIn profile for a job search….

URL:

  • DO customize your URL and put a link to your profile on your resume. If your name is already taken, use a middle initial, special numbers, or a credential to make your URL unique.
  • DON’T use the URL that LI assigns you when you create your initial profile.

PROFILE BANNER:

  • DO have a customized banner at the top of your profile. There are plenty of free sites to create a banner on, or, if you aren’t into doing your own thing, hire a designer to create one for you. This is where you can show a little personality on your profile while still looking like a professional.
  • DON’T use the LI default banner or your current company logo – if you are in a job search.

PROFILE PHOTO:

  • DO post a recent, professional-looking headshot of you (and ONLY you) in the photo.
  • DON’T post of photo of you cropped out of a group photo at an event or a photo of you from 20+ years ago – you don’t want to see shocked faces when you arrive for your interview!

NAME:

  • DO display your name as it appears on your resume and what you go by in the workplace. Add any relevant credentials after your name.
  • DON’T use a nickname or outdated maiden name just because that’s the name you had when you created your original profile.

HEADLINE:

  • DO create a branding statement for the top of your resume and in the headline section of your LI profile. Use descriptive, high-impact, and industry-specific keywords to communicate your brand. You have 220 characters to brand yourself here – make them count!
  • DON’T use your current job title (LI default) in your headline – ugh…so boring!

ABOUT:

  • DO include a targeted, keyword-saturated career summary at the beginning of your resume and in your LinkedIn profile (About) section. Remember to write toward the job/industry you’re targeting. You have 2,600 characters to write your story – use them to your advantage!
  • DON’T bypass this section – and don’t just make it paragraphs of boring text – readers will lose interest in you and your qualifications immediately. Use bullets to separate sections that give a brief synopsis of your skills, experience, and achievements. Show the value YOU can offer in one quick read!

EXPERIENCE:

  • DO put your most up to date and relevant information on your resume and LinkedIn profile. Include achievements in bullet lists and job titles that are in line with what is on your resume.
  • DON’T include your entire career history-only jobs that are relevant to your current career goals. Stay away from posting proprietary or confidential information in this section.

EDUCATION:

  • DO include all of your relevant degrees. Undergraduate, graduate, post-doctoral, etc.
  • DON’T include the years if you graduated 10+ years ago, or information about what you did in college unless it is pertinent and relevant.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:

  • DO list certifications/licenses that are relevant to your career goals. If you are currently in the process of getting a certification/license, then just add it with the expected date of receiving the credential.
  • DON’T list actual license numbers (hello identity fraud???) on LI or include outdated information that is no longer active (unless it matters if you had it in the past).

SKILLS:

  • DO use industry-specific keywords/skills on this list. Be descriptive and ensure that your skills are in line with your level, job skills, experience, etc. “Pin” your top 3 skills at the beginning of this section. LI does this automatically – you need to ensure that the top 3 are truly, well, the top 3!
  • DON’T list bland words like “Leader” or “Projects”. Focus on stronger terms – “Executive Leadership” or “Project Management”.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:

  • DO include your memberships in professional organizations (especially in industry-specific organizations). List your role in each organization (Member, Board Member, Committee Chair, etc.).
  • DON’T list organizations that you haven’t been affiliated with for years.

VOLUNTEER WORK:

  • DO include recent volunteer work or past work that may be relevant to your current job search goals. Include any leadership positions with organizations or special events you chaired.
  • DON’T put in volunteer work from 20+ years ago or if it was an event that was a one-hour commitment!

ADDITIONAL SECTIONS:

  • DO look at all the additional sections LI offers (Patents, Projects, Honors/Awards, Courses, Publications, Languages, etc.).
  • DON’T add a section just to add a section. You want to have relevant and informative content on your profile – not uninformative fluff that takes up space.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • DO give/request recommendations from clients, colleagues, supervisors, etc. Encourage those giving you recommendations to make them achievement/leadership-focused, so that the best you have is what they are talking about. You should have recommendations that are as current as possible.
  • DON’T use recommendations that are filled with typos or information that is outdated/unmeaningful.

SETTINGS:

  • DO check your settings and ensure that they are aligned with how you want to be seen, who you want to be able to see you, etc.
  • DON’T turn your profile completely off to public viewing. What’s the point of being on LI if nobody can see you?

DO make the profile unique to YOU. Make sure you can back up all the information you have put out there during an interview, and ultimately on the job for your next employer. DON’T take information from a friend’s or colleague’s profile or include skills/achievements that you can’t own. Your LinkedIn profile is a living document – keep it current and fresh. Finally – you have optimized the information on your profile, now you need to network! Engage with others by posting and commenting to get your name/profile seen by more people!