How To Conduct Your Own “Self Background Check”

I’ve provided a lot of valuable information in my blogs about the job search process, including a blog about Reference Checks and Background Checks. Go ahead and click on the link to be taken to the blog. You’ll find a lot of valuable information and resources that are a must have for every job seeker (and employer).

Today I’m excited to bring you something that I know you’re going to want to take advantage of. Did you know that you can do your own FREE background check? YES, you can!

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a free background check service called “Self Check.” I talk a lot about preparation! Well, this is another great way to prepare. Anyone engaged in a job search should take advantage of this tool. Doesn’t it make sense to have access to the same information that potential employers will see? If you know what’s in your report, you won’t be faced with surprises and possible disappointment.

What is potentially included in a background check (many sources are public records)? Background checks aren’t just about criminal history. There’s a lot of information that can surface that has the potential to ruin your chances at your opportunity of choice.

•Driving records •Vehicle registration •Credit records •Criminal records •Social Security Number •Education records •Court records •Workers’ compensation •Bankruptcy •Character references

•Medical records •Property ownership •Military records •State licensing records •Drug test records •Past employers •Personal references •Incarceration records •Sex offender lists

 

CONCLUSION: You’re not going to be able to erase your “accurate” history. That is not the goal here. The goal is to be prepared with the knowledge and information that any potential employer can access. If you are privy to the information, then you can plan your job search strategy and be ready to address any issues that may arise. 

 

Do you have career or life questions?

If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

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Pick Your Poison … Humility or Arrogance

Over the years I’ve seen a lot of very talented people make a multitude of interviewing mistakes on both ends of the spectrum … being over confident, or exhibiting a complete lack of confidence. Make no mistake about it, interviewing is an art and you need to strike the right balance. Do you lack humility and have a tendency to go overboard on self-promotion. Are you so afraid of appearing over confident that you don’t promote yourself at all? In either case, you’ll not have an easy time finding employment regardless of your skill set. 

There’s nothing wrong with tooting your own horn and, in fact, you should. It’s important to discuss your exceptional skills and world-class education. But, there are ways to promote yourself without appearing arrogant or cocky! If you appear to have an over-inflated ego and unrealistic expectations, you will find yourself on the job market for a very long time.

There are a number of reasons why people don’t get offers of employment (besides lack of preparation). Here are a few….

• Nerves. Being nervous is normal, but you don’t want to over compensate by clamming up or by rambling.
• Being cocky. No one wants to be around someone that is full of themselves. Tone it down! There’s always someone better, and more humble!
• Shyness. Shyness can be interpreted as arrogance, or as a lack of interest or confidence. Step it up! What do you have to lose?

Being aware of how you are perceived is important. Let’s explore some of the small things you can do to come across as confident, yet humble.

• Promote your value by giving examples on how you can contribute … not just personal contributions, but contributions for the success of others and the organization. Using an occasional pronoun like “I,” is okay, but don’t overuse it. It can make you appear egotistical. Make reference to team accomplishments whenever possible by using the word “we.”
• Bank on the fact that you will be asked about your weaknesses. No one likes discussing their faults, but we are human and have them! Show some humility by being honest about things you’ve had to work on, but make sure to discuss what you’ve done to improve upon those things. Turn a “perceived” negative into a positive!
• Body language speaks VOLUMES! Have an open and welcoming posture, both standing and sitting. For example, don’t cross your arms as it sends a message that you’re closing yourself off. On the flip side, don’t sit with arms outstretched like you own the place … it screams arrogance! Don’t slouch as it can be interpreted as low self-esteem or a “couldn’t care less” attitude (way too casual). Stand / sit up straight and lean in slightly. It shows you’re paying attention and have a real interest in what the interviewer has to say.
• When shaking hands, don’t have a limp hand, but don’t bring people to their knees either. Offer a firm, comfortable handshake while looking your interviewer in the eye. Introduce yourself (if not already taken care of) and let your interviewer know you appreciate their time by thanking them for the opportunity and letting them know it’s nice to meet them.
• SMILE! Looking someone in the eye and gifting them with a smile is one of the most powerful things a person can do. Smiling engages people and pulls them in.

My final piece of advice in this blog is that you do your research prior to an interview. Learn as much as you can about the people with whom you’ll meet, the department you’ll potentially work in and the company as a whole. When I say know your audience, I mean know your WHOLE audience … company culture included!

HIRING MANAGERS: Many of these tips, if you apply them as well, will go a long way toward getting the most out of your interviews. If job seekers feel comfortable with you, you’ll potentially learn a lot more about them!

CONCLUSION: “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” ~CF Lewis~
Don’t mistake humility for low self-esteem. Being humble means that you don’t put yourself front and center all the time and that you can show kindness and compassion with a strong sense of your own limits. Humility is not a weakness … it’s a notable strength of some of the most successful leaders! Now, this isn’t to say that some employers don’t love confidence that borders on arrogance. After all, flying under the radar and doing great work is definitely not enough. You DO need to get noticed! The bottom line is that success isn’t just about skills, success hinges on a balance of skills, confidence and humility … as well as knowing your audience. I’m not saying that you should change your personality. Never, ever change who you really are. Simply work on your delivery! It’s all in the packaging! Companies spend millions of dollars on packaging for a reason. Their product may often be the same or similar to their competitors’, but it’s the appeal that gets the sale!

 Do you have career or life questions?

If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

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Flextime … Is There Gender Bias?

An interesting topic came to my attention the other day. I didn’t believe what I was hearing … until I did a little research. Did you know that there’s a disparity between genders when it comes to flextime? I was a bit surprised at what I discovered and I think you will be too.

In several studies and surveys, it was revealed that managers will more often approve men’s requests for flextime over women’s. Very interesting! The reasons for this may shock you!

One survey states: “…professional men were more likely to be granted flextime if they made the request to advance their careers. On the other side of the spectrum, requests from women whether they were professional or paid by the hour were usually not granted. The reason for their flextime request did not matter.”

This is troubling on a couple of fronts. In a nutshell, it appears that when men ask for a flexible schedule, it’s assumed by managers that they’re asking for professional reasons and, therefore, requests are granted. On the flip side, when women ask for flexible schedules, the majority of managers assume it’s for personal reasons so the requests are denied. Not only that, but the women that ask are “…viewed as less likable and committed to their jobs.” Ugh!

Are managers really that out of touch? Well, according to at least one study, it appears many of them may be!. Here’s what else I found….

Believe it or not, woman are more hard-nosed about making any concessions in their careers to achieve work / life balance. Yep, it appears to be true! Just look at these stats:

• More men than women reported changing or being willing to change jobs (67% vs. 57%) or careers (60% vs. 52%) to better manage work and family lives.
• 57% of men said they’d give up a promotion versus 49% of women.
• Women were also 8 percentage points less likely than men to move to be closer to family (46% versus 38%) or to move to a country that offered parental leave benefits (26% versus 18%).
  

Another interesting component to this is that most employees are apparently unaware of the managerial bias discovered in these studies. Of note … a lot of men don’t ask for flextime because they don’t believe it would be granted. A lot of women believe if they asked for flextime for professional reasons, it would be granted. WOW … both appear to be wrong! You know that old saying, “What you don’t know, won’t hurt you.” Well, we’ve just taken THAT to a whole new level.

Personally, I think it’s FABULOUS that they guys are willing to make career sacrifices for the family. One expert believes that some of the shift in the “norm” is attributed to the fact that a large percentage of the younger men in the workforce watched their mothers work AND take on many of the additional responsibilities relating to parenting (after school activities, homework, etc.). These young men witnessed first-hand the struggles that mothers working outside of the home face. Makes sense to me! How about you?

While it was discussed in one of the articles, I don’t really want to get into the equal pay thing because there are so many variables that come into play. This blog would be VERY long! But suffice it to say that women, more than men, feel that their “careers” are on the line if they ask for any “privileges” or say no to a move or promotion in order to obtain a work / life balance. Men seem to feel that their careers are on more solid ground.

CONCLUSION: I’ve never been a conspiracy theorist and won’t jump on that bandwagon here either. I sincerely believe that there are a lot of good people in this world that if made aware, and given the opportunity, will conduct themselves in a fair and equitable manner. My personal feeling is that there’s still some work to be done in overcoming some of the “ingrained” biases that we grew up with … biases that have been accepted as normal or expected. Change doesn’t happen over night, and we can’t expect people to listen if we beat them over the head with our opinions or theories of deliberate unfairness. Let’s strive to wear our badge of professionalism proudly, remember that communication is a two-way street, and offer as much value as we possibly can.

REFERENCES:  

Guess Who Gets More Flex Time? 

Which Gender Sacrifices Most? 

Women Seeking Flex-Time Pay Heavier Price

 Do you have career or life questions?

If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

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How To Survive A Company Merger, Acquisition Or Restructuring

It seems to be the norm these days … mergers, acquisitions, restructuring, rightsizing, downsizing. With the constant “looking over your shoulder,” it’s enough to make your head spin. How does one deal with the feeling of insecurity when bits and pieces of corporate gloom and doom start leaking out? Do you stay put and hope for the best? Will the ax fall? Do you jump ship before the ax falls? Who’s most at risk? These are good questions, and most definitely questions you should be asking yourself if you suspect something is coming down the pike!

This could be a really LONG blog post, so I’ll try to summarize.

GET THE FACTS — Make sure you understand the reasons behind your company’s intent. You might be at risk if….

• They are merging with a company in the same business doing the same kind of work.
• Venture capital purchase … cuts in workforce are almost a certainty. They purchase to optimize profit.
• They are having financial difficulties.
• Management is keeping things quiet, or they are vague in answering questions.
• If your department mirrors or overlaps departments in the other company.

If your company is merging or part of an acquisition that is due to expansion or growth, your job is probably secure.

IT’S JUST BUSINESS:

Yep, I hear ya! It definitely “feels” personal, but it really is just business. BREATHE! In each of the above scenarios, except for expansion, you should expect that there will be a reduction in staff. When let go, for any reason, it’s difficult not to take it personally. So, let’s try to put things in perspective. If YOU are having personal financial difficulties, don’t you look at what you can cut back on in your household to save money? A company is no different. When cutting back, you keep the necessities and eliminate those things that you can live without. Be a necessity!!!

WHO’S AT RISK?: — Tricky question as it will all boil down to the reasons for the cutbacks. Some examples are….

• A shift in workload … workload is suddenly lighter, projects are being reassigned or people are being reassigned.
• Suddenly being left out of important meetings.
• Obvious avoidance (interactions with a boss and / or other’s in management suddenly change).

Most organizations, while going through the process of shuffling, will generally want to keep people as long as they can, but not everyone will be kept for the long term. I hate to be so blunt, but the reality is that people will generally be kept only as long as they are needed to ensure things run smoothly. Once the company finishes their merger / acquisition / reorganization, chances are those that have noticed a change in the way they’re being managed will be let go and they won’t know until the pink slips are handed out. Keep in mind, there are always exceptions (a company that’s simply moving operations, for example). Some organizations will be very up front about their intentions and may even offer employees a “retention bonus” if they will stay on through a predetermined date.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?:

• Most importantly, DO NOT PANIC and start discussing the situation and your “assumptions” with co-workers. This is most definitely a time to keep your business to yourself. Whatever you do, minimize your risk by maintaining your professionalism.
• I’ve written before about that little inner voice (Are You Getting Fired On Friday?) More often than not, it’s a good idea to listen to your gut (your intuition). Most of the people I speak with that have been let go tell me that they had a “feeling” something was up before they were handed their pink slip. The good news is that you don’t have to be a victim. Get ahead of it!
• Position yourself. You should ALWAYS do your best work! It’s especially important during times like these that upper management is aware of the value you bring to the team. “Key players” are essential to the success of any organization and often survive the cut. Consistently demonstrate through documented work product that you (and your team) are essential and will continue to be instrumental in the future success of not only your department, but the company as a whole.

CONCLUSION: One can never be completely certain that they will survive a reduction in workforce so it’s crucial to be prepared for any outcome. Nothing in life is EVER promised. ALWAYS have your resume and job search tools up to date! This is a rule of thumb for anyone, regardless of circumstances. Being able to quickly market yourself is paramount! I recommend that resumes, letters of recommendation and references be up to date at all times. And, maintain a positive attitude … it could mean the difference between being employed, or jobless!

 

Do you have career or life questions?
If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

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Do You Need A Check Up From The Neck Up?

I promise … the title of today’s blog is not a trick question. But I’ll bet I got your attention! 🙂

My morning began not unlike most other mornings. As I’ve mentioned before, I pretty much follow a routine … although I’m working on being more flexible. I wasn’t too far into my day and, unfortunately, some negativity started creeping in. It’s kind of like that little piece of lint that sticks to your clothing and no matter how many times you try to “flick it off,” it won’t go away. Annoying and distracting all at the same time. Anyway, I’m generally a very positive person … but even I can fall prey! Without the right mindset, it’s really easy to get sucked into things that aren’t productive. As you might surmise, my day was off to a rocky start!

As part of my new routine, I try to feed into as much positive input as I can. I’m wide open to learning about people and ideas that have been outside of my regular sphere of influence. I like to refer to it as “STRETCHING.” I had a 3:00 PM appointment with some powerful motivation … a webinar I had signed up for yesterday on “bouncing back.” I hadn’t listened to or watched any of Sonia Ricotti‘s audios / videos prior to today so I went into it with a completely open mind. I’m so glad I did!

Most of the time we don’t even realize how our subconscious mind controls absolutely every aspect of our lives. Yes, we can consciously maneuver through life and think that we are completely aware and in control, but most of us aren’t … and we don’t even know it!

Sonia said something in her webinar that really struck me, using terminology that really got my attention. In my head I heard, “ding, ding, ding.” She said that we need to “upgrade our mental software.” Hmmmm, interesting concept. Very interesting! If you didn’t know, there IS science behind this!

We hear a lot about “garbage in, garbage out,” and how we need to change the way we think. Even Zig Ziglar talked about “stinkin’ thinkin'” in his training. But, just changing the way our conscious mind thinks isn’t enough because the conscious mind isn’t in control of what we attract. Our subconscious mind is.

So, with everything I took in today I got to thinking. I’ve always been “intuitive.” For the most part, my “gut feelings” are usually right on. I’m sure many can relate. The trouble is that a lot of times I shrug off those feelings because I second guess myself. What do you think … is it my conscious mind taking control and second guessing, or my subconscious mind? You got it … it’s my subconscious mind. I’m “out of sync,” for lack of a better phrase. Consciously, I’m aware and ready to live up to my full potential, but my underlying ideas, fears, etc., are steering the ship. Ugh! This isn’t good. How have I let this happen? Without even knowing it, I’ve been holding myself back!

At this point I invite you to give yourself a gift … the gift of learning how to be “Unsinkable.” While much shorter than the webinar I attended today, this video, under eight minutes, just might change your life!

CONCLUSION: I can’t control the past because it’s behind me. I can’t control the future because it’s yet to come. I can take hold of this very moment and that’s exciting. Doesn’t the thought of that make your burden feel so much lighter? I know it does for me. This doesn’t mean that I can float through life without working toward my goals. It means that I can take control of now, start “upgrading my mental software,” and chart a new course that will completely align my conscious and subconscious thoughts. That’s pretty darn powerful. And, as a closing thought … your circle of friends are a BIG influence! You become like those you surround yourself with. Be careful not to be dragged into negativity. Seek out others who are positive and you’ll be surprised how much it rubs off on you … literally!

 

 

 Do you have career or life questions?

If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

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Have You Been Told You’re Overqualified? How To Avoid Being Rejected.

Most people that have conducted a job search have heard the dreaded, “Sorry, but you’re overqualified.” This is a very common reason given when rejecting a person’s candidacy for an open position. If dealing with a company that responds to all applications, it can happen right after a resume is submitted. A lot of candidates ask me if this reason is really true, or if there’s more to it. That’s not an easy question to answer because, frankly, sometimes it’s true and sometimes it’s not. There are a number of reasons for this response, some of them being what I like to call “operator error!”

I’ve written about discriminatory information on resumes which can, and does, preclude people from getting an interview. It’s important to start right at the beginning to make sure your resume contains just enough of the right information to pique the interest of potential employers.

If you’ve made the first cut (resume review), there are things that you need to pay attention to. There are legitimate reasons, from an employer’s point of view, that can land you in the overqualified pile. Let’s look at them.

• Will you be a long-term employee? There are two areas to focus on with this question, both of them being whether or not someone will be a long-term employee. One is that the closer a person is to retirement, the more concerned an employer “may” be about how long they’ll stay! It’s critical that employers don’t get a sense that someone is looking for their last “short” hurrah before retirement. The other is the concern about being used as a stepping stone … will a person leave as soon as a better offer comes along? Depending on the job, there’s a lot of training that goes into bringing on a new hire (regardless of where they are in their career). New hires can be very costly in the time and resources dedicated to training. 
• Are you making too much money? A lot of people have a hard time with this one. Many seem to think that potential employers are deliberately out to undercut them on salary. For the most part, this isn’t true. Organizations with good HR departments are very diligent about keeping salaries at “fair market value.” There are two things they look at; 1) “external equity” — they research other competitive pay structures; and 2) “internal equity” — they try to ensure fairness in compensation for employees working similar jobs. So in this case, if you’re making above “fair market value,” or have tried to inflate your salary to get a better offer, you may get the “overqualified” rejection.
• Will you be challenged in the position? If a potential employer gets a sense that the duties and responsibilities will not be stimulating enough (you’ll get bored), then you will be considered overqualified. It won’t matter if you’re willing to do whatever it takes because it goes back to our first bullet point above … can they keep you long-term? So, unless they are bringing you on with a mutual understanding of quickly moving you into more progressive roles, I’m afraid your chances of landing this type of position are slim to none!
• Are you applying for the wrong jobs? This is something that happens far too often. It can be very tempting, especially for those not working, to apply for anything and everything that looks remotely interesting. This isn’t good for anyone. First of all, it sets the stage for the disappointment that comes with inevitable rejection. Additionally, this kind of approach to a job search over taxes recruiters (internal and external) who are trying to ensure the right fit for job seekers and employers alike.
• Are you presenting yourself professionally? This is where many might get the “overqualified” response simply because it’s the nicest way to reject someone’s candidacy. I always try to counsel people about presentation. It’s one of the most important aspects of the job search. Presentation begins with your resume and ends with your interview follow up.
• Other reasons! All kinds of things can go wrong in the interview process. Confidence can come across as arrogance … it’s a very fine line. Confidence is good, arrogance is very bad. Also, being knowledgeable can come across as being a know it all. When people get nervous, they tend to drone on and on offering way more information than interviewers are seeking (nervous on an interview). There are many more things that can land someone in the “overqualified” file … low energy, not knowing what they’re talking about, no chemistry with the interviewer, appearing unreliable, not a cultural fit, etc.

CONCLUSION:  Do your research before applying for a position. Make sure you understand the size of the organization, its culture, the salary range for the position / area, the background of the HR person to whom you are applying, etc. Look up the company online, get a good feel for the department and see if you can find the name of the manager. Research them as well. All of this is a good rule of thumb BEFORE your application preparation. Each submission should be unique to a particular opportunity. Doing your due diligence pays huge dividends in the way of more “quality” interviews!

 

Do you have career or life questions?
If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

 

 Do you have career or life questions?

If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

Need Resume Help? “My Resume Toolkit”

Learn about us! Quality Source Inc.

Job Search Organization

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SOCIAL MEDIA BUFF? Choose any of the links below to be taken to our social media sites for more of what you’re looking for.

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2016 – Out With The Old, In With The New. Happy New Year!

As we get ready to bid 2015 a final farewell, what’s been on your mind? Have you been reflecting on the past year? Was it a good year? Did you meet or exceed your goals, or did you fall a bit short? Maybe you met or exceeded your goals in one area of your life, but not in another? Are you guilty of the ultimate mistake … overreaching on your resolutions?

I know I’ve been doing some reflecting. 2015 has been quite a ride for me with many highs and lows. I experienced a lot of new challenges in my business and personal life, some of which I never saw coming. We can plan and make all kinds of resolutions, but are we doing enough to leave room for the unexpected. Are we leaving room for “growth?”

I don’t know about you, but I tend to stick to routine. For me, deviating from routine is a challenge. This isn’t always a good thing and can be quite frustrating for those around me, not to mention the reality of me getting in my own way. Something wonderful can crop up and I’m reluctant to “stretch” a bit to give it a chance. Shoot, sometimes I don’t even recognize the GIFTS that these challenges offer. My love of routine often goes beyond being disciplined. If I had to analyze myself, I’d say it probably stems from being raised in a very strict, Southern, military family. Kind of a triple whammy! Some might call it being “inflexible.” Ouch! The truth hurts! Time to make my own choices and quit falling back on what I think is expected of me.

So, my main focus for the coming year is to be more flexible, at least my version of flexible. We all have to start somewhere, right?! I’ve had some hard lessons over the past year, as well as some good ones. You know the old saying about making lemonade out of lemons. I’m almost an expert! {{{{SMILES}}}}.

So how do we enter into a new year with “realistic” goals and expectations, keeping in mind that there’s more than ourselves to think about? Sometimes we have to make hard choices that may not be easy or popular, but are for the best in the end. Sometimes those choices will crop up when we least expect them. We can’t plan for everything (as much as I’d personally like to), but we sure can allow wiggle room for some redirection.

Let me share one very small example to put my thinking into perspective for you. For years I’ve had a “Quote of the Day” that goes out to anyone who chooses to subscribe. I hand pick the quotes and do them daily, Monday through Friday, and THAT hasn’t changed. But for YEARS I would do these on a daily basis in the same old format. Well, due to some personal and business growth this past year, I learned a few things that led me to make a change to the same old, ho-hum routine I had myself in. Now I have a system that allows me to be a little more creative, and lets me schedule the whole week of quotes all at one time. A bonus is that people can subscribe and unsubscribe themselves without any extra work on my part. YAY! Yes, there was a learning curve and I found myself frustrated with the extra time it took to get educated and set up the new system. But in the end, it’s a HUGE time-saver and I’m so happy with the results. Score one for Debra. VICTORY!

I had been cruising along in my comfort zone for so long. There was nothing wrong with my old way of doing things, but I hadn’t been as good as I could be. I hadn’t been “evolving” to meet the needs of my audience, which has really been my goal all along. I didn’t know that I didn’t know, if you know what I mean. That’s my point! Are you “evolving,” or are you “stuck?” Doing what’s “easiest” because it’s “familiar” can easily keep us “stuck.” I look back now and think, “ICK!” I absolutely have more changes I need to make, but at least I’m gaining on it. Watch out world, here I come!

CONCLUSION: Here’s my challenge to you. Just make ONE resolution … stretch beyond your comfort zone! That’s it. If you can promise yourself that, one thing will lead to another and before you know it, your life will evolve in so many fulfilling ways. Will it be uncomfortable? More than likely, yes! But, will it be rewarding in the end? That would also be a yes! You might not always be successful, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is that you STRETCH. Each time you do, you’ll learn something new about yourself which will ultimately make you happier. A happier you makes for a happier life for those around you too! That’s a good thing!

 

Do you have career or life questions?
If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I wish each and every one of you growth and continued success in the coming year.

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Until next year, I offer my warmest regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

Need Resume Help? “My Resume Toolkit”

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How To Let Go And Embrace New Beginnings

One of the toughest things to do is leave behind the familiar. Unless you have your own business, job change is, at some point, inevitable. Times are different. It’s not like it used to be years ago when people stayed at one job for a lifetime. Sometimes to get ahead, and to gain balance in your life, it’s necessary to make a change.

Intellectually, we know when it’s time for a change and we go through the motions to make it happen. We might even get excited about it because we know in our hearts it’s what’s best for us. There’s definitely something tantalizing when envisioning new possibilities. But when it comes right down to it, any type of job change can wreak havoc on our confidence and self-esteem.

How do we make peace with letting go and embracing new beginnings? Studies show that our subconscious is what controls absolutely everything in our lives. To truly let go and embrace change, we need to immediately tackle what our conscience mind is telling us because in reality, it’s our subconscious thoughts that are surfacing. Even though we may realize that change is necessary, those little voices are putting doubt in our minds and giving us reasons / excuses to hang back.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common thoughts and feelings that surface and how we can turn the real and “perceived” challenges and negative thoughts into something more positive.

• Culture – Yes, a company’s culture is very real. No matter how much we research a new company, they will have their own unique culture. Are they high energy and fast paced, quiet or bustling, employee driven, etc? Even if “similar” to your current culture, it’s going to be an adjustment since you’ve become such an integral part of your office. Cultures are no different than individuals having unique personalities … no two are alike! After you start your new job, be an observer. Different isn’t necessarily bad so take your time and don’t try to jump in all at once. 
• People – Ah, the people. As in all facets of life, not just work, people can be a challenge. Having a multitude of personalities under the same roof for eight hours a day requires tolerance. The best you can do is “manage” the interaction. You will feel a connection with some people right off the bat but be careful, not all who appear to be your buddy will actually be buddy material. Don’t project, but don’t fall prey either! Remember, politics exist in EVERY environment.
• Policies & Procedures – Even if your new opportunity has you doing the same type of work, the policies and procedures are going to be different. Be gracious during your transition. You may know your stuff, and that’s good, but you need to learn how things are done in your new environment. There’s plenty of time down the road to introduce new ideas of your own. Your first priority is to learn! You never know, you may be introduced to a few ideas that improve upon what you’ve brought to the table.
• Feeling Inferior – I believe most people enter into any new position with the fear of looking like they don’t know what they’re doing. After all, you’re leaving a situation in which you could do your job blindfolded. It’s easy to be comfortable being the expert! But we all know, you can’t grow if you’re not being stretched. Now you find yourself in a new situation where no one knows you and you’re starting over. I can’t stress this enough … you wouldn’t have been hired if the hiring manager didn’t believe you’d add value to their team. Period! So, suck it up, embrace your training and STRETCH yourself right back into being an authority. Give it time, it WILL happen if you set your mind to it!
• Losing Relationships – Leaving your job means saying goodbye and that’s never easy. This is something I have to counsel people on a lot. The bottom line is that you are NOT losing relationships … you’re gaining new ones! Anyone you’ve met that is meant to stay in your life, will stay in your life. You now have a wonderful opportunity to forge new and lasting relationships that can be just as rewarding. Take it slow and observe those around you. Finding “good chemistry” is accomplished by initially allowing others to do most of the “revealing” talk. You will find people that are honestly welcoming in any new situation.
• Comfort Zone – Let’s face it, you’re accustomed to personal and professional routines and habits that are “comfortable” and familiar. For example, when do you confidently take initiative, with whom will you take your coffee break, who will be your go-to person when you need support, who stimulates and appreciates your creativity, etc. That “alone” feeling starts to surface just thinking about leaving and it can be frightening for the best of us. Again, relax and take it slow. Throw yourself into your training, and get to know who the people are that you’ll interact with most. A rewarding job offers challenges that are outside-your-comfort-zone. Being stimulated keeps you on your toes.
  

CONCLUSION: I have this discussion with everyone at some point, and I’m going to be frank. Chances are when you first start your new job, you may have buyer’s remorse and think to yourself, “this sucks.” Different people have different reasons for feeling this way! It happens. New jobs typically do suck, at least initially. But have patience because that feeling passes rather quickly. Once you’re in, develop a routine and regain confidence in what you’re doing, it will all start coming together. Give it a chance … it’s your opportunity to be a shining star!

 

Do you have career or life questions?

If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

Need Resume Help? “My Resume Toolkit”

Learn about us! Quality Source Inc.

Job Search Organization

Interested in a blog?

SOCIAL MEDIA BUFF? Choose any of the links below to be taken to our social media sites for more of what you’re looking for.

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Are Cover Letters Effective Or Necessary?

Okay, so you’ve got your resume professionally updated, you have your follow-up tools, and now you’re ready to start your job search start. What’s missing? A cover letter? Some say you need one, others say you don’t. And if you do use one, what do you say? Let’s find out!

YES … I am of the professional opinion that you should have a cover letter, especially if you’re conducting your job search on your own. The reality is that in this job market, you need every possible advantage that you can get. And, a cover letter is a key piece of your marketing arsenal and further conveys your brand and value! The ONLY time I’d recommend you not send a cover letter, is if you’ve been instructed not to (some online submissions, etc.).

For many people, writing is not their claim to fame and they find themselves stuck. The good news is that while you want your cover letter to be professional, it shouldn’t be “stiff” … you can be a “bit” less formal and show some personality. You should include things in your cover letter that directly relate to the position for which you are applying, as well as “speak” to the person reading it. And remember, make each cover letter unique and personalized for each position. Start with a draft and revisit it a few times before finalizing it!

GETTING STARTED

• Do your research on the company first. More often than not, a company’s web site will talk about their “corporate culture.” A cover letter is a perfect opportunity to include personal notes on your interests / philosophies that show a potential employer how you well you’d fit into their environment.
• Research the position … read the job description thoroughly and understand the requirements. A cover letter is an opportunity to show a potential employer why you are qualified.  Not everything you’ve ever done can be on your resume, so your points of interest can speak directly to the position for which you are applying.
• Include a couple of your outstanding accomplishments that don’t appear on your resume but would mesh well with the needs of the position / company. Maybe even briefly mention a challenge that you overcame that would make you uniquely qualified.
• Make sure your cover letters convey a sense of “energy and personality.” You want the reader to get a sense of who you are and what you’ve accomplished. Before any face-to-face meeting, all a potential employer can do is get a mental picture of you. So, make sure it’s the image you want to convey. Let them imagine you in the position!
• If appropriate, you can name drop in a cover letter, something that you can’t do on a resume. If you’ve been referred or have a mutual contact in your network, mention them and what your relationship is.
• Don’t be afraid to “tell your story.” More and more studies are showing that stories make you “engaging and memorable.” Are you forging new ground, returning to the workforce, relocating, etc? Briefly tell your story and make it positive and exciting. Invite people into your world. Showcase your successes!
• Whatever you do, PERSONALIZE your cover letter(s)! Do NOT say, “To Whom It May Concern.” Ick!!! Again, READ the job description and then figure out to whom your letter should be addressed … Dear Mr./Ms. XXXX. LinkedIn is a great tool to use. Search for the company name and job title / department. If the instructions say to submit to HR, then search for the person in HR!

HOW TO STRUCTURE YOUR COVER LETTER

• I believe it goes without saying …ALWAYS type a cover letter. They should NEVER be handwritten!
• Your cover letter should not be more than one page. Offer enough, but don’t write a book. People are simply too busy to read lengthy letters.
• Just like on a resume, you have but a few opening lines to catch the reader’s attention. Don’t make it boring! Lead with a positive comment from a performance review or something that highlights relevant skills or work ethic. Tell them why you’ve chosen their company! This is even a good place to name drop! 
• The middle of your cover letter is where you bring attention to your skills. Know the difference between soft skills and hard skills. Soft skills such as communication, organization, time management, etc., are all important and a part of the bigger picture, but they don’t show an employer “why” you’re qualified. They are bonuses! Here’s where you need to highlight your technical skills and ability, with the added bonuses of your soft skills. Also, it’s always helpful if a potential employer knows what industries you’ve worked in. If not included on your resume, include this information in your cover letter.
• Your closing should always thank the readers for their time and consideration. Express your interest in the position and company and state your desire for next steps. If appropriate (independent job search), make sure you let them know that you will follow up to verify that your submission was received.
  

CONCLUSION:

A successful job search requires a lot of attention to detail. You ALWAYS want to be organized and professional. Everything that you do from start to finish speaks to an employer. It’s your “brand.” Make sure you know your audience and that you’re giving them the tools they need to recognize the value that you can bring to their team. I always tell people that I’d rather have more than less, but follow directions. Less means you run the risk of not having done enough. More, as long as it’s professional, means you’ve got it covered. Finally, be careful not to come across as needy or a pest. Not every submission will get a response, even if you think you’re a perfect fit. The right opportunity for you IS out there waiting to be found!

 

Do you have career or life questions?
If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warmest regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

Need Resume Help? “My Resume Toolkit”

Learn about us! Quality Source Inc.

Job Search Organization

Interested in a blog?

SOCIAL MEDIA BUFF? Choose any of the links below to be taken to our social media sites for more of what you’re looking for.

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The 11th Hour Of The 11th Day of the 11th Month – Armistice Day / Veterans Day

Having grown up in a military family, there’s a special place in my heart for the people who give so freely of themselves, during peacetime and wartime, to keep our world safe. Many of these fine men and women make the armed forces their life’s work. It’s a demanding life, a submissive life, a selfless life!

Do you know the history behind Veterans Day? Many people don’t. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, Word War I officially ended. Legislation was passed in 1938 to dedicate November 11 to the cause of world peace and was known as “Armistice Day” in honor of World War I veterans.

In 1954,  veterans service organizations were successful in getting Congress to amend the Act of 1938 to change the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day in order to honor all American veterans of all wars. After all, we had now been through World War II and the Korean War.

This “holiday” has not been without controversy. In 1968, Veterans Day was moved to the fourth Monday in October so that Federal employees could enjoy a long weekend. Really?!?! Well, there were a lot of people that didn’t like this idea for obvious reasons. So, in September of 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed a law to return the annual observance of Veterans Day to it’s original date of November 11, beginning in 1978. Yay, George! The rest is history!

Note that there is a difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day honors our military men and women who died in service, or as a result of injuries incurred during battle. Of course, we remember ALL veterans on Veterans day, deceased or living. However, Veterans Day is a day dedicated to thanking and honoring our living veterans who are or have served honorably in any branch of our military at any time.

I’ve provided a brief video which is about two minutes in length, as well as a link below with more information. This is a really important day so make sure you take a moment to hug or thank a veteran or service member. It will make their day!

To learn more about the historical importance of Veterans Day, click here> The History of Veterans Day

 

CONCLUSION:  I might be a bit biased coming from a military family, but I can recognize the fact that without our military men and woman choosing a career of service to our country, we wouldn’t enjoy the freedoms that we’ve been so blessed with. Among many other freedoms we enjoy, we are free to choose our life path, our careers, military or not. We are free to to search for greater fulfillment in our lives. We need to be thankful and appreciative of what we have, and we need to take what’s already good, and strive to make it better. Today’s a day to not only honor our veterans, but to make sure we honor their gift to us! To all of our brave men and women….

Do you have career or life questions?

If so, comment below and I’ll be happy to respond!

 

Thanks for sharing your time with me and reading my BLOG!

Warm regards…. Debra

We love providing you with value be it in our blog with up-to-date information about what’s going on in the workplace, tools you need to create and maintain your own success, daily quotes to keep you motivated and moving forward, options on career paths and, of course, a little fun along the way.

Need Resume Help? “My Resume Toolkit”

Learn about us! Quality Source Inc.

Job Search Organization

Interested in a blog?

SOCIAL MEDIA BUFF? Choose any of the links below to be taken to our social media sites for more of what you’re looking for.

Business page

Professional Profile

Motivation

Quotes & More