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<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><rss xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:openSearch="http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/" xmlns:blogger="http://schemas.google.com/blogger/2008" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:gd="http://schemas.google.com/g/2005" xmlns:thr="http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0" version="2.0"><channel><atom:id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744</atom:id><lastBuildDate>Wed, 25 Dec 2024 11:37:50 +0000</lastBuildDate><category>business networking</category><category>salary negotiation</category><category>networking</category><category>interviewing</category><category>interviews</category><category>job search</category><category>LinkedIn</category><category>compensation</category><category>on-line networking</category><category>resume writing</category><category>salary increases</category><category>social networking</category><category>Facebook</category><category>career management</category><category>informational interviews</category><category>personal branding</category><category>professional associations</category><category>resumes</category><category>company research</category><category>cover letters</category><category>job boards</category><category>online identity</category><category>online networking</category><category>salary compensation</category><category>blogging</category><category>digital dirt</category><category>elevator pitch</category><category>employment offers</category><category>job offers</category><category>library searches</category><category>on-line identity</category><category>professional organizations</category><category>resume</category><category>resume accomplishments</category><category>salary negotiations</category><category>thank you letters</category><category>Ecademy</category><category>Finance</category><category>HR professionals</category><category>IT</category><category>accomplishment statements</category><category>accountants</category><category>alumni groups</category><category>base pay</category><category>behavior based interviewing</category><category>best companies</category><category>brain teaser questions</category><category>career change</category><category>career fair</category><category>core competencies</category><category>dress code</category><category>e-book</category><category>email etiquette</category><category>employee branding</category><category>employment agreements</category><category>flexibility</category><category>follow up</category><category>free</category><category>free book</category><category>free event</category><category>free resume assessment</category><category>holiday party</category><category>human resources</category><category>industry awards</category><category>introductory letters</category><category>job change</category><category>job mobility</category><category>job posting</category><category>job search research</category><category>layoffs</category><category>market research</category><category>marketing letters</category><category>mentoring</category><category>mentors</category><category>new york city events</category><category>niche boards</category><category>non-profits</category><category>online posting</category><category>pay raise</category><category>pay raises</category><category>performance review</category><category>puzzle interviews</category><category>recession</category><category>recruiters</category><category>recruiting</category><category>reference guides</category><category>reverse chronological resume</category><category>salary raises</category><category>salary survey</category><category>spellcheck</category><category>stress</category><category>stress management</category><category>technology</category><category>teleconference</category><category>telephone screenings</category><category>top jobs</category><category>video resumes</category><category>war for talent</category><category>work/life balance</category><title>careersolvers</title><description>Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/</link><managingEditor>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</managingEditor><generator>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>159</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>25</openSearch:itemsPerPage><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-9124036568694623576</guid><pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 19:09:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-19T14:12:13.672-05:00</atom:updated><title></title><description>Career Solvers Blog Has Moved! The Career Solvers Blog has moved! <a href="http://www.careersolvers.com/blog">Visit us here </a>for more posts on career management strategy. Hope to see you there!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/career-solvers-blog-has-moved-career.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>2</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-1104596616922099440</guid><pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2008 02:43:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-13T21:57:54.413-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">LinkedIn</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">online networking</category><title></title><description>More on LinkedIn Lately I've been receiving a lot of LinkedIn invitations from people I do not know with the generic "I'd like to add you to my network" message and nothing else. This just isn't doing it for me. Maybe I should know you, but without a compelling message, it's hard to make that decision. And please don't take the easy way out and assume I will click on the link to your profile. Explain in the body of your email why I should connect to someone I don't know and what the possible professional synergies are. That will capture my attention and make you much more credible in my eyes. LinkedIn users should stop mining data and start creating authentic relationships on-line that can eventually lead to valuable professional partnerships. That's the way to optimize its value.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/more-on-linkedin-lately-ive-been.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>3</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-3080499470713673198</guid><pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2008 03:13:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-11T23:10:49.996-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">job search</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">LinkedIn</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">online identity</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">social networking</category><title></title><description>LinkedIn 101 - Ten Tips to Help You Ace the Power of LinkedIn I just finished reading Liz Ryan's book <a href="http://www.happyabout.info/onlinenetworking.php">Happy About Online Networking </a>which offers some great tips for leveraging the power of online business and social networking tools to build relationships and an online professional identity. Liz makes some great points about how to build credibility on several sites and I particularly liked her comments about building authentic relationships on <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/">LinkedIn</a>. She reminds us that users should not just use the LinkedIn database to find people, but they should also share enough information about themselves to indicate how they might help others. Liz and I are on the same page when it comes to making the most of LinkedIn. Here are some of the tips I recommend for optimizing the benefits of LinkedIn. <ol><li>Take the time to create a robust profile. Write a summary section that clearly outlines your personal brand and value add and gets readers jazzed up about what you do. Build out the specialties section and make it keyword rich and industry relevant. Many profiles on LinkedIn are just a shell with a name and an abbreviated chronology. You would never submit a resume to a potential employer that only listed the names of the companies you worked for with no supporting information, so why would you use this tactic online where your information is available for millions of people to see?</li><li>Use the endorsements feature to request and offer endorsements. People are more likly to contact you if you can showcase that others have been satisfied with your work. Adding endorsements can expedite the decision making/hiring process.</li><li>Keep your profile up to date. People who use LinkedIn for a job search campaign often abandon the tool after they find new employment. By keeping your information up to date, you are more likely to keep your network strong and be able to reciprocate to others.<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p> </li><li>Educate your connections. If people join LinkedIn and don't invite others, they won't get as much out of the tool and will remain several degrees apart from the people they want to meet. When you introduce friends and colleagues to the tool, take the time to explain to them how to maximize its utility. </li><li>Remember that LinkedIn doesn't replace traditional networking, it facilitates it. Always supplement your online efforts with face-to-face networking.<o:p></o:p><o:p> </o:p></li><li>Use the questions and answers feature to start conversations, create community, and position yourself as a subject matter expert. By answering questions, you are simultaneously endorsing your candidacy and expertise.</li><li>Don't add a connection that you would not feel comfortable introducing to someone already in your network. Having 500 connections doesn't have much value if you can't "share the love".</li><li>Avoid the "invitation to connect" templates. They lack authenticity and are inferior when compared to a personalized message.</li><li>Create a public profile. This is an easy way to start building an online presence for yourself, since LinkedIn ranks high in the search engines.</li><li>Take advantage of available resources about LinkedIn including <a href="http://http//www.careersolvers.com/reading.html">I'm on LinkedIn...Now What???,</a> <a href="http://www.linkedintelligence.com/">Linked Intelligence</a> and <a href="http://blog.linkedin.com/">LinkedIn Blog.</a> </li></ol><o:p> </o:p> <o:p> </o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/linkedin-101-ten-tips-to-help-you-ace.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>3</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-3767719964613844595</guid><pubDate>Tue, 05 Feb 2008 05:20:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-05T00:24:17.229-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">employment agreements</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">employment offers</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">interviews</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary negotiation</category><title></title><description>Negotiation Tip #7 Always get the offer in writing. Because of the large number of mergers, acquisitions, and downsizings, it’s important to get terms of employment in writing. Find out if the company routinely provides new hires with employment contracts. If this is not offered, use a confirmation letter to spell out the terms you have agreed to accept. During the negotiation process, use a follow up memo after each discussion. This gives you more control over the final agreement. <o:p></o:p> <o:p></o:p>These seven tips remind candidates that the negotiation process reinforces individual empowerment and group cooperation. By viewing the negotiation as a step towards consensus building and understanding the psychology behind the exchange, candidates can improve their bargaining power significantly and begin new employment relationships on a positive note. That's it for this series. Good luck in your future negotiations!<o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/negotiation-tip-7-always-get-offer-in.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-6318209192247607408</guid><pubDate>Mon, 04 Feb 2008 05:12:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-04T00:14:38.445-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">interviews</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary negotiation</category><title></title><description>Negotiation Tip #6 Generally it is reasonable to request up to one week to make your decision regarding a position. As a matter of fact you should never accept a position on the spot. You want the employer to view you as a prudent decision maker and you want them to understand that you don’t rush into big decisions. Express your excitement regarding the offer, but allow yourself some time to think about the level of responsibility within the position and the associated compensation. Another reason for not accepting the offer on the spot is to make sure you have time to review the offer and determine what points you may want to negotiate.I will post my last tip in this series tomorrow. Stay tuned! <o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/negotiation-tip-6-generally-it-is.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>2</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-1713708925583376447</guid><pubDate>Sun, 03 Feb 2008 05:29:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-03T00:31:30.769-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">interviews</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary compensation</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary increases</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary raises</category><title></title><description>Negotiation Tip #5 Negotiation starts the moment you submit your resume and continues during the interview process. Don’t sell yourself at one level and then expect an offer for a higher level. During the interview process you start building the relationship with the employer and showcasing your value as a candidate. Once you’ve built maximum value throughout the interview process, you will have the leverage to negotiate the best compensation package possible. I have two more tips to share. Check back tomorrow for the next tip.<o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/negotiation-tip-5-negotiation-starts.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>4</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-1835445664256809585</guid><pubDate>Sat, 02 Feb 2008 05:25:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-02T00:27:03.880-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">pay raises</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary compensation</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary increases</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary negotiations</category><title></title><description>Negotiation Tips #3 and 4 Surveys suggest that 85-90% of hiring managers do not make their best offer first. The employer begins the negotiation process knowing how much money is budgeted for the position and how much flexibility there is around that figure. They also know how long they’ve been looking and how competitive the job market is for someone with your abilities. These factors influence what they offer initially. They want to have some wiggle room…they know the candidate may chose to negotiate their compensation. By starting low they have built in flexibility during the negotiation process.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Counteroffers are generally 10-15% above the original offer. Again, employers know they may need to negotiate, so it’s reasonable to assume that there’s flexibility built in to the initial offer. Employers expect you to negotiate. In addition to the financial rewards associated with salary negotiation, you will gain the respect of the hiring manager and increase your credibility within the organization.I have a few more tips to share. Check back tomorrow! <o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/negotiation-tips-3-and-4-surveys.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-4126675896010357969</guid><pubDate>Fri, 01 Feb 2008 06:11:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-02-01T01:14:45.547-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">compensation</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">interviewing</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary negotiation</category><title></title><description>Negotiation Tip #2 Never ignore job openings because of perceived salary shortcomings. In many cases, those who keep an open mind and interview for positions that at first glance might appear too junior can build a great deal of value into their candidacy by discussing additional responsibilities they can handle within the position and in turn negotiate a better compensation package. Always approach a job opportunity like it is the job of your dreams. While you don’t want to waste your time to get an offer if you just don’t think the job is right for you, many people drop out of the running too early in the interview process because they don’t want to be in a position where they have to turn an offer down. Continue to interview for all but the most unlikely positions until you get the job offer. It’s ok to walk away if after the negotiations the job still isn’t a good fit for you. In addition, statistically, one out of every two jobs will be newly created positions in this decade and the next. This allows candidates to help design their own positions with employers throughout the interview and offer process. Check back tomorrow for the next tip in this series. <o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/02/negotiation-tip-2-never-ignore-job.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-4730190057139416112</guid><pubDate>Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:27:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-31T11:30:57.410-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">employment offers</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary compensation</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">salary negotiations</category><title></title><description>Tips for Successful Employment Negotiations In the job offer context, negotiation is a non-confrontational, business focused discussion aimed at resolving differences between two parties with the same goal. In order to be an effective negotiator, job seekers need to understand the dynamics behind the conversation and use this information to create a give and take dialogue with potential employers. What often gets in the way of rewarding win-win conversations is our fear of rejection or potential conflict. Successful negotiators view the process as one of collaboration. They listen to the employer’s needs and recommend outcomes that benefit both parties. They recognize that savvy negotiators build relationships and never give ultimatums. Strategic job seekers understand that the negotiation is hopefully the first of many relationship building conversations they will have with their future employer. Here's tip #1 in this series.<o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> Everyone is capable of negotiating. Nobody is born knowing how to be an effective negotiator. It is a learned skill that is developed with experience. We can all learn to negotiate effectively for what we need and want. Keep in mind you wouldn’t be receiving the offer in the first place if you weren’t the person selected as the best candidate for the job. This gives you leverage. Once an employer decides you are the person for the job, the primary concern will not be to negotiate the least expensive compensation package the company can get away with. The focus will be on getting you to accept the job. Most employers invest a great deal of time and energy in the interview process, and are very reluctant to settle for second best when their number one candidate makes an attempt in good faith to negotiate for more money. <o:p></o:p> <o:p> </o:p> <o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/tips-for-successful-employment.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-403001460324467936</guid><pubDate>Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:53:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-21T11:21:44.709-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">career change</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">career management</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">job change</category><title></title><description>Is it Time to Find a New Job? Career Builder ran a piece today about deciding <a href="http://jobs.aol.com/article/_a/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-go/20080117101209990001">when it's time to leave your current job.</a> While the right time is different for everyone, here are the signs I recommend you look for when considering a job change or career move. Job change... <ol><li>You are no longer challenged by or interested in the tasks that you perform.</li><li>You are not being paid competitively and attempts to negotiate your salary have not changed your situation.</li></ol>Career change.... <ol><li>You consistently question the value of what you do.</li><li>You spend a significant amount of time thinking about pursuing another line of work.</li><li>Your industry is shrinking and you have witnessed significant downsizing in your company or industry. </li><li>You have consistently received poor performance reviews or you are on corrective action.</li></ol>What has triggered you to make a job or career change? What benefits did you derive from doing so? To read more about warning signs that signal it's time to leave a job and advice on general job search strategy, check out my interview on the <a href="http://theytellyouhow.com/2007/12/barbara-safani-has-helped-job-seekers.html">They Tell You How</a> blog.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/is-it-time-to-find-new-job-career.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>4</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-3831004529404587010</guid><pubDate>Mon, 21 Jan 2008 02:38:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-20T22:17:37.936-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">Facebook</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">social networking</category><title></title><description>Why I Like Facebook A colleague of mine recently emailed me <a href="http://advice.cio.com/thomas_wailgum/why_im_just_saying_no_to_facebook?source=nlt_cioinsider">this post from CIO.com about Facebook</a> and how this popular social networking tool can distract people and sap productivity. While the blogger makes some valid points about the questionable usefulness of certain Facebook applications and people's tendency to get lost on-line, I have to say I still think that Facebook is a great business and social networking tool. Here's why. <ol><li>Facebook makes it easy for me to let my friends, colleagues, and clients know that I am thinking of them. It reminds me when my contacts' birthdays are, lets me share interesting articles, photos, and videos to groups of friends, and helps me get to know the personal side of my contacts, not just the business side.</li><li>Facebook is "sticky" and I have a reason to go there everyday. Facebook updates me on what everyone in my network is doing on a daily basis...sure a lot of the information is useless or silly, but sometimes there's a golden nugget about a friend or colleague's success, an upcoming industry event, a reunion, a book recommendation, or an interesting product or service.</li><li>Facebook is fun. Sometimes after I've just completed a project or when I'm stuck on how to tackle a new project, I jump on Facebook. Distraction? Maybe...But sometimes a distraction is just what I need to get the creative juices flowing for the next project. If I'm stuck on a project that my contacts may be able to help me with, I pose a question to the group and get invaluable advice that helps propel me forward. </li><li>Facebook lets people get to know me better. People build relationships based on frequency of encounters and trust. Facebook simply expedites this process and helps people get to know me faster. Once an authentic relationship is established we can begin to share information that will help each other.</li></ol>If you want to learn more about Facebook and how to get the most out of it, check out Jason Alba and Jesse Stay's new book, I'm on Facebook...Now What??? <a href="http://happyabout.info/facebook.php">here.</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/colleague-of-mine-recently-emailed-me.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-3128620777251092214</guid><pubDate>Sun, 20 Jan 2008 04:30:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-20T00:23:30.531-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">job search</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">recession</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">resume</category><title></title><description>Recession-Proof Your Career According to an article in The New York Times, the U.S. Department of Labor reports that the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/19/business/19charts.html?_r=1&amp;scp=3&amp;sq=January+19%2C+2008&amp;oref=slogin">unemployment rate</a> as of December 2007 is 13.2% higher than it was in December 2006. Historically, a year-to-year difference of 13% or more has led to a recession. While these statistics don't offer proof that a recession is underway, now is certainly a good time to look at your job, company, and industry and think through strategies for recession proofing your career. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself to get you started. Analyze your industry Is your industry growing or shrinking? Have certain job functions been eliminated, automated, outsourced, or off-shored? Could you easily do every aspect of your job from home...in your pajamas? If your industry is shrinking, what skills do you have that are transferable to another, more robust industry? Review your skills Have you diversified your skills over the past 5 years? What competencies do you possess that your colleagues do not? Do you volunteer for new projects that require you to stretch and make you a little less replaceable? Be a continuous learner Have things changed in your industry within the past 5 years? If you had to look for a new job tomorrow, would there be something lacking in your skills that would raise a red flag with employers? Be visible Do people in your industry or profession know about you? Can they find out more about you by visiting Linked In, Zoom Info, or Ziggs or just plain Googling you? Is your online presence distinct or are you one of thousands of John Does? Share information When was the last time you offered career advice to a friend or colleague? Do people see you as the type of person they would like to help if you were seeking career advice or would they duck and cover? Always have your resume ready If the perfect opportunity presented itself tomorrow, would you be able to quickly shoot your resume off to the decision maker or would you be scrambling around to create a half-baked cut and paste document? Would you feel confident that your resume adequately represents your accomplishments and the value you can bring to an employer?<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/recession-proof-your-career-according.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>2</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-3100875249358743306</guid><pubDate>Tue, 15 Jan 2008 04:18:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-14T23:57:28.719-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">job search</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">networking</category><title></title><description>I just finished reading <a href="http://www.happyabout.info/confessions-entrepreneur.php">Confessions of a Resilient Entrepreneur </a>by Frumi Rachel Barr which chronicles one entrepreneur's professional and personal life over several decades. After owning several businesses, Barr became a business coach and a lot of her advice for small business owners is relevant to people in a job search. Here are some of my favorite suggestions from her book and my take on how these concepts apply to a job search: <ul><li>"Make a list of your core values. Which ones do you actively support? Which ones need your attention?" For the job seeker, core values should be examined to help them decide what type of company they want to work for. What are your priorities? Do you value money, great benefits, meaningful work, a relaxed dress code, flexibility, lots of vacation time...the more aligned the corporate culture is with your core values and life priorities the greater the likelihood that you will succeed in that organization. </li><li>"Make a list of all the people who fall into your different role categories. What actions should you spend energy on?" In the world of job search, job seekers need to develop a targeted networking strategy that gets them in front of the right people with the greatest possible frequency. All networking activities are not created equal. Take the time to examine your network and concentrate on the relationships and affinity groups that will optimize your visibility and keep you in front of the right audience. </li><li>"Start a journal. Make notes about your impressions of yourself and your decision making process. Did you get to where you are because you followed a plan or did things just happen?" Journaling during a job search can be a great way to relieve stress and it can also be an excellent strategy for reviewing past career successes and mistakes. The more introspective you can be about the past, the greater the chance of finding the right culture and fit at your next job. </li><li>"What are you afraid of? What fears are holding you back?" Have you resisted pursuing your dream job because you fear that you will fail or that people around you won't understand? How would you feel if you were selected for the job of your dreams and what would it look like? By visualizing your success you may overcome your fears and get one step closer to your perfect job. </li><li>"What trade offs are you making in your life right now and what are you willing to trade to get where you want to go?" Job search requires a significant commitment and a certain amount of risk. Job seekers need to stretch during a job search and take some calculated risks. What sacrifices have you made for current or past employers and what were the consequences? What sacrifices are you willing to make moving forward to find the right job? </li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/i-just-finished-reading-confessions-of.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-95397293656273708</guid><pubDate>Sun, 13 Jan 2008 22:56:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-13T18:40:37.266-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">on-line identity</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">on-line networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">personal branding</category><title></title><description>Build Authenticity During a Job Search With On-Line Personal Branding I ran across a great post on <a href="http://www.shoestringbranding.com/2008/01/12/personal-brandin-job-hunting/">personal branding </a>over on the Shoestring Branding blog that advocates leveraging on-line technologies to achieve an authentic voice and become the candidate of choice for employers seeking talent. The blog's publisher, Mario Sanchez, discusses how many candidates in search turn their candidacy into a commodity by posting on multiple job boards rather than building a personal brand that showcases their unique value proposition and focuses on the key competencies that make them a real catch. As Sanchez puts it, job seekers need to "come across as a real person in a low trust world." He recommends <a href="http://www.networksolutions.com/">registering your name as a URL,</a> setting up a <a href="http://www.careersolvers.com/resumes.html#webportfolios">personal website, </a>and blogging on your brand or niche area of expertise. If you're not ready to take these big steps yet, consider implementing one or more of these baby steps to create your on-line personal brand. <ol><li>Post comments on other people's blogs. By commenting on other people's blogs, you become a part of the discussion, build credibility, demonstrate your passion for your area of expertise, and create visibility. You can find blogs relevant to your profession, industry, and areas of knowledge by setting up <a href="http://www.googlealerts.com/">Google Alerts</a> on key words in your field.</li><li>Set up some business networking profiles. On-line networking sites help you connect to a lot of people, 24/7, all over the world. They offer certain efficiencies that can't be duplicated in the non-virtual world, and while on-line networking should not be seen as a replacement to in-person networking, it is certainly an excellent add-on that every job seeker should take notice of. <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/">Linked In</a> is great for business networking. <a href="http://www.spoke.com/"></a><a href="http://www.spoke.com/">Spoke</a>, <a href="http://www.ecademy.com/">Ecademy</a>, and <a href="http://www.xing.com/">Xing,</a> are other sites that can add value to your business networking strategy.</li><li>Build on-line identity through others. <a href="http://www.zoominfo.com/">Zoom Info,</a> <a href="http://www.naymz.com/">Naymz,</a> and <a href="http://www.ziggs.com/">Ziggs </a>allow you to create professional profiles and bios and upload a photo. Ziggs even has a feature where you can answer certain interview-like questions and post your responses.</li></ol>What have your experiences been with building your professional identity on-line? What works best for you and which groups or strategies give you the most personal satisfaction? Let us know.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/build-authenticity-during-job-search.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>2</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-5000510973293243078</guid><pubDate>Wed, 09 Jan 2008 04:30:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-08T23:53:14.325-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">networking</category><title></title><description>Tales From the Networking Community I just finished reading <a href="http://www.happyabout.info/networking-community.php">Tales From the Networking Community</a> and really enjoyed Dan Williams' simple, yet powerful statements about networking. My favorites are: <ol><li>"Building trust is not an event, but rather comes with frequency" How true! Generally, introductions into another person's network don't happen after one encounter. The relationship must afford you consistent visibility and you must remain top of mind with your contacts in order to solidify the affinity, gain credibility, and eventually broaden your network. </li><li>"Networking is like farming; it requires an ongoing process of activities to grow, it requires a leap of faith, and it cannot be done alone." Without proper nurturing, nothing can grow. Like children, your network requires a lot of attention in order to remain healthy and prosperous. </li><li>"Networking has very little do do with personality. Networking is all about a learned set of skills and having a systematic process to exercise those skills." People are not born knowing how to network. Anyone can learn the strategies for creating successful relationships, but they have to be willing to do the work. And it is a lot of work!</li></ol><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/tales-from-networking-community-i-just.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>3</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-8637834057801188014</guid><pubDate>Mon, 07 Jan 2008 00:35:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-06T19:37:14.153-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">online networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">professional associations</category><title></title><description>Networking Rx I came across a great post on Liz Lynch's <a href="http://networkingexcellence.typepad.com/stealth_networker/2007/12/do-you-make-the.html">The Stealth Networker Blog </a>about some of the issues active job seekers sometimes face when networking. Liz reminds us that the time to start networking is way before you are in a job search. <a href="http://www.typepad.com/t/app/weblog/post?__mode=edit_entry&amp;id=33207870&amp;blog_id=294386">People who only start networking when they are in need </a>of contacts and help often lack the authenticity that is so critical to building a viable network. Job seekers often get frustrated with the concept of networking because as Dan Williams says in his book, <a href="http://www.happyabout.info/networking-community.php">Tales From the Networking Community</a>, "networking is a process, not an event." Job seekers expect immediate results (often because they need to pay immediate bills) and may give up on networking if they don't quickly get some bites. Every encounter with another person is a potential networking opportunity. Network to build relationships, not to get a job. Get in the mindset of giving more than you get, connecting people without being asked, actively seeking new affinity groups, exploring on line social networks, blogging, joining professional associations, volunteering, and reconnecting with old friends and colleagues. By doing so, you will build your network steadily over time and will be recognized as a trustworthy and credible connection who is genuinely interested in the well-being of the people in your network. Once this is accomplished, you will reap the benefits of being top of mind with others in your network when you are in need of advice, help, support, and yes, even a job lead.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/networking-rx-i-came-across-great-post.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>2</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-9082439651603546316</guid><pubDate>Sat, 05 Jan 2008 21:01:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-05T16:12:32.610-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">human resources</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">new york city events</category><title></title><description>Networking and Professional Development for HR Practitioners There are a lot of great HR seminars going on in New York City this month through HRNY, one of the premier chapters of SHRM. Topics include managing change, getting a handle on corporate benefits costs, and workplace diversity. If you are an HR professional or if you are interested in "hob nobbing" with HR practitioners and entrepreneurs, this is the place to be. <a href="http://www.hrny.org/">Check out the association and the seminars here.</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/networking-and-professional-development.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>2</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-2362365378640221497</guid><pubDate>Fri, 04 Jan 2008 06:05:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2008-01-04T01:27:20.656-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">Facebook</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">LinkedIn</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">social networking</category><title></title><description>Facebook and Your Job Search While LinkedIn continues to be a valuable tool for sourcing job leads, more and more recruiters and hiring managers are also using Facebook as a tool for finding talent. Check out CM Russell's post over on <a href="http://secretsofthejobhunt.blogspot.com/2008/01/your-resume-on-facebook.html">Secrets of the Job Hunt </a>to learn more about some interesting applications to help you get found online.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2008/01/facebook-and-your-job-search-while.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-4556198700162053942</guid><pubDate>Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:44:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2007-12-31T16:45:58.506-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">career management</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">informational interviews</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">online networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">professional associations</category><title></title><description>Career Management Resolutions for 2008 In the spirit of the New Year, here are some easy to implement resolutions to get your career management strategy on track for 2008. <ol><li>Go to lunch. I meet a lot of people who never take a lunch hour because they are too busy working. Don't make this mistake. The lunch hour is a great time to solidify relationships with colleagues, mentors, friends, and family. More lunch buddies means more networking and potentially more job opportunities down the road. Try to eat with different people over the course of a month and get in the habit of introducing people over lunch. Be a connector so people will want to connect you to others in the future. </li><li>Get a hobby. Everyone has something outside of work that they are interested in. But many people find excuses for not pursuing hobbies and interests. Having a hobby helps build affinity with others. Running clubs, knitting clubs, book clubs, etc. help people bond and develop trust. Friendship grows out of trusting relationships. The more friends you have, the greater the likelihood that they will share information about professional opportunities that may interest you. </li><li>Join a professional association. Professional associations offer many great opportunities to connect with colleagues. Find an appropriate association in your field and do more than just show up. Offer to work the registration table at an event, contribute content to the association's newsletter, or be part of a panel for an upcoming event. Involvement leads to familiarity, and familiarity leads to opportunities sourced through other members of the association. </li><li>Reconnect with old friends. Friends are usually flattered when you take the time to find them and learn about what they are doing. Try to find old schoolmates through <a href="http://www.classmates.com/">Classmates.com </a>or your college's alumni directory. <a href="http://www.corporatealumni.com/">CorporateAlumni.com</a> is helpful for trying to find previous work colleagues. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/">Facebook </a>is also a great tool for finding friends and it's not just for college kids anymore. </li><li>Get organized. As you build your list of new contacts, organizing their information can be a bit overwhelming. Use an electronic career management tool such as <a href="http://www.jibberjobber.com/">JibberJobber</a> to keep your information current and at your fingertips. </li><li>Update your resume. Don't wait until you find the perfect posting on line or meet the right decision maker at a networking event. Always have an updated resume ready to send to your contacts. <a href="http://http//www.careersolvers.com/resumes.html#reassessment">Get a free assessment of your current resume here.</a> </li><li>Get online. If a recruiter or hiring manager wanted to know more about you, would they be able to find you on line? Put your full name in quotes on <a href="http://www.google.com/">Google </a>or another search engine and find out what information is available about you. If there is nothing there or you don't like what you see, start creating a web presence using tools such as <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/">Linked In</a>, <a href="http://www.zoominfo.com/">ZoomInfo,</a> and Ziggs. </li><li>Go on an informational interview. One of the best ways to learn more about opportunities in your field or another field you are considering transitioning into is to talk to people who are currently doing the type of work you think you would like to be doing. In an informational interview, any question is fair game, and you can receive authentic answers to what it's really like to be in a particular professional role. These types of interviews help you validate your perceptions about a certain profession and adjust your career aspirations based on the information you receive.</li></ol>Try to implement at least one of these suggestions in early 2008 and find ways to incorporate other strategies into your career management plan throughout the rest of the year. Best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2007/12/career-management-resolutions-for-2008.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>3</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-5162284708129564677</guid><pubDate>Sun, 23 Dec 2007 01:08:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2007-12-22T20:12:11.298-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">professional associations</category><title></title><description>Tips for Building Visibility at Professional Development MeetingsAttending a professional development meeting in the near future? Here are some suggestions for getting the most out of the event. <ul><li><o:p></o:p>Show up at events early so you can meet the speaker. It’s easier to build rapport before the presentation, when there are less people vying for the speaker’s attention. Follow-up with an email or card thanking the speaker for spending time with you prior to the presentation.</li></ul> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Ask a question during the Q&amp;A portion of the presentation. State your name and a brief one-liner about yourself before stating your question. This allows you to introduce yourself to everyone in the room and increase the likelihood that people will seek you out for a conversation later.</li></ul><ul><li>Thank the organizers before you leave. This is a nice gesture and a good way to build rapport with people who are close to the organization’s membership. Perhaps you’ll uncover an opportunity for you to assist with a future event and gain greater access to membership contacts.</li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2007/12/tips-for-building-visibility-at.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>2</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-7058335034246972009</guid><pubDate>Thu, 20 Dec 2007 05:10:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2007-12-20T00:13:48.364-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">informational interviews</category><title></title><description>Networking Rules Part 2 As a follow up to yesterday's post, here are some additional recommendations for successful networking. Give the other person a chance to speak. Ask questions. When you network it is imperative that you do not do all the talking. If you have asked another person for advice, make sure they have the opportunity to offer it. Also, when you do all the talking, the other person might feel confused and unsure of what they are supposed to do with the information you have supplied. Here are some questions you can ask to keep your exchange balanced and establish rapport.<o:p></o:p> • How long have you been with this company/field? • What do you like/dislike about your job? • What type of training do you need for positions such as yours? • What is the culture of this company and what are its guiding principles?<o:p></o:p> Ask for suggestions on how to expand your network. One of the main goals of networking is to tap into the network of the people you are meeting with. Each person you meet knows 200 or more people. If you can gain introductions to some of them, you quickly increase your network and your chances of finding the right connection. Ask your contacts if they can recommend a professional organization or the names of some other people you should be talking to.<o:p></o:p> Create a vehicle for follow up. If you want to establish rapport with another person, you need to create ways to keep the relationship going. Ask the person if you may keep them informed of your search progress. If you read an article that pertains to a discussion you had at a networking meeting, cut it out and send it to them with a brief note. Try to find at least two to three opportunities per year to reconnect with members of your network. <o:p></o:p> Find ways to reciprocate. Building a network is about creating a genuine, caring relationship. Thank your contact for the information they have supplied and see if you can help them in some way. Maybe your contact is interested in living in an area that you are familiar with or has a child interested in attending the same school you just graduated from. Share your knowledge of the school and your experience there as a way to help the other person. Keep notes on what you learn about your contacts so that future correspondence can have a personalized touch like “How was Jane’s first year of school?” <o:p></o:p> Send a thank you letter. Always thank your contacts in person and follow up with a letter. If your handwriting is legible, the personalized touch is always appreciated <o:p></o:p> Networking is an ongoing process. It requires persistence, attention, organization, and good will. Incorporate the art of networking into your job search campaign now and you will gain opportunities and build relationships that will last a lifetime.<o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2007/12/networking-rules-part-2-as-follow-up-to.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-3134602642622767430</guid><pubDate>Wed, 19 Dec 2007 05:29:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2007-12-19T00:35:06.299-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">business networking</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">informational interviews</category><title></title><description>Rules for Networking Success Part 1  Many people think that networking during a job search means calling everyone you know and asking them for a job. They associate networking with being pushy, overbearing, and an overall pest. People often shy away from networking because they don’t want to be labeled as this type of person. But research shows that 70-80% of all jobs are filled through networking. How can this be so, if networkers are such an annoying, self-serving lot?<o:p></o:p> Successful networkers are not egocentric, aggressive jerks. They show a sincere interest in their networking contacts. They work hard to develop a relationship, establish their credibility, and share information. They follow the rules of the game where everyone has something to gain. Like the lottery, you have to be in it to win it. Here are a few rules for successful networking.<o:p></o:p> Don’t ask for a job…Ask for information. Networking is not about asking everyone you know for a job. As a matter of fact, when you network you should never ask someone for a job…You ask them for information that will help you in your search. Your goal is to build a relationship and establish rapport so that if a potential opportunity becomes available in the future, they will want to refer you. Compare these two scenarios:<o:p></o:p> Scenario One “Joe, I’ve been out of work for six months and I’m really strapped for cash. Do you know of any open positions in your department?”<o:p></o:p> You’ve put Joe in a very difficult position. Sure, he can sympathize with your situation, but he may not be able to offer you a job. Perhaps he’s not in a position to refer you, or there’s a hiring freeze, or there aren’t any openings right now. Whatever answer Joe gives you, it’s bound to be disappointing. So to redeem himself, Joe says, “I don’t know of any open positions, but why don’t you give me your resume and I’ll send it to the HR department where I work.” Bad move. Unless your skills match a specific opening in the company at that point in time, it’s bound to never be looked at. Joe will feel that he’s done what he can for you, but you will be no better off.<o:p></o:p> Scenario Two ”Joe, as you know, I most recently worked for a medical device company in their marketing group. I know that you’ve been in pharmaceutical sales for the past 15 years and I’m very interested in learning more about marketing roles within your industry” I don’t expect you to know of any open positions in your organization, but I’d like the opportunity to speak with you briefly to learn more about your organization and the pharmaceutical industry in general.”<o:p></o:p> Joe may think, OK, here’s a friend that wants some information and sees me as some sort of expert on the topic. That’s kind of flattering. I guess I could spend a few minutes with him. Does Joe know you’re looking for a job? Probably. But you are not asking him for a job; you’re just asking him for advice and insight. The stakes are low and the expectations are reasonable, so he is more likely to help you. Don’t take up too much of the other person’s time. Have an agenda and keep the meeting on track. Nothing scares people more than the prospect of someone eating up a lot of their time. Many people don’t want to cram yet another meeting into their already jam packed day. Contrast these two situations:<o:p></o:p> Scenario One You meet with Mary after a mutual friend has agreed to help you set up a brief 20-minute meeting. You neglect to prepare for the meeting, ramble, get off topic and spend an hour and a half with her. Mary feels that you have abused the use of her time and you haven’t gotten to the critical questions you’d hoped to ask during the meeting. Mary feels burned and vows never to network again.<o:p></o:p> Scenario Two You walk into the meeting with a prepared mental agenda that includes: • A reminder of who referred you and perhaps some brief chit-chat about that mutual acquaintance. • A statement up front that you have no reason to believe Mary can offer you a position and a reiteration of why Mary’s information is of interest to you. • An explanation of your agenda. “Today I’d like to tell you a bit about myself and get your perspective on the future of the high-tech industry.” Remember to discuss your skills and accomplishments and show how you can add value to an organization.<o:p></o:p> By planning out your meeting ahead of time, you establish your professionalism, gain credibility, and cover all the critical agenda items.<o:p></o:p> Check back tomorrow for more networking strategies. <o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2007/12/rules-for-networking-success-part-1.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>1</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-1466674832312796241</guid><pubDate>Wed, 12 Dec 2007 22:50:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2007-12-12T17:57:18.734-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">job search research</category><title></title><description>Research Tools Part 3 Here is the last installment in my three part series on job search research tools. The Corporate Finance Sourcebook features over 1,900 of today's top investment sources and over 1,400 service firms. <o:p></o:p>Securities Industry Yearbook includes information on individual securities firms, such as key personnel and department heads, number of customer accounts, registered representatives, offices, and capital. <o:p></o:p> <o:p></o:p>Standard &amp; Poor's Security Dealers of North America is a comprehensive guide to brokerage and investment banking firms in the <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> and <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">Canada</st1:country-region></st1:place>. The Directory contains all the facts you need for conveniently locating firms and facilitating transactions. This bi-annual publication includes thoroughly researched listings on over 5,000 main offices and 10,000 branches along with information on key executives and department managers and their addresses, phone/fax numbers and internet and email addresses.<o:p></o:p> ABA Financial Institutions Directory lists head office and branch listings for all banks, savings institutions, and top credit unions along with names of officers in key departments including finance, loans, operations, and marketing.<o:p></o:p> Gold Book of Venture Capital Firms is a comprehensive directory of venture capital firms arranged by geographic location with indexes by industry, stage of funding, key principals, and a listing of firms in alphabetical order. Each listing contains key statistics such as a sampling of portfolio companies, amount of capital invested, preferred investment size and industries served. <o:p></o:p> <o:p></o:p>Careers in Public Accounting: A Comprehensive Comparison of the Top Tier Firms compares "top tier" firms, including profiles and various articles covering current events and trends that might impact the industry and employment within the industry.<o:p></o:p> <o:p></o:p>Take the time to incorporate some good old fashioned research into your search strategy. You will gain more immediate access to the hidden job market, increase your number of quality leads, and possibly decrease the amount of time you spend in search.<o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2007/12/research-tools-part-3-here-is-last.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-4550161102190322702</guid><pubDate>Wed, 12 Dec 2007 03:26:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2007-12-11T22:32:05.023-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">company research</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">job search</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">library searches</category><title></title><description>Research Tools Part 2As a follow up to yesterday's post, here are some more great research tools. The Directory of Top Computer Executives concentrates on organizations that have the highest potential to be supporting large IT functions. For an organization to be listed it must have a full-time VP, Director, or Manager of IT; have a multi-user host computer; or have more than 75 deployed PCs in the U.S. or 25 in Canada. The Directory lists the top-ranking individual over the IT function, such as the CIO or VP, Director, or Manager of information technology. In addition, second-level managers (which directly report to the top executive) include the manager of software development, manager of operations, manager of networking/data communications, manager of microcomputers, and the manager of technical support.<o:p></o:p> Consulting &amp; Consulting Organizations Directory contains more than 25,000 consulting firms and independent consultants that operate throughout the <st1:country-region st="on">United States</st1:country-region> and <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">Canada</st1:country-region></st1:place>. More than 400 specialties are represented including finance, computers, fundraising, advertising, and more. It covers top consulting firms and individuals in several general areas of consulting activity including business and finance management, marketing and sales, manufacturing, transportation, operations, computer technology, telecommunications and information services, engineering, science and technology, architecture, construction and interior design art, graphics and communications media, environment, geology, and land use agriculture, forestry, and landscaping, politics and social issues human resources development, education and personal development, health, medicine, and safety.<o:p></o:p> Thomas Register of American Manufacturers allows you to look up a brand name and find out the name of the company that makes the product.<o:p></o:p> Standard Directory of International Advertisers and Agencies lists 1,800 advertising agencies, advertising expenditures, personnel, and clients.<o:p></o:p> The Corporate Finance Sourcebook features over 1,900 of today's top investment sources and over 1,400 service firms. <o:p></o:p> Nelson Information's Directory of Investment Managers profiles investment managers and investment specialties and includes addresses and web URLs. Check back tomorrow for Part 3. <o:p></o:p>  <div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2007/12/research-tools-part-2-as-follow-up-to.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>7</thr:total></item><item><guid isPermaLink="false">tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18952744.post-2062712272092853644</guid><pubDate>Tue, 11 Dec 2007 04:14:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2007-12-10T23:19:09.537-05:00</atom:updated><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">company research</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">job search</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">library searches</category><category domain="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#">reference guides</category><title></title><description>Job Search Research Tools Part 1 I love doing research on the Internet and I frequently direct my clients to job relevant resources on the web. But for certain research, you just can’t beat the public library. Some of the best research tools online are fee based, but you can gain access to these same resources in book form at your local library. Whether you need to search for recruiters, networking leads, or decision makers, the library can provide priceless (and free) access to numerous search-relevant materials. Below are a few of my favorites:<o:p></o:p> The Corporate Directory of U.S. Public Companies contains essential financial and business data for over 11,000 <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region></st1:place> public companies. The directory is the only publication to provide salaries and ages of officers and directors as well as their full names and titles.<o:p></o:p> The Encyclopedia of Associations is a comprehensive source of detailed information on 22,000 American associations of national scope. They also publish an International Organization listing of 22,300 associations and a regional, state, and local organization listing with 115,000 entries. Included in the reference book are addresses and descriptions of professional societies, trade associations, labor unions, cultural, and religious organizations.<o:p></o:p> Kennedy Guide to Executive Recruiters published annually, this national guide includes recruiter names, addresses, phone and fax numbers, and web and email addresses. An international version of the book is also available.<o:p></o:p> The Directory of Top Computer Executives concentrates on organizations that have the highest potential to be supporting large IT functions. For an organization to be listed it must have a full-time VP, Director, or Manager of IT; have a multi-user host computer; or have more than 75 deployed PCs in the U.S. or 25 in Canada. The Directory lists the top-ranking individual over the IT function, such as the CIO or VP, Director, or Manager of information technology. In addition, second-level managers (which directly report to the top executive) include the manager of software development, manager of operations, manager of networking/data communications, manager of microcomputers, and the manager of technical support.Check back tomorrow for some more great tools! <o:p></o:p><div class="blogger-post-footer">Career Solvers offers a suite of career management services including résumé writing and distribution, career marketing, targeted research campaigns, behavioral profiling, and interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching. It is our mission to empower you with solutions that enable you to successfully navigate your career course.</div></description><link>http://careersolvers.blogspot.com/2007/12/job-search-research-tools-part-1-i-love.html</link><author>noreply@blogger.com (Barbara Safani)</author><thr:total>0</thr:total></item></channel></rss>

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