Monthly Archives: January 2014

Whether you’re looking for your first-ever job or your 10th, you’ll run into myths about landing a job. Don’t let these myths distract you from doing what it really takes to find and land the job you want. Myth 1: My Experience Will Get Me a Job It’s true -- the experience you have is an important part of landing a job. But it’s not as important as you might think, warns Gregg Ward of Orlando-Ward & Associates Inc. “Many hiring managers are much more interested in whether or not you’re the right ‘fit’ for their team,” he says. “You…

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Do you know that most applicants don’t send a post-interview thank-you letter? Even if you think an offer is in the bag, you can always improve your chances of getting the job if you send a thank-you letter. Your letter should reiterate your core strengths and emphasize the value you offer. You can even squelch any concerns the employer raised about your qualifications and add important information you didn’t get to discuss in the interview. Check out this sample thank-you letter: John Smith 14 Elm St. | Sometown, CA 55555 | 555-555-5555 | john@somedomain.com   [Date] Ms. Amy Lin Manager ABC…

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You had your interview, and the way it ended left you hopeful. Now comes what is often the most agonizing part of the job hunt: waiting for the hiring manager to call. But you still have some control over the process. Experts offer the following advice on maximizing your chances for success: Send Thank-You Notes Don't stress too much over whether your interview thank-you letter is emailed or handwritten. The most important thing is to send it. "Even if you think you've got it in the bag, there are people who expect that letter," says Laura DeCarlo, president of Career Directors International, a…

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The American workplace is much different than it was 10  or so years ago: Everything from corporate structure and hiring practices to work schedules and compensation has been affected. But these important areas are not the only marked differences in today's changing workplace. The appearance of the American worker has changed as well. Not long ago, everyone from the most seasoned professionals to entry-level employees had a common understanding of appropriate business attire. Thanks to the creation of the "khaki culture" and increasing popularity of business casual dress, it's no longer that simple. So how do you dress down for…

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Men’s interview dressing has been fairly static over the years. In fact, it’s pretty much the same whether you’re applying for an entry-level position or for something higher up. The difference is that the entry-level guy isn’t expected to have as many -- or as expensive -- high-quality clothes. For a second or third interview, the new grad would wear different shirts and ties but might understandably trot out the same suit; someone applying for a managerial role or something more senior could not do the same. So what are the overall dos and don’ts for men’s interview fashion? Check…

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Everyone knows you should look your best for an interview, but what if you can't afford -- or can’t fit into your old -- fancy work clothes? Not to worry. We’ve got some cost-conscious tips for pulling together stylish interview outfits. Access Accessories The easiest way to look like an A-list candidate on a D-list budget is to accessorize wisely. The right accent piece shows you know how to dress for an interview, tastefully and inexpensively. Start by putting your best foot forward -- literally -- and invest in a really good pair of shoes. “You don't need to go crazy…

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The Job Market continues to be competitive and you must customize your cover letter to match your resume and LinkedIn profile. Employers will screen out job seekers that do not show consistency. Each time you update your resume, you must update your LinkedIn Profile. If you have changed job targets, it is even more important to change your resume and Social Media presence. If it appears that you are mass mailing your resume, you stand little chance of being contacted or interviewed. It takes time to customize your information, but the pay-off is well worth your effort. Your cover letter…

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One of the most frequent concerns upon termination is how to explain you are no longer working at your previous employer.  Many people believe a stigma is attached to being terminated.  In the “real world” there are hiring authorities that will discriminate against an individual who has been fired.  On the other hand, other hiring authorities are more than willing to hear your story and then make a determination whether or not the termination will ultimately effect their decision.  With the number of mergers and downsizing that have occurred, being terminated does not carry as much negative connotation as it…

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