tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79111052265961034422012-02-02T19:24:20.493-05:00WEBINAR CAREER COACHING career/social media coaching; social media strategies for job search; classes by phone; webinarsMelissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.comBlogger2071100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-4629692893672104512012-02-02T19:22:00.003-05:002012-02-02T19:24:20.502-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>Are you READY to return to work?</b></a><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b> </b></a><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>The decision to return to work is a thorny issue , one that is rooted in a number of issues affecting the unemployed. Among the thousands of clients I have assisted, including adults with severe mental illnesses, the decision to work again, or to end a lengthy absence from the workforce necessitates careful thought and reflection. I wish I could credit the author of a resource called the “Readiness checklist.”&nbsp; The resource is organized into three categories:</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>-Can you...?</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>-Are you....?</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>-Do you...? </b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>Leaving aside conventional wisdom, let’s put the “Readiness checklist” into context for you.&nbsp;</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>1. In order&nbsp; to initiate employment readiness, can you set SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely) goals? Goal setting, more than any other activity in a conscious job search, is most likely to propel&nbsp; motivation, but one caveat. If setting goals seems daunting, do one simply thing-break them down into concrete steps.</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>&nbsp;Seek new ways of using your skills. Volunteer, become a board member, contribute to a social or charitable cause. &nbsp;When you are unemployed, doesn’t it seem like you have to juggle many things at once? A last-minute phone call to attend an interview, affects the ability to find respite care or an employer requests that you fill out a lengthy online application before even being considered a job candidate. All of sudden, the length of unemployment is trumped by employers’ increased demands. All the more reason why time management, resilience (i.e. dealing with rejection) and coping skills become &nbsp;important while you await your job offer.</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>2. Are you worried about stress from other people or things that may affect your ability to get or keep work?&nbsp; Take heart that being unemployed for a time, does not have the same stigma that people experienced ten years ago. Certainly, I cannot negate that those who have been absent for the workforce for a considerable amount of time face a greater disadvantage. However, that’s where building one’s confidence, with the assistance of a career professional such as a career coach, or job developer, can make a monumental difference.&nbsp; This process make seem time consuming,&nbsp; but you are worth it? Crafting a professional image, combined with identifying a USP (unique selling points) will be time invested, before preparing for upcoming job interviews. </b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>3. Do you know what your challenges are, personal or professional? For example, are you experiencing an ongoing illness or disability which may curtail full-time employment? This refers to “work tolerance skills,” in other words, do you have the ability to accept part-time employment as a springboard to ultimate full-time employment? Sometimes accepting an entry level position, especially after a lengthy absence from the workplace, is just the ticket to building one’s confidence, one shift at a time. &nbsp;I have assisted individuals with professional backgrounds (i.e. nursing, military, etc), who chose to return to work on their own terms, and not dictated by family pressures. &nbsp;At the same time, do you have the supports (ie. Family and friends, community resources, etc) to overcome challenges? This is where self-advocacy skills come into play.&nbsp;</b></a><br /><br /><b><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451">Be aware of community resources such as&nbsp; job centers or government subsidized programmes.&nbsp; You might be surprised at the number of unemployed individuals, who at the beginning of their job search, are resistant to asking for employment assistance. I say beginning because the unemployment cycle resembles the stages of grief: shock, anger, denial and acceptance.</a></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>To sum up, a term that I learned in the military was WIN. What’s important now?</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>Melissa Martin</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>Bilingual career/social media strategist</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>Twitter: @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>Facebook fan page: facebook.com/careercoachingbyphone/melissacynthiamartin2</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><b>Blog: webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com</b></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><br /></a></div><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=462969289367210451"><br /></a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-462969289367210451?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-62837913557114872252012-01-30T16:31:00.000-05:002012-01-30T16:31:25.500-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>Hi job seekers,<br /><br />Today's takeway lesson is quicker than usual.<br /><br />Don't allow the "F" word to interfere with your job search.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XCOk8wDNO-E/TycLeYHe3II/AAAAAAAAAFM/Akd_HR6PQS4/s1600/FAILURE+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XCOk8wDNO-E/TycLeYHe3II/AAAAAAAAAFM/Akd_HR6PQS4/s320/FAILURE+(1).jpg" width="258" /></a></div>Job searches remain considerably long (currently 33 weeks in the United States for example). So, &nbsp;time is of the essence to land a job amid the sea of competition (roughly 1 job seeker in the U.S. competes against 5 others. In the same vein, 3.3 people in Canada compete for the same job).<br /><br /><strong>Failure </strong>often derails a job search UNLESS you take steps to prevent that.<br /><br />Two quick remedies? <br /><br />1. Make the <strong>effor</strong>t to regularly evaluate the success of your job search. That doesn't mean settling for the passive route of "blasting" your resume to numerous job boards. It means carrying out a sales/marketing plan to get RESULTS. Calculate how many of your job activities produced one phone call from a potential employer in a month. &nbsp;Or an interview offer. Imagine!<br /><br />2. Make the time valuable. In&nbsp;a previous post, the <u>Wall Street Journal</u> published a study that indicated Americans only spend 40 minutes in a daily job search versus 3 hours and 20 minutes of watching TV!<br /><br />Replace failure (self-perception) with ACTION and achieve results exponentially in your job search!<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career/social media strategist<br />Twitter: @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin<br />Facebook fan page: www.facebook.com/careercoachingbyphone.com/melissacynthiamartin2<br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6283791355711487225?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-16793629123501817632012-01-30T16:20:00.000-05:002012-01-30T16:20:38.282-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ps3zR9GLJU/Tyb8Vf-IUkI/AAAAAAAAAFE/HbT1OGX9hKA/s1600/images.rep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ps3zR9GLJU/Tyb8Vf-IUkI/AAAAAAAAAFE/HbT1OGX9hKA/s1600/images.rep.jpg" /></a></div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">In a previous post on http://<b>webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com</b>, I emphasized the importance of "keeping your online ID squeaky clean." &nbsp;This is so vital in preserving your online reputation, while you search for a job, prepare for an interview or change careers. &nbsp;Employers, hiring managers and recruiters <b>are</b> scrutinizing job candidates, whether they are actively or passively engaged in a job search. Don't fool yourself into believing otherwise. A compromising online identity can ruin your chances of being considered a potential job candidate. Just today, I read a story on ResumeBear.com that featured "Linkedin avatars gone wrong." &nbsp;All the more reason to choose how you want to be portrayed online.</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">Microsoft released an infographic survey this week which stated that "only 44 percent of adults...think about the long term impact of their online activities on their personal reputation." &nbsp;To explore my findings, check out the story on www.neowin.net<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Segoe UI', Segoe, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><i>. This sobering statistic has direct relevance to an effective job search.</i></span></span></a></div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">So how can you tell what is being said about you online? Let me share some key web sites. Whether you're just starting to embrace social media as part of your "360 degree job market</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">1. <b>Tweettalk</b>-As the name suggests, the site allows you to track what's being said about you on Twitter.</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">2. <b>Socialmention</b>-This is a search engine that spans various social media channels</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">3. <b>Klout-</b>I enjoy this site. It is fun, immediate and revealing. You have the option of signing in with Twitter or Facebook. Upon completing a profile (with a professional picture of course!), the site collects information &nbsp;to produce a score analysis of topics, your online influence and and accomplishments. Wouldn't this be a golden opportunity to "shine online" in front of potential employers? (Who needs a traditional resume anyway. However, we can broach that topic another time!)</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">4. <b>Repcloud</b>-A Facebook application that allows you to see what's is being conveyed about you, based on information from the community and your friends. By adding Replcloud to your FB account, you can &nbsp;The site enables others to "tag" people they know, using any descriptor, such as "smart."&nbsp;</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">5.</a><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">&nbsp;<b>Who's talkin'</b>-A blog search tool that connects users with the latest conversations on social media networks. For example, a friend of mine posted about my Twitter seminar at a major career conference last week.</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br />Given the abundance of these online identity resources, there is little excuse to have a questionable online identity. &nbsp;In other words, it is within <u>your control </u>to enhance an online image that compliments your professional brand.<br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763">Melissa Martin, bilingual career/social media strategist</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><b>blog</b>: webinarcareercoach. blogspot.com</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><b>Twitter:</b> @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><b>Facebook fan page</b>: www.facebook.com/careercoachingbyhone/melissacynthiamartin2</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=1679362912350181763"><br /></a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1679362912350181763?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-1111369991308129142012-01-28T23:16:00.000-05:002012-01-28T23:16:00.053-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><br />Cat suits, pyjamas and crazy hats among most unusual interview attire: Survey from the Canadian HR Reporter (<a href="http://www.hrreporter.com/">http://www.hrreporter.com/</a>)<br /><br />HR managers reveal the <strong>strangest outfits</strong> worn by job candidates during an <strong>interview</strong><br /><br />A cat suit, fishnets, tie-dye and a baseball cap. What do all of these have in common? They are just some of the strange outfits some candidates decided to wear to a job interview, according to a new survey.<br /><br />Staffing firm OfficeTeam asked 670 HR managers to recount the strangest interview outfits they had heard of or seen. <br /><br />Following are some examples: <br /><br />• A top held up with a big safety pin<br /><br />• Leather pants and cowboy boots<br />• Jeans with suspenders<br />• Spandex<br /><br />• A cat suit<br />• A crazy hat<br />• A braid with pink bows<br /><br />• A Star Trek T-shirt<br /><br />Job candidates should always dress to impress when meeting with employers. Unfortunately, these flashy outfits were more fitting for a night on the town than an interview: <br /><br />• A tube top<br /><br />• A micromini and fishnet stockings<br /><br />• A sequined top<br /><br />• A leather vest with no shirt<br /><br />• A very low cut blouse<br /><br />Then there were those who channelled the '80s with these getups: <br /><br />• Acid-washed jeans<br /><br />• A tie-dye T-shirt from the '80s<br /><br />• A tank top and baggy jeans<br /><br />• A shirt off the shoulder<br /><br />• Dressing up as a 'Goth'<br /><br />Perhaps these applicants were simply trying to show good sportsmanship by donning the following athletic gear: <br /><br />&nbsp;A basketball jersey<br /><br />• A jogging suit<br /><br />• A baseball cap<br /><br />• Tennis shoes<br />• Yoga or exercise clothes<br /><br />A confident, relaxed attitude is key during the interview, but these next examples prove that you can be too casual: <br /><br />• A sweatshirt and sweatpants<br /><br />• A cut-off t-shirt and pants<br /><br />• Pyjamas with slippers<br /><br />• A bandana and torn jeans<br /><br />Interviews can be a sink or swim situation, but these jobseekers were too literal in their interpretation: <br /><br />• Bermuda shorts<br /><br />&nbsp;• A Hawaiian shirt and jeans<br /><br />Finally, this wardrobe "don't" should have been obvious: <br /><br />• An applicant wore the uniform from his former employer.<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media strategist<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YW65Y86kh6U/TyTH4TMNjKI/AAAAAAAAAE8/eYSvMKH-neQ/s1600/imagesCA3B9B33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YW65Y86kh6U/TyTH4TMNjKI/AAAAAAAAAE8/eYSvMKH-neQ/s1600/imagesCA3B9B33.jpg" /></a></div>Twitter:@melissacmartin and @ravingredhead<br />---------------------------------------------------</div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-111136999130812914?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-25965510502585093722012-01-23T19:42:00.000-05:002012-01-23T19:42:08.463-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cz5BEfmUc_g/TV3V3L0KvBI/AAAAAAAAACQ/PISHeMdpBEg/s1600/imagesCA4R9MSN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cz5BEfmUc_g/TV3V3L0KvBI/AAAAAAAAACQ/PISHeMdpBEg/s1600/imagesCA4R9MSN.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Some call it your "digital footprint," others refer to your online personal brand.<br />No matter what kind of online activity in which you are engaged, be mindful about what you post. <u>Employers are watching carefully</u>. And they are making fast and furious judgements about what kind of company you keep on the net and whether you demonstrate "online etiquette." The rationale about this is that employers are trying to investigate what your psychological behaviour is on the internet. After all, social media is, as one pundit phrased it, "the psychology of people." <br /><br />In relation to your online "behaviour,"&nbsp;I have a sobering statistic to pass onto job seekers. Recently, Microsoft just held its 4th annual data privacy day. In a survey involving Americans, 70% reportedly said that they would <strong>disqualify a candidate</strong>, based on his/her online information."&nbsp; Unfortunately, the salient information that related to employers' disqualifications were not made public. How ironic.<br /><div><br />Watch for Microscoft to announce the launch of&nbsp;a software called Social Connector.&nbsp;The purpose of the software, which is an add-on feature, apparently allows someone to see the online communication (s) from individuals who have sent you email messages. This allows you, in turn, to see your email recipients' social activities, as well as the lists of contacts in your social network.&nbsp; (Sounds a bit like Big Brother to me. The predictions in George Orwell's famed book <u>1984 </u>appear to be alive and well. In fact, over one hundred of Orwell's predictions came true). The lesson here is that&nbsp;it is going to become increasingly difficult to filter strategically&nbsp;your online communications in the future.<br /><br />Have you checked whether your online ID is squeaky clean? There is a free tool called <a href="http://www.onlineidcalculator.com/">http://www.onlineIDcalculator.com/</a> If the results reveal that you should exercise caution, be careful. One wrongful move such as a careless communication, unsavoury email or questionable picture on Facebook could be the ruin of your job search. And it is very difficult, although possible, to erase compromising online data.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual social media specialist and ebook author, <strong><u>How to use social media in your job search</u></strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Follow me on <a href="mailto:Twitter@ravingredhead">Twitter@ravingredhead</a><br />Facebook fan page:www.facebook.com/areercoachingbyphonecommelissacynthiamartin2<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><b><br /></b></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2596551050258509372?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-18664000614486301972012-01-23T19:40:00.001-05:002012-01-23T19:41:18.328-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>When was the last time you used Yellow pages? Perhaps the online version, yellowpages.com? I was inspired by a Yellow pages ad in the<u> Globe and Mail </u>newspaper. The newspaper featured a "360 degree online marketing strategy." The seven aspects of the strategy all directly applied to an online marketing strategy for your job search.<br /><br />1. <strong>yellowpages.com</strong> is an invaluable source for tapping into the hidden job market.<br />Job search solution: <a href="http://www.twellow.com/">www.twellow.com</a>&nbsp; If you are on Twitter (and you should be to showcase your skills and experience, connect with influential contacts and portray&nbsp;yourself as a subject matter expert).<br /><br />2.<strong>&nbsp;Yellow pages directory</strong>.<br />If you are on Twitter (and you should be to showcase your skills and experience, connect with influential contacts and portray yourself as a subject matter expert), use&nbsp;this site to look up a directory of people in your designated industry.<br /><br />3. <strong>Site optimization solutions</strong><br />Job search solution: Make the most of optimizing your social media profiles. For example, if you are networking on linkedin.com, maximize your visibility by showering your summary and profile with keywords. It is these keywords that make you found easier by hiring managers and recruiters. And yes, Google does like linkedin.com for site optimization! Ensure&nbsp;that all of your social media platforms are communicating the same professional brand. Use the same keywords, if possible, on your other social media platyforms. You want to be visible to potential employers with a clean online identitiy, as opposed to dishing out "digital dirt," or unsavoury online messages. If make a mark by an online post, Tweet, comment on a page, you may show up promimently in a <strong>Google alert.</strong> What a compliment to your professional brand! Some recommended Tweteers who deal with this topic are:<br /><a href="mailto:-@SeoSkye">-@SeoSkye</a><br />@GoogleSEOservs<br /><br />4. <strong>Mobile apps</strong><br />Job search solution: Sign up for mobile apps for your job search.&nbsp;You'll be&nbsp;glad you did. <strong>Twitter</strong> is often portrayed as a real time job board. &nbsp;Tweeters can take advantage of job posting apps. Why not increase your accessibility to jobs by signing up for job alerts on your iPhone, Blackberry or mobile phone. The instant a recruiter or employer posts an opportunity, you'll be alerted on your mobile.<br />Some of my Twitter followers who specialize in this category include:<br />@Locita (French)<br />@briteapps<br />@wiredtweets<br />5. <strong>Digital media advice</strong>.<br />Job search solution: Seek out the sages. Join groups; there's strength in numbers.&nbsp;Especially if you're unemployed, read about the latest trends in your industry. Ask questions, share resources, and swallow your pride by asking for advice on how trump up your digital marketing activities. Set a weekly goal by choosing some new activities. With the current unemployment statistics&nbsp; you cannot afford to dismiss the notion of&nbsp;constantly revamping your digital marketing efforts. Competition is fierce out there!<br />6. <strong>Performance reports</strong><br />Job search solution: There is no better solidifier than offering a potential employer a testimonial. When I have helped outgoing military members who are transitioning to the civilian world, (based on my personal and professional affiliation to the military), I have suggested that they use their PER's or performance evaluation reports for résumé writing and interview preparation. Likewise, civilians can use their exemplary performance evaluations to be highlighted in their profiles and résumés. These can be considered testimonials. And speaking of testimonials, use some social media apps such as <strong>branchout.com</strong> to feature powerful endorsements about you. (See my previous blog post on branchout.com). On Facebook, you can use <strong>beknown.com</strong> to highlight your stellar reputation or <strong>comeRecommended.com</strong> Twitter has the equivalent. On <strong>linkedin.com</strong>, ask for influential contacts to write you a recommendation (I have posted about this point on this blog). <br /><br />6. <strong>website</strong><br />You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by creating your PURL (personal URL) or web site.<br />There is a plethora of sites to promote your professional brand. Some ideas may include:<br />-visualize.me&nbsp; You can turn your resume into an infographic. It's now in the beta version.<br />-about.me&nbsp; This is another beta platform that allows you to promote you. You can see my example on<br />about.me/melissamartin<br /><br />The concept of 360 degrees has been applied to human resources practices. It is widespread and relies on multiple sources of information and applications. The 360 degree solution is tweeted by @360jobint to help job seekers prepare fully for job interviews.<br />Now's the time to apply your 360 degree digital marketing strategy. <br />"Fortune favours the bold" the ancient Romans said. Wisdom isn't just ancient, it becomes contemporary.<br /><br />Melissa Martin<br />bilingual career/social media strategist<br />Twitter: @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />Skype: melissacynthiamartin<br /><br /></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1866400061448630197?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-24421756018707529352012-01-23T19:37:00.002-05:002012-01-24T19:45:50.788-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><br /><img src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR0-RmwDL5wJwrdqFTocPzPfFWt32fJ95AdOBoS3gTRGAEMQy-r" /> <br /><br />The Chinese New Year has just ushered in. According to the Chinese lunar calendar, it is 7210. Do you &nbsp;No, &nbsp;The Chinese new year operates on a twelve year cycle, based on one's birthday and birth year. Unlike the Western astrological model which features Zodiac signs, the Eastern version is characterized by <strong>twelve distinct animals</strong> to denote interests and differences.<br /><br />Have you broken your New Year's resolution? Relax. The statistics indicate that many well-intentioned people break their New year's resolution within a month, however, you can refocus, re-energize and relaunch your job/career goals with new vigour. Enter the <strong>year of the dragon</strong>!&nbsp; Not only can you use the&nbsp;Chinese astrological system to find&nbsp;a fit&nbsp;between you and a personal mate, you can also search for an ideal&nbsp;job!<br /><br />Here's a quick sampling of all <strong>12 Chinese astrological animals</strong> and how you can capitalize on their&nbsp;key traits&nbsp;to&nbsp;propel your job&nbsp;search:<br /><br /><strong>Tigers</strong> (I am the quintessential one!):&nbsp; bold, adventurous, impulsive.<br />Use a bold, multi-layered approach to a job search. Aim for being unique and distinctive in attacting job leads and potential employers.<br /><br /><strong>Rat</strong>: charming, socialable and restless.<br />Many occupations require these traits (i.e. sales, public relations, etc). Look up <strong>Holland's 6 personality types</strong> to find an ideal fit with these traits.<br /><br /><strong>Ox</strong>: strong-willed, determined, ambitious, stubborn<br />The average job search for a North American is 4-6 months or 1 month for every $10,000/yr you wish to earn. Stay focused and persevere!<br /><br /><strong>Rabbit</strong>: peace-loving, shrewd, prudent, perceptive<br />The hare didn't "beat" the tortoise in the race for a reason. Be strategic and purposeful. <br />Perhaps a humanitarian, leadership role may be suitable for rabbits.<br /><br /><strong>Dragon:</strong> active, confident, honest, lucky<br />An effective job search is crafted with care and entices decision makers to consider you as a serious contender in the hiring process. According to Emily Lee, "they are born achievers and won't let anything, or anyone, stand in their way (<b>Chinese Love signs</b>, p. 44).<br /><br /><strong>Snake</strong>: wise, thoughtful, guarded, slow-moving<br />(See the rabbit in&nbsp;the race reference). Slow-moving job searches are not optimal generally, but a qualitative vs. quantitative approach which may require more time; this approach often pays dividends.<br /><br /><strong>Horse</strong>: active, alert, sociable<br />Cold comfort that as much of 80% of a company turnover rate relates to a faulty hiring process.<br />Convince employers that you deliver a high ROI (return on investment).<br /><br /><strong>Goat</strong>: creative, kind, easygoing, sensitive<br />Smart&nbsp;networking fuses sales and marketing with&nbsp;an approach to helping contacts.Your effort to help contacts&nbsp;rather than to "exploit" them will draw attention. Networking is a reciprocal relationship between the job seeker and the "weak ties" in your network.<br /><br /><strong>Monkey</strong>: versatile, charming, sociable, cunning<br />Techniques like "reverse networking" and the "strategy of the strong" beat out your competition in finding a job. <br /><br /><strong>Rooster</strong>: methodical, efficient, proud, candid<br />Your <strong>personal brand</strong> on and offline will be healthier if you take advantage of these traits. To calculate your online ID, go to <a href="http://www.onlineidcalculator.com/">http://www.onlineidcalculator.com/</a><br /><br /><strong>Dog</strong>: honest, trusting, perceptive, cynical<br />Roughly 32% of new hires do not advance beyond the probation period. Your professional credo needs to be authentic and trustworthy for an employer to hire you.<br /><br /><strong>Pig</strong>: sincere, sociable, hard-working, stubborn<br />Evaluate your self-marketing tools, such as your resume, cover letter and online identity.<br />How would employers perceive you as a job candidate? Does your offline identity project confidence and credibility? <br /><br />To identify your individual Chinese astrological sign, look up your birth year and birthday, based on the 12 year cycle.<br />I would love to take a poll on my blog at webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, <strong>How to use social media in your job search</strong><br />Twitter: @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin<br />Facebook fan page: www.facebook.com/careercoachingbyphone.com/melissacynthiamartin2<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><br /><div><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><br /><br /><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2442175601870752935?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-3111433464838939042012-01-23T19:28:00.000-05:002012-01-23T19:28:26.261-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><br /><br /><img alt="View Approved ...PNG in slide show" class="Thumb" height="135" src="http://sn127w.snt127.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&amp;messageId=d0158194-6b7c-11e0-9bb8-00237de325a8&amp;Aux=2104|0|8CDCDA0F989D850||0|0|0|0|1|5&amp;maxwidth=220&amp;maxheight=160&amp;size=Att" style="height: 135px; width: 220px;" title="View Approved ...PNG in slide show" width="220" /><br /><br />Audio of webinar<br />Twitter: How to Tap into this High-powered Job Search Tool<br /><br /><br />April 19, 2011<br /><br />Job seekers, I have three questions for you:<br /><br />■Still haven’t opened a Twitter account to bolster your job search?<br /><br />■Are you NEW to social media?<br /><br />■Is your current job search stalled?<br /><br />Attend my FREE webinar called, “Twitter: Tap into the High-powered Job Search Tool.” The New York Times called Twitter, “One of the fastest growing phenomena on the internet.”<br /><br />In this 60 minute webinar, I&nbsp;show you 5<strong> secrets to using Twitter as a job search tool</strong>:<br /><br />1.Create a powerful profile to attract potential employers and recruiters. Employers don’t hire generic employees. Create a profile that shows your winning brand!<br /><br />2.Learn how to gain an audience (followers) in days. Using social media involves time and investment. It only takes a few steps to gain followers if you use Twitter to your advantage.<br /><br />3.Whet your appetite with Twitter applications to increase your online visibility. Twitter features some applications that allow you to link your brand to other social media outlets for effective online presence.<br /><br />4.Use hashtags to start a global conversation. Hashtags are a useful tool to narrow down your area of concentration and connect with others in your desired field.<br /><br />5.Search strategically to land job leads and penetrate the hidden job market.<br /><br />Also, you will discover:<br /><br />■How to tap into influential contacts<br /><br />■How to demonstrate your USP (unique selling points) to employers<br /><br />■How to find stars in your field<br /><br />■How to create a Twitpitch<br /><br />Melissa C. Martin is a bilingual career coach who specializes in offering career and social media coaching by phone.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.careerealism.com/how-use-twitter-job-search/">www.careerealism.com/how-use-twitter-job-search/</a><br /><br /><div class="ecxSection1"><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Melissa,</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Earlier today, I registered for both Twitter and Facebook, having no prior experience with either social network (I am an active LinkedIn user). It was fortunate that your Twitter webinar was scheduled tonight, so I had some basic information to learn about. I want to compliment you for an interesting and informative webinar.</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Please advise when you will be providing future webinars. Many thanks!</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Joe Messner</span></span></div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Coraopolis, PA (suburban Pittsburgh)</span></span></div></div><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-311143346483893904?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-66011072196774989762012-01-02T20:53:00.003-05:002012-01-02T21:04:41.033-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><h1>&nbsp;</h1><div class="box"><div class="box_txt">article from&nbsp; Melissa C, Martin <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogs/~careerealism">Careerealism</a></div><div class="comments"></div><div class="clear"></div></div><div class="blogRight"><img alt="Networking Event" height="225" src="http://www.ibtimes.com/data/blogs_editor/careerealism/Networking-Event-300x225.jpg" style="border: 0px currentColor; float: left; margin-right: 10px;" title="10 Ways to Use Speed Networking in Your Job Search | CAREEREALISM" width="300" />Regardless of whether you are married or with a significant other, no doubt you've heard of "speed dating."<br />The goal is to talk to many potential dates as possible, in a tight time frame, with just enough time to say your name and see if there's any chemistry (or <em>chimie</em>, as we say in French), with the other partner.<br />No matter what your opinion is, speed dating and trying to find chemistry with a potential employer who shares commonalities. Now that commonality has transitioned into a trend called <strong>speed networking.</strong><br />Here's what to do before attending a speed networking event:<br /><strong>1. Despite the brevity of time you may have with a potential employer, first impressions do count.</strong> Invest in (not just make) a first impression that you will make you memorable, inviting and enticing to develop the next stage - a possible meeting or screening interview.<br /><strong>2. Mind your manners.</strong> Despite the many modern technical devices that impede communication, social etiquette and emotional intelligence give you a noticeable advantage over someone who doesn't have the foresight to know manners are sought by employers. Those in a <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/interviewer-competitive-intelligence/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">job search</a> who have gracious social etiquette are more likely to receive referrals and establish rapport quicker than those who have poor deportment (something highly prized in the military).<br />When I attended a seminar on a military base with Catherine Bell, I distinctly remember how she taught the audience to shake hands correctly. This custom in itself sets a tone from the job seeker to a potential employer. A handshake can represent an accurate confidence rating on the part of the job seeker. (I must confess despite the high profile of women in the workforce, some still have the tendency to have a "limp" handshake, which conveys a lack of confidence).<br /><strong>3. Take notes while you chat with them.</strong> It is wise to "break the ice" with an employer, even for a moment, to resist the temptation to "dive into" a self-serving conversation with a potential employer. Try to build rapport by engaging in benign small talk before advancing to your prime objective - to generate chemistry between you and the employer.<br /><strong>4. Bring calling cards or business cards with your online and offline co-ordinates.</strong> For example, your LinkedIn account or a link to your blog. Especially advantageous is proof of affiliations to which you belong or memberships of some kind.<br /><strong>5. Communicate what you can offer.</strong> I often use the terms ROI (return on investment) and USP (unique selling points) to demonstrate your value to employers.<br /><strong>6. Communicate more like a consultant or solution-finder than a job seeker.</strong> In the course of your conversation, albeit it brief, try to find out what the company's challenge or problem is. (Remember, all employers have problems to solve. Perhaps you can be the remedy by being hired by that company!)<br /><strong>7. Articulate your expertise.</strong> Don't give too general information. Be specific about how you can help employers.<br /><strong>8. Ask questions to probe and reveal answers.</strong> If you're really tactical with questions, you might just find out what the company's "hidden agenda" is or forthcoming plans for hiring or for expansion, as in offering a new product or service.<br />As we career coaches will attest, good questions generate good answers. Especially "mini" ones which connect to one another.<br /><strong>9. Be flexible with the employer's plans.</strong> Perhaps there's an area you didn't consider in your realm of experience.<br /><strong>10. Follow-up with all of the contacts promptly.</strong> Many business decisions are made within three business days. "Strike when the iron is hot," especially if you've developed chemistry or even a "prime impression" with contacts at the speed networking event.<br /><br /><span style="color: #888888;"><em><strong>Melissa C. Martin is a </strong><a href="http://webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>bilingual career coach</strong></a><strong> who specializes in offering career counselling by phone.</strong></em></span></div>Download <strong>Melissa's FREE report, Turbocharge your job search</strong>: 16+ sizzling tips to be irresistible to employers fb.me/12zGsEqDD<br /><br />Follow Melissa on Twitter @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6601107219677498976?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-40583506493834016962012-01-02T19:23:00.000-05:002012-01-02T19:23:46.773-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Back in 2011, I delivered a webinar on <strong><u>careerealism.com</u></strong> on 5 tips to use Twitter for a job search.<br />1. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">Create a powerful profile</span><br /><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2. Gain&nbsp;followers in days</span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3. Whet your appetite with Twitter applications</span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4, Use hashtags to start a global conversation</span></div><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.Search strategically to land job leads and penetrate the hidden job market.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Later this month, I will be elaborating on these points at a major career conference in Ottawa, Canada.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">See more at <a href="http://www.cannexus.ca/">www.cannexus.ca</a> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">Download my FREE twitter webinar on <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">www.careerealism.com</a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Melissa Martin is a bilingual social media strategist and leader in career services. To promote her brand, Melissa has been a guest on podcasts and has facilitated online social media events. This Twitter aficionado offers coaching through her business, www.careercoachingbyphone.com</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"> </div><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4058350649383401696?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-79999503560307203272011-11-30T18:07:00.000-05:002011-11-30T18:07:33.398-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The holiday season is fast approaching. I am sharing a previous Twitter project question on careerealism.com and provided an update on the custom of demonstrating courtesy to a potential employer. Read more below.<br /><br />Dear Experts,<br /><br /><div>I interviewed at a company recently and haven’t heard back yet. The hiring manager told me he was interviewing a lot of people for this job and wouldn’t make a decision until after the first of the year. I sent a hand-written thank-you note to the hiring manager right after my interview. I feel like we had a really good connection. So, I was also thinking perhaps I should send him a holiday card, but wondered if that would be seen as trying too hard.</div><br /><div>What do you think?</div><br />Dear job seeker:<br /><br /><div>Congratulations on sending a hand-written thank you note. Most job seekers don't make the effort. If you examine the statistics of job seekers who fail to send a thank you note, it is staggering. The jury is out as to whether a handwritten note is appropriate. Some experts believe that the handwritten version has a short shelf life. If you happen to know that the hiring decision will be deferred or not immediate, why not make yourself stand out and show your personality of paper with a hand written communication. Other experts believe that in the interest of expediacy, an electronic note is acceptable.</div><br />No matter what the outcome of your immediate job search, you will have "scored points" in your application and conveyed a personal communication. In other words, you resisted the urge to be complacent in your job search and take the "tried and true" job search methods, which no longer have the same currency as five years ago.<br /><br />On the whole, I believe the gesture of sending a holiday card versus a handwritten note&nbsp;shows two things:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>you are demonstrating the desire to make a human connection</li><li>you understand the importance of follow-up, which is essential to "clinching the sale." </li></ul><br />Remember that job searching in the new millennium is all sales and marketing, in nature.<br /><br /><div>Wishing you best of luck in your endeavours.</div><br /><div>Melissa Martin</div>webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com<br />Please follow&nbsp;me&nbsp;on Facebook:&nbsp;fb.me/careercoachingbyphone.com<br />Career advisor: careeraviators.com<br /><br /><div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a>&nbsp;</div><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><div></div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-7999950356030720327?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-14207148393211572042011-11-06T20:13:00.001-05:002011-11-06T20:20:19.627-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-crbLk8OXHV0/TrcyKWn9QpI/AAAAAAAAAE0/ekZb1iS8TQ4/s1600/imagesCA28MTX1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-crbLk8OXHV0/TrcyKWn9QpI/AAAAAAAAAE0/ekZb1iS8TQ4/s1600/imagesCA28MTX1.jpg" /></a></div>MOTIVATION, THE HEART OF SELF IMPROVEMENT<br /><br />Pain may sometimes be the reason why people change. Getting low&nbsp;grades make us realize that we need to study.&nbsp;Being humiliated gives us the ‘push’ to speak up and fight for ourselves to save our face from the next embarrassments. It may be a bitter experience, a friend’s tragic story, a great movie, or an inspiring book that will help us get up and get just the right amount of motivation we need in order to improve ourselves. With the countless negativities the world brings about, how do we keep motivated? Consider these tips from&nbsp;A to Z…<br /><br />A - Achieve your dreams. Avoid negative people, things and places. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”<br />B - Believe in your self, and in what you can do.<br />C – Consider things on every angle and aspect. Motivation comes from determination. To be able to understand life, you should feel the sun from both sides.<br />D – Don’t give up and don’t give in. Thomas Edison failed once, twice, more than thrice before he came up with his invention and perfected the incandescent light bulb. Make motivation&nbsp;your steering wheel.<br />E – Enjoy. Work as if you don’t need money. Dance as if nobody’s watching. Love as if you never cried. Learn as if you’ll live forever. Motivation takes place when people are happy.<br />F – Family and Friends – are life’s greatest&nbsp; treasures. Don’t lose sight of them.<br />G – Give more than what is enough. Where does motivation and self- improvement take place at work? At home? At school? When you exert extra effort in doing things. <br />H – Hang on to your dreams. The "little" stars in your dreams may be your driving force. <br />I – Ignore those who try to destroy you. Don’t let other people to get the best of you. Resist the comopany of&nbsp;toxic people – the kind of friends who dislike hearing&nbsp;about your successes. True friends or fairweather friends, you may wonder?<br />J – Just be yourself. The key to success is to be yourself. And the key to failure is to try to please everyone.<br />K – keep trying no matter how hard life may seem. When a person is motivated, eventually he sees a harsh life finally clearing out, paving the way to self- improvement.<br />L – Learn to love your self. Now isn’t that easy?<br />M – Make things happen. Motivation is when "your dreams are put into work clothes." (Sorry, I cannot claim this phrase. I do not know its original author).<br />N – Never lie, cheat or steal. Always play a fair game.<br />O – Open your eyes. People should learn the horse attitude and horse sense. They see things in 2 ways – how they want things to be, and how they should be. <br />P – Practice makes perfect. Practice is about motivation. It lets us learn repertoire and ways to&nbsp;recover from our mistakes.<br />Q – Quitters never win. And winners never quit. So, choose your fate – are you going to be a quitter? Or a winner?<br />R – Ready yourself. Motivation is also about preparation.<br />S – Stop procrastinating.<br />T – Take control of your life. Discipline or self-control&nbsp;is symbiotic&nbsp;with motivation. Both are key factors in self- improvement.<br />U – Understand others. If you know very well how to talk, you should also learn how to listen. Yearn to understand first, and to be understood the second.<br />V – Visualize it. Motivation without vision is like a boat on a dry land.<br />W – Want it more than anything. Dreaming means believing.<br />X Factor is what will make you different from the others. When you are motivated, you tend to put on “extras” on your life like extra time for family, extra help at work, extra care for friends, and so on.<br />Y – You are unique. No one in this world looks, acts, or talks like you. Value your life and existence, because you’re just going to spend it once.<br />Z – Zero in on your dreams and go for it!!!<br /><br />Melissa Martin is a bilingual career/social media strategist. She is an approved expert on the <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">www.careerealism.com</a>, the number three ranked career site on the internet and a career advisor on <a href="http://www.careeraviators.com/">www.careeraviators.com</a><br />Follow Melissa on Twitter @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin<br />Facebook fan page: fb.me/careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1420714839321157204?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-54947330327276337222011-11-02T21:13:00.030-04:002011-11-03T07:54:01.658-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>Want to really "<strong>wow" the interviewer</strong>? <br /><br />In the job search, use&nbsp;<strong>competitive intelligence.&nbsp;</strong> The term refers to pre-information.&nbsp;&nbsp;How does this apply to job seekers? Competitive intelligence is&nbsp;valuable information that you can&nbsp;demonstrate to potential employers that you have foresight about their product, service and company. Let's suppose that you're applying for a position at a top retailer. You find yourself on an interview panel, and the inevitable question is posed by the interviewer:"WHY do you want to work for OUR company?" In your mind, you compose yourself in the heat of fire and formulate&nbsp;a response that represents competitive intelligence. <br /><br />Whether you are crafting a "sales letter," cover letter or are promoting your USP (unique sales points) during an interview, find out essential points about your desirable company or business such as:<br /><br />-competitors' distinguishing features, products and services<br />-competitors' strengths and weaknesses (For example, if you preparing for an interview,&nbsp;be a sleuth and visit the employer to&nbsp;evaluate what they're doing and not so well. This is not unlike a "mystery shopper." In military terms, it's doing a "recce," by paying a visit to the siite). If a visit is not possible, visit an employer's web site and FB fan page and then go to the competitor's web pages and see what they are lacking.<br /><br />-after doing preliminary research on the competitor, tell your desirable employer what YOU can offer and how you would improve upon what the competitor&nbsp;is&nbsp;doing<br />-present these findings briefly during an interview and then discuss what you would propose to do in the first 90 days of your hire (Peggy McKee refers to this as the "30/60/90 day" sales technique). Use your competitive intelligence information to apply the ABC (always be closing) tactic to get you hired.<br /><br />If you take this approach, employers will take you seriously as a candidate. Even better, you will hold enough sway for employers to evaluate you or advance to the second round of interviews.<br /><br />Use competitive intelligence to your advantage and slay your competitors!<br /><br />This is just one of my tips in my free report: Turbo charge your job search: 16 tips to irresistible to employers and promote your brand. I would like you to have a FREE copy on this site. <br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How do find a job using social media<br />Facebook fan page: fb.me/careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5494733032727633722?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-83777780256477237812011-11-02T20:20:00.000-04:002011-11-02T20:20:51.981-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--L4KyxF6NpI/TWr7b0KNo_I/AAAAAAAAADA/X-5MW3hu4ZE/s1600/imagesCA594WFC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" l6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--L4KyxF6NpI/TWr7b0KNo_I/AAAAAAAAADA/X-5MW3hu4ZE/s1600/imagesCA594WFC.jpg" /></a></div>Hello job seekers:<br />Never lose your focus during your job search. No matter how tough things are, here are 10 tips to share with you:<br /><br />1. Practise self-care. This is SO vital. Job searching can drain your energy unless you take preventative measures to stop it. Plan time for exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep and supportive relations with friends, family and yes, pets!<br /><br />2. Don`t take rejections too hard. Rejections, no responses, etc are part of&nbsp; job searching. It really is a numbers game. Rejections do bring you&nbsp;closer to a positive outcome. <br /><br />3. Get a copy of your performance evaluations from your last position (aka PER`s in military jargon). Embed your performance evaluations INTO your résumé. If nothing else, the evaluations will set you apart from other job seekers and serve as a conversation piece with an employer during an interview.<br />(An effective résumé should elicit good questions from an employer).<br /><br />4. Get recommendations from former supervisors, colleagues, character references, etc. Use LinkedIn recommendations to maintain your social media profiles. Facebook also has a recommendation application called Branchout.com. Use it to your advantage. Another Facebook application that will promote your good name and brand is <a href="http://www.beknown.com/">www.Beknown.com</a><br /><br />5. Get support for all of your job searching efforts. Support includes the emotional, social and familial components of conducting a useful job search. Join a job finding club or join an online job finding club such as&nbsp; <a href="http://www.careerealismclub.com/">http://www.careerealismclub.com</a><br /><br />6. If you were laid off, allow yourself to grieve. Losing a job is synonymous with losing one`s identity, especially in North America.&nbsp; (J.T. Donnell referred to this in a webinar on thise site previously). Check out my article on <u><strong>How to deal with the signs of a layoff</strong></u> on THIS BLOG). The article has also been posted on <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">www.careerealism.com</a><br /><br />7. Instead of acting like a `wounded job seeker, transform yourself into a solution builder.&nbsp; Research desirable companies and come up with ways to improve their bottom line or appeal to their one track minds: can you save or make money for the company? <br /><br />8. If your job search is stalled, apply the Zen approach. Do NOTHING. But only for a short while. Re-energize and then get your focus again.<br /><br />9. No matter what your job search results are, maintain a professional demeamour through your personal brand. Make sure your brand is professional and consistent with how you want to be portrayed by potential employers.<br /><br />10.&nbsp;Keep track of your milestones, whether major or minor. In all likelihood, you will be rewarded. Ensure that these milestones are reflected in&nbsp;your job searching marketing documents, such as a résumé.<br />Need help with staying focused in your job search? If you want to&nbsp;learn social media job searching strategies that work, please contact me.<br />blog: webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com<br />Facebook fan page: fb.me/careercoachingbyphone.com<br />Twitter: @raving redhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-8377778025647723781?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-91169537130800634852011-10-27T11:38:00.005-04:002011-10-27T11:47:51.552-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>Greetings job seekers, it's no secret that job searching can be a debilitating activity that can zap your energy and morale. Faced with the constant unknown and repeated objection, even the most optimistic person can struggle with the injustices of the hiring process in a troubled economy.<br /><br />Let's make your day and start you back on a more encouraging path. Positive thinking is the subject of today's post.<br /><br />I'm sure you have a bright idea hidden somewhere in the back of your mind that you just can't wait to test. Of course you're not the only one with the bright idea. So what motivates you to churn those creative, or even inspiring juices to its utmost flavour?<br /><br />It's always best to set up a personal goal where you can accomplish the most in record time, maybe making five new contacts on Linkedin or Twitter.&nbsp; I like what Linkedin trainer <strong>Greig Wells</strong> of <a href="http://www.befoundjobs.com/">www.befoundjobs.com</a> says about goals: "Goals must be things that you can control 100 percent." So true. Unless your goals are realistic and achievable, nothing else matters.<br /><br />Here are some tips to make it through the week even, if you're just biding time.<br />Having a bit of positive thinking can help you realize things that are never thought possible. Thinking big is indeed the North American way and that's what makes us rich and prosperous.<br /><br />1. <strong>Take passionate action towards living your life by design</strong>. Talk is cheap. Action = deposits in the bank of a passionately authentic future. Without the activity of creating an authentic future,&nbsp; passion is void.<br /><br />This is a perfect example where dreams are made when&nbsp; you start by tinkering with your mind, then with your hands. And if the idea weakens, you can always go back to it later until you finish it.<br /><br />2. <strong>Commit to yourself, as well as those you love, to create powerful life you can love</strong>. Instead of reacting, commit to creating from your heart and soul, out of love rather than fear. Dramas will always be there, but a dream will still be a dream without motion. Be amazed as the transformation begins.<br /><br />3.<strong> Recognize and embrace the thought that each moment is perfect regardless of its outcome</strong>. Every time you hit on something that may appear too extreme, why not give it a shot and see if it will work. You will be surprised to see of there are other ways to get the task done in time. If you are not pleased with the outcome, decide to use that moment to learn from and make the appropriate shift. <br /><br />4. <strong>Dwell completely in a place of gratitude</strong>. Learn to utilize what you have in your hands and make use of it in the most constructive way. Slipping into neediness will become less of a habit when you repeatedly shift towards gratitude, away from poverty consciousness.<br /><br />5. <strong>Use a Passion Formula of Recognize/Reevaluate/Restore</strong> in place of the Shoulda/Woulda/Coulda whirlwind. The former is based on increased knowledge and abundance;&nbsp; the latter focuses on scarcity. While&nbsp;you face people or tasks that may seem harder than scaling the summit of the Himalayas, allow yourself to realize that the task is&nbsp;of prime importance.<br /><br />6. <strong>Keep humour at the forefront of thought- laugh at and with yourself</strong> when possible. You may find yourself quite entertaining when you loosen up! I have yet to see a comedian ever go hungry even though his jokes are outdated.&nbsp; Life has so much to offer to allow you to mope around in self-pity. Humur is very attractive, very passionate and&nbsp;life-giving. <br /><br />7. <strong>Believe that you are the architect of your destiny</strong>. No one can take your passionate future from you except&nbsp; you! Create your life authentically. As long as there's still breath in your body, there is no end to how much you can accomplish in a lifetime. The concept of thinking big is all about enjoying your work, which would lead to celebrate a discovery that is born within your hands. Watch everything flow into place with perfect, passionate precision. <br /><br />The moral in this lesson?&nbsp; Instead of wallowing in&nbsp;negativity,&nbsp;choose your path of developing a positive attitude. If you are a job seeker, keep in mind that unemployment is temporary.<br /><br />Please follow me on Twitter:<br />@ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br />Facebook fan page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/careercoachingbyphone.com">www.facebook.com/pages/careercoachingbyphone.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.careeraviators.com/">www.careeraviators.com</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-9116953713080063485?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-21338139772242201242011-10-24T16:28:00.002-04:002011-10-26T10:25:03.455-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lnSZM-L6C8/TqXLVUlKNqI/AAAAAAAAAEs/kQMwJSkTMsU/s1600/imagesCAZ5YG8O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lnSZM-L6C8/TqXLVUlKNqI/AAAAAAAAAEs/kQMwJSkTMsU/s1600/imagesCAZ5YG8O.jpg" /></a></div>Some people believe that great leaders are made, not born. Yes, it may be true that some people are born with natural talents. However, without practice, without drive, without enthusiasm, and without experience, there can be no true development in leadership. Remember that&nbsp;effective&nbsp;leaders are continually working and studying to improve their natural skills. This takes a commitment to constantly improve in whatever endeavour a person chooses.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">First of all, let's define leadership. To be a leader, one must be able to influence others to accomplish a goal, or an objective. He contributes to the organization and cohesion of a group.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Contrary to what most people believe, leadership is not about power.&nbsp;It is about encouraging others towards the goal of the organization. It is putting everyone on the same page and helping them see the big picture. Therefore, you&nbsp;must be a leader not a boss.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">First of all, you have to get people to follow you. How is this accomplished?</div><div style="text-align: left;">People follow others when they see a clear sense of purpose. People will only follow you if they see that you know where you are going. Remember that bumper sticker? The one that says, don't follow me, I'm lost too? The same holds true for leadership. If you yourself do not know where you're headed to, chances are people will not follow you at all. On <strong>Twitter</strong> for example, write something thought provoking or meaningful that translates into value for others.&nbsp; Conversely, when interacting with others on <strong>Facebook </strong>and you wish to make a commentary about the vagaries of a long job search, curry others' favour by asking others about their own experiences and then providing a solution.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Being a leader is not about what you make others do. It's about who you are, what you know, and what you do. Let's say that you are networking on <strong>Linkedin </strong>and researching potential companies. You discover that a particular company has a void in a particular area. You as the solution builder, as opposed to the job seeker, have an opportunity to propose your ideas to a potential company, not unlike a consultant making a proposal.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;">Trust and confidence is built on good relationships, trustworthiness, and high ethics.</div><div style="text-align: left;">The way you deal with your people, and the relationships you build will lay the foundation for the strength of your message. The stronger your onnline relationships, the stronger others will gain&nbsp;trust and confidence is in your capabilities.Once you have their trust and confidence, you may now proceed to communicate the goals and objectives you are to undertake. <br />Keep in mind that if you do what you always did, you'll get what you always got!</div><div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;">Communication is a very important key to good leadership. Without this you can not be a good leader. The knowledge and technical expertise you have must be clearly imparted to other people. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Also, you cannot be a good leader&nbsp;unless you have good judgment. You must be able to assess situations, weigh the pros and cons of any decision, and actively seek out a solution. It is this judgment that others will see through your online communications.&nbsp;Therefore, good decision-making about what to post online is vital to your&nbsp;digital success.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So, do you have the drive and the desire to be a social media leader?&nbsp;Do you have the desire to influence others in the social media arena?&nbsp; Then start now. Write influential posts that add value. Take a stand on issues, even if your opinions don't initially&nbsp;garner favour. Many trends&nbsp;were begun by incremental steps.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We know that social media allows the power vested in others to affect society's social consciousness. Witness the toppled regimes in the Middle East or the recent Occupy Wall street demonstrations.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Be a social media leader with a defined sense of commentary on the collective imagination. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2133813977224220124?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-58023995719370010482011-10-18T18:17:00.000-04:002011-10-18T18:17:42.126-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>Greetings job seekers, Emma Taylor is our guest post on my blog today.<br /><br />12 Crucial Factors to Career Satisfaction<br /><br /><br />Education expands one's career opportunities and skill set but isn't exactly a guarantor of contentment or success. While degrees open doors, they don't necessarily mean a particular position — or even path — will ultimately prove the most viable, comfortable fit. Some pretty basic factors need meeting before true happiness settles in. Basic factors requiring give and take on the part of employee, employers, and even consumers must take place for a positive career situation, and we'll take a look at the 12 most important here.<br /><br />1.<strong> Low stress</strong><br /><br />Many people enjoy touting how much they thrive under pressure, and most of them probably do. But that momentum, often propelled by youthful vigor, almost always stalls and sputters eventually. And once it does, the stress really starts ravaging one's health. A truly satisfying, sustainable career is a career lessening the risk of heart disease, obesity, depression and other not-so-enjoyable medical conditions. Which, in turn, also saves a right fair amount of money.<br /><br />2. <strong>Positive work environment</strong><br /><br />Despite laws protecting against workplace harassment, the issue annoyingly persists year after year. Negative environments, traditional office settings or not, compromise career satisfaction for obvious reasons. Most workers don't enjoy feeling unsafe or dehumanized day after day after day after day after you get the idea. And if the problem trickles down from higher up in the hierarchy, filing reports only renders the situation even more desperate. Even genuinely rewarding, enjoyable responsibilities lose spark when surroundings get off on humiliation and degradation.<br /><br />3. <strong>Productivity</strong><br /><br />Save for the most ardent slackers, most workers like feeling as if they've accomplished something, even if they still have a ways to go before finishing a project. Productivity increases positivity, and while positivity doesn't cure mental health issues, it is a nice, supplementary self-respect boost. And those who love their careers but hate their companies have something to flaunt once resumes get sent out.<br /><br />4. <strong>Fair wages</strong><br /><br />Greed isn't good, but everyone must meet their basic needs, hopefully with a little cushion leftover for savings and bit of fun. A fair salary (and benefits, if applicable) should be a basic human right, although one rarely met when one considers global economics. Nobody who works tirelessly to support him- or herself (maybe even a family or loved one) should have to worry about food, shelter and nourishment. Gratifying careers cannot sit on a foundation of hand-wringing over necessities.<br /><br />5. <strong>Safety and security</strong><br /><br />Everyone's risk-taking comfort levels vary, of course, but even (especially!) Hollywood stuntpeople and deep sea welders deserve the utmost safety standards. All employers must ensure their staff should never show up to work afraid their number may be up today. In fact, it really should stand as the utmost priority, with no expense spared. Most adrenaline junkies and seemingly fearless individuals still want some degree of security while doing their jobs.<br /><br />6. <strong>Stimulation</strong><br /><br />The majority of workers, from the most isolationist to the resident social butterfly, still need something piquing their senses and intellects. Stimulation doesn't have to be interpersonal: satisfying careers keep both bodies and brains happy in multiple ways. Individual workers should seek out jobs preventing slippage, while companies themselves might want to consider initiating activities promoting better mental flow.<br /><br />7. <strong>Inclusion</strong><br /><br />People like being asked for their input and ideas, even if what they have to say doesn't necessarily come to pass. Satisfying careers make sure to include everyone wanting to be a part of things, and while it's impossible to implement everything, just taking time to listen often proves enough. Managers and executives should especially exert the effort. Feeling valued bolsters motivation and productivity, so dehumanizing workers won't get a company terribly far.<br /><br /><br />8. <strong>Health</strong><br /><br />Like safety, health also significantly factors into overall career contentment. Even beyond stress-related medical conditions, workers might fall victim to inadequately-ventilated or moldy buildings, food- and water-borne illnesses in company commissaries and other hazards. Although no solution for 100% prevention exists — and never will — businesses should still consider healthy, safe and secure customers and employees their utmost concern.<br /><br /><br />9. <strong>The job doesn't take over everything</strong><br /><br />All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. All work and no play make Jack … something something … Go crazy?! DON'T MIND IF I DO!!!<br /><br />10. <strong>Room for growth</strong><br /><br />If businesses and career paths hope to grow, there's no way they'll sustain success if they don't allow the individuals involved to do so as well. Few people stay the same as they age, and most improve their valuable job skills over time. It makes perfect sense that they want their positions to accommodate their promise and abilities rather than shoving them into a rigid, restrictive box.<br /><br /><br />11. <strong>Honesty</strong><br /><br />It is the best policy, after all. A career path littered with liars, cheaters and other underhanded folks is really only gratifying to liars, cheats and other underhanded folk. All of whom must constantly look over their back and worry about whether or not their cockiness will finally signify their downfall. Really, staying honest with everyone just makes life that much easier. Just don't forget to pair it up with…<br /><br /><br />12. <strong>Respect</strong><br /><br />No matter one's career path, earning respect from coworkers, higher ups and customers (if applicable) renders even the most groan-inducing tasks at least a shred bearable. "Earning," of course, is the operative word here. But few things conjure up more dehumanizing emotions than genuinely caring for others' needs and receiving nothing — or, even worse, outright degradation — in kind. Retail, education and service jobs often needlessly inspire shoddy treatment, hence many individuals' reluctance to even bother with them.<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="about:blank"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16px" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83px" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5802399571937001048?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-82096800579948525852011-09-04T13:38:00.000-04:002011-09-04T13:38:08.833-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egNw44zR1-M/TV3eiJhL26I/AAAAAAAAACg/Xr6pHEaZM7M/s1600/careeralism.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egNw44zR1-M/TV3eiJhL26I/AAAAAAAAACg/Xr6pHEaZM7M/s1600/careeralism.png" /></a></div><br />This question originated from my posting on <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">http://www.careerealism.com/</a>:<br />T.A.P. Q#477 – Should I Use LinkedIn Recommendations on My Resume?<br /><br />Dear Experts,<br />I thought of breaking up sections of my resume with brief quotes from LinkedIn recommendations. Is that corny?<br /><br />Dear job seeker: Absolutely include them! And it is definitely not a corny idea, but a savvy one! Employers hire based on the 3 R's: referrals, reputation and <b>recommendations.&nbsp; </b><br /><br />By including <b>LinkedIn</b> recommendations, you are demonstrating many things to hiring managers and decision makers, who just happen to congregate on LinkedIn!&nbsp; <br />1. You exemplify that you are staying current with technology by using social media<br />2. You show self-confidence by displaying your recommendations on LinkedIn, which cannot be fabricated and must be sent by the person giving your recommendation, unlike trying to falsify résumé information.<br />3. Showing off your Linkedin recommendations on your resume becomes a "living resume," on the internet, as opposed to a paper resume<br />4. Your LI recommendations are more likely to hold more sway than a&nbsp; regular, written or verbal recommendation, because the employer can see that you have (presumably by joining Linkedin) a well-developed network of contacts in your industry. It can be the icing on the cake or "closing the sale" about you (see the 1st paragraph). <br /><br />5. As of 2011, you can get endorsements by linking your Facebook with Linkedin. The app is called <b>branchout.com</b>&nbsp; View <b>my profile</b> at apps.facebook.com-branchout-dash<br /><br />If you are still in a quandry about who to ask for a recommendation, use your existing fans, colleagues or allies. Some examples may include: supervisors, a colleague with whom you worked, a college or university professor or a former boss. Make sure your recommendations are current and provide specific feedback about your skills, knowledge and abilities.<br /><br />If you are a job seeker, and you wish to explore recommendations about an <u>employe</u>r, go to <b>www.glassdoor.com</b>. This site gives you access to anonymous reviews about other others' employers or salary information. <br /><br />Develop your brand and align that brand with recommendations that carry influence in your career or job search.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, <b>How to use social media in your job search</b><br /><b><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a></b><br />Follow me on Twitter @ravingredhead&nbsp; and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br />or on my Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"> </script> <br /><br /><br /><br /></div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-8209680057994852585?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-5911543917256265092011-08-31T20:23:00.000-04:002011-08-31T20:23:46.009-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7911105226596103442&amp;postID=591154391725626509"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0pt none;" width="83" />&nbsp;</a><br /><br />&nbsp;In my last post, I encouraged job seekers to use Linkedin recommendations to supercharge their job search and maximize their profile exposure. The first recommendation to request a recommendation, would be to choose someone you respect or admire, ideally in your designated field.<br /><br />A supplementary way of using a recommendation to make your profile more visible and more appealing to potential employers is the BranchOut application, (www.BranchOut.com). One job seeker recently beat the odds by using BranchOut, and not only landed a job, but received a 45% salary increase. (To read the post about this job seeker's success, go to <b>tinyurl.com3v54558</b>).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><img alt="" 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" /></div><div>Remember, you'll always get the same results if you always do things the same way. Stand apart from the competition. Get noticed. Trump up your job search efforts. Best of luck!<br /><br /><br />&nbsp;Melissa Martin<br />Bilingual social media/career strategist<br />www.careercoachingbyphone.com<br />Author, How to find a job using social media <br /><br /></div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b><br /></b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-591154391725626509?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-62613568972315422182011-08-24T18:55:00.003-04:002011-08-30T20:32:29.639-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-404EIt7HXp4/TWMGC8xpcII/AAAAAAAAACw/LKsh9SCLWQU/s1600/eq-timecover1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-404EIt7HXp4/TWMGC8xpcII/AAAAAAAAACw/LKsh9SCLWQU/s320/eq-timecover1.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><br />Western society, particularly North America, has trumpeted the merits of academic intelligence. But only in the last couple of decades, has <b>emotional intelligence </b>been highlighted. The above image shows a prominent story about EI in a major American news magazine. Last week, a Canadian newspaper, The Globe and Mail, printed a brief story with the headline, " emotional smarts sway hiring choices."&nbsp; Globe writer Wallace Immen referred to a careerbuilder.com study of 2, 660 managers. Among the findings, 34% of managers set they would make EI a priority for considering job candidates. More significantly, 71% said that emotional intelligence trumps mental intelligence in relation to hiring decisions.<br /><br />What defines intelligence, in the first place? Book smart? Academic smart? In North America, we laud cognitive abilities and people endowed with the so-called "intelligence quotient " or "IQ." &nbsp;As a certified English/French educator, let me qualify. Better yet, let me qualify as a bilingual career strategist.<br /><br /><b><u>A high IQ does not represent intelligence</u></b>. We must credit Howard Gardiner back in the sixties for highlighting multiple intelligences. (And we can add one to the contemporary vernacular, spiritual intelligence, in the dawn of our 911 world). IQ is finite. It ends at around 21 years of age. <b>Emotional intelligenc</b>e, whose five domains include a SMART component, are not to be confused with SMART goal setting). The domains are self-awareness, managing negative emotions, attitude of optimism, reading others' emotions and teaming up with others to achieve results. All of these domains are relevant to the workplace. <br /><br /><b>Emotional intelligence</b> was coined by two psychologists from Yale University. The book, <u>Emotional Intelligence</u>, followed five years later with Daniel Goleman's best seller on the <b>New York Times</b><u><b>&nbsp;</b></u>list. As of 2008, there were over 200 documented stuides about the effectiveness and importance of emotional intelligence (source: Marcia Bench).<br /><br />Unlike IQ,&nbsp;an &nbsp;<b>EQ (emotional quotient)</b>, can be developed into one's fifties. Studies have shown consistently that having high EQ is twice as important in achieving success in our personal and professional relationships. In fact, <b>70% of job postings feature EQ</b>. Or if you apply EQ or EI to interviewing, the job candidate is often judged and scored based on&nbsp;his/her social skills, rather than purely on technical or technological skills.<br /><br />How does EI relate to propelling your <b>job search </b>or <b>advancing your career</b>? Employers, in pursuit of star performers and savvy job candidates, are also in hot pursuit of one who is endowed with emotional intelligence on the job. They are more likely to blend with the group dynamic at work and enjoy harmonious relationships. In other words, having high IQ and technical skills is insufficient for measuring one's social savvy on the job. All the more reason why behavioural interviews are standard practice for hiring, because the questions deal with one's past behaviour (including EQ competencies such as problem solving, stress tolerance, impulse control and optimism).<br /><br />What are the consequences of having "low EQ" or "low EI?" On the world stage, we've seen significant examples of authority figures and power brokers have not manifested the self-awareness that they had to concede power to others. The result has been uprising in the middle East. On a sectarian note, we have seen celebrity figures whose <i>hubris </i>has overriden their "IQ" and resulted in negative public behaviour. (You choose the appropriate celebrity). In the pages of history, the most extreme cases of low EQ have infamy as their legend, for example, Hitler, Stalin, Sadam Hossein and Mussolini, to name a few. In the latter cases, extreme emotions that were not tempered led to horrific acts.<br /><br />I hold fond memories of teaching emotional intelligence at two Canadian military bases. In fact, both the American and Canadian military use <b>emotional intelligence</b> as part of the recruitment and selection process.&nbsp;One example involved the American air force, which reduced recruiters' turnovers and saved millions in hiring.<br /><br />To be effective contributors in society, we all need EI. To be more impressive job candidates, we need to demonstrate EI in the recruitment and hiring processes.<br /><br />Want to find out more?&nbsp;Contact me at <a href="mailto:mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com">mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com</a><br />Action step: how are you going to improve your EI at work or in your job search?<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media strategist<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Follow me on Twitter: @ravingredhead &nbsp; or @melissacmartin (bilingual) <br />Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphone</div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6261356897231542218?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-74512760525549238332011-06-23T19:20:00.001-04:002011-06-23T19:25:17.180-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tgZiUVwUi3c/TgPLVrZvCHI/AAAAAAAAAEU/0oM0-8txXEE/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tgZiUVwUi3c/TgPLVrZvCHI/AAAAAAAAAEU/0oM0-8txXEE/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>&nbsp;Laura James of <a href="http://www.insidejobs.com/">www.insidejobs.com</a>&nbsp;contacted me to network and connect. Welcome Laura to this blog! This is a timely request, since Laura concentrates her article on&nbsp;other another form of connecting, informational interviews. In the grand scheme of things, informational interviews have many purposes, but two quick ones are to get focused in a career or gain valuable insight. Read Laura's insights right here!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">Informational interviews are awesome networking tools, but they can be hard to get and time consuming. Plus, they can be awkward…it's not comfortable to reach out to strangers. <strong>Social media</strong> is changing that. In the business world, like in many other areas, <strong>social media</strong> is breaking down barriers, and <strong>changing social dynamics</strong> to permit more casual relationships with people you don’t know.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">&nbsp;Seize this change, and use it to your advantage by intertwining your job search with your general career exploration— it will advance both your immediate job search and your long-term happiness. To explain why, following are a list of reasons why looking inward can help you succeed outwardly. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">&nbsp;1. <strong>Your job search today needs to be focuse</strong>d—find a field you like, then dig deep. For while it’s good to have an open mind, not focusing on a particular area keeps you searching at the surface level of many industries. This means that you’re looking at only the most visible opportunities, and thus competing with the maximum amount of other job seekers.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">&nbsp;2. <strong>Gaining this clarity of career focus takes some introspective work</strong>. Figure out what your career goals are: What are your <u>valued skills</u>? What do you <u>like doing</u>? What possibilities does a field offer you, and do your future options look attractive? Putting in legwork upfront to figure out your career preferences helps solidify your focus in a field, stops you from second-guessing your search, and gives you talking points to discuss with future employers. Websites like <a href="http://www.insidejobs.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0068cf;">Inside Jobs</span></a> and <a href="http://www.onetonline.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0068cf;">O*net Online</span></a> are good starting points to figure out what opportunities exist out there for you.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">&nbsp;3. <strong>Once you have your career focus, look to explore it further through informational interviews</strong>. This is where job search and career exploration meet together in a lovely marriage. Informational interviews give you incredible insight into fields, while doubling as invaluable networking opportunities. They allow you to chat with people in the jobs you want, simultaneously feeling out if you will like a job, and connecting you with people who can pass along your name to potential employers. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">&nbsp;4. <strong>Don’t simply schedule coffee dates with vague acquaintances, however—get online</strong>! Put your research to work, and start reaching out to people in your desired fields. Be it Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, or other social media sites, there are waves of people actively engaging in online conversations…you just need to join in. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">&nbsp;5. This is where you <strong>put your research to work</strong>: You are focused, driven, have goals and are looking for help to attain them. Helping someone help themselves is a huge call to action. So don’t play a damsel in distress: Instead, chat with people to attain new perspectives on your career path, and see if they can help you figure out how to attain your goals. This is what you do in a traditional informational interview, but enacting this process through social media is a more efficient, casual, and less connection-driven process. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 14pt;">&nbsp;Networking through information interviews is a great job search technique. But you need to take responsibility and shoulder the process if you’re going to be successful. With a little bit legwork and determination on your end, you can locate the field you want, and find the backdoors in—the ones that all the other job seekers out there are currently missing.</div><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-7451276052554923833?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-46371239071146821542011-05-24T21:18:00.005-04:002011-06-13T21:10:10.649-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>Hi readers,<br />Thanks for all the comments on recent blog posts. I was particularly intrigued by James Mills' participation in <a href="http://www.twitterblender.ca/">www.twitterblender.ca</a>&nbsp;He has created a BRAND of sorts, and that's what prompted this blog post.<br /><br />Today's post is devoted to creating a <strong>brand</strong> simply.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NV5t3zf8aOE/TdxYxYyh96I/AAAAAAAAAEM/yV03Rv9bHnA/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NV5t3zf8aOE/TdxYxYyh96I/AAAAAAAAAEM/yV03Rv9bHnA/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div><br />Everyday we are bombarded with images of brands, professional, personal and otherwise. In today's media savvy world, brands can crumble as quickly as they are established. So how do you stand out in sea of <em>soi-disant</em> brands, competing for everyone's attention?&nbsp; <br /><br />On NBC's today show (<a href="http://www.today.com/">www.today.com</a>)&nbsp; I viewed a segment featuring Martin Lindstrum, author of the book <u>Buyology and Brand Sense.</u><strong>&nbsp; </strong>Our intent in building a brand, is to showcase our uniqueness. However, before we can even begin to communicate that, Martin explained that brands are meant to create trust and relationships. This is a moot point, because we engage in social media to be social first and use the medium second.&nbsp; How do allow our brand to create trust?&nbsp; Martin suggests the following:<br /><br />1.<strong> Define who you are and who you aren't</strong>. Whether your reputation or personality is fun, cool or just&nbsp;reliable enough to deliver the goods on time, become known for ONE thing. <em>Point final</em>, as the French say. Don't let your reputation be confused with many things at once. That's why brands have a tag line or trademark. (I'm sure you can name three in a jiffy!) <br /><br />2. <strong>Create an air of mystery</strong>. Before reading about twitterblender.ca, at the beginning of the post. I sourced the article's origin. The blogger, <strong>Antonia Harler</strong>,&nbsp; branded herself as "sassy." That can be memorable in itself!<br /><br />3. <strong>Create a signature look </strong>in your brand. Martin referred to unique looks such as black; suspenders; funky socks;&nbsp;or even jewellery. (Think of <strong>Lady Gaga</strong> who commands the&nbsp;top lists of Twitter followers).<br /><br />4. <strong>Leave a personal mark behind</strong>. Whether you are courting new business or landing a valuable lead in your job search, create a business card that stands out or perhaps gives advice. I like the application businesscard2.com Check out my profile at <a href="http://melissamartin.businesscard2.com/">http://melissamartin.businesscard2.com</a>&nbsp;To be noticed, I suggest&nbsp;other&nbsp;cool applications, such as&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sitesketch.com/">www.sitesketch.com</a> or neat Twitter backgrounds on <a href="http://www.socialidentities.com/">www.socialidentities.com</a><br /><br />In the final analysis, what is <strong>one thing</strong> that people should remember about <strong>you</strong>?<br /><br />If you need to know about branding resources, here's what I recommend:<br /><br />Branding experts for business: <strong>Annemarie Cross</strong> from Australia. Her site is annemariecoach.com<br />Annemarie and I connected about two years ago via social media, and since then, I was proud to be a guest on her podcasts with <strong>Keith Keller (</strong>the Twitter king, also in Australia) and through their collective site, careercommuniqueradio.com. Annemarie's niche is helping entrepreneurs identify their <strong>brand</strong>. Keith, specializes in helping businesses promote their brand on twitterintensive.com<br /><br /><strong>Dan Schwabel</strong>, a giant in branding, is a force to be reckoned with. If you do a Google search on Dan, he commands rankings as a Personal branding expert, speaker and bestselling author.<br /><br />And finally, the <em>ne plus ultra&nbsp; </em>site on personal branding is <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">www.careerealism.com</a> I am proud to be affiliated with that site, which is now in the top 3 career site rankings on the Internet. (And no, I do not receive a commission for mentioning the site. I am simply proud to be associated with all of these experts, all of whom connected with me via social media!)<br /><br />Need a way for <u>your brand</u> to stand out? I design customized Facebook fan pages for small businesses and job seekers.<br /><br />Please follow me on <strong>Facebook</strong>: melissacynthiamartin&nbsp; and on <strong>Twitte</strong>r @melissacmartin and @ravingredhead<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media strategist<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">www.careercoachingbyphone.com</a><br /><br /><strong>Catch my webinar, Twitter: tap into the high-powered job search tool on YouTube:</strong><br /><a href="http://you.tube/vwhlk-JrOLO"><strong>http://you.tube/vwhlk-JrOLO</strong></a><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4637123907114682154?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-41307452502578179142011-05-15T12:43:00.000-04:002011-05-15T12:43:37.347-04:00<div><div id="head"></div><!-- END #head --><div class="wrap clearfix"><div id="right"><div class="post" id="1372"><h2><a href="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/"><span style="color: #0e839f;">15 Female Journalists Who’ve Paved the Way</span></a></h2>Erin Lenderts, <a href="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/">www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com</a><br /><br /><div class="bookmarkify"><a href="" name="bookmarkify"></a><div class="linkbuttons"><a href="http://del.icio.us/post?url=http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/&amp;title=15 Female Journalists Who’ve Paved the Way" rel="nofollow" title="Save to del.icio.us"><span style="color: #0e839f;"><img alt="[del.icio.us] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/delicious.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></span></a> <a href="http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&amp;url=http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/&amp;title=15 Female Journalists Who’ve Paved the Way" rel="nofollow" title="Digg It!"><img alt="[Digg] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/digg.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/" rel="nofollow" title="Save to Facebook"><img alt="[Facebook] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/facebook.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.mixx.com/submit?page_url=http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/" rel="nofollow" title="Save to Mixx"><img alt="[Mixx] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/mixx.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://reddit.com/submit?url=http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/&amp;title=15 Female Journalists Who’ve Paved the Way" rel="nofollow" title="Reddit"><img alt="[Reddit] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/reddit.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.stumbleupon.com/submit?url=http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/&amp;title=15 Female Journalists Who’ve Paved the Way" rel="nofollow" title="Stumble It!"><img alt="[StumbleUpon] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/stumbleupon.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://twitter.com/home/?status=15 Female Journalists Who’ve Paved the Way+http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/" rel="nofollow" title="Save to Twitter"><img alt="[Twitter] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/twitter.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/a/emailFlare?itemTitle=15 Female Journalists Who’ve Paved the Way&amp;uri=http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/blog/2011/15-female-journalists-whove-paved-the-way/&amp;loc=en_US" rel="nofollow" title="Email this to a friend"><img alt="[Email] " src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/email.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> </div></div><br /><div class="entry"><img align="right" alt="" height="323" hspace="30" src="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/journ.jpg" vspace="10" width="230" />Like a lamentable amount of professions before (and even some after), for the longest time "Western" journalism only covered the perspectives of white men. But as society progressed, the field slowly opened itself up to women, minorities — and even minority women. While some catching up still needs doing to sweep away the last vestiges of inequality, one must always pause to acknowledge the contributions of those coming before. Far more than 15 females sent boulders flying through the glass ceiling, so take no offense at inclusions or exclusions. Consider it a very quick, very loose primer on some extraordinary contributors to the journalism sphere, allowing future generations amazing personal, professional and <a href="http://www.onlineclasses.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">educational</span></a> opportunities.<br /><ol><li><b><a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/world/peopleevents/pande01.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Nellie Bly</span></a>:</b> Elizabeth Jane Cochran, better known as Nellie Bly, famously endured one of the most courageous, brutal acts of undercover journalism ever. <i>Ten Days in a Mad-House</i> chronicled the squalid, abusive plight of the mentally ill interred in asylums — atrocities she witnessed firsthand after faking instability and landing in the women's facilities on Blackwell's Island. After publishing her discoveries in 1887, the United States government launched a formal investigation and subsequently called for significant mental healthcare reform. Even beyond that, Bly also reached out to other charitable and social causes, traveling the world and reporting back the politics and culture of all the peoples encountered.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.whnpa.org/about/carpenter.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Marion Carpenter</span></a>:</b> Thanks to this photojournalist's passion and drive, one of the industry's glass ceilings received a nice little breaking. After launching her career with <i>Washington Times-Herald</i> in 1944, she joined International News Photo and worked on special assignments involving federal politicians. But her biggest contribution to women in journalism came when she became the first female member of the White House News Photographers Association. This honor bought Carpenter daily interaction with President Harry S. Truman, with whom she also traveled, and resulted in some famous portraits.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/07/06/eveningnews/bios/main1781520.shtml" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Katie Couric</span></a>:</b> Broadcast journalist Katie Couric, known for her work with NBC and CBS, paved the way for others in her field when she became the first woman to solo anchor a weekday evening newscast. She began her stint with <i>CBS Evening News</i> in 2006, continuing to participate in specials on a wide variety of subjects. But today's audiences know Couric for her political commentary and interviews with everyone from Sarah Palin to Shakira, though the majority of her more memorable ones involve current and former heads of state. And, of course, the 15 years she spent co-anchoring <i>The Today Show</i> with Tom Brokaw.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.heartandsoul.com/2010/04/evelyn-cunningham-a-witness-to-history/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Evelyn Cunningham</span></a>:</b> <i>Pittsburgh Courier</i> played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, with Evelyn Cunningham's sterling, fearless efforts front and center. As both a correspondent and, later, the editor, she tackled social injustices — most especially lynching — the mainstream media never bothered touching. Cunningham also enjoyed the honor of profiling Civil Rights leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X. Her absolutely amazing accomplishments, which also stretched into a radio career, earned her prestigious positions on several human rights organizations and even a special assistant gig with Nelson Rockefeller.</li><li><b><a href="http://library.apsu.edu/Dix/dix.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Dorothy Dix</span></a>:</b> Love them, hate them or indifferent them, advice columns eventually became a permanent element of newspaper and magazine journalism. Elizabeth Meriwether Gilmer worked under the pseudonym Dorothy Dix and reached an audience of around 60 million in her prime. <i>Dorothy Dix Talks</i> began life in 1896, publishing marriage and homemaking advice on the pages of New Orleans periodical <i>Daily Picayune</i>. After <i>Public Ledger Syndicate</i> picked it up in 1923, her readership expanded to 273 papers around the world, earning her a swath of dedicated fans and a few book deals — not to mention the honor of being the most widely-read female journalist during the era.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.biography.com/articles/Betty-Friedan-9302633" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Betty Friedan</span></a>:</b> Betty Friedan's journalism background revolutionized women's rights from both a rhetorical and professional standpoint. 1963's <i>The Feminine Mystique</i> helped kick off Second Wave Feminism thanks to her painstaking investigative research delving deeply into the disturbing psychological realities of American housewives. Friedan herself had been previously fired from her journalist position at <i>UE News</i> for no reason other than pregnancy — an incident that ended up sparking a significant cultural shift. These firebrand actions paved the way for many, many more women than merely those in her industry.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/ihas/poet/fuller.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Margaret Fuller</span></a>:</b> As a voracious reader, it makes perfect sense that the vibrant Margaret Fuller would go on to become the first full-time, American, female book review journalist. Her transcendentalist leanings inspired good friend Ralph Waldo Emerson to offer her an editorship position with <i>The Dial</i> in 1839. From there, she joined up with <i>New York Tribune</i> and secured a lauded literary critic spot, though Fuller also covered the visual and performing arts, social justice and political issues on occasion. Two years after that, the newspaper named her its first female editor because of her column's great success.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/Content/Articles/Issues/Media-and-Publicity/M/Mary-Garber-Legendary-Sportswriter.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Mary Garber</span></a>:</b> For nearly 70 years, heavily decorated Mary Garber enjoyed preeminence as the veritable First Lady of sports journalism. Her career launched in 1940 as <i>Twin City Sentinel</i>'s society editor, but snapped up general assignments once World War II started leaving holes in the staff — and it just so happened that sports coverage needed a warm body after a while. After that, Geaber's knowledge, passion and tenacity earned her a litany of awards, honors and critical acclaim. Most importantly of all, though, such a success challenged preconceived notions of women and journalism.</li><li><b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayala_Hasson-Nesher" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Ayala Hasson-Nesher</span></a>:</b> This news correspondent with IBA is considered one of Israel's foremost political commentators, earning the very first Queen of the Desert Award celebrating female empowerment. Ayala Hasson-Nesher's career unearthed some incredibly shattering conspiracies, most notably the Bar-On-Hebron controversy of 1997. Today, she hosts the news magazine show <i>Yoman</i> on weekends and continues to cover the hard-hitting political stories garnering her initial renown. In addition to being seen on IBA, Israeli citizens can hear her "Hakol Diburim" radio program on its Kol Yisrael station.</li><li><b><a href="http://library.syr.edu/digital/guides/h/higgins_m.htm#d0e141" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Marguerite Higgins</span></a>:</b> Female war correspondents today owe a debt of gratitude to Marguerite Higgins for her pioneering work in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. She launched such an illustrious pedigree with <i>New York Herald Tribune</i>, eventually covering such momentous historical events as the liberation of Dachau, the Nuremberg Trials and the first few days of the Korean War in addition to interviewing notable names like Jawaharlal Nehru, Francisco Franco and Nikita Khrushchev. General Douglas MacArthur declared the ban on female war correspondents because of Higgins' tenacity as the Korean War broke out. Among her myriad other awards and accomplishments, this influential woman was the very first to ever receive a Pulitzer Prize.</li><li><b><a href="http://mije.org/nancy-maynard" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Nancy Hicks Maynard</span></a>:</b> The Maynard Institute of Journalism Education leaves a wonderful legacy for its stunning, groundbreaking co-founder. Nancy Hicks Maynard paved the way for women and minority journalists alike when she became the first African-American, female reporter with <i>The New York Times</i>, working on education, science and healthcare stories. After that, she served as president of the MIJE, which she co-founded with husband Robert C. Maynard. Together, they also purchased the struggling newspaper <i>Oakland Tribune</i> — thus making it the very first entirely African-American owned and operated daily in a major metropolitan area.</li><li><b><a href="http://wpcf.org/oralhistory/paynint.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Ethel L. Payne</span></a>:</b> In 1972, Ethel L. Payne made history when CBS made her the very first African-American female commentator at a major news organization. Her blend of journalism and activism during the Civil Rights Era garnered the nickname "First Lady of the Black Press," and she started out covering the lives of black soldiers stationed in Japan. While working for the <i>Chicago Defender</i>, Payne stood at the forefront of racial equality, with stories about the 1963 March on Washington, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, desegregation of the University of Alabama and plenty more. She even famously interviewed President Dwight D. Eisenhower and asked him point blank about the desegregation of interstate transportation.</li><li><b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl_Stewart" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Pearl Stewart</span></a>:</b> <i>Oakland Tribune</i> once again played an integral role in equitable journalism when it hired Pearl Stewart for its editor position. Though it only lasted seven months from 1992 to 1992, she still became the very first African-American woman to edit a major city's newspaper. Over a decade after departing to make room for original chair holder David Burgin, Stewart took up editing for <i>Chicago Defender</i>, although she ended up resigning two months after. Most of her legacy goes largely unsung, however, as she served in several roles at Florida A&amp;M's School of Journalism and Graphic Communication.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.biography.com/articles/Barbara-Walters-9523127" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Barbara Walters</span></a>:</b> These days, most think of Barbara Walters as a celebrity first, journalist second, with many completely unaware of her earlier gender breakthroughs. In 1974, NBC named her the first female anchor on a major network's evening news. Walters co-anchored <i>The Today Show</i> and, in doing so, opened up the floodgates for other women journalists wanting a spot on local and national programming. It probably comes as no shock to anyone, but she encountered considerable sexism from the men with whom she shared desk and studio space — and boy howdy will she remind everyone at any given opportunity.</li><li><b><a href="http://www.biography.com/articles/Oprah-Winfrey-9534419" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0e839f;">Oprah Winfrey</span></a>:</b> Oprah Winfrey, regardless of opinion, undoubtedly shapes a not-insignificant segment of pop culture with her juggernaut media empire. The very definition of a self-made billionaire, her traumatized, impoverished childhood ended when she landed a position anchoring the local news at age 19. From there, she climbed her way up the professional hierarchy — no easy feat for a minority woman — and completely revolutionized the daytime talk show format into something viable and (to tens of millions of viewers) relevant. Today, her worldwide acclaim and personal and financial successes inspire many female journalists hoping for even a molecule of what she's earned.</li><a href="http://www.bachelorsdegreeonline.com/" id="logo" title="">Bachelors Degree Online</a></ol></div></div></div></div><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4130745250257817914?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-59178628824729032732011-05-15T12:28:00.000-04:002011-05-15T12:28:06.454-04:00<div>Hi job seekers,<br />I am introducing a new series on social media. Stay informed on this blog for some tried and test tips on using social media, as well as the latest trends in social media. The tips are not necessarily ranked in order, but are vital to infusing your online digital presence, often known as your "digital footprint." <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vUMZQMCEiII/TZpsj6ttT1I/AAAAAAAAADk/LvMq8Z4T7KI/s1600/twitter+image.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vUMZQMCEiII/TZpsj6ttT1I/AAAAAAAAADk/LvMq8Z4T7KI/s1600/twitter+image.bmp" /></a></div><br />Have you ever been on twitter and your intent is to maintain a smooth, focused conversation, but you are sidetracked or distracted by other tweets? Start using hashtags or the # sign on your keyboard. Hashtags are meant to funnel down your preferred area of concentration. For example, #jobsearch, #jobhunt or #career change. If you are still unsure of how to use a hashtag, check which is a dictionary&nbsp;service called <a href="http://www.tagalus.com/">http://www.tagalus.com/</a>, which provides a definition of hashtags. You can sign up for tagalus on Twitter.<br />Currently, tagalus.com is in beta, however, more people seeing the value of narrowing their hashtag chats and searches on Twitter.<br /><br />What hashtag has brought you the best results (i.e. job leads, contacts, finding influential people, getting job search advice) in your job search? <br /><br />For a limited time, <strong>I will send you a FREE copy of my ebook</strong>, How to use social media in your job search if you comment on this blog&nbsp;no later than <strong>May 31st.</strong><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dYSWKWrXzHw/TZpsxoy3Q-I/AAAAAAAAADo/pG7hHcqd9Pw/s1600/followme.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dYSWKWrXzHw/TZpsxoy3Q-I/AAAAAAAAADo/pG7hHcqd9Pw/s1600/followme.bmp" /></a></div>Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media strategist<br />@ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5917862882472903273?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-84246520738616310222011-05-05T20:46:00.000-04:002011-05-05T20:46:30.083-04:00<div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a> <script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><br />Thanks Liz Nutt for submitting the following article:<br /><h1><a href="http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/"><span style="color: #cd2727;">10 Big Businesses That Started in a Garage</span></a></h1><div class="bookmarkify"><a href="" name="bookmarkify"></a><div class="linkbuttons"><a href="http://del.icio.us/post?url=http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/&amp;title=10 Big Businesses That Started in a Garage" rel="nofollow" title="Save to del.icio.us"><span style="color: #cd2727;"><img alt="[del.icio.us] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/delicious.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></span></a> <a href="http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&amp;url=http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/&amp;title=10 Big Businesses That Started in a Garage" rel="nofollow" title="Digg It!"><img alt="[Digg] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/digg.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/" rel="nofollow" title="Save to Facebook"><img alt="[Facebook] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/facebook.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.mixx.com/submit?page_url=http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/" rel="nofollow" title="Save to Mixx"><img alt="[Mixx] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/mixx.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://reddit.com/submit?url=http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/&amp;title=10 Big Businesses That Started in a Garage" rel="nofollow" title="Reddit"><img alt="[Reddit] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/reddit.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.stumbleupon.com/submit?url=http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/&amp;title=10 Big Businesses That Started in a Garage" rel="nofollow" title="Stumble It!"><img alt="[StumbleUpon] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/stumbleupon.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://twitter.com/home/?status=10 Big Businesses That Started in a Garage+http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/" rel="nofollow" title="Save to Twitter"><img alt="[Twitter] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/twitter.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/a/emailFlare?itemTitle=10 Big Businesses That Started in a Garage&amp;uri=http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog/2011/10-big-businesses-that-started-in-a-garage/&amp;loc=en_US" rel="nofollow" title="Email this to a friend"><img alt="[Email] " src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/plugins/bookmarkify/email.png" style="height: 16px; width: 16px;" /></a> </div></div><br /><br /><img align="right" alt="" height="175" hspace="30" src="http://www.accountingdegree.com/wp-content/uploads/garage.jpg" vspace="10" width="230" />Every big business had to start out somewhere, right? Some have come from more humble beginnings than others, launching with no more than some basic equipment, a couple employees, a garage space and a big idea. Whether you’re a business or <a href="http://www.accountingdegree.com/blog"><span style="color: #cd2727;">finance student</span></a> hoping to follow your own path to entrepreneurial success or already working in your own garage on the next big thing, these stories of companies that rose from obscurity to be multi-million (or billion) dollar industries can be a big inspiration. They may very well help you finally realize your dream of getting out of that garage and onto bigger and better things.<br /><ol><li><strong><a href="http://www.edibleapple.com/the-place-where-it-all-got-started-steve-jobs-garage"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Apple</span></a>: </strong>Today, consumers will wait in line for hours just to get their hands on some of Apple’s latest products, but once upon a time this electronics giant was a mere blip on the technology industry’s radar. Back in 1976, Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniack and Ronald Wayne started a business out of a garage in Cupertino, CA, putting together one of the first prototypes of their personal computers. Over the next decades, the company would introduce several more models, including their Macintosh line in 1984, arguably what turned them from a struggling startup into a fully fledged business. Today, the company manufactures much more than computers, has almost 50,000 employees and brings in revenues of over 14 billion each year.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.wired.com/techbiz/media/news/2006/10/71888"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Google</span></a>:</strong> Google might be a household name today, but back in 1998 the search engine giant was just starting out. Their corporate headquarters? A Menlo Park, CA garage. For the next five months, Google’s staff of three would work out of this garage, perfecting their search algorithm, indexing web pages, and raiding the refrigerator of their friend’s attached home. By the next year the company had outgrown the garage and eventually moved into what is today known as the Googleplex. To celebrate their 8th birthday, Google purchased the garage and intends to preserve it as a lasting legacy to the humble beginnings of their business.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.ehow.com/facts_5234373_history-mattel-toys.html"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Mattel</span></a>:</strong> Mattel wasn’t always the toy maker we know it as today. When the Handler’s got their start in the 1940’s in a Southern California garage, they were making picture frames, not toys. Ruth Handler began taking the scraps of wood from those frames and making doll furniture, a side business which proved quite successful. Because of this, the entrepreneurs decided to change their focus to toys instead. In 1959, they introduced the first Barbie, and afterwards became a household name. Today they’re home to big names in the toy business like Fisher Price, Hot Wheels, American Girl and a number of board games.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.hp.com/hpinfo/abouthp/histnfacts/garage"><span style="color: #cd2727;">HP</span></a>: </strong>Back in 1939, Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard decided to establish their own electronics manufacturing company. Based out their garage in Palo Alto, CA, with an initial investment of only $538, the two helped establish the technology hub that would become Silicon Valley. When they started out, they made everything from high-tech electronics to agricultural products but by the 60’s were homing in on the tech market exclusively. Today, the company is an electronics giant, with some of the highest quality personal computing products on the market. They have opted to preserve the garage where they got their start, making it into a museum.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_5377195_history-amazoncom.html"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Amazon</span></a>: </strong>In 1994, Jeff Bezos laid the foundations for what would be the online retailing giant Amazon in his garage, hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow garage entrepreneurs HP. With a strong foundation, the company grew very quickly, and before long was in need of a much bigger space to house their operations. Today, there are few people who haven’t shopped with the online retailer, buying everything from food to televisions to electronic media. This small business had become one of the leading retailers in the world, with billions of dollars in sales each year.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.mouseplanet.com/8366/The_Little_Disney_Garage_Nobody_Wanted"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Disney</span></a>: </strong>While he would go on to build an animation and entertainment empire, Walt Disney’s first studio was a tiny, one car garage in Hollywood. There he worked on a variety of animation products, setting up a makeshift studio in the space, while he waited to see if his Alice in Wonderland pilot would be picked up by any major distributors. It was, and the company quickly moved out of the garage into a proper studio. These days, Disney is an entertainment giant for kids and adults alike with movies, theme parks and products around the world. That tiny garage was almost torn down, but the dedication of a few interested citizens helped to save it and interested visitors can go there today to see where it all began.</li><li><strong><a href="http://computer.howstuffworks.com/microsoft1.htm"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Microsoft</span></a>: </strong>In 1975, Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded Microsoft, with just a few resources and an available garage space. Unlike Apple who developed both software and hardware, Microsoft homed in on the software market. Working with IBM, the company licensed their first OS for a mere $80,000. Later, they would go on to develop more sophisticated operating systems that would evolve into those we know as Windows today. The business would grow to be one of the most profitable and powerful in the world, dominating the personal computing market.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.maglite.com/history.asp"><span style="color: #cd2727;">MagLite</span></a>: </strong>Anthony Maglica started his dream of owning a business by working long hours to earn the money it would take to put a down payment on his first lathe. Working in a Los Angeles garage, he began to design and build precision parts for industry, aerospace and the military. By 1974, he was incorporated as Mag Instrument and the company was gaining a reputation for the quality of their products. In 1979, MagLite released their first flashlight, the product they are best known for today. It would help them to become a household name and secure their place in the market.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.yankeecandle.com/cgi-bin/ycbvp/ycContent.jsp?page=%2FNavigation%2FNon%2BProduct%2BLeft%2FAbout%2BYankee%2BCandle%2FCompany%2BProfile"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Yankee Candle Company</span></a>:</strong> Unable to afford a present for his mother, young Michael Kittredge created his first scented candle from some melted crayons in his garage. Neighbors saw the candles and began purchasing them from him, eventually motivating the high school student to found a business with two high school friends. Kittredge sold the company in 1999 after a cancer scare, but it has gone on to even greater success and is now sold at many major retailers and a number of its own standalone stores.</li><li><strong><a href="http://www.harley-davidson.com/wcm/Content/Pages/H-D_History/history_1900s.jsp?locale=en_US"><span style="color: #cd2727;">Harley Davidson</span></a>: </strong>It makes complete sense that a company selling vehicles would get its start in a garage or outbuilding, because that’s where those products eventually end up. Harley Davidson did just that, starting out in 1901 with a small business that built engines for bicycles. Of course, it wasn’t long before they started developing the motorcycles for which they are known, and in 1903 they had already released their first racing bike, constructed in a small wooden shed. Buoyed by the popularity and speed of their motorcycles, the company expands, constantly rethinking the best ways to build a bike. Today, they’re still known for producing </li></ol><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-8424652073861631022?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-73476905113006784622011-04-26T17:16:00.000-04:002011-04-26T17:16:59.055-04:00<div><br />Greetings everyone,<br />Earlier today, I received an email from Liz Nutt, <a href="http://www.accountingdegree.com/">http://www.accountingdegree.com/</a>. Liz, inspired by this blog, asked if the following article could be posted here.<br />With pleasure Liz!<br /><br />Melissa Martin<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MkG6n0ihDcY/Tbc2PuF1bjI/AAAAAAAAAD8/bbrqipg8g8I/s1600/women.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MkG6n0ihDcY/Tbc2PuF1bjI/AAAAAAAAAD8/bbrqipg8g8I/s320/women.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><br />Opening up your own company poses all sorts of obstacles, no matter your gender. But some women — in this country and overseas — encounter even more challenges depending on their community, education, competition and culture. Here are 15 female entrepreneurs from the past and present who are incredibly inspiring for their creativity, cleverness and courage.<br /><br /><br /><br />1.Oprah Winfrey: Oprah’s been the queen of TV for decades, and while she’s moved on from her iconic talk show on network television, her Harpo Productions Inc. empire is still evolving. An entire cable network devoted to shows and people she finds inspiring is one of Oprah’s latest projects as she continues to build up her website, magazine and radio show. Born in a poor community in Mississippi, Winfrey was sent to live with different relatives around the country and was sexually abused as a child. She credits her father with "turning [her] life around" and helping her recognize her potential and her natural gifts, a mission she has pursued on her talk show and in her many charitable endeavors, like her Angel Network. Forbes calculated Winfrey’s net worth for 2011 at $2.7 billion.<br /><br />2.Diane von Furstenberg: Fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg is known in the industry as a compassionate, modern mentor to young women, emerging talents, designers and Middle American fans. As a newlywed to the the German Prince Egon of Furstenberg, Diane vowed to start her own company and act as an independent woman instead of benefiting from her sudden luxurious lifestyle. Her wrap dresses became a major success among newly empowered American working women, and although she and her husband divorced — and she later suffered a major blow to business — von Furstenberg is again working and serving at the top of the fashion industry. As president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, von Furstenberg mentors new designers. She also sits on the board of a women’s leadership organization called Vital Voices and promotes the efforts of other young women entrepreneurs, as well as the preservation of her local neighborhood in New York.<br /><br />3.Madame C.J. Walker: In a speech given to the audience at the National Negro Business League Convention in 1912, inventor Madame C.J. Walker summarized her rise to business success by saying she was promoted from the cotton fields to the washtub to the cook kitchen — until she took her career and livelihood into her own hands by starting a manufacturing business. Born in Louisiana to former slaves, Walker was an orphan at six, a wife at 14, and a mother soon after. Inspired by a dream she’d had to start a cosmetics and hair-care line for African American women, Walker used the $1.25 she had saved to fund her new business. After selling her products door-to-door, Walker’s company eventually grew to serve customers around the world, making her the first self-made woman millionaire in the country.<br /><br />4.Ashley Qualls: Qualls was just 14 when she started her own company, a website called Whateverlife.com that helped teens design their own MySpace pages and learn graphic design. Motivated to help other young people express their feelings and follow their own path in life, Qualls borrowed money from her mother to buy the domain name, but quickly recruited millions of visitors and earning tens of thousands of dollars per month. On her About page, Ashley reminds users that "no matter what your age is, never limit yourself!" and that when you find something you’re passionate about, you can take your "ideas to even higher heights."<br /><br />5.Estee Lauder: One of the most famous female entrepreneurs in American history, Estee Lauder built an extremely successful business that’s still earning big profits today, despite the recession. Lauder was born in New York City to immigrant parents, but with the help of a chemist uncle, quickly began developing skin creams that were sold in clubs and resorts. Lauder eventually fought for her own counter space at Saks Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, gave samples to all of her friends and acquaintances, and expanded to fragrances in the next several years. Lauder became a billionaire before dying in 2004, and the Estee Lauder Companies shares are at this moment selling for $95.36 on the NYSE.<br /><br />6.Mary Kay Ash: Another inspirational American entrepreneur is Mary Kay Ash, the woman who created Mary Kay cosmetics. The Texas native began her own business pursuits after resigning from a company that continued to promote male employees ahead of her, despite her seniority and higher skill set. She used her $5,000 in savings and the help of her son to start Beauty by Mary Kay — a company that now relies on 2 million beauty consultants to sell her products around the country.<br /><br />7.Nellie Cashman: Cashman earned many nicknames during her life as a frontier woman, traveling between Western mining camps — Miner’s Angel, The Angel of Tombstone and Saint of the Sourdoughs are just a few. Irish-born Cashman moved to San Francisco from Boston with her sister in 1869 and first worked as a cook in mining camps until she could afford to open her own boarding house in Nevada, just three years later. For the next phase of her life, Cashman traveled around the North American West, opening restaurants and boarding houses while supporting the local communities through charitable projects with churches and the Salvation Army and giving out free cigars to her mining customers.<br /><br />8.Caterina Fake: Modern-day entrepreneur Caterina Fake is the co-founder of Hunch and Flickr, but her influence reaches well beyond those two social sites. Fake has invested in many sites like Etsy, Maya’s Mom and Daily Booth, and serves on the board of Creative Commons. Through Hunch and Flickr, Fake is hoping to make the Internet a more personal and personally significant tool for broadening users’ perspectives and connecting us to the hobbies, people and causes important to them.<br /><br />9.Kamila Sidiqi: In a country where women entrepreneurs aren’t just scarce, but extremely controversial and sometimes in danger of practicing their business, Kamila Sidiqi isn’t just quietly setting up her own shop. Instead, the dressmaker is helping other Afghan women develop their own companies, too. Left alone by a father and brother who fled the Taliban, Sidiqi helped her siblings, who in turn helped her start her business by teaching her to sew and taking her on potentially violent expeditions to buy supplies. Now, Sidiqi runs a consultancy firm supporting women entrepreneurs in her area.<br /><br />10.Judi Henderson-Townsend: Henderson-Townsend recognized an opportunity for business and seized it — and her risk paid off. She bought up the entire inventory from a closing mannequin store and started a part-time business, called Mannequin Madness, which sells, rents, recycles, repairs and blogs about mannequins. The company has since become respected or its green and socially responsible business plan, helping other retailers recycle their mannequins instead of throwing them away.<br /><br />11.Sara Blakely: Celebrities and everyday women often slip on a pair of SPANX products before a night out — or important meeting — to help them feel more comfortable and confident in their clothing. Started by Sara Blakeley, the SPANX line of slimming apparel and undergarments is a relatively new company but has beam an indispensable product for women around the country. Blakeley worked hard to maximize her savings to start her company, reading books on getting trademarked, driving around to convince manufactures to make her products, and even using inspiration from her background in stand-up comedy for branding purpose, and inviting sales reps from distinguished department stores into the fitting room to prove how well her SPANX worked. Oprah came calling soon after.<br /><br />12.Ishita Khanna: This young entrepreneur is dedicated to helping remote Himalayan villages go green in an effort to boost their economy and become more sustainable. She has educated and motivated the community in environmental management through her company Spitiecosphere, which focuses on eco-travel, organic crops and conservation as its principle projects.<br /><br />13.Lauren Bush: Although she’s former President George W. Bush’s niece and fiance to Ralph Lauren heir and executive David Lauren (yes, she will be Lauren Lauren), and once worked as a model, Lauren Bush was motivated enough to start her own sustainable company just after graduating college. As the co-founder of FEED, and Chairman of the Board of the FEED Foundation, Bush worked with the UN to start a company that facilitates the creation of bags and accessories that are sold to raise donations to help feed underserved populations around the world. Each FEED product is made from environmentally sound materials, using fair-labor production and artisan-made materials.<br /><br />14.Ama Pomaa Andoh: Ama Pomaa Andoh is the founder of Ghana Young Women Social Entrepreneurs, a resource center for women who want to learn how to start their own business. Women are encouraged to implement "innovative grassroots change" that is sustainable and mutually beneficial to their communities. After a meeting at the FORTUNE/U.S. State Department Global Women’s Mentoring Partnership organized by Diane von Furstenberg-supported Vital Voices, Ama Pomaa Andoh returned home to start GYWSE.<br /><br />15.Deborah Meaden: Meaden dropped out of high school to take business classes at a technical school, and moved to Italy after graduation. She quickly developed her own glass and ceramics import company, which was successful at first but ended up cheating her out of business. Meaden moved on to other projects before buying out an existing business and taking over. Today, Meaden is a successful investor and marketer in the UK.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-7347690511300678462?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-56845061742591770042011-04-22T20:02:00.001-04:002011-04-22T20:04:11.209-04:00<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">10 Netiquette Rules Every Job Seeker Should Know<br /><br />I am pleased to have Tina from <a href="http://www.bestuniversities.com/">http://www.bestuniversities.com/</a> submit this post.<br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FK7a8NqDXq4/TbIW9NwDlVI/AAAAAAAAAD4/y5KnGtVoJW8/s1600/net.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="234" i8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FK7a8NqDXq4/TbIW9NwDlVI/AAAAAAAAAD4/y5KnGtVoJW8/s320/net.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />As our lives become more and more involved with the internet, we have to become more aware of our web presence. Netiquette, the etiquette of the internet, is of more importance now than it ever has been before. With online classes, online job profiles, and online dating, the way we conduct ourselves online impacts every aspect of our lives. In the online world, our communication skills are tested. The only means of communication we have on the web is through the written word, which can cause several complications. For this reason, it is imperative to communicate clearly and professionally in all online arenas. The following netiquette rules will guide a job seeker in the world of professional internet use.<br /><br /><br /><br />1.Be Professional: While this notion encompasses almost all of what we will discuss, being professional in email correspondence means more than the words you use and the tone you convey. Something as simple as the email address you use can mar even the most well written message. When sending an email on a serious matter it is important that you appear serious on all fronts. If the email address you are sending from sounds silly or joking, it will reflect poorly upon you and can demean your professional credibility. Now, we realize that this advice may sound dated. After all, who uses the email address surferchick22@something.com anymore? But, we believe that this notion is important enough to repeat, even if it is archaic. As a tip for today's users, sending an email to a potential employer from a dot edu or a dot org email address can give you more credibility. For one thing, using a school or organization email address proves that the educational or professional information on your resume is true.<br /><br />2.Evaluate Your Tone: Deciding on an appropriate tone of voice to use in internet communication can be difficult. Because emailing can be so impersonal, people can sometimes come off in a manner that is more informal or harsh than they intend. When writing an email from the comfort of your own home, it can be easy to slip into an overly conversational tone or a tone that sounds too direct when in writing. Because email correspondence is so quick and easy, people often send off their thoughts without properly reviewing them. Often times, people will send an email without reading it over and evaluating the way the language sounds when read by the recipient. For this reason, it is important to judge what tone is appropriate for that particular correspondence before you begin and read over the message when you are done to make sure that it accurately conveys the desired tone. When communicating with an employer about an open position or an interest in the company, it is always important to sound positive and friendly. Thank the individual you are emailing for their time and express that you look forward to hearing back from them.<br /><br />3.Use Proper Language and Titles: Another essential aspect of professional emailing etiquette is a writing a proper greeting. Be sure to include a greeting that is both courteous and official when conversing with any individual in any professional setting. Always address the individual you are speaking to with the appropriate level of formality and (though it may sound silly) be sure you have spelled their name correctly. Do not address them as you would a friend. For example, it is not appropriate to simply right "hi" or "hey" at the beginning of an email. Always address whomever you are speaking to with their official title (whether it is Dr., Mr., or Mrs.). If you are unsure of what the individual's official title is default to Mr. or Mrs. to be safe. If the individual replies to you and has used his or her first name only, then it is safe to assume you can call them by their first name. However, to be safe and remain professional, it may be wise to refer to that person as Mr. or Mrs. through all email correspondence.<br /><br />4.Use Effective Communication: This tip is key to all aspects of writing and (of course) takes some practice. Writing effective, clear messages can be difficult at first. You must be thoughtful and careful with your language. Try to be as clear and concise in your email correspondence as possible. Once you have completed your message read (and reread) it before you click send. Be sure to define and restate your words when you think necessary. Keep in mind that if something sounds unclear to you it will certainly be unclear to your reader. Within the same notion, be mindful of the words you use and the phrases that you write. As discussed earlier, it can be difficult to determine tone in writing, so if you use a phrase that is dependent upon inflection when spoken it is probably not the best choice for written correspondence.<br /><br />5.Ask for Clarification: Never assume you know the intention of an email if you are unsure. It is important to ask the sender to clarify anything that confuses you. As discussed earlier, it is easy to misinterpret emails because tone can sometimes be difficult to determine. If you think that you are misunderstanding something the other individual is saying or that you have misinterpreted their tone, just ask. It is always safer to send a quick email asking for clarification then it is to email a reply that you are not completely confident about. A potential employer will appreciate your responsiveness and maturity when dealing with confusion. Be sure to place the reason for confusion on yourself and not the sender. You do not want to come off as accusatory or blaming. A simple way to do this is to write, "I did not understand�", keeping the burden for the misunderstanding on yourself. Accepting blame also displays a level of maturity and confidence that is important within the professional world.<br /><br />6.Do Not Over-Send: While sending emails asking for clarification is important, it is also important that you use restraint when emailing. Do not clog an individual's inbox with messages that are not completely necessary. Be sure to reread the message you are having trouble understanding and make sure that you have no way of answering the question on your own. Although it can be difficult at times, you must consider that emailing is the same as having a face-to-face conversation. Every message you send is taking time from someone's day. You do not want to waste anyone's time or suggest to them that you do not consider their time valuable by over-sending emails.<br /><br />7.Write Appropriate Subject Lines: The subject line of an email, next to your name, is the first thing the recipient sees. For this reason, it is one of the most important (and most difficult) aspects of writing an email. It is important to convey a message in this line that is clear, concise, and informative. Give the recipient the bottom line of the message they are about to read without giving a complete summary of the entire email. Be precise and include details that allow the recipient to identify what you are talking about quickly and unambiguously. As a job seeker who is emailing a potential employer, never leave the subject line of an email blank. It is important to standout to the employer you are corresponding with. You want to grab their attention (in a professional manner) without looking too showy. Employers seeking new employees likely receive dozens and dozens of emails a day. Many will completely disregard an email sent without a subject.<br /><br />8.Use Proper Grammar and Spelling: It is endlessly important to use proper grammar and spelling in emails. Slipping into an overly conversational tone can be easy when communicating through email. While informal emails are fine when conversing with friends and family, you should always speak with potential employers in a professional manner. Messages that utilize poor grammar and have several misspelled words, demonstrate carelessness. If you do not take the time to edit your emails before you send them it will imply that you do not value the recipient's time. Quite simply, an email with poor grammar and bad spelling will not be taken seriously.<br /><br />9.Sell Yourself: Going hand-in-hand with using proper grammar and spelling, it is important to look good when seeking a job online. In today's techno-savvy world, many companies require job seekers to create an account or profile in order to apply for a position. In this profile, individuals should "sell" themselves to their potential employer. Your writing is the main thing that you will be judged by online (because, for the most part, it is the only thing available). Make yourself look good online by demonstrating professional writing etiquette. Be sure to display your strengths in these profiles. Also, it is important that any profiles that already exist online reflect you in a positive and professional manner. If you have a Facebook (or MySpace) account, be sure to make it display you in a positive and professional light or make it completely private and hidden from potential employers.<br /><br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FK7a8NqDXq4/TbIW9NwDlVI/AAAAAAAAAD4/y5KnGtVoJW8/s1600/net.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>10.Be Honest: While "selling yourself" in an online job profile is important to landing the position you desire, you must also be careful to remain completely honest. Because the world of the internet is faceless, it can be easy to fabricate information and think that you will get away with it. For many reasons, lying online can get you into more trouble than admitting your weaknesses (true in all aspects of life). Demonstrating your strengths and acknowledging your weaknesses shows a potential employer that you are willing and able to grow.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5684506174259177004?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-49461721088204170422011-03-15T20:51:00.002-04:002011-06-13T21:25:29.753-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VavySZsHFxQ/Tfa4aRlh3MI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/Fy9lfFThDs0/s1600/imagesCA6U8X2Z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VavySZsHFxQ/Tfa4aRlh3MI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/Fy9lfFThDs0/s1600/imagesCA6U8X2Z.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />A client of mine, B, attended an interview this week for a tourism cruise line. She was flabbergasted when she was asked this actual interview question:<br /><br />"How familiar are you with social media?"<br /><br />Becing familiar with social media is no longer a desirable asset. It is a necessity in a 21st century job search. The&nbsp;following statistics&nbsp;ought to convince you, unequivocally, about the importance of using social media:<br />-a 2010 survey report by the Canadian Association of&nbsp;Career Educators and&nbsp;Employers (CACEE), revealed an increase of employers using social media increased by 11%, compared to the previous year<br />The executive director of CACEE affirmed these findings by commenting:"&nbsp;Canadian recruiters are "increasingly turning to popular social media sites like <strong>Linkedin, Facebook </strong>and<strong> YouTube</strong> to find their hires."<br /><br />Here are the current statistics:<br /><br />Dave Fleet posted an article" 25 suggestions for how to use Twitter in 2011."&nbsp;<a href="http://www.davefleet.com/">http://www.davefleet.com/</a><br /><br />Facebook; Users 600M (Worldwide) <br /><br />Twitter; Users 200M (Worldwide) <br /><br />LinkedIn; Users 101 M (Worldwide) <br />So if&nbsp;you think that social media is just a method to connect with friends and family by sending pictures and videos, think again. Social media can boost your job search overnight and reward you with dividends, not to mention capturing the attention of hiring managers, decision makers, recruiters and potential employers-the same contacts you want to connect with. With all of the tremendous competition in the job market (10% officially in the U.S. and close to the same number in Canada), isn’t it time that you changed your job approach and embraced a medium that will get you noticed? <br /><br />For more on how to use social media strategically in your job search, buy my ebook, <strong><u>How to use social</u></strong> <strong>media in your job search</strong> on my site, <a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br />Need a social media job searching strategy?<br />Want to improve your professional brand with employers with a <strong>customized Facebook fan page</strong>?<br />Contact me at <a href="mailto:mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com">mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com</a><br />1-877-621-3141<br /><br />Melissa Martin, biiingual career and social media strategist<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />ebook author, <strong><u>How to use social media in your job search</u></strong><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border: 0px currentColor;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4946172108820417042?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-62253962233824905292011-03-06T13:41:00.001-05:002011-03-06T13:45:21.687-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jhbVu6w2h4Y/TXPWL9YgZcI/AAAAAAAAADQ/NizuK5y1oHw/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" l6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jhbVu6w2h4Y/TXPWL9YgZcI/AAAAAAAAADQ/NizuK5y1oHw/s1600/untitled.bmp" /></a></div>A client was preparing to meet a potential employer in her designated field.<br /><br />I prepared her on how to conduct her an information interview and an on-the-spot mini-interview (a cold call resulted in my first teaching job years ago).<br /><br />When meeting with potential employers, especially in your field, say something like this:<br />I'm (name) and I am new in the area. I'm just looking for information. My specialization is:_____ What would you recommend for someone who is new to ___(community) and is breaking into (field of expertise)?' I would appreciate your <strong>F- eedback. There's the F word.</strong><br /><br />Wait for a response. Then ask for 2-3 names to build your network of contacts.<br /><br />Human nature. People love to be asked for advice. They also love being consulted for their expertise.<br /><br />The client not only received a callback from the contact (after leaving a voicemail!) AND an offer to meet over his lunch hour. This contact was a complete stranger.<br /><br />She's also meeting him a second time.<br /><br />Use the F word. It works<br /><br />Need help on how to approach a potential employer?<br />Email me at <a href="mailto:mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com">mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com</a><br />Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphonecom<br />Twitter:@ravingredhead @melissacmartin<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6225396223382490529?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-39172937571551628442011-02-28T20:33:00.000-05:002011-02-28T20:33:44.487-05:00<div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-mJ-eAzSDbIM/TWxMa9fOo4I/AAAAAAAAADM/Tyu5wvpW1_4/s1600/imagesCABW5F94.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-mJ-eAzSDbIM/TWxMa9fOo4I/AAAAAAAAADM/Tyu5wvpW1_4/s1600/imagesCABW5F94.jpg" /></a>My colleague and fellow Canadian John-Paul Hatala is undeniably an expert in social networking. We have attended and presented at major career conferences over the years. "JP" and I&nbsp;have both posted counselling articles on the prestigious counselling site, <a href="http://www.contactpoint.ca/">http://www.contactpoint.ca/</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">John-Paul drew a comparison between dieting and networking. Both profess to offer quick results (well, the&nbsp; "quick" diet web sites that permeate&nbsp;the internet). How do they relate to a successful job search?</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Both need time invesments for best results.</div><br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Realize that effective networking takes time and effort. Building a network of contacts doesn't happen overnight, but when properly applied to a job search, it's time well invested.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Best wishes,</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphonecom</div>Twitter: @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-3917293757155162844?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-30154833277440915612011-02-23T20:46:00.003-05:002011-04-19T19:22:09.703-04:00<div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.dreamstime.com/competing-running-for-success--rimage396018-resi1660250"><img src="http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumbimg_34/1134502422oo5Q1V.jpg" /></a></center><br /><br />I'd like to share some notes from a presentation I delivered at an international career conference, called&nbsp; Cannexus&nbsp;in Ottawa, Canada&nbsp; <a href="http://www.cannexus.ca/">http://www.cannexus.ca/</a><br /><br />Perhaps in my next life, I will germinate into a web/Wordpress designer, but for now, let's concentrate on CONTENT:<br /><br /><br />1. <strong>What are the best Social networking sites to use for your Job Search and Career Ma</strong>nagement?<br /><br />-decide what your goals/objectives are <br />-what do you want to achieve by using social networks? Job leads? Connecting with industry experts? Building relationships gradually? <br /><br />-take a test drive ex: If using Twitter, find friends on other networks tool ex: gmail or yahoo<br /><br />-find other twitter users who tweet&nbsp;about the same topics you're interested in, such as career change, résumé writing, interviewing, etc.<br />-use <a href="http://www.twellow.com/">http://www.twellow.com/</a> to search for experts in your desired field<br /><br />-test your existing online ID, if no ID, think about privacy settings ex: <a href="http://www.onlineidcalculator.com/">http://www.OnlineIDcalculator.com/</a><br /><br />-ask for leads from contacts on Twitter<br /><br />-choose a theme or topic you want to be referenced to<br />-join twitter lists<br />-use hashtags (#) to funnel down your area of interest. Some examples include: #careers #resumes #hiring #jobhunt #jobhuntchat #careercollective <br /><br />-use niche web sites if in a specialized field<br /><br />2.<strong> How do the social media sites&nbsp;differ?</strong><br /><br />a. <strong>Twitter</strong>-24/7 conversation; real time; the information network; like a cocktail party-7 million visits<br /><br />-share information, connect, engage; leadership building; personal branding<br /><br />-job searching ex: Tweet my jobs; Twellowhood: local directory search for T users by topic or name; T applications on -connect with influential people<br /><br />-learn cutting edge information<br /><br />-personal and professional branding <br /><br />b. <strong>Linked in</strong>-professional SM site; recruiters and hiring managers use it for screening passive and inactive candidates; the "business suit"<br /><br />-job seekers can take advantage of unique features: recommendations; get introduced; job insider info; search for jobs; find out info about managers BEFORE interview &amp; get info from previous employees<br /><br />-get professional advice on job search/career info on groups<br /><br />-replace paper resume with a compelling Linkedin profile&nbsp;that acts as a "call to action."&nbsp; Keep revising. Make sure your profile can&nbsp;be read out loud&nbsp;for 30-45 seconds as an "attention-getting" marketing document<br /><br />Stats: 20 connections are 34 times more likely to be approached with a job than people with less than 5 connections <br /><br />-can use to predict job search growth in areas<br /><br />-using Linked in will show you as a “connecter” (big network) and a leader<br /><br />-start to look like a “player and thought leader” in your industry (relates to “association term in the career counselling field)<br /><br />-<strong>don’t</strong> market yourself as a job seeker. Instead, present yourself as a "solution builder."<br /><br />-can use these strategies of building a network, even if you are a passive job seeker<br />-join Linkedin groups and contribute to forums and discussions, using your social media profiles<br />-if using LI, view LI blog and LI answers ex: skimming answers<br /><br />c. <strong>Facebook</strong>-more information, conversational, spontaneous Traffic up to 314 % in a year<br /><br />-personal in nature<br /><br />-job searching features<br /><br />-groups that allow others to share commonalities<br /><br />Ex: military/civilian transition group; career changer group; guerrilla marketing for job hunters<br /><br />-alumni groups (get job leads or referrals) <br /><br />-recruiters want to see candidates on paper and online. Ex: FB allows hiring managers to gather extensive data. Writing style, values<br /><br />1 in 5 hiring managers conduct background checks using SM networks, esp FB<br /><br />3. <strong>Should Jobseekers focus on two or three main sites or ‘cast a wide net’</strong>?<br /><br />-depends on objectives/goals<br /><br />-casting a wide net, especially if novice might be overwhelming and intimidating; get comfort with the new technology<br /><br />-using SM is a different skill set. As one observer noted, "Social media is a slow burn." It must be caressed, refined and treated with care. "Quality relationships" take time to build.<br /><br />-penetrate the hidden job market<br /><br />-people will judge what you write about and how you present online (professional, above all)<br /><br />-generally, use multiple media<br /><br />-works best when you incorporate SM with a variety of marketing tools<br /><br />-Choose your networks carefully. Once your connections build up, the system will recommend people to connect with<br /><br />FB: over 20 apps to job search ex: indeed.com, careerbuilder, simplyhired, LI contacts, easy CV (online resume service), business cards and testimonials<br /><br />4. <strong>What advice would you give to Jobseekers and Career Builders for managing their Social Media Strategy?</strong><br /><br />-the world is about relationships. Job search is no longer local, it’s global<br /><br />-have a consistent brand<br /><br />-strive for 80/20&nbsp; (tweet or post using others' information 80% of the time and 20% of the time, concentrate on the information you wish to share). Social media etiquette is important and detractors are lurking if you breach social media etiquette!<br /><br />-strive for professionalism at all times<br /><br />-even if laid off or unemployed, talk about projects you’re working on or tell people the types of things that interest you professionally<br /><br />Ex: Facebook People will judge the company you keep on line. Recruiters are searching for candidates.<br /><br />-is viable job search tool to enhance job search or career dev’t<br /><br />-does not replace the best form of networking: in person and face-to-face experience<br /><br />(1. advisable to use the strength of the strong philosophy: If you are strong, you have opportunities open anyway. Ex: Takes money to make money. <br /><br />Knock on doors, get a lead, talk to people. Build network from others’ network <br /><br />2. <em>Carpe diem </em>(an Ancient Roman saying for "Seize the day.") Be strong by acting strong 3. Not a strategy of the weak<br /><br />Ex: A passive, electronic job search that appears as though you are "blasting" on networks is distasteful and highly ineffective if you want to achieve results.<br /><br />If you don’t follow up, on follow up, it will cold fast. Instead of waiting for an employer to call back.<br /><br />-traditional job searches are impotent and have lost currency<br /><br />-another strategy: Preminence: “Once you position yourself as a go to person in your niche, be a source of help, you will be perceived as an authority.”<br /><br />-SM is the new currency. It’s not a panacea, but a way to enhance a job search, advance one’s leadership and networking skills and seize the opportunity of standing apart from competitors (reason for the title of my ebook). If you are strong, you have opportunities open anyway. Ex: Takes money to make money. <br /><br />Knock on doors, get a lead, talk to people. Build network from others’ network <br /><br />“Engagement is the goal, SM are the tools,” Shane Gibson<br /><br />-1 superior way to find a satisfying job: Dr. Mark Granovtter, Stanford University:" The best jobs come from a weak tie network. Casual acquaintances have a completely different circle of acquaintances than you do."<br /><br />Watch for an <strong>upcoming webinar on Twitter</strong>, April 6th, 8pm EST on <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">http://www.careerealism.com/</a><br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual social media and career strategist<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br />Twitter: @ravingredhead&nbsp; and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br /><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />FB fan page: careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><br />Linkedin: <a href="http://ca/linkedin.com/melissacynthiamartin">http://ca/linkedin.com/melissacynthiamartin</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-3015483327744091561?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-90576255280945885452011-02-22T19:28:00.001-05:002011-02-24T07:01:35.041-05:00<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5C2KVB1STeU/TWRUkOVX1-I/AAAAAAAAAC8/bDkMM24m3CM/s1600/imagesCAGP1VK5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5C2KVB1STeU/TWRUkOVX1-I/AAAAAAAAAC8/bDkMM24m3CM/s1600/imagesCAGP1VK5.jpg" /></a> <br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This&nbsp;post originates from Rose King of <a href="http://www.bschool.com/">http://www.bschool.com/</a>:</div><br />Branding Gone Bad: 10 Most Ill-Advised Ads of All Time<br /><br /><br /><br />We've all seen our share of groan-inducing commercials. But there are some that cross the line into big mistakes, often costing businesses plenty in time, money, and consumer goodwill. These take the cake for the most controversial, disturbing, and ill-advised ads of all time.<br /><br />1.Quiznos Singing Rodents: The Quiznos "spongmonkeys" inspired strong opinions, most wondering how the strange creatures could make you want to eat a sandwich. Perhaps the most accurate perception was from The Modern Humorist, commenting that the gerbil-like creatures are "what you see before you die."<br /><br />2.The Lamisil Digger: First, your eyes are assaulted by a disturbing animated foot fungus. And then, this fungus promptly rips the toenail off the toe, exposing the nail bed. Then he jumps in. Disturbing on so many levels.<br /><br />3.AIDS is a Mass Murderer: Anything involving Adolf Hitler is bound to be controversial, but throwing in a deadly disease like AIDS is like throwing gasoline on a fire. HIV/AIDS organizations distanced themselves from the commercial, citing concern for people living with the disease who might feel stigmatized.<br /><br />4.Fashion Violence: Fashion ads depicting violence against women are too numerous to name all of them. Among the offenders include Calvin Klein and Dolce &amp; Gabbana for gang-rape imagery, and shoe and suit ads with dead women.<br /><br />5.Calvin Klein's Amateur Porn: Before Calvin Klein's ads suggested gang rape, they suggested pedophilia. In the 90s, CK ran ads that were made to resemble low-budget porn screen tests with young men and women, answering provocative questions from an offscreen older adult. Retailers and consumers shared their criticism loudly, and even the FBI got involved to investigate possible child pornography charges.<br /><br />6.I'd Hit It: McDonald's did not fully research their urban slang before making the ad that said: "Double Cheeseburger? I'd hit it." Nearly everyone but McDonald's understood it to mean that the new slogan advocated sex with sandwiches, and the ad lives on in parodies online.<br /><br />7.Motrin Moms: Motrin learned a powerful lesson about opinionated moms on Twitter, when baby-wearing parents took on the painkiller giant in response to an ad that belittled baby slings as a fashion accessory that might cause pain. The ads didn't last much longer than a day.<br /><br />8.7-up at Seven Months: In the 50s, Seven-Up ran an ad that suggested mothers give their babies Seven-Up instead of milk or formula. It shared information about its pure and wholesome ingredients that were supposedly good for babies, and suggested mixing milk with Seven-Up to encourage drinking.<br /><br />9.Whopper Virgins: Burger King spent millions of dollars traveling to Transylvania, Greenland, and Thailand to find hamburger illiterate people to try their Whopper in an on-the-spot comparative taste test with the Big Mac. Critics blasted Burger King, upset that the company didn't acknowledge the hunger that exists in some of the areas where they filmed, citing Thailand in particular, where 30% of people would never be able to afford a hamburger.<br /><br />10.Store Testing Coffee: Like the 7-Up ad, there are some vintage ads that would never fly today, like Chase &amp; Sanborn's ad, which depicts a man spanking his wife for not store testing for fresher coffee would be one of them. This is one among many sexist vintage ads that most companies would probably prefer the public to forget. <br /><br />Thanks Rose King for being a guest on my blog.<br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media strategist</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Twitter:@ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Now <strong>accepting NEW clients</strong> for <strong>CUSTOMIZED Facebook fan pages</strong>.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="mailto:mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com">mmartin@careercoachingbyphone.com</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-9057625528094588545?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-15586117648353219322011-02-19T13:44:00.001-05:002011-02-19T13:45:41.903-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOcIBpSWcag/TWAO_Q2dn5I/AAAAAAAAACs/Wc1t51yDV9s/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOcIBpSWcag/TWAO_Q2dn5I/AAAAAAAAACs/Wc1t51yDV9s/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>A friend and I were chatting about how many people miss out on lost opportunities in a job search.<br />Admittedly, we are both extroverts, social and outgoing, as far as personality styles. <br /><br />Speaking of personalities, Hippocrates (yes, I often harken back to Ancient Greek or Roman times) identified four personality types:<br /><br />1. <strong>Perfecto</strong>r (43% of the population)<br />These personalities are "organized detailers who value responsibility and conformity."<br /><br />2.<strong> Harmonizer</strong> (12% of the population)<br />These personalities are "nurturing communicators who value harmony and friendship."<br /><br />3. <strong>Enforcer (</strong>12% of the population)<br />These are "goal-oriented analyzers who value competency and logic."<br /><br />4. <strong>Socialize</strong>r (33% of the population)<br />Thse are "spontaneous, out-of-the-box thinkers who value freedom and flexiblity."<br /><br />Which one are you?<br /><br />My friend and I, are unequivocally, in the last category.<br /><br />How can personalities help your job search?<br />By identifying your unique strengths and pertinent information that will help you make effective career decisions.<br /><br />Enforcers, and perfectors, to a certain extent, will be less likely to see the value in asking for help (particularly on the telephone) or making cold calls.<br /><br />The major reason why people resist making cold calls refers to one commanlity about humans: we dislike rejection. There's little solace in knowing that rejection is part of a job search, but job seekers must acknowledge this.<br /><br />Now the good news... By continuing to ask for help from others and by making cold calls, rejections (plural!) get you closer to acceptance by an employer to attend an interviewer.<br /><br />A quick sales lesson: No= not right now<br /><br />If you are making a cold call (in person or by phone), remember that you will probably hear 99% of the time," We're not accepting resumes" or "We're not hiring."&nbsp; Not right NOW. Employers' needs change as fast as technology, especially as far as hiring needs are concerned.<br /><br />If you are an introvert and are still loathe to asking for help or making contact to a stranger, via email, in person or by phone, think of how you seek out information.<br /><br />When I have had introverted clients who misunderstand the "<strong>hidden job market</strong>" and the necessity to "name drop" and to follow-up with employers, I use the "restaurant analogy."<br /><br />If you and a significant other wanted to dine at a Chinese restaurant (it's the Chinese New Year-the year of the tiger right now!), how would you get the information? Ask a friend for a recommendation of a good Chinese restaurant!<br /><br />Remember a fact about hiring: <strong>employers hire based on referral, recommendation and reputation</strong>.<br /><br />Would you go to a restauarant&nbsp; that lacked these things?<br />The same with employers who want to hire. They want to protect their investment, and get a return on investment.<br /><br />Back to asking for help. Here's a proven technique that gets results:<br />Once you do your elevator pitch on the phone (up to 54 words, according to <strong>recruiting expert David Perry</strong>), ask something like" Now that you know my skills, experience and talents (the person's name), if you were in my shoes, who ELSE would you be calling?" Try to get 2-3 names before hanging up or emailing a contact.<br /><br />My friend referred to a phrase in the Bible that says "the meek don't inherit the earth."<br /><br />Step out of your comfort zone. Ask for help. Make cold calls. The more rejection (NO's), the closer you are to YES (acceptance).<br /><br />My thanks to <strong>David Dean</strong>, certified management consultant, <strong>David Dean Management</strong>, of Brockville, Ontario Canada, for providing the information on personalities.<br /><br />Use the finest characteristics of your personality to work in your favour.<br /><br />"Fortune favours the bold," Virgil, Ancient Roman writer<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media strategist<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><br /><br /><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1558611764835321932?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-22296740104523944992011-02-18T21:44:00.001-05:002011-02-24T07:02:25.810-05:00<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fxtkjZygU0M/TV8ua8BZBmI/AAAAAAAAACk/LBDnIWhk7dE/s1600/imagesCAADIFPU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fxtkjZygU0M/TV8ua8BZBmI/AAAAAAAAACk/LBDnIWhk7dE/s1600/imagesCAADIFPU.jpg" /></a></div><br />Recently, I came upon a book on networking called <u>The Frog and Prince</u>: <u>Networking for business and life</u> by Rezac and Donahue; the book's&nbsp;title and content gave me pause.<br /><br /><strong>N= never leave home</strong><br />This is SO vital for job seekers. Time and time again, when I have asked clients/job seekers about their weekly job search activity, invariably, they rely exclusively on electronic means to apply for jobs. STOP relying on this<u> ineffective strategy</u>. You MUST connect with people to get you closer to your goal (following up with a contact, getting an interview, etc). Sure, it is so convenient to stay in your comfort zone and not leave your domestic zone. At the very least, arrange at least one job search activity daily that involves contact with others. <br /><br /><strong>T=travel in pairs</strong><br />Especially for those who are shy, introverted, disconnected, etc. When networking, call up a friend or acquaintance who may be experiencing job loss (perhaps someone you met recently at an event, volunteering or job club). Find&nbsp; an "accountability partner," as social media/career expert Keith Keller mentions in one of his podcasts (careersuccessradio.org). Your confidence will see a boost straight away! And never forget that potential employers are evaluating the company you keep, so if you are connected with others online, make sure that their reputation is intact and credible. Potential employers are increasingly evaluating the company you keep, on and off line!<br /><br /><strong>W=working the pond</strong><br />Push the envelope. If you have trouble with working your contact, ask your trusted contacts how THEY got their job or started their business. I GUARANTEE it was not as a result of inactivity. This means activity related to selling yourself as a product and making a transition from job seeker to SOLUTION BUILDER. The difference is immense. Go on community websites to check out events (remember, weak links are invaluable in gathering contacts) or go online to a site like <a href="http://www.meetup.com/">http://www.meetup.com/</a><br />to connect with others in your industry. Created a linkedin.com (75 million users and growing), and check out groups and comment on forum links to gain knowledge. You will generate valuable information that will propel your job search. The social media web site <a href="http://www.facebook.com/">http://www.facebook.com/</a>&nbsp;is useful for connecting with people you have not connected with. There is a feature on Facebook which allows you to connect with likeminded people who share your interests, expertise, etc.<br /><br /><strong>O=opportunity is everywhere</strong><br />See the latter point when I mentioned "weak links." The people you would LEAST expect may be the quintessential missing piece of the puzzle.&nbsp; Opportunity is omnipresent: from hockey rinks, to soccer fields, to volunteering, to temporary employment. Don't leave a stone unturned. Focus on connections that will help you achieve your goal (ie gainful employment, self-employment, etc). <br /><strong>R=repeat</strong><br />Keep your momentum going. Going from unemployment to employment may not happen overnight, but it is essential to track your successes and milestones. In other words, create a tracking system to focus on what is going WELL in your job search, not what is implicity unsuccessful (i.e. an exclusively electronic job search).<br /><strong>K=keep it going</strong><br />Successful people in history have invested in activity have witnessed success after a series of setbacks, failures, etc.&nbsp; Similar to the last point, evaluate what needs to be improved in your job search. Refocus and then charge on! Take risks. The reality of risks gets you closer to success. To find out the value of risks, check out my article," Taking risks: what the ancient Romans can teach us" on <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">http://www.careerealism.com/</a> or <a href="http://www.secretsofthejobhunt.com/">http://www.secretsofthejobhunt.com/</a><br /><br />Until the next time!<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, <strong>How to use social media in your job search</strong>, <a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Please join me Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphonecom<br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2229674010452394499?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-90151919337685221042011-02-17T20:30:00.001-05:002011-02-17T20:30:05.570-05:00<div class="pp_items"><div class="pp_item" align="left"><p>Join Melissa C. Martin, approved career expert from careerealism.com for a webinar on Twitter tools to use for your job search<br />April 6 8pm EST</p></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-9015191933768522104?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-19840028485160852172011-01-20T19:28:00.006-05:002011-01-20T19:33:58.350-05:00<div>Hi job seekers,<br /><br />Here is an actual "sales letter" (Google Jimmy Sweeney) that led one of my clients to attend an interview with Best Buy, a North American retailer specializing in electronics.<br />September -------2010<br /><br />Best Buy<br /><br />---------Gardiners Road<br />Kingston, ON<br /><br />Dear__________:<br /><br />Could your company use an experienced <strong>sales person with a passion</strong> for electronics? <br /><br />Let me show you my qualifications:<br /><br />Your Requirements&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; My Qualifications<br /><br />1. responsible, detail- oriented, organized&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Top ratings from current/former supervisors with strong problem solving skills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I am a natural negotiator <br /><br />2. naturally curious and have a passion for&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brand name awareness of Best Buy products<br />electronics&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />3. thrive on building long term relationships with&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As a talented bargain hunter, sourced the most <br />consumers who are passionate about&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; reasonable deals to save money<br />technology<br />Please call me for an interview at 613-000-0000 or you may reach me on my cell at 613-000-0000. You won’t regret it!<br /><br />(name) Savvy job seeker<br /><br /><em>*P.S. During an interview, I will tell you how I won a customer service award at a busy fast food location. </em><br /><em>PPS. My former supervisor once called me “Speedy Gonzales” for doing things fast!</em><br /><br />*According to <strong>Jimmy Sweeney</strong>, the PS in a letter is the most 2nd read part!<br /><br />Unconventional? Yes. Short? Yes.<br />What DO you think? <br />Tell me what cover letters have WORKED for you in the past.<br /><br />Melissa Martin<br />Bilingual career/social media specialist<br />ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoahingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoahingbyphone.com/</a><br />Follow me on Twitter: @ravingredhead&nbsp; <br />@melissacmartin (bilingual)<br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />Skype: melissacynthiamartin<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1984002848516085217?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-34868733878605041212011-01-18T21:44:00.001-05:002011-01-18T21:46:19.741-05:00<div>January 18, 2011<br /><br />I was delighted to hear positive feedback from Rose King, who works at <a href="http://www.bschool.com/">http://www.bschool.com/</a><br />She requested that webinar careercoaching publish the following valuable content.<br /><br />If you are an aspiring or existing small business owner, enjoy this link:<br /><br />50 Excellent Lectures for the Small Business Owner" <br /><a href="http://www.bschool.com/blog/2011/50-excellent-lectures-for-the-small-business-owner/">http://www.bschool.com/blog/2011/50-excellent-lectures-for-the-small-business-owner/</a> <br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-3486873387860504121?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-26427535760829139572011-01-08T14:27:00.001-05:002011-01-08T14:27:53.409-05:00<div>When I was watching&nbsp;yesterday`s Today show (<a href="http://www.todayshow.com/">http://www.todayshow.com/</a>), Jean Shatsky featured the fastest growing jobs in 2011 in the U.S. (some also apply to Canada):<br />1. nurse<br />2. physiotherapist<br />3. pharmacist<br />4. physician<br />5. computer analyst<br />6. software engineer<br />7. biomedical and environmental engineer<br />8. accountant and financial advisor<br />9. veterinarian<br />10.lawyer, paralegal and legal analyst<br /><br />Shatsky`s advice was to seize the opportunity to train, retrain or go back to school. Competition is still fierce in the troubled job market.<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media specialist<br />ebook author,<strong><u> How to use social media in your job search</u></strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2642753576082913957?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-8527504795231666442010-12-29T20:57:00.001-05:002010-12-30T20:14:18.408-05:00<div>It is so easy for an endless array of negative emotions to make you feel vulnernable in your job search. Are you experiencing more negativity in your job search right now? I have been reading two books written by Marsha Linehan, Ph D, University of Washington. She has sound advice to stay out of "an emotion mind," rather than a reasoned mind. In this context, we will apply her advice to a (negative) job search:<br />Dr. Linehan's acronym is simple to remember: <strong>PLEASE MASTER</strong>.<br /><br />Physical (PL)= treat any physical ailments or maladies as best you can while you are job searching.<br /><br />-eat (E) a balanced diet. Resist the temptation to consume a lot of salt, sugar and processed foods. <br /><br />-avoid mood altering (MA) substances such as nicotine, drugs and alcohol, if at all possible.<br /><br />-balance your sleep (S) with your day. Rest is vital, especially with an activity that robs your energy like a job search.<br />-get exercise (E) -at least 20 minutes of cardio a day<br />-build MASTERy. (sic) Do one thing T) &nbsp;daily to make yourself feel competent and in control. This mastery will build your confidence.<br /><br />Go build your own success!<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career and social media specialist and ebook author, <u><strong>How to use social media in</strong></u> <strong><u>your job search</u></strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-852750479523166644?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-29308949261818809632010-12-29T20:42:00.000-05:002010-12-29T20:42:36.070-05:00<div>2010 is drawing to a close. Contrary to popular belief, this is a SMART time of the year to be on the job hunt. Just as there's less traffic on the road because of the holidays, so is there less competition amongst job seekers. It is wise to nurture contacts and make new ones for the upcoming year, if you haven't already done so.<br /><br />Some quick tips on <strong>how to stay engaged and motivated in your job search</strong>:<br /><br />-<strong>celebrate the small steps</strong> you have taken in your job search. For example, if you have decided to push the computer chair away and do fewer online job applications, bully for you! Online job postings only yield a 1-3% success rate.<br /><br />-<strong>celebrate small victories</strong>. For instance, if you have been called for an interview for the first time in a month, that's one more interview invitation than you had last month. Small victories can lead to big victories in the long run. Track your results. The electronic job tracker, <a href="http://www.jibberjobber.com/">http://www.jibberjobber.com/</a> is a good start to do just that.<br /><br />-arrange some <strong>informational interviews</strong>. Sometimes the most informal meetings give you rich results. And the more informational interviews you have with prospects, the more likely you will feel a sense of hope and energy, two things you really need in a stalled job search.<br /><br />-while unemployment is high,&nbsp; <strong>focus on what is within your control</strong>. You cannot control the number of hires an employer makes, but you can control the number of contacts that you have made in your job search.<br /><br /><em>Fortune favours the bold</em>, Virgil, ancient Roman writer<br /><strong>Melissa Martin</strong>, bilingual career and social media specialist and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2930894926181880963?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-60718424816810992292010-12-23T20:38:00.002-05:002010-12-23T20:40:24.487-05:00<div>Hi job seekers,<br />Once again, I've found some simple tips for job interview preparation. These tips are particularly relevant to those who are shy, experience social anxiety or have performance anxiety. My source comes from mental health specialists. The information is invaluable for all job seekers:<br /><br />1. <strong>Apply for a volunteer position</strong>. Research demonstrates that you will boost your mood and self-esteem by simply giving back to the community or making a difference to a social organization that aligns with your values. Even if you are under stringent conditions, such as conducting an "active" job search to prove to employment insurance representatives, a few hours a week in volunteerism will pay dividends. The potential rewards are meeting new contacts, penetrating the hidden job market and honing your skills. You could even learn new skills to bring to a new job.<br /><br />2. <strong>Practise interviewing</strong> with friends and family. The more familiar you are with the format of an interview which is often uncomfortable and sometimes an artificial experience, the more you will improve your job interview performance.<br /><br />3. <strong>Apply for jobs that disinterest you</strong>.....temporarily!<br />By taking this approach, you can get familiar with hiring criteria, such as keywords, and test the waters about your existing skills and qualifications. If you do have at least 50% of the job criteria, review your job targets and preferences, such as potential employers and positions, to find a good match. Apply for at least one job that disinterests you, regardless of whether you receive a response. The experience will be worthwhile.<br /><br />4. <strong>Apply for jobs that interest you</strong>. See the previous point, and&nbsp;aim to have at least 75% of the job criteria. Keep in mind that job ads are often an employer's wish list. The employer is not always successful in getting the "perfectly qualified" or quintessential candidate.<br /><br />Make your own fortune!<br />Melissa Martin, <strong>bilingual career and social media specialist</strong><br />Ebook author of <u>How to use social media in your job search</u><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6071842481681099229?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-61976481435020528432010-12-13T20:59:00.000-05:002010-12-13T20:59:32.930-05:00<div>I have been fortunate to share my passions-teaching and counselling. A few years back, I taught a human resources course at a military base. One of the topics was negotiation. We use negotiation daily in our lives to achieve our goals and objectives. Negotiation is particularly important during a <strong>job interview</strong>.<br /><br />Here are 3 stages in negotiating (and it doesn't stop with job interviews):<br /><br />1. <strong>Establish criteria</strong> so that the employer and you, the job candidate, understand each other's points of view and how far the negotiating card stretches. Is it 4 weeks of vacation? Company shares? Flex time? Opportunities to work at home? Earn a pay raise after a successful 6 month probationary period?<br /><br />2. <strong>Get information about the employer's side of things</strong>; you can never know too much. Find out just how much the company is really willing to negotiate. Remember, you are negotiating the chance to be hired, based on your USP's (unique selling points). Demonstrate value to the employer. Use your contacts-perhaps an insider from the company about previous hires or hiring practices. Get acquainted with the hiring criteria and EXCEED their hiring expectations by offering your talents and qualifications.<br /><br />3. <strong>Reach for some sort of compromise</strong>; try to meet the employer on some common ground. It will ultimately lead to a WIN-WIN situation.&nbsp; For example, you could produce a bargaining chip like," If you hire me as your successful candidate, in 3 months, I will produce......"<br /><br />Above all, negotiating is a TWO way affair.<br /><br />Still uncomfortable about negotiating?<br />Rate yourself on the following qualities you currently possess and then aim to improve at least one or two of them:<br />a. Understanding the "two-way street" aspect of negotiating<br />b. Desire to acquire negotiating skills<br />c. Knowing the principles and gambits of effective negotiating<br />d. Willingness to practise<br />e. Desire to create a Win-Win situations.<br /><br />Need help with negotiating your next job offer? Call me at 1-877-621-3141<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach/social media specialist and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6197648143502052843?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-9513021073174792222010-12-12T18:51:00.000-05:002010-12-12T18:51:44.349-05:00<div>P.L.A.N” YOUR NEXT CAREER CHANGE: <br /><br /><br />Join Annemarie Cross and Keith Keller as they interview a number of career specialists, including Maggie Mistal and<strong> Melissa Martin</strong> on key strategies that can support you in your career change.(download mp3)<br /><br /><br />Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.<br /><br />Keith will also share his 4-step career change process: The “P.L.A.N” <br /><br />&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/agi7mP">http://bit.ly/agi7mP</a><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-951302107317479222?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-8955049218566931552010-12-07T21:26:00.000-05:002010-12-07T21:26:24.851-05:00<div><br />Tony Deblauwe, Founder, HR4Change held a virtual interview with me today on using social media.<br /><br />I am sharing the 7 questions with you:<br /><br />1. You talk about the power of using contacts – what do you mean by that?<br /><br />Leveraging contacts is quintessential in the job search. In my ebook, I emphasize the power of "weak ties" which often form the basis of the best source of contacts and ultimately job leads. Contacts are necessary online and offline for a successful job search; they are the key to getting the "inside" track about company and employment information. The more contacts we have, the closer we tap into that sometimes elusive hidden job market, which is typically 70-85% in normal, economic times, and up to 90% in these troubled times.<br /><br />Despite the allure of social media and the temptation to confine a job search to an exclusively electronic means, contacts represent human communication and relationship building (to quote a skill I saw listed in a job listing for a bank today). Regardless of whether the contact orginated online, inevitably, it will turn into an offline, face-to-face contact. People hire other people, not computers!<br /><br />2. What’s the best method for identifying corporate “insiders”? The best method is to "think like a robber and go through the back door" by doing some real sleuthing. First and foremost, is the opportunity to elicit and solicit human contact. If that isn't possible, tap into web sites which can provide vital information for you, such as linkedin.com, jigsaw.com (the free company data download is a goldmine), and hoovers.com and zoominfo.com for company insider information.<br /><br />3. How can someone address “social media fatigue” when building their online brand?<br /><br />Primarily, social media does not guarantee immediate employment. It is neither a panacea nor a "cure" to replace human relationship building. Just as many career coaches and professionals caution job seekers about excessively searching online, the same applies to social networking. "Social media" fatigue can occur easily because of false expectations about what social media does. It is a viable job search tool, not a remedy or instant care for abandoning other successfuly job search techniques, such as cold calling, prospecting for job opportunities and using the telephone (gasp!) to gather leads.<br /><br />Fatigue can also occur because social media is something of a sensation in job searching at the moment. Mark my words, another trend will appear! Lastly, fatigue can occur if someone uses social media to a saturation point. All the more reason to set up "Google alerts" to see what is being communicated about you or to calculate your online identity (scoped out by hiring managers and recruiters).<br /><br />In the book, I allude to how one establish a health online identity, as opposed to a negative one, which is difficult to erase from cyberspace and from potential employers' memories!<br /><br />4. What alternatives do people have to building their online brand without using a blog, Facebook or Twitter?<br /><br />Visual alternatives are important more than ever. Audio bites, once a swansong in branding, have been eclipsed by videos. Consumers are hungry for visual information, confirming why YouTube's popularity is off the radar screen. A Canadian TV channel reported this morning that Scottish singing sensation Susan Boyle received 120,00,00 views on YouTube this year!<br /><br />Another alternative are visual resume sites (I have a comprehensive list of the major and minor players), PURL's, which are personal URL's that job seekers can create to be noticed by employers. and virtual business cards (mine is http://melissamartin.businesscard2.com<br /><br />5. How is YouTube used for job search?<br /><br />YouTube has multiple roles in a job search:<br /><br />a. watch what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for in job candidates<br /><br />b. insider information on preparing for interviews, preparing a personal brand and accessing outstanding, innovative job search information<br /><br />c. learning ideas about how other people got hired or promoted<br /><br />d. creating a personal brand to entice potential employers<br /><br />e. creating videos to establish online credibility and prove expertise<br /><br />f. creating videos to demonstrate to employers that you are technologically savvy and current<br /><br />6. What key trends do you emerging with social media and personal branding?<br /><br />Recruiting trends. Linkedin.com, for example, contains articles about this trend. Social media is being embraced by decision makers and hiring managers because advertising revenues (particularly daily newspapers) are eroding at an alarming rate.<br /><br />Growth in accessing job search information on IPhones, cell phones and blackberries.<br /><br />Personal branding has alway been visible in North America since the 19th century in one shape or form. Numerous companies have used personal branding to sell their products and services. (On the front page of my web site, there's an audio clip on how one major American donut chain has something in common with conducting a successful job search. And yes, it involves personal branding).<br /><br />I also see the emergence of personal branding in the academic world.<br /><br />In North America, we accept instant gratification to rule our society. Positive personal branding solidifies and quantifies a job seeker's profile. It "clinches" the sale of a job candidate, in a current economy where 1 out of 5 Americans are jobless. (Today I learned a new term called "Q6" to reflect the collective number of everyone who is truly unemployed, not merely the government unemployment statistics we receive regularly).<br /><br />7. Where can people learn more about you and purchase your ebook?<br /><br />Please visit my web site at www.careercoachingbyphone.com or <strong>follow me on twitter.com/ravingredhead</strong> (Well, being a real redhead is a personal brand of sorts!) My ebook offers essential insight for job seekers on how to leverage social media in a job search, tap into the hidden job market and learn some proven success strategies).<br /><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphone.com<br />I am also an approved job search expert on www.careerealism.com <br />To get hired faster, visit me on www.careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><br /><br />Catch me LIVE in January at the Cannexus conference, <a href="http://www.cannexus.ca/">http://www.cannexus.ca/</a><br /><br />Melissa Martin, Bilingual career coach/social media specialist<br />Now available! Melissa's new ebook, How to job search using social media<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-895504921856693155?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-11076728678090660172010-11-24T16:28:00.002-05:002010-11-24T16:35:49.071-05:00<div>Back in 1998, Charles A. Rapp wrote a book called <strong><u>The strengths model.</u></strong> Although the target audience of the book was for individuals recovering from mental illness who wish to pursue employment, the content of&nbsp; Rapp's book still applies to an effective, contemporary&nbsp;job search.<br /><br />No doubt you have heard of <strong>willpower</strong>. It is simply defined as the belief that you have the capacity to do something. (Remember the children's book with the choo-choo train? It has been a few decades since that book came out, but I can still recall the refrain of that train:" I think I can, I think I can, I think I can...")<br /><br />Rapp refers to a distinguishing feature that job seekers can add to their "tool box" of resources. It's called <strong>"waypower</strong>." Rapp summed up waypower as "mental plans or roadmaps that guide hopeful thought." He is talking about your OWN mental beliefs, attitudes and thoughts. For example, if you have an employment target, and devise a plan in your head, you will likely achieve your goals. How can you apply waypower to your job search?&nbsp;You might incorporate such things as mental&nbsp;visualization and&nbsp;positive self-talk in your job search. Visualize an upcoming interview, talk yourself into picking up the <u>phone off hours</u> to leave a voicemail message with an employer, proposing a solution to their company or business' problems. <br /><br />The other component of waypower is having hope. According to Charles Rapp, having hope will decrease burnout, such as being reactive in a job search, which is&nbsp;a scattered and erratic in nature.&nbsp;Instead of being reactive, applying hope will help you achieve&nbsp;small goals and a target on which to focus. Having a sense of hope, Rapp says will also promote superior coping skills. This skill set is a life skill, not just an employability skill, which&nbsp;you can continually improve.<br /><br />I'll close with one last analogy. When you are focusing on a goal, sometimes it's not enough to have willpower. For example, if you want to lose weight, you must combine willpower with other things to achieve success. In this case, combining willpower with waypower looks something like this:<br /><br />willpower= I've got what it takes<br />waypower= I've got a mental roadmap to get me to my destination (new job or new career)<br /><br />Cheers to your success!<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career specialist<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a> and ebook author, <strong><u>How to use social media in your job search</u></strong><br />Follow me on Facebook: melissaycnthiamartin<br />Twitter: @ravingredhead<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1107672867809066017?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-48876763080026317342010-11-14T21:37:00.001-05:002010-11-14T21:39:35.860-05:00<div>If you are just ending an interview, NEVER leave without asking some questions. Interviewees are evaluating how much you want to work for them and what kind of confidence you project.<br /><br />Recently, I have been hearing more about individuals taking a survival job to make ends meet. This is undestandable if all of your options appear to be running out, and above all, if your employment insurance coverage is being depleted. Let's face it, the competition is fierce out there.<br /><br />When it comes time for the employer to ask if you have any questions, tell him/her what you would accomplish in the first 90 days on the job. What's a good acronym to "seal the deal" before your interview concludes? <strong>TQM</strong>.<br /><br />TQM stands for <strong>total quality management</strong>.&nbsp; It is a way to increase customer satisfaction by boosting quality. One of the objectives of TQM, in the grand scheme of things, no matter what industry to which you are applying is the idea of continuous improvement of quality.<br /><br />How can you use TQM in the middle of the interview? Be creative. You say something like, "In my first 90 days, I would apply TQM to your company, which means I would strive to provide continuous improvement to your clients or customers. That means winning hearts and minds in a company and that translates into happy customers, which means possible repeat customers."<br /><br />You don't have to know a great deal to add TQM in your job interview plan.<br /><br />What have you got to lose?<br />"Fortune favours the bold," as one famous ancient Roman poet said.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career specialist and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search, <a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Follow me on Twitter: @ravingredhead<br />Facebook: careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4887676308002631734?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-18717354066910684912010-11-08T21:49:00.000-05:002010-11-08T21:49:51.217-05:00<div>Recently, I attended a webinar from the <u>United States Psycho Rehabilitation Association</u> (USPRA) on "providing good employment services during tough economic times." Among the tidbits of information were the "<strong>top 10 ways to effectively job search during an economic downturn</strong>." Job seekers take note! My comments and suggestions follow:<br /><br />1. <strong>Stay organized</strong>-Targets and goals are essential in achieving success. Unless you have a plan (preferably a 30 day one), your results will be disappointing. You can`t score if you don`t shoot toward the target.<br /><br />2. <strong>Strike when the iron his hot</strong>-When you hear of an opportunity, take advantage of it. In sales, we call this "hot leads." If you have been given information from a contact or a "weak link," (often a person who APPEARS like he or she&nbsp;may not help your job search, but one who has information that may turn into a lead), don't wait! The competition is fierce out there.<br /><br />3.<strong>Use community resources</strong>- Put away your pride. If you need to access resources because you haven`t been succeeding, join a job club, or visit a local job centre.&nbsp; Communities are now global now. Social media has been the common thread to unite us around the world.&nbsp;Consider online resources that know no boundaries. I recommend the <a href="http://www.careerealismclub.com/">http://www.careerealismclub.com/</a> For a modest fee, you can access outstanding webinars, online forums and free advice from career experts (I am one of the approved experts on <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">http://www.careerealism.com/</a>). Other recommended resources are <a href="http://www.secretsofthejobhunt.com/">http://www.secretsofthejobhunt.com/</a> (yes, my articles are there!) and <a href="http://www.careercommuniqueradio.com/">http://www.careercommuniqueradio.com/</a>, which is moderated by my Australian counterparts, <strong>Keith Keller</strong> and <strong>Annemarie Cross</strong>.&nbsp;Admittedly, in&nbsp; North Amercian culture, there still is a stigma about asking for help. Get help no matter what! It can make the difference between having a short or long job search.<br /><br />4. <strong>Be prepared-</strong>Have&nbsp;resumes with you that you can leave&nbsp;with employers. Don`t leave home without resources. When the phone rings, make sure you sound professional. <br /><br />5. <strong>Network</strong>-See point 2. The hidden job market involves networking. Up to 80% of the jobs are available through the `hidden job market.` Employers prefer to hire someone they trust through referrals, reputation or recommendations.<br /><br />6. <strong>Expand your job search criteria- </strong>Deciding on your target employer is the 1st step to an effective job search. Consider other possibilities or alternatives if your first choice isn`t possible or available at this moment.<br /><br /><strong>7.&nbsp; Increase your marketability-</strong>Develop your personal brand on and off line. You will establish credibility and presence by considering your USP (unique selling points). Set up your social media accounts. Develop expertise in your area and then blog&nbsp;about it. Comment on others`articles with your personal brand and join online forums and groups like Linkedin groups or Linked in `questions and answers.`<br /><br />8.&nbsp;<strong> Stay upbeat-</strong>Evaluate your results regularly and change your tactics if you are not getting any worthy results.<br /><br /><strong>9.&nbsp; Increase your follow up with employers-</strong>Don`t wait by the phone expecting response from employers. Hiring is taking longer now. Allow a grace period for an employer to receive your application and then follow up gently either by email or better still, in a voicemail, with a viable reason WHY they should call your back. Again, think of your USP. <br /><br /><strong>10. Don`t give up-</strong>Job searching is a numbers game, like it or not. Unemployment is temporary. Your efforts will pay off in dividends if you have a job search that resembles a failsafe, marketing campaign.<br /><br />Conquer and divide in your job search!<br /><br />If you need an extra boost in your job search, email me at <a href="mailto:teacher10@hotmail.com">teacher10@hotmail.com</a> and I will send you a <strong>FREE copy of my latest ebook</strong>: <u>Turbo charge your job search: 16+ sizzling tips to be irresistible to employers. </u><br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career specialist and ebook author, <strong><u>How to use social media in your job search</u></strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Follow me on Twitter: <u><span style="color: #0066cc;">@ravingredhead</span></u><br /><span style="color: #0066cc;">Facebook: melissacynthiamartin</span><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1871735406691068491?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-46033523517128903092010-11-07T19:04:00.001-05:002010-11-07T19:06:34.176-05:00<div>As a fitness enthusiast&nbsp;(mentally and physically), I subscribe to <strong>Prevention magazine</strong> (<a href="http://www.prevention.com/">http://www.prevention.com/</a>) and came across this "nugget" that can help you, if you are experiencing difficulty with&nbsp;your job search. The nugget is something that you can do in ONE second to <strong>give you an instant mood</strong> lift. <br /><br />Richard Petty, a psychologist and author of a study at Ohio State University, asked participants to rate their skills in relation to&nbsp;finding job opportunities. The answer may seem over the top, but simple. Those who were searching for job opportunities decided to use proper posture and felt more secure in their abilities&nbsp;than those who were "slumped over." &nbsp;Petty discovered that the simple activity of sitting upright had a direct relation to feeling confident.<br /><br />What have you got to lose if you are job searching?&nbsp;&nbsp; As a former radio&nbsp;broadcaster, I actually recommend that just by standing, you will SOUND more confident. Try this&nbsp;when you are contacting or leaving a message with a a potential employer.&nbsp; You will notice a difference! You WILL&nbsp;sound more confident , even if you are shy, and a potential employer will notice the difference in how you project your voice!<br /><br />Melissa Martin,<strong> bilingual career specialist</strong> and ebook author, <u>How to use social media in your job</u> <u>search</u><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Follow me on <strong>Facebook</strong>: melissacynthiamartin<br /><strong>FB fan page</strong>: careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><strong>Twitter</strong>: @ravingredhead<br />Catch Melissa LIVE at the cannexus conference in January 2011, <a href="http://www.cannexus.ca/">http://www.cannexus.ca/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4603352351712890309?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-21306953392192619902010-11-04T21:48:00.005-04:002010-11-05T13:27:56.952-04:00<div>I continue to digest Charles Rapp's book, <u>The strengths model: case management&nbsp; with people suffering from severe, persistent mental illness.</u>&nbsp; The content definitely applies to job seekers. Here's why:<br /><br />Job seekers often start their job search without a calculated plan. The bold risk takers may decide to embark on a job search with guns blazing, but burn out quickly. Others, may start out their job search with a blindfold. Let's explore why goals fail, adapted from content that is in Charles' book:<br /><br />1.&nbsp; <strong>aspirations</strong><br />In order to achieve your job search or career goals, you must take ownership of your goal. No one else should share this responsibility. Just you alone. What often happens (and I can base this on 13 years of experience with job seekers), is that "others" in our social network, who may have the best of intentions, often derail our decisions and outcomes. For example, parents, spouses and even employers, who may place too lofty a goal on the employee's back. <br /><br />Another reason that relates to career aspirations is a goal that is too vague. For example, if someone asks you, "Just what IS your goal?" an unsuccessful job seeker may reply," I want a job."&nbsp; Or here's the familiar&nbsp;refrain, "I'll take anything." &nbsp;Now would you&nbsp;take a holiday without an itinerary (essentially going on a trip without planning)? I doubt it.<br /><br />Let's get back to those so-called supports, such as parents and spouses, who may wish you to pursue what THEY think is a good match for your career aspirations. This is especially prevalent if&nbsp;parents are high achieving and they expect the same levels of achievement for their children. For example, "Your mother was a ____(profession), so you pursue the same profession." <br /><br />2. <strong>goals imposed by others</strong><br /><br />To go one step further from the last point, career professionals themselves may impose their goals on job seekers. This can be to the detriment of the job seeker, who doesn't take the time to digest what goals may be achievable or realistic. For example, a career professional may say, "This job seeker/client needs to improve his/her socialization skills." Excuse me? Is that language too far reaching for the job seeker? Perhaps so.<br /><br />3. <strong>competencies</strong><br />Again, others' influences may be sabotaging a job seeker who is contemplating a goal. For example, there may be a mismatch between the job seeker's goal and information or skills that he/she needs. Let's say that you're content with staying in the same employment sector, but others may have too grandiose goals for you. Do some self-reflection.<br /><br />4. <strong>confidence</strong><br />Generally, the longer a job seeker is unemployed, the less confidence he/she has. Currently, the average period of unemployment in the U.S. is 33 weeks. While one is visibly&nbsp;absent from the workforce,&nbsp;quite often confidence starts to wane.&nbsp;In other words, the job seeker may lose confidence in taking the "first step," which is crucial to moving forward in a successful job search.&nbsp; Negative self-talk starts to build, such as self-defeating phrases like," I'm too old" or "No employer will hire me after being out of work for 15 weeks."&nbsp; Negative talk breeds negative behaviour unless it is checked at the door. All the more reason to establish small steps to achieve a goal. For example, get out of the house (imperative to lift one's spirits in isolation) and do one activity. Sign up for a free course at the local job centre or offer to volunteer for a few hours a week to boost your confidence.<br /><br />5. <strong>environment</strong><br />This is otherwise known as your support system or social network.&nbsp; If you aren't receiving support from precious people in your life (namely your warm contacts, such as family or friends), find your own support network. Join a job club or offline&nbsp;(research has proven that job seekers succeed in their job search exponentially with the support of others, even if they are strangers). Plain and simple, find your own cheerleaders if you can't find them at home.<br /><br />Your solutions to achieving goals?<br />1. Start setting goals that are immediate and concrete. Better yet, use the SMART goal method:<br />specific (goals), measurable, attainable, realistic (can you stick to the goal) and timely (every goal must have a timeline to motivate you).<br />2. Goal setting must be collaborative.<br />3. Get resources (online and offline) from people and technology.<br />4. Establish target dates for your goals.<br />5. Revisit your goals after 30 days (ever notice how diets have a very tight timeline)?<br /><br />Don't wait ANOTHER minute for a stalled job search to defeat you! Get&nbsp;help with setting your own goals. Book an appointment online with a credentialed career professional. For your consultation, drop me a line at <a href="mailto:teacher10@hotmail.com">teacher10@hotmail.com</a><br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career expert and ebook author, How to find a job using social media<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br />PS Send me an email on this blog and I will send you a FREE copy of my latest ebook, <u>Turbo charge your job search: 16+ tips to be irresistible to employers</u><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2130695339219261990?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-19379718940941331922010-11-03T20:44:00.001-04:002010-11-03T20:49:06.201-04:00<div>Hi job seekers,<br />The latest book I am reading is <u>The strengths model</u>&nbsp; by Charles A. Rapp (Oxford University Press, 1998). Although the book is targeted toward career professionals who assist individuals with a mental illness, Charles' book has many "nuggets" that contain a universal message.<br /><br />Here's the one thing that Charles observes about <strong>successful people</strong> and it has a direct bearing on successful job searches:<br />"People who are successful in living have at least one <strong>goal</strong>..."<br /><br />Undeniably true! Did you know that <u>only 3% of adults write down their goals</u>?<br /><br />This is so relevant to a successful job search.<br /><br />I will add to Charles' observation about successful people. While returning home&nbsp;on the week-end, I listened to a talk show on an American radio station. The host&nbsp;was interviewing a female guest on the same topic-what makes people successful? The female host witnessed one commonality among the many successful people she had interviewed, some of whom included celebrities, including Tiger Woods. <br /><br />What was the one ingredient in these individuals' success? Taking a RISK.<br /><br />So there you have it. Work out some goals and take a RISK in your job search.<br /><br />If your job search is not producing fruitful results, write down your goals and take a RISK to do something different that you may not have considered. I bet that your efforts will be rewarded.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career expert and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Catch me LIVE at the Cannexus conference in Ottawa, Canada on Jan 24, 2011, <a href="http://www.cannexus.ca/">http://www.cannexus.ca/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1937971894094133192?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-8190534236218550752010-10-19T19:56:00.002-04:002011-02-28T20:19:21.470-05:00<div>American journalist Jane Pauley appeared on the Today show to feature her latest project,"Find your calling." Her project is dedicated to individuals who are 50+ and have found their (true) "calling in life."&nbsp; <br /><br />Finding your calling could represent a blueprint for your next job or career. Pauley suggests that individuals "give back skills" that they already have. In other words, you don't necessarily have to re-train or re-qualify for your next job or career. This means that individuals can re-invent themselves without having to do an "extreme makeover." <br /><br />Take a free moment to think about skills that you can give BACK to a potential employer or company. This could be the springboard for a fullfilling job or career in the future!<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, <u>How to use social media in your job search</u><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br />Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphonecom<br /><br />Twitter: @ravingredhead and @melissacmartin (bilingual)<br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-819053423621855075?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-11804816966857825522010-10-14T20:23:00.012-04:002010-10-17T21:09:26.195-04:00<div>The following post was inspired by the 33 rescued Chilean miners. What an inspiration they are! Their experience&nbsp;resonates&nbsp;<strong>resilience</strong>. You`ll soon understand what I mean.<br /><br />Back in September, I posted an article,&nbsp;"<strong>Facing a layoff:&nbsp;10 ways on how to deal with th</strong>e <strong>signs," </strong>part<strong> </strong>I.<br />Here's the sequel.<br /><br />Recently, I started to work with a new clientele-unemployed adults who are recovering from severe and persistent mental illnesses. The following post is taken from researcher Marsha M. Linehan,&nbsp;who authored the book, <u>The Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills workbook for bipolar disorder: Using DBT to regain control of your</u> <u>emotions and your life</u>. Perhaps&nbsp;you are questioning why I am referring to bipolar disorder or DBT in a career blog! In my previous post, I commented&nbsp; that "Layoffs hit our psychological jugular (I just created the term in this context). Emotions run awry."&nbsp;If you are laid off, there are some raw emotions involved, UNLESS you <strong>focus on recovery </strong>from a<strong> layoff</strong>. You <strong>can</strong> do it!!<br /><br />Marsha&nbsp;refers to a DBT skill called "<strong>distress tolerance skills</strong>." These are skills that "get you through a crisis situation without engaging in self-destructive behaviours that likely would make the situation worse for you." Let's face it, if you have been laid off for some time, it is far easier, especially in a&nbsp;crisis, to&nbsp;opt for negative behaviours that may decimate your faltering confidence and delay your <strong>recove</strong>ry from a layoff.<br /><br />I have adapted <strong>RESISTT it to a successful job search</strong>:<br /><br /><strong>Reframe</strong>- instead of concentrating on what things have gone wrong in your job search, think of what's gone right. For example, reframing the layoff experience could be something like," I honestly disliked my last job anyway. If I had stayed for another year, I would have hit rock bottom. The layoff opened the door to improving my chances of breaking into a new career. The layoff wasn't as traumatic as I once thought!"<br /><br />Mindfully<strong> Engage</strong> in an activity-Many activities produce better results in a job search. These are activities that engage your mind. The possibilities are endless....<br /><br />Do <strong>something for Someone else</strong>- Take a break from your job search. Help someone else who is struggling or volunteer your time or expertise. Volunteerism will sharpen your existing skills and employers will take notice on your revised résumé.<br /><br /><strong>Intense </strong>sensations. In a physical sense, this refers to extreme conditions, such as taking a hot bath or a cold shower. In another context,&nbsp;if a sensation is coming from inside you that could improve your job search, explore that sensation. Perhaps it is a sensation from your abdomen, (which explains why w(How many times has my own&nbsp;intuition guided my decisions. Don't&nbsp;discount intuition). It could be the breakthrough in your job search.<br /><br /><strong>Shut it out</strong>-A drawn out job search is more likely to plague the mind with negative thoughts. See the "reframe" reference above. The negative words associated with a layoff could fill this page. Shut them out of your mind, even temporarily.<br /><br /><strong>Think neutral thoughts</strong>- Maybe you've sent out X number of applications and have not received an interview invitation yet. Think neutrally. The hiring could be stalled or the employer may be on the brink of landing a lucrative contract, which could result in bringing in your expertise. (Remember, you will achieve better results if you <strong>brand yourself as a solution-builder</strong> with an employer, rather than a "generic" job seeker).<br /><br /><strong>Take a break</strong>.&nbsp;Get off the&nbsp;electronic job board highway. Take a detour. Job boards&nbsp;only yield a 1-3% success rate. Do something for yourself. Go to the gym (the best anti-depressant!), have a coffee with a friend, spend time with your pet or just do what it takes to take your mind.<br /><br />Do something completely different from job searching. <br /><br />Try the <strong>RESISTT</strong> technique and give it ample time to bolster&nbsp;your job search.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, <strong>How to use social media in your job search</strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><strong>Meet Melissa Martin in person when she presents at the international career conference in January, </strong><a href="http://www.cannexus.ca/"><strong>www.cannexus.ca</strong></a><br /><br />Twitter: @ravingredhead<br /><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1180481696685782552?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-60959934995294462212010-09-28T21:06:00.002-04:002010-10-14T19:51:35.079-04:00<div><br />Layoffs hit our psychological jugular (I just created the term in this context). Emotions run awry. Relationships are transformed. Former professional/work alliances become beleaguered, UNLESS we take strategic measures to overcome these realities.<br /><br />Speaking from experience in the past of one who has worked in various industries (radio broadcasting, education, sales and marketing and career/employment services).<br /><br />Presently, the content of the article will be revised, with the hope that you, who may be facing an impending&nbsp;layoff,&nbsp;will share your experiences. (That's why I titled this article with part ONE). In part two, I'd like to&nbsp;provide further strategies and remedies for that&nbsp;devastating life experience, the layoff.<br /><br />To quote J.T. O'Donnell, owner of http://www.careerealism.com/ North Americans have one unique commonality that separates them from the rest of the Western workforce. In casual and professional situations, North Americans are quick to tie job titles with one's identity. Imagine yourself in a social situation, laid off, and you are asked,"So what do you do Jane?" <br /><br />Words may behoove you, unless you have crafted a good <strong>branding statement</strong> or "<strong>elevator pitch</strong>" as we say in the employment field. (Outstanding resources are on this site to help you with this necessity of job searching). <br /><br />But let's get to the root of the matter. I will be satisfied if at least ONE person can benefit from the tell tale signs of a layoff. Haunting as the signs may be, they are in no specific order:<br /><br />1. Workplace behaviour has changed toward you.<br /><br />This upsetting experience can be defined as simply as management giving you short shrift, criticism, lack of recognition, and decreased responsibilities. Be mindful of when these situations unfold around you. Management is paying attention. Or to harken back to George Orwell:" Big Brother is watching you." (Was it no co-incidence that over 100 of his predictions in the book<u> 1984</u> came true?) Employers are constantly evaluating our performance. In other words, the battlefield can always be replenished with fresh talent. You want to avoid being one of the hiring casualties.<br /><br />2. Your performance evaluation ratings have slipped and your supervisor is specific about what you are doing "wrong" rather than what you are doing "right" for the company or organization. While ratings like statistics can be manipulated, pay attention to the language of the performance evaluations, specifically direct quotations. Weigh your last performance evaluation ratings against the previous year (it is astonishing how many clients I have had whose employers did not provide regular performance evaluations!)<br /><br />3. Your workplace environment has been drastically altered.<br /><br />Has your office been modified? Has your private office been downscaled to a cubicle or outside location, in contrast to your other co-workers? Did you have to wait for a long period of time to get a private office, especially if you deal with and receive sensitive or confidential information in the course of your work?<br /><br />4. You have been "singled" out in public or in private by management.<br /><br />This shameful behaviour is prevalent, unfortunately in 2010. Have your ideas been discredited increasingly during staff meetings? Are you the subject of intense scrutiny "behind closed doors" by management, resulting in more frequent meetings in your boss' office?<br /><br />5.Is office communication between you and management abnormally slow, infrequent or compromised?<br /><br />This can take form of communication, under intense scrutiny, such as emails. <br /><br />6. The company or organization has been performing poorly from an economic standpoint.<br /><br />Have contracts been lost (consistently), or fewer customers or clients patronizing the establishment? Has management struggled and scrambled to recoup some of the lost revenue, perhaps by prioritizing fundraising initiatives, which may not otherwise be a priority at the company? Has a professional fundraiser been brought into the company in short order?<br /><br />7. The company or organization is loathe or unable to be transparent about its finances to staff or to its stakeholders, such as a board of directors?<br /><br />Businesses' primary objective is to generate revenue. Survival of the fittest is a frequent characteristic of the global economy.<br /><br />8. Can your job or position be outsourced easily?<br /><br />Many major corporations and companies have chosen to uproot domestic jobs in favour of cheaper labour elsewhere. In the sluggish economy, companies are getting better at doing with less, and requiring employees to fill multiple roles to save themselves from the pink slip queue.<br /><br />9. Is your job or position being duplicated in the community?<br /><br />Certain companies, organizations and industries may not be able to sustain likeminded services and still compete as the established product or service.<br /><br />10. Are your professional achievements undervalued?<br /><br />Territorial behaviour does exist. So does professional envy.<br /><br />Now, here's how to don the professional coat of armour and minimiize the chances of a forthcoming layoff.<br /><br /><strong>Quick remedies</strong>:<br /><br />1. <strong>Document all your professional milestones in the last year and a half</strong> (ie achievements, accomplishments, etc.) The most crucial is to show how you have saved/made an employer money, saved time and/or improved something. Employers have a one track mind.<br /><br />2. <strong>Know your allies at work.</strong> Get support immediately. Receiving the pink slip unexpectedly hurts enough, unless you have a support network to soften the blow. Support starts from home and extends into the workplace with trusted colleagues who can vouch for your achievements and accomplishments.<br /><br />3. <strong>Get testimonials</strong> (letters of reference, etc) from colleagues or someone who knows your work peformance and ethics intimately. Advance further and get testimonials online. Remember, your online identity is priceless.. Use <strong>linkedin.com</strong> testimonials to your advantage. <strong>Facebook</strong> also has an application for this. Or check out http://www.comerecommended.com/<br /><br />At least you will have online testimonials that are visible and speak to your professional integrity.<br /><br />4. If you ARE laid off, <strong>grieve the loss of your job</strong>. Remember the reference to identity earlier? Remember J.T O'Donnell's comment from <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">www.careerealism.com/</a>?&nbsp;&nbsp;Losing your identity is just what is implied. It is a loss. Allow yourself time (briefly-don't draw out the grieving process). Losing a job translates to losing one's identity, at least in North Amercian society.<br /><br />5. Be aware (just aware) of the <strong>cycle of unemployment</strong> (the signs resemble the stages of grief). Each individual grieves differently.<br /><br />6. <strong>Get professional help</strong> to deal with point #5, if necessary.<br /><br />7. <strong>Have a job search plan</strong> and hire a coach to devise a strategy that is winnable for you.<br /><br />8. Take solace that<strong> layoffs rarely reflect you perso</strong>nally (though it may seem so, in a painful way). They reflect economics more often that not.<br /><br />9. <strong>Take advantage of training or new training</strong>. Learn a new language. (Remember, the economy is no longer local, it is global). Or find a credential that few people possess in your field. Discover where the niches or specializations are in your chosen field or industry.<br /><br />10. <strong>Volunteer your time</strong>. Elevate your self-esteem and contribute to the community. Unpaid uemployment is still valued by employers. By giving back to the community, you will elevate your self-esteem, cultivate contacts and still contribute (despite the non-monetary factor).<br /><br />Bonus tip: <strong>Create your OWN job</strong>. Tap into some entrepreneurial spirit and craft a job proposal. Some studies say that job proposals can increase your chances of penetrating the hidden job market by up to 40%. Now that's substantial!<br /><br />In closing, powerhouse <strong>Brian Tracy has a brilliant tactic to uplift you in turbulent times:</strong><br /><br />"Practise being an inverse paranoid, convinced that there is a vast conspiracy to make you successful."<br /><br />WOW! And I love to quote the ancient Romans, "Fortune favours the bold."<br /><br />Go out and be productive in your life!<br /><br />Best wishes,<br /><br />Melissa Martin<br /><br />bilingual career coach and ebook author, <u>How to use social media in your job search</u><br /><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6095993499529446221?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-74875613245552590332010-09-21T12:58:00.000-04:002010-09-21T12:58:11.212-04:00<div>Always searching for ways to stand apart in a tough economy, I came upon an ingenious tip from career specialist Jullien Gordon. <br /><br />You probably know what it means to be an entrepreneur? Well, to&nbsp;add value to your existing employer, be an intrepeneur. In the simplest sense, this means taking on the role of being entrepreneurial <u>inside</u> a company.<br />This seems to be a way of decreasing the likelihood of being "underemployed," versus "unemployed."<br /><br />I invite you to check out <a href="http://www.careerchangechallenge.com/">http://www.careerchangechallenge.com/</a><br /><br />Here's to YOUR career entrepreneurial and intrepreneurial success.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career specialist and ebook author, <u>How to use social media in your job search</u><br /><strong><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a></strong><br /><strong>FB: melissacynthiamartin</strong><br /><strong>FB fan page: careercoachingbyphone.com</strong><br /><strong>twitter: @ravingredhead</strong><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-7487561324555259033?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-18008950377785865032010-08-25T18:11:00.003-04:002010-10-25T21:19:00.621-04:00<div>With over <strong>13 years of experience in helping&nbsp;unemployed individuals</strong>, I have heard this refrain repeteadly: "I've done everything in my job search," Or "I'm stuck."<br /><br />There is a difference between being "stuck," which really means you may feel powerless.<br />Quite often, job seekers aren't necessarily "stuck," but "stalled" instead. The difference between the two, is that in the first case, <strong>job seekers give up too soon in their pursuit of a job</strong>. This happens for different reasons: no plan, no targets, no goals, no employers actually hiring in that sector and inefficient time devoted to an "active" not passive (as in job searching exclusively by electronic means) job search. Passive job searches involve no creativity or imagination, We're talking about an exclusively electronic approach or "blasting" resumes shot gun style. The result? Job seekers give up.<br /><br />If you feel that your job search has "stalled,"&nbsp;take heart. There is a silver lining in the cloud. You can retweak your job search strategy and be in the driver's seat. How about setting a goal to attend one community event this week to make contacts? If the phone is NOT ringing with job offers, only stop to take a pause and recharge your job search. It will make all the difference in your results.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />FB fan page: careercoachingbyphone.com<br />Twitter:@ravingredhead<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1800895037778586503?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-30589399871058266052010-08-25T07:16:00.004-04:002010-08-25T17:40:44.756-04:00<div>When you think of the word interview, what comes to mind? Nerves? Sweaty palms? Heart beating out of control? Certainly these are <u>physica</u>l reactions to the anticipation of a forthcoming interview.<br />What about the <u>mental</u> aspect of preparing for an interview?<br /><br />If you want to be a better interviewer, change the programming of your mind by studying <strong>NLP </strong>or <strong>neuro linguistic programming. </strong><br /><br />According to Wikapedia: The co-founders, Richard Bandler and linguist John Grinder "coined the title to denote their belief in a connection between neurological processes ('neuro'), <strong>language</strong> ('linguistic') and <strong>behaviuoral </strong>patterns that have been learned through experience ('programming') and that can be organized to achieve specific goals in life."<br /><br />What does this mean if you are conducting an interview? Pay attention to the language you use and your behaviour. Likewise, be mindful of the language the interviewer uses. Quite often, the wording of the interviewing questions is a benchmark to rate your reasoning, logic, thought patterns and communication. It is just as important to observe the interviewer's behaviour, as in body language (remember that most of our communication originates from this. Interviewers will also be evaluating YOUR body language).<br /><br />Outside of a therapeutic approach, NLP is used for "interpersonal communications and persuasion including business communication,&nbsp;sales, and interpersonal influence. Other applications include&nbsp;negotiation." source: Wikapedia. Do you notice something? All of these functions apply to interviewing. <br /><br />For example: interviewing= business communication <br />In a word, you are communicating value to a potential employer<br />persuasion= communicating your personal brand and value to a potential employer. Sales, in effect.<br />And a good interviewee will adopt the <strong>ABC tactic in an interview</strong>. Always be closing!<br /><br />negotiation= coming to an agreement with the interviewer about why you are the ideal candidate and why you ought to be compensated accordingly. SALARY negotiation is a component of the interviewing process. Use the ABC tactic&nbsp; to optimize your negotiations with an employer.<br /><br />Need a career professional to prepare you for a successful interview?<br />Contact me at <a href="mailto:teacher10@hotmail.com">teacher10@hotmail.com</a><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career specialist<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />Twitter:@ravingredhead<br />Join my Facebook fan page! careercoachingbyphone.com<br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-3058939987105826605?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-72129372244938748032010-08-09T19:20:00.000-04:002010-08-09T19:20:23.963-04:00<div>Dear readers and job seekers:<br /><br />Skills do not equate with career/job satisfaction. I will continue to reiterate this. Unfortunately, there tends to be too much emphasis on skills (whether they are transferable are not), rather than on interests, values and motivators.<br /><br />Let's go one step further in energizing your job search with MOTIVATING skills. I've seen a couple of articles in the past. One included motivated skills that identified proficiency and interest levels, based on a range of skills. The other article, written by Rebecca Hanson of <a href="http://www.teleclassinternational.com/">http://www.teleclassinternational.com/</a> (Rebecca, I've lost that brilliant document!), focused on the same topic and allowed you to create a career profile.<br /><br />You can then rate these&nbsp;MOTIVATED skills,&nbsp;based on your interest or competency. After you review them, score the motivated skills based on:<br />&nbsp;"enjoy USING very much"<br />-"like USING"<br />-"prefer NOT to use"<br />-"strongly dislike using"<br /><br />Do you notice the language? These skills are ones that appeal to you, not the ones that you may possess, but don't necessarily want to employ in your next job.<br /><br />Here's the list though not an exhaustive one) of MOTIVATED skills:<br />-speaking before groups<br />-generating ideas<br />-initiating change<br />-using intuition<br />-producing events<br />-creating images<br />-problem solving*** (Every job vacancy has a problem to solve)<br />-mediating<br />-writing<br />-brainstorming<br />-preparing food<br />-co-ordinating<br />-designing<br />-evaluating<br />-organizing<br />-supervising<br />-working outdoors<br />-hand dexterity<br />-building<br />-performing<br />-budgeting<br />-promoting<br /><br />Patterns may emerge, while you review the list. Review the results with a career professional. Identifying your motivating skills is&nbsp;germane to your personal career/job profile.<br /><br />Take the time to know what motivates you BEFORE proceeding with your job search. Otherwise, you may end up with insubstantial results.<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career/job search expert and ebook author, <strong>How to use social media in your job</strong> <strong>search</strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br />- <br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-7212937224493874803?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-49453782784880695902010-08-08T20:39:00.001-04:002010-08-08T20:40:34.559-04:00<div>How can I find the best companies to work for?" That's a question most job seekers ask almost daily. It's hard to answer ... because it's the wrong question. <br /><br />Here's the real issue beneath that question: "I don't want to have to think hard about finding the best companies to work for." Admit it. You -- like me and all humans -- hate to think. It takes time. You have to pick and choose. You might make a mistake. And it can give you a headache. But unthinking behavior is a sure way to stay unemployed. So, let's re-phrase the query, because a well-phrased question is half-answered. <br /><br />If you've been job hunting for more than 4 weeks, ask this question instead: "What have I NOT been willing to do to find the best companies to work for?" That's better. And easier to answer. In fact, here 4 things you can do TODAY to find the best employers to work for<br /><br />&nbsp;... 1) Look at your connections on LinkedIn. I mean really look. Pick 5 people you admire, view their profiles, and look for the following: <br /><br />* Where do they work now? (Could you work there?)* Where did they work before? (Could you work there?)* Who are their clients? (Could you work there?)* Who are their competitors? (Could you work there?)* Who are their vendors? (Could you work there?) <br /><br />Do this for 5, 10, or more people, and you'll surely find 5-20 prospective employers. <br /><br />2) Make connections at your last employers. Specifically, think about everyplace you've worked before. Now ask yourself the following questions: <br /><br />* Could you work there again? (Could you work there again? Don't snicker -- getting re-hired happens every day.)* Could you work for your former clients? * Could you work for your former competitors?* <br />Could you work for your former vendors? <br /><br />3) Find companies in the news. Spend 15-20 minutes researching the Business section of your local newspaper, looking for fast, smart, growing companies. Can't find any? Consider moving (or looking harder). 4) Ask 5 people you admire. I saved this for last, but it really ought to come first. Because, the more conversations you have, the more people will know about your job search -- and the faster you'll get hired. So, ask the 5 most-connected people you know for advice. <br /><br />Tip: Take them all out for coffee, bring a legal pad, take notes. In 30-45 minutes, you'll surely come away with answers that will shorten your job search. Total cost: Less than $30. [Article by Kevin Donlin, Co-Creator of the Guerrilla Job Search System. If you're in the job market and want to try something new, you can see Guerilla Job Search secrets caught on video at thesimplejobsearch.com<br /><br />Kevin Donlin, <a href="http://www.gresumes.com/">http://www.gresumes.com/</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4945378278488069590?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-28399701956764854602010-08-05T20:38:00.001-04:002010-10-25T20:54:37.153-04:00<div>&nbsp;Especially for MID-CAREER job seekers, use the "<strong>BOTH/AND APPROACH"&nbsp; </strong>during your job search.<br /><br />Rather than choosing a job or career that is&nbsp;totally removed from your past career or job, combine that with an untapped skill set in a new position. This avoids you from being turned down for a specific position and "woos" the employer by showing your value. Send an employer&nbsp; a <strong>job proposal </strong>with the "BOTH/AND APPROACH." <br /><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: &quot;Trebuchet MS&quot;, &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong>If you are unfamilar with the purpose of a job proposal, email me via </strong><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/"><span style="color: #de7008;"><strong>http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com</strong></span></a> and I will send you information on this highly technique that taps into the <strong>hidden job market</strong></span><br /><br />Think of what you could combine (sales, customer service, administration, HR expertise...the possibilities are endless!) with a skill set that you've been hoping to use or that the EMPLOYER can use. This will depend on the company's needs.<br /><br /><br />For example, I used it long ago in the RADIO business. I combined my on-air expertise with doing part-time sales in an untapped market (American station in a Canadian city). The radio owners reaped the benefits and I used both skill sets!<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2839970195676485460?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-3839925549995097162010-07-31T14:58:00.000-04:002010-07-31T14:58:44.834-04:00<div>Dear readers:<br /><br />Today's post is aimed at women who make up a significant part of the workforce in North America.<br /><br />Forbes.com recently posted a slideshow on the "top 20 fastest growing occupations for women."<br /><br />No surprise that many of the occupations are concentrated in the medical or healthcare field.<br />Co-incidentally, I just came back from the vet to take in cat #2 and the local practice appears to be flourishing!<br /><br />Among some of the findings are:<br /><br />-occupational therapy aides<br />-physical therapy assistants<br />-veterinary technicians and assistants (I have read many times that the pet industry in North America alone exceeds $300 million! We LOVE to spoil our furry and feathered friends! <br /><br />You can read more at <a href="http://www.tinyurl.com/29fa4nb">http://www.tinyurl.com/29fa4nb</a><br /><br />Best wishes,<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />Twitter: @ravingredhead<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-383992554999509716?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-50647930778766782472010-07-31T14:10:00.000-04:002010-07-31T14:10:03.493-04:00<div>Career expert J. T. O'Donnell, founder of <a href="http://www.careerealism.com/">http://www.careerealism.com/</a>, on whose site I am proud to be an "approved career expert," published an article earlier this year on the power of 3's.<br /><br />Here is a 3 part recipe for interview preparation:<br /><br />1. <strong>Confidence</strong>- This is the FIRST thing that any competent&nbsp;interviewer seeks in the job candidate. Exude confidence (not over confidence) and you will walk a mile in your interview.<br /><br />2. <strong>Communication-</strong> Experts will agree that this is the dealbreaker about being the successful candidate. A credentialed career specialist will coach you before the interview and help you&nbsp;get hired. Hiring someone for their expertise is a worthy investment. If you want to know more, drop me a line at <a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br />3. <strong>Content</strong>- Rehearse mini stories that do not exceed 2 minutes. Statistics show that interviewers' attention spans drop substantially after one minute. Use strategies such as STAR (situation, task, action, result) or PULL (using content based on your paid experience, unpaid experience, such as volunteering, learning experiences and life experiences) to ace the&nbsp;interview.<br /><br />Best wishes,<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />Twitter: @ravingredhead<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5064793077876678247?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-70193887024258911502010-07-26T19:28:00.002-04:002010-07-26T19:34:29.467-04:00<div>"Fathers know best." Heard that term? Wasn't that a TV show in America back in the 50's? In any case, my dear father actually steered me AWAY from a career choice. He only wished good fortune with his daughter so that she wouldn't have to "starve" on the meagre salary of a radio broadcaster...However, it resulted in my quantum career leap to career coach/counsellor/ job search specialist/educator.<br /><br />I fared pretty well in radio broadcasting, but what if your loved ones insist on making a career choice&nbsp;that can be ill-fated?<br /><br />My client "Mark"&nbsp;mentioned&nbsp;that&nbsp;his father wanted him to study material so that he could launch a career in insurance sales. Before you start to fire up the torpedoes, I am not undermining&nbsp;the importance of sales. Far from it. Dear dad has been a salesman for 50 years and&nbsp;another relative has enjoyed numerous successes. I too have relied on sales to make&nbsp;a "quick" income before and after teachers college.<br /><br />Mark asked my advice about starting a sales career. I&nbsp;inquired if this career was a suitable&nbsp;fit with his existing talents and qualifications. (You may notice that I do not include skills as a primary determinant of a career fit).&nbsp;Mark would have to deal with the realities of sales: dealing with objections, dealing with rejection and having to "close the sale." Oh, and in this case, he would end up with a commission-based income.<br /><br />In addition to his&nbsp;fragile&nbsp;level of self-confidence, Mark has been recovering from illnesses in the past years which have led to a few job dismissals. Ultimately, Mark decided that this was&nbsp;not the course of action.<br /><br />We then proceeded to Carole Martin's&nbsp;(no relation)&nbsp;exercise of&nbsp;"digging for gold" in job&nbsp;postings (essentially&nbsp;deciphering a job posting three times). This exercise was invaluable in determining what jobs Mark would apply to.<br /><br />Present company excluded, be weary of loved ones who claim that they have expert&nbsp;carer advice.<br />At the end of the day, <strong>you are the master of your own destiny</strong>.<br /><br />"Fortune favours the bold," Virgil<br /><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Check out my&nbsp;ebook, How to use social media in your&nbsp;job search<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-7019388702425891150?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-25354618856386853212010-07-12T20:57:00.001-04:002010-07-12T20:58:31.181-04:00<div>How is your job search going? In the US, the average job search time is 33 weeks. That's extraordinarily high. I believe I saw&nbsp;a sign of the tough economic times when I visited New York state for a few hours yesterday. <br /><br />Tough&nbsp;economic times&nbsp;can wreak havoc on your self-confidence UNLESS you&nbsp;take a different stance. Trying out new techniques. <br /><br />I came across a really useful acronym for programming your mind to stop upsetting thoughts (and goodness knows that we have many when we are facing a stalled job search with no results).<br /><br />The acronym, based on dialectical behaviour therapy, is designed to help people cope with overwhelming emotions (a long period&nbsp; of unemployment can do this). <br /><br />The <strong>RESISTT</strong>&nbsp; acronym can "help you distract yourself from distressing thoughts without making things worse."&nbsp;Canadian registered Social Worker Sheri Van Dijk features the&nbsp;RESISTT concept in&nbsp;The Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills Workbook.<br /><br />I have adapted it to a successful job search:<br /><br /><strong>Reframe</strong>- instead of concentrating on what things have gone wrong in your job search, think of what's gone right. (Even the smallest thing such as taking risks).<br />Mindfully <strong>Engage</strong> in an activity-Many activities produce better results in a job search.<br />Do something for <strong>Someone</strong> else- Take break from your job search. Help someone else who is struggling or volunteer your time or expertise.<br /><strong>Intense</strong> sensations-If&nbsp; a sensation is coming from inside you that could improve your job search, explore that sensation. It could be the breakthrough in your job search.<br /><strong>Shut </strong>it out-A drawn out job search is more likely to plague the mind with negative thoughts. See the "reframe" reference above.<br />Think neutral <strong>thoughts</strong>- Maybe you've sent out X number of applications and have not received an interview yet. Think neutrally. The hiring could be stalled or the employer may be on the brink of landing a lucrative contract, which could result in bringing in your expertise.<br /><strong>Take</strong> a break.&nbsp; Rule #1. Peel yourself from electronic job boards. They only yield a 1-3% success rate.<br />Do something completely different from job searching.<br /><br />Try the <strong>RESISTT</strong> technique and give it ample time to take effect in your job search.<br /><br /><strong>Melissa Martin,</strong> bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />Twitter: @ravingredhead<br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-2535461885638685321?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-66142063029057052372010-06-30T22:30:00.000-04:002010-06-30T22:30:19.479-04:00<div>&nbsp;Two months ago, I attended a customer service seminar. The theme of the seminar was customer service excellence. The competent facilitator&nbsp;observed,&nbsp;" customer service is the NEW marketing."&nbsp; So true!<br /><br />In the competitive workforce customer service and the NEW kind of networking go hand and hand. (On the Today Show on NBC news this morning,&nbsp;the "mad money" expert predicted that if job creation was in the offing soon for America, then all would be well in the future).<br /><br />Here's where YOU come in as the job seeker. &nbsp;To achieve success in your job search, know your USP (unique sales points) BEFORE you apply for your desirable position. <br /><br />Here's how the content of the customer service seminar can elevate YOUR USP:<br /><br />Measure your "quality service" in a current or past job. Start with a benchmark. What do YOU want to achieve in your next position? Communicate to your potential employer that you have a benchmark for standards.<br /><br />For example, the Four Seasons hotel, a prominent employer in the hospitality industry, requires job candidates to pass 4 interviews.<br /><br />Model others' successes to identify your USP.&nbsp; LL Bean, an online/catalogue retailer in America won the "best customer service" award in 2009 . Tony Hsieh, the highly successful owner of <a href="http://www.zappos.com/">http://www.zappos.com/</a>, remarked that the "telephone is one of the best branding devices." His recipe of success?<br /><br />Deliver WOW through service. You can do the same with a potential employer.<br /><br />Embrace and drive change.&nbsp; Show employers that because of your USP, you can do this.<br /><br />Last night, I saw a documentary on CBC news on how employers in the knowledge economy are looking for THINKERS. Before your next interview, be polished and show poise. Employers WILL take notice. <br /><br />The new currency, reported CBC news (Canada), is IDEAS.<br /><br />Go out and explore resources to develop your USP. I have many suggestions.<br /><br />Need ideas? Contact me before you apply for your next application.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-6614206302905705237?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-11019625790666025772010-06-28T21:50:00.000-04:002010-06-28T21:50:13.555-04:00<div>Beware of the failure syndrome which frequently affects people's job search. <br /><br />Set 1 realistic goal to move forward. <br /><br />Devote TIME&nbsp; and "do the work" to GET work, such as researching employers thoroughly before applying and accepting an interview.&nbsp; (You would be surprised how many job candidates attend an interview with "a blind eye.")<br /><br />NEXT: how competitive intelligence will set you apart from other job seekers<br /><br />Melissa Martin, <strong>bilingual career coach</strong> and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> <br /></div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-1101962579066602577?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-84979436910473749222010-06-15T19:49:00.000-04:002010-06-15T19:49:17.330-04:00<div><br /><br />June 15, 2010&nbsp; <br /><br />Dear Experts,<br />I am unskilled, unemployed, living on a poverty-level income, over 50, and can’t afford to go to school to get skills. How can I get ahead?<br /><br />Dear unskilled:<br /><br />You are not alone. Go online and research free courses (they are available!) <br /><br />Take advantage of government job centres where free courses and seminars are offered.<br />Register with temporary agencies. At Manpower (at least in Canada, I'm not sure about the U.S), once you register, you can get FREE software that you can access at home and build your skills.<br />Take a look at your community newspaper, choose a local event and volunteer, even for a short time. Better yet, target some businesses and non-profits where you would like to volunteer. Non-profits in particular are eager to have fresh blood to help them with short-term or long-term projects because they are often underfunded and short-staffed. Once you have some volunteering under your belt. Get recommendations or letters or reference.<br />Hope this helps!<br />Melissa Martin bilingual career coach<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-8497943691047374922?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-57795528605480230912010-06-10T21:26:00.000-04:002010-06-10T21:26:31.100-04:00<div>Today's question from careerealism.com:<br />Dear Experts,<br />My co-worker is being investigated for practicing some work techniques that are against the rules at the company. Personally, I don’t think it’s a big deal and my co-worker should not get in any trouble. If found guilty, she would probably lose her job.<br /><br />Unfortunately, I have been dragged into the investigation so my boss wants to ask me a few questions regarding the incident. I don’t want to get my co-worker in trouble but I also do not want to lie to my boss. If I lie, it could come back and bite me in the butt.<br /><br />How should I react to this situation?<br /><br />Dear employee:<br />Carefully prepare what you are going to say to your employer. Stay with the facts and try to minimize any indiscriminate behaviour from your co-worker. You will raise suspicions if you don't say anything at all, however, consider your reputation and preserving your co-worker's reputation, if at all possible.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5779552860548023091?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-43445599877786277002010-06-05T14:30:00.005-04:002010-06-05T14:35:34.813-04:00<div>I caught&nbsp; a segment from the CBS Saturday morning show on job searching. Three people from Hired TV offered these nuggets of information for the the younger crowd,, just graduating from college or university.<br /><br />-To quote one of the HIRED TV hosts, the "resume is dead." Make your resume a living resume and embrace technology. Be aware of technology such as social media to create an online resume, Realize that may be scrutinized by employers. "Everything is being recorded," Make sure you have a professional image on the internet. Employers and recruiters are searching for your name.<br /><br />-When being interviewed by employers, "focus on the now and the future," not the past. Employers are curious about what you value you can add to their business or company in the present times.<br /><br />-When preparing for the interview, come up with 3 adjectives to describe yourself. Offer concrete examples of how you exhibit those adjectives.<br /><br />-Finally, when hired, |"create a strong presence in the company."<br /><br />Best wishes in your job search.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coacha nd ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-4344559987778627700?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-3506851630052234852010-06-03T21:16:00.002-04:002010-10-25T21:30:49.984-04:00<div>Today, I received a webinar description about "fresh stategies to increase cold calling success."&nbsp; The author, Jill Konrath, has written a book called Snap Selling. The strategies definitely apply to a creative and successful job search.<br /><br /><strong>Cold calling is the MOST effective way of getting a job</strong> <strong>lead</strong> and tapping into the hidden job market. Here are Jill Konrath's tips, which <strong>you can use in your job search</strong>:<br /><br /><br />1. Craft your messages&nbsp;that cannot be ignored.&nbsp; For example, your personal brand, online profile or achievements which have received attention, such as published blog articles, awards or promotions in your designated industry, <br /><br />2. Create urgency around setting up a meeting with you.&nbsp;&nbsp; I always endorse a SALES letter whenever possible, to attract employers' interest. <br /><br />3. Pique curiosity about your product or service. Creativity and ingenuity are paramount in standing apart in your job search. My ebook "How to use social media in your job search" gives ample examples about being unconventional in your job search. Why settle for the norm when you can be unique and sell your USP (unique selling points) to get hired.&nbsp; In the past, when I had "leaner" times in university, I earned quick income by selling some of the most difficult products, including vacuums and make-your-own-pop machines.&nbsp;The more you apply unconventional methods in your job search, the more you will be noticed. Dare to be different in attracting potential employers.<br /><br />4. Position yourself as an invaluable resource.&nbsp; Back to your essential USP. If you can make or save an employer money, or even save time, you will be the darling heart of an employer. EVERY job vacancy is an opportunity to solve a problem. <br /><br />In a word,&nbsp;job searching is ALL sales and marketing. <br /><br />"Fortune favours the bold," Virgil, Ancient Roman poet and writer <br />&nbsp; <br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search <br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a> <br />&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-350685163005223485?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-54941428163818470242010-06-03T20:35:00.000-04:002010-06-03T20:35:14.911-04:00<div><br />Dear Experts,<br /><br />I had a series of interviews last week with a few different companies. I don’t think any of the interviews will lead to any job offers but I am curious how I presented myself when I met each hiring manager.<br /><br />Is there a proper process for obtaining feedback on my interview skills from the interviewer?<br /><br />Dear interviewee:<br />I cannot recall a "proper process," however, there is etiquette, to some extent, in asking feedback from interviewers.<br /><br />Keep in mind:<br />-with the risk of reprisal and possible risks of libel&nbsp; cases if you contest their feedback, in extreme circumstances, (we do live in a society that is litigious in nature, unfortunately), interviewers may not be forthcoming<br />-interviewers may not be keen about disclosing how you "performed" or didn't perform during the interview, because of the above reasons<br /><br />That said, reaffirm your enthusiasm about working for the company or in the designated industry and the reasons why you want to work for them. Then ask tactfully, and with poise, how you desire to improve your interviewing skills in the future. Depending on the context (talking to Human Resources, who may be more inclined to "go by the book" with procedures, you could take a risk in asking something like, " I realize that you may not provide a detailed answer, but it would really benefit my active job search to know how I can concentrate on being a star candidate the next time around." (Or something to that effect).<br /><br />In closing, don't expect a full-fledged, candid answer from interviewers. Don't mistake my message. Interviewers&nbsp; have their own criteria and agenda. For example, they may use the practice of a pseudo interview (see my previous post on my blog) or may not be enthusiastic about being candid with a "stranger." When I say that, I mean that employers would rather hire based on the 3 R's: reputation, recommendation and referrals. And I could show you statistics of how a certain percentage of interviewers are not qualified to interview in the first place!&nbsp; You have talent! Someone will discover it in time.<br /><br />Best of luck in your job search.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to find a job using social media<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5494142816381847024?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-51741161130220487702010-05-30T21:16:00.013-04:002010-09-28T21:13:57.201-04:00<div><br />A client showed me an article he had written about fitness conditioning. He referred to Russian&nbsp;strength expert&nbsp;Pavel Tsatsouline, who used five&nbsp;principles&nbsp;to train the American military's special forces.&nbsp;At first blush, they&nbsp;relate directly&nbsp;to a <strong>successful job search</strong>:<br /><br />1. <strong>Focused</strong><br /><br />Applying for jobs haphazardly, without a goal and without targeted employers or companies automatically weakens your job search and puts you in a "deficit" position. Deficits may include applying for "anything," applying for all the jobs advertised on a company or employment web site, or not taking the time to craft a plan for success. Writing down your goals is especially critical. Regrettably,&nbsp;only 3% of adults write down their goals. &nbsp;Eminent businessmen Brian Tracy demonstrates the importance of having focus to achieve success on&nbsp; <a href="http://www.briantracy.com/">http://www.briantracy.com/</a> Having no focus in a job search is just like preparing a recipe without key ingredients and glossing over precise steps to produce the ideal&nbsp;product. <br /><br />2.&nbsp; <strong>Flawless</strong><br />Don't mistake the message with this principle of strength. Your application or candidature can be flawless in so far as your marketing campaign: a unique, distinguishable&nbsp;personal brand; a compelling resume to sell your brand to employers; an error-free&nbsp;cover or sales letter that demonstrates your value;&nbsp;and above all, a hard-hitting "elevator pitch" to potential employers and contacts. Contrary to popular opinion, the&nbsp;elevator pitch, not the resume, is the cornerstone of a successful job search. Ensure that the "pitch" &nbsp;is flawless, with the intent of communicating&nbsp;that you are the desirable candidate to meet an employer's needs.<br /><br />3. <strong>Frequent</strong><br /><br />Assess the effectiveness of your job search frequently. What is working well? What is not working well? What needs to be tweaked in your job search? What are 3&nbsp;activities that you could do in the next week to&nbsp;make contacts? What&nbsp;risk taking measures could you take to get noticed? Analyze your results. Fine tune your job search frequently.&nbsp;&nbsp;Successful brands constantly collect data and information to correct mistakes, boost their profits and stem any&nbsp;losses. Even&nbsp;big name brand companies&nbsp;have failed in certain advertising campaigns to attract customers. Does the phrase, "tried, tested and true" sound familiar to you? Job seekers need to test new job search tactics and&nbsp;place themselves&nbsp;in a position of strength. <br /><br />4. <strong>Fresh</strong><br />This principle is an extension of the last point. If your job search is yielding little or no results, it's time to refreshen your approach. Seek others' advice about how they got their last two jobs. Draw upon the wisdom of those who are employed in your designated field. Refreshen tactics to get you beyond the starting gate (what I consider as the call to attend&nbsp;an interview). Woo potential employers with fresh information about you, such as recent performance evaluations, recommendations or volunteer projects that put you in the spotlight. Create a blog, write a press release, develop an online resume or&nbsp;digital resume. Design an online business card, including your bio, recommendations and attachments. My choice of service is on <a href="http://melissamartin.businesscard2.com/">http://melissamartin.businesscard2.com/</a>&nbsp; Share&nbsp;your level of expertise by using Slideshare and including the links in your online profile for employers to view. Or join forums or groups to answer questions and get noticed for your expertise. Another fresh idea is to create your own, customized social network&nbsp;on <a href="http://www.ning.com/">http://www.ning.com/</a>. Include the links in your resume and portfolio. Pique employers' interest with fresh ideas. They are pre-screening potential candidates by searching names on the Internet.<br /><br />5.&nbsp;<strong>Fluctuating</strong><br />This principle applies to variety. Ensure that your job search takes&nbsp;a multi-layered approach.&nbsp; The job market is constantly fluctuating because of employers' changing needs. Case in point, "hiring decisions are micro decisions, not macro decisions." Unfortunately, I cannot find the source of that powerful quotation, but I am keen to give another person credit. Let me qualify this quotation.<br /><br />Have you ever been qualified for a job, selected for&nbsp;an interview, and wondered why your credentials were not acknowledged by an employer? Were you passed over by a candidate whose credentials weren't as extensive as yours? The fact remains that hiring is almost always a biased process, often emotionally-laden,&nbsp;and made on a job by job, moment by moment, person to person basis. Is this fair? Definitely not for a job seeker with talents. All the more reason why job seekers need to keep up with hiring trends, and that translates into a job market that reflects a constant state of flux.<br /><br />Previously, Pavel Tsatsouline's&nbsp;strength principles&nbsp;exemplified&nbsp;"peak power" in training the American military.&nbsp;With a concerted effort, job seekers can rally from a position of weakness (a&nbsp;<strong>job hunter</strong> without confidence and focus), to a position of strength, (a job hunter who presents as a <strong>solution builder</strong>). <br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, <strong>How to use social media in your job search</strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> <br /><br /></div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5174116113022048770?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-58315427107001700472010-05-26T20:35:00.002-04:002010-05-26T20:37:56.253-04:00<div><br /><br />May 26, 2010 by sparktalk <br /><br />Dear Experts,<br /><br />I currently have a full-time job but I’m in desperate need of more money. So, I applied for a part-time/paid internship with a family-friend to help pay the bills.<br /><br />I really like my full-time job and would consider it a priority compared to the internship. With that being said, do I owe it to my manager to inform her of me taking on another line of work?<br /><br /><br /><br />Dear intern seeker:<br /><br />The answer really depends on the industry in which you are working full-time. There are instances when having a part-time internship may be viewed as a "conflict of interest," even though it may seem like a harmless, benign tactic on your part to gain more experience and to generate more income. The other side of the coin is that given the stiff competition for internships in the face of a tough economy, sometimes it is better to not mention the second position.&nbsp; The market is tough enough as it is, especially in the U.S.<br /><br />To help you make an informed decision, use the tool I always endorse with my clients, which is known as SWOT. That stands for strengths of taking the part-time position; weaknesses of taking it; the opportunities from the internship;a nd threats, as in uncontrollables.<br />Best of luck!<br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5831542710700170047?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-83920115858231386172010-05-11T20:42:00.000-04:002010-05-11T20:42:20.738-04:00<div>Hello everyone,<br /><br />Want to hear career experts talk about the latest trends and tune in anytime 24/7? <br /><br />You can download the podcasts of CareerSuccessradio.com with Australian career experts Keith Keller and Annemarie Cross anytime:<br /><br />Tune into the show about the Canadian job market. <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/careercommunique/2010/04/18/canadian-special-edition">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/careercommunique/2010/04/18/canadian-special-edition</a><br /><br />and one of the top 5 MOST downloaded shows from 2009, "Career Change Is Not Only Possible..It's Exciting":&nbsp; <a href="http://twt.tl/hZMBwrZ">http://twt.tl/hZMBwrZ</a> <br /><br />Tune in next month when I will be a guest on Keith and Annemarie's show to talk about career change!<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, <strong>How to use social media in your job search</strong><br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-8392011585823138617?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-5406822884710527112010-05-06T19:35:00.000-04:002010-05-06T19:35:44.419-04:00<div>T.A.P. Q#482 – What’s the Smallest Resume Font I Can Use?<br /><br /><br />Dear Experts,<br /><br />What is the smallest size font I can use on a resume to keep it to one page?<br /><br /><br />Dear job seeker:<br /><br />A 10 font is the smallest for a resume. Choose a font that is appropriate, such as Arial or New Times Roman. <br /><br />Best wishes,<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career coach and ebook author, How to use social media in your job search<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script> </div><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-540682288471052711?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-3627598367455553872010-04-20T19:15:00.012-04:002010-07-26T21:30:27.141-04:00<strong>Afraid of using the telephone</strong> for your job search? Use the "strip 'em down to their underwear technique!"&nbsp; You may laugh, but it works!<br /><br />Co-incidentally, I found this technique in a&nbsp;job search book written in 1980 last week).&nbsp; Some time ago, when I finished my radio broadcasting career, I continued to receive public speaking requests, and&nbsp;used the "underwear technique." <br /><br />During my nine and a half year stint at a Canadian military base, I used the "underwear technique" to deliver briefings for deploying military personnel. On some occasions, I spoke in front of 200 military members at a time and used to "quake in my boots" (pun intended) at the beginning of the briefings.<br /><br />The underwear technique works exponentially for job searching, especially when tapping into the hidden job market. It is simply astounding <strong>how many people fear the use of the telephone</strong> in the so-called "information age."&nbsp; In fact, one colleague admitted recently that his daughter who was attending college not only had a morbid fear of the telephone, but patently refused to engage in networking. Two grave mistakes in job searching! Fortunately, she must have received "advice" or at least urging from my colleague to change her job search strategy. The telephone landed her an interview!<br /><br />Email,and increasingly, social media,&nbsp;remain&nbsp;as our preferred means of communication, but they pale in comparison to using the telephone. Use it strategically and your job search will pay off in dividends for reaching decision makers, hiring managers and influential people in your job search.<br /><br />Email me (in this case!)&nbsp; a story of how you were most creative in using the telephone during&nbsp;a job search&nbsp;by April 30th. I will award the most creative entry with a <strong>FREE COPY</strong>&nbsp;<strong>of my ebook</strong>, How to use social media in your job search.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bililngual career coach<br /><a href="mailto:teacher10@hotmail.com">teacher10@hotmail.com</a><br />Twitter: @ravingredhead<br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br /><br /><strong>PS </strong>No sooner did I finish this post when NBC nightly news in America posted this news piece on Twitter, entitled, "Txt 2 much." According to a survey, NBC reported&nbsp; that&nbsp;U.S. teens send 50 texts daily and that "girls between 14-17 send 100 or more," believing that "email is too formal." <a href="http://bit.ly/alPCuV">http://bit.ly/alPCuV</a><br /><br />PSS The telephone seemed&nbsp;to be a hot topic the day that I originally wrote this! Here's what <a href="http://www.careerbuilder.ca/">http://www.careerbuilder.ca/</a> emailed me:<br />"CareerBuilder.ca has launched a new free "Jobs" iPhone application! This new app gives you the ability to search and apply for new jobs from virtually anywhere. With the iPhone's built-in geolocation technology, you can search for jobs in your area with a simple keyword search and apply directly from your iPhone!"<br /><br /><div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><br /><br /><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-362759836745555387?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-5245048096059417342010-04-19T20:20:00.001-04:002010-04-19T20:22:39.079-04:00If you missed Keith Keller and Annemarie Cross' special Canadian ediition show, I was proud to be a guest. <br />Keith and Annemarie broadcast a show on "living and working in Canada." <br /><br />The first portion of the show highlighted beautiful British Columbia, site of the 2010 winter Olympics and the ParaOlympics. The second half focused on Ontario, Canada, where I am proud to reside in the spectacular 1000 islands tourist destination.<br /><br />Keith and Annemarie recently hit a milestone when statistics indicated that their show is now broadcast on 111 countries! Bravo to my favourite Aussies! <br /><br />Here's a comment from a Twitter follower of mine: CareerRadio: #Canada RT @Spherion_Canada Great #Jobseeker insights from Melissa Martin @RavingRedhead this week @CareerRadio http://twt.tl/5tlAdjv <br /><br />Please tune in and get a flavour of what it's like to live and work in the True North strong and free!<br />You can listen @CareerRadio <a href="http://twt.tl/5tlAdjv">http://twt.tl/5tlAdjv</a><br /><br />Let me know your comments about the show.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-524504809605941734?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-57672705693891768082010-04-16T18:02:00.065-04:002010-10-04T20:36:37.775-04:00&nbsp;A colleague of mine passed on information on how he <strong>lands jobs for clients</strong>. (And dare I say that these clients have barriers that others in the competitive workforce may not have). &nbsp;"D's" title is&nbsp;"Job developer," which means that he meets employers regularly, nurtures his network of contacts and then matches available jobs to assist clients. This last point about networking is a moot point for your job search. (Ironically, <strong>employment specialists do not always practise what they preach</strong>; some&nbsp;confess that they do neither&nbsp;network actively, nor nurture their existing&nbsp;contacts. This is <strong>imperative</strong>, no matter if you are unemployed or not). Research indicates&nbsp;that you stand an 80% chance of landing your next job from someone you have met or contacted. Those are formidable odds. And something should be said about the so-called "weak links," which are people who&nbsp;appear to be irrelevant to your job search.<br /><br />Once, when I was laid off by surprise, I immediately turned to my circle of contacts, and fortunately, I received two job offers in a week and ultimately accepted a satisfying position. <br /><br />Just as Job Developers aim to attract employers to assist their clients,&nbsp;job seekers need to attract employers to demonstrate their value. Enter the "<strong>exchange theory</strong>." This theory, is designed to build a bridge between a need and a solution. In short, you give something and you get something. How does this help you as a job seeker? Read on....<br /><br />Employers, on the whole, are motivated by 2 factors: <strong>their needs</strong> must be addressed (for example, improve customer service, boost productivity levels or reduce costs). Secondly, employers must perceive <strong>value in hiring you</strong>.&nbsp;Translation? Each party&nbsp;in the "exchange" must perceive that the benefits of hiring&nbsp;you must outweigh the employer's costs. For example, convince the employer that you can help him/her with&nbsp;a high turnover&nbsp;(hiring is expensive) or being a reliable employee.<br /><br />As a matter of fact, an <strong>employer</strong> told me earlier this year that she was&nbsp;disenchanted with job placements from&nbsp;college students because&nbsp;they were&nbsp;NOT reliable.&nbsp; In spite of a shaky economy, employers have consistently told me that the number one thing that attracts them is loyal employees. (Yes, I realize that contract work is very prevalent), but job seekers need to be mindful of this.<br /><br />Job developers also use another technique which&nbsp;relates to the market theory. What's the gist of the <strong>market theory</strong> if you are unemployed?&nbsp; Features and benefits. In other words, if you are preparing yourself for an upcoming interview, what would you identify as your "features?" Perhaps your unique talents or credentials? Your new blog that holds&nbsp;sway&nbsp;with those in your chosen field? Bilingualism? Diverse experience? Now think about what benefits that can you present in an&nbsp;interview. Perhaps your stellar performance ratings? Be prepared to incorporate&nbsp;the exchange and market theories into your active job search. Obviously, it works for job developers to create employment. Why wouldn't it work to propel your job search? You don't have to be a marketing specialist to embrace these techniques.<br /><br />Incidentally, my colleague&nbsp;asked me to assist him with short-term placements. I "hit the streets" and espoused the <strong>exchange theory</strong> for the benefit of those disadvantaged clients. It worked! I landed job placements for him, using the principles of job development. You can too!<br /><br />Speak to the employer's values and goals. Assure the employer that by hiring YOU, the company will enjoy short-term and long-term benefits.<br /><br />Melissa Martin, bilingual career specialist<br /><a href="http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/">http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/</a><br />ebook&nbsp;author, <u>How to use social media in your job search</u><br />Facebook: melissacynthiamartin<br />Join my NEW Facebook FAN page: careercoachingbyphone<br />twitter: @ravingredhead<br /><br /><br /><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-5767270569389176808?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-87442183321533689022010-04-13T20:32:00.000-04:002010-04-13T20:32:05.830-04:00Join me &amp; other guests on "Canadian Special Edition" next on @CareerRadio http://bit.ly/c9589j (Sunday @5pm)bit.ly<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a class="addthis_button" expr:addthis:title="data:post.title" expr:addthis:url="data:post.url" href=""><img alt="Bookmark and Share" height="16" src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/sm-share-en.gif" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" width="83" /></a><br /><script src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a948e6426b211d1" type="text/javascript"></script></div><br /><br /><a href="http://freewebsubmission.com/"><b>FreeWebSubmission.com</b></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7911105226596103442-8744218332153368902?l=webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Melissa C. Martin Career Coachhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10093156905198935052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7911105226596103442.post-21897994774490771872010-04-13T19:59:00.003-04:002010-04-16T18:42:47.069-04:00Check out this SlideShare Presentation by Daulton West Jr.,