What Skills Will Employers Be Looking for Now with COVID-19?

2020 was quite the year, wasn’t it? Who would have thought a pandemic would sweep the nation, changing what seems like every aspect of daily life. Over 35M Americans filed for unemployment benefits when COVID-19 hit its peak per the NY Times, causing great economic uncertainty, and over an 8.4M jobs loss. Thankfully, now that businesses are in the process of safely reopening, more and more people are heading back to work — a relief for everyone! And unemployment numbers have edged down to 6%!

The economy is picking back up and companies are hiring, and I have had countless clients ask me what is changed… Heck, it seems as if there is a new normal to everything now, so I understand their concern. While the job market in and of itself was only put on hiatus and is expected to come back strong, the coronavirus has in fact shed some light on various skills employers deem essential as they move forward. Here are the top 5:

1.) Change Management

Adaptability is the willingness to confront and change your own ideas and preconceptions, while flexibility is the willingness to act based on those changes. If COVID-19 has taught us anything it is that both are necessary for businesses and organizations to navigate highly competitive marketplaces, so the ability to handle and manage change key.

2.) Technical Aptitude

Being able to hop online to conduct meetings and submit forms is vital to ensure operations run seamlessly (especially if a second wave takes place in the fall). I fully expect employers to continue to have their staff work from home on a full-time, part-time, or hybrid basis. As such, the need for a working knowledge of digital platforms is a must.

3.) Creative Ideas

It is only through unique concepts, compelling designs, and the ability to view standard, “comfortable” processes in ways that make them even better, that we can change and shape what life will be for each one of us. Expect companies, our country, and the world at large to seek those with innovative, creative ideas that will change the “status quo”.

4.) Data Literacy

This is not only due to current events. The importance of data analysis within finance, consumer trends, risk, etc… were all growing fields. Now, after the coronavirus, I am certain that the need to analyze data to make informed business decisions will be in demand. If data is not your strong suit, I encourage you to take some basic courses that are readily available online.

5.) Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity, equity, and inclusion will continue to be important in 2021 and this sort of training should be a priority for any organization with productivity, profits, and success in mind. This is no longer just a compliance matter as emotionally intelligent and fair organizations dominate their business competitors. By respecting a diverse workforce and promoting this type of culture, companies find that they have more engaged and loyal employees. This will be the next normal for business models.

These skills have always been important, but now, as the world begins to open the doors, they are what I believe employers will be looking for. By remaining open to change, up to date with technology, innovative, data literate, and equitable, you can approach your job search post-COVID with confidence.

Go get ‘em!

What Do I Say When Asked About My Salary Requirements?

Ah – the question that is on every job seeker’s mind! I understand why this is such a challenging topic—it’s the most important, and can be a dealbreaker for many. So, when asked about your salary requirements, here’s what I recommend you do:

1.) Research extensively.

Websites such as Careerbuilder, Glassdoor, Pay Scale, Indeed, and LinkedIn have salary estimates listed based on position title, length of experience, company size, and general location. They are quite accurate, obtaining their information from job seekers (just like you) who input their salary on the condition of anonymity. They then combine those figures with the latest data, generating an assessment for your review. Doing some research will not only provide you with an approximate amount you should be paid, but it will help you set reasonable expectations in case the salary you were hoping for is substantially more than what is being offered.

2.) Let the recruiter or hiring manager take the lead.

It is important that you allow the hiring manager or recruiter to bring up salary first, not the other way around. When asked what your desired salary is, I recommend flipping the question–asking if they are permitted to share the range they are working with. For example, “My salary is negotiable, depending upon the responsibilities associated with the role. Would you mind sharing the amount that is budgeted for this position?” This will prevent you from selling yourself short and putting it back in their court.

3.) Know that there are other factors to consider.

While everyone becomes hyper focused on the amount they will be paid, do remember that there are other factors to consider. Comprehensive medical benefits, a 401k match, and PTO are each a significant part of your compensation package. A salary offered may be slightly lower than expected, but the company may cover health care premiums 100%, or offer generous PTO. Schedule flexibility, work from home capabilities, volunteer opportunities, etc. should all weigh heavily when making your decision.

4.) Be ready to answer, and honest when you do.

It is important to offer a realistic, and honest range when you do answer. There is usually some wiggle room when it comes to PTO, scheduling flexibility, or even the salary itself, providing you are direct (and fair) when communicating your needs. But never start negotiating until you have a firm offer in hand.

So do your salary research and have realistic expectations. And understand this: To be able to succeed, you need to have a job search plan. This is where I come in!

Whether you are unemployed and searching for a new job or currently employed and wanting something more, my comprehensive training program will provide you with a personalized plan and a step-by-step guide to help you land your dream job. Thousands of job seekers have used my methods, with many negotiating salaries higher than they ever expected.

Contact me today!

5 Ways to Move Up the Ladder

There are numerous reasons why someone wants to climb the corporate ladder—money, ambition, vision–the list goes on and on! If you are looking up and wondering how to get there, these 5 simple, sure-fire tips will help you get ahead!

1.) Know what it is you want.

The only way to achieve your goal is to know what it is you want. Is it a title? Salary? Specific responsibilities? Is it a role within a company you admire? The opportunity to develop policy and protocol? Whatever your dream, understanding what you want to do and why will help you recognize and seize opportunities as they come your way.

2.) Become an expert in your field.

While you should continue to keep your eye on the prize, you are never going to get there if you are not excelling where you are. Make yourself an invaluable resource by understanding your position and company processes so thoroughly that you are the go-to person to ask.

3.) Go beyond your job description.

Go above and beyond each task assigned, showing you are eager to learn and grow. Remember that this does not mean taking over another person’s responsibilities (unless asked to), but showing that you put your heart into all that you do, doing it well. Be sure to ask questions and learn from mistakes.

4.) Know when to step up, and when to step back.

When people think about climbing the corporate ladder, they assume that they need to take charge – which couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, it’s important for you to be a leader, but it is also important for you to know when to step back and take orders, working well as part of a cross-functional team.

5.) Build genuine relationships.

Cultivate a positive work environment by being respectful, collaborative, and kind, demonstrating a willingness to help, and a dedication to the company’s mission. Be personable (yet professional), and a friendly member of the team. Believe it or not, interpersonal skills are vital to your success.

As you work your way to the top, remember that your character and integrity matter. Be the model employee, keeping your eyes ahead without losing sight of those around you. Be reliable, flexible, and do your work consistently, striving to exceed expectations.

If you are looking to make a change, my comprehensive training program can show you how. I have helped thousands of professionals land their dream jobs, with tips proven to help you network, position yourself, and job search more effectively. Contact me today to learn more!

Top 5 Ways to Avoid the Age Bias in the Job Search

Finding a job over 50 is not impossible. While age discrimination does happen, there ARE employers who embrace and even seek out candidates with experience. The trouble is candidates over 50 do not always know how to position themselves in a way to attract these roles. In fact, most people don’t, which is why my comprehensive training program at The Job Search School has proven to be so successful! If you are over 50 and searching for a new job, here are the top 5 ways to avoid age bias:

1.) Understand how applicant tracking systems (ATS) work.

ATS scan through applications that are submitted, searching for job-specific criteria. Though these systems can help save companies time and money, they can also serve as a roadblock for individuals who are highly qualified. Since most people use pre-formatted resumes, as well as the same resume for each position they apply for, they never seem to hear a response… Sound familiar? Use a resume that has minimal formatting, and take the time to customize it for each application. This will help push your resume through to the “interview” pile.

2.) Focus on experience from the past 10-15 years.

ATS provides employers with the option to select their desired experience level for applicants. Though mostly unintentional, employers may sometimes select 10-15 years of experience, which automatically eliminates candidates that have more. As such, I would limit your work history to the past 15 years to help get your foot in the door. You can always discuss additional accomplishments during your interview.

3.) Remove dates from your educational history.

I recommend removing dates from your educational history unless your degree has been completed within the last 3 years. Dates may serve as a trigger during an ATS scan, and a younger person may unconsciously view them through a biased lens, placing your application aside. Your degree is valuable and should be displayed proudly; removing the dates merely provides you with a competitive edge.

4.) Create an updated LinkedIn profile.

A LinkedIn profile is a must-have when conducting a job search. It is free to set up and well worth your time and energy. Upload a recent, friendly (yet professional) photo, a keyword-infused headline and summary, and job descriptions that highlight achievements from the past 10-15 years. You can list your degrees (sans dates), your certifications, and your volunteer experience, as well as various skills that your connections can endorse. Once set up, I would ask your past and present colleagues to provide recommendations of your work, which will help enhance your profile.

5.) A can-do, will-learn attitude.

There are countless programs and certifications available online to help further develop your skills and learn new ones! Topics range from technology programs to the latest in project management, change management, and team leadership. Taking the time to invest in yourself not only demonstrates an eagerness to learn but a willingness to grow professionally. Nobel prize-winning physicist Rosalyn Sussman Yalow once said, “The excitement of learning separates youth from old age. As long as you’re learning you’re not old.”

As always, if you need additional assistance, please feel free to reach out. My program can provide you with a customized job search plan, a personalized LinkedIn and resume review, and various tools to help make your job search a success.

Your dream job is waiting!

How to Bounce Back After Not Getting the Job

You were thrilled about a potential new job, only to learn that they “decided to move forward with a different candidate”. Sheer disappointment sets in, leaving you saddened, confused, and to be honest, a bit angry. Rejection is hard – especially if you had your sights set on something that seemed so great. After taking a moment to wind down (and ice cream up!), here is what you should do:

1.) Know that it is okay to be upset.

Listen, you gave this prospect your all, taking the time to research, interview, and build rapport with the hiring staff. You had likely already committed to this role, envisioning yourself within it as you moved further along with the interview process. This may be particularly disappointing if you are currently out of work, or working within a job you feel you have outgrown. It is OKAY to be upset. In fact, you should take a day to recognize and reflect on how you feel. But then, it is important to move on.

2.) Thank them for their time and consideration.

Once you feel as if you are in a better place emotionally, it is important to follow up. Graciously thank the recruiter and hiring manager for their time. I recommend connecting with them on LinkedIn as well so that your relationship can continue should another opportunity present itself (whether with this company or another – remember, this is a chance to network). If you are comfortable, I also recommend asking for feedback, even though it is rare to receive any. For example:

Hi Tom,

Thank you for your time and consideration. It has truly been a pleasure getting to know you and your team. Is there anything specific that helped shape your decision? Again, thank you. Please keep me in mind for any future opportunities. I wish you much success!

Kindest Regards,
Frank

3.) Focus on what you did that was positive—get past the negative.

Okay, you didn’t get the job – so obviously they didn’t like you, right? WRONG.

Sometimes, things are completely out of your control. They could have decided to go with an internal candidate, or maybe they went with someone who had a background that aligned more with their specific needs. Regardless of their reasoning – you were interviewed through to the end, which means – they did in fact like you, and had genuinely considered you for the position.

Instead of dissecting your interactions with a fine-tooth comb (yes, you will find things you could tweak here or there), focus on what went right. Your resume obviously made it through the ATS system, and your answers to their questions pushed you to the last round. They seemed particularly interested and impressed with your project management skills, so you must have conveyed them well. Think of some items you can improve upon (as far as being prepared and comfortable speaking about certain aspects of your career) and move forward knowing you gained excellent interviewing experience!

4.) What was it that you loved about this job?

Take it a step further and really stop and think about what it is that you loved about this position. Was it the casual atmosphere? Dog-friendly Friday? Was it the mission of the organization? The vision? The flexible work schedule? Consider this a gift: you can now look for companies that fit this mold, rather than sorting through positions blindly. You know what excites you, and can use that as the main criteria for your job search.

5.) The cliché is true, everything happens for a reason.

Don’t place this job on a pedestal of what if and if only. You certainly won’t see what’s ahead of you if you keep looking back. Like a nasty breakup, reflect on the good moments, learn from the bad, and press on with your hunt for the right one. And remember, a new day is dawning.

Your dream job is waiting!

Resume Mistakes to Avoid

Here are the top resume mistakes job seekers make, and what you can do to avoid them!

Excessive formatting or prefabricated layouts.

The ATS (applicant tracking system) cannot sort through resumes that have excessive formatting, so please avoid using any preloaded resume formats. Keep your resume clean and simple, without tables, lines, shading, or images, using a standard font and normal margins. If you want to show off your art or design skills, create a separate document that you can bring with you to your interview, rather than uploading one.

Listing large blocks of text.

Once your resume makes it through to a live person, it takes just 7 seconds for a recruiter or hiring manager to decide if your resume is worth the read. Long blocks of text appear overwhelming and aren’t exactly “skim” friendly. Make sure your resume has generous spacing, a streamlined summary, a list of skills, and short bullet points that contain responsibilities and accomplishments for each position.

Using the same resume for each application.

No two positions are the same, so why would you use the SAME resume for each position? Customize your resume for each position you apply to, ensuring the skills, accomplishments, and summary meet the needs of what the company is looking for, using the job description as a guide. Failure to do so will almost always cost you the job, as your resume will not be optimized to get past the ATS.

Egregious spelling and grammatical errors.

Typos and grammatical errors happen to the best of us! Heck, I’m sure you can find a few right now! The trouble is egregious errors throughout are difficult for recruiters and hiring managers to overlook. Be sure to review your resume thoroughly, and ask a friend or family member to look over your resume as well. This is especially important if English is your second language.

Dates, positions, and experience do not align.

If your LinkedIn profile, resume, and application list different dates, varying educational history, and different titles, you best believe that a recruiter, hiring manager, or ATS will take note. Make sure that the dates are the same across your resume, LinkedIn profile, and application as well as your position titles, educational history, and location. Any difference could hinder your job search.

If you are having a difficult time creating a resume, my Perfect Resume Builder program can help. Learn how to get past the ATS, with tips to help you customize your resume with ease. Best of all, my comprehensive program will show you how to address an employment gap, career transition, or ageism, with unlimited email support from start to finish. Contact me today – your dream job is waiting!

What to Say to Hiring Manager When Networking

If you are searching for a new job, networking – whether in-person or online – is a vital component. Countless positions are filled each year from direct referrals, which means you should be letting friends, family members, and former colleagues know you are “in pursuit” (providing it won’t impact your current job, if you are employed).

While people seem to understand the importance of networking, most have told me that when they have an opportunity to speak with a hiring manager, they go blank. I get it – all those imaginary conversations you have had with your mirror and in your head suddenly disappear, and you’re not quite sure how to approach the elephant in the room (hire me, please – I’d be perfect)!

Here’s what you should do:

1.) If networking in-person, remain professional, yet friendly and approachable, and follow the hiring manager’s cues.

Do not “charge” the hiring manager by discussing your need for a job and how you desperately want to work for their company. It comes across as aggressive, and places the manager in an uncomfortable position. I recommend following the manager’s social cues, listening intently to what they have to say and responding appropriately. If the opportunity presents itself, let them know what it is you do and how you are currently searching for a job, then allow them to lead. If they move forward with the conversation, great – but if not, take a step back – you have still done your part.

2.) Have an elevator pitch practiced and ready for when you are placed in such social situations.

Have a quick response prepared so that when you are provided with the opportunity to network with a hiring manager, your response flows naturally. Your statement should be short and sweet, yet detailed. For example:

I’m a Marketing Manager with 12 years of experience running integrated campaigns for some national brands. I have taken a little over a year off to stay home with my daughter, but am ready for the full-time work force and actively seeking a new position.

It is acceptable to inquire about any present or future openings, politely asking for them to keep you in mind. You can even follow up by providing a copy of your resume or connecting with them on LinkedIn.

3.) When contacting a hiring manager online, be courteous.

If you are on LinkedIn, make sure your profile is optimized by utilizing various keywords, listing accomplishments and work history, and obtaining recommendations from past and present colleagues. When ready, follow various companies of interest and join numerous industry specific groups to help expand your network. You can then connect with hiring managers by saying:

Hi Denise,

I am reaching out to others within my industry and thought it made sense for us to connect. Open to new opportunities – 10+ years of successful marketing experience. Appreciate your time!

Best Regards,
Dana

4.) Be mindful of what not to say…

Never speak ill of a past or present employer. Your search for a job (if employed) is merely because you are interested in new opportunities, or changes happening within your current company. Anything otherwise would be viewed as a red flag.

If you are having trouble networking, or with your job search overall, my comprehensive training program at The Job Search School can provide you with a personalized job search plan, as well as with the tools necessary to land your dream job. In the words of Nelson Mandela, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

To a successful job search!

You Left a Job on Bad Terms, Now What Do You Do in the Interview?

Let’s be honest. Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, and neither is work. Your last job was not a great fit, and you didn’t exactly leave on the best of terms. You quit abruptly or were fired; and, after a brief “9 To 5” empowerment moment, feel a bit concerned about your future. I get it, I do. No one wants things to end negatively, but it happens often.

Here’s the good news: there is no bad news! What’s done is done, and you can now move on. Best of all, this is NOT the end of your career or of life as you know it. People leave jobs or are terminated from positions each and every day, and they still continue to thrive!

If you left your job on bad terms, and are a bit unsure about what to tell a potential employer, don’t be. Here are 3 tips to handle your interview with ease:

1.) Be Honest

You have always been told, “Honesty is the best policy,” but when it comes to an interview, “Honesty is the ONLY policy”. If you are caught lying about your previous position, it could cost you the job. This does not mean your chances of impressing a recruiter or hiring manager are slim. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Being honest, while remaining respectful, is the best way to demonstrate that you are in fact a trustworthy, dedicated employee.

2.) Be Positive

While honesty is an integral part of being able to interview well, negativity is not. It is important that you never speak poorly about your previous employer. Find a way to gently (and positively) spin the experience so that you are respectful of your former boss and company, while getting the message across. A seasoned hiring manager or recruiter will be able to read between the lines and understand the situation with great clarity. For example:

I am deeply appreciative for my time at XYZ Tech; however, there were several changes in staff, leadership, and priorities — I was concerned about the company’s stability long-term, and my ability to grow. When I realized the funding wasn’t available for the most recent project we were working on, and I wouldn’t be provided with the tools necessary to ensure the project’s success, I became increasingly concerned. My manager, Tara, made the most of the situation, but I did feel it was time to move on.

In other words: The company was not stable, there were countless changes, and I was not provided the support needed to do my job well, so – I quit!

3.) Be Comfortable

I recommend thinking of specific questions (some that may even be a little challenging) and practicing your response. Preparing your answers in advance by rehearsing them will help you feel comfortable when having these difficult conversations, rather than stumbling because you feel caught off guard.

If you are unsure how to develop your message, or are having a difficult time learning how to position yourself, give me a call. My comprehensive training program at The Job Search School will provide you with a personalized approach to help make your dream job a reality.

In the words of Helen Keller, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” So, pick your head up! By remaining honest, positive, and comfortable, you will be able to move forward in your career, and find a position that aligns well with your goals.

To a new opportunity!