Journal of Office Workers
Archive for October 29, 2014
Why You Need to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
Originally posted on TIME:
This article originally appeared on Entrepreneur.com.
I absolutely love my job. I almost feel like life isn’t real. That’s how much I love it. I have fun, flexibility and I’m working in the industry of my dreams.
Yet I just accepted a new job. Let me elaborate. A few weeks ago, I was invited to interview for a new position. Several days later, I was offered the job. This unleashed a world of struggle inside me because I love my current job.
I’ve been at this company for a little over a year now, and it’s been an amazing experience. I have learned a lot and grown as a person. I’ve been fortunate enough to have a mentor who has guided me and propelled me along. And I’ve had flexibility: I can, for the most part, work the schedule I set for myself. There’s something invaluable about that.
So…
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5 The Moments, Ice Parlour At Tajong Pagar
Originally posted on NAHMJ:
One more Ice Parlour is added to the growing number in Singapore.
I was excited when I spotted this ice cream parlour along Tanjong Pagar. It’s in between my work place and home. I can pop by on my way home when I crave for ice cream. Lol. Without doubt I will certainly give it a try.
After trying several flavours, I settled for the Hazelnut. The ice cream resembles gelato texture. It is slightly chewy, smooth, creamy and milky. The taste of the flavours is more concentrated and focus. So you tend to get a stronger fragrance. Some of the ice cream is pretty sweet, especially so for the coconut.
As all ice cream parlour, they too offer waffles, I will try it at my next trip. And some coffee.
5 The Moment seems to deliver some mix of local and Europe Vintage style…
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Milk & Honey, Yogurt Parfait, At City Square Mall
Originally posted on NAHMJ:
One after another frozen yogurt stores is up and running in Singapore. This round, it is the Milk & Honey, set out of a kiosk at Level 2 of City Square Mall.
The colour theme is mainly yellow with some black and white. Lots of cushy chairs, pretty comfy.
Besides the yogurt parfait, Milk & Honey serves some delicious looking cakes too and of course some coffee as well.
Still in the soft launch so only three signature parfaits are available; Matcha, Royal Honey and Healthy Mix.
Alternatively, you can Design your own Parfait. Meantime, it is still not available.
I was keen to try the Royal Honey. There are quite a number of toppings on the Parfait. Right on the top is the White Chocolate Parfait, a White Chocolate Biscuit Stick and an Orange Chip. Honey Popcorn surrounded the yogurt…
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Located almost in the darkness by itself at night, we would never have come to Laurent’s Cafe if not for the marketing efforts of the organisers of the SIngapore Restaurant Week 2014. During the period from 25 October to 2 November 2014, around 80 restaurants participate in the event, offering three-course meals at fixed prices. In turn, the organisers crank up the marketing blitz and hungry patrons like us sign up online and try out places which we would ordinarily not think of going.
Laurent’s Cafe is located along the narrow and winding Portsdown Road. In the day, the place may be busy with the occupants of the nearby buildings. But at night, it is a lonely restaurant lighting up the darkness. It is a small, basic restaurant run by a pleasant, multi-tasking Frenchman who greets, guests, takes orders and serves food and drinks. For restaurant week 2014, it offers a three-course dinner menu at $35. It is a simple menu with just two choices for both the starter and main course.
3 LinkedIn Strategies For Escaping Your Crummy Job
Let’s be honest with each other. The reason you’re updating your LinkedIn profile is because you’re sick of your job.
Related: How LinkedIn Endorsements Can Improve Your Job Search Efforts
You’re somewhere between “I need to get the ____ out of here” and “I’m starting to consider other options.”
We’ve all been there.
But here’s the common problem: We want out so badly that we’ll update as much as we can as quickly as we can - and then quickly start researching and applying for other jobs.
The pain, anger, frustration… whatever you want to call it… drives us. And it causes us to make less-than-optimal decisions.
That’s ok though… because the first step to earning a higher income and being happier at work is realizing that a change needs to be made. And you’re the only person who can do it.
Here’s How To Escape Your Crummy Job
First, take a breath. Trust that you’re on your way to something better.
Next, realize that it’s smarter to take the time and do a great job of updating your profile now than it is to do a mediocre job and get your name out there quicker.
You don’t want your next job to be as bad - or even just a little better than your current position.
Utilize These 3 Powerful LinkedIn Strategies
You want to get the best job possible, as quickly as possible. Here’s how to optimize your LinkedIn profile to do that:
1. Use Critical Keywords
These are terms that accurately describe your skills and the job title you’re seeking.
Think of it this way: If a potential employer were to read your LinkedIn profile after you applied for a job, what words would they be looking for to best suit the position?
Also, what words would a recruiter search for if they were trying to find someone for the position you’re seeking?
By including these critical keywords throughout your LinkedIn profile, you will increase your chances of getting an interview. Plus, they’ll help you get found by recruiters.
Dream job, here you come.
2. Use A Headline That Sells
What looks better to you?
“CEO & Managing Director.”
Or…
“CEO & Managing Director – Building High Performing Sales Teams that Align With Corporate Values.”
It’s obvious. The 2nd headline is better, by far. Simply model your headline after this structure, and include keywords you want to be found for. This simple change will significantly impact your ability to get noticed.
3. Get Credible Recommendations
It’s a truth of human nature. We believe credible people’s opinions about other people.
It’s why you see so many advertisements with celebrities or doctors. In the public’s eye, they’re credible.
And in your future employers eye - your past employers, co-workers, teachers, mentors, and even mentees can provide valuable information about your skills, experience, and attitude.
So, ask for some recommendations touching on these points from credible people in your network. They’ll do wonders for helping you get the job that will make you the happiest and provide the highest income possible.
And if you want a little extra help with finding and getting your next job, check out my free video here.
It contains three practical job seeking tips I learned from my mentor that helped me get my dream job years ago.
Related Posts
How To Get A Recruiter’s Attention On LinkedIn
7 Tips For Writing A Great LinkedIn Invitation
4 Things Employers Look For In LinkedIn And Resume Comparison
About the author
Ryan Niessen is a keynote speaker and co-creator of The Gateway Method: a simple, proven way to gain inside access to the world’s best employers and get your dream job. Connect with him on LinkedIn or Facebook.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by a CAREEREALISM-approved expert. You can learn more about expert posts here.
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How Millennials Can Help Bridge The Workplace Generation Gap
Employees in their 20s often find themselves working side-by-side with people old enough to be their parents and grandparents. Misunderstandings, lapses in communication, and other symptoms of the workplace generation gap are bound to happen.
Related: 6 Things You Need To Know About Onboarding Millennials
Here are examples of four classic challenging scenarios that arise, along with some effective ways younger, less experienced employees can get along with older co-workers-and foster peaceful coexistence and camaraderie in the process.
Scenario #1
As the young newbie in the office, you’re finding it hard to “break in” to the old girls’ club. They huddle, make decisions, and even go out to lunch together-all without you. Should you confront them, or will that just make it worse?
Solution: Tackle the group members one at a time. Invite the most approachable member of the group to meet for coffee before work one day. If that succeeds, invite another member for lunch. You may discover that the next time the gals get together, you’ll be included.
Lesson: Rather than confronting an entrenched tradition head-on, divide and conquer. Patience is a virtue, and change doesn’t happen overnight.
Scenario #2
A well-respected senior at the company gives slow, plodding, roundabout instructions to your team, and you’re pretty sure there’s a faster way and better way to do the task. Should you suggest a more efficient alternative, or is that presumptuous?
Solution: Go ahead and do it his way-you need him on your side. But once the task is finished and you’ve analyzed the entire process, ask to meet with him so you can share your idea. After he sees what a diligent worker and team player you are, he’ll be more open to hearing about the app you know about that will help the team do it in half the time.
Lesson: Sometimes it’s more important to let an older co-worker save face than to do things your way. Because you demonstrated respect, he may consult you for ideas next time around.
Scenario #3
The elderly vice president is fond of standing by your desk and rambling on and on about the pre-computer days, while you’re trying to get work done. Should you interrupt him or politely excuse yourself?
Solution: Hear him out. Old-timers make great allies and mentors, which can benefit your new career. One subtle way to let him know you have to get back to work is to say, “I’d love to hear more about those classic ads we used to run. Some time when I’m not on such a killer deadline, could you maybe show some of them to me? I think we could adapt them for social media.”
Lesson: Elderly co-workers can be valuable fonts of knowledge. Be respectful and you might just learn something.
Scenario #4
Your boss gives you assignments that are boring and too easy. You don’t want to seem impatient or ungrateful. Will she think you’re an upstart if you complain?
Solution: Do the work efficiently. Once you’ve finished in an hour what she figured would take you all day, knock on her door and say something like, “Hi, do you have a minute? I’ve completed the job, and I’d be happy to tackle something that’s really challenging or take on something you’ve dreaded getting started on.”
Lesson: By showing you boss that you’re helpful and self-motivated, she will probably keep you in mind for future projects.
This is a guest post.
Related Posts
8 Ways To Beat Millennial Stereotypes And Win Over Employers
Why Millennials Aren’t Really Lazy
Taking Mom To A Job Interview: A Crutch Or Smart Move?
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
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3 Tips For Acing An Informational Interview
I’m the career version of the woman who meets someone great who is single and immediately starts thinking about people she knows who would be a good match for them. No, I won’t help you find your one true love, but I get a charge out of helping great people find great jobs.
Watch: How To Stop Being Random With Your Networking Efforts
An informational interview is a great way to get your foot in the door. I am frequently asked for them. And, while I cannot accommodate all of the requests, when I do sit down across from someone and everything goes right, I sometimes get a faraway look while I scan my mental Rolodex for people I know who might want to hire this person.
What is it that makes “everything go right” from my point of view? How can you up your chances that I will be sending you back out of my office with solid tips for improving your resume and promising leads for a next job?
1. Treat It Like A Real Interview - Except Don’t Ask For A Job
Dress professionally, arrive on time, and greet me with a smile, handshake, and eye contact. Talk about what you are looking for and what your qualifications are. Bring your resume for feedback on how to make it better. If you’re in my office, be there for business.
Don’t ramble about your move to Los Angeles or tell me about your roommate problems. I may seem interested, but if I’ve got a tight schedule, that’s going to cut into the amount of time I can spend giving you career guidance. Plus, it will impact whether I refer you to another busy executive for an informational interview (or a real job interview). I don’t want to risk wasting anyone else’s time.
2. Let Me Know You Value And Appreciate My Time
Yes, following the advice in item number one will do this, but you also want to express gratitude for the opportunity to sit down with me. In addition, know something about my career path, if possible and what my company does. Ask questions that reflect that knowledge. It’s okay to have questions about my company or my job, but there’s a big difference between the kind of questions you would ask after doing Internet research on me and my company and the kind of questions you would ask instead of doing Internet research.
Even though you are not interviewing for a job, everything you do in this interview is telling me what kind of employee you would be. This is your opportunity to get my wheels churning. “Personable, attentive, does his homework… I wonder if we have any openings coming up – or maybe so-and-so needs a good new hire…”
3. Figure Out How I Can Help You - And How I Can’t Help You
This is where you put into action number two. If you’re dying to work for a company I used to work at or you want to work in an area where you know I have expertise, you can jump right in. If my wheels are churning, this kind of specificity will help me focus my thinking.
One good way to bring up my previous company without asking me to help you get a job there (remember, this interview is for information, not a job) is to ask what it was like to work there. Similarly, to let me know your interest in an area I have a background in, say market research or mobile apps, express your interest and ask me about what changes have happened in the field since I was in it and where the opportunities are.
Conversely, if you have a simultaneous dream pursuit, such as acting or TV writing, but the stated topic of the interview was job information, mention the dream pursuit but don’t dwell on it. I don’t know anything about the quality of your writing or acting and I’m likely not in a position to get you a writing job or representation.
And, even if I’m an agent, if you did not get the interview to talk to me about representing you, it will feel like (and be!) bait and switch. If I’m interested in and able to help you with that aspect of your professional career, I will let you know.
It’s true that not everyone you have informational interviews with will have the same passion (or knack) for professional matchmaking as I do – and sometimes even I’m not in that mindset. But if you follow the above advice, you will have the best chance of getting something – a referral, a lead, or a key piece of guidance – out of your meeting. And even if all you seem to get is a handshake and a “good luck” now, in this ultra-connected world, an impressive informational interview now could be a referral or a job opportunity later.
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
Related Posts
5 Things To Ask In A Job Interview
How To Conduct An Effective Informational Interview
7 Secrets To A Successful Informational Interview
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
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What To Avoid When Designing And Writing A Cover Letter
Sometimes, fixing the little things can offer the most benefit. Anyone writing a cover letter to a hiring rep should follow some golden rules before hitting start on the fax machine, licking that envelope shut, or hitting “Send” on that e-mail.
Related: 7 Examples Of Fresh New Ways To Start Your Cover Letter
Treat your cover letter like any piece of business correspondence. It should have a professional appearance, a professional tone, and possess accurate grammar and punctuation.
Remember, you’re out to impress, not turn a job away. Your correspondence should command attention, and if it doesn’t, you’re virtually sabotaging the opportunities that took so long to uncover.
Before sending, be sure to review your cover letter thoroughly. You’re looking for amateur mistakes; the kinds your competitors are making. Below is a list of errors to avoid:
1. Avoid sloppy copy
Visually, your letter should appear consistent and the content should be “tight.” The first impression given to any hiring agent is based upon overall appearance of the letter. The cover letter is the first item seen before proceeding onto the resume. Should a letter arrive on a hiring manager’s desk without consistent margins, font, pica and without effective writing, your candidacy just may be “dead in the water.”
2. Avoid listing unrelated skills and qualifications
Weigh every sentence contained in your letter, and ask yourself two key questions. Does each sentence add to my candidacy? Am I fully relaying my quality and value without that particular sentence? If so, you probably don’t need that sentence in question. Mention only significant skills or achievements that pertain to your current position — or in accordance with the scope of the target position. Including irrelevant information can leave a negative impression, so be selective on what you list.
3. Avoid forgetting to input contact name
By failing to list the basics, like a contact name, you’re showing a lack of attention to detail; and possibly worse, allowing the document to float around the company rather than sitting on the right person’s desk — or in a general e-mail account currently neglected by an overworked secretary.
Yes, there are instances where a company doesn’t list a contact name within job postings. To ensure your resume and cover letter make it into the right hands, consider placing a call to the company or contacting your area Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce to find a proper name to place in your correspondence. Take care to include the proper spelling for the recipient’s name, and to include the correct position title.
4. Avoid forgetting to verify the company’s address
While scouring the Internet or reading your area’s newspaper, how many typos do you uncover? Never assume what’s listed is 100% accurate. In fact, assume the address is incorrect until you verify otherwise. Visit the company’s website or scan the yellow pages to ensure the address you list is perfect.
5. Avoid using an unprofessional layout; use an appropriate business format only
Business formatting has always meant your letter contains certain elements… examples are: current date, contact name, company address, regarding line (RE:), salutation, and signature line. You only need to review two or three letters from your own mailbox to identify common features contained within proper letter formats.
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
Related Posts
4 Inside Secrets To Writing A Great Cover Letter
5 Key Steps To A Cover Letter That Opens Doors
4 Rules For Every Resume
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
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The 25 Absolute Best Workplaces in the World
Originally posted on TIME:
This article originally appeared on Entrepreneur.com.
Of 6,200 companies across the globe boasting 11.9 million total employees, Google has been named 2014’s best workplace in the world.
For the third year in a row, the search giant topped the World’s Best Multinational Workplaces List unveiled today by global consulting firm Great Place to Work (GPTW). Other notable performers included Microsoft and Marriott (numbers 6 and 7, respectively), as well as eBay, 24, and Coca-Cola, 25.
While an employee survey regarding workplace culture comprised two-thirds of each company’s ranking, the other third was determined by a third-party assessment of company policies and practices. GPTW says its study is the largest of its kind.
Overall, the firm reported that levels of employee trust, camaraderie and pride had risen within top-performing companies — all of which are crucial factors in determining employee engagement and business success. “The best are getting better,” GPTW…
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