For most of us, success doesn’t just come out of nowhere. We have to work for it. Whether it’s at work or at home, we strive to be successful in everything we do.
Related: 7 Vital Habits Of The Successful Professional
This isn’t an easy task by any means. However, there are ways to meet your goals without driving yourself crazy.
Here are four ways to help you build success from scratch:
Changing your daily habits slowly rather than all at once increases the likelihood that you will maintain them. According to Fast Company contributor Laura Vanderkam, building habits takes time.
In her article “What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast,” she suggests taking on one new habit and building it into your routine before you start another habit. Makes sense, right?
Although having a positive mindset seems like a no-brainer, many people fall into the downward spiral of negative thinking. Instead of blaming yourself or others for your lack of success in life, try looking at things in a different perspective.
Geoffrey James touches on this concept in his column “Sales Source” for Inc. Magazine. He uses an example about how perfectionism, though it seems like a wonderful goal, is ultimately impossible to achieve.
When you realize you can’t achieve perfection, negative thoughts can overwhelm you and keep you from success. Instead, re-evaluate your goals and make them more manageable.
Yes, taking risks is a scary concept, but taking one once and awhile can be a smart thing to do. Risk takers can be success makers!
According to Fast Company‘s article “How To Quiet the Negative Thoughts That Are Killing Your Career,” the key is to be smart about your risks. Always weigh the benefits of a risk with the losses.
It’s a new world, so be a new leader. According to the blog The HR Capitalist, an old leader is very shut off from the world. It’s difficult for old leaders to accept mistakes and open up with others.
However, new leaders generally are more open, accept their mistakes, and consult their network for answers. Which one do you think is more successful?
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
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Did you know there are different types of job attitudes? Find out which one you are!
Related: How To Be More Likeable At Work: 10 Things To Do Today
Thinking and behaving (attitude) influence the world around us in ways obvious and not so apparent, but the effect is REAL, nonetheless. There are four basic kinds of people in business today. They can be best characterized by their attitudes:
A person can LOVE their job and may, read trade journals, spend hours over “working lunches/breaks,” have friends that are in the same industry, and also find time to seek out ways to even further improve work or business: By all appearances the MODEL worker – right?
WRONG. This employee, business owner, or consultant may miss opportunities by erroneously thinking that all their hard work, without a doubt will benefit them. Throwing oneself into work so fully and energetically can create blinders not only to unexpected pitfalls in the business arena, but may also keep one from fully experiencing personal opportunities. In short, all work and no play makes Jane a dull girl!
Perhaps this Jack or Jane takes a more pragmatic approach: The job as a means to an end. Working like a dog might mean more enjoyable periods of time off, the ability to pay the bills, travel, take vacations, and/or enjoy hobbies. Sometimes it is just the little things – pride in a job well done, being responsible, just being a contributing member of society in general!
Still, there is room for growth and self-examination. A job, business, or current opportunity (while it lasts!) can provide one with the basics, maybe more. Sure life is good, but, in the current climate, one must be prepared for the unexpected.
Again it does not matter the title – owner, worker, consultant, whatever. Folks in this category may bark out orders whenever possible, complain constantly, frown consistently, and criticize coworkers, boss, company in general. One wonders not how they are able to bring themselves to get out of bed in the morning, but why they are allowed to!
Typically, a person with this type of attitude has too much time and energy wrapped up in expressing these negative feelings that seem to build and explode in a never-ending torrent to consider opportunities. Blindfolded, often opportunities and anything else that could be construed as positive are missed.
Most readers will admit to knowing at least one of this type, who can be summed up by their perpetual query, “Why am I here?” They often call in sick whenever possible (especially when not), spend more time on personal business than work, miss meetings, deadlines, and are frequently late/miss work.
This guy or gal is seldom a boss, but sometimes people get lucky and own businesses run effectively by the sweat of others! Regardless, one is left to wonder who benefits from this person showing up on the “job.” Potential is buried by lack of caring and activity. Talk about hiding one’s light under a bushel! Opportunities are not only not recognized by this type, but are literally pushed aside…
Think about your attitude about work now. How is it affecting you and your opportunities – are you prepared to make a change if you need to? Who are you as an owner, employee, boss, or consultant? How do you present to others? Creating an up to date curriculum vitae or resume help you develop a clear statement of who you are and what you have to offer to customers, employees, employers or bosses. In short, it can help you develop your own personal brand that can make you stand head and shoulders above others in your field.
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
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One of the reasons that I offer this free blog on resume writing is to explain what goes into a great resume.
Related: 10-Minute Transformation: Give Your Resume A Power Punch!
Another reason is to give back where I can: to help people who are trying to write their own resumes.
Free resume help is also available from the public library, many high school and college career centers, and some nonprofits.
If you are a DIY resume writer:
1. Do not let yourself get befuddled with advice. There are dozens of ways to write a good resume and all of them are valid. Limit the number of books you consult on resume writing and the number of people you ask for opinions.
2. Remember that free advice is generic advice: it does not take into account your accomplishments, your goals and the job you want. Customize your resume to you.
3. Try to see your resume through the eyes of an employer. Amateur writers tend to love and believe in everything that they write. How you feel about your resume is not half as important as how a future employer feels.
4. Do not try to “beat the system” or “stand out” by using quirky fonts, colors, keyword spam, QR codes or any other attention-getting devices. What recruiters and hiring managers want most is a resume that is clear, accurate, easy to load into an Applicant Tracking System and a match for the skills, experience and attitudes they are looking for. That is enough to concentrate on!
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
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Today, more and more employers are conducting phone interviews before inviting job candidates to an in-person meeting. With more applicants available for each opening, employers do not have the time to invest in a meeting for every candidate that simply looks good on paper. Phone interviews make it easier to screen a candidates.
Related: Top 3 Tips For Phone Interviews
Some of these phone interviews may include standard questions that ask about facts, such as your experience and any specific skills you have. However, there are also employers who dive right into some of the most challenging questions, such as giving you a scenario and asking for your response and plan to handle the situation described.
As a job applicant, there are benefits and disadvantages to a phone interview. Some people are well-spoken and are great on the phone, but in person, their nervousness gets to them. Some are more comfortable speaking in-person and lack personality on the phone. Under both situations, it can be a challenge when you don’t have feedback that may typically appear through face-to-face contact.
Regardless of the situation, you need to put your best voice forward to leave the employer with a good impression. This may be the only shot you have at getting a step closer to securing a job offer with them. Remember that the employer may change their mind about inviting you in for an interview if you fall short of their expectations or leave a negative impression on the phone.
Note that in a phone interview, your intonation is most important in how you come across, so you should be energetic and enthusiastic and change your tone to better engage the interviewer. You should also be prepared to ask some basic questions, although save the big ones for a formal interview.
Take the tips offered here to help put your best voice forward and further advance on an opportunity to a job offer:
Phone interviews may not always be scheduled. An employer may call you to respond to your submitted cover letter and resume, and the moment you pick up the phone an interview may occur right then. Most employers will be courteous to first ask you if this is a good time, but that does not always happen.
So, if you believe there is a chance an employer may be calling, be prepared by providing a professional greeting on your voicemail or when you pick up. Also be conscious of what the caller may hear in the background if you pick up the phone. If it’s not an appropriate time or place to talk, let it go to voicemail, but try to call back immediately when it is more appropriate for you to talk.
Since the interviewer will not see your face, all they have to work off of is the voice you present, so make sure it sounds enthusiastic and energized with confidence. Try keeping a smile on your face as you talk and be aware of your tone and pitch so you do not come off sounding monotone.
Keep a “can do” attitude when you talk. It will leave a more positive impression than if an employer were to hear, “I can’t,” “I don’t,” or “I haven’t.” Also be conscious of how you speak, to avoid the “Ahs,” “Errs” and “Ums.” You can come across as unsure of yourself and lacking in confidence.
Many people list their cell phone number on job applications, cover letters and resumes, which is fine, as long as when the phone is answered you are under good reception. If you are the one initiating the phone call, use a landline to avoid static or dropped calls. It’s also important to find a quiet location where you will not be disturbed or distracted.
Keep in mind points that you can use to help explain how your previous experiences or skills make you a good fit for the open position. Also, always have questions in mind to ask during the interview that show your interest and desire to work with the company. Don’t forget to also keep your resume, a sheet of paper and pen on hand. You’ll need these items for reference or to take notes while on the call.
Interviews, whether in-person or over the phone, should end with an understanding of what the next steps are. If it was not covered, be sure to ask. The employer may also view this question in a positive way that you care about this opportunity and have a desire for it.
Remember, phone interviews deserve a follow up thank you note or e-mail to the individual(s) you spoke with – just as you would do after an in-person interview.
Treat phone interviews as important as a face-to-face interview. The impression you make on the phone will also be taken in to consideration when the employer is trying to decide between you and another candidate for the position.
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
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Don Goodman’s firm was rated as the #1 Resume Writing Service in 2013 & 2014. Don is a triple-certified, nationally recognized Expert Resume Writer, Career Management Coach and Job Search Strategist who has helped thousands of people secure their next job. Check out his Resume Writing Service. Get a Free Resume Evaluation or call him at 800.909.0109 for more information.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by a CAREEREALISM-approved expert. You can learn more about expert posts here.
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One of the first tasks of an effective job search is to research the labor market. Review job openings in your targeted area to determine:
But, what should you do if you find that jobs are available in your targeted area and the pay, education, and other requirements are a great match, but you are lacking one of the skills employers are looking for?
Related: 5 Transferable Skills Job Seekers Need
First, don’t panic! Do an assessment of where you are in relation to the skill in question – actually rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10. Chances are you know what the skill is or entails, at least.
Next, consider how best to obtain that skill. An Internet search will likely provide all the information you need. Enter “how do I obtain ___ skill” into a Google search field. You might be surprised at how much information is available.
Once you have a better idea of how to obtain the skill, set out to do so. Some common methods for obtaining new skills include:
If you need a very specialized skill that can only be obtained from an employer, then read all you can about the attributes and qualities necessary to obtain the skill and think about how you would go about developing this skill.
Finally, once you have started to develop the skill (or have a plan to do so), give some thought to how you will present this information to an employer so that you will be an attractive candidate.
In a cover letter, you might indicate that you are excited to be volunteering and increasing your skill with ____. Or, you could your knowledge about the missing skill and indicate how you plan to obtain this skill. Under Professional Development, you might list the course or book you are reading or auditing. You might even suggest an OJT in a cover letter or interview.
The bottom line – apply! Employers often print what amounts to a wish list of attributes they would like to find in a candidate, even if not realistic or necessary. Chances are if you are able to demonstrate that you have the bulk of the required skills and at least a plan to obtain the missing one, you will be given serious consideration.
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
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Mary Sherwood Sevinsky is a career and occupational consultant who is masters-prepared and certified. She is a business owner with nearly 20 years of experience in Corporate Management, Career Assessment & Counseling and in writing Career Articles and Educational Materials. She has worked as a corporate manager experienced in hiring, firing, and managing a staff of professionals with a multi-million dollar budget. Learn more about Mary and her services: www.life-works.info.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by a CAREEREALISM-approved expert. You can learn more about expert posts here.
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You hate job search. There isn’t one thing you like about it. But why? Hint: It’s the same reason you hated Zumba at first.
Related: 3 Tips For Landing A ‘Perfect Fit’ Job
Here’s the thing: when you’re learning something new, it can be frustrating because you don’t know everything and probably feel a little foolish. But, if you stick with it, it can be hugely rewarding.
Think about the first time you road a bike. It was scary. You didn’t know how to balance yourself. And you certainly didn’t know how to keep yourself upright for more than three seconds. But you stuck with it, even after struggling, and you eventually built up enough skill to kick off those training wheels and have dad let go of the handle bars. You got it, eventually. You just needed practice.
Now, think about your first time trying Zumba. You were so excited when you first got on the floor. But were you able to keep up with the class? Did you get all the steps the first time? Did it come easy to you?
(If it did, I’m super jealous.)
For many people, it takes at least three sessions to start getting the hang of it. But, you have to endure a few embarrassing moments before you can get to that point. If you give up before you get there, you’ll never learn. And even worse, you’ll never enjoy it.
(In fact, you might even become one of those people who hate Zumba solely because you weren’t amazing at it the first time. What a shame!)
Job search isn’t something most of us are used to doing. It’s not something we do on a weekly basis. We weren’t taught to do it in school. We never got a chance to hone our skills. We just have to go out there and wing it – and sometimes winging it can be frustrating.
That’s why job search can feel impossible sometimes. Because, like learning anything new, it’s hard at first. You don’t know all of the answers. You don’t know how to do everything right the first time. It takes practice.
So, just remember that next time you want to throw your computer out the window. You’re learning. Instead of quitting, find help. Here are three things you can do to improve:
Identify your weak areas. Figure out where you’re struggling and look for resources that will help you strengthen those areas. There are plenty of resources available that help with interviewing, cover letters, resumes, and so on. Here are a few career resources we offer.
Get a career coach. You’ve been coached your entire life – from learning how to ride a bike to learning how to play football to learning how to do math. Your career is a big part of your life (in fact, you spend about a third of your life working), why wouldn’t you get a coach for that? Check out CareerHMO.com for virtual career coaching services.
Practice each day. Don’t avoid your job search responsibilities because you don’t enjoy them. Practice makes perfect. Make yourself a plan and stick with it. Check out this article to help you get started.
I know it’s hard to hear, but if you want to find a great job, there aren’t any shortcuts. Sitting on the computer staring at job postings all day and blindly sending out resumes won’t do you any good. You need to learn how to job search effectively and efficiently.
Now, go out there, learn how to job search, and get the job you want!
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The post #1 Reason You Hate Job Search (It’s The Same Reason You Hated Zumba) appeared first on CAREEREALISM.
Who said job search had to be a huge downer? Not me!
Related: 3 Tips For Landing A ‘Perfect Fit’ Job
For most of us, job search is a part of life. It’s something we all have to deal with at some point - like jury duty. But that doesn’t mean we can’t allow ourselves to be happy until we find a job. Your job search could take weeks - likely months - and life is just too short be unhappy that whole time!
Yes, it’s possible to be happy AND to be looking for a job. Here are seven habits of happy job seekers:
It can be difficult to keep focused and stay on track if you don’t have a strategic plan in place for your job search. Think about your goals and what you need to do to accomplish those goals. Get specific. Give yourself deadlines. Make yourself get out of your comfort zone. Having this plan will motivate you to keep moving forward.
If you need help setting goals for yourself, click here to learn how to set S.M.A.R.T Goals.
Make sure you’re eating healthy. A bad diet can contribute to depression and fatigue. Make sure you’re getting your vitamins, eating your greens, and getting your protein.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep at night. Staying up all night scouring the job boards while you’re tired and unfocused isn’t going to get you any closer than if you waited to do some research in the morning when you’re refreshed.
If you think you’re feeling blue as a result of exhaustion, take a nap. Like my mom always says, “When you’re tired, everything looks black.” Take a quick snooze and recharge your battery.
Sitting in front of a computer all day isn’t going to give you the energy and endorphins you need to maintain a happy, focused job search. Dedicate a time each day for exercise. If you have a hard time getting away from your job search tasks, make 30 minutes of daily exercise part of your job search plan.
Try to get outside for at least 30 minutes a day. A few minutes in the sun can do wonders (it’s especially important during the winter to help you fight off seasonal depression). Not only that, but the fresh air will do you good. So, bundle up and get outside!
You should always send a thank you note after an interview, but it’s also a great idea to send a good ol’ fashion thank you note to someone this holiday season. No one sends thank you notes anymore, but they’re always a nice thing to receive – and you feel great after you’ve written one for someone. If you start feeling down, thank someone for something they did for you. It will remind you of the support system you have and make you feel good.
It’s so easy to alienate yourself during a frustrating job search, but it’s important to make time for family and friends. Schedule coffee dates, movie nights at someone’s house, and walks with friends. Make sure you do things that get you out of the house and hanging out with people a few times a week.
Create a playlist of all of the songs that make you happy, want to dance, or just make you smile. Avoid the negative, sad songs that bring your mood down. My playlist is simply called “Happy,” and I play it whenever I’m feeling down. It definitely brightens my mood and gets me motivated again. (Songs include: “I Love It” by Icona Pop, “You Are What You Love” by Kelleigh Bannen, and “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift).
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Let’s make things clear: It’s impossible for everyone in the workplace to be your close friend. It’s possible, however, to grow positive working relationships with them. So, what do we mean when we say positive relationships?
Related: How To Be More Likeable At Work: 10 Things To Do Today
Every employee dreams of working in an environment where positivity resonates. Where people are supportive of each other. Where you feel motivated to work hard, not to mention score a perfect attendance, because your colleagues are encouraging.
We all aspire to be apart of a team made up of awesome people. How do you ensure now, that you, yourself, are a good colleague to your teammates?
You know you need to attract pleasant treatment before you receive it. With that, here are a few tips for becoming the co-worker everyone loves:
Remember the golden rule? Don’t do to others what you don’t want others do unto you. This also rings true in the workplace.
If you treat people around you coldly, and refuse to share even a smile, then you could as well expect your colleagues to seem distant.
Although people will have varying attitudes, they can still work together well. It takes open-mindedness to survive and thrive in such environment. So, learn to look past differences. Accept others as they are. Show kindness. It will be returned in situations you need it the most.
It is easy to live on your own while in the workplace - minding your own tasks, limiting talks with your colleagues and going straight to home after work. Your motivation to go to office everyday is the paycheck you receive. You comply to what you’re told to do, but do not really extend efforts going beyond what is expected of you.
If there’s anything you want to explore in addition to the tasks assigned to you, let your boss know. Volunteer to assist your colleagues who might be able to use extra hands.
If the resources given you are not enough, then take the initiative looking for more. Consult your colleagues; ask your boss. Nobody wants someone who depends on spoon feeding.
They can sometimes be difficult. They, sometimes, reach out to the team as though they’re on the same rank with them.
Bosses are not created equal. They may be using different approaches to inspire their team. There are times when you would find their rules too stringent, or perhaps lax.
However, they act. Remember, they are your superiors, your leaders. Even if, at times, you might find their behavior uncalled for, never speak negatively about them to your colleagues.
If there is anything you need to say, tell it straight to them. This is not to say that you smarm your boss, however, it would help that they have a positive impression toward you.
How do you look at your workplace? Is it something you see as a battlefield, with all your colleagues as your enemies? Is it a place you call your second home with people you deem as your other family? Is it a haunted mansion with everyone around acting like zombies?
It’s okay to be competitive. But to aspire for progress so much that you’re already building barriers from your colleagues can be harmful.
You are a team still, and to get ahead doesn’t mean you’d need to leave people behind or hanging. Do your best while reaching out in any way you can to your colleagues.
This post was originally published at an earlier date.
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