As a part of my own job search I read a lot of articles about things like networking, cover letters, resumes, interviews, etc. One thing I try to do to help others in the same boat is by aggregating these into my on-going series of “Article Aggregate” posts. For reference, I try to post one of these about every two weeks or so.
If your material is mentioned here – and there are a lot of people whose good work I try to capture – please RT this broadcast to reach and help others. (And if I have your article here but didn’t tweet to you to announce its inclusion, it means I couldn’t find your twitter handle.)
If you contact one of the people / organizations mentioned because of my post (e.g., a resume consultant, a job search coach, etc.) please tell them you heard about them through me.
If you tweet one of the links here specifically, please include me in your tweet (i.e., by adding “via @davidhuntpe” to the tweet) – and consider following me: @davidhuntpe
Please check out my Original Essays; shares welcomed and encouraged.
In general, if you like what you see please spread the word about my blog: https://davidhuntpe.wordpress.com
If you are in New England, please check out my JOBS in New England compilations.
(Plug: If you really like this aggregate – and consider that I put several hours into each of these! – please check out my SRG page; buy from my affiliates who pay me a commission. If you’re not feeling commercial, consider giving to one of the charities I support. Or take a look at the kind of places I’m looking for work – perhaps you know someone, or know someone who knows someone, who works there; an introduction would be welcomed! And please consider that I have broadened my geographical search area.)
Thanks!
David Hunt, PE
*****
SHAMELESS SELF-PROMOTION
In shameless self-promotion mode, I’m putting links to the last two essays I’ve published here at the top. Reverse-chronological order. These will, of course, change as I publish new ones.
So… my last two original essays:
Dinner Guests from History
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/dinner-guests-from-history-david-hunt-pe
** In which I answer one of my own “penetrating questions”. (Insights into yours truly.)
What’s Wrong With This Picture?
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/whats-wrong-picture-david-hunt-pe
** Why can’t so many good people find jobs?
And I’m going to, at random, hype an essay from earlier on – changing every time:
Visiting Suppliers
https://davidhuntpe.wordpress.com/2014/03/05/visiting-suppliers-a-critical-part-of-a-business/
`** Three examples of why visiting suppliers, whether prospective, established, or best-in-class, is a very good idea.
=====
TOP OF THE FOLD
How to Fix the 12 Reasons Your Job Search Is So Long
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-fix-12-reasons-your-job-search-so-long-joanne-meehl
** A very good list, insofar as it applies to factors you can control. Sort-of related:
5 Strategies To Keep Your Job Search Momentum Going
http://mymarketability.com/blog/5-strategies-to-keep-your-job-search-momentum-going
** Do something, even if only one thing, every day. More:
If You Want To Fail, Do Absolutely Nothing
http://debsylee.com/social-media-fail/
** And flipping to the negative:
How You May Be Subconsciously Sabotaging Your Job Search
http://www.simplyhired.com/blog/jobsearch/job-search-tips/subconsciously-sabotaging-job-search/
Are You Sabotaging Your Chances For A Job Or Promotion?
http://www.careerwomaninc.com/2015/06/are-you-sabotaging-your-chances-for-a-job-or-promotion/
You are conducting a lazy job search!
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/you-conducting-lazy-job-search-lavie-margolin
—
This Formula Gets You Hired Every Time.
http://forwardmotioncareers.com/blog/this-formula-gets-you-hired-every-time/
** Really good advice from Marcia.
—
Leaving The Nest – Surviving Layoffs
http://work911.com/articles/layoffs.htm
** Control what you can, adjust to what you cannot.
—
Temporary, Part-Time and Volunteer Jobs: How Do They Fit on My Resume?
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140710134117-512381-temporary-part-time-and-volunteer-jobs-how-do-they-fit-on-my-resume
** Very relevant in today’s economy where people are taking temporary and/or contract jobs to try and make ends meet. And related, by the same author:
Transition Resumes: Consultant to Employee
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/transition-resumes-consultant-employee-robin-schlinger
** And related to the long-term unemployed:
Top tips to improve your employability after a long term career break
http://www.theemployable.com/index.php/2015/01/29/top-tips-to-improve-your-employability-after-a-long-term-career-break/
—
6 Ways to Learn About a Company’s Culture
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/03/6-ways-to-learn-about-a-companys-culture
** Spot-on. A company’s culture can make or break you. And this is useful in a reverse-engineering sort of way:
Choosing a Business Partner? 4 Qualities to Look For
http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/8116-co-founder-qualities.html
And here are my thoughts on investigating a company:
Cultural Splinters
https://davidhuntpe.wordpress.com/2013/09/08/cultural-splinters/
** And more thoughts on things to consider about a company:
10 Creative Ways to Choose Your Next Employer
http://epiccareering.com/10-creative-ways-to-choose-your-next-employer/
12 Things You Wish You’d Known Before You Took the Job — Infographic
http://www.avidcareerist.com/2013/04/02/12thing/
How to find the right company culture for you
http://blog.mypeoplebiz.com/2015/05/how-to-find-the-right-company-culture-for-you/
** And on the researching-the-company topic in general:
How to research a company before your job interview
http://advice.careerbuilder.com/posts/how-to-research-a-company-before-your-job-interview
10 Surprising Websites and 2 Secret Places Where You Can Research Employers
http://epiccareering.com/10-surprising-websites-and-2-secret-places-where-you-can-research-employers/
—
5 Mistakes that Managers Commit When Hiring
http://www.recruitingblogs.com/profiles/blogs/5-mistakes-that-managers-commit-when-hiring
** This is interesting, as it gives insights into how you can anticipate issues they may have and answer them without their even asking.
—
3 Early Bird Tactics to Uncover New Sales Opportunities
http://www.jillkonrath.com/sales-blog/early-bird-sales-tactics
** Several lessons applicable to the sales job you, as a job-seeker, are in: selling yourself.
—
Top Five Articles Job Seekers Need to Read This Week June 15, 2015
http://acaciahrsolutions.com/top-five-articles-job-seekers-need-to-read-this-week-june-15-2015/
** Worth perusing.
—
How your personality can help you land or lose a job
http://www.keppiecareers.com/personality-can-help-land-lose-job/
** I’ve run into a few people whose strong personality cost them a job offer.
=====
PICKS FOR CAREER RESOURCES
A Plus Career and Resume
http://www.careerandresume.com/resources/index.htm
** Some great resources, plus list of other sites, here.
—
Graduate Recruitment Bureau
http://www.grb.uk.com/graduate-job-advice
** Another collection of resources; aimed at newer graduates but useful for all.
—
Career Solvers
http://www.careersolvers.com/blog/
** Look along the left – lots of stuff.
—
IntellegoJobs
http://intellegojobs.intellego-publishing.com/
** Look here for job listings.
—
Jobs Blog
http://www.experience.com/entry-level-jobs/category/careers/jobs/
** A bunch of useful articles.
—
HR Culture Club
http://www.hrcultureclub.com/category/uncategorized/
** A slew of advice articles.
—
EvilHRLady
http://evilhrlady.org/
** Good commentary. (And I love the blog name.)
=====
FOR OLDER WORKERS
8 major job-search changes for older workers
http://thingscareerrelated.com/2015/03/22/7-major-job-search-changes-for-older-workers/
** It’s a whole new world.
—
America Is Unready for the Era of the Aging Worker
http://www.nextavenue.org/america-unready-era-aging-worker/
** Not only unready, but increasingly shunting them into a “Logan’s Run” existence.
—
The 50+ Worker: Talented, Needed, But Not Yet In Demand
http://encore.org/uncategorized/the-50-worker-talented-needed-but-not-yet-in-demand/
** Especially note the part about older workers being more stable. Leverage that. Related:
5 Ways to Beat Age Discrimination in Hiring
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/18/5-ways-to-beat-age-discrimination-in-hiring
—
Reinventing Your Career? 5 Steps To Assess Your Transferable Skills
http://www.careerealism.com/assess-transferable-skills-career/
** Not just for older workers, but particularly relevant to them.
—
Show Your Experience Like Fine Wine
http://www.organicresumecreations.com/#!Show-Your-Experience-Like-Fine-Wine/c16g1/556670040cf248741761f1d9
** And another piece by the same author:
Are you More or Less than 40 Years Old?
http://www.organicresumecreations.com/#!Are-you-More-or-Less-than-40-Years-Old/c16g1/A0327F8C-6D68-4CCE-B5B7-C6DC8EF4D9E3
** And related:
9 Real Reasons Overqualified Job Seekers are Rejected
https://jobmob.co.il/blog/reasons-overqualified-job-seekers-are-rejected/
** Often, many of these objections can be handled by proactively changing the game:
The “O” Word 2
https://davidhuntpe.wordpress.com/2013/12/26/the-o-word-2/
** More on this:
Overqualified?
http://one2oneresumes.com.au/overqualified/
—
Covert Discrimination: What You Need to Know About Coded Job Listings
http://www.payscale.com/career-news/2015/06/covert-discrimination-what-you-need-to-know-about-coded-job-listings
** IMHO, short of a discreet recording device and an inadvertent comment, you’ll have a hard time proving something. (Note: this is not a recommendation to carry such a device!)
—
Overcoming Ageism in Your Executive Job Search
https://www.bluesteps.com/blog/overcome-ageism-executive-job-search.aspx
** It’s there. From the same site:
Top 10 Job Search Strategies for Executives Over 40
https://www.bluesteps.com/blog/top-10-job-search-strategies-for-executives-over-40.aspx
** You cannot ignore it. But you can overcome it. And you must not let its existence paralyze you.
—
What Senior Job Candidates Should Know Before Applying
http://thecareercafe.co.uk/blog/?p=9660#sthash.Tlv3iy48.dpuf
** Can you use these to differentiate yourself from the younger crowd?
=====
NETWORKING
Networking Is Over. Welcome Sweatworking?
http://www.fastcompany.com/3047240/how-to-be-a-success-at-everything/networking-is-over-welcome-sweatworking
** If it gets you out and meeting people, that’s a good thing, regardless of the venue.
—
Bypass HR: 3 Steps to Connecting Internally to a Company
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bypass-hr-3-steps-connecting-internally-company-kristin-sherry
** Some nice tips to try and get around the gatekeepers.
—
3 Rules of Business Card Etiquette
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/01/3-rules-of-business-card-etiquette
** And make it something a person can write on… nothing more frustrating than meeting a potential “great contact” and wanting to make some notes on the card – and the shiny cardstock won’t let your pen make a mark!
—
10 Killer Networking Questions That Spark Meaningful Conversation
http://mymarketability.com/blog/10-killer-networking-questions-that-spark-meaningful-conversation
** Especially good for people leaning towards introversion, and/or in situations where you know nobody. (I tend to use #1 a lot.)
—
Red Lobster President Explains Why You Should Never Eat Lunch Alone
http://jobs.aol.com/articles/2015/06/16/red-lobster-president-never-eat-lunch-alone/
** Networking is a life-long thing. Don’t ignore it once you land… and if you land, create good karma by helping others. (I really like this quote by Kevin Spacey: “If you’re lucky enough to do well, it’s your responsibility to send the elevator back down.”)
—
6 Ways to Work a Room
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/245582
** Some new to me. Good piece.
—
7 Tips to Becoming a Master Networker
http://www.cheatsheet.com/personal-finance/7-tips-to-becoming-a-master-networker.html/?a=viewall
** All good.
—
A Case Against Open Networking
http://www.winningimpression.com/open-networking/
** I agree.
—
Success is in the Follow-up!
http://www.thewisejobsearch.com/2015/03/success-is-in-follow-up.html
** So critical, and so often overlooked. And another by the same author:
Mingling for a Job
http://www.thewisejobsearch.com/2015/01/mingling-for-job.html
—
How to Leverage Alumni Networking on LinkedIn to Find a Job
http://careerrocketeer.com/2014/10/how-to-leverage-alumni-networking-linkedin-find-job.html
** The nice thing about this is that you have one common bond. This tends to increase the response rate.
=====
COVER LETTERS
The Cover Letter Format to Use to Get Your Resume Read
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/example-cover-letter-format-gets-your-resume-read/
** There is no perfect formula, but this is a good guideline.
—
Six Ways to Make Sure your Cover Letter Gets Read
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/six-ways-make-sure-your-cover-letter-gets-read-lynda-spiegel
** Some good ideas, and I like the idea of proactively including a link to your LinkedIn profile… just make sure it’s consistent with your resume. And related:
The Ins and Outs of Cover Letters
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/11/the-ins-and-outs-of-cover-letters
** Remember the goal of your cover letter: to make them read your resume. More:
7 Secrets to Savvy Cover Letters
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/09/5-secrets-to-savvy-cover-letters
—
How to Organize a Cover Letter/Email
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20141117151023-512381-how-to-organize-a-cover-letter-email
** Solid must-haves.
—
Cover Letter Do’s and Don’ts- Infographic
http://www.jobcluster.com/blog/author/jobcluster/
** Useful and easy-to-digest.
—
5 Common Words That Make You Sound Less Confident in Emails
https://www.themuse.com/advice/5-common-words-that-make-you-sound-less-confident-in-emails
** Confidence is king. Just remember that one person’s confidence is another person’s arrogance.
—
The Difference Between an E-Note and a Cover Letter
http://www.social-hire.com/career–interview-advice/5105/the-difference-between-an-e-note-and-a-cover-letter
** Some subtle differences noted.
—
15 Email Signature Mistakes You Might Be Making
http://blog.hubspot.com/sales/email-signature-mistakes-you-might-be-making
** Slideshow.
—
Cover letter- Basic tips
http://www.theemployable.com/index.php/2015/06/12/cover-letter-basic-tips/
** This is your ambassador; your opening salvo.
=====
RESUMES
Should I Use a Chronological or Functional Resume Format?
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/chronological-functional-resume/
** The real answer is “it depends”; however, when people see a functional format they assume – whether rightly or wrongly – that you’re trying to hide something.
—
Verbs Do the Heavy Lifting on Your Resume
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/verbs-do-heavy-lifting-jack-mulcahy
** Absolutely!
—
Resume Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts [INFOGRAPHIC]
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/modern-resume-etiquette-dos-donts/
** Basics.
—
8 Subtle Mistakes On Resumes That You Should Avoid
http://www.careerealism.com/resume-mistakes-avoid-subtle/
** The first rule: don’t screw up. And related:
These 5 Résumé Mistakes Are Hurting Your Job Search
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/15/these-5-resume-mistakes-are-hurting-your-job-search
—
4 Tips For The DIY Resume Writer
http://www.careerealism.com/resume-writer-tips/
** I especially agree with #1. You can lay all the job-search experts end-to-end and not reach a conclusion. More on that:
How To Resolve Conflicting Resume Advice
http://careertrend.net/how-to-resolve-conflicting-resume-advice
—
3 Resume Ideas For Getting A Job Which You’re Not Qualified For.
http://arielle.com.au/3-resume-ideas-for-getting-a-job-which-youre-not-qualified-for/
** Given the quest for the “Purple Squirrel” these days, it seems as though every job is one for which you are not perfectly qualified. Especially given the quest for the Fantasy Date.
—
10 Simple Ways to Make Your Resume Stand Out
http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/3207-resume-writing-tips.html
** Slideshow with advice from multiple sources. Related:
Optimizing Your Resume for the 10-Second Initial Review
http://www.greatresumesfast.com/blog/2014/04/28/optimizing-your-resume-for-the-10-second-initial-review/
—
The Resume Summary Statement: When You Need One and How to Do It
https://www.themuse.com/advice/the-resume-summary-statement-when-you-need-one-and-how-to-do-it
** Personally, I don’t see how you can NOT have one.
—
Resume Help: Catching up with the Times
http://careersdonewrite.com/blog/resume-help-catching-up-with-the-times.html
** Stay up to date, definitely. Related:
Modernize Your Resume for 2015 (two parts)
http://www.talentculture.com/career-strategy/modernize-your-resume-for-2015-part-1/
http://www.talentculture.com/career-strategy/modernize-your-resume-for-2015-part-2/
=====
INTERVIEWING
The Interview Focus Is on Future, Not Past
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/interview-focus-future-past-alex-freund
** A very pertinent thing to keep in mind.
—
20 Ways You Are Turning Off Your Interviewer
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/ways-turning-off-interviewer/
** What are they looking for? And remember, very often a first interview is a screen-out process. Only when you get to the second one are they screening you in. Related:
10 Toxic Words You Must Not Say in a Job Interview
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/242809
—
Top 7 Characteristics that Interviewers Hate
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/characteristics-interviewers-hate/
** Very much aimed at making your resume ATS-friendly.
—
The Top 5 Embarrassing Errors to Avoid in Your Job Interview
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/02/the-top-5-embarrassing-errors-to-avoid-in-your-job-interview
** I agree, mostly.
—
The 3 Questions One CEO Hopes to Hear from Everyone He Interviews — But Hardly Ever Does
http://jobs.aol.com/articles/2015/06/18/questions-ceo-hopes-to-hear-interviews/
** So, can you squeeze these in (appropriately)? More:
Interview due diligence: What to ask the hiring manager
http://info.theladders.com/career-advice/interview-questions-job-seekers-ask
** And the latest in my series of “penetrating questions” to ask on interviews:
Ask 7: Eight (More) Unique Questions to Ask During an Interview
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ask-7-eight-more-unique-questions-during-interview-david-hunt-pe
** And another article with some questions I have not seen:
7 Killer Questions to Ask at Your Next Interview
https://www.themuse.com/advice/7-killer-questions-to-ask-at-your-next-interview
—
The One Question That Makes or Breaks a Job Interview
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/05/07/one-question-that-makes-or-breaks-job-interview/
** Never, never heard this one… but now that it’s out there, don’t be surprised if you get hit by it. Related:
The Strategy Behind Weird Interview Questions
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/233056
—
Why You Should Never Wear Orange To An Interview
http://www.fastcompany.com/3036012/how-to-be-a-success-at-everything/why-you-should-never-wear-orange-to-an-interview
** First impressions count, a lot, and the clothing decisions you make play a huge role in that critical first seven seconds (my essay, reblogged):
7 seconds – why that’s all you may have to succeed or fail at interview
http://40pluscareerguru.blogspot.com/2013/08/7-seconds-why-thats-all-you-may-have-to.html
** And two more clothing-related pieces:
Can Wearing Black Really Give you a Sales Edge?
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/can-wearing-black-really-give-you-sales-edge-jill-konrath
How To Dress For a Job Interview
http://www.aceboston.net/resources/staffing-agencies-massachusetts-news-blog/#sthash.wCX7m79k.dpbs
** And another piece on first impressions:
13 Tricks for Impressing Anyone You Meet in Under 30 Seconds
https://www.themuse.com/advice/13-tricks-for-impressing-anyone-you-meet-in-under-30-seconds
** And I still like this book:
How to Make People Like You in 90 Seconds or Less
—
How to Answer Interview Questions About Termination
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/how-to/a/questions-about-termination.htm
** Solid advice. And related by the same author:
Job Interview Answer: Why Were You Fired?
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewquestionsanswers/a/interviewfired.htm
** Definitely, a critical aspect of answering this question is to show that you learned something from it.
—
Stand Out: Personal Branding for Job Interview Success
http://www.job-hunt.org/personal-branding/branding-job-interviews.shtml
** And some thoughts of my own:
Differentiate Yourself in an Interview: Beyond Your Background
https://davidhuntpe.wordpress.com/2014/07/06/differentiate-yourself-in-an-interview-beyond-your-background/
—
Why Join Our Company?
http://www.organicresumecreations.com/#!Why-Join-Our-Company/c16g1/558091020cf298dc5b9b4af6
** There’s a fine line between interest and desperation. And from the same author:
Why should I hire you?
http://www.organicresumecreations.com/#!Why-should-I-hire-you/c16g1/5581ebbd0cf27a6b7453e3f6
—
Job Interview Question: What Major Challenges and Problems Did You Face?
http://www.simplyhired.com/blog/jobsearch/interviews/interview-question-major-challenges-problems-face/
** Wrap your answers in stories. They’ll engage.
—
How to Promote Yourself in Job Interview [INFOGRAPHIC]
http://www.jobcluster.com/blog/describe-yourself-in-job-interview-infographic/
** Useful thoughts.
—
Sweaty palms? How to survive interview hell
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20150424-how-to-survive-interview-hell
** Thoughts on how to deal with the stress. And a book I really liked:
Sweaty Palms: The Neglected Art of Being Interviewed
—
How to Sell Yourself in a Job Interview
http://biginterview.com/blog/2015/02/how-to-sell-yourself-in-an-interview.html
** Ultimately, it’s about how to match what you have to what they need – and make them see it.
—
Interview Traps To Avoid
http://www.aceboston.net/2015/05/27/interview-traps-to-avoid/
** Sage advice. Remember, no matter how friendly the interviewers are, they are not your buddy.
—
Why Are You Still Unemployed?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/susan-p-joyce/why-are-you-still-unemployed_b_6360078.html
** Too many hiring managers still don’t grasp today’s sucks-canal-water economy.
—
Top 10 Interview Tips From An Etiquette Professional
http://www.experience.com/entry-level-jobs/jobs-and-careers/interview-resources/top-10-interview-tips-from-an-etiquette-professional/
** An interesting take on things.
—
Lesser known Interview Tips
http://www.theemployable.com/index.php/2015/04/21/lesser-known-interview-tips/
** Basics.
—
A series on panel interviewing
https://interviewheaven.wordpress.com/2013/06/02/the-panels-perspective-with-louise-cook/
https://interviewheaven.wordpress.com/2013/05/08/the-panels-perspective-with-paul-robinson/
https://interviewheaven.wordpress.com/2013/04/12/the-panels-perspective-with-kenny-cavey/
https://interviewheaven.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/the-panels-perspective-with-tom-mallory/
https://interviewheaven.wordpress.com/2013/03/08/the-panels-perspective-with-thomas-crane/
—
6 Secrets of The New Interview
http://corcodilos.com/blog/8049/6-secrets-of-the-new-interview
** In particular, note #1. This is why networking is so utterly critical.
=====
AFTER THE INTERVIEW
I Had My Interview. Now What? 5 Post-Interview Tips.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/i-had-my-interview-now-what-5-post-interview-tips-kristin-sherry
** Some excellent follow-up advice.
—
5 Elements of a Great Thank-You Note
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/02/5-elements-of-a-great-thank-you-note
** It still boggles me how many people do not write thank-you notes. Related:
Top 5 Questions About Thank You Letters
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/top-5-questions-thank-you-letters-barbara-safani
—
What To Do If You Don’t Get That Job
http://www.social-hire.com/career–interview-advice/4872/what-to-do-if-you-dont-get-that-job
** And unless you got the bum’s rush out the door, do make an effort to stay in occasional touch, especially if you can find an article or link you think would be interesting and/or useful.
=====
BRANDING / SOCIAL MEDIA
6 Steps to Building A Solid Online Presence
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/6-steps-build-online-presence/
** Interesting techniques.
—
5 sections of a résumé and LinkedIn profile that show your value
http://thingscareerrelated.com/2015/01/08/5-components-of-a-resume-and-linkedin-profile-that-brand-you/
** It’s about readability and perception.
—
How To Respond To Job Openings On LinkedIn
http://www.careerealism.com/job-openings-linkedin-responding/
** Good advice.
—
3 Tips for Using Social Media to Jumpstart your Job Search
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/3-tips-using-social-media-jumpstart-your-job-search-lynda-spiegel
** General but solid.
—
The 3 Biggest Social Media Snafus That Can Cost You the Job
http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/06/15/the-3-biggest-social-media-snafus-that-can-cost-you-the-job
** I agree one should not be “out there” with every bikini pose, drink held, political view, rant, etc. At the same time, people who hold themselves under such strict control that they post nothing that might cause offense to anyone, ever, are also suspect – and that’s not just my opinion, I’ve read articles to that effect. To wit:
Unemployed? Blame Your (Lack of) Social Media Presence
http://www.payscale.com/career-news/2015/05/unemployed-blame-your-(lack-of)-social-media-presence
** So I think it’s time to bring up some thoughts for rules on this:
Social Media Vetting: Proposed Standards (Long)
https://davidhuntpe.wordpress.com/2014/03/13/social-media-vetting-proposed-standards-long/
** I have this image of someone in HR needing smelling salts, or a hiring manager needing to open the window for fresh air, at the merest social media hint that a person has a life outside their job… and is enjoying it. And round-about related to that:
If No One Has a Bad Opinion About You, You Are Doing Something Utterly Wrong
http://www.inc.com/quora/if-no-one-has-a-bad-opinion-about-you-you-are-doing-something-utterly-wrong.html
** This brings to mind one of my favorite Winston Churchill quotations: “You have enemies? Good. That means you’ve stood up for something, sometime in your life.”
—
Unemployment Bias: Create Your Own Opportunities
http://epiccareering.com/unemployment-bias-create-your-own-opportunities/
** Do something. Even volunteering. Related:
Career Success Guide: How to Stay Employed (Even When You’re Unemployed)
http://www.payscale.com/career-news/2015/06/career-success-guide-how-to-stay-employed-even-when-youre-unemployed
—
The Twitter Wars, or, How Not to Get Noticed By Recruiters
http://www.resumeconfidential.ca/2011/09/the-twitter-wars-or-how-not-to-get-noticed-by-recruiters/
** A tweet can go viral, and it could be good… or very bad:
Why a viral Tweet might not be what you really want
http://40pluscareerguru.blogspot.com/2015/05/why-viral-tweet-might-not-be-what-you.html
—
Personal branding on LinkedIn: 11 mistakes to avoid
http://blog.firebrandtalent.com/2014/05/personal-branding-on-linkedin-11-mistakes-to-avoid/
** The first rule: don’t screw up.
—
9 Be’s: Successful Blogger Secrets You Need to Know
http://rebekahradice.com/blogger-secrets-you-need-to-know/
** Useful if you blog.
—
The Ultimate Social Media Guide to Getting a Job [Infographic]
http://www.exertusjobs.co.uk/blog/marketing/the-ultimate-social-media-guide-to-getting-a-job-infographic/
** Good (though there is no panacea).
—
There’s an “I” in LinkedIn, don’t be afraid to use it!
http://interviewiq.com.au/there-is-an-i-in-linkedin-dont-be-afraid-to-use-it
** An interesting approach.
=====
GENERAL
Mistakes to avoid on business lunch meetings
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/mistakes-avoid-business-lunch-meetings-lavie-margolin
** Good things to keep in mind when eating out, whether on an interview or at a general business meal.
—
Personal SWOT Analysis: Finding Your Career Strengths & Weaknesses
http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5543-personal-swot-analysis.html
** Know yourself. And get other opinions on what you’ve done too – others can see what you can miss.
—
Six Changes Coming to the Workforce
https://www.recruiter.com/i/six-changes-coming-to-the-workforce/
** Scrying the future. And a strong downside to the temporary/contract aspect (my essay, reblogged):
Why contractors are the future and the downsides of hiring a mercenary workforce
http://40pluscareerguru.blogspot.com/2013/12/why-contractors-are-future-and.html
—
When should graduating seniors start their job search? Four years ago.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/when-should-graduating-seniors-start-job-search-four-ago-marilyn
** Whether you are a college freshman or a 50+ person, always expect that you might need to ramp up a job search on short notice. And be ready for it.
—
Use Job Boards for Research … Not to Find Jobs
http://executiveresumebranding.com/use-job-boards-for-research-not-to-find-jobs/
** I agree. And if you DO see a job you like, don’t hit “submit” but try to tunnel in first.
—
PayScale’s VIP Blog Roundup: A Background Check … Before the Interview?
http://www.payscale.com/career-news/2015/06/payscales-vip-blog-roundup-a-background-check-before-the-interview-
** Seriously? And referenced in this article is:
employer wouldn’t interview me unless I authorized an invasive background check before we even talked
http://www.askamanager.org/2015/06/employer-wouldnt-interview-me-unless-i-authorized-an-invasive-background-check-before-we-even-talked.html
** Which brings up:
Job Seekers: Watch Your Back(ground)
https://davidhuntpe.wordpress.com/2015/02/07/job-seekers-watch-your-background/
—
Your craziest job interview stories: ‘The chair flew up and knocked out my teeth’
http://www.theguardian.com/careers/careers-blog/2015/may/14/craziest-job-interview-stories
** Funny – on the lighter side.
=====
UNDERSTANDING THE OTHER SIDE OF THE TABLE
Pre-Employment Tests for Critical Thinking Skills
http://www.successperformancesolutions.com/employment-tests/general-mental-abilities/pre-employment-tests-for-critical-thinking-skills/
** I think these tests are a useful, but only up to a point. People are using these as a crutch to avoid having to make decisions themselves.
—
10 of the Most Revealing Interview Questions to Ask Job Candidates
http://hr.sparkhire.com/interviewing/10-of-the-most-revealing-interview-questions-to-ask-job-candidates/
** Don’t be surprised if you get asked some of these – they’re pretty good. Related:
6 Interview Questions You Must Ask if You Want to Hire the Best People
http://www.inc.com/thomas-koulopoulos/6-interview-questions-you-must-ask-if-you-want-to-hire-the-best-people.html
—
Stop Hiring the Disengaged!
https://www.smartrecruiters.com/blog/stop-hiring-the-disengaged/
** There’s enthusiasm, and then there’s cultish enthusiasm. If I might be permitted to indulge in some cynicism, it seems as though it’s no longer enough to be passionate about one’s career field and view doing a good job as a must, one must – it seems – have a passion for the product beforehand, and that approaching the level of religious fervor.
—
Recruiting 101: The Secret Hiring Sauce
http://recruiterbox.com/blog/recruiting-101-the-secret-hiring-sauce/
** What are they thinking? Related:
The 10 Most Popular Articles Among Recruiters This Week
http://talent.linkedin.com/blog/index.php/2015/06/the-10-most-popular-articles-among-recruiters-this-week-15
** And… what are they reading?
—
What are some of the biggest red flags in an interviewee?
http://www.quora.com/What-are-some-of-the-biggest-red-flags-in-an-interviewee/answer/Joey-Trebif?srid=RHfM
** Insights. And related, from the same author:
9 Reasons Why I Won’t Hire You
http://careeralley.com/interviews/10-reasons-wont-hire/
** Another piece in this line:
10 Reasons I Didn’t Hire You Today
http://www.youtern.com/thesavvyintern/index.php/2015/06/15/10-reasons-i-did-not-hire-you-today/
** Understand why they might be avoiding you.
—
The Secret Meanings of Job Interview Questions
http://www.simplyhired.com/blog/jobsearch/interviews/secret-meanings-job-interview-questions/
** Understand why they ask questions. There are hidden layers.
—
Stop Hiring “Toads!”
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/stop-hiring-toads-john-boyens
** What are they afraid of? The – DA DUH DAAAA – “bad hire”. Sort-of related:
How to Spot a Bad Candidate Who Looked So Perfect on Paper
https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-spot-a-bad-candidate-who-looked-so-perfect-on-paper
Top 5 Reasons That New Hires Fail (Study)
http://thecareercafe.co.uk/blog/?p=4022
They Have The Talent But Do They Have The Personality?
http://www.social-hire.com/social-recruiting-advice/4910/they-have-the-talent-but-do-they-have-the-personality
—
15 interview questions to measure emotional intelligence
https://agenda.weforum.org/2014/12/15-interview-questions-to-measure-emotional-intelligence/
** Useful given that EQ is becoming quite the topic to examine.
—
How Managers Can Make Better Hiring Decisions
http://playbook.amanet.org/how-managers-can-make-better-hiring-decisions/
** What weighs on their mind?
=====
SALARY
Should I Include Salary Requirements on My Resume?
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/salary-requirements-resume/
** Short answer: no.
—
Payscale’s Salary Negotiation Guide
http://www.payscale.com/salary-negotiation-guide
** A whole bunch of topical resource links.
—
5 Ways to Successfully Negotiate Anything
http://www.inc.com/kevin-daum/5-ways-to-successfully-negotiate-anything.html
** It all depends on how desperate you are… and how much you show it.
—
12 Most Honest Reasons to Lie When Interviewers Ask Your Current Salary
http://12most.com/2014/09/30/12-honest-reasons-lie-interviewers-current-salary/
** I’m not recommending lying per se; my tack is simply to say that “I’m seeking a salary in <X-Y> range.” IMHO, what you made elsewhere is none of peoples’ business. But, presenting this in case this tactic strikes a chord and works for someone.
