wildjobsafari

2006-04-22T07:34:00.001-07:00

2006-04-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

INTERVIEWING: Negotiating With Mr. Smith, Part III: Smith vs. Jones vs. Greene

2006-01-26T12:32:00.000-08:00

Contrary to popular wisdom, there are such things as good problems. If your wallet is too small to hold all of your cash, for instance, that is a good problem. So is having several employers bidding for your services.

Just like juggling...

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ADDING VALUE: Show Off Your Expertise and Get Published!

2006-01-26T12:30:00.000-08:00

You are an expert at something.

C'mon! There's a topic you know inside and out. There's a topic you own. The trouble is, nobody's going to know...

Read the full post here.

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RESUMES: Under Cover (Letters, That Is) II: Word Smithing the First Paragraph

2006-01-24T02:23:00.000-08:00

In last Monday's post, we discussed the three paragraph cover letter formula. Today, we'll delve into the actual wording of the first paragraph.

WARNING: After reading this, you may think...

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Q & A: Signs of Job Burn Out

2006-01-20T13:13:00.000-08:00

(EDITOR'S NOTE: A few people emailed essentially the same question this week, so we combined and paraphrased their queries into one.)

Q: I'm bored at work. Am I burned out? And, if so, what can I do about it?

A: It's not surprising that a number of people asked this question this week. The Holidays are over, it's cold, dreary and the sun barely makes it past 5 p.m.Productivity often suffers this time of year, and mental stagnation rears its sloth-like head.

Are you experiencing job burn out or just the winter blahs? Take this short yes/no quiz to find out:

Read the full post here.

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INTERVIEWING: Negotiating With Mr. Smith, Part II: My Pete Rose for Your Reggie Jackson and Matchbox

2006-01-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

Many children get their first taste of negotiation with sports cards - baseball, football, etc. Sometimes, the trades are even. Other times? Not so much.

These bartering skills are valuable in the adult world as well. For example...

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ADDING VALUE: Casablanca: Be a Bogey

2006-01-18T06:40:00.000-08:00

Casablanca is quite possibly the perfect movie. There's romance, action, intrigue, a politically charged sing-off in a bar, police corruption, expatriates, male bonding and good guys prevailing.

(Sorry if I spoiled it for you.)

Humphrey Bogart's flick is far more than even that, though. Casablanca offers a wealth of advice. Bogey's character in particular, Rick Blane, offers up several gems for adding value...

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NETWORKING: Networking Out of Town Part I: Laying the Foundation

2006-01-17T07:51:00.000-08:00

Thinking about "moving out of Dodge?" You're not alone. Many workers, at one point or another, contemplate changing locales to improve job prospects.

Before you make the leap though, ask yourself three simple questions:

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RESUMES: Taking Cover (Letters, That Is)

2006-01-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

Cover letters are one of the biggest job-seeking stress producers. What do I put in it? How do I start? How long should it be?

Relax! Try this easy three paragraph formula (which serves...

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Q & A: The Magic of Three

2006-01-13T09:56:00.000-08:00

Why do prospective employers ask for 3 references? I have only one supervisor and need 2 more. Who else can I ask?
- No Name in STL

I get similar questions from my clients nearly every single day - mainly because it's a good question.

Employers, as a rule, want at least three references, but seldom more than...

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INTERVIEWING: Negotiating With Mr. Smith, Part I

2006-01-12T03:38:00.000-08:00

Mr. Smith wants to hire you? Congratulations! Now it's time to talk compensation package.

You'll need to negotiate. And it pays to negotiate. Consider a $10,000 difference in salary per year, for instance. If you haggle for 20 minutes for that raise, you just earned an hourly negotiating rate of $3,333 (20 minutes = 1/3 hr. $10,000/3=$3,333)!!!

So how do you get the compensation you're looking for? Today, we'll discuss...

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ADDING VALUE: S.M.I.L.E. to Get Ahead

2006-01-11T06:49:00.000-08:00

The Mary Tyler Moore Show always began with the musical question: "Who can turn the world on with a smile?" YOU can turn the world - the work world, that is - on with a smile. Or rather, a S.M.I.L.E....

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NETWORKING: Working the Network By Feeding the Network

2006-01-10T05:45:00.000-08:00

You've got to give a little to get a little. You get what you pay for. A penny saved is a penny earned. You can't get blood from a stone.Ever hear these clichés? Ever use any of them?
Good. Then you know how to network.

Networking, unfortunately, gets a bad rap. Many think it's bad form. That's because so many people network badly. They work their network with a hand out, expecting something for nothing.

That's the wrong way to network. Those clichés offer better...

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RESUMES: Companion Pieces

2006-01-09T07:37:00.000-08:00

Young and Rice. Hall and Oates. George and Gracie. Laurel and Hardy. Heck - even Mary Kate and Ashley.

Companions are better together than they would otherwise be alone. Likewise, resumes are stronger if accompanied by one or more companions. Today, we'll talk about three very closely related...

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Q & A: Low-Cost High-Pay Part-Time Start-Up Businesses RESOLUTION WEEK

2006-01-06T12:28:00.000-08:00

Q: My income doesn't meet what I'd like to spend. Are there any low-cost ways to start my own part-time business? I'd like to make good money.
- Phil (no city provided)

A: Thanks for the great question, Phil. I get similar questions from my clients everyday.

Everybody wants to make more money. We all want to buy more...

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INTERVIEWING: RemoveThy Foot From Thy Mouth RESOLUTIONS WEEK

2006-01-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

We've all done it. Sometimes you just can't help it. The hear the words come out of your mouth before you can reel them back in and your shocked face mirrors that of the person you're speaking to.

Yep. You've gone and put your foot in your mouth.

In a social situation, you might recover. In an interview? Not so often.

Statistically, 32% of all job interviews are botched because of hoof-in-mouth disease (according to those who responded to the survey). That's approximately ONE THIRD!

Here are a few easy-to-keep New Year's Interviewing Resolutions that can keep feet from mouths:

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Get a life for just $2.95! Get a freelance job, work at home and make loads of money. Click here to start.

ADDING VALUE: Setting the Bar RESOLUTION WEEK

2006-01-04T06:52:00.000-08:00

The trick to keeping New Year's Resolutions is to make them achievable. You should also make them specific. Doing so helps set the bar high enough for improvement, yet at a height that's attainable.

Here are a few resolutions that will set your bar higher, yet give you a very good chance to achieve:

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NETWORKING: 'Running' Into Contacts RESOLUTION WEEK

2006-01-03T15:11:00.000-08:00

You've probably made New Year's Resolutions at some point in your life.

And you've probably broken those resolutions within a week. (A day? A couple minutes?)

It doesn't have to be that way. You can, in fact, make sure your "health resolution(s)" stick while looking for work. That's right! You can look for work AND get healthy at the same time! Here are a few networking/health resolutions you definitely can keep...

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RESUMES: New Year, New Resume RESOLUTION WEEK

2006-01-02T06:52:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Be sure to visit our new home at WildJobSafari.com!!!

Fun fact: New Year's Day is the oldest recorded holiday, dating back some 2000 years.

That's right! 2000 years of broken New Year's Resolutions! 2000 years of people not losing weight. 2000 years of not quiting smoking. And, of course, 2000 years of not finding the right job.

You can do something about that last one by making job search resolutions you can keep. That's why this week's theme is RESOLUTIONS!

Here are a few simple resume resolutions to make:

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Q & A: Why Is WildJobSafari...

2005-12-30T08:22:00.000-08:00

A number of you have emailed in questions regarding the big changes with WildJobSafari. Here are a few, along with the answers:

Q: Why is WildJobSafari becoming a "dot com?"
A: There are a number of reasons: 1) an easier to remember address; 2) more space to offer more information and services; and 3) to further develop the brand and mission credibility.

Q: Will I still be able to read past WildJobSafari posts?
A: Absolutely. Providing information is what we're all about.

Q: What will be so different about WildJobSafari.com?
A: You will still get "Free daily job search advice. Because it's a jungle out there." Every part of the new site will be free (though you are encouraged to support our sponsors).

WildJobSafari.com will be more magazine-esque, however. You will find different categories broken down into departments. Here are a few of the improvements:

The Daily Machete and The Weekly Machete

Cutting through the jungle

One day (and week) at a time.

At "Daily," you will find the daily advice you've come to expect from WildJobSafari, in the same format. The weekly electronic newsletter's new name is "The Weekly Machete."

The Call of the Wild

WildJobSafari's new podcast. Free downloadable job search-related advice for your MP3 player updated every weekend! The first "Call" will be next weekend.

And, in the next two weeks, look for these great additions:

In the Field

Profiles of how real people hunted and captured great jobs. A new one every week!

On the Hunt

Job hunting tips and tricks from readers like you.

Additional Safari Resources

Great jobs near your home! Recruiters eager to work with you! Low-cost solutions for your hunt – and maintaining your base camp!

Q: When will the website www.wildjobsafari.com go live?

A: January 1, 2006. By the time our subscribers get their newsletter, the site will be up.

IN A NUTSHELL: Bookmark WildJobSafari.com and share us with your family, friends and associates! We're going LIVE with fantastic additions on 1/1/06!!!

INTERVIEWING: Pre-Interview Prep

2005-12-29T16:21:00.000-08:00

Many interviews go awry before they even start.

Here are some common pre-interview mistakes and how to avoid them.

Ice Cold Sweat. Relax. Breathe. It's just an interview. Like the old commercial said, "never let them see you sweat." Don't let them feel you sweat, either. Dry your palms before the introductory handshake.

Where's my interview packet? Make sure you lay out your packet, including several copies of your resume, reference letters and portfolio, the night before. Or put it in your car.

You're not going to wear THAT are you?!? You don't need to consult a fashion consultant, but you do need to make sure you are dressed for success. If you have any doubts, ask a trusted friend.You had spinach for lunch, didn't you? This may seem obvious, but it's often overlooked. Make sure your teeth are free of food, tobacco and other debris. And finish a mint just before going in.

Sorry I'm late... Show up 10 minutes early. Check out the travel and traffic conditions and plan accordingly.

IN A NUTSHELL: Prepare before your interview to start off on the right foot.

REMEMBER!!!!!! WildJobSafari.com goes LIVE on Monday!!!

ADDING VALUE: Demonstrating and Honing Your Leadership Chops, Part 2

2005-12-28T06:39:00.000-08:00

Leadership abilities often separate those who get the position, promotion or contract from those who don’t. The paradox, of course, is how do you demonstrate your leadership abilities before being hired?

I asked William Self, President of The Leadership Factor in Rochester, NY, for his thoughts on leadership.

“We all have leadership skills inside of us. We simply need to bring them out. We need to practice them, and, like many things in life, the more you practice the better you get. In other words, we can learn how to become leaders by getting into the action.

“In many ways a leader is a teacher. He or she educates others and shows them how to accomplish what they have set out to do. A true leader, then, is more of a facilitator, who understands that the ones being led are responsible to get things done, and that he or she simply shows them how to be successful, much like a coach would to the players, even if the leader is part of the team.

“One of the essential ingredients for leadership is enthusiasm, because it spills over to the ones who are relying on their leader. Enthusiasm translates into making the work to be done very important to the followers. It makes the efforts put forward significant and makes the followers feel they are making a difference in what they are doing.“Before you can lead others, you need to develop confidence and clear thinking. The process starts with understanding the direction that you want to follow and the goals you want to accomplish. In order for people to follow you, however, you need to express these goals and directions clearly.“

An excellent way to improve in this area is through Toastmasters. It is an organization that teaches communication skills, not only in public speaking skills, but in the ability to organize your thoughts and ideas, including written, in compelling ways that persuade others. Toastmasters can help potential leaders become outstanding communicators and practice the leadership that will make them more successful in their work and personal lives."

IN A NUTSHELL: Practice your innate leadership skills, coach others, express enthusiasm, have confidence in yourself and consider joining Toastmasters.

NETWORKING: Myths and Truisms

2005-12-27T06:27:00.000-08:00

My clients surprise me when they shy away from networking. "Shy" away is what they do, in fact. They fear it.

Most fears, though, can be eliminated by knowledge. The fear of networking is no different. So let's discuss a few networking myths and truisms.

Networking is difficult.
Myth. You network anytime you're introduced to someone or meet someone new. You're even networking when you run into someone you know at the grocery store. You shake hands, exchange greetings and smile. You engage in small talk.

Social networking is not unlike networking for business or your work search. You exchange a little more focused information, true, but meeting people is meeting people. You do it all the time and you will continue doing it. That's not so hard, is it?

Networking seems so desperate.
Myth...and True. It's all in how you do it. If you plead for work or seem desperate, your networking - and indeed, your interviews - will suffer. If, however, you approach it like the professional you are, you will not come across as desperate.

It's that simple. Really. Yes, you want information, but you also have information. Networking is all about getting to know people and sharing information.

Networking gets a bad rap sometimes because of the bad apples - the ones who are only me, me, me. They are the takers and they are not doing it correctly.

Networking doesn't work that well.
Myth. As mentioned in an earlier post, 70% of all jobs are obtained by networking. It works EXCEEDINGLY well.

Networking is a lot of work.
True. But then, most worthwhile things are. You will get out of it exactly what you put into it. If you put in the work, you will get back to work.

Networking is takes too much time.
Myth. It does take time, but you are investing that time. You should spend the bulk of your job hunting time networking since the bulk of the jobs out there are obtained through networking. Don't look at it as time taken from looking for work; look at it as looking for work.

IN A NUTSHELL: Don't shy away from networking. It should be the cornerstone of your work search.

NEXT MONDAY: New posts resume at www.wildjobsafari.com

RESUMES: Too Much Information Is Too Much Ammo

2005-12-27T06:17:00.001-08:00

She was proud of the resume she handed me. It was certainly comprehensive, from her first job in the 60's up to the present. She even listed her marital status, physical condition and weight.

Most wouldn't dream of putting most of this information on a resume, and with good reason. If you started working in the 60's, chances are employers will do the math and figure you're gearing up for retirement. And, while age discrimination is illegal, it does exist. Listing personal information, such as marital status and weight, is none of a prospective employer's business. Plus, it's unprofessional.

But what if you have been working since the 60's? What if a cornerstone of your work life began, say, in 1967 and stretched through to, say, 1991? I advise my clients against listing both sets of years (e.g. 1967-1991) and instead list only the end year (e.g. -1991).

I also advise customers to not put the year of high school graduation, for the same reason. And, unless your college degree is still fresh (within the past five years), I advise you to drop the date off that, as well.

Is this just smoke and mirrors? Is this lying? Yes to the first, no to the second. You are still providing your experience and skills, but taking away their initial objections. When you eliminate objections, you will be judged on your merit alone.

There are resumes that list hobbies and activities. Get rid of that section. You may be asked at an interview what you do in your spare time, and you can answer. But listing "reading, movies and Scrabble" wastes valuable space on your resume and is irrelevant to employers. Again, including this information is often seen as unprofessional.

Another biggie: Do NOT put anything on your resume that may indicate what religion or political party you belong to. Sad as it is, discrimination still exists. These are the two hot buttons your mom told you never to discuss, and you shouldn't put them on your resume, either.

Also avoid the urge, if you have one, to put your picture or a cute graphic on your resume. It's sophmoric. One resume came by my desk, in fact, that had a naked baby boy urinating. How many employers would take someone like that seriously? Additionally, while you may be quite handsome or beautiful, if you include a picture of yourself on your resume, employers will often see you as beautiful and unprofessional.

IN A NUTSHELL: Don't give an employer discriminatory ammunition to not call you in for an interview.

NEXT MONDAY: New posts resume at www.wildjobsafari.com

RESUMES: Too Much Information Is Too Much Ammo

2005-12-27T06:17:00.000-08:00

Q & A: How Can I Make Easy Money?

2005-12-23T07:31:00.000-08:00

I'm employed, but need more money. I would love to have a second income. I don't want it to take a lot of time and I don't want to have to think about it too much, but I do want to make a good buck on the side. How can I make easy money?

- Kate in Macon, GA

You can't.

That's right, Kate - you can't. And if you find an easy way to make money that's legit, let the rest of us know.

Making money is hard work. Even if you have passive revenue streams, like interest or rent, you need to work to make your money work.

Having said that, there are a few low-impact/low time investment ways to make a buck.

Sell Stuff On eBay. If you aren't selling your stuff yet, you really should. Take a few pictures, write up a catchy description, and hope people start bidding. You will need to set up an account with eBay and PayPal (which will take you 10 minutes each if you type really, really slow). What can you make from online auctions? A realistic goal is to pay for gas and groceries with the revenue. Of course, there are folks out there who make full-time income doing this part-time, but that is not the norm.

Write Greeting Cards. You can do this from home. Check out Writer's Market (it comes out yearly) to see where to submit your card ideas. This is a very, very competitive market, but some who freelance their greeting cards make six figures. While not everyone will do this well, you can expect to make anywhere from $25 - $300 per acceptance.

Clean Homes. This is a great way to make $15-$40 per hour on the side. It's hard work, to be sure, but if you have two or three clients who want you to clean every week, you're paying your cable bill with money left over for a dinner at Olive Garden. That's really not too shabby for a few hours each week. Post a free ad on www.craigslist.org in your city to get started.

IN A NUTSHELL: Don't look for easy money. Do look for income sources that are low impact/low time investments.

NEXT FRIDAY: A "Best Of" while we finish touching up www.WildJobSafari.com - which goes LIVE in January! And so does our podcast!

REMEMBER: www.WildJobSafari.com and our podcast goes LIVE in January!

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Building Rapport 201: Verbal Bricks and Mortar

2005-12-22T08:10:00.000-08:00

You've laid the interview foundation by paying attention to physical cues (see last Thursday's post), and now it's time to work with the verbal bricks and mortar.

Use the string. An old brick mason's trick for keeping each layer of bricks level is to line a string up; the string is secured at both ends and is level. Likewise, you should ensure your vocabulary is level with the hiring manager. If the hiring manager uses unfamiliar words or phrases - or even acronyms - then you didn't prepare well enough. Preparation and research will be the string that keeps the interview level.

Don't slop on too much. Brick masons who slop on too much mortar leave a deceivingly unstable wall behind them. It may look alright, but the weight from above will eventually cause it to crumble. The mortar is only an adhesive, after all; a transition between bricks. Don't waste your time - or the hiring manager's time - with a bunch of fluff and filler. Focus on your career and skills structure. Your bricks should be action verbs and succinct, relevant anecdotes.

Use the back end of the trowel. When laying bricks, masons don't just plop them down and call them good. Instead, they use the butt-end of the trowel to tap them into just the right spot. Likewise, it's wise for you to ensure your verbal bricks are tapped into the spot called for by the job for which you're interviewing.

IN A NUTSHELL: Use the string, don't slop on too much, and use the back end of the trowel.

NEXT THURSDAY: A "Best Of" post as the final bugs get worked out of www.wildjobsafari.com.

REMEMBER: The www.wildjobsafari.com website and podcast go LIVE in January!!!

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: "...And don't call me 'Shirley!' "

2005-12-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

If you recognize the quote, then you've seen the movie "Airplane!" More than once, no doubt.

You can learn a lot about adding value to yourself as a person and an employee from watching "Airplane!"

Really!

"I guess I picked the wrong week to stop sniffing glue." Knowing how to handle pressure can make your life much easier. It can also give you a professional edge. Employers value those who can think well during times of chaos without the help of crutches like food or drugs.

"Billy, have you ever spent time in a Turkish prison?" We've all made inappropriate comments and asked questions that would be better off unasked. But knowing socially accepted limits - and not crossing them - is a cornerstone of professionalism. It may sound basic, but many still inadvertently make (racial, sexual, religious, etc.) comments. How you speak directly reflects how you think. And employers know it.

"...Flying a plane is no different than riding a bicycle, just a lot harder to put baseball cards in the spokes." We catch on to concepts and things much easier if we can relate them to things we already know. Look for relationships between the new and the known. Using this technique will help you learn faster, thereby making you more valuable as an employee.

IN A NUTSHELL: Take a cue from the movie "Airplane!" to increase your value as a person and as an employee. And good luck - we're all counting on you.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: A "Best Of" While We Work on WildJobSafari.com - which goes live in January.

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Asking Mr. Smith for Help, Part III: Getting down to business.

2005-12-20T07:07:00.000-08:00

The small talk is out of the way and hopefully you've built a certain amount of rapport with Mr. Smith (see last Tuesday's post). You have a specific goal and strategy.

The hard part is, for the most part, done. Now, it's just a matter of putting your plan into action.

Set The Stage. The best metaphor, here, is the classic rule-of-thumb when giving a speech: tell them what you're going to tell them, tell them, then tell them what you've told them. This gives the audience (in this case, Mr. Smith) a clear set of objectives and a basis for reviewing the success of the speech (or, in this case, meeting).

Become A Reporter. Ask questions. That's what you're there for, and Mr. Smith expects it. Pick his brain. Take notes (memory jogger for you and flattering for him). Make sure you have ten good, intelligent questions and use them as launch points.

Ask For Help. Studies have proven that people are more prone to like you if you ask them for help. Read that sentence again. People will like you more if you ask them for help. This runs contrary to the popular belief that people will like you more if you help them. The rationale: you respect their knowledge, talents and resources enough to look upon them as an authority or expert. This is quite flattering.

Offer Help. This is where your research and preparation comes into play. With practice, you can artfully pepper industry information into the conversation. You should also drop a few names of people you know who might be able to fill some needs or information gaps in Mr. Smith's company. This serves a few purposes: 1) It shows you're current with industry information, ergo a quasi-expert; 2) It almost guarantees further contact with Mr. Smith (you'll need to provide him with contact information, after all); and 3) It will help the contact you're connecting with Mr. Smith, thereby making him/her more prone to help you in the future.

Mind The Clock. Mr. Smith's time is valuable, so be careful not to overstay your welcome. That's not to say you should keep looking at your watch, but you should be aware of how long your meeting is running. Mr. Smith likely has a clock or two around his office and/or on his desk. Make note of their positions and casually glance at them once in a while.

Review The Take-Aways. This makes the meeting circular: you started by telling Mr. Smith what you were going to tell him, told him, and are now telling him what you told him. Your take-aways will be following up on the help and/or contacts you've offered him. His take-aways will be following up on the help you've asked him for.

IN A NUTSHELL: Your informational interview/networking meeting with Mr. Smith will be highly successful by following the steps listed above.

NEXT TUESDAY: A "Best Of" Tip (It's the last week of the year and we're working the bugs out of WildJobSafari.com)

REMEMBER: WildJobSafari.com goes LIVE in January - AND SO DOES THE WEEKLY PODCAST!!!

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Now You Can See Me, Vol. II: Online Portfolios

2005-12-19T11:13:00.000-08:00

If you've set up a web site with a free service (like www.geocities.com), you have an online home for your resume. You should also strongly consider putting up samples of your work, as well.

Placing your portfolio online is a convenient way for employers to see your work without the problems of attaching large files. Simply send the link to your site and employers do the clicking.

How-To: If your documents are already in an electronic format (.jpg, .pdf, .doc, etc....), it's just a matter of using the upload manager to put the documents up. Otherwise, scan the images in.

What-To: Examples of your work that are free of copyright and/or intellectual property restrictions are fair game. Blacken out email addresses and chop off passages that could bring you into litigation. Favorable performance reviews? Letters of recommendation? Articles you've written or for which you were used as an expert reference? Absolutely!

When-To: Once you have your portfolio electronic, upload it to your website - and keep it updated. Keep adding to it even when you have a job, because you never know when you're going to need to hit the job search pavement again.

IN A NUTSHELL: Put your portfolio online and keep it updated.

NEXT MONDAY: A "Best Of" Tip (It's the last week of the year and we're working the bugs out of WildJobSafari.com)

REMEMBER: WildJobSafari.com goes LIVE in January - AND SO DOES THE WEEKLY PODCAST!!!

Check out last Monday's post here.

Q & A: Should I Stop Looking During The Holidays?

2005-12-16T07:47:00.000-08:00

I've heard that December is the worst possible time to look for work because all of the decision makers are on vacation. Any truth to that?
- Carla near Oakland, CA

Actually, no.

And it's coincidental that you're writing from the West Coast: looking for work in December is very much like the Gold Rush back in the 1800's. Simply put, it's one of the best times to look for work.

Why?

Let's Get Fiscal. Many companies run their fiscal years in tune with the calendar. This means there's fresh manpower funds available come January. Many companies do a fair bit of interviewing in December as a result.

Tumbleweeds Don't Grow In Cold Offices. The common misconception is that all hiring managers are gone in December is...well, a common misconception. If every decision maker simultaneously took the same month off, the economic fall out would be devestating to commerce. If one is on vacation, others will not be.

Turn Out the Lights, the Party's Over. The exception to today's advice is the week between Christmas and New Year's. While second and third interviews - as well as HIRES - are common during this period, scoring initial interviews are scarce. If you don't have any follow-up interviews scheduled, take the week off and enjoy the Season.

IN A NUTSHELL: December is a fantastic time to look for work.

NEXT FRIDAY: More questions from readers like you.

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Building Rapport 101

2005-12-15T06:58:00.000-08:00

Most hiring managers know within the first 30 seconds of an interview whether you have a chance or not. That doesn't leave you much time to make a connection. If you don't make a connection, you will likely be out of contention.

That's why, for the next few weeks, we'll concentrate on ways to quickly build rapport. Today, we'll discuss the "physical" basics.

The Eyes Have It. In that brief moment before shaking hands, make direct eye contact. This shows confidence, obviously, but it also provides a mutual sizing up; both of you will be trying to "read" each other while trying not to look like you're reading each other. Studies have shown that eye contact is the single biggest factor in quick rapport building.

Shaken, Not Stirred. 007's signature martini request is a good thing to remember upon initially meeting the interviewer. Shake hands firmly; not vice-like nor like dish rag. And don't let the shake you receive (or anything else in the interview) stir nor unnerve you.

Oh, No - After You. Wait to sit until offered a chair. This is just good manners. You can go one step further by timing your "sit" to match the interviewer: psychologically, this shows you respect the person on the other side of the table while demonstrating you consider yourself an equal.

These basics are important to get off on the right foot, and happen in the first 30 seconds.

IN A NUTSHELL: Score big rapport points in the first 30 seconds by paying attention to physical aspects.

NEXT THURSDAY: Building Rapport 201: Verbal Bricks and Mortar

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: "Rosebud" shouldn't be your last word

2005-12-14T07:03:00.000-08:00

No doubt you've seen "Citizen Kane" - or at least know the plot. An old man dies, gasping his last word, "Rosebud." We learn at the end that this was the name of the sled from his youth. We, the audience, draw several conclusions from this.

One of which is best summed up with the axiom, "nobody wishes they had spent more time at work when they're on their death bed."

Kane had sacrificed his marriages, relationships and, indeed, himself, to ambition.

A reporter interviewed the elder version of Kane's right-hand man to get a better picture of who Kane was as a man and what "Rosebud" actually meant. The old friend said, "there's no trick to getting rich, if that's all you want to do..."

What can we learn from Citizen Kane?

A lot. Don't let ambition cloud who you are. Keep grounded. Work for a living but don't live to work.

IN A NUTSHELL: Have your ambitions, but don't let your ambitions have you. Have non-work interests.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: "...And don't call me 'Shirley!' "

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Asking Mr. Smith for Help, Part II: It's Not the Song, It's the Singer

2005-12-13T06:35:00.000-08:00

By the time the door opens to Mr. Smith's office, you've done your homework (see last Tuesday's post) and laid out a plan for how you want this networking meeting/informational interview to go. You have goals, you have questions and you have something to offer Mr. Smith for his time.

Now what?

Mr. Smith knows you're there to pick his brain and gather information. But it's convincing him to supply info - and how you ask that's important.

Read Sally and Mr. Smith's Dynamics. Read the interaction when Sally interacts with him. Is she nervous? Maternal? Flirty? Maybe even a little hostile? This interaction is telling: Mr. Smith may be hostile, angry, playful, friendly, etc. Reading this interaction is a good way to get into Mr. Smith's head and make any on-the-fly strategy changes.

Build Rapport. The door opens and you meet Mr. Smith. Now is the time to remember people like people just like themselves. Thank Sally, then, after the handshake, the door closes and you're seated, use Sally as a starting point. You have a snapshot of their relationship, so you have an idea of how he feels about her. Mirror his feelings, being careful not to be negative. If Mr. Smith makes disparaging remarks about her, switch topics.

Build More Rapport. Scan the room. Utilize the recon you gathered prior to the meeting. You know something personal about him, and now is the time to bring it up. Is he a golfer but you hate it? Mention the last 5K you ran. Is he involved in an organization? Mention your affiliation(s). This will help convince Mr. Smith that you're similar enough to like.

IN A NUTSHELL: Build rapport before asking for information.

NEXT TUESDAY: Asking Mr. Smith for Help, Part III: Getting down to business.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Now You Can See Me, Vol I

2005-12-12T08:30:00.000-08:00

The best resume in the world won't do you a lick of good if it goes unseen.

Of course, you could copy your resume onto reams of sturdy resume stock paper, then mail out the copies. But then, you'd wind up spending upwards of $50 per ream of quality paper, up to $100 on envelopes and more than $75 in postage.

Obviously, cost is one of the reasons resumes are being sent electronic.

The main problem with sending your email electronically, though, is the same reason it's come into vogue: the attachment. Some companies strip attachments from emails coming from the outside. And, if you send your resume in the body of the email, you lose the pretty formatting.

The solution, then, is to turn your resume into a simple web page. By "simple," of course, I mean "not difficult" AND "not complex."

Let's assume you have your resume in Microsoft Word. If you use a different word processor (OpenOffice.org, Works, WordPerfect, etc.), the principles are the same.

Save as a web page. Open your resume. Go to "file," then "save as." Rename your file "index." Then click on "Save as type." Choose "web page (*.htm; *.html)."

Sign up for a free web site. Yahoo! offers free web space, although their free version is ad-supported. Hey - you've got to give a little to get a little. The web builder tools are useful if you want to get fancy, but for a simple resume site, simply go to the upload manager. Upload your resume (now named "index.html). Preview your resume. It should look very much like it does in your word processing program. Save.

Tell the world about your resume. Copy your web address. Heck, I encourage you to bookmark it. Now that you have a simple web site, you can include the link in your emails to employers, recruiters and networking contacts. Put it on your resumes, business cards and everything else you might give a prospective employer.

IN A NUTSHELL: Ensure the widest circulation of your resume possible by turning it into a simple website.

NEXT MONDAY: Now You Can See Me, Vol. II: Online Portfolios.

Check out last Monday's post here.

READER'S QUESTIONS: Bullying Boss

2005-12-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

I love my job but hate my boss. Because of the nature of our jobs, neither of us will be fired and neither of us will leave our jobs until we either die or retire.

While I was on vacation recently, she drove to my house and looked into my garage. I ran my objections up the chain of command and they took an aggressive course of total inaction. I feel absolutely violated, with nobody in management willing to do the right thing. What can I do?
-Don't Use My Name or Location

Unfortunately, this happens more than what's actually reported. That's because the employee's self esteem is beaten down again and again, to the point where helplessness reigns.

It happened to me, too. Here's what I learned:

Run it up the chain. You say you've already gone over your boss' head. But how high have you gone? If it's less than the CEO, Chairman or Owner, you haven't gone high enough.

Document, document, document. Keep a running list of all of the infractions. Note the dates they ocurred. If it's a bullying email, save an electronic copy of it on on a disk or flash drive. Make a hard copy, as well. Keep your electronic and hard copies outside of work. If your boss has bullied others, get them to document and make copies.

Step out of the way of the dozer. Basically, put in for a transfer. If all fails, transfer to a new department.

If all else fails...Take it to the press. That's right - to the press. Embarrass the company and ineffective management structure publicly. And sue them long and sue them hard.

...Like I say, this happened to me back in the day. I learned that bullying managers cower when pushed back.

IN A NUTSHELL: Don't take a bullying boss lying down. Fight back and transfer out of the department.

NEXT FRIDAY: Should I Stop Looking During The Holidays?

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Be a S.T.A.R.

2005-12-08T08:22:00.000-08:00

When interviewing, it's helpful to remember the basics. Once you have the basics, you can be a S.T.A.R.

Smile. This is overlooked, due to nerves. Practice the engraciating smile you'll wear when first shaking hands with a prospective employer. Keep in mind, though, constantly smiling throughout the interview will make you look like a simpleton dolt. After the initial greetings, instead, flash your winning smile once every few minutes.

Take your time. When talking with the prospective employer, don't speak rapidfire. This will lead the interviewer to believe you're nervous.

Ask questions. The death knell for any interview is saying "I don't have questions right now, but can I call you?" Having questions at the ready gives the impression you can think on your feet - even if your questions were prepared.

Respect. This is a two way street. Respect the interviewer's time and efforts. Send a thank you note. Use your manners. And, at the same time, if the employer or company seems sketchy, respect yourself enough to gracefully end the interview.

IN A NUTSHELL: Follow the basics and be an interview S.T.A.R.

NEXT THURSDAY: Building Rapport 101

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: Spread the Load (and other advice that sounds vulgar but isn't)

2005-12-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

You've probably gotten a ton of advice from well-intentioned people in regards to your job search.

Many of them may give out-dated advice, telling how it was done "back in the day." But things have changed since back in the day. Now it's about gaining a competitive edge and adding to your value.

Today we pay homage to my grandfather, who had the knack of giving sound advice that sounded vulgar, with tips on adding value.

Spread the load. It's easy to see how he came up with this gem, as he spent a great deal of time cleaning dairy barns and using...um..."what he found" as fertilizer. He was a firm believer that big jobs called for many hands, and many hands make light work. More importantly, though, by managing projects, recruiting assistance and supervising their efforts, you're adding value. Your skills increase and, indeed, so to does the value of your staff.

Even a blind dog can find his butt by following his nose. You may have incomplete information to complete a task the way you would want to, but by using the info you have, you can get the job done. Life isn't like a text book - you normally have to figure it out as you go along.

It's like letting yourself get kicked in the groin again and again - and who wants that?!? Who, indeed? One of the easiest ways to add to your value is by not allowing yourself to be taken advantage of by employers or co-workers. Being taken advantage of repeatedly detracts from your value.

IN A NUTSHELL: Some of the best advice you'll get may sound vulgar, but that doesn't mean you should ignore it.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: "Rosebud" shouldn't be your last word.

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Asking Mr. Smith for Help, Part 1

2005-12-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

You've won The Sally to your side and Mr. Smith is willing to give 15-30 minutes of face time.

Great! Now rush right in there and grovel, plead and beg! Beg! BEG!!!

...Or you could try succeeding.

There are a few things you should do before meeting with Mr. Smith. These valuable prep tips will showcase your professionalism - and put him in a more receptive frame of mind.

What's Your Objective? Given Mr. Smith is meeting with you for an informational interview, you're probably not angling for a job. Rather, you're likely mining him for industry information, contacts, advice or to become your mentor. Know what you want from the meeting. By focusing on your objective, you thus narrow the focus of the meeting, thereby maximizing your precious time with Mr. Smith.

If You Fail to Plan... Now that you know what your objective is, you need to figure out how to actually achieve your goal. If your objective, for instance, is to obtain five strong contacts, how will you pitch your request? How will you steer the conversation? How much time will you devote to rapport building?

Yeah, But What Can You Do For Me? You know from previous WildJobSafari posts that networking is not a "gimmeegimmeegimmee" endeavor; it's a give-and-take relationship. Be prepared to offer Mr. Smith assistance and/or contacts. Does he need a short-term COBAL programmer? Offer to pass his need on to a friend who's in a tech group. Do a little research before the meeting and you might actually dig up some needs Mr. Smith may not be aware of.
A little prep work will serve you well.

IN A NUTSHELL: Prior to meeting with Mr. Smith, determine your objective, devise a plan to achieve success, and be willing to give before you take.

NEXT TUESDAY: Asking Mr. Smith for Help, Part II: It's not the song, it's the singer.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Other Resume Options

2005-12-05T06:22:00.000-08:00

What? Other resume options? You mean there's more than paper and email?

In a word: "Yep."

In fact, there are quite a few different ways to get your resume - and more - out there. And, with the Holiday Season in full swing, feel free to ask loved ones to gift you with a few of these:

Flash Drive. Also known as a thumb drive or key drive, these little storage devices are just about the best thing since sliced bread. You can store up to 1G for less than $100. Bring this item with you to interviews, when you network, or just about anywhere you think there'll be a job lead and a computer. You can store your resume(s), portfolio(s), pictures, audio, browsers, programs...anything and everything you'd like to show a prospective employer. This little device also shows that you're tech savvy, which a highly-desirable trait.

CDs. This is a great leave-behind or supplement to your "normal" resume, and they won't break the bank. The price of CDs has fallen over the years, and, since it's Holiday Season, they're even cheaper. Yes, you should have a stack with your resume and portfolio handy. But you can also make it an interactive experience, too, by using HTML to make your info browser-friendly. Make sure to label them with your name. And be sure to give them out freely.

Business Cards. Hey! I thought this was about resumes! What are you trying to pull here?!? Simple: put the most important three items on the card (e.g. "8 years cost forcasting experience;" or "A+ Certified"), then a line that reads "See my complete resume at www.myrez.net." This serves a few functions: 1) cards are cheaper than resumes; 2) you can always have a small stack handy; 3a) you're encouraging them to take further action; and 3b) you can track how many hits you have on your resume site.

IN A NUTSHELL: There's many different ways to provide your resume and, since it's the Giving Season, they may not cost you a dime.

NEXT MONDAY: Now you can see me, Vol I

Check out last Monday's post here.

READER'S QUESTIONS: Star Wars Mentoring

2005-12-02T07:12:00.000-08:00

I'm on the bottom rung of a company I really like, and am almost at the one year mark. I'm looking for a mentor - someone who can offer guidance and lead me along. Some of the higher-ups I've talked to don't seem to receptive, while others don't seem to "click" with me. Any suggestions?
- Dave in San Diego

I tend to get this type of question a lot from people just starting out in their careers. And, while I can ask questions of my clients, I don't know a whole lot about your situation. I didn't see where you mentioned your education or previous experience in your chosen field. Nor did I read anything about how you were going about obtaining a mentor, nor why you and your potential mentors (PM) didn't "click."

Having said that, there are a few solid chunks of advice you can follow:

Jedi or Sith? If you aren't "clicking" with a PM, determine if they would lead you down the path you want or not. Obi Wan had run ins with the Jedi Council, just as you will likely sometimes take issue with your PM. But Ben knew Yoda, despite their disagreements, would lead him down the right path; that Yoda could help him.

Old or Young Ben? Interview your PM's for the job. You are, in effect, hiring your mentor - so you want to make sure you pick the right one. The younger version of Obi Wan was, as Yoda pointed out, ill-suited to mentor the boy-who-would-be-Vader. When Ben got older, he was the perfect mentor for Luke, however.

To See a Jedi, Go Where the Jedis Are. You're looking for a mentor: someone with more experience, a businessperson and/or executive. They usually hang out with others just like themselves, which is at certain Clubs like Rotary, Toastmasters, or Lions Clubs. You will likely find a wealth of qualified mentors both in and out of your field at these organizations.

Stay off the Death Star, Dave. And may the Force be with you.

IN A NUTSHELL: Look toward Star Wars as a metaphor for finding a mentor.

NEXT FRIDAY: More reader mail.

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Worst...Interview...Answers...Ever.

2005-12-01T08:59:00.000-08:00

We've all bombed at least one interview. Maybe it was nerves. It could have been a lack of experience or practice. It may have even been for a position way above our heads.

Today, we'll take a look at the lighter side of interviews - the worst interview answers ever.

Pulling A Rabbit Out of My Hat. A hiring manager once told me she asked a candidate what he could offer that other candidates couldn't. He proceeded to do a magic trick with a pen. To his credit, the hiring manager said, he did use it as a metaphor for his skills and philosophies, but it smacked of desperation to stand out. "It was sophmoric," she said. "I was afraid to ask him another question for fear he'd pull something out of my ear."

TMI! TMI! I was sitting in on an interview with a young man for a part-time job. The question posed was the typical "What's your biggest weakness?" He felt it appropriate to mention he liked spicy foods and that it gave him the trotts. While most of us, if we were the hiring manager, would have ended the interview at that point (without a handshake), the manager remained professionally straight faced and asked him to tell a story about himself. The young man provided a hitchhiking adventure. A hitchhiker with the runs? Too much information, indeed!

...If You Show Me Yours. I've heard for several hiring managers that candidates have come on to them during interviews, as if that would help their prospects. One particularly handsome candidate, in fact, went so far as to proposition the interviewer, despite the big honking diamond on her hand and clearly visible family pictures on her desk. This, of course, was in response to her asking what his best trait was. She told him he wasn't qualified for either position.

Hope these provided a gigle and that you've never used any of these in your interviews. If you have really bad interview answers, send it to wildjobsafari@yahoo.com. The really good bad ones will be published at a later date.

IN A NUTSHELL: Some people just don't know how to conduct themselves in interviews.

NEXT THURSDAY: Be a S.T.A.R.

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: When to give 1,245,829.4%

2005-11-30T08:33:00.000-08:00

You already know 100% is the maximum. Of anything. You can't have more or give more than 100%. So when somebody says they want 110%, you know it's impossible.

But you also catch the drift. By expecting more than the maximum possible, they expect you to try harder than you have in the past.

Obviously, this is how you get better - by doing more than you have in the past. That holds true with everything. The current governor of California didn't win seven Mr. Olympias straight from the womb - he gradually worked out harder and added more weight to his exercises until he became "The Austrian Oak." Einstein, likewise, was not considered a gifted intellect. He kept working harder and thinking harder until the world proclaimed his genius.

Giving your all every second of every day will burn you out, though. Arnold knew this, and he made sure to incorporate down time. One of his contemporaries, Robby Robinson, worked out like a fiend and, during the "regular season" - bodybuilding grand prix events - he was nearly unstoppable, winning most events he entered. But he continued it year around and his body paid for it when Olympia time came.

You could learn a bit from Robby. When you're on the job - or looking for a job - give everything you can. Give more than you think you can. Finish a project a day early. Supply your resume on paper and by email.

It's your name and your reputation. Give 1,245,829.4%

Then chill.

If you finish the project a day early, take some time to read a funny email. Take the time to explain the project to someone two pay grades above you. Bowl.

Yes, bowl.

When you're working or working to find work, you need to be at the top of your game. You can't do that if you don't have some downtime.

IN A NUTSHELL: Do more than you thought you could do, but make sure to refresh.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Spread the Load (and other things that sound vulgar but aren't)

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: First Contact With Mr. Smith, Part 3: First Impressions.

2005-11-29T08:17:00.000-08:00

It's been said that if first impressions were accurate, then we'd all be geniuses or idiots.

Now, though, you're being led into Mr. Smith's office for the first meeting. You need to pick his brain. You need to make a great impression so he'll be inclined to help you out. Here's a few tips that'll get you on his good side immediately:

Smile. This may seem obvious, but it's the way you smile that makes the difference. Show some teeth, but don't do it in a way that pays homage to Donnie Osmond or Julia Roberts. Show some teeth to look cordial. Show all your teeth to look like a caricature. Show no teeth to look like you're hiding something.

Thank The Sally. And do so in front of Mr. Smith as you're being led in. Don't go over the top, but make sure Mr. Smith knows you have manners. Just don't make it look like you're making sure he knows. Thanking The Sally also shows that you are good with people and treat all with respect. This goes far in demonstrating character.

Shake hands with Mr. Smith and introduce yourself. This is a multi-parter. Look him in the eye. Be the first to extend your hand. Your grip should be firm and full on (limp or taking only part of his hand kills impressions). Upon intial clasp, say, "Mr. Smith? Jen Goodstein." He will likely say something like, "Nice to meet you." Allow him this, then return in kind.

Wait for the sitting signal. Mr. Smith will either extend his hand to a chair or give a verbal cue. Otherwise, wait for him to sit first. You want to show comfort, but you don't want to take liberties. Allow him this show of professionalism.

You can make a good impression with these suggestions without going overboard.

IN A NUTSHELL: Show professionalism and manners to make a winning first impression.

NEXT TUESDAY: Asking Mr. Smith for Help, Part 1

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: How to Hire a Professional Resume Writer

2005-11-28T05:14:00.000-08:00

Writing your own resume is hard. What format should I use? Am I bragging too much? Is it too long? What color paper should I use?

Calgon, take me away!

You may want to delegate this task to a professional resume writer. While I write quite a few resumes (send your current resume as Word attachment and $50 by PayPal to wildjobsafari@yahoo.com), you may wish to check other services out. Here are a few pointers to selecting a pro:

Price. There are a bunch of resume writers out there who start their basic services at $100 or more. Conversely, there are a ton that start their pricing at $20, with tons of add-ons - which means that $20 resume might wind up costing you $150 or more. Carefully check out what you'll be getting for your money. And keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Generally speaking, a good basic resume rewrite should cost around $50. Once you go below that, the quality of the product may be substandard.

Formats. What formats are available? Unhappy with the format of the writer gives you? You should have the option of having him/her change it once free of charge.

Extras. Will the writer post it to job search sites? Turn it into a web page? How much are these extras?

Quality. You must research resume writers. Too often, they are "professional" only because they've been paid to write resumes. If possible, check out the "before" and "after" samples. If they're not provided, you really should ask for samples. Not all resumes are created equal.

So where do you find resume writers? There are tons of places to look. These are just a few:

Phone book. That's right - let your fingers do the walking. Look in the yellow section under "resume," "career," and "writer."

Craigslist.org. I like this service because I get a large chunk of my business this way. Click on the town closest to you, then "services," then type "resume" in the search box. There will be some non-related stuff to weed through, but you'll find a bunch of resume writers.

Google. You knew we'd mention them, didn't you? Search on "resume" and you'll find more resume writers than you can handle.

Word of Mouth. In your normal networking activities, ask other jobseekers who've had their resumes done who they used.

If you choose to pay someone to write your resume, there are tons of options. A little research will serve you well.

IN A NUTSHELL: Not all resume writers are the same. Research will save you time, money and hassle.

NEXT MONDAY: Other Resume Options

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Reader's Questions

2005-11-25T05:25:00.000-08:00

This week's question came from one of my clients while helping her with her networking.

The Holidays are here and I don't know how to afford it. I have so many people to buy for, but I'm unemployed. How can I manage to buy gifts and not fall further into debt?

I get this question quite often this time of year, and not just from jobseekers. Even those with good jobs ask how they can save money on gifts.

I've struggled with this, as well. When I was first divorced, I spent several hundred dollars on my daughter's gifts.

Last year, though, I learned my lesson. Oh, I bought her a ton of stuff: a skateboard, earrings, a watch, and a few other items.

I spent $10.50.

How? By following a few simple steps.

Bartering. This is the oldest form of commerce and one that you've most likely used at some point, trading a good or service for one of comparable value. If you want a particular item, ask if you can trade. It's most effective to have an item in mind prior to pitching it, though. Many free weekly papers have "for trade" sections, so you can check locally. Also check www.craigslist.org (click on your city, then look for the "for sale" section, then click on "barter." There are even a number of websites devoted soley to bartering, such as www.barteritonline.com, www.SwapThing.com, www.U-Exchange.com and www.trashbank.com.

Thrift stores. They get a bad rap. I've purchased men's jeans for $2.50 that you absolutely could not tell were not new. I bought a pair of Santa Claus slippers for $1.00 (and a pair of Bob the Builder slippers for another $1.00). This is where I bought the skateboard for my daughter for $1.50. Be careful and inspect the merchandise before buying, and wash/clean the stuff before wrapping. Yard sales are also good for this, but here in Upstate New York, the yard sale season is over.

Online. Sure, you can shop for the lowest prices and even set up a search agent, but the smart money is on buying in bulk. eBay, for instance, has a "wholesale" section where you can buy lots of items at discounted prices. If you're looking for remote control vehicles, why not buy a lot of six, give three as gifts, then sell the other three? I've done this and actually made money on the endeavor. You can't do better than making money off of shopping.

Draw names. If you have a large extended family, you probably do this already. Instead of buying tons of gifts, you draw one person's name and only buy for that person. Everybody gets gifts and everybody saves money.

There are a ton of other money-saving gift ideas, from making gifts to getting in fights with everyone you know, then making up after the Holidays. You don't have to spend a lot to get a lot, though.

IN A NUTSHELL: You can save money during the Holidays, particularly if your funds are low.

NEXT FRIDAY: In Case of Emergency Permanently Changes to Reader's Questions

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Andre's Answers and Roger's Requests

2005-11-24T05:05:00.000-08:00

Roger Federer is arguably the best shot maker in men's tennis history. When he hits a ball, it goes where he wants with almost surgical accuracy.

This, as you may guess, causes his opponents to fall to the wayside nearly every time.

This happens a lot in interviews, too. Interviewers become Roger, firing precise questions at jobseekers, making them move around and looking for their weaknesses.

The best defense?

Be Andre Agassi. Agassi has won so many titles because he's the best return man in the game - maybe ever.

He returns the shots well because he practices. Even when he doesn't feel like practicing. He knows the guys on the pro circuit gun for him. So he returns and returns and returns.

Agassi knows how to win titles because he knows how to return.

You can be Andre. Practice your interview answers. Make your answers a natural reflex. Be the returner.

IN A NUTSHELL: To beat Roger, you need to be Andre.

NEXT THURSDAY: Worst...Interview...Answers...Ever.

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: Transferring Your Skills

2005-11-23T06:51:00.000-08:00

We all get in a rut from time to time. We need a change. We need to break out of what we've done so we can do something different.

That's why vacations were invented, after all.

That's also why some change jobs or switch to entirely different careers.

How do they do it? With transferrable skills.

Many years ago, for instance, I worked for a large bank. With a journalism degree. That may have been weird enough, but the man one next desk over from me had a degree in German.

Yes, German.

And we were both, at that time, bankers.

A few years later, he wound up managing an IT department. With a degree in German. I wound up helping job seekers find work. With a degree in journalism.

He developed his skills by being the go-to guy for computer issues in our department, and parlayed that into a career. I helped my co-workers find jobs when our department was shutting down due to a merger.

What kind of skills do you have that you can transfer to another line of work? More than you think.

If you've exercised your leadership abilities (even without a manager title), for instance, you can transfer that into a management position. Helped write the safety procedures for your department? You could go into tech writing? Ever sell something? You could sell something else, as well.

Don't be locked into one thing. You have tons of skills. Transfer them to the position you want.

IN A NUTSHELL: Break out of your career rut by transferring your skills.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: When to give 1,245,829.4%

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: First Contact With Mr. Smith, Part 2: The Winning of The Sally

2005-11-22T05:51:00.000-08:00

Sally is Mr. Smith's eyes, ears and fists.

Sally keeps his calendar, runs the office and screens out unqualified jobseekers. Mr. Smith couldn't get by without Sally and he knows it.

Thing is, you can't get to Mr. Smith except by going through Sally.

Not that it will be easy. You can improve your chances of face time with Mr. Smith by winning Sally over.

Remember her name. I bombed a job interview once when the interviewer asked me what the receptionists name was. Far beyond that, you should look at Sally as a peer, whether or not she makes a mere tenth of the job you're vying for. Consider her a friend you haven't met yet. You remember your friends names, and you should remember hers, as well.

Use her name when talking to her. This is quite often overlooked. People like other people who use their name. People love to hear their own name. Sally will love it - and you, too.

Google her. Yes, this may be cheating, and yes, you may come up empty on the search. If you notice that she's the past president of the local quilt exchange, though, there's nothing wrong with casually mentioning how cold it is and you're glad you have you mom's home made quilt. People like others whom they have something in common with.

It may not be easy, but you will be able to win over the Sally.

IN A NUTSHELL: Treat Sally as a peer - or even better - as a friend.

NEXT TUESDAY: First Contact With Mr. Smith, Part 3: First Impressions.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Death to Ready-Made Templates!

2005-11-21T05:33:00.000-08:00

Resume templates do more harm than good.

That's right. I'm not a fan. Not by a mile.

They look cheesy. Most recruiters and hiring managers can smell them a mile away. Gosh knows I can. The headings have gray shading, they usually have the same fonts, and they look almost exactly like a zillion other resumes. Also...

It shows you don't know how to use a word processing program - or, worse yet - don't care to learn. If you can't take the time to learn a word processing program, ask a family member or friend to format your resume for you.

It's a bear to edit them after the fact. I make a large portion of my income by writing - and re-writing - resumes. I would much rather shave my legs with a dull, rusty cheese grater than deal with a restricting template. The margins are never right, the indents are too rigid and, many times, there are columns involved.

So what should you do instead of using a template?

Learn a word processing program. Yes, it's the most obvious solution, but the obvious is quite often overlooked. I suggest Microsoft Word; it's the standard in business. Take some time to learn it. It's really not that difficult.

Locate the nearest 15 year old kid. He or she will be able to format your resume for you. Kids today are one step away from having computers implanted in them, anyhow. Trust me. They'll be able to help.

Hire a professional resume writer. This is not the slam dunk it should be, however. Many resume writers are only professional because the have been paid. The quality in work varies widely. Remember: you get what you pay for. While I do write resumes, I don't mean to use this advice to necessarily drive business my way.

Make use of your local Department of Labor office. Many offices offer resume workshops and - better still - people who are quite capable of working up a resume for you (if time allows). They're also free.

There are many other options. The important thing to remember is to never use a resume template.

IN A NUTSHELL: Like I just said - never use a resume template.

NEXT MONDAY: How to hire a resume writer.

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Questions From Readers

2005-11-18T05:57:00.000-08:00

I need cash to supplement my current income. I was thinking about making a few bucks with online auctions. Is this a good way to go?
- Stu in SF

Well Stu, I can give you the short answer, but that won't fully answer your question. The short answer, of course, is "you bet." But it may be helpful to take you the long way around.

Register. In order to sell on an auction site like eBay or Yahoo! Auctions, you need to register with them. This involves giving your contact information over a secure connection. Registering is usually a very short, simple process.

Payment. You'll need to determine how you want to get paid. If you ask me, the faster the payment, the better. That way you can ship the item out faster. You can take cashiers checks and money orders, but I strongly advise against accepting personal checks, for obvious reasons. I do, however, strongly advise you to sign up with an online payment service like PayPal, which allows (for a small fee) a nearly instant transfer of funds.

Listing. You can list your items in an auction format or fixed price. To determine how much to start your item at, take a look at similar items that have sold recently. Also, make sure you charge enough for shipping and handling, but not way, way more. Buyers pay for the shipping.

Tools of the trade. You will also need an electronic camera. Or, if you don't have one, you will need to scan pictures of your items. Tracking your inventory is important, as well. You can use a spreadsheet or a regular sheet of paper, but you should keep track of what you have and what you sold.

Taxes. The IRS says you have to pay taxes, so keep your sales tracking current.

Be realistic. You won't sell everything. Nor, for that matter, will you always get the price that you want. And, no matter what anyone tells you, very few people make a full-time living or get rich soley from online auctions. But it is a good way to pay for gas and groceries.

Hope this helps, Stu. It's by far not comprehensive, but this info should at least get you started. Most of what you'll learn is trial and error.

IN A NUTSHELL: Online auctions are a great way to supplement your income, so long as you have everything in place. Just don't expect to get rich right away.

NEXT FRIDAY: Questions From Readers (they keep coming)

Check out the previous In Case of Emergency post here.

INTERVIEWING: Practice Like The Karate Kid

2005-11-17T06:37:00.000-08:00

The old guy taught the young boy the basics of blocking punches and kicks. Over and over. And over. Yes, the old guy had his fence and house painted, his car waxed and his deck sanded in the process, but the kid did learn.

You don't have to be "The Karate Kid" to make use of practice. You do need the reps, though. A lot of them.

Wax on, wax off. Polish your answers to best highlight your skills, achievements and experiences. For instance, instead of telling the interviewer that you annual reviews were outstanding, explain that you requested overflow work from a different department and passed it out to your team members during your team's slow periods.

Paint the house. Dress up your flaws so they don't seem quite so bad. Instead of telling the interviewer you lack focus, tell her you tackle multiple projects but are trying to ease up on yourself and take on less.

Sand the deck. Make your delivery smooth. It will be smooth and natural, so long as you have the reps behind you.

Paint the fence. First impressions count. Practice you handshake and smile. Rehearse your opening line.

IN A NUTSHELL: Practice waxing the car, painting the house and fence, and sanding the deck.

NEXT THURSDAY: Andre's Answers and Roger's Requests

Check out the previous Interviewing post here.

ADDING VALUE: Brain Steroids

2005-11-16T05:14:00.000-08:00

With all the talk about alleged steroid abuse in Major League Baseball and the National Football League, one has to wonder why they take the chance with their body, not to mention their careers.

Conversely, brain steroids are good for you and your career.

We're not talking about injecting yourself with chemicals or pharmacudicals, though.

While steroids will potentially help you build muscles, they will only do so with regular exercise.

Much in the same way, brain steroids will help your brain only if you exercise it. The two biggest brain steroids - the two best ways to get a job and get ahead are:

Sleep. Didn't see that one coming, did you? But if you don't get ample sleep, you won't be able to think clearly. You may think you're thinking clearly, but trust me - you're not. Try to get six or more hours each night.

Diet. Don't skip meals - that can wreck havoc on your body chemistry and adversely affect your thought process. Avoid junk food, too. The higher quality fuel you have, the better your engine (read as: "brain") will run.

And, just as those on the "juice" need to pump some iron to get larger muscles, you need to exercise your brain. Do crossword puzzles. Read. Challenge yourself with the sample Mensa test. Work your brain as you would your biceps.

IN A NUTSHELL: Brains are like muscles - use 'em or lose 'em.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Transferring Your Skills

Check out the previous Adding Value post here.

NETWORKING: First Contact With Mr. Smith, Part 1

2005-11-15T05:11:00.000-08:00

You've networked and researched and sluethed. You know that Mr. Smith is the hiring manager at ABC Corp.

But how do you contact him for the first time?

Phone. Unless you have Mr. Smith's direct line, you'll most likely be talking to his assistant, Sally. Sally can either be your friend or enemy. Be prepared to answer her questions, as she's good at screening people out. She'll ask you what the nature of your call is, whether Mr. Smith is expecting your call, and the like. Sally will also try to steer you to someone else so you won't be Mr. Smith's - or her - problem anymore. Be prepared to answer her questions in a non-confrontational way. An effective technique is to ask for her help. It's amazing how much information Sally will give you when you beg ignorance.

Email. I steer people away from making initial contact with Mr. Smith by email. He's a busy guy, after all, and gets a log of email. If he doesn't recognize your name or email address, he'll zap your note to the electronic graveyard.

In Person. When Mr. Smith was younger, it was common for candidates to show up and apply for jobs. That seldom happens anymore, which makes this truly a gonzo approach. By that, I mean do so at your own risk. Mr. Smith may find you either rude for just showing up and expecting to take time from his busy schedule, or a delightful change from the ordinary. In effect, your odds of success are 50/50 - if that. If you're going to make first contact with Mr. Smith, it would be wise to meet him in more of a quasi-social situation, such as the Rotary Club he's a member of.

Mail/Fax. Unless you've laid the groundwork with Sally, don't waste your time, paper, nor postage. Sally gets the faxes and opens the mail. You aren't able to schmooze her if you don't talk to her. And her trash bin is right next to her desk.

There are ways to improve your chances of success for all four categories, however, and we'll explore the pros, cons, pitfalls and winning stategies for all of them in the coming weeks.

IN A NUTSHELL: Contacting Mr. Smith for the first time requires as much skill, effort and patience as it took to ascertain he's the hiring manager.

NEXT TUESDAY: First Contact With Mr. Smith, Part 2: The Winning of The Sally

Check out the most recent Networking post here.

RESUMES: Bulk Mailing

2005-11-14T05:02:00.000-08:00

EDITOR'S NOTE: Thanks to everyone who emailed asking when I'd be back from vacation. Thanks also to the influx of people who subscribed to the newsletter while I was out. Suffice to say, I'm back rested and ready, though not really tanned.

"There's gold in them there hills!!!"

If you were a prospector in the Old West, you most likely would have either heard that phrase...or said it.

I'm here to tell you there's still gold in them there hills. Metaphorically, that is. There are tons of jobs open. There are tons of employers looking for qualified candidates.

In many ways, looking for work today is just like panning for gold in the old west. You can find what you're looking for so long as you don't waste your time and efforts.

One way many jobseekers waste time is by blindly mailing or emailing their resumes to employers - without even researching the companies. I've even heard "send 100 resumes each day" as if it were a rule of thumb or dogma.

If you were panning for gold, would you blindly try 100 streams each day? Or would you find out which streams have the best chance of you finding gold and hit them?

Here's hoping you picked the second option.

If you send 100 resumes each day, I will guarantee three possible outcomes: 1) you will spend a boatload of cash on postage, envelopes and resume paper; 2) your emails will be regarded as spam in employers' email boxes; and 3) even if an employer reads your resume and cover, it will be evident you know nothing about the company.

Sure, you may get an interview. But then, if you thow enough darts while blindfolded, you also might hit the board once or twice.

The smarter route, then, is to send targeted resumes to companies that you've actually done some research on; to companies with employees you have networked with.

You'll save a wad of cash, your resume will have a better chance of being read, and you will wind up with more interviews.

Happy panning.

IN A NUTSHELL: Looking for work is like panning for gold: research the streams. Send out your resumes the same way you'd work a stream: do so where the gold is likely to be.

NEXT MONDAY: Death to Ready-Made Templates!

Check out the previous Resume post here.

New Posts Starting 11/14!!!

2005-11-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

I'll be back from vacation soon.

Fresh posts will resume on November 14.

But you don't have to wait to sign up for the newsletter!

VACATION WEEK

2005-10-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take some much needed time off. Regular posts will continue next week.

VACATION WEEK

2005-10-24T05:20:00.000-07:00

This week, I have decided to take a much-needed vacation. Fresh posts will start up again 10/31/05.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Surviving the Anti-Windfall

2005-10-21T06:38:00.000-07:00

It would be nice to win a $358 million lottery, wouldn't it? We all fantasize about what we'd do if and when we win that windfall.

Unfortunately, the odds of having an "anti-windfall" are much, MUCH higher.

It happened to me a few years back. I was recently divorced and had shelled out a wad of cash to pay the ex for the house. I had regular child support payments. Then, in one weekend, my dishwasher, oven, refrigerator and hot water heater died in what I can only assume was a major appliance suicide pact.

Then my car died.

And my daughter needed glasses and dental work.

I was bleeding money. I could not earn enough at that point to outpace the outgo.

But I survived. I kept plugging along. I nabbed a couple side jobs. And I got through it.

And you will, too.

Even if you don't win the lottery.

IN A NUTSHELL: Keep your spirits up and focus. You will get through financial downturns.

NEXT FRIDAY: Reader's Questions.

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: All Shapes and Sizes

2005-10-20T07:37:00.000-07:00

Back in the day, you could get a good-paying jobs by sitting across the desk from someone. One conversation. A handshake and a hearty "welcome on board!"

For good or ill, that just doesn't happen much anymore. If you've been out of the job market for the last few decades, modern interviews may throw you for a loop.

They needn't, though. Just be prepared. Here are a few different kinds of interviews you will likely face:

Phone. This is often the first step for hiring managers and human resource departments. You won't usually get a job based on a phone interview, but you can lose one. Practicing your phone manner will increase your odds of making the cut.

Facetime. This is familiar to most, as it's the most traditional form of interviewing. You will usually have more than one interview, though. Most professional-level jobs require three or more interviews, including...

Panels. Across the table or desk, there will be three or more people, all of whom will interview you, sometimes letting you answer before another asks more questions, sometimes not. Panel interviews tend to induce profuse sweating. Quick word of advice: practice the panel interview.

IN A NUTSHELL: Interviews have changed over the years, but you increase your odds of success by practicing the different styles.

NEXT THURSDAY: Behavioral? Whaaa...???

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: How To Delegate for Best Results - OR - Getting the Buy-In

2005-10-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

"It's not the song. It's the singer."
- Mick Jagger

You already know from last Wednesday's post that most like to be asked to do - or even assigned to do - tasks. It makes them feel instrumental. Important. Needed. Even validated.

How you ask, though, is just as important as what you ask. Barking orders saps the empowerment juices from people. Asking like a shy mouse, however, drains your leadership credibility.

There are a few other ways to obtain buy-ins from those below, equal to, and even above you in the food chain.

Stress importance. I had an editor once who assigned me an important story, stressing "you NEED to ask him how much this will raise taxes." That he assigned such an important story to me (with three weeks on the job) was empowering. That he pointed me in the right direction and stressed how important it was ensured my buy-in. Of course, it also ensured I accomplished the assigned mission.

Tit-for-tat. In other words, you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours. In my early years, this often involved helping people move or do home improvement projects, with the agreement that I would do the same for them. In my later years, it involves serving on (or chairing) committees, with the understanding that the favor will be returned.

Pleading ignorance. I have used this technique quite often. I admit that sometimes I don't know what I don't know, and present this fact to people who do know what I don't know. By the time they've caulked the holes in my wall of knowledge, they usually volunteer to join my project just to make sure it's done right.

Of course, there are many other techniques. Hopefully, though, this will get your juices flowing.

IN A NUTSHELL: Obtaining help and delegating assignments depends on how you ask as much as what you ask.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Brain Steroids

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Finding the Right Contact Person

2005-10-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

So you want to work of a huge company, eh? Good. Who's going to decide whether you're going to be hired? And how do you find out who that is if you don't know?

Internet. Yes, the trusty Web is a fine thing, indeed. If you're looking for employment in a huge company, check their website, which they will most surely have. Click on the "About Us" link. Check out the products and services links. Generally speaking, if you dig far enough into a company website, you will find with the decision maker's name and contact information. If not, you will likely be able to find someone close enough to the decision maker to network your way into an interview.

You should also read articles about your prospective company. Decision makers are often interviewed and/or quoted. And when they're quoted, their titles are provided. This is vital information.

Organizations. This is a juicy piece of advice I give out on a regular basis - because it works. Most organizations, such as Rotary Clubs, are populated with business people and executives. They have their own networks you can tap.

Alternatively, with a little digging, you can find out if the prospective company favors a particular club. Many monoliths favor membership in Toastmasters International, for instance. Attending a few meetings of a "favored" club can reap a wealth of contact information - or actually meeting the decision maker.

Ask. Sure, this is "old school," but it works great. Ask your associates if they know anybody who knows anybody in the organization.

Pick up the phone and call the company. Does the automated system ask for an extension? Make one up - and then another and another. Does it ask you to spell out the name on the touch tone phone? Spell out "Smith," "Jones," or even "Greene." When you get a live human being, apologize for getting "lost" in the automated system and ask for the correct department chief.

IN A NUTSHELL: With a little work, you can find the decision maker.

NEXT TUESDAY: First Contact

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Sending Methods

2005-10-17T05:22:00.000-07:00

You can contact an employer - as well as contact any living human being - five different ways. You can't submit your resume by phone, however. That leaves four viable submission methods:

Mail. Believe it or not, some employers still prefer paper resumes. This can get expensive for the jobseeker. You can reduce the cost, however. Generally speaking, you needn't send your resume in a large envelope to avoid folding. By tri-folding your resume and sending in a business envelope, you'll realize a savings of anywhere from 15 to 50 cents per mailing. That adds up.

Fax. Make sure the employer accepts faxed resumes. Also verify the fax number. If you don't own a fax machine, you can save money by faxing your resume from your local Department of Labor office, who will do it for free (faxing from a copy shop can cost you a buck or more per page). You can also fax directly from your computer, but make sure to use a quality program - otherwise the employer may receive your pages chopped or garbled.

Email. Have a plain text and Word version of your resume. Past the plain text version in the body of your email and attach the Word file. This way, the employer will still get your resume even if the company server strips attachments.

In Person. This method should be reserved for only those employers who specifically request it. You can also use this method if your occupation requires a certain amount of brashness. But if an employer doesn't want walk-ins, you're taking your chances.

IN A NUTSHELL: Submit your resume as the employer requests, but save money when possible.

NEXT MONDAY: Bulk Mailing

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Taking a Job-Hunting Vacation

2005-10-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you need to recharge your batteries and enthusiasm for looking for work. Sometimes it's essential. Vacations help you to not burn out.

So I'm taking one today.

IN A NUTSHELL: Recharge your batteries by taking a day or two for yourself.

NEXT FRIDAY: Surviving anti-windfalls.

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Interview Practice

2005-10-13T05:21:00.000-07:00

I had learned how to juggle three tennis balls by the time I was seven, and how to spin a basketball on my index finger by the time I was 10.

I wasn't born knowing how to do either of them. In fact, I failed over and over to do both before I got it right.

Ditto with my interviewing skills. I thought I was a born interviewer. Unfortunately, my early experiences didn't bear that out, as I wasn't hired for every job I interviewed for.

Most are in the same boat but don't know it. Every week, at least one of my clients tells me, "if I get an interview, I'll get the job."

Despite evidence pointing to the direct opposite. After all, if they were right, they wouldn't be my clients.

I encourage people, whether they have a job or not, to regularly practice their interviewing skills. Have someone you don't know well interview you, and do it once per month. Of course, have a different person interviewing you each time. Ask a friend to ask one of their friends whom you haven't met to do it.

Work your way up from a one-to-one interview to a panel interview. As you move up the position food chain, you will encounter these panels - and you should be ready for them.

Also practice phone interviews. Increasingly, companies will use the phone as a low-cost way to pre-screen potential candidates. If you blow it on the phone, you won't be called in for face time.

Make it as real as possible. Go the the person's place of work for the interview in a small conference room. Dress the part. Act exactly as you would for a regular interview. (The bonus here is if the person doing you this favor is actually in your field or line of work, you may actually be positioning yourself for a non-posted job.)

After the interviews, make sure you get feedback. Let your interviewer know that you want the bad along with the good. Having them sugarcoat their evaluation will not help you. Just be ready for some healthy criticism.

I learned to spin a ball and juggle by practicing. Just like interviewing. You can too.

IN A NUTSHELL: Practice your interviewing skills on a continual basis. This will lead to drastic improvement and better chances of landing job offers.

NEXT THURSDAY: Different styles of interviews.

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: Why to Delegate

2005-10-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

"If you need something done right, you've got to do it yourself."

We've all heard that phrase. Some of us may have even said it.

But the phrase is nothing more than a steaming pile of dung.

That's right. Dung.

The mark of a true manager is delegation. The mark of a true professional is not only knowing you don't have to do it all by yourself, but you shouldn't do it all by yourself.

Did you know that people are happier when asked to do something? In fact, they will like you more than if you offer to do something for them.

When you delegate, you can also take advantage of many people's strengths. This adds up to the project being completed better.

IN A NUTSHELL: Don't be afraid to delegate.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: How To Delegate for Best Results

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Give a Little to Get a Little

2005-10-11T05:13:00.000-07:00

As ye sow, so shall ye reap.

You only get back what you put in.

Don't abondon the flower.

You've probably heard - or even said - at least one of these phrases. Their essence is the same - you have to give to get. The same is true with networking, as well.

Yes, you want a job or maybe even a better job. Most will be happy, for the most part, to help you out in that regard.

Unless you're a mooch. A taker.

Then the spring of help will, sooner than later, dry up.

You have contacts and knowledge. Share these with your network freely. Share just as freely as you expect to get from your network.

IN A NUTSHELL: Networking is not an "only take" endeavor.

NEXT TUESDAY: Digging up the right contact person in a huge company.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: White Space Rules of Thumb

2005-10-10T06:58:00.000-07:00

We bring you free daily job search advice. Even on National Holidays. Because it's a jungle out there.

You may be asking what white space is and why it matters when looking for work.

Simply put, white space is the amount of...well, white space - or blank space on your resume. Too much, and your resume looks barren and you don't appear to have enough experience. Not enough, and your resume looks ugly, cramped and like a page of straight text.

But when you have just the right amount of white space, your resume is visually enhanced. It will be pleasing to the eye.

A few tips on hitting the right white space balance:

Watch your margins. Anything less than 1/2" or more than 1 1/4" and you're in no-man's land.

Watch your indents. Better yet, don't indent.

If you've reduced your font to get everything on one page, then you should probably be using two pages. Remember: two pages always trumps one cramped page.

Keep an eye on spacing. Don't double or triple space. It doesn't fool anyone. However, if your text space is 10 pt. or 12 pt. and you need just a bit more room, it is acceptable to reduce your spaces to 8 pt.

IN A NUTSHELL: Strike just the right balance on your white space.

NEXT MONDAY: Sending your resume.

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Reader's Question

2005-10-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

From the emailbag:

Q: Is there an easy way to make money on the side?
- Cindy in OR

A: Simple answer: No.

At least, not an extremely easy way. Most take time. But here two low-time/low impact ways to make a side buck.

Online Surveys. That's right. Online surveys. Get paid for your opinion. Run a Google and you'll see tons of sites that offer to point you to paid surveys. The catch: you have to pay a nominal fee (usually under $50) to get access to their lists. While some have testimonials touting full-time income from taking surveys, the reality is somewhat different. I, for instance, have signed up with a service and made a few bucks - but far from anything I could actually live on. Range: Redeemable points to $300, depending on company and how extensive the survey is.

Mystery Shopper. You can get paid to shop, eat out, play golf, etc. Again, Google the term. The more places you sign up with, the more gigs you'll potentially get. You'll need to fill out reports on your experiences, but that's a very low-hassle way to get free stuff and get paid. Range: $10-$50 each.

IN A NUTSHELL: There's no easy way to make a buck, but you can earn extra money with just a little hassle.

NEXT FRIDAY: More letters

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: What To - And NOT To Reveal

2005-10-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

The man across the table asked if I was married (which I was, at the time) and noted the ring I wore.

I froze up, having been warned that marital status was a taboo interview subject, and told him I was uncomfortable answering the question.

But I was young back then, and not altogether confident in my professionalism. Over time, though, I gained that confidence and learned there are the right ways and wrong ways to answer interview questions that are technically illegal.

Q: Are you married?
Wrong Answer: My marital status is none of your business.
Right Answer: While I do have a personal life, I'd like to learn more about who you feel your key competitors are.

Q: Do you have or are you planning on having children?
Wrong Answer: Oh, my yes! I want to have a baker's dozen.
Right Answer: I love children. I'm also a highly skilled accountant (or other profession) and am ready to make an immediate contribution to a firm. Tell me more about your key clients.

Q: How old are you? What year did you graduate high school?
Wrong Answer: 1955.
Right Answer: I've made sure to keep my education and industry knowledge up to date, while gaining valuable experience as my career progresses. What sort of on-going training does your company offer?

A few other things to keep in mind in regard to revealing information during an interview:

Loose lips sink ships. Many an interview has been sunk by blabbering candidates. If you're a blabber mouth, restrain yourself.

Casually mentioning forbidden information. Don't refer to your five kids, that you wore leg warmers in high school or the length of your marriage.

Youthful indiscretions. They're funny to talk about and remember. Except in an interview. Most hiring managers won't be impressed by how you scaled the vine on your dorm nude.

IN A NUTSHELL: Deftly avoid answering illegal interview questions by redirecting with position-related inquiries. Also avoid revealing too much on your own.

NEXT THURSDAY: Interview Practice

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: Choosing the Right Graduate Program

2005-10-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

You already have a B.A. or B.S., but in order to nab the job you want, you may want to consider going back to school for your Masters.

But which one? How do you choose?

Traditionally, the graduate work is done at a different college or university than the one that issued the "Bach." Sometimes that's easy to do (particularly if you live in a multi-college town), other times, it's not.

Where ever you wind up going, however, you'll need to research a few things, including:

How much per credit? This varies widely. Some smaller colleges aren't much more expensive than undergraduate work. They, unfortunately, are the exception rather than the norm. You will likely find many charge $600+/credit.

Will my employer pay for it? In an ideal world, all employers would foot the bill for their employees' education, so long as they stay at the company long enough to pay it off. Check with your HR department. Some companies pay upfront, while others pay a portion. Of those that pay a portion, most pay a smaller percentage if you get a "B," and still less if you get a "C." Also, check with your tax advisor to see how this could affect your taxes.

Is financial aid available? You can always find money for college. If you're out of work, talk to your local Department of Labor. Check online, too. FastWeb offers small loans and grants; piece a couple of these together and it'll be as good as one big one. Also ask the college - they may have leads on grants and loans.

How much time will it take up? It's not uncommon to spend five or more hours for every graduate credit you take. This can be a huge crimp in your style, particularly if you have a lengthly commute to and from classes.

Can I take classes online? Not everyone has the mentality to take online classes. Having said that, they are great for the time crunched - you can take your class any time of day. Some colleges actually offer complete degree programs online. Make sure, though, that they're credentialed so you don't cough up cash to a "diploma mill."

How long until I get the degree? If you go full time, it may take you two years. A few close to me spent five years, taking a class or two at a time. Make no mistake - this is a committment.

Is my family on board with it? Your significant other and children (if you have them) - will they give you the space needed to fulfill your goal? Make sure they are - and that you set ground rules for interuptions.

IN A NUTSHELL: Before signing up for graduate work, research.

NEXT WEEK: Learning to delegate.

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Why Join Organizations?

2005-10-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

If you're a regular reader of wildjobsafari, then you know I urge you to visit organizations when you're unemployed and join them when you have a job.

There are several reasons for this:

Like attracts like. Or, if you like, success attracts success. People tend to associate with others who are at least somewhat like them. For instance, I belong to Toastmasters International, which helps its members achieve their leadership and speaking goals. In other words, we share common interests. Ditto other organizations and clubs.

You are who you hang with. This is a sad paraphrased imitation of what Sylvester Stallone's character said to a little girl in the first "Rocky." If you want to be smart, you hang around smart people, Rocky advises. If you want to be stupid, you hang around stupid people. Piggybacking onto what Stallion said, if you want to be successful, you hang around successful people.

Members help each other. We all have our own network. By tapping other people's networks, your own grows - and vice versa. If the members themselves can't help, chances are they know someone who can. This holds true for pretty much anything from finding a reliable handyman to adjust rain gutters to finding a job.

They're fun! As one of my friends once said, "If it ain't fun, I ain't doing it." As long as you're going to be giving and getting assistance and building friendships, you might as well have a good time doing it.

KEEP IN MIND, though, that not all organizations are created equally. As such, you should research any group you might want to join. Here are a few basic questions to ask:

Why does this group exist? In short, are they just a bunch of good ol' boys sitting around, drinking and lying about things that never happened? Do they contribute to society in some way? The Lions Club, for instance, has a strong focus on the sense of sight.

How does membership benefit the member? Some groups, like Toastmasters, offer education and a chance to practice their skills.

What's it going to cost? Ask about the annual dues in addition to how much the per meeting charge is. Since most organizations hold their meetings during a meal, you should factor this into your decision, as well.

How old are the members? I once spoke at a group where the average age was retirement. As a result, they wanted me to join to add new blood to their club. In all probability, however, I would have derived no career benefit from joining.

IN A NUTSHELL: Join an organization or two to help your career, but research the groups before joining.

NEXT TUESDAY: Give a little to get a little.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Layout

2005-10-03T05:04:00.000-07:00

The four clients I saw Thursday and Friday had a lot in common.

They all had been in their respective industries for many years and will be assets to their next employers. They are hard working, honest and detail oriented.

Unfortunately, their resumes were also laid out wrong. Here's a few things they botched and how you can avoid doing the same:

Too much white space. To put it another way, words were sparse. The margins were thick, there were eight spaces between jobs and, in one case, it was stretched out to five pages. Since no employer wants to read anything that long, we went to work. When we were done, no one had more than two pages. Why? Five pages looks like you were trying too hard to fluff your experience, which makes your resume shredder fodder.

Not enough white space. This is the other end of the spectrum. In the misguided notion that you must limit your resume to one page, no matter how many skills, degrees, duties and qualities. This gentleman shrank the typeface to 8 point and expanded the margins to 1/4". Make sure you have at least 1/2" on all margins. Also make your typface at least 10 point - or your words may not be read. If an employer can't read your words, he or she may just as well wad it up and try to make a three-pointer into the basket.

Some centered, some left-justified. While I, like many, prefer resumes that are left-justified, I have read many very good resumes that are centered. I have never, however, had a favorable opinion of those where some things are centered and some are not. It's disturbing to the eye. Always keep it uniform.

IN A NUTSHELL: Keep your text uniformly left-justified or centered, and make sure you have neither too much nor too little white space on your resume.

NEXT MONDAY: White space rules of thumb.

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Readers' Questions

2005-09-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

From the e-mail bag:

Q: I just lost my job. What should I do first?
- Samantha in Fishkill, MT

A: Thanks for your question, Samantha.
You didn't mention what kind of work you do, but there is something I encourage everybody who's lost a long-time job to do:

Mourn.

That's right: mourn. A large part of any adult's identity revolves around their career. Most of us spend more time with our co-workers than with our families.

When you lose something so close, it hurts. It's very much like losing a loved one. You need to allow yourself the time to come to grips with it before you can move on.

Coincidentally, most states won't give you an Unemployment Insurance check for the first week, which makes it the best time to grieve your loss. Feel bitter, cry, curse, get angry and come to grips with the fact that you won't be walking through those same doors again.

Your second week, sign up with at least one head hunter and/or employment agency per day. This will increase the number of people looking for work for you. This is also the first week you'll get your UI check.

On the third week, begin your networking in earnest.

Remember, Samantha, that this is something most of us go through during our lives, just as death is. Mourn both. Give yourself the chance to achieve closure before moving on.

IN A NUTSHELL: Use your first week of unemployment to mourn your job loss.

NEXT WEEK: More Reader's Questions.

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Pre-Interview Prep

2005-09-29T05:32:00.000-07:00

Many interviews go awry before they even start.

Here are some common pre-interview mistakes and how to avoid them.

Ice Cold Sweat. Relax. Breathe. It's just an interview. Like the old commercial said, "never let them see you sweat." Don't let them feel you sweat, either. Dry your palms before the introductory handshake.

Where's my interview packet? Make sure you lay out your packet, including several copies of your resume, reference letters and portfolio, the night before. Or put it in your car.

You're not going to wear THAT are you?!? You don't need to consult a fashion consultant, but you do need to make sure you are dressed for success. If you have any doubts, ask a trusted friend.

You had spinach for lunch, didn't you? This may seem obvious, but it's often overlooked. Make sure your teeth are free of food, tobacco and other debris. And finish a mint just before going in.

Sorry I'm late... Show up 10 minutes early. Check out the travel and traffic conditions and plan accordingly.

IN A NUTSHELL: Prepare before your interview to start off on the right foot.

NEXT THURSDAY: What to - and to not - reveal

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: Demonstrating and Honing Your Leadership Chops, Part 2

2005-09-28T05:01:00.000-07:00

Leadership abilities often separate those who get the position, promotion or contract from those who don’t. The paradox, of course, is how do you demonstrate your leadership abilities before being hired?

I asked William Self, President of The Leadership Factor in Rochester, NY, for his thoughts on leadership.

“We all have leadership skills inside of us. We simply need to bring them out. We need to practice them, and, like many things in life, the more you practice the better you get. In other words, we can learn how to become leaders by getting into the action.

“In many ways a leader is a teacher. He or she educates others and shows them how to accomplish what they have set out to do. A true leader, then, is more of a facilitator, who understands that the ones being led are responsible to get things done, and that he or she simply shows them how to be successful, much like a coach would to the players, even if the leader is part of the team.

“One of the essential ingredients for leadership is enthusiasm, because it spills over to the ones who are relying on their leader. Enthusiasm translates into making the work to be done very important to the followers. It makes the efforts put forward significant and makes the followers feel they are making a difference in what they are doing.

“Before you can lead others, you need to develop confidence and clear thinking. The process starts with understanding the direction that you want to follow and the goals you want to accomplish. In order for people to follow you, however, you need to express these goals and directions clearly.

“An excellent way to improve in this area is through Toastmasters. It is an organization that teaches communication skills, not only in public speaking skills, but in the ability to organize your thoughts and ideas, including written, in compelling ways that persuade others. Toastmasters can help potential leaders become outstanding communicators and practice the leadership that will make them more successful in their work and personal lives.”

IN A NUTSHELL: Practice your innate leadership skills, coach others, express enthusiasm, have confidence in yourself and consider joining Toastmasters.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Choosing the right graduate program

Check out last Wednesday’s post here.

NETWORKING: Always Be Prepared...Even If You're Not a Boy Scout

2005-09-27T07:19:00.000-07:00

Do you carry a variety of coins on a regular basis? Wear a rubber band or two on your wrist? Keep a change of clothes in your car? Own a generator? Ever taken a class in a foreign language?

In short: Do you do things or own things "just in case?" You know, so you'll be like a Boy Scout and "always be prepared?"

Chances are you answered "yes."

Have you met people and clumsily searched for a pen and scrap of paper to write down contact information?

You've probably answered "yes" to that one, as well.

Just as you have a jack and a spare in your vehicle, just as you own an umbrella, so too should you put together and carry a networking kit.

Business Cards. This is by far the most convenient networking tool to carry. I carry a small supply wherever I go - even in my shorts when I run 5K and 10K races. Include your name, email, website and blog address, phone, and your occupation. I also encourage a branding slogan, which you can read more about here and here .

Pen. If your contact doesn't have his/her cards, you can write his/her contact info on the back of one of your cards. (If you have the resources, have your name, web or blog address and phone printed on a supply of pens and give them out.)

Resume. This is to carry at all times. You should, however, have one within easy reach. Keep a few copies in your car, briefcase, and at friends and relative's houses (I've made many of my contacts from being introduced by people we know in common).

It's a small pack to carry and have available. But then, so are most First Aid kits. They're made to be portable so you can always be prepared.

IN A NUTSHELL: Always have a networking kit with you. You never know who you're going to meet.

NEXT TUESDAY: Why to join organizations and how to use your memberships.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: One Page?...Two?...Three?

2005-09-26T05:02:00.000-07:00

One of my clients, who was two years out of college, gave me an eight page resume.

You read that right. Eight pages.

I called him. He said that since he'd been freelancing his design and animation services, he was comfortable sending the tome to employers.

I pointed out that his experience related to the full-time position he was interested in was hidden on the sixth page.

"Oh," he said, "they'll find it."

He didn't get the job. Was it because the employer didn't find it? Maybe.

Other clients of mine have gone to great (read as: "creative") lengths to keep their resumes to one page. Some set the margins at 1/4", some use eight - or even six - point type. One of my clients even put his resume on an 11" X 14" sheet of paper.

The fact is, you don't really need to keep your resume to just one page, but you better have a darn good reason to have a third page. Keep in mind that even if you stack your resume appropriately, you may need a second page.

But how do you know if you should keep to one page or two?

If you are less than two years from you last degree, you should have a one-pager. Anything more than that and employers will know that you're either fluffing the truth or pompous.

If you want to obtain a professorship at a college or university, you should have more than a one-pager. You will have at least a masters degree, and more likely, a doctorate. Your resume will be a "vitae," which will be, by its nature, longer. A vitae is a different animal, which we'll discuss at a later date.

If you are angling for a CFO or CEO position, you will have more than a one-pager.

If you have been a waiter, customer service representative or other front-line worker and are posting for a first-level manager position, you will likely only need a one-pager.

If you are using a typeface smaller than 10 point in order to keep to one page, you need a second page.

If your margins are the edge of the paper, you need a second page.

If you are listing every single duty you had for every job (no matter if they're related to the position you're applying for or not), and you're almost to the end of your second page, you can probably get by with a one-pager.

As you can see, the line between one and two page resumes is drawn by reason. Make sure you need a second page, but at the same time, don't be afraid of it, either.

IN A NUTSHELL: Review your resume to see if you're cramming everything or stretching it out needlessly, then re-evaluate. And, if needed, re-do your resume.

NEXT MONDAY: Layout

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: A Question From A Reader

2005-09-23T05:20:00.000-07:00

Questions from readers are always encouraged. Here's one "in case of emergency" question that came by my desk recently.

Q: After my divorce, I lost my job and ran up my credit cards. I still don't have a job, I've maxed my cards and my unemployment checks have stopped. Basically, I have no income. How can I save my house and car?
- Sally in Brentwood

A: Sorry to hear about your stretch of bad luck and misfortune, Sally.

First, you mentioned that you were divorced, but didn't mention if you had children, thus child support payments. If you are due child support, you should stay in touch with your lawyer to ensure you get the money you're owed.

In order to avoid the nightmare of bankruptcy, you also need to pay down your debts and make sure you retain your house and car. In order to do this, of course, you need income and to reduce expenses. Try these tips:

Rent out space. Take on a tenant by renting a room. Or two. Consider leasing out part of your basement and/or garage to folks who are moving.

Kill Your TV. Or, at the very least, kill your cable. You can only watch a channel at a time, anyhow. If you have a monthly fee for TiVo - type service, kill that, too.

Get different wheels. Getting a cheaper car will reduce monthly payments and your insurance. If you have more than one car, get rid of the one with the higher payments. For additional savings, take your car off the road and car pool, take public transportation, or even ride your bicycle.

Sell your stuff. We all have stuff we haven't touched in the past two years. Sell it. Hold a garage sale or two. If you have an account with an online auction service like eBay, start selling! If you don't have an account, you know someone who does. Ask if s/he will sell your items for you.

I hope this helps, Sally. Thanks for your question.

IN A NUTSHELL: Rent out space, get rid of cable, reduce car expenditures and sell your stuff.

NEXT FRIDAY: More Questions From Readers

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Dress the Part

2005-09-22T05:19:00.000-07:00

We drove separately but approached the counter of the trucking firm together. I wore jeans and a polo shirt, while he had a crisp wool suit and tie.

Neither of us left with the job.

The difference, though, was he wanted the shipping and receiving job. I wanted to move a house full of belongings.

I spoke to the manager several times during the course of the project and she made reference to the well-dressed applicant. The manager said he looked more like a customer and I had looked more like an applicant.

Her words rang true with most employers: dress the part. Some will even advise to dress one level higher than the position you're interviewing for.

Just as you wouldn't wear ripped cut-offs and a t-shirt with a funny slogan to interview for a CEO post, so too should you avoid overdressing like the applicant at the trucking firm.

Here are a few additional things to avoid (but, unfortunately, are all too common):
Under dressing. You may have a beautiful body, but showing it off with a skimpy outfit won't help your job prospects. This may sound like common sense to most of us, but I've witnessed this error many, many times.

Flamboyances. We all have our own styles and tastes. When interviewing, however, avoid outlandish ties (e.g. fish ties, wooden ties, etc.), bold colors (e.g. bright orange shirts, two-tone shoes, etc.), and prints (e.g. palm trees, Elvis, etc.). You can show off your style slowly - after you've been on the job for a few weeks - but don't vie to be called "goofball."

Dressing for someone else’s body type. Wear clothes that fit. If you're a person of size, don't wear clothes that used to fit; avoid clothes that overstress buttons and stretch fabrics. Similarly, if you're a thin person, avoid baggy clothes. Tall? Short? Wear pants, suits and shirts appropriate to the length of your legs, arms and torso.

IN A NUTSHELL: Conservatively dress for the position you're interviewing for.

NEXT THURSDAY: The Pre-Interview Prep

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: Demonstrating and honing your leadership chops, Part 1

2005-09-21T05:19:00.000-07:00

You already know employers like leaders. The catch, though, is how to demonstrate your leadership to prospective employers with whom you have no track record. Further, how to you improve your leadership abilities?

According to Douglas Johnston, President of The Leadership Handprint, he and other employers look for several leadership abilities:

"How do they deal with the transition? Are they positive about it? Do they take accountability, or do try to blame others? This shows me how they might lead in the workplace.

"Have they taken advantage of resources and been resourceful in pursuing those available to them? This shows if they will be resourceful in the workplace.

"How do they network? I look to see if they help others and how they respect the network. This one is interesting. This shows you what type of person they are. It is interesting how many people milk the network. Do they ask the person they network with what they can do to help that person? And do they follow up?

"What is their vision for what they want to do? Have they thought through what they are looking for, the type of company, type of job and type of work environment they want?

"The communication style of the person and their follow up is also a key leadership attribute."

Johnston also suggests several ways to fine tune your leadership abilities:

"Look who you associate with, who you try to spend time with, and your professional associations. I will ask what groups they have joined or associated.

"Give back to the community. I also want to see how they give back to community.

"Read books. I will ask what books a candidate has read recently, or leaders they look up to or model."

IN A NUTSHELL: Demonstrate your leadership abilities by being positive, resourceful, having a vision and correctly networking. Grow your skills by giving back to the community and reading.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Demonstrating and honing your leadership chops, Part 2

Check out last Wednesday’s post here.

NETWORKING: How to Make Six Degrees of Separation Work (Even If You're Not Kevin Bacon)

2005-09-20T05:03:00.000-07:00

You've probably heard about the Six Degrees of Separation. The theory goes that every person is no more than six steps removed from any other person.

(The theory is mutated comically when it comes to movies. There, the theory goes, every film actor is no more than six steps removed from working with Kevin Bacon.)

Does it necessarily need to take you six steps to get to any one person? Probably not; you can get to most people in few steps.

But you may want to take the extra step and seek out the extra "degree." That's not necessarily a bad thing.

Each person (or "degree") you speak to will talk to other people. Even if they mention you to only five people, you now have five new "second degrees" - and five new opportunities to build "third degrees." Then fourth and fifth.

This is not to encourage you to waste time. In fact, it may well prove to be the opposite: if your "target contact" turns out to be a bust, at least you've made new contacts, thus increased your odds of landing a job.

IN A NUTSHELL: While a straight line may be the shortest distance between two points, you'll develop more job leads with a curvy path.

NEXT TUESDAY: Always be prepared - even if you're not a Boy Scout.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Cover Letters

2005-09-19T05:47:00.000-07:00

What should you put in your cover letter? And, after sweating over each word, do employers actually read cover letters?

As you can imagine, I get these - and many other - cover letter questions all the time.

First, what you should include in your cover letter.

Paragraph 1: Express your interest, state the position title and how you heard about the opportunity. This paragraph should be quite brief. If you wordsmith it right, you can include all of that information in one sentence.

Paragraph 2: Show why you're right for the position. Avoid the rookie mistakes of repeating what's on your resume and parroting the ad for the position. Show that you've done a little research on this company and mention one or two of their products or services. Offer a tidbit not on your resume.

Paragraph 3: Again express your interest in the position. Tell them you'd be interested in discussing this opportunity. Mention that your resume is included, as well as, if you've included them, reference letters and/or samples of your work. Feel free to also supply your contact information again.

The rest is your ending salutation.

Now that you've labored over your cover letter, ensuring the punctuation and spelling are just right, that there are no run-on sentences or fragments...will the employer read it past the first paragraph?

As always, there are two schools of thought, here. The first, obviously, is yes. The second, just as obviously, is no.

I tend to fall into the "no" camp. Hiring managers are flooded with resumes and cover letters, and usually only scan the top paragraphs in the covers. Does that mean you can ignore all standard grammar rules? Ummm...no. It does mean, however, that you shouldn't sweat the small stuff and re-invent the wheel every time you write a cover letter.

Develop a template using the paragraph scheme above, then plug in the information for each position. Given you're only applying for two or three related positions, you most likely will not have to change five or six easy things in each letter. After all, why sweat over writing something brand new every time?

IN A NUTSHELL: Reduce your cover letter stress by developing a basic three-paragraph template using the structure mentioned above.

NEXT MONDAY: One Page...Or Two? ...Or Three?

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Living (Temporarily) Like a Thief

2005-09-16T04:46:00.000-07:00

Now that you know how to make some fast cash (read last Friday's post), it's time to focus on saving a wad of cash.

It ain't gonna be pretty, but it's not going to be forever, either. Here are a few quick (albeit drastic) money-saving tips:

Kill the Cable. You can live without Food Network for a couple months. Ditto the other 247 channels. If you pay $60 each month, your two month savings=$120.

Coupons and Store Brands and Snacks, Oh My! Your food bill is a big chunk of your budget. Invest in the Sunday paper and cut coupons. Then go through the supermarket circulars to see what's on sale. Buy only sale items you have coupons for, or, if you absolutely need the item, buy the store brand. Don't buy junk like soda or cookies or ice cream (hey - it's only for a couple months!). If you follow this path, you will likely cut your food bill by $20-$50 each week. Given your savings average $35/week, your two month savings=$280.

Eat At Home. Dinner for two at a restaurant can easily top $40 for two chicken parms. You can make the same meal at home for about $5/person. That means you save $30! Given you would normally eat out four times each month, your two month savings=$240.

Take Your Car Off the Road. That's right, drop your insurance. Make sure you can borrow someone's car when needed, or take public transportation - or get on your bicycle. Yes, it will be inconvenient, but you can live with it for a short period. You will still have to make your car payment (if you have one, but consider the following: car insurance (figure $70/mo) and gas (figure $40/week) add up. Doing so, your two month savings=$520.

Like I said - these tips ain't pretty, but they aren't designed for the long-term, either. But if you utilize all of these tips, your two month savings total=$1160!!! That's $1160!!!

And, in two months, you will hopefully have found either a job or multiple revenue sources to live on.

IN A NUTSHELL: Drastic times call for drastic cost-saving measures.

NEXT FRIDAY: Questions From Readers Like You

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: How to Show Your Portfolio

2005-09-15T04:33:00.000-07:00

Do you have a portfolio? It's not just for artists and writers anymore.

I worked for a large bank many years ago and was gunning for a promotion. I wanted to set myself apart in the interview and could not necessarily rely on wit or experience.

But I did have the foresight to copy the favorable notes managers and co-workers had given me. I also had a number of customer letters praising my abilities and talents. Additionally, I made copies of the weekly and quarterly individual statistics, as well as my formal reviews.

I bought a small zipper portfolio with cellophane pages and made a book out of my work.

When the hiring manager asked me what I could bring to the table, I brought my portfolio out and explained the data and information in the book.

I got the job. And other jobs after that, as well.

I had set myself apart.

(Technology has come a long way since then. Today, I encourage my clients to have an electronic version to show on their laptops.)

You can show your portfolio during an interview any number of ways. I waited until the magical question came up. You might want to match how and when with what you do, however.

Salespeople and managers should be more forthright. When rapport is built the the hiring manager, bring out your book. This will help guide the interview along the path you want. In this manner, it will show enthusiasm and leadership.

Engineers, writers and artists don't share the burden salespeople do; you don't have to be as forceful. During your interview, you will likely get a question starting with, "tell me about a time when..." Here, you can not only give a verbal answer, but a visual, as well. Use an example that is highlighted by your portfolio. And then continue showing your portfolio.

Construction and repair workers should take before and after pictures, then place them side-by-side in your portfolio. At some point, you will likely be asked what you enjoy about your job. Show your portfolio and explain the joy you get in on doing a job well.

However you show your portfolio, keep a few things in mind:

Refer back to your portfolio later in the interview. Occasionally start an answer with, "As we discussed when I showed you my portfolio..."

Leave a copy of your portfolio with the hiring manager. As you will have extra copies of your resume to leave behind, so too should you leave a portfolio copy with each resume. If you're involved in a panel interview, make sure everyone on the panel gets a copy.

Make paper and electronic versions of your resume. While I used an analog portfolio (because laptops weren't mainstream yet), I encourage you to show your portfolio on a laptop. And leave a CD as well as hard copy of your portfolio behind.

IN A NUTSHELL: Develop a professional portfolio and show it during your interviews.

NEXT THURSDAY: Dress the Part

Check out last Thursday's post here.

Adding Value: Email Newsletters You Don't Want to Miss

2005-09-14T05:12:00.000-07:00

There are some very good career-related email newsletters out there.

...And there some that are not so good.

I subscribe to about a dozen email newsletters; some are work search related, some are not. When I check an newsletter out, I look for "The Three F's": A) Focus; B) Frequency; and C) Freebie.

With that in mind, below are a few email newsletters that every job seeker should subscribe to. They meet the all three F's and I don't make a dime from referring them.

WildJobSafari. Because a growing number have inquired, now you can get an entire week's worth of free jobsearch advice in your email! Just send an email by clicking here. Think about it - WildJobSafari by email each week. Because it's a jungle out there.

The Vault offers a weekly newsletter dealing with many aspects of the job search process from the perspective of various industries.

About Job Searching has a good email newsletter, written by Alison Doyle. She's a professional with tons of experience in helping folks find work. A must for job seekers.

Kim Komando has four e-newsletters (I subscribe to the weekly version). While her newsletters do not deal with looking for work, they have a wealth of computer-related information translated so the average person can understand. A great way to improve your value for any organization.

IN A NUTSHELL: Subscribing to free email newsletters can help you improve your value and work search capabilities.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Demonstrating and honing your leadership chops.

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Branding II: Your Website or Blog

2005-09-13T05:50:00.000-07:00

A question came in asking what developing a website or blog has to do with networking.

Simply put, they are key pieces of your electronic networking. They are your world wide face. Your handshake, even.

Your website should have your email address (if you're nervous about putting your address and phone) information on every page. It should also be easy to navigate (as a professional, you can appreciate the rationale).

As mentioned in yesterday's post, the easiest way to create a website is to save your resume as html in your word processing program.

Your blog should also be simple. Oh - and professional, both in tone and in name. If you have a blog counting down the last moments of a celebrity's life, start another one where you discuss your industry.

Both your blog and website can help your networking:

They can show up in search results. Submit your site to Google and others, then play with the meta tags (more on them in a future post) to get more hits.

They can show an employer your passion for your industry. They can also answer how in depth your knowledge is.

They can house your portfolio. How many times have you waited for a huge file to open when it's emailed to you? Hiring managers don't have time to wait for them to load. But, by sending a link to your site and/ blog, they'll have a much easier time checking your past work out. That, and you won't be clogging up their in box and they'll love you for it.

You should include your website and/or blog in all of your emails (personal or work search related), on your resume, cover letters and business cards to maximize your coverage.

IN A NUTSHELL: You should have a website and/or blog that is professional and easy to work with. Register them with search engines and make sure their URLs are on all of your communications.

NEXT WEEK: How to Make Six Degrees of Separation Work (Even If You're Not Kevin Bacon)

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: How to Make an Impact With Your Electronic Resume

2005-09-12T06:40:00.000-07:00

Your resume is polished and proofread. You've even followed the advice in last Monday's post and created a plain text version of your resume so you can copy and paste into your emails and onto website applications.

Now what?

Now it's time for your resume to make an impact.

We touched on "stacking" your resume last week. That is to say, top-loading your resume with your skills and traits. Let's start this week by delving a little deeper.

You should stack your resume so that HR departments can find you, since their queries will likely only scan the first 200 words of your resume. The more buzz words and skills within the first 200 words, the better the odds you will make it out of the electronic slush pile.

A key tip: List every computer program. You may know Word and Excel very well. Microsoft Office Suite contains those programs and others. But if you only mention the software suite (assuming "most people know Word and Excel are part of Office"), you may linger in the slush pile if the query is specifically for "Word" and "Excel." The same holds true for other software suites, as well.

You can also add pop to your resume by turning it into a webpage. Most word processing programs like Word or OpenOffice allow you to save your document as html. Once it's in HTML, you can upload it to a free service like Blogger.com or GeoCities.com. You can increase the odds of visibility to your resume website by tinkering with the meta tags in the source code (use the Google Search Box on the right side of this page to get free info on meta tags).

You can also add impact to your resume by getting into more than just one set of hands. Go to a company website and dig around some. Look for the key personnel. Check out the site map and search for names, titles and email addresses. You'll be amazed at what you can find if you look hard enough. Once you find the key contact names, email a short introduction and your resume in the body of the email.

IN A NUTSHELL: Make an impact with your electronic resume by stacking it, using it to create a simple website, and getting it into more hands.

NEXT MONDAY: Cover letters.

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Fast cash Part I

2005-09-09T05:52:00.000-07:00

I had a mortgage in a high-tax suburb, a wife, child and car. I had credit card bills and insurance premiums to pay, as well as food to buy.

Oh, yeah - and I had also been out of work for six months.

Since my Unemployment Insurance check had dried up, I did the only logical thing. I worked 75 hours each week in four jobs for four different temp agencies.

I was in the right forest, but climbing the wrong tree. I could have spent fewer hours working and made more money.

If you're strapped for cash, you can, too. There are some jobs that pay more than others, at times that are conducive to a job seeker.

Waiter/Waitress. Here, we're talking about upscale and chain restaurants, rather than corner diners. Think Red Lobster. Think Olive Garden.

Think about this: during a four-hour dinner shift, you will likely be handling four tables per hour. Even if you're stiffed by one table per hour, you will still likely average a minimum tip of $5 per table. That's $20 per hour. Not bad for a part-time gig.

Freelance. It's not just for artists or writers anymore. Approach a company in your field and pitch your services - particularly if they aren't hiring. Explain what services you will provide and at what cost per hour.

There are two possible positive outcomes: 1) they sign your letter of agreement; 2) they tell you they have a contract with an agency.

If they work through an agency, ask which one, then approach the agency. Tell them XYZ Company wants to take you on as a freelancer. Then suggest to them that since they don't have to find a candidate themselves, they pay you more than they would have normally. Most temp agencies have a large profit margin, so suggest they split it in half with you, considering you've saved them a lot of effort.

Mow lawns. Yes, mow lawns. And it's not just for college kids, either. Presuming you're able to push a lawnmower, you can do this.

My neighbor has a quarter-acre lot and pays $23 to a service that only does her front yard - and it takes them less than 15 minutes to do!

Talk to those in your area who use lawn mowing services. Put a few circulars around. If you price your service accordingly and have enough houses, you might be able to mow four to eight lawns per day - and it would only take you a few hours per day.

If there are vacant lots or homes for sale near you with overgrown vegetation, they could well be your customers, too. Call the town clerk and find out who owns it, then call the owner. Pitch them on the idea that the town will charge far more to mow their lawn than you will.

All three of these jobs take just a few hours per day, which leaves plenty of time for networking and interviewing. You won't get rich - not by a long shot - but they will help keep the wolf from the door. And you won't have to work 75 hours each week.

IN A NUTSHELL: Keep the wolf from the door by making fast cash with traditionally college jobs, as well as using your expertise on a per diem basis.

NEXT FRIDAY: Living (temporarily) like a thief.

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Negotiating Pay

2005-09-08T11:40:00.000-07:00

In last Thursday's post, we discussed how to determine what a job may be worth in terms of money.

Now that you're armed with what the job is worth, it's time to negotiate the highest salary possible. Here are just a few suggestions:

What is the maximum you have budgeted for someone with my experience and credentials? This is a great answer when asked what your pay expectations are. It puts the ball in their court.

Start high. Companies will always try to talk your price down. If you start at what you need to survive, they will try to go under even that. Besides - the goal is to make more - hopefully much more - than you need to survive.

Serve and volley. The reason Andre Agassi wins so many matches is he's the best returner professional tennis has ever seen. He knows how to respond to what's given to him. Likewise, you should be prepared to go back and forth with the prospective employer.

Walk. Be prepared to turn the offer down if the pay is not what you deserve or need. It probably wasn't the job you wanted anyhow.

IN A NUTSHELL: Put the ball in their court, start high and be prepared to haggle. And walk, if needed.

NEXT THURSDAY: Showing your portfolio.

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE:You Is a Good Communicator. You Know You Be.

2005-09-07T04:32:00.000-07:00

Nothing can take you out of the running for a job - or promotion - faster than poor communication.

You've probably seen "excellent written and verbal communication skills" in job descriptions. That's for good reason: you could have the best concepts the world has ever seen, but if you can't communicate them with customers, team members or management, who's going to know how brilliant you are?

A few items to look for:

Attention to betail. That's right: "betail." I've seen that on more than a few resumes. Misspellings show lack of focus. Employers will assume that if you can't catch your mistakes on your own resume, then you probably won't catch them on the job, either.

To avoid this mistake, run the spell-check, what you've written backwards. That's right - backwards. You may spell a word correctly, but it may not be the right word (e.g. "to" vs "too" vs "two;" "affect" vs "effect;" and "further" vs "farther"). Reading the piece backwards helps catch a lot of misspellings.

Um...Er...Ah... Sure, most of us use these vocal fillers at one point or another, but doing so too often will detract from your message. And kill your interview or presentation.

A proven, effective way reduce your vocal fillers is by practice. Toastmasters International, for instance, allows its members speaking practice. Many clubs even ring a bell whenever someone uses a vocal filler.

SIDEBAR: As a Toastmaster myself, I can tell you first hand that the bell is pretty annoying at first. As your fillers go down, though, so too does the frequency of the rings.

Lacking focus and bake at 350 for 25 minutes before I like dogs. Rambling kills. In resumes, use facts - not a conversational style. Ditto in interviews. And presentations.

Again, the best way to improve your focus is to practice being focused. Practice not rambling.

The bonus with communicating more clearly is you will begin thinking more clearly.

IN A NUTSHELL: Increase your odds of landing a job - or promotion - by improving your communication skills.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Subscribe to Must Read E-Newsletters (none of which I receive a dime for mentioning)

Check out last Wednesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Marketing and Branding Yourself, Part I

2005-09-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

Coke. Pepsi. Kodak. Nike. Microsoft.

What do they all have in common?

I mean, other than being publicly traded and worth billions.

You know the companies by their logos. When you see that familiar white swirl against a red backdrop, you know it's Coke. Even without the word "Pepsi" separating the red and blue semi-circles, you know the company. That big yellow box? That omnipresent swoosh? Those digitized windows?

You know these companies because they're brand names. They've branded themselves.

These companies spend truck loads of money to advertise and brand themselves. You don't have to do that.

But you do need to brand yourself. You need employers to think of you when they have a particular need.

How do you do that without going broke?

Have a web presence. It can be something as simple as a one-page site with just your resume. It can be a blog. Or it could be a full-blown website, complete with samples of your work, and audio and/or video. Just be sure you make it professional. Prospective employers aren't as eager to hire the author of "CoverMeWithCheez" as you would think.

Include your web address on all work search related correspondence.

Make business cards. It's become trendy in recent years for job seekers to have "personal" business cards. They're handy to pass out when carrying a resume isn't feasible. Get them professionally designed - or at least designed by somebody with a flair for that kind of thing.

Develop a catch phrase. Coke has "The real thing." Microsoft has "Where do you want to go today?" Even this blog, wildjobsafari, has "Free daily job search advice. Because it's a jungle out there."

You can even impart a little humor. One of my clients, whose last name is "Smith," decided to poke a little fun at his common name. He used the phrase "Yeah. THAT Smith."

IN A NUTSHELL: Whenever networking, push your brand: pass your business cards out and point employers to your web site or blog; both should have your catch phrase.

NEXT TUESDAY: Branding II: Your website or blog.

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Paper Resumes vs. Electronic

2005-09-05T06:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day!

Job seekers often ask me if electronic resumes should be different than traditional paper versions.

The answer, of course, is yes. And no.

Yes, in terms of formatting. The easiest way to erase all formatting from your "regular" resume is to copy and paste it into Notepad. Doing so is akin to removing lipstick and eyeshadow with coldcream. The bolds, italics, larger fonts, underlining, shading and bullets are gone. You're left with just the facts.

Don't let that bother you.

When you save this version, it will be as a .txt file, which is readable across computer platforms. Plus, you can send it in the body of your emails, as well as copying and pasting it onto websites.

I do advise putting astricks where the bullets were, however. That way, if/when the electronic version is printed out, the individual items will be set off.

But is that all you have to do to have a viable electronic version of your resume?

No.

Unless you've already "stacked" your paper resume, that is.

Most HR departments search resumes electronically for key words. Their queries, however, usually only scan the first 200 words or so of a resume. If the phrase, buzz word or skill they're looking for is at the bottom of your resume, chances are you won't get through that first, albeit impersonal, round of screening.

That's why it's crucial to have a "Skills" section near the top of your electronic resume. If you do the same for your paper resume, so much the better; the HR rep. will see your skills set easily that way, as well.

Put your computer skills, industry-specific skills, etc. in the Skills section. Put anything that is remotely related to the prospective position in the skills section.

A word about formatting: some separate skills with "..." and others with a comma and space. Both are acceptable.

IN A NUTSHELL: Make sure you have a plain text (electronic) version of your resume to copy onto website forms and send by email.

NEXT WEEK: How to use your electronic resume for maximum impact.

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Legally Working While Collecting Unemployment

2005-09-02T05:42:00.000-07:00

You can legally work while collecting Unemployment Insurance.

Sometimes, it makes sense. Other times? Not so much.

Many states allow you to work up to a maximum number of days and a maximum dollar amount. New York, for instance, will reduce your Unemployment by 25% for each day that you work - up to a maximum of four days. You may also make up to barely over $400 during the week (your state may operate in a similar fashion - check with your state's Department of Labor for specific guidelines).

Many states also consider one second of work equal to one full day of work. They also consider 12 hours equal to only one full day of work.

So, if you are looking to optimize your earnings while looking for a real job, taking a part-time gig may not be a bad idea. But you should go into it with a strategy.

For instance: if a company wants to hire you for 20 hours each week, you could work four hours every weekday or five hours in only four days. In either case, you would receive no money from Unemployment. If, however, the company agrees to let you "stack" your hours - two 10 hour workdays, your Unemployment check will only be cut by half. If you make more in those two days than you lose by working, you're money ahead.

IN A NUTSHELL: Check out your state's Department of Labor to see what laws govern your right to work part-time while collecting Unemployment, then develop a strategy to maximize your income.

NEXT FRIDAY: Earning Fast Cash, Part 1

Check out last Friday's post here.

INTERVIEWING: Speaking Of Pay...

2005-09-01T05:38:00.000-07:00

Addressing the matter of pay can cause puddles of sweat for the prospective employee: ask for too much and you'll price yourself out of a job; ask for too little, and you'll be paid less than you should be. Added to that, many employers don't mention a pay range.

How do you know how much to ask for? The follow up question, of course, is "How do you negotiate the pay you deserve?"

Today, we'll tackle the first issue: how to determine how much you should ask for. We'll discuss the second, negotiating tactics, in next Thursday's post.

Determine how much you need. This may seem an obvious first step, but surprisingly, it's often overlooked. You need more than just food, clothing and shelter. You need to maintain - and ideally increase - your standard of living.

Ask others in similar positions what they make. Yes, this is a personal question and it may seem like prying. It may even seem like it's none of your business. If asking, "So, Bob, how much do you make?" makes you uneasy, try a different question. Try something like "Hey Bob - I'm going for my third interview at XYZ, and we'll be discussing pay. Do you mind if I ask what your compensation package looks like?"

Determine the prevailing wage. The prevailing wage is not what you were making. It's what the going rate is for a particular job within a particular geography. It's what the market will bear. The easiest way to determine this is to go onto your state's Department of Labor site. If you can't find your job there, call your local DOL office for help.

Go online. This is the 21st Century, after all. There are a number of sites that can help you figure out how much similar jobs pay: Salary.com, SalaryExpert.com, Monster.com and The Riley Guide all offer wage information to help you out.

IN A NUTSHELL: Determine how much you need, then research what others in your occupation are paid.

NEXT THURSDAY: Salary negotiating tactics

Check out last Thursday's post here.

ADDING VALUE: You Are What You've Done

2005-08-31T08:28:00.000-07:00

Most of us identify ourselves by what we do. That's why job loss is so traumatic.

Consider your answer to the common question, "So, Bob, what do you do?"

The typical answer is "I'm a mechanical engineer," or "I'm a registered nurse," or "I'm a cabinet maker," or something else that completes the sentence, "I'm a ___."

You're more than your answer lets on. Much more. And, while you might think a short answer (like in the examples above) is fine in social situations, you may wish to reconsider. Every social encounter is an opportunity to network.

Hey - you never know where your next job might come from - or from whom.

Expand your answer, then. Give a ten to fifteen second synopsis of what you do. Try something like:

"I've been a mechanical engineer for 15 years. I started when everything was done by hand, but I do most of my work on AutoCAD now. I also do a lot of project management. What do you do, Stan?"

Or:

"I love what I do. I became an RN before many men entered the field, which is a shame. My patients ask for me by name when they're ready to leave, and I guess that's because I treat them the way I would want my mom to be treated. What do you do, Stan?"

Or even:

"I make cabinets. I hand craft each piece to the customer's specifications and don't consider the job done until the project is installed and the homeowners have a smile on their face. What do you do, Stan?"

You probably noticed a few obvious points in the examples above.
*You have briefly blown your horn in a very low-key way.
*You have expressed enthusiasm for your profession.
*You have expressed interest in the other person's profession.

The same formula should be used when at a job interview. The "non-question question", "So, tell me about yourself...?" will most likely come up. Simply subsitute "What do you do...?" with something similar, like "How did you you know you wanted to be a _____?" Fill in the blank with the appropriate occupation. This will help build rapport.

IN A NUTSHELL: Express pride and enthusiasm when discussing your career. Make sure to ask about the other person's profession, as well.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: You Is a Good Communicator. You Know You Be.

Check out last Wendesday's post here.

NETWORKING: Myths and Truisms

2005-08-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

My clients surprise me when they shy away from networking. "Shy" away is what they do, in fact. They fear it.

Most fears, though, can be eliminated by knowledge. The fear of networking is no different. So let's discuss a few networking myths and truisms.

Networking is difficult.
Myth. You network anytime you're introduced to someone or meet someone new. You're even networking when you run into someone you know at the grocery store. You shake hands, exchange greetings and smile. You engage in small talk.

Social networking is not unlike networking for business or your work search. You exchange a little more focused information, true, but meeting people is meeting people. You do it all the time and you will continue doing it. That's not so hard, is it?

Networking seems so desperate.
Myth...and True. It's all in how you do it. If you plead for work or seem desperate, your networking - and indeed, your interviews - will suffer. If, however, you approach it like the professional you are, you will not come across as desperate.

It's that simple. Really. Yes, you want information, but you also have information. Networking is all about getting to know people and sharing information.

Networking gets a bad rap sometimes because of the bad apples - the ones who are only me, me, me. They are the takers and they are not doing it correctly.

Networking doesn't work that well.
Myth. As mentioned in an earlier post, 70% of all jobs are obtained by networking. It works EXCEEDINGLY well.

Networking is a lot of work.
True. But then, most worthwhile things are. You will get out of it exactly what you put into it. If you put in the work, you will get back to work.

Networking is takes too much time.
Myth. It does take time, but you are investing that time. You should spend the bulk of your job hunting time networking since the bulk of the jobs out there are obtained through networking. Don't look at it as time taken from looking for work; look at it as looking for work.

IN A NUTSHELL: Don't shy away from networking. It should be the cornerstone of your work search.

NEXT TUESDAY: Marketing and Branding Yourself

Check out last Tuesday's post here.

RESUMES: Make Bullets Hit the Mark

2005-08-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

A lot of my clients are perfectly well qualified. They have the credentials, experience and skills employers are looking for. Unfortunately, the bullet points on their resume wind up shooting them in the foot more often than hitting the target.

By correcting the aim of their bullets, my clients experience a higher percentage of interviews. Their mistakes tend to fall into three categories.

Be active. Show that you did something rather than something happened because you did it. There is a difference. Compare these two bullets:

*Sold 23% over goal...
*Revenue increased due to my sales efforts...

Note that the first example is active, while the second is passive; the first showed you did something, the second showed something happened because you did it.

Also note that the first example began with an action verb. All of your bullets should begin with an action verb - it's the easiest way to make your bullets active. (We'll discuss action verbs more in upcoming posts.)

Show results. So you sold 23% more than your goal, eh? And what effect did that have? Consider which of these two bullets is stronger:

*Sold 23% over goal, thereby driving annual department revenue growth by 12% and increasing company market share

*Sold over goal

The second example will most likely leave the HR rep scratching her head and wondering, "...aaaand...???"

If you mention what you've done, then mention the positive result of your actions.

Quantify. Take a look at the previous example again. You'll notice that the first example is quantified. That is to say, not only are the results stated, but the results are also stated in a measurable way. Wherever possible, include valid (read as: "truthful") statistics to build your case.

If your bullets hit any of these categories, then you're probably shooting yourself in the foot. By correcting your aim, you will hit your target more often.

IN A NUTSHELL: Write your accomplishments with an active voice, mention the results of your actions, and wherever possible, quantify.

NEXT MONDAY: Paper resumes vs. electronic

Check out last Monday's post here.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: The First Three Weeks

2005-08-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

(A question came in by email about what to do when you're first laid off. We'll discuss legally working while collecting Unemployment Insurance next Friday.)

I had just finished a two month solo project and was happy to be done with it. Content, I went to lunch.

When I returned from lunch, my manager called me into her office and told me to close the door.

SIDEBAR: Conversations that start this way never end well.

That's when she lowered the boom.

Like many who are unexpectedly laid off, I was stunned. But I knew that I was young, smart and talented - it probably wouldn't be long until I found another job - so I began looking for work that same day.

Bad move on my part. I should have taken some time before looking.

A better way to approach things, I now tell my clients, is to develop a three week plan. That's not to say you'll get a job in three weeks, but you will approach things far more strategically.

WEEK ONE
This is an unpaid waiting week for most. Unemployment Insurance won't pay you for this week.

This is an opportune time to mourn the loss of your job. Most of us identify ourselves with our job, and losing your job is akin to a death of a loved one. So take time to mourn and get it out of your system. To paraphrase Hank Williams, have a tear in your beer. Sip warm tea, listen to sad music, wrap yourself in a blankie and look at the rain outside the window. Do what you have to do to mourn.

WEEK TWO
Your second week should be a foundation week. The bulk of your time will be spent contacting head hunters, contract houses and temp agencies. You should aim to sign up with at least three such places each day this week.

The rationale, here, is to get coverage. Head hunters, contract houses and temp agencies will look for work for you. The more people looking for you, the better.

A few words to the wise: Be sure to specify the kind of work and pay you're looking for; if you want a permanent job, mention that. Also, call to follow up with each place only once per week after signing up with them (any more than that and they will stop taking your calls).

WEEK THREE
Begin your networking with a vengeance. Make a list of everyone you know, no matter how long it's been since you last spoke, how little you know him/her or even if you only met once.

Then call them and tell them you're looking for work. Some will help. Get contact names and info from them.

Be sure to also follow the procedure outlined in this post.

At the end of three weeks, you'll have a lot of help in your work search...and you'll feel much better.

IN A NUTSHELL: Take time to mourn your job loss before recruiting an army of people to help you look for work.

NEXT FRIDAY: Legally working while collecting Unemployment Insurance

Check out last Friday's In Case of Emergency post here.