Monthly Insights & Musings
In Job Search Mode? Avoid These Four Common Mistakes
Recently, one of the headhunting companies I work with asked if I’d tackle the following question in my next blog. Thanks, gang, for the suggestion! I love recommendations, and I think you’ve chosen a great topic: What are some of the most common mistakes...
Clothing Fails to Avoid (and what to wear instead) for your Next Job Interview
Headed out for a job interview? Not sure what to wear? Well, you’re not alone. In my professional image and career readiness classes, people ask me about appropriate interview attire more than any other question. It seems that no matter how self-assured we are, and no...
Your Resume Cover Letter: A Great Way to Market Your Soft Skills
If you’re currently in the job market, you probably already know the importance of a well-written, personalized cover letter to accompany your resume. You want to mention the name of the organization you’re applying to, the position or title you’re applying for, and,...
Mastering the Art of the Elevator Pitch – Part II
Hi! Welcome to Part II of this article. Let’s jump right in and discuss a few more pointers for how to put your elevator pitch together. Now that you know the basics of an elevator pitch and why it’s important to have one ready at all times, let’s look at some ways to...
Mastering the Art of the Elevator Pitch – Part I
When I work with Millennials and Gen Z students around the country, I’m often asked, “What’s an elevator pitch and why do I need one—or do I really even need one?” My short answer is, Yes! And furthermore, I think everyone needs one. I believe that regardless of what...
Using social media’s “Big Three” – for business-minded professionals – Part II
Hello, and welcome back! Let’s jump right into Part II. As you might remember, we’re talking about the benefits of using social media as a professional tool, for reaching clients, sharing ideas, connecting with colleagues and like-minded individuals, and for making...
Using social media’s “Big Three” – for business-minded professionals – Part I
I work with business professionals every day. And throughout my travels as a professional trainer, coach, and consultant, I’m often surprised by the number of people who dismiss social media and tell me they don’t need it. (And yes, you’re correct: many of them are,...
For recruiters and hiring managers: What to do when your star candidate turns down your job offer
You’ve covered it all, from first- and second-round interviews, to a thorough background check, to introductions around the office. And - oh happy day - you’ve found the perfect candidate! So now, all you have to do is make the offer and your job is finished, right?...
This is How the Pros Leave Voicemail Messages
If you’ve ever called someone, unexpectedly received their voicemail greeting, and then stumbled through a rambling message that was truly cringeworthy, then you know how embarrassing it is to be unprepared on a call. While stammering through a voice message to your...
Company Training Programs: How does yours measure up?
Recently, a publisher asked me to contribute to an article on job training, and they sent me the following request: Query—31% of the U.S. workforce does not receive any formal job training from their employers, a study found. What do you think should go into a good...
How to Stand Out With Common Sense Workplace Etiquette
You know that guy. You do your best to avoid him, because he’s always interrupting everyone’s workflow by talking loudly to his buds on his iPhone, eating odoriferous, oniony cheese-steaks at his desk, or snagging you in the hall to yammer away about his weekend –...
Personal Branding, Part III
Welcome to Part III of my personal branding blog! In Part I, we examined your on-line presence, and in Part II, we began our journey into your in-person presence, starting with your physical appearance. And now we’re going to round out our discussion of your personal,...