Why Honesty is Key

MyOnlineCareerSpace.com wrote a great post about how honesty, transparency and authenticity are vital to a job search. Especially with the easy accessibility of the internet, the truth will always come out. So it’s better just to be honest from the get-go. And if you’re trying to promote your image in the business world by faking a blog or other virtual presence, it won’t work; you need to actually be contributing something useful.

Four Topics to Avoid in your Cover Letter

Cover letters are important. They’re a chance to show an employer how you’re different from other jobseekers in your field. They’re a way to showcase your communication skills. They’re the employer’s first impression of you.  There’s lots of potential for either consideration or rejection via your cover letter. So let’s take advice from Jerome Young’s 4 topics to avoid in your cover letter:

1. Salary Requirement. This should come in later, after you’ve interviewed. If the employer asks, give a vague answer instead of an actual figure.
2. Why You’re Looking. It doesn’t add anything to your appeal. Lots of people are looking; it doesn’t really matter why (But if you have a compelling reason, you can use it during interview).
3. Desperation. No employer wants someone who really “needs” any job they can find. We rule out candidates if they apply for all 12 of our jobs. It’s not attractive. Show confidence; not desperation.
4. Common Terms. This is your chance to stick out! So don’t use the typical “I’m hardworking and results oriented.” Everybody says that. Say something different.

What to Take to an Interview

So you get the interview you’ve been wanting. You know you need to dress professionally and show up on time (but not too early). But what should you take with you? Jimmy Sweeney insists that “before heading off to talk to a prospective employer, every job candidate should know what to bring to a job interview.” So listen up! This is important. Make sure to bring:

• An up-to-date copy of your resume – bring one for each interviewer.
• A list of references – they won’t ask for it until later, but bringing it to interview shows you’re prepared.
• A (leather) notepad to jot down information you need or questions you have.

And of course, you need to take confidence and a strong desire to get the job.



Why You Should Volunteer at a Non-Profit

Non-profits are always looking for volunteers. So if there’s a non-profit you would like to work at, try volunteering there first. In this economy, it’s tough to get a full-time job at many organizations, but if you prove your worth to them doing volunteer work, they may want to hire you. Alexandra Levit landed her job by volunteering first. Beware: she cautions that larger non-profits are the most likely to hire you.

Keep Those Connections Strong

Networking is the key to landing your next job. So the last thing you should do is jeopardize your relationships within your network. Lindsay Olson puts it simply: “Don’t Burn Bridges.” You’re going to need those contacts in the future when you’re looking for a job. Referrals are a HUGE percent of hiring, so make sure you have a positive image in the minds of anyone and everyone who can refer you to your next job.

P.S. – This season is a great time to reach out to those contacts, as most people are in high spirits!

Top 10 Part Time Jobs

In the meantime while you’re looking for a full-time position… Why not try some part-time jobs (especially if you want some extra cash for the holidays)? The Examiner put together a great list of the Top 10 part-time jobs to try out this season. Here are five intriguing ones:

1. Pet watching/dog walking
2. Tax work
3. Retail
4. Packer for UPS/FedEx
5. Temp

Don’t Let the Recession Get You Down

All the negative news about the recession has made a lot of people give up. Some are worried that they’ll never recover; others worry about taking a job for less money; and others worry about taking a job in the wrong career path. But Laurie from Punk Rock HR warns that the worst thing you can do is fear the recession. Don’t give up! Get out there and do something about it.