Job-Hunt https://www.job-hunt.org/ Mon, 17 Apr 2023 13:40:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://www.job-hunt.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/job-hunt-favicon.png Job-Hunt https://www.job-hunt.org/ 32 32 4 Steps to Grow Your Career as a Young Professional https://www.job-hunt.org/4-steps-to-grow-your-career-as-a-young-professional/ Mon, 15 May 2023 10:33:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27496 Are you focused on growing your career? Here are four essential steps to take early in your career that will accelerate your success.

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At the start of your career, the best way to advance and succeed isn’t always clear. You may be talented at your chosen profession, but you’re still unproven to your boss, colleagues, and industry, which makes it incumbent on you to approach your career growth strategically.

Here are four steps that can smooth your trajectory to the top.

Find a Mentor

Meeting and exceeding career goals usually doesn’t “just happen”—it’s a process that builds over time (or doesn’t) depending on your choices and actions.

One of the most prudent professional decisions you can make early in your career is to benefit from key workplace relationships with people who know more and may be willing to help you out. In particular, intentionally finding and forging business relationships with a mentor can help you achieve success in your company and industry. A mentor is a senior-level colleague who agrees to coach and advise you on issues in your job, company, and industry.

Sean Nguyen, Director of Internet Advisor, explained that when he first started out in the world of online work, he found it quite daunting—he didn’t know where to start, how to manage his time effectively, or even what jobs to look out for. A mentor changed that for him.

“Luckily, when I found my first online job, the CEO of the small business was willing to mentor me and help me to grow my knowledge and skills,” Nguyen said. “I used the knowledge that he taught me to improve not only in that company but in all the other businesses that I ended up working for.”

Seek Sponsors and Other Advocates

While many are familiar with the concept of mentors, sponsors and advocates can be even more instrumental to your career growth.

Sponsors and other advocates are generally even more invested in your career progression than mentors are. They use their own executive connections to help open doors for you while also helping to promote your strengths to others in the organization to create new opportunities.

Sondra Sutton Phung, Marketing General Manager at Ford Motor Company, recommends that young professionals secure a well-respected advocate, which she explains is very different from a mentor. “Advocates must believe in you enough to break down barriers that will inevitably exist in a large corporation,” said Sutton Phung.

Join a Career-Related Community

In addition to the individual relationships you create early in your career with senior-level mentors, sponsors, and other advocates, finding a community of like-minded professionals at different levels of their career can help fuel your own growth more quickly—while helping you enjoy the process more too.

“It’s really difficult to grow your career if you’re off on an island by yourself—you need other people and they need you,” said Jo Harris, a Conversion Copywriter and Business Coach who has over a decade of experience as a remote digital marketer.

One of the easiest ways to seek a professional community is to join an online group that caters to your industry, either through a social media site like LinkedIn or Facebook, or through industry-specific associations and organizations.

Apply Your Passion

Having the best advocates and community in the world won’t advance your career if you don’t do your part to excel. Sponsors will only want to recommend you if you stand out as exceptional, and colleagues in your professional community won’t think of you for opportunities if you come across as bored or negative about your work life.

“However tempting it may be with remote work, forget about quiet quitting and doing the bare minimum,” advised Nathan Brunner, CEO at Salarship, a job search engine for candidates who want to find low-competition employment opportunities. “Pay some time to research the industry and be aware of its latest changes. Take extra time and extra projects, if it’s possible. Remember that good things never come easy, and hard work always pays off.”

Brunner believes that another smart thing you can do to grow your career is to find something you’re truly passionate about. “If you don’t love what you are doing, you will never be able to work at your full potential,” Brunner concluded.

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How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Recipient Name https://www.job-hunt.org/how-to-address-a-cover-letter-without-a-recipient-name/ Mon, 01 May 2023 11:33:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27433 If you don't know hiring manager's name, it's still possible to personalize your cover letter and make a great impression. Here's what you should do.

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You’ve just seen a listing for your dream job. You read the job description and realize you’re more than qualified, so you quickly begin your application. You carefully upload your resume and start drafting a cover letter—only to realize you don’t know who to address it to. 

Baffled, you double-check the job description, but the name of the hiring manager isn’t listed. So, what do you do?

Below, we go over a few steps you can take to address your cover letter when you don’t have a name.

Search for the Hiring Manager’s Name

Conduct an online search to find the name of the hiring manager. Tools like LinkedIn can be great for this. You can search a company’s LinkedIn profile to find the name of the person in that position.

For example, if you know the job ad says you’d report to the senior software engineer, you could use the company’s LinkedIn page to search for employees that hold that title. Then, once you find the name, address that person in the cover letter (make sure to double-check the spelling!).

Focus on Their Position

If you absolutely can’t find their name, focus instead on the position the person holds. For example, if you’re reporting to the content manager, you might try “Dear Content Manager” or “Dear Content Team” when addressing your cover letter.

A Last Resort

If you’ve tried the first three steps with absolutely no luck, it’s OK to use “Dear Hiring Manager.” If you have a name or title, that is preferable to something more generic. But using “Dear Hiring Manager” in your cover letter will suffice when all else fails

Avoid These Common Mistakes

There are some common cover letter mistakes that can be costly for job seekers. Even if you don’t know who the hiring manager is, avoid using “To Whom It May Concern,” as this is too vague. At the same time, “Dear sir or madam” is too formal (in addition, some people may not identify with these personal pronouns). 

Also, avoid time-specific greetings. “Good morning” or “Good evening” aren’t considered a best practice for cover letters, since you have no idea when the hiring manager will be reading them. 

Address Your Cover Letter to the Right Person

Cover letters are still a necessary part of the job search process. However, it can be challenging to craft a compelling cover letter when you don’t know who to address it to. If a name isn’t provided, do your research to find out who your recipient is. And if all else fails, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice in a pinch.

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6 Executive Job Search Strategies https://www.job-hunt.org/new-executive-job-search-realities/ Mon, 17 Apr 2023 13:32:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=8513 Are you looking for your next executive-level role? Here's how to work with executive recruiters, negotiate benefits for the best possible offer, and more.

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Once you reach the executive level, you should elevate your job search strategy to a higher level as well. Recruiters and hiring managers have different expectations for candidates who are conducting an executive job search—and as a senior-level job seeker, you should be prepared to not only meet but exceed these expectations.

Keep in mind these key points that executives need to be prepared for and plan for when job searching.

Search With Clarity

Linda Shaffer is Chief People and Operations Officer at Checkr, a leading HR technology company, where she handles the people and legal teams. Based on her extensive experience in hiring and doing HR for hybrid teams, Shaffer believes it’s important to have a clear understanding of what you’re looking for in an executive position.

“What are your goals and objectives? What are your top priorities?” Shaffer said. “Knowing this will help you to narrow down your search and target positions that are a good fit for you.”

Consider Hiring a Coach

As you think through the answers to those questions, it may help to have a guide.

Bonnie Whitfield, Human Resources Director of Family Destinations Guide, suggests that if you haven’t had any professional coaching before, the executive-level job search would be a good time to start.

“A coach can help you polish up your resume and cover letter so they’re ready for prime time,” Whitfield said. “They’ll also help prepare you for interviews with questions like, ‘What is your greatest strength?’ or ‘What is your biggest weakness?’ The answers will come more easily after working with a coach because they’ll give you examples of what other people have said in similar situations, so that you can use those same words to answer questions during an interview.”

Know Yourself

Another area where a professional coach can help is in understanding what you bring to the table as a job candidate.

Senior-level managers have a career’s worth of experience and skill-building under their belts, and as an executive job seeker, you need to be able to distill your background down into key selling points about your expertise and offering.

With this in mind, Shaffer emphasized that it’s important for executive job hunters to have a strong understanding of their most significant qualifications and experience. “What makes you stand out from other candidates? What are your key strengths and weaknesses? Be prepared to highlight your qualifications and sell yourself to potential employers,” Shaffer said.

Research to Align Your Skills With the Company

In addition to knowing yourself, you also need to understand what the hiring manager is looking for—and ensure there’s a fit.

Kimberley Tyler-Smith, an executive at the career tech platform Resume Worded, reminds executive candidates that not every company operates the same way or requires similar skill sets from their employees.

“Some companies may want executives who are more focused on strategy,” Tyler-Smith said. “In contrast, others might prioritize people who can get things done quickly and efficiently—it all depends on the company’s needs. This is why it’s essential to do some research before going in for an interview, so you can be sure that your skills and experience align with what the company is looking for.”

Grow Your Network

When you’re at the executive level, it’s not just about what you know—it’s also about who you know, according to Whitfield.

“It’s important to be aware of that and make sure that your network is as strong as possible when you’re searching for a new position,” Whitfield said.

She added that exec job seekers should keep in mind that networking isn’t only about reaching out to people who may be able to connect you with opportunities—it’s also about being open to connecting with those who may not have a job opening directly related to your current career path at the moment but who could still become valuable mentors or contacts down the road.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

At the executive level, you have ample experience in the last stage of the job-search journey: negotiation. Leverage your career learnings about advocating for yourself and what’s important to you in an offer.

“When you do finally receive a job offer, be ready to negotiate salary, benefits, and other important factors,” Shaffer concludes. “Don’t accept the first offer that comes your way. Try to negotiate for the best possible package.” 

However, as experienced as you are and no matter how well you advocate for what you want, it may still be necessary to have a backup plan.

Tyler-Smith pointed out that while many companies are interested in having experienced executives on their teams, not all are willing to pay top dollar for that experience. “If you’re looking for a new job as an executive, it’s essential to be prepared for this possibility and create a plan B if it turns out that your salary expectations are too high for the role,” she concluded.

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Clear Signs It’s Time to Leave Your Job https://www.job-hunt.org/clear-signs-its-time-to-leave-your-job/ Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:03:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27409 Leaving your job can be tough, but it can also be the right move for your career. Here's how to know when it's time and how to land a new job quickly.

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Leaving a job can be scary. What if it’s a mistake? Or, what if you can’t find a new position? Despite these concerns, there are times when leaving a job is the right thing to do for your career.

Below, we share a few signs that it’s time to leave your job and how to find a new one quickly. 

When It’s Time to Quit Your Job

Leaving a job isn’t a decision to make lightly. However, there are some red flags that, when combined, can signal that it’s time for your tenure at a company to draw to a close.

Consider some of the following signs that it’s time for you to look for a new job.

People Don’t Trust Each Other

If colleagues don’t trust each other, you’re in a toxic work environment. You’re not going to be able to collaborate effectively, and the team won’t be productive enough to hit their goals.

You deserve to feel safe at work; if you can’t trust your colleagues or boss, it’s time to start exploring your options.

There’s No Room for Growth

No reasonable employer would expect you to work in an entry-level position (with entry-level pay) for five years. Eventually, you will outgrow your role.

If you’ve learned all you can from a job and don’t have any room to continue to hone your professional skills, it’s likely time for you to look for a new position at a different company.

There’s a High Turnover Rate

Your manager left in your first month on the job. Your favorite work friend has quit after only six months with the company. If it seems like everyone at work has incredibly short tenures with the company, that’s a red flag that you’re not in a healthy work environment. 

Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do to change a company-wide problem. If you notice high turnover rates at work, the best thing to do is get out. 

Preparing to Leave Your Job

You know it’s time to quit your job, but how can you find a new role quickly? Below are a few tips to help you land a new position. 

Get Clear on What You Want

Get crystal clear on the type of job you want. Don’t just think about job titles.

Consider whether you want to work remotely or if you’d prefer a hybrid job. Do you want to work a standard 9-to-5, or do you want to find a company that offers flexible work schedules?

Think about what you’re looking for in a job, so you can target companies with positions that meet your needs. 

Update Your Resume

You’ll need to update your resume before submitting it in a job application. Make sure to highlight your most relevant skills and experience. Be sure to focus your resume on your accomplishments—don’t just provide a list of daily tasks. This will help you stand out from the competition.

In addition, tailor your resume to each position you apply for. Do this discreetly so you can job search without your employer knowing.

Work Your Network

Your network plays a vital role in uncovering new opportunities. If you have friends and family you can trust, let them know you’re conducting a discreet job search, so they can refer you to anyone they know who’s hiring. 

In addition, consider joining LinkedIn groups to network with industry professionals and uncover hidden job opportunities. Make sure to choose relevant groups for your role and industry.

And remember, networking is a two-way street. Be sure to reciprocate and help your network with introductions, referrals, or advice. 

Find a New Job

Sometimes, jobs simply don’t pan out for a feasible long-term role. If this has happened to you, it’s time to start looking for a new position. By identifying what you’re looking for in a role, updating your resume, and leveraging your network, you’ll be able to find a better job where you can thrive. 

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Get Market-Ready by Investing in and Using Job Search Skills https://www.job-hunt.org/get-market-ready-by-investing-in-and-using-job-search-skills/ Mon, 13 Mar 2023 13:35:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27764 Are you updating your resume and engaging with your network? Here's how to stay ever ready for the job market in five essential steps.

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Vulnerability is the word that experienced job seekers use to describe something they desperately want to avoid in their next job search. Getting out of touch with the job market can happen surprisingly fast, even if it’s only been a few years since your last job search. Minimize your risk exposure by sharpening or maintaining job search skills.

Are you keeping your job skills up to date? Good move to future-proofing your career! An equally important but often overlooked skill set is the one needed to conduct a job search. Being a savvy job seeker requires a cross-section of skills, including writing, researching, marketing, sales, presentation skills, and cultivating an online presence. Avoid getting overwhelmed when you’ve lost a job by positioning yourself for success today.

Before you throw your hands up in the air, investigate available resources (many of which are low-cost or no cost). Consider a month-to-month LinkedIn premium membership to test features and determine the benefits. When you are ready to launch a search, you can then renew the subscription to take full advantage of the platform.

Take these five simple steps to get started.

1. Consider Your Resume a Living Document

Your resume remains a mandatory ticket to the game. Don’t let it collect dust or you’ll delay entry into the game. Update your resume as needed or at least yearly to include position changes, additions to education, certifications, new skills, etc. Capture accomplishments with contributions cited in performance appraisals, acknowledged by awards won or proven with goals achieved through incentive plans. Memories are short and recall is difficult if you don’t document along the way.

Get on a recruiter’s radar more effectively by archiving your resume on LinkedIn with this feature. On your profile, go to “Jobs,” then “Application Settings,” click on “Upload Resume,” and toggle the switch to “Share your resume with all recruiters.” A recruiter can now use the data from your resume and profile to match your skills, experience, education, and accomplishments with the position they are seeking to fill.

2. Treat Your LinkedIn Profile as a Dynamic Marketing Tool

Setting up a profile is step one to being findable by employers, but all you’ve accomplished at this stage is telling the world you’re open for business. Don’t assume you now have a placeholder and nothing more needs to be done for if/when you start an active search. Understand that recruiters are always scouting for talent. Most are using the behind-the-scenes LinkedIn Recruiter tool, using search criteria to sort through the 875 million worldwide users. Stay current and relevant.

Periodically review and update these three sections in particular: headline, job titles, and skills. These are the most highly indexed by LinkedIn’s algorithms (i.e., they’re given more weight than other sections). Recruiters focus their search here, so give them reasons to keep eyeballs on your story.

  • Headline: You have 220 characters to play with. Are you updating the most visible part of your profile? A year ago, you may have been a lead generator, but now you’ve progressed to strategic marketer. Out with the old and in with the new. Swap out those descriptors to reflect your current focus.
  • Job Title: There are 100 characters available. Keep your formal title, but expand it by adding alternate titles and keyword-rich and branding taglines.
    • Here’s an example: Formal (Current) Title: VP Special Assets. Change to: VP Special Assets Officer > Loan Officer > Commercial Real Estate > $50M Portfolio.
  • Skills: Your top three are visible and should reflect the most marketable ones. Review the balance of skills and reorder as needed. Eliminate outdated skills and add new ones acquired. Use the specific skills LinkedIn offers, don’t create your own. Add greater visibility to skills by adding a recommended five to 10 skills to applicable sections of your profile.

3. Cultivate and Nurture Your Professional Community

The single most powerful asset to land a job is your social capital. According to Zippia, “85% of all jobs are filled through networking.” Why do people acknowledge the value of networking, yet avoid it until the eleventh hour?

Don’t repeat that mistake. Make a simple time investment when you don’t need a job. Keep your online and offline relationships going with simple gestures. Message people on LinkedIn with a personal note acknowledging birthdays and work anniversaries, and comment on and share their posts. If you have a close connection, pick up the phone and call them periodically. They will be interested in you if you are genuinely interested in them.

4. Explore Career Options Now

If you are considering a pivot, but you’re unsure of exactly where you’re headed, start looking at options while you have a job. Here are ways to research the possibilities and start the self-discovery process.

5. Develop Research Skills

The more you know about people, available opportunities, and organizations, the better your ability to make informed choices. Where do you start?

Follow targeted companies on LinkedIn and Twitter. Educate yourself on their vision, mission, organizational changes, competition, etc.

The actions you take on LinkedIn (posting, following, and commenting) are captured by AI and tell a story to recruiters and employers about your affinities and level of engagement. Companies prefer to pursue candidates who engage with their brand online, so get active.

LinkedIn is a search engine, so get the motor running by conducting a Boolean search to find jobs. Recruiters use this method in talent searches, with a string of “operators” using “quote marks,” (parentheses), as well as AND + OR + NOT + KEYWORDS.

Here is a super simple example of how to find jobs matching your criteria with titles, location, and preferred sector.

Go to the search bar, enter (“Relationship Manager” OR “Client Success Manager”) AND Private Banks AND New York, New York. Select the “Jobs” dropdown tab. Jobs matching those criteria will appear. Click on job alerts for future opportunities matching those criteria.

The Bottom Line

Don’t wait until you’re out of a job or desperate to get out of a job to acquire and practice job search skills. Prioritize job search skills the way you value job skills, and you’ll be market-ready for your next career move.


Barbara SchultzAbout the author…

Barbara Schultz is the founder of The Career Stager and a mid-career job search specialist. She is a Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW) and a Nationally Certified Online Profile Expert (NCOPE) through the National Resume Writer’s Association. Barbara offers career counseling and conducts workshops and webinars on every aspect of the search. Connect with Barbara via her website at Career-Stager.com or on LinkedIn.

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How to Answer “Why Are You a Great Match for This Role?” https://www.job-hunt.org/how-to-answer-why-are-you-a-great-match-for-this-role/ Mon, 06 Mar 2023 12:56:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27326 This question gives you a great chance to show off your potential. Here's how to approach this question in an interview, plus example answers.

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The hiring manager has your resume in front of them. They called you in for an interview, so it seems like they should already know how your skill set matches the position.

But hiring managers like to ask open-ended interview questions like this to get a better feel for your perspective on the job and the company. Sure, they can see your degree or your last job, but that doesn’t tell the full story of how you’ve applied those skills or your deeper understanding of the industry.

Additionally, the interviewer will be able to use your response to gauge your level of enthusiasm for the job and the company as a whole. Generic, memorized responses that you practiced for each of your interviews is going to be a red flag that you’re not fully committed.

Why You Should Love This Question

At first, open-ended questions can seem the most daunting. In reality, however, you should cross your fingers and hope that they are the main format throughout the interview. This question in particular gives you the chance to really sell yourself and your qualifications for the job.

Realistically, if you flip that question and consider why this job is the perfect match for you, you’ll be able to brainstorm an answer that shows how you and this position were custom-made for each other.

Perhaps it’s the ideal next step in your career path, or you’ve recently gained the needed certifications and now you’re qualified. When you reframe that in the context of your skills and experience being the ideal solution for their needs, you’ll be able to articulate an answer that makes you a memorable candidate.

How to Craft the Best Answer

Think of this question as an opportunity to give an elevator pitch of your professional life and how it has all led you to this precise moment.

Start With Excellent Research

As with any open-ended questions you’re preparing for, your success is going to be dependent on the quality of your research. You should study the job posting, research the company’s mission and goals, devote time to exploring their social media, and most importantly, read between the lines to try and determine what the company’s priorities are.

Your answer should demonstrate that you understand not only what they are looking for in a candidate but also what makes the company unique and desirable as an employer.

Start by mentioning the specific job title and then explain how your skills, experience, and interests all align with what the company is searching for.

Add in Some Confidence and Personality

This is also a prime opportunity to mention any unique qualifications or skills that might make you stand out from other candidates. Are you bilingual? Do you have an advanced degree in a relevant field? Any awards or recognition you’ve received throughout your career can be brought up here as well.

The goal is to let your personality shine through while offering tangible experiences that make you a great fit. Examine what in your background is a match for the desired skill set, and then consider a specific example that can bring that to life.

For example, suppose you’re interviewing for a sales role. Your response might include that you consistently beat your sales targets by 15% each month.

Be Concise

While you shouldn’t be afraid to advocate for yourself, you also want to demonstrate your ability to communicate professionally and concisely. Instead of going over every way you’re a match for the role, choose the most impactful two or three skills.

If you can sum up your answer in one minute or less, that’s ideal. This question is often used toward the end of the interview, so circle back to any details they’ve given about the position that you might include.

Think Outside of the Box

In some cases, you might be interviewing for a role that’s a little out of your comfort zone. In these scenarios, it’s okay to get creative with your answer and think outside the box.

Even if you don’t have direct experience in the field, focus on any related skills or experiences that would make you successful. For example, if you’re interviewing for a position in event planning but have no previous experience, you could highlight your organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.

The key is to stay positive and upbeat while showing that you’re confident in your abilities. Remember, the goal is to demonstrate why you’re the best candidate for the job, not just why you want it.

Avoid Negative Comparisons

Even though you’ve been asked why you’re the best candidate, you should focus on your skills, rather than comparing yourself to other candidates.

Without knowing the other applicants and what they have to offer, if you use comparisons to make yourself sound like the better fit, you’re likely to sound arrogant. Keep your answer targeted on “I” responses, focusing on your own unique skills and history.

Practice Makes Perfect

Whether it’s this question or any other, practicing before your interview is essential. Not only can it help you notice any awkward pauses or where your answer doesn’t flow, but it will also give you a chance to ensure that you’ve crafted the most persuasive answer.

One of the best ways to practice is with a friend, family member, or professional career coach. A career coach can go over an entire mock interview with you and offer feedback about adjustments you could make.

Sample Answer for “Why Are You a Great Match for This Role?”

If you put all this together, it might sound something like this answer for an event coordinator role.

I’m an excellent match for your event coordinator role because I have three years of experience coordinating events and am fluent in Spanish. I’ve followed your social media for a while and noticed that you have quite a few international clients, so I’m confident my language skills will help me in this role.

Not only that, but in my previous role, I was responsible for managing and organizing all aspects of events from start to finish. This included everything from managing vendors to handling on-site logistics on the day of the event. My managers have consistently expressed appreciation for my attention to detail and organizational skills. I’m delighted to use those skills for the annual underserved youth events that your company organizes, which is a cause I’m passionate about.

Becoming the Most Memorable Job Candidate

If you truly believe that this is an excellent job for you and your career has been leading you to this point, then with some brainstorming, research, and practice, you’ll be able to confidently answer why you’re the best match for the role.

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How to Quit a Job You Just Started https://www.job-hunt.org/how-to-quit-a-job-you-just-started/ Mon, 20 Feb 2023 08:33:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27319 Sometimes a new job isn't what you expected or just isn't the right fit. Here's why leaving can be the right move and how to resign professionally.

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You were so excited to start your new job—only now you’re discovering that it’s really not a great fit for you. You might be eyeing the door but wondering how to quit your new job without permanently damaging your career prospects.

After all, job-hopping is generally frowned upon by employers. They might hesitate to invest in someone with a track record of leaving as soon as another opportunity comes along. But the reality is that one job doesn’t make an entire history, and leaving a job that’s a poor fit might be the best thing you can do for your career in the long run.

If you find yourself in a new role that isn’t going to pan out, use the following tips to create your exit strategy.

Validate Your Reasons for Quitting

Maybe the role isn’t what you expected, or the company culture is toxic. Perhaps you’re just not cut out for that line of work. Whatever your reasons, it’s essential to make sure it’s not a temporary situation that you could work through.

If you’re unsure about whether or not your reasons are valid, ask yourself these questions:

  • Am I in danger or feeling unsafe in any way?
  • Am I being asked to do things that are illegal or unethical?
  • Does this job go against my values or beliefs?
  • Do I feel over my head and not qualified for this job?
  • Is the work environment so toxic that it’s negatively impacting my mental health?
  • Will I be miserable doing this in another five years?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, it’s time to start looking for a new job. And if the job is causing you to feel unsafe or negatively impacting your health, you might need to leave before you have another job lined up.

When the Role Is Overwhelming (or Underwhelming)

On the other hand, if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, or you’re not sure you’re cut out for the work, maybe give it some more time. You may need to adjust to the new role and get more comfortable with the team and responsibilities.

Maybe it’s the opposite issue. Did the job description portray the role as an opportunity to gain many skills you need for your career growth, and that doesn’t seem to be the case? If so, try and do a little reconnaissance and find out if perhaps you’re still in the foundational stage and those opportunities might still come down the road.

Either way, consider sitting down with your manager to discuss your concerns. Do your best to be professional and pragmatic. Leave your frustrations and emotions at the door and approach the conversation from a problem-solving perspective.

Realistically, it takes a lot of time and money to hire a new employee, so your manager likely wants you to succeed as well.

When You’ve Gotten a Better Job Offer

What do you do when an unexpected job opportunity pops up? If it’s your dream job or has fantastic potential for your career, then realistically, it’s probably best for your career if you take it.

If you haven’t made a history of job-hopping, one chance for an excellent role won’t demolish your career history, but you should still be professional with your exit strategy.

When You’re Making a Career Change

There might come a time when you change jobs only to discover that it wasn’t the job that was a poor fit, but the entire industry isn’t where you’re thriving.

If you’re considering a career change—from marketing to being a teacher, for example—there’s no shame in starting over.

It’s all about how you present your job history and explain your decision during interviews. As long as you can validate your reasons for wanting to make a change and demonstrate that you’re committed to the new field, it’s unlikely that you’ll suffer significant career setbacks.

Create an Exit Strategy

If you’re leaving for any reason other than your safety, decide how and when you will leave.

Develop a Time Frame

If you’re able, start job searching while keeping your job. It might seem obvious, but do your best to keep your job search private. Avoid talking about it with your coworkers, and be strategic about how and where you post it online.

When you’re relatively new in a role, it’s unlikely that your current manager will continue investing in your training if they discover that you’re job searching. Discretion is your best ally in maintaining your income until you have a new job lined up.

Be Professional in Your Departure

Even if you didn’t enjoy your time at the company, it’s essential to be professional when departing. You never know who else in the industry your manager and teammates know. Being unprofessional can cause unforeseen complications that aren’t worth the negative career fallout.

When you do give notice, hand in your resignation letter in person—rather than sending an email, if possible—and ensure that you’re giving the information to your boss first. You don’t want them to hear it from someone else in the break room.

Be prepared for their disappointment (and possibly frustration) if you’re a recent hire. Remaining calm and professional can help keep the conversation on track.

Explore Any Necessary Damage Control

Once you’ve left, keep an eye out for any possible networking or overall career fallout that might result. This shouldn’t be an issue if you leave your job amicably and on good terms.

In some cases, it might make sense to do a bit of personal branding damage control by collecting positive testimonials on LinkedIn, gathering glowing reviews from previous managers, and ensuring that your social media presence is positive and polished.

Negative career fallout is more common when you’ve been let go from a position, so even if you quit on short tenure, there’s usually less risk involved.

When You’re Leaving a New Job

When you start a new job full of hope only to discover that it’s not a dream fit, it can be daunting to get back out there and start searching again. If there’s no way to thrive in your current role, take the time to ensure that your next role will be an excellent fit and then make a move, rather than resign yourself to a daily struggle.

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How to Answer “Why Do You Want to Be a Manager?” https://www.job-hunt.org/how-to-answer-why-do-you-want-to-be-a-manager/ Mon, 06 Feb 2023 08:13:00 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27331 Interviewers will look for signs of strong leadership and interpersonal skills. Here's how to approach this question, plus example answers.

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If you’re a few years into your career, there’s a good chance you will start considering a role with more responsibility, whether through a promotion or a new opportunity at the next level.

If you’re considering your first management position, one of the questions you’re likely to encounter during your interview is, “Why do you want to move into a management role?”

Don’t let the question throw you. With thoughtful preparation, you can easily articulate why you’re the perfect fit for the role.

Why Employers Ask This Question

One of the biggest challenges of moving into a management position is communicating your motivations. Hiring managers recognize that success in the role is less about your technical skills and ability to do the specific job and more about motivating and facilitating others to do the work.

Managers will seek evidence of your empathy and a genuine heart for leadership. To give an answer that impresses the employer, you need to shift your mindset away from your personal deliverables and instead showcase the desire to help others be as successful as possible.

How to Answer This Question

As with any other open-ended interview question, the key to successfully answering this question will come from company research. You’ll need to express how you’re the perfect fit for both the team and the position.

Understand the Needs of the Role

The best way to learn about a company’s needs is to devote time to becoming its biggest fan. Explore the company’s social media, and get very familiar with its organizational structure and products. Pay special attention to any new projects or negative reviews they’re getting.

After a solid overview, consider how the role you’re applying to fits into the company’s structure. Ask yourself the following questions:

  • What are some challenges that the team might face?
  • How can I help the team and the company succeed?
  • What would a reasonable next step for the team be?
  • How will I help team members develop skills to achieve those goals?
  • What part would the team play in meeting the company’s deliverables?

Once you’ve developed a well-rounded view of the role and how it fits into the company, you can start connecting the dots between your experience and the position.

Show How Your Skills Align With the Role

One of the ways that interviewing for your first management role differs from your previous interviews is that you need to move to a results-oriented mindset.

As a manager, you’ll be able to create an incredible impact on an entire team or department. Hiring managers are looking for you to have an awareness of that. But even more, they’re hoping to discover that you’re excited by the possibility of how you can create growth and meet standards for the team you’re seeking to lead.

So, avoid focusing on the technical skills that align with the role. When you bring them up, use them as an example of how you’ll build connections with your team, rather than utilize those skills yourself.

Craft Your Answer

Review your research on the company and the role, creating a list of your skills matching their needs. Then, brainstorm specific examples that bring those skills to life.

Avoid using vague action words, like “I’m great at motivating others.” Instead, you’ll want to craft a response that will paint a vivid picture for the interviewer.

For instance, you could say something like:

I enjoy finding creative ways to motivate everyone on the team to succeed. On my current team, we were struggling to meet our sales goals, so I created a bingo game to help everyone visualize our opportunities. We consistently beat our sales goals by breaking them into smaller, more attainable steps.

Sample Answers

Example Answer 1

I see the role of a manager as a guide and facilitator more than anything else. I’m excited about the opportunity because I know how a great manager has impacted my career. I’m looking forward to being a mentor and motivator for others. As a senior trainer for my team, I’ve been able to help over 35 team members be successful in their roles, and I’m excited to put those skills to work at an even higher level.

Why this works:

If you’ve done your research and discovered that the company sees their managers as less authoritarian and more in line with career coaches, this is a great answer. You’re clearly stating how you view the role, and you’re weaving in your experience with helping teammates find success.

Example Answer 2

I see the role of a manager as primarily focused on helping others achieve results. I’m excited about this role because it’s an opportunity to take my skills in sales and marketing and help sales partners develop those same skills. In my previous role, I increased sales by 25% in six months by working with my team to develop creative marketing strategies. I’m confident I can bring that same focus on team collaboration to this role and achieve the needed results.

Why this works:

This is an excellent answer for a role focused on results because it shows that you realize that your skills will directly impact the team’s overall goal. You back up your claims with data, which is always impressive to interviewers.

Shine During Your Interview

When one of your career goals is to move into a management role, the tone of your interview needs to straddle the line between how you’ll use your skills to help the team succeed and showing that you’re likable and relatable.

Do your research and ask thoughtful questions about the team and its goals. Doing so will help the hiring manager recognize the value you offer.

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How to Convey Your Unique Value to Employers https://www.job-hunt.org/manage-message-introverts/ Mon, 23 Jan 2023 12:14:00 +0000 https://jobhunt.fj-dev.com/manage-message-introverts/ Do you know what sets you apart from other job seekers? Here's how to define your unique value and impress employers with your potential.

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Do you know what sets you apart from other job seekers? Can you offer a confident answer if a hiring manager asks why they should hire you or what makes you the best candidate for the job?

If you’re unsure how to create an answer, it’ll be a challenge to genuinely communicate that to prospective employers. This is especially true if you are naturally more introverted and tend to be uncomfortable promoting yourself, downplaying your accomplishments and believing that your work speaks for itself.

Unfortunately, failing to communicate the value you bring to your employer will allow them to form their own opinions, which are often off the mark. So, how do you step out of your comfort zone and own your unique message?

One of the best ways to get more comfortable tooting your own horn is to take ownership of your unique value proposition (UVP).

Understanding Your Unique Value Proposition as a Job Seeker

Your unique value proposition is what makes you the best candidate for a particular role.

When employers are looking to fill a position, they want to know what you can bring to the table that other candidates can’t. Your unique value proposition is your chance to sell yourself and show why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

Creating Your Own Unique Value Proposition

When crafting your UVP, think about what you have to offer that no one else does.

What are your unique skills and experiences? What makes you passionate about the work you do? Answering these questions will help you hone in on what makes you the ideal candidate for the job you’re pursuing.

Examples of Unique Selling Points for Job Seekers

Remember, your UVP should be unique to you. But to get your creative juices flowing, consider any comments, awards, or recognition you’ve received throughout your career.

Perhaps you’ve received awards for streamlining operations or innovative cost reductions. Maybe you’ve been recognized by a previous employer for improving employee morale and boosting customer engagement. Whatever accolades you’ve received, use those as inspiration for explaining your value.

Using Your Unique Value Proposition in Your Job Search

Once you have a few ideas, you can start working them into your application materials.

Use Your Unique Value Proposition on Your Resume

Your resume is one of the first places employers will look to learn more about you, so ensure your unique value proposition is front and center. One way to do this is by fully utilizing the power of your resume summary. This brief statement outlines your qualifications and emphasizes why you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

If you have a lot of experience, you might want to focus on your accomplishments and the critical skills most relevant to the position. For example:

Accomplished sales professional with 10+ years of experience exceeding quotas and generating new business. Proven ability to establish relationships with clients and close deals.

If you don’t have as much experience, highlight what makes you stand out from other candidates. For example:

Recent graduate with a degree in marketing and experience managing social media accounts for small businesses and national nonprofit organizations. Skilled at creating content, analyzing data, and developing strategies to grow an audience.

In both cases, the unique value proposition is clear and concise, telling employers precisely what the job seeker can offer.

Use Your Unique Value Proposition in Your Cover Letter

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself and explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. And it’s often easier to write what makes you unique, so start here and share what the employer will gain if they hire you.

Use specific examples to support your claims and show employers what you could bring to the team. For example:

In the job posting, you noted that you’re looking for a candidate with experience in copywriting and social media. In my previous role as a marketing assistant, I was responsible for creating both digital and print content. I also managed the social media accounts for my company, which allowed me to increase our customer engagement by 18%.

As you can see, my skills and experiences perfectly align with what you’re looking for in a candidate. I would love to put my talents to work for your company and help contribute to your success.

Use Your Unique Value Proposition in Your Online Profiles

A healthy professional presence online is vital during your job search. Most employers will look you up online before deciding whether to interview you, so it’s critical to ensure your online profiles are up to date and professional.

Your unique value proposition can also come in handy here. Use your UVP to update your profile descriptions and create a tagline that sums up who you are and what you do. For example:

Marketing professional with 10 years of experience developing and executing campaigns that drive results. Skilled in copywriting, social media, and project management. Passionate about helping businesses achieve their goals.

This short description tells employers everything they need to know about you and what you can do for them. It’s the perfect way to make an excellent first impression and get them interested in learning more about you.

Sharing Your Unique Message

While it can be uncomfortable, it’s essential that you own your accomplishments and manage the message that your job search sends. Just remember, you’re helping the hiring manager understand why you’re the best fit for their needs. They won’t know unless you tell them.

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8 Ways to Stay Healthy at Work https://www.job-hunt.org/ways-stay-healthy-at-work/ Mon, 09 Jan 2023 23:57:47 +0000 https://www.job-hunt.org/?p=27638 Whether you work at home or in an office, these eight small changes to your routine can keep you healthy. How many are you already doing?

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Modern professionals are notoriously bad at balancing work and health. Whether you work remotely or have a traditional office role, there’s a good chance that your daily health habits could use a tune-up.

But rather than try and overhaul everything at once, consider where you can make the most effortless changes and begin there.

8 Ways to Stay Healthy at Work

For some people, staying healthy at work might mean swapping their afternoon coffee for a glass of water. For others, it might be investing in a standing desk or taking a conference call while going for a walk. And for others still, it might be eating healthy snacks or packing a nutritious lunch from home. No matter what, there are small changes that everyone can make to stay healthy at work.

1. Take a Break From Sitting

It’s easy to get stuck in a sedentary lifestyle, especially if your job is computer-based, but it’s essential to ensure that you get up and move around regularly.

Setting a timer to remind yourself every 30-40 minutes to stand up and stretch or take a quick walk down the hall and back will do wonders for your health and focus.

2. Prioritize Healthy Meals and Snacks

It can be tempting to indulge in unhealthy snacks, but it’s important to ensure you eat healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. Vending machines and fast food can be easy but damaging.

Planning and preparing healthy meals can help you stay on track. Consider starting out with some prepackaged nuts or veggies to make it easier to get in the habit of having whole foods during the day.

3. Connect With Others

Focusing on growing your career makes it easy to feel isolated from the rest of the world. Take time to connect with friends and family in person or online. Talking to others can help you feel more connected and less alone.

And if there is an existing health group at your work, joining can be a great way to stay motivated with healthy living habits while building a stronger professional network. If your workplace lacks such a group, consider talking to your employer about creating one.

4. Exercise Daily

We’ve all heard that exercise is vital for overall health and can help improve your mood and energy levels. But you don’t have to invest in a costly gym membership or sign up for a triathlon. Small changes can make a big impact, and exercising at work is more manageable than you’ve probably imagined.

At your desk, do a few stretches, or consider investing in an under-desk treadmill. If that’s not an option, schedule a walk at lunch and on breaks. The steps can add up quickly.

5. Stay Hydrated

It’s incredible how quickly you can dehydrate without even noticing the signals. Ensure that you’re drinking enough water throughout the day—consider keeping a water bottle near your desk so you can take sips regularly.

6. Build in Routine Breaks

Whether it’s for lunch or your days off each week, make breaks a part of your work routine. They give your mind a chance to rest and your body the opportunity to do something different than the repetitive motions your role calls for.

And don’t forget about longer breaks so that you can fully recharge. As a culture, Americans are notoriously horrible at taking vacations. However, a complete break from work is a very healthy decision. Not only can you de-stress, but you can also enjoy a bit of time to relax and refocus.

7. Focus on Sufficient Sleep

It can be tempting to burn the candle at both ends while balancing your career with personal commitments, but it’s essential to ensure you’re getting enough sleep. Sufficient rest can help you boost your immune system. As a bonus, you’ll be more productive during the day.

8. Don’t Neglect Your Mental Wellness

While focusing on your physical health is vital, don’t stop there. Take the extra steps to ensure that you’re maintaining your mental health as well.

Keep tabs on your stress levels; if you’re consistently feeling high anxiety levels, it’s time to take action. Perhaps you can take time throughout the day to practice some deep breathing activities or do some yoga on your lunch break.

And if you’re finding it difficult to cope with work-related stressors, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional who can offer support and guidance.

How Flexible Work Options Support Health

Another way to stay healthy at work is to take advantage of flexible work policies if they are available. Flexible work policies can take many forms, but all aim to give employees more control over their time. This could mean working from home one or two days per week, starting and ending the work day early or late, or taking longer breaks.

When employees have more control over their time, they can better manage their work-life blend, which is beneficial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Consider just a few of the health perks that flexible workers enjoy:

  • Reduced stress
  • Avoiding office germs
  • Getting more sleep
  • Shorter (and fewer) illnesses
  • Increased happiness
  • More opportunities for fitness
  • More energy

Thrive With a Healthier Work-Life Balance

Both employers and employees experience the benefits of flexible work policies. By having more time and less stress, employees can get more sleep, have more time to enjoy life, and can be healthier at work and at home. All of these benefits create a happier and more productive team.

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