Category Archives: Career Search

8 Ways to challenge yourself if you really want a job in 2017

In my workshops, I often ask the participants to deliver their elevator pitches unrehearsed. Or I’ll ask them to answer interview questions when they least expect it. Or I’ll ask them to talk about their accomplishments. In other words, I challenge them.

The job search is stressful as it is. I totally get this. But I also get that the more you challenge yourself in your job search, the easier it will become and the better you’ll do. Think of it as akin to pushing yourself to run that extra mile when you want to stop. You’ll be better for it in the end.

Here are some ways you can challenge yourself and improve your job search skills:

1. Allow Yourself to Be Put on the Spot

When someone like me asks you to deliver your elevator pitch, don’t bow out and say you’re not prepared. So what if you feel uneasy in front of the other job seekers? So what if you don’t do well at first? This is an opportunity to practice, challenge yourself.

When you’re asked to describe your biggest challenge, don’t plead the fifth. That won’t fly in an interview. You can’t say, “I’m not prepared for this question. Next.”

So what if you don’t get it right on your first try? Accept the challenge.

2. Tell People You’re Out of Work

To most people this seems like a no-brainer, but you might be surprised how embarrassed some people are about losing their jobs. They don’t realize it’s a natural part of life, especially in a bad job market.

I encourage job seekers to let as many people as possible know they’re looking for a job, even if it means they’ll be embarrassed. Take the challenge of contacting many people in person to let them know you’re in transition. In other words, network within your community.

3. Attend Organized Networking Events

You may have heard that no one likes networking events. Don’t listen to the naysayers. You’ll be passing up a great opportunity. Networking events offer the opportunity to engage in conversation with other job seekers who could provide sage advice or possible leads.

I know networking events can be uncomfortable, but I challenge myself to attend them simply to sharpen my skills. I suggest you do the same. Challenge yourself to attend at least two networking events a week.

4. Have Others Read Your Résumé

You may think you’ve written a great résumé and cover letter, but other people may not agree—like the time my wife told me she thought my résumé was “verbose.” I’m not sure if she used that word exactly, but I got the picture that someone would think it laborious to read.

Asking my wife to read my résumé took courage and prompted me to edit it. Challenge yourself to have someone else read your résumé, and then take what they say as constructive criticism.

Read my very popular post on avoiding getting too much input on your résumé.

5. Ask for a Mock Interview

This may be the closest you’ll get to an actual interview. Mock interviews are a valuable teaching tool, and any organization that offers them is providing a great service. But mock interviews don’t have to be conducted by a professional job coach or career advisor; a friend of yours can perform the function just as well.

When I challenge job seekers to participate in mock interviews, many pass on the opportunity. Others, though, see a mock interview as a valuable tool that will help them better understand how they answer questions, their body language, and their facial expressions. You should challenge yourself to participate in a mock interview.

6. Reach Out to Your LinkedIn Connections

Introverts may feel the severity of this challenge more than their extravert counterparts. However, your connections are not bona fide connections until you reach out to them in a personal way, as in a phone call or coffee meeting.

Some of my LinkedIn connections I’ve reached out to have proven to be great networking partners, while others turned out to have little in common with me. The point is that as challenging as this is, it’s well worth the effort. You could develop real relationships that you never would have developed otherwise.

7. Get Off the Internet

Not completely, but use it seldom and in different ways. Instead of defaulting to your comfort zone of job boards, use LinkedIn to find relevant connections through the “Companies” feature. Then connect with these people and follow my suggestion above.

Also visit your target companies’ websites to see how they’re doing in terms of growth. Contact the companies that are doing well with a job-search networking email to ask for informational meetings (or networking meetings). This takes courage, but it will yield better results than using job boards alone.

8. Participate in Informational Meetings

Informational meetings have been critical to many job seekers’ successes, but landing an informational meeting isn’t easy. Many of the people you’d want to meet with are very busy, with little time to spare. You may have to elicit help from one of your LinkedIn or personal connections in order to secure an informational meeting.

When you attend an informational meeting, remember that you’re the one asking the questions about a position and the company—so ask intelligent ones. You’re not there to beg for a job; you’re there to gather information and get advice.

Reader, taking on the challenges outlined above—having people read your resume, asking for mock interviews, etc.—are necessary if you want to land the desired interview. The interview is perhaps the biggest challenge of all when it comes to the job search, but if you prepare yourself by facing these smaller challenges first, I have no doubt you’ll land the job.

I would love to hear about your success story. Please leave a comment below!

This post originally appeared in recruiter.com.

Photo, Flickr, ANKESH KATOCH

Photo, Flickr, jirifx

LinkedIn is NOT a dating site: 3 types of inappropriate daters*.

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In my LinkedIn Unleashed workshop I make an off-handed comment that LinkedIn is NOT a dating site. I get chuckles from the attendees, but I never seriously consider that some people try to use LinkedIn as a dating site, until recently.

A female job seeker told me she was hesitant to network because it involves reaching out to strangers. I told her her reluctance was not uncommon, but then she went on to tell me about a LinkedIn member who asked her out on a date.

Shocked, I asked her to repeat her claim. Not just once, she told me, but by numerous people. How, I wondered out loud, can men take advantage of people who are unemployed and vulnerable? The unemployed are looking for a job, not a date.

I’ve read claims from other women on LinkedIn who were hit on or received sexist remarks. One person went as far as to call out a person on a Facebook group, The Un*Professional LinkedIn Network, where shameless accusations were common.

The point here is that LinkedIn is intended for professional networking, which doesn’t include using it to ask for dates. Some people, however, haven’t gotten the message.

I classify the LinkedIn daters in three groups.

1. The oblivious. Not everyone knows better. They are oblivious. They don’t know they’re crossing the line. Their initial intention is to network professionally, but their overtures become too personal.

Their purpose to connect online and meet a woman for coffee may be for professional reasons at first, but they eventually develop a personal interest that isn’t returned. Nonetheless, their overtures persist, making it uncomfortable for the recipient of their advances.

2. The stalker is the next level of LinkedIn dater. They’re showing up on a person’s profile view on a daily basis. They really don’t have anything in common with the person, yet they’re ever present.

I’ve heard from some LinkedIn users who think that anyone who looks at their profile is a stalker. This is not what I’m talking about. Imagine someone looking at your profile everyday, without contacting you to provide an explanation. Creepy.

3. The level 3 type. Their advances are outright obvious and persistent, and will prompt the recipient to block this person. My client told me the man she spoke of in no uncertain terms asked if she’d like to meet for drinks.

As a job seeker, she wanted nothing more than to connect with people—men or women—who could be of mutual assistance, not people who wanted to approach her, based on her profile photo. This is what I find disturbing, namely that job seekers’ most important objective is to land a job, not be hit on.

A reader commented that “it is such a shame that some people do use their job titles and take advantage of vulnerability of those in job transition.” I agree that to use one’s power to hire, or introduce someone who has the power, is unethical. This is the greatest injustice of all.

I’m curious to hear of anyone who has met someone on LinkedIn, which developed into a romantic relationship. Please share your story if this happened to you.

*Perhaps “stalker” or even “predators” are better word for these types of people.

Photo: Flickr, Ashley Bishop

7 steps to successful salary negotiations

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The interview went extremely well. So well, in fact, that the hiring manager has offered you the position and then says, “What I need to know now is what is your salary requirement?”

Wow, you think. You were fairly sure you’d be offered the job, and that’s a good thing. However, you aren’t ready to have the salary conversation just yet. But the interviewer is looking at you with expectation. Surely you have a salary in mind.

All too often, people freeze when asked about salary expectations, or they quickly throw out a figure. This can lead to candidates asking for too much and pricing themselves out of consideration or asking for too little and settling for an unsatisfactory salarie.

If you want to ensure you get a fair salary and benefits package, follow these steps:

1. Start off on the right note

You probably think your résumé is the first contact you have with an employer, and that is usually the case. You submit a strong résumé that shows the value you’ll bring to the employer. It is loaded with relevant accomplish statements and tailored to that particular job.

But here’s a better first-contact scenario: You find a contact within the company who can lead you to a decision-maker. You and the decision-maker have a few very productive conversations during which you’re able to sell yourself face to face. Eventually, a position becomes available. By then, you are already considered a shoo-in for the role.

2. Do your homework

First, you must determine the salary you’re able to live on. Next, you determine what you’d consider your “dream salary.” For example, maybe you can live on $80,000, but you’d be ecstatic with $90,000.

It is important to be realistic about your value in the labor market. There are tools out there that can help you with this, such as Salary.com.

The second piece of your homework requires determining the employer’s budget, or what it can pay. Networking with people within the company will play a huge part in understanding what the employer can pay. However, if you can’t do this, Glassdoor can be of some assistance.

3. Sell yourself during the interview

So you’ve set the stage by networking and having a series of meetings with the hiring decision-maker, or you’ve submitted a strong, tailored resume. Congratulations – you landed an interview! It doesn’t end here, though.

You will continue to sell your value throughout the interview process. Your job of selling yourself will be easier if you understand the employer’s pain points. Are there lagging sales? Inefficient processes? Poor communication within departments? Enormous waste? Hint: during the first stage of the process, you should ask the right questions to determine their pain point.

Loaded with this information, address these pain points whenever you can during the interview, thereby showing you understand the needs of the employer and that you can meet them.

4. Ask for the employer’s range

Now that you’ve determined your needs and the employer’s budget, you are at a stronger vantage point for the salary negotiation. But before you engage in a negotiation, it’s important to realize two things: one, employers expect you to negotiate; and two, you are the one they want – and for this reason, you have more leverage.

The first step in responding to the employer’s query regarding your salary expectations is to ask for the employer’s range. Employers will generally disclose their ranges, but keep in mind that the numbers they offer are usually within their first or second quartiles.

For example, if the employer provides a range of $80,000 to $90,000, chances are the real range is $80,000 to $100,000. Based on your research of the company, the employer’s range should be approximately the range you expected.

Your next step is to offer a range of your own. Your range should exceed the range given by the employer. You might give $92,500 to $94,500, for example. The lower figure would be your anchor. An anchor is a number that focuses the other negotiator’s attention and expectations, so make sure it’s a salary you’d be happy with.

Note: Some active job seekers might feel uncomfortable going beyond the employer’s high end, for fear of not getting the job. I still advise stating a range beginning within their range and ending beyond their highest figure. An example might be $88,000 to $92,000.

5. Back up your expectations

You aren’t justified in asking for a salary higher than the employer’s offer unless you back your request up with facts and figures. Focus on the pain points and illustrate how you can alleviate them.

You may reply with, “First, I’d like to tell you that this job interests me very much. I will be committed to it and the company, if we can be closer to the $92,500 to $94,500 range. I know your sales department needs someone to infuse motivation into it. I want to remind you that I was able to increase sales by at least 85 percent at my last three companies. Further, I will bring in four times the salary you’re offering. I’ve also contributed to my previous positions by presenting at the AA-ISP’s Inside Sales conference. I can bring more visibility to the company. Are we on the same page?”

6. Remember the Benefits Package

You may come to a standstill during salary negotiations. When this happens, the best recourse is to divert to benefits. Many people don’t realize that benefits, such as vacation, flex time, and stock options, can be negotiated. Remember, it’s not all about salary.

For example, “I understand there are budget constraints, so I’d like to talk about vacation time. Where I last worked, I accumulated five weeks of vacation. You’re offering two weeks. If we could agree on four and a half weeks of vacation, I’d be happy accepting your offer.”

7. Ask for time to consider the offer

Congratulations, you negotiated the salary you wanted, but they weren’t as generous with the vacation you wanted. Tell the employer you’re happy that you’ve come to a satisfactory figure, but would like some time to think or talk with your spouse about the whole package. Assure them that you’ll call them within 24 hours.

Perhaps the employer wouldn’t budge on the salary but can offer you the additional two and a half weeks of vacation you asked for. Again, ask for time to think about the whole package.

This is normal procedure with most job offers. Employers want you to be certain that you’ll take the job. But there are two reasons why you ask for time. First, this is a huge step; you want to make sure you’re making the right decision. Second, this will give the employer time to reconsider (it worked for me).

When you call the employer take the time to ask them how they came to their decision and ask if you can revisit the salary or benefits. Hopefully they’ll be amenable to your request, but if not, give them your answer.

Negotiating salary can be stressful. It’s important that you view it as a business transaction, not a confrontation. Always keep a level head and try to smile during the process. And if one company can’t meet you where you want to be, remember that there will be other offers from employers who will be able to accommodate your needs.

Photo, Flickr, bm_adverts

15 photos that will sink your LinkedIn profile

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By now it’s a given that you have a photo on your LinkedIn profile. Without one, you’re as good as an outcast. However, the photos I’ve been seeing lately raise the question, “What are people trying to convey with their photof?” Are they hitting the mark?

What do I mean by this? Take the photo of the woman above. This is not hitting the mark unless she’s trying to appear otherworldly. Her photo does nothing but make me wish I never come in contact with her.

On the other hand, there are photos that are well done and prompt me to click “Like” or, in a few cases, write a comment complimenting the person’s photo for its quality. For example, a photo I show in my LinkedIn workshop prortays professionalism because it is a quality photo and the subject appears friendly, welcoming, and intelligent.

Now before you call me a photo snob, consider how important your photo is and why you shouldn’t slap just any one on your profile.

Photos are important. Our photo makes us memorable and trustworthy. Some, including me, won’t open a profile unless the person is known. According to some, profiles that have a photo are 14 times more likely to be opened than those that don’t.

Photos are part of your branding. The first thing people see on your profile is your photo, so make it count. They can say something positive about your personality; for example, you are caring, serious, creative, authoritative, outgoing and friendly, and so on. I demonstrate photos in my Advanced LinkedIn workshop. One of them is of a New York City photograper. Click here to see how he effective brands himself.

Quality is also important. My close connection, and published photographer, David Machowski says this about a quality photo: “A good headshot is a photograph of one’s face that is first and foremost flattering. That fact is open to interpretation; but here is where many make the mistake of having their shot with too much detail, too far away, too close, out of focus, eyes not sharp and in focus, too much depth of field (ideally the eyes should be the sharpest point of the photograph).” He could go on forever.

The type of photo you choose is your choice. No one insists that you dress in your best suit and tie, or for you women a suit with a brilliant blouse and conservative jewelry; although that would be nice. You may want to go the route of business casual. A black and white photo can look very creative or…hide pink hair.

Photos that are inappropriate? This is really the gist of the issue I have with the onslaught of photos appearing on my LinkedIn homepage. Many of the photos are taken in haste, without forethought and planning, and negatively impact the subject. Some are just plain inappropriate, such as:

The plain ole poor quality, like a blurry photo that appears to be taken with a Polaroid.
The under water effect–this person looks like she’s literally under water.
The selfie taken with a cell phone gives the amusement park mirror effect.
The action shot of someone in his office, playing touch football, or climbing rocks, etc.
The false representation photo of a person 10 years earlier should be a crime.
The half smile or downright frown photo. Hey, people are drawn to happy people.
The purple face or red-eye photo. I’ve seen this and thought there’s no way a person’s face can be purple like this.
The “I’m taken off guard” photo with cinder block background. This does wonders…for a prison shot.
The dating scene photo is one of my favorites. Not. Beautiful women and handsome men are great for dating sites, not LinkedIn.
The “Look, I’m working” photo with the office wall in the background looks like the person is trying too hard.
The bad-ass look, shades and all. This I’ve seen and wondered if the guy was in a gang.
The family portrait. Whose profile is it anyways, yours or your wife and children?
The photo with the person riding his Harley.
The photo of an orangutan. Let’s be serious.
The company logo. There’s a LinkedIn company page for that.

Additional photos suggested by LinkedIn members.

From Rich Grant. The cropped photo. “What’s that random hand on your shoulder?”

I realize LinkedIn is trying to stress the importance of having a photo on your profile, but the annoying photo show is not accomplishing its intention. Or perhaps the people who are declaring their new photo are the ones who are not hitting the mark. Before you post your new photo, make sure it represents you as a professional networker, not a Facebook friend.

Photo, Flickr, Irene Ferrari

Experience with a disability is sometimes the best experience

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Talking about real-life, hands-on experience. I ran across a job listing on Indeed.com that called for someone who has “Lived experience with mental health issues and treatment.” An organization in eastern Massachusetts says this experience is strongly preferred. For the first time, I am impressed with an organization’s willingness to openly hire a person with a disability—in fact, require it.

I’m not ignorant to the fact that organizations employ people with disabilities; I just haven’t seen a job ad that highly suggests that candidates must have a disability.

Before I became a workshop facilitator at an urban career center, I was its Disability Program Coordinator where I helped people with disabilities re-enter the labor market. So I’m familiar with the struggles this population faces in getting past the stereotypes of being disabled, physically, mentally, or both.

Never did I see an organization actively seek people with mental illnesses. Hell, it was hard identifying those organizations who would entertain the idea. This is the main reason why I found job development so frustrating; too hard getting past the gatekeepers who showed their disapproval like a billboard when you asked if they needed someone with qualifications…who happened to have a disability.

It is a known fact that many substance abuse counselors are in recovery themselves. This gives them a better idea of what people with substance abuse issues are enduring and allows them to speak about recovery more accurately.

Sometimes the best cops are the ones who grew up “on the streets,” because they know the environment and behavior of the criminals they’re trying to apprehend. Real-life experience is the best teacher in my mind.

So I was encouraged to see this ad that calls for a person with real-life experience to assist a defined population. Doesn’t it make sense that the people who understand others with disabilities, substance abuse, and criminal backgrounds help or otherwise interact with them?

More to the point, this organization opens up opportunities for people who may be victimized by discrimination because of their disability. Instead they welcome candidates to share their knowledge and expertise with the less fortunate.

I recall one assistant director of a Department of Mental Health clubhouse proudly exclaim that he suffered from bi-polar disorder. He happened to be a great advocate of people with mental illness. Incidentally, he became a director of another DMH clubhouse.

Should employers who serves those with mental illness be the only ones to hire people with this type of real-life experience? Hell no. A brilliant psychologist who worked for the Department of Mental Health told me something I’ll never forget, which was that the best medicine for someone suffering from mental illness is work.

Photo: Flickr, Ryan Baker

Default invites from LinkedIn members stink: 6 approaches to sending an invite

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I estimate that I ignore 90% of invites from LinkedIn members, simply because they don’t include a personalized note. In fact, if I accepted all invites I’d probably have 10,000 connections in my LinkedIn network. This is not to brag; I’m just saying.

Why am I so adamant about people taking the time to personalize their invites? Short and simple, default invites stink.

The default invite on LinkedIn is: I’d like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn*. While it clearly states a hopeful networker’s intent, I need more. Something that tells me why we should connect.

Sending the default invite is akin to going up to someone at a networking event and saying, “Hi. What can you do for me?” It’s insincere and sends the message, “I’m inviting you to be in my network, but I could care less if you join.” Is this the type of message you want to send to a potential networker?

I believe there are three reasons why LinkedIn members don’t personalize their invites.

One, they just don’t get it. Or they haven’t been educated. I can only spread the word to the people who attend my LinkedIn workshops or read my posts. Even then they don’t get it. Some workshop attendees will invite me from their phones while I’m leading the workshop…void of a personalized note.

Two, they’re using their phone to connect with others on LinkedIn. Although there is a way to send a personalized invite from your phone, most people don’t know how to do it. The process is very simple**, so there’s no excuse.

To the people who invite me to their network from their phone, I tell them to wait until they’re at a computer so they can send a personalized note. What’s the hurry? I’m not going away.

Three, they’re plain lazy. I think this is really the heart of the matter, and I hesitate to say it, especially out loud; but in essence this is what it comes down to. To me, a default invitation is a statement of want without a sign of reciprocation. And this defies the true definition of networking.

I and others, I’m sure, are more likely to accept an invite if a thoughtful note is attached to it. So what should you write if you want someone to join your network?

1. You might have something in common with whom you’re trying to connect. “Hi Susan, I’ve been following your updates and feel that we have a great deal in common. Would you accept an invitation to be in my LinkedIn network?”

2. Maybe you’re the bold type. “Hey, Bob. You and I are in career development. Ain’t that cool? Let’s link up!” I like this confidence.

3. You might want to take the calculated approach. “After reviewing your profile, I’m impressed with its quality and your diverse interests.” A little flattery never hurts.

4. Do you need assistance? I received an invite with the following message: “Please have a look at my profile and tell me what you think. I’ve been on LinkedIn since before it was, well, LinkedIn!” I looked at his profile and was impressed. I gladly accepted his invite.

5. Inviting someone to be part of your LinkedIn network is a perfect way to follow up with that person after a face-to-face meeting. “Sam, it was great meeting with you at the Friends of Kevin networking event. I looked you up on LinkedIn and thought we could stay in touch.”

6. Boost the person’s ego. “Bob, I read one of your posts and thought it was spot on. I’d like to connect with you.” Or “Jason, I saw you speak at the Tsongas Arena and what you said really resonated with me. I’d like to follow up with you.”

These are some suggestions that would entice someone like myself to accept an invite. When I’m sent an invite, I only request a personalized note—it’s not that hard, really. So rather than just hitting the Send Invitation button, take a few seconds to compose something from the heart.

*A very simple solution is eliminating the default message altogether, thereby requiring someone to write a personalized note. LinkedIn suggests, “Include a personal note,” but this doesn’t seem to work for some.

**To send an invite from your phone, go to the profile, click the three vertical dots for androids or horizontal dots for iPhones, choose “Personalize invite,” write one and hit send.

Photo: Flickr, ruijiaoli

Photo: Flickr, Retroeric

4 elements of the unique job seekers’ holiday networking newsletter

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And why it’s important to send one.

Like me, you may receive holiday newsletters from friends and relatives who you see infrequently. You may look forward to receiving these yearly letters or dread them because they carry on for pages about personal information best saved for a therapist.

For job seekers these newsletters can serve as a great way to network if written properly. You’re sending these holiday networking newsletters to people who care about your welfare and would like to help in any way they could.

Maybe your uncle Jake once worked at Raytheon and still has connections there, past or present; or your former roommate from college is doing well for himself in marketing in NYC. Your brother is active on LinkedIn and probably has connections living in your area. He’ll sing your praises for sure. The list of possibilities are great.

What to include in your personal holiday newsletter. Keep in mind that you’re not contacting employers or fellow job seeking networkers who understand the lingo and nuances of networking for work. (These networking letters speak a different language and are targeted to a specific audience.)

You’re reaching out to friends and relatives who know little to nothing about your situation or experience and goals, and who probably haven’t heard from you in awhile. Thus, the content should be light and unobtrusive.

The Opening

First wish your recipients a happy holiday. You’ll start light and stay light during the entire letter. This is, after all, the holidays.

“Hello loved ones. It’s been a busy year for the Jones, and we have a lot to tell you. First let me start be telling you that we have a new puppy; I think that sums up ‘busy.’ Ellen has me on house training duties, and for the most part I’m doing all right. I hope you get to see our puppy, who we’ve called “Messi.”

Body of Newsletter

News about the family is always appreciated.

“I’m proud to say that Tommy Jr. graduated from college and is interning at Fidelity. It helps that he developed a network while in college. I’m proud that he understands the importance of building relationships.
“Claire is enjoying her senior year in high school and much to the chagrin of Ellen and me (did I say that?) is dating a wonderful boy who dotes on her. She’ll be heading off to UMaine and he’ll be going to Florida State (Joy).
“Little Jason is entering high school with intentions of wrestling and playing soccer. He doesn’t seem to be thinking of what he wants to do after high school. He jokes about becoming a professional gamer. (Does that exist.) Really, Jason is a good boy; I’m not too worried.”

Continue writing about what’s happening on the family front, but don’t brag too much. How many times have we read holiday newsletters that sound like a commercial for the all American family? Keep it real. However, don’t write negative content.

The Conclusion

Be upbeat and positive as you tell your recipients about your current situation. You want your friends and relatives to think about how they may help; you don’t want to drive them away with demands or sound needy or despondent.

“I think you may recall that I’m in transition from my position as director of marketing at my former software company. I’m in high spirits seeing my family and friends and relatives doing so well. This is a tough economy, and I know of many people out of work. Please keep me and others affected by the layoffs in your thoughts.”

Sign off with your telephone number and LinkedIn URL, if it feels appropriate. Also ask your recipients to write back with news about what’s going on in their lives. Good networking is not only about you, it’s also about those with whom you communicate no matter who the audience is. Show your interest as well.

In Addition

A post script could add a nice touch.

PS: This Christmas Eve I’m excited about ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. I’ll even be dressed as Santa. Jason said I’m a dork for doing this, but I can’t think of a better way to spend the night before Christmas than helping the needy.

Some important things to note: don’t ask if anyone knows of a job. You don’t want to put undue pressure on your friends and relatives who are not consumed with the labor market. The best delivery method for your letter will be a typed or hand-written letter delivered by snail mail, as it has a more personal touch and is more likely not to be forgotten.

Photo: Flickr, Memento

10 symptoms of unemployment, and why you should greet the unemployed with care

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A very talented man in pursuit of a job wrote to me that he’s been discouraged—almost amazed—by the insensitivity some people have displayed when talking to him. They begin the conversation by asking him if he’s still looking for work.

“I believe most people mean well,” he writes, “However, I have recently been approached by friends and former associates who open with, ‘Still out of work?’ Not even a fake pleasantry like, ‘How are you?’ I try to rebuff their affront somewhat jokingly; yet, am depleting my repertoire of comebacks.”

His words, not mine.

As gainfully employed people we must consider how such a thoughtless question impacts the jobseeker. Question like, “Are you still out of work?” or, “Have you found a job, yet?” will only offend the unemployed, despite your good intentions. Why is approaching a jobseeker with caution important, and what should you say?

Possible symptoms

His self-esteem has taken a huge hit. He feels shame and embarrassment, even though the condition of his lay-off was not his fault. Nonetheless, he is reluctant to talk about his unemployment with most people.
He is worried about finances. His daughter is slated to have braces installed in the next month, or he is falling behind on the bills. There might be decisions to make as to which expenses are priorities.
He is constantly playing back in his mind the reasons why he lost his job—poor performance, personality differences with his boss, salary too high. There is doubt and insecurity. Is he ready to take on another job?
He is wondering if his recruiter is going to call back with some news; it’s already been three days. He feels he nailed the interviews. What’s taking so long? He constantly checks his phone.
There hasn’t been an interview in the last 30 days, despite his networking efforts and the many online applications he has sent out. So he wonders if there is any hope left in finding a job.
Relations with his wife have been strained due to his dour mood and constant snapping at the kids. Unemployment can test even the best of marriages. The possibility of marriage counseling is great.
He feels depressed and doesn’t want to be reminded of the reason for his depression. Many things can spark off feelings of despondency; something as simple as being out of the environment he’s been in for the past 20 years.
He is experiencing physical problems which he can’t explain, such as headaches, stomach and chest pains, shooting pain across his back; most likely due to stress.
He avoids people, preferring to be alone. Taking the kids to playgroup is torture and he doesn’t associate with the mostly women at the group. He is alienating himself from family and friends.
If he hasn’t look for work for many years, the job search is alien to him. He may be paralyzed by the process of finding a job in a competitive labor market. (Read this post on how the job search has changed for older workers.)

How to approach someone who is unemployed

Opening questions or statements should be as temperate as possible. Start with a simple, “Hi” and sense if the jobseeker wants to engage in conversation. Don’t take it personally if he doesn’t respond to your greeting with enthusiasm. Lead with some close-ended questions or neutral comments to gauge his willingness to converse.

I asked my customer how one should talk to someone out of work. He suggests handling a scenario the following way:

Imagine you see your neighbor, Mike, in the grocery store. Instead of ducking into the next aisle, you do the right thing and acknowledge and greet him. You notice that he’s comparing prices of cereal. “Boy, the prices have shot through the roof,” you joke.

“I’ll say.” He seems contemplative.

“I’m a Frosted Mini-Wheats fan, but my kids like Cinnamon Toasted Crunch. How are you?”

“Could be better.” He’s definitely referring to his unemployment.

“I think it will get better, Mike….Soon. You’re a talented trainer….” Notice you use present tense.

In this example you do a good job of starting a dialog. You open the dialog with a light comment about cereal prices. You simply ask how he is doing, and he, not you, chooses to allude to his unemployment. As well, you give him a boost of confidence by telling him he’s talented at what he does.

But you’d like to help him at the moment. If you can’t, simply tell him that you’ll keep your ear to the pavement for any possibilities. However, if something comes to mind, mention it. “Mike, I don’t know if you’ve contacted Jason Martin at Jarvis Corporation, but they’re looking for a safety coordinator. They might be looking for a trainer. In any case, there’s movement at the company.”

Don’t be reluctant to shake Mike’s hand. Most people appreciate a kind gesture, the warmth of a human touch. Hold on to his hand a bit longer than you normally would; this demonstrates your concern for Mike and speaks louder than words. Your eyes can also do the talking for you. They can say, “I’m concerned, buddy, and rooting for you. This is what people who are unemployed need; a cheerleader, not insensitive questions about their unemployment.

Photo: Flickr, Robert Montgomery

5 traits that lead to a successful job search. Hint, it’s about customer service

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Successful businesses realize that selling excellent products at reasonable prices is not enough. They have to couple that with excellent customer service. This last component cannot be overlooked. To most consumers it’s a vital ingredient.

When people ask me which business offers the best customer service, I automatically say Starbucks. My valued LinkedIn connection and Chief Influence Officer, Brian Ahearn, felt the same way in 2013 when he wrote 5 Reasons Why Starbucks is so Persuasive.

That was awhile ago, but I’m willing to bet he still prefers Starbucks over the competition.

I asked Brian which five traits of customer service stand out in his mind. He was quick to rattle them off—I’m sure he could think of others, though. His five traits are: friendly, responsive, helpful, empathetic, and knowledgeable.

Smart job seekers understand that everyone is their customer.

Friendly

My experience with Starbucks has consistently been pleasant because the baristas are…friendly. They smile, ask me if I need anything else, and always wish me a good day. I feel as if I’m the only one they’re waiting on.

Not only should you smile; you should also make eye contact and project warmth in your voice. Again, simple advice; but I can attest that when my clients do all threee of these three, they receive a better response from me and others.

At a networking event, you’ll come across as friendly while talking with networking partners, which makes you come across as someone they would recommend to a hiring authority, if the opportunity arises. Of course there are other attributes you need to demonstrate.

Similarly, your friendly demeanor is essential in an interview, where you want to come across as affable, someone with whom people want to work. Friendly seems like a simple trait, yet it packs a bigger punch then most think.

Responsive

The baristas that take my order at the drive-through don’t need to be told twice what I and the members in my car want. They make me think, “Dang, they’re on the ball.” This is one example of responsiveness. I’m sure you can think of others.

You have to be responsive to your networking partners who rely on you for advice and possible leads. When answering a job ad, you must send your résumé and cover letter to potential employers within a day or two. This will indicate how responsive you’ll be when you work for them.

When being interviewed on the phone, showing great customer service means getting back to the interviewer quickly. Many a job seeker has lost out on jobs because they kept the interviewer waiting. Be prepared to answer the difficult questions; don’t waste the interviewer’s time.

Helpful

This trait brings to mind companies that are aren’t helpful. The associates are nowhere in sight, and when you happen to land one like a fish, they give you convoluted directions that confuse you more than help.

Being helpful in the job search means helping others who are looking for work. I wrote a post about giving to others while networking. This means thinking of others before thinking of yourself, which may seem difficult given your situation.

Help employers by applying for jobs for which you’re qualified. I know this sounds like basic information, but this is one of the biggest complaints recruiters and hiring managers have. I tell my clients they should meet at least 85% of the requirements, not 40% or 50%.

Empathetic

A company that shows empathy will understand the concerns of its customers. Products or services that don’t perform up to standards and need to be returned without hassle is one example of showing empathy.

This post from John White describes how his employer handled a difficult situation involving irate customers.

As a career strategist, I see the roller coaster of emotions job seekers go through in their job search. As my customers I have to be empathetic to their plight. This doesn’t mean, however, that I should let them lose focus and drive because of their turmoil.

Nor should you allow your fellow networkers lose sight of the endgame. Understand what they’re experiencing, but hold them accountable for their search. You can empathize with them, because you’ve been there, but you also realize they have to conduct their search, when they may want to stay home and watch Ellen.

Knowledgeable

Have you ever come across a technical customer service rep who answers all your questions, even the ones before you ask them. They lead you through a serious of complicated procedures in order to get your computer up and running. You’re so grateful that you want to talk to their supervisor so you can praise your technical customer service rep.

This is how you need to come across in the job search. I think of Mavens who are there to provide advice to struggling job seekers; whether this is in an organized networking group or a meetup or one-on-one.

One client who comes to mind is not only knowledgeable, he’s also caring.

Of course, demonstrating knowledge is most important when you’re sitting in the hot seat at an interview. Able to answer questions about the role, company, even competition is essential to your success. This requires extensive research on these three elements, not a cursory read of the job description and website.

Take your research to the next level—this is what the knowledgeable customer service rep—did. Study anything written about the company on the Internet. Talk to people who work at the company. Read press releases and annual reports if the company is public. Leave no rocks uncovered.

No one values and knows customer service as well as Brian Ahearn. A recent post he wrote describes how last impressions are lasting impressions. It is a wonderful story that I can relate to.

I may even be more stringent than him, because even one bad experience may cause me not to return to a company. Yes, I know this is sad, but I do value customer service. And so should job seekers. They must realize that providing great customer service is essential to their search. Essential.

Photo: Flickr, Eurobase FulFillment, Flickr, Lynn Stover

A risk not taken in the job search, is an opportunity lost

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Many people are standing around a tranquil body of water with their fishing lines cast in it. They believe the water is abundant with fish. They’re content standing there exchanging a word or two, speaking of hope and opportunity. They feel like old friends who are in it together.

Before a cave stands one man looking into it, and from within the cave eyes stare at him. The eyes are frightening, for they could be the eyes of monsters; but on the other hand they could be the eyes of friendly people. The man’s just not sure of which. So he waits.

The people are comfortable standing around that body of water with fishing lines dangling from their poles. There’s comfort in numbers. The weather is fine—fine as in real fine, not sticky hot. Life is grand.

Because the man in front of the cave is afraid of dark spaces, he won’t enter it even if someone were to beat him with a stick. It’s better to wait.

Eventually the people grow tired of standing around the body of water with nothing happening. They get hungry and their arms get tired from holding their light fishing poles. They start lowering their poles, grumbling from hunger. Life isn’t so grand.

Because the man standing before the cave doesn’t feel particularly courageous, he stands there wondering if it’s worth entering. It’s damn cold out and whatever’s inside the cave seem to be comfortable. Whoever’s in there continue to look out, almost taunting him. It’s as if they know something he doesn’t, and this begins to bug him.

Risks are hard to measure and the outcomes are not certain. Because they’re hard to measure, safety (as in numbers) and a common belief (there has to be fish in the water) seem to be more viable. This is exactly why the man is having a hard time entering that cave; it’s risky. Soon he’ll discover that he is a risk taker, an explorer. At the moment he’s unsure of what to do.

The people around the body of water, who are now beginning to drop their fishing poles and swear about being hungry, aren’t risk takers. And look what it’s getting them. They’re getting no fish. Further, they’re beginning to think that even if there are fish in the water, there are too many people with whom to share the fish…if there are fish.

Eventually the man standing at the entrance of the cave decides that entering the unknown is better than standing there and getting nothing accomplished. He takes a breath and puts one step forward, backs up, takes another breath, again puts the foot forward, then puts the other foot forward, until he’s in the cave. And guess what, it doesn’t seem that dark when his eyes adjust.

What he sees around him are opportunities that were hidden from him until he took a risk—only it wasn’t really a risk, as it turns out. He only has one regret; he wishes he’d entered the cave a lot sooner.

Meanwhile the people round the body of water leave, each believing that there are fish in the water. The fish weren’t biting today, but tomorrow will be a new day with hope renewed. They’ll discover much later that the promise of fish was an empty one.

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