The Career Coach's Blog

I couldn't have done it without you

This is what a client said to me today. And, this is not the first time I have heard this...

Their kind words mean a lot; it means that they are reaching their goals.

It's hard to make your goals happen by yourself.  I joke that Adam had Eve and Peanut Butter has Jelly. We are not meant to reach new heights solo. It's a journey you take with someone else.

Coaching works because you have someone who helps you when life gets in the way or your thoughts get in the way. Once you are able to clear these things out, you become un-stop-able.

And, who doesn't want to be un-stop-able? 

 

How To Really Move Forward In Your Career

People come to me all the time because they are unhappy in their careers and are not sure what to do about it. They tell me the reasons they don’t have what they want; the economy, their company; some are even honest enough to blame themselves. They are all facing tough challenges, either internal or external.

When you have an unresolved challenge in your career, it affects your whole life. You think about your challenge all the time, and in many cases, it consumes and defines you. You want more and are willing to do the work; you just don’t believe it’s possible. Or, you don’t how to get there.

I believe that people do not move forward in their careers for 2 reasons. Once you overcome and push past these 2 items, you are ready to go.

So what are these 2 items?  Click here to read the rest of the article.

The Rewards Of Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions

Ok, it's one year later and it's time to look back on the resolutions you made last year. How did you do? Some of you succeeded and congratulations to those that did. The majority of us did not succeed and probably will not succeed next year either. So, why do we bother making these promises to ourselves year after year with little chance of success?

New Years Resolutions show that people yearn for a fresh start. This is their opportunity for a clean slate and a chance to try again. In theory, it is a great idea. But when you make resolutions because you think you should, they probably will not turn out.

Why? Because you are not choosing your resolutions, your resolutions are choosing you. You are making them because you think you should make them. Thus, you take the power out of your resolutions when you make them for any reason than because you want to.

Just think about it. If your spouse thinks you are overweight and you think you SHOULD do something about it, then your resolution to lose weight will not work. (You may not be ready.) If you hate your job and you think you SHOULD leave, you will not find another position until you want to in your heart. (No matter how much you complain.) If you think you SHOULD get along better with your siblings or your boss, this will not happen unless you want to have the conversations necessary to have a different outcome. (Sometimes we want things but not so badly that we have to do something about them.) It's challenging to make changes in our lives, and it takes something from within to make them stick.

This year, choose your resolutions because you WANT TO; not because you SHOULD. "I want to will carry you through the hard times when it seems like your resolutions might not come true. It will also give you the strength to make your resolutions a reality. "I Want To" is the key to your success.

Here's Seven Things To Give This Year Because You Want To, Not Because You Have To.

1. Your Time.

How many of you are too busy with your own lives to give your time to others? Being busy is an excuse and a reason not to go out of your way. People need you and love you. Make the time.

2. Your Support.

How many of you support the people you in your life? What I mean by support is encouragement to try something new. Just because it didn't work for you doesn't mean it won't work for them. And, just because it didn't work for them in the past, doesn't mean that it won't work in the future. There's nothing better than telling a person that they can do whatever they want in this world. And this time, please mean it.

3. Your Acceptance

This may be a toughie for some of you. This means unconditional love and the ability to acknowledge someone for who they are and not what you want them to be. It means giving up how you think their life should go, and accepting what they want to do with their lives. It means getting out of the way so they can fulfill their dreams.

4. Your Attention.

How many of you really listen? For everyone who just said, "of course I do", then why are the people in your life asking you to repeat what they just said? It's because they know you didn't hear them. Take a few minutes, stop what you are doing, and focus in on the people you love. Aren't they worth it? And who knows, you may even learn something you thought you already knew.

5. Your Forgiveness.

Forgive people for past mistakes and hurts. After all, they are only human. (We miss this sometimes!) Plus, have you’ve been the model human being? This really is one of the greatest gifts you can give another person. And, they’ll never forget you for it either!

6. Your Patience.

How many of you can't even be with the people you love because they are taking too long to tell a story or longer than "you think" to complete a project. How do you know there isn't a better way to do something? Does it always have to be done your way? Having patience with people shows them that they are respected and loved. Isn’t this a better way to have a relationship?

7. Your Love.

People want to know they are special in your life and you care about them. If there are conversations you need to have so you are not angry with them anymore, but you are afraid, my advice is to have them anyway. Sometimes you have to take a risk to achieve an open and rewarding relationship. Take the risk and give your love.

So, what do you say? You only have one life to live, so it might as well be a life you love.

In the new year, shoot for the impossible

CNN article: on the verge of a new year, it's time to take a step back.

"Did 2011 feel like a whirlwind? Any year can. But this year, the fast-paced, tumultuous changes in the world, against a backdrop of economic struggles at home, were a different story."

• Determined people chased the "impossible" and effected change.
• We also faced daily reminders of how badly new ideas are needed.
• With resolutions, bigger, tougher tasks that require more commitment are better.
• Keep that in mind for your goals for 2012. The world could be counting on you.

Full article at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/31/opinion/levs-impossible-resolutions/index.html?hpt=hp_c1

'I had to fire my friend' and other termination tales.

Fortune article: Whether you're on the delivering or receiving end, layoffs and firings are a messy office enterprise.

"When we worked together 15 years ago, she demonstrated terrific work ethic. So while she wasn't exactly scintillating in the personality department, I had no worries about her ability to do a great job."

"Unfortunately, 15 years can breed a lot of bad habits. She was habitually late (not minutes, more along the lines of hours) with no explanation. She missed deadlines. She would disappear for hours in the middle of the day with no explanation, and she'd watch TV on a small window on her monitor while "working."

"Even though I was not her direct supervisor -- I managed her supervisor -- the "powers that be" determined that I needed to do the deed."

"It made it much easier to be unemotional about firing her."

More tales at:

http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2011/03/17/i-had-to-fire-my-friend-and-other-termination-tales/

Don't let the Grinch steal your job.

Fortune: You can't fire everyone.

"Many companies have traditionally waited until after the holidays to deliver layoff notices. It never hurts to use the busy holiday season to make new contacts just in case."

"To many, New Year's signifies a renewal filled with great reflection and hope.  But while you are reflecting, your boss has been procrastinating. He's put off giving you the pink slip in lieu of that holiday bonus you were expecting."

"For many companies, January 1 marks a new fiscal year, but the reality is that your boss is waiting primarily because he doesn't have the stomach to ruin your Christmas. So he puts off the inevitable."

"It's hard to sniff out the Grinch in these situations. The best defense is a good offense, and the busy holiday party season gives you an opportunity to take your networking to a new level."

Full article at:

http://management.fortune.cnn.com/category/you-cant-fire-everyone/

Yes, there is a war for talent

Economist article written by Matthew Bishop that explains the tactics companies are taking to find talent in these un-fillable/shortage areas.

Click here to read the article.

Stop Being A Victim In Your Career

I know what it feels like to be trapped in a career. You dread going to work, but believe you have no options. You dream of greater things, but don’t know or don’t believe you can get them. You feel hopeless, powerless, and alone.

What’s missing is the bigger picture of where you are headed. Without a destination, you are like a leaf on a tree going where the wind takes you, rather than being the tree that stands strong despite the weather. A destination helps you weather the storm. In addition, you aren’t trapped in the day to day anymore because you know where you are headed.

Your bigger picture won’t be handed to you, you have to create it. You have to stop doing things the same old way and start doing things differently. Or, in other words, if you want something different, you have to do something different.

What can you do diffrerent? Click here to read the rest of the article.

Make the Most of Holiday Work

WSJ article: Seasonal jobs and shifts offer workers opportunities to earn extra money, gain experience and make connections.

Use the holiday's as a good time to set yourself up for the following year.

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204394804577011800416385834.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_4

 

Beat the Boss's Pet…or Become One

WSJ article: Preferential treatment tops a list of misconduct observed by employees, but there are ways to get legitimate accomplishments noticed and rewarded.

"If you've noticed that a co-worker is your boss's pet, you're not alone. Preferential treatment leads a list of types of misconduct observed by employees."

"Preferential treatment is a broad category, describing behavior that is unequally applied to workers and can inequitably benefit recipients. At times, preferential treatment is obvious. For instance, your superior has given yet another plum assignment to a junior associate from his alma mater. But some preferential treatment is difficult to detect."

Here are some strategies:

1)  Focus on your work

2)  Get Political

3)  Is it Fair?

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203804204577013691060164910.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_4

How I Found My First Big Job

WSJ article: There are at least a few success stories among the masses of unemployed 20-somethings. Two recent college graduates and one recent high-school grad describe what it took to succeed.

Finding Work After Sending Out 100 Applications, Taking an Unpaid Internship...

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203537304577028394060129950.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_4

Survey: Young Workers Want Jobs at Facebook, Apple and Google

CareerJournal article: Young professionals want to work for Google, Apple and Facebook, a new study says. Investment banks? Not so much.

"This is the second year that Universum has conducted the survey. Google topped the earlier survey as well."

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203537304577032224274830372.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_2

The Job Search: A Little Help From Your Friends

Forbes article: Since the job seekers and the job posters—rely on employment services, the industry has experienced significant growth in the past few years.

"For those who have lost their job or are having a hard time entering the U.S. workforce to begin with, one potential source of help is an employment service, a company that works to place applicants with appropriate employers. Employers, too, have sought help from these providers: as unemployment numbers rise, the number of applications received for each posted position increases, and it can be a full time job to simply weed through the submitted resumes looking for potential first-round interviewees. Rather than handle the entire process in-house, more companies are turning to executive search or temp agencies to reduce both their risk and time required to find the right candidate."

Full article at:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/sageworks/2011/09/06/the-job-search-a-little-help-from-your-friends/

Fourth Annual Job Action Day is Today!

Job-Seekers Urged to “Skill Up, Start Up, and Speak Up” for Fourth Annual Job Action Day.

. Today, a coalition of bloggers, authors, and career experts is offering job-seekers empowering articles, tips, and blog posts with information, ideas, and concrete steps that they can take to secure their futures -- both in the short-term and in the long-term.

The initiative is part of the fourth annual Job Action Day, founded by Quintessential Careers (http://quintcareers.com).

“Jobs are scarce. Many employers are not hiring; in fact, a number of employers are again laying off employees,” said Dr. Randall Hansen, publisher and CEO of Quintessential Careers. “We may no longer be in an economic recession, but we are certainly in a jobs recession – Job Action Day 2011 is designed to empower all job-seekers, from recent college grads to baby boomers.”

Job Action Day 2011 focuses on three themes:

Skill Up: The skills mismatch is a huge issue in the current jobs crisis. Thousands of jobs are going begging because employers can't find skilled employees. This theme focuses on what job-seekers can do to attain the skills that will help land these jobs (including retraining, internships, apprenticeships, lateral job moves, and more).

Start Up: While many workers during the recession have successfully tackled unemployment during the recession by starting small businesses, others have developed a whole new mindset of being the CEO of their careers -- having a portfolio of portable skills, a great network, flexibility, a project-mentality; not sitting at the computer visiting job boards, but getting out there and meeting people, knocking on doors, taking ownership of their career path.

Speak Up: Whether or not job-seekers agree with the strategies of the Occupy Wall Street movement and its spinoffs, they have the option to be more vocal and demand action from elected officials -- using the media to push a jobs agenda and demanding better media coverage of the jobs crisis -- as well as from business to create more jobs.

More information about Job Action Day can be found here: http://www.jobactionday.com

The Cure For People Who Hate To Self-Promote

Fortune article:  Not everyone likes talking about themselves.

"When the promotion is all about you, it can be hard."

How can you self-promote more comfortably, with grace and confidence?

1. Find a cause that combines your career and your passion.

2. Put yourself in places to take advantage of your position and provide a larger platform.

3. Extend your reach.

Full article at:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/work-in-progress/2011/09/01/the-cure-for-people-who-hate-to-self-promote/

Lessons Steve Jobs Can Teach Us - If We'll Listen

Fortune article: In a few years from now, your kids and grandkids will ask you what it was like to be alive when Steve Jobs was the CEO of Apple (AAPL).  

They will say: “Jobs was the best CEO in business."

"What was he like? What did you learn from him?"

What will your answer be?

Move up Move down

Full article at:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/ericjackson/2011/09/19/the-top-ten-lessons-steve-jobs-can-teach-us-if-well-listen/

Moms and the Sidelines: If You Leave the Workforce, Don't Abandon Your Career

Fortune article: Last week I sat on the sidelines as my daughter played soccer and found myself surrounded by a number of vibrant moms...

"Ironically, the conversation turned to being on the sidelines – in the workforce.The moms included a former attorney, a former magazine editor and a marketing executive. They had each taken between five and seven years off to raise kids. All of them expressed a desire to get back into the workforce. Each of them felt powerless to do so."

"I am usually optimistic and I love helping women – especially with their careers. Yet this conversation left me oddly despondent and I found myself grappling to find the solutions they needed. It also got me thinking and obsessing about how important it is for women who take time off to keep a foot in the door."

"More than half of all mothers will experience a divorce or a husband’s untimely illness, death or unemployment in their lifetimes. And that just as we focus on our children’s physical and emotional safety, we should work to protect them financially."

"I believe that no matter what path a professional woman chooses, she must keep working in some way."

Full article at:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/samanthaettus/2011/09/20/moms-and-the-sidelines-if-you-leave-the-workforce-dont-abandon-your-career/

Career Coaching is hot. Is it right for you?

Fortune article: Once seen as the last step for an executive about to fall off the ladder, leadership coaches now help smooth a promotion, teach outsiders about their new culture, and tune up talent.

"According to an American Management Association survey, almost half of participating companies use coaching to prepare individuals for a promotion or new role."

"While half of companies provide coaches to midlevel or senior staff only, 38% make them available to anyone. Coaching's three most common uses: leadership development, remedial performance improvement, and optimizing strong contributors.

"A coach is like a personal trainer for business."

Full article at:

http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2011/08/29/coaching-is-hot-is-it-right-for-you/

The 3 Things a Hiring Manager Needs to Know to Hire You

Career Brazen Blog: If there is one thing organizations want to avoid, it’s this: hiring the wrong person.

"Knowing the three things that a hiring manager is looking for will lower the perceived risk about your candidacy and help you slide right into that dream job."

Here they are:

1. Are you likeable?

2. Are you motivated?

3. Can you do the job?

Full posting at:

http://blog.brazencareerist.com/2011/09/08/hiring-manager-needs-to-know-in-order-to-hire-you

Is your old boss wrecking your job hunt?

Fortune article: Even a lukewarm reference from a former employer can be enough to cost you the job you want. 

"I was recently forced out of my job, following a dispute with my boss that was partly about ethics. I spoke with both an attorney and the local labor board, and because of the unusual circumstances surrounding my firing, they both think that I could win in court if I decided to sue the company, but I'm not interested in a long, costly legal battle.""

"Even without a separation agreement that specifically prohibits a former employer from badmouthing an ex-employee, most big companies have blanket policies in place that permit references to confirm nothing more than dates of employment and job title."

"Unfortunately, like so many corporate policies, these are honored mainly in the breach."

One possible way to get around this...

"When an interviewer asks you for references, you can say right up front, 'My former boss and I didn't see eye to eye, so if I may, I'd like to give you contact information for three other people who can tell you about my performance, just so you get a balanced picture."

"That way, even if your old boss is undermining you, the person who calls him for a reference doesn't get an unpleasant surprise -- and you don't appear to be trying to hide something."

Full article at:

http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2011/09/01/is-your-old-boss-wrecking-your-job-hunt/

Billie Jean King's surprising secret to success

Fortune article: What is the No. 1 trait that has led to your success?

"I asked her what is her No. 1 trait. I love people, she replied."

"Relationships are everything."

Full article at:

http://postcards.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2011/09/06/billie-jean-kings-surprising-secret-to-success/?iid=SF_F_LN

How to Get Hired After Long-Term Unemployment

Quoted in this informative article written by Lisa Gerstner, Staff Writer for Kiplinger's Magazine.

"The employment market’s recent fits and starts are straining the economy and the patience of job seekers. But none more than the long-term unemployed (officially defined as those without a job for 27 weeks or more), who struggle to rise to the top of candidate pools as their skills degrade or fail to match today’s demands. Some employers have blatantly excluded people who are not currently working from consideration for job openings, according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which is examining the practice as possible job discrimination."

"Surviving a long search requires maintaining  confidence, which will help project a positive attitude in interviews, says career coach Deborah Brown-Volkman. Stay busy. Volunteer or take classes and tell potential employers what you’ve been doing. Keep your network current, and be flexible about jobs you pursue. Don’t underestimate the personal touch."

Full article at:

http://www.kiplinger.com/magazine/archives/how-to-get-hired-after-long-term-unemployment.html

Smart Consumer’s Guide To Money Coaching and Financial Education

Todd Tresidder sent me a review copy of the ebook, “Smart Consumer’s Guide To Money Coaching and Financial Education” found at http://financialmentor.com/financial-coaching.

What’s unique about this book is the perspective he brings having worked both on the investment management and financial education side of the business for 30 years. 

In his ebook, he teaches you how smart consumers develop their financial intelligence so you can grow your wealth. He is providing helpful education to improve your financial life. 

Good stuff.

Employers to hike pay, but only for a select few

CNN article:Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, companies are betting on their best workers -- and are willing to pay more to prove it.

"Half of the businesses that plan to hike pay said they plan to do so in order to retain top talent."

"With many employees doing the work of two, or even three, people, employers are using compensation as a way to convince top talent to stay put."

"If you are a top performer in a critical role, you are still valuable in the marketplace."

"For those unsure whether they fall into that category, those who are top performers know it."

Full article at:

http://money.cnn.com/2011/07/27/pf/employee_pay/index.htm?hpt=hp_t2

Google+ Is Good For Your Career

Career Brazen blog: Can Google+ benefit your career and your professional life?

• Google+ is not a magic wand.
• Google+ is a communication tool, not a branding tool.
• Understanding the latest technology is absolutely vital to your career.

More details at:

http://blog.brazencareerist.com/2011/07/21/google-is-good-for-your-career/

Seeking Information, Not Employment

CareerJournal article: Informational interviews are still a big part of the job market landscape, but nobody likes to talk about them.

"I'm thinking about a career change and would love to go on a few informational interviews to learn more about the fields I am considering. But I rarely hear anyone talk about informational interviews anymore. Are people still giving them or are they too worried about their own jobs to take the time? How would I go about setting one up? Who should I target? Are certain questions off limits?"

"In this tight job market, an informational interview can give you the edge you need to get hired by establishing a good connection at a prospective firm."

"This kind of interview can also give you a realistic idea of what a job at the company might entail – and whether it's a good fit."

"People who like to give these kinds of interviews are out there; you just have to find them."

"Position yourself as someone worth taking the time to meet."

"Websites such as LinkedIn make it even easier."

"Once you've landed the appointment, don't go to the meeting unprepared. Read up on industry trends and talk with other professionals in the field and use the information as a conversation starting point."

"Don't wear out your welcome. Ask for half an hour—and don't go a minute over."

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304450604576418112763216504.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_4

7 Decently-Paying Careers with Lots of Opportunities

CBS Interactive Business Network article: Looking for a job, or thinking of changing fields? CareerBuilder has a little cheat sheet that should help you make some smart choices.

"one third of human resource managers say they have open positions for which they can’t find qualified candidates."

Article lists most promising fields for job seekers.

Full article at:

http://www.bnet.com/blog/business-research/7-decently-paying-careers-with-lots-of-opportunities/1869

 

Career Approval Comes From You

Article I wrote posted to Davinci blog one of my favorites.

"Most people look for approval from the outside. They want to feel good about their choices and career path. They want validation that they are doing the right things at the right time and are being understood and respected for their decisions. After all, who doesn’t want to hear the sound of applause or cheers due to their efforts? The truth is approval makes us feel better about ourselves. "

"Approval becomes a problem when you need it too much. Or, when it holds you back because you can’t move forward without it. Many people believe approval means they are loved and accepted; words that make them feel warm and fuzzy inside."

"True approval comes from you; your inside opinion and view of what you are doing and where you are headed. Outside views may give you validation, but inside approval gives you peace, calm, and a sense of direction."

3 steps for giving career approval to yourself at:

http://blogs.davincivirtual.com/career/career-approval-comes-from-within/

How to connect with an employer via Linked In

CareerBuilder article: Used right, LinkedIn can be a job seeker's golden ticket.

"Savvy job seekers can use the site to gain all kinds of job search advantages: information on the types of people the company hires, the name of the hiring manager for a particular job (and if they're really lucky, an email address) and even the ultimate "in," a personal connection at a company of interest."

"But, for every job seeker that expertly navigates the online networking scene, there are plenty of others who fumble their way through it, often over- or underestimating the role the site should play in their job search."

Some tips I liked:

·   Don't be shy

·   Don't be needy

·   Make a good first impression

·   Look at who they hire

Full article at:

http://msn.careerbuilder.com/Article/MSN-2689-Job-Search-How-to-connect-with-an-employer-via-Linked-In/?sc_extcmp=JS_2689_advice&SiteId=cbmsn42689

Overcoming the unemployed stigma

CareerBuilder article: Biggest roadblocks are your perceptions and your perceived perceptions of others.

Some tips:

Don't view yourself as unemployed. Don't call yourself "unemployed." View yourself as somebody "between jobs," somebody who is given time in exchange for losing a job. You might not even know at the time of lay-off whether employment, self-employment, or something else is in your future.

Use your time strategically. Don't just apply for jobs and watch TV the rest of the day. Use your time wisely. Perhaps, you would have better job prospects if you were certified in your field? Go for it. Want to check out a different city with better opportunities in your area of expertise? Your time has come. Always postponed becoming fluent in a foreign language? Learn one now. Never had the time to shed unwanted weight? Put in the effort now.

Full article at:

http://msn.careerbuilder.com/Article/MSN-2692-Job-Search-Overcoming-the-unemployed-stigma/?sc_extcmp=JS_2692_advice&SiteId=cbmsn42692

Important tips for Skype interviews

CareerBuilder article via the CNN web site: With video interviews becoming more common during hiring, not being prepared can easily keep you out of the running. While meeting via video is time saver, getting past the technological barriers of not speaking face-to-face can be difficult.

• Knowing how to do a video interview can be crucial in today's job market
• Practice before the interview and conduct a mock interview so you know what to expect
• Be aware of your background and add extra enthusiasm paired with concise answers

Full article at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/LIVING/07/11/skype.interview.tips.cb/index.html

Have You Had Horrible Bosses?

CareerJournal article: sometimes the most feasible option is simply dealing with the current situation, unpleasant as it may be: either grinning and bearing it, or talking with another supervisor or colleague about switching groups or managers.

What do you think?

Comments from readers:

"Bad bosses have definitely made their contribution to our current economic malaise."

"Bad bosses enable each other."

Full article at:

http://blogs.wsj.com/juggle/2011/07/08/have-you-had-horrible-bosses/

The Myth Of Career Bliss

Fortune post: If you asked me my views on career reinvention five years ago, I would have said some very different things than I do today.

"The “myth of career bliss” – the damaging, misleading notion that all it takes to make your life happier is to chuck out your old, unsatisfying career and come up with a new one, despite what else is falling apart in your life."

"It’s not a wholesale career change that will bring you the satisfaction and peace you want. Instead, it’s taking hard, urgently-needed action that addresses the root causes of your troubles that will make the difference in your career and life."

Busting the Career Bliss Myth: The Six Steps You Need to Take to Change Your Life for the Better

1. Power up and speak up – Figure out who you really are, and what you’re intrinsically worth as an individual in this world.
2. Build a stronger, more empowered relationship with money – take control of your finances.
3. Determine your three TOP life priorities, then make sure you’re attending to those before you even consider career change.
4. Stop procrastinating and get going.
5. Re-purpose your skills and talents.
6. Then develop a S.M.A.R.T. transition plan to get you from where you are today, to where you want to go.

Great tips.

Full article at:

http://blogs.forbes.com/85broads/2011/06/25/the-myth-of-career-bliss/

5 things you can learn from Jay-Z's career

CareerBuilder article: Whether or not you're a fan of his music, you have to like at least one of his tracks, you can't deny that the man has been able to achieve and exceed his goals.

Here are five lessons that I think we can learn from Jay-Z's career:

1. Find something your passionate about and make it part of your life

2. Market yourself

3. Know when to move on

4. Be willing to shake things up

5. Manage your private life

Full article at:

http://msn.careerbuilder.com/Article/MSN-2609-Career-Growth-and-Change-5-things-you-can-learn-from-Jay-Zs-career/?sc_extcmp=JS_2609_advice&SiteId=cbmsn42609&catid=gc

Can you really change careers without starting over?

Career Builder article: When faced with these concerns, it's no wonder you may hesitate to make a change. But you should never feel stuck in an unfulfilling job, because your career change options are probably greater than you realize.

"Make your next career the sequel to your previous career. Do something different that uses the knowledge and skills you already have."

The article provides an overview of several types of sequel careers. It lists five of them and details about the kind of work and skills they involve.

I like it. An additional possibility of starting over is acquiring a Masters of Business Administration (M.B.A).  Another good choice you can consider to move your career forward.

Full article at:

http://msn.careerbuilder.com/Article/MSN-2634-Career-Growth-and-Change-Can-you-really-change-careers-without-starting-over/?sc_extcmp=JS_2634_advice&SiteId=cbmsn42634&catid=gc

How Throwing Up May Be Good For Your Career

Great post from a great writer, Adam Rico. Love the title too.

Here's an excerpt:

Recently I had an exchange with someone that went like this.

“How was your fifty mile run?’

“It went really well.  After I finished the run I threw up for three hours.  It was great!”

It was great?  I thought about that statement for a couple of days afterwards.  Here was a seemingly lucid man I’ve known my entire life.  He’s never been crazy before.  Poor guy, I wonder what happened?

However, as I thought about it more, I realized how throwing up for three hours could be considered a great experience!

Full blog post at:

http://www.workyouenjoy.com/career/how-throwing-up-may-be-good-for-your-career/

Updating a Résumé for 2011

WSJ article: Back in the job market after 10 years, a reader wonders how to update her résumé to make it more current by today's standards.

"Today, they need to craft a package both online and off to present to a prospective employer."

Here's some of the tips:

Embrace technology. The biggest change is also the most expected one: a move toward technology. An online networking presence is no longer just an option but a requirement.

Expansion is good. The one-page rule for résumés no longer holds true. While one page makes sense when you have little experience, you have 10, 20 or more years of experience."

Looks still count. If an employer or a recruiter is seeking you out because of a reputation, the résumé's appearance may not matter. If you are seeking out an employer's attention, its appearance does matter."

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303657404576363612674900024.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_4

How to Criticize Your Boss Nicely

WSJ article: Just as important as what you say,  is how you say it.

"Depending on the relationship you have with your boss as well as the tone you use, it could work to bring you closer or end up causing a rift."

"Any time you are offering unsolicited advice, you run the risk of alienating versus helping."

"Catch them in a moment when they're more receptive and not racing around or short on time."

"The conversation doesn't have to be long or drawn out. It can be delivered simply and to the point."

"It is quite common for people to feel like they need to correct or fix others. But the fact is we are judging by our own personal standards."

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703834804576301343634619546.html?mod=WSJ_article_RecentColumns_CareersQ%26A

How to Handle a Bad Boss

WSJ article: I really like my job and all the people who I work with except for one: my new boss.

What do you do? Here's some tips and highlights from the article:

"While looking for another job may turn out to be your best option, don't start your search just yet. A job you really like and coworkers with whom you get along are benefits you don't want to lose in the current economy. What a disappointment if you leave your current job, only to find yourself in a new job with a whole new set of problems. So, try to resolve your issues first."

"Start by making a list of the essentials you need in order to be effective and happy at your job. Next, set up a meeting with him/her. The meeting can serve as an opportunity to bridge the gap between your needs and those of your boss. Discuss the company, the group, and the team strategies and priorities along with your boss's priorities and how you can best support them."

"Many times, new bosses are completely unaware of the discomfort their styles are causing."

"The biggest mistake you can make is to sit around and wait for your boss to leave."

"Bosses come in all shapes, sizes and with all kinds of backgrounds. The way to succeed is to find a way to become important to that new boss. In doing so, the boss wins, you win and the company wins."

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704529204576256842937738676.html?mod=WSJ_article_RecentColumns_CareersQ%26A

Does Busier Job Equal Happier Marriage?

WSJ article: Working moms tend to be happier with their marriages when they are shouldering heavy workloads on the job, says a new study.

"One reason may be that when working moms’ workloads increase, their husbands tend to help out more at home."

"For many people in general, working hard can be energizing and can complement one’s role as a spouse."

Full article at:

http://blogs.wsj.com/juggle/2011/06/06/does-busier-job-equal-happier-marriage/

Learn to Like Your Job

WSJ article: Toxic workplace relationships, failing company fortunes and limited advancement opportunities are just a few reasons to quit a job. But experts say many problems employees think are irreconcilable can be improved with action and a change of attitude.

"Find out if your problems are unique. Reach out to co-workers in other departments, peers through industry associations or even call colleagues at other companies to compare notes."

"Separate the demands of work from your own expectations of yourself. If you're unhappy about falling short of your own personal career goals, try breaking your big goals into smaller, more realistically achievable ones. This can improve your morale by reinforcing small successes."

"Pitch your boss on a less formal and more goal-oriented workplace. And offer improved results in exchange for more autonomy.  Most people are generally happier at work when given more creative freedom to do their jobs."

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303657404576366032609504632.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_4

Anthony Weiner: Mixing Business With Pleasure

WSJ article: The Weiner scandal highlights how there is very little separation between private transgressions and public and professional fallout.

"Anthony Weiner admitted to sending sexually suggestive photographs and messages to six women online over three years and lying about his behavior."

"Weiner joins a disturbingly long line of public figures (Eliot Spitzer, John Ensign, Christopher Lee, Arnold Schwarzenegger, John Edwards, Mark Sanford, Bill Clinton and on and on) behaving badly in their private lives."

"The Weiner scandal, like those that have come before, highlight that in this age, when public figures send personal musings (and lewd images) from their official Twitter and email accounts, there really is very little separation between private transgressions and public and professional fallout. Indeed, what made the recent Schwarzenegger revelations so surprising was not that he had fathered a son with his housekeeper, but that he had managed to hide it for a decade."

Secrets eventually come out. Today, they just come out quicker.

Full article at:

http://blogs.wsj.com/juggle/2011/06/07/anthony-weiner-mixing-business-with-pleasure/

Business Lunches Beat the Clock

WSJ article: Restaurants court executives with no time to spare, offering fine dining that takes 30 minutes, from ordering through dessert.  Hold the chitchat, please.

"Time-pressed executives are ordering something new for lunch—fine dining at the speed of a drive-through window."

"In cities from New York and Chicago to Dallas and San Francisco, many white-tablecloth establishments are catering to their booked-solid clientele with a formal lunch that takes 30 minutes, from ordering through dessert. It's not exactly fast food. But the format does bring a new level of efficiency to a business ritual that otherwise can go on for an hour or more."

"The 30-minute moniker appeals to executives worried about slow service. We're seeing a shift of lunches from social to functional. All of us are working harder than ever and have less time in our day to get stuff done."

Now. lunch is efficient too.

Full article at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303657404576363883848608592.html?mod=WSJ_Careers_CareerJournal_2

 

The 10 Hardest Jobs To Fill In America

Fortune article: The staffing firm ManpowerGroup surveyed 1,300 U.S. employers in the first quarter of 2011 to find out what kinds of employees were the most wanted. It turns out the hardest positions to fill are those in skilled trades, which includes carpenters, plumbers, electricians and other tool-wielding tradesmen.

"Employers say they’re having trouble because job candidates are looking for more pay than is offered, they lack technical skills, or they lack experience."

“There are a number of factors that contribute to the ongoing difficulties related to filling skilled trades jobs. The demographics tell us that skilled trades professionals are starting to age out of the workforce, so the existing talent pool is shrinking, and the pipeline of new talent isn’t large enough to replace the retirees. In the U.S. we tend to encourage young people to attend four-year colleges and universities, when in fact that is not the only option, nor is it the right track for everyone. The skilled trades are honorable professions, and we need to bring that attitude back.”

Full listing with pictures here:

http://www.forbes.com/2011/05/31/hardest-jobs-to-fill_slide.html

Is Your Commute Ruining Your Relationship?

Fortune article: New research from Umea University in Sweden suggests that a 45-minute commute each way increases the likelihood of a breakup by 40%.

"Social geographer Erika Sandow examined the habits of 2 million couples over 10 years, and concluded that the social costs of work travel may outweigh the monetary gains."

"One reason for commuters’ increased love troubles may be an imbalance of commute times. If one partner travels farther, the other might get stuck with greater family or household duties."

"Another possibility is that the couples weren’t meant to be in the first place. Those that managed the commute for over a year, Sandow found, were generally in the clear."

Full article at:

http://blogs.forbes.com/jennagoudreau/2011/06/03/is-your-commute-ruining-your-relationship/

Setting our Priorities on Memorial Day and Everyday

Fortune article: For anyone who has lost a loved one in battle, watched a war movie or been enslaved by the evils of dictators, Memorial Day is in honor of you.

"There are men and women who have either served or are currently serving our country. Their purpose is to make USA safe. Unlike running their own business, they didn’t join the armed forces to get rich. They aren’t in it for glory. They hope they make it back to the USA safe; if not they hope their families will understand and be able to cope with the grief. These men and women literally put their lives on the firing line so we can have a better life."

"We live in the best nation in the world. Surely we can figure out a way to immediately assist our veterans."

"To all the veterans and military – thank you for making USA land of the free and home of the brave."

Full article at:

http://blogs.forbes.com/prospernow/2011/05/30/setting-our-priorities-on-memorial-day-and-everyday/

Workplace Cited as a New Source of Rise in Obesity

NY Times article: Looking beyond poor eating habits and a couch-potato lifestyle, a group of researchers has found a new culprit in the obesity epidemic: the American workplace.

"Today, an estimated one in three Americans are obese."

"A sweeping review of shifts in the labor force since 1960 suggests that a sizable portion of the national weight gain can be explained by declining physical activity during the workday. Jobs requiring moderate physical activity, which accounted for 50 percent of the labor market in 1960, have plummeted to just 20 percent."

"The remaining 80 percent of jobs, the researchers report, are sedentary or require only light activity. The shift translates to an average decline of 120 to 140 calories a day in physical activity, closely matching the nation’s steady weight gain over the past five decades, according to the report."

"The findings also put pressure on employers to step up workplace heath initiatives and pay more attention to physical activity at work."

Most reader comments weren't buying it citing poor eating habits as the reason for increased waistlines at work. One reader said they cannot believe what people are eating and this is why individuals weigh more than they should.

Full article at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/26/health/nutrition/26fat.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=workplace&st=cse

Why You Need an Elevator Pitch

CareerJournal article: Recently I found myself in an elevator with a senior executive at my company. Awkwardness ensued.

"I was at a loss for anything clever or interesting to say. He tried to initiate conversation with a benign statement about the elevator. I tried to make a witty reply, but it didn’t come across very well."

"Most professionals can benefit from developing their own version of the elevator pitch (even if there are no actual elevators in their workplaces) for those unexpected times when they are alone in a small space with someone important, like the company CEO or a high profile visitor to their office. It could not only avoid awkwardness but possibly boost their standing."

"Have you had any awkward run-ins with senior execs of your company?"

Full article and a place to comment at:

http://blogs.wsj.com/juggle/2011/05/18/why-you-need-an-elevator-pitch/

How To Tell Someone They’re Wrong

And, Make Them Feel Good About It...

Fortune article: There are plenty of reasons not to tell someone they’re wrong. It’s uncomfortable, for one thing. You also might come off as rigid, unsympathetic, arrogant, or worst of all, politically incorrect.

"Here’s what all the touchy-feely folks out there don’t get about constructive criticism: It’s invaluable. The important thing is how you deliver it."

"Any fool can deliver a meaningless “good job.” Being a constructive critic takes thought, effort and compassion."

Article has 8 tips for getting your good intentions across. My favorite is:

"Show Them The Way. Criticism without an action plan is worthless. Give them direction or keep your mouth shut."

Full article with the remaining 7 tips at:

http://blogs.forbes.com/stevenberglas/2011/03/22/how-to-tell-someone-theyre-wrong-and-make-them-feel-good-about-it/

Confronting the coming American worker shortage

CNN article: There will still be openings for math and science students when they graduate.

"Only one fifth of today's 8th graders are proficient or advanced in math, citing figures from national educational assessments."

"Given current state and local budget squeezes, with teacher layoffs and the continued debate over whether education should be tightly tied to test results, it is doubtful that states will take any action -- like setting aside financial resources or raising standards for math and science."

"To tackle the predicted lack of qualified workers, Raytheon Co., a major defense contractor, has developed software to help state educators, lawmakers and others develop tailored plans to improve math and science education and workforce policies."

"The private sector cannot replace" federal support "for basic science and engineering research and math and science education that undergirds America's national economic competitiveness."

Full article at:

http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2011/05/20/confronting-the-coming-american-worker-shortage/?source=cnn_bin&hpt=Sbin

The Evolution of the Office

Very interesting perspective with pictures. 

"Most of us spend the majority of our waking hours in the office. It’s where we earn our livings, receive social interactions, and find our professional identities, which makes it an excellent gauge for the development of society. The images depict the evolution of the office from as early as the 1500s all the way to today. It’s fascinating to see how the adoption of new technologies, fashions, and attitudes has changed our second home."

Full article at: http://www.highersalary.com/the-evolution-of-the-office/