Successful career professionals have a written career plan. Here's some good advice by Patra Frame on how to create an action plan for your successful career.
Miss reading my resume, cover letter, and job search articles? I post them over on my website, Susan Ireland's Resume Site now. Join me there!
Showing posts with label career - career change. Show all posts
Showing posts with label career - career change. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
How to Make a Government-to-Civilian Career Change
In this video Patricia A. Frame explains how make a successful government-to-civilian career change. One of her secrets: Use your current network of professionals who have already made such a transition.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Graduating into Retirement: Are You Ready?
My 97-year-old mom was sitting at the dining room table in her assisted living facility when she said, "Everyone should have at least two hobbies by the time they turn 70."
I knew exactly what she meant. Years ago, she co-managed a hotel with my father. When they "graduated" into retirement my mom became a full-time knitter, falling back on a favorite hobby she'd started in her teens. Hundreds of afghans and sweaters later, knitting was something that, until recently, kept her husy and gave her purpose well into retirement..
She also had crossword puzzles, walking, and reading. At 97 she's not able to do all the hobbies she had going when she retired, but she's still able to do some of them.
We think about financial retirement planning, but we don't talk too much about occupational retirement planning. What will you do with your time after you retire? Do you have a hobby or interest to give you purpose and keep you stimulated physically and mentally?
I knew exactly what she meant. Years ago, she co-managed a hotel with my father. When they "graduated" into retirement my mom became a full-time knitter, falling back on a favorite hobby she'd started in her teens. Hundreds of afghans and sweaters later, knitting was something that, until recently, kept her husy and gave her purpose well into retirement..
She also had crossword puzzles, walking, and reading. At 97 she's not able to do all the hobbies she had going when she retired, but she's still able to do some of them.
We think about financial retirement planning, but we don't talk too much about occupational retirement planning. What will you do with your time after you retire? Do you have a hobby or interest to give you purpose and keep you stimulated physically and mentally?
Monday, April 25, 2011
How to Make a Career Change on a Resume
Making a career change can be tricky on a resume. If your work history strongly suggests to an employer that you want to remain in your old field, you need work extra hard on your resume to convince him otherwise.
Here are a few tricks Continue reading...
Here are a few tricks Continue reading...
Monday, February 21, 2011
"Mom Job" Discussion Group… Right Here in Susan Ireland's Job Lounge
Are you a mom with a career? A mom who wants a career but can't find the time to squeeze it into your life? Or a mom who needs to earn a paycheck and stay at home with the kids?
Meet Garla Smith, creator of Smart Moms and Smart Moms Online. Garla is going to lead a discussion group here in Susan Ireland's Job Lounge. She'll answer your questions, and from time to time post a short article. So get ready to post your comments and follow the thread as moms discuss "mom jobs," the art of juggling employment and motherhood.
There was a time when it was a given that a woman, once married, would stay home and care for her husband, home and children. At some point we women realized we also were bright, intelligent beings with amazing capabilities to contribute to “real” careers, and we began entering the work force in droves. Who said we couldn’t have it all?
The reality, as many women today are discovering, is that while you can have “both” a career and a family, “all” is an overstatement. Working a traditional full-time job means handing the care and raising of your child to someone else (and often being too exhausted and harried to enjoy the times when you are together.)
The alternative – staying at home full-time with the children — is often unrealistic financially. Even for those women lucky enough to have the funds to do so, the subsequent loss of intellectual stimulation, the independence of a paycheck and daily social interaction can be surprisingly devastating.
What then is the happy medium? The Holy Grail of modern motherhood: A “mom job.” What is a mom job? It can be different things to different people, but common denominators include workplace and scheduling flexibility, part-time hours, the option to work from home part or all of the time, and leeway to take time off for sick children or school activities.
This blog will address the pursuit of the mom job, how to search for one, how to secure one, even how to convert your existing job into a mom job.
Post your questions here and let’s see how we can help each other find that infamous mom job.
Meet Garla Smith, creator of Smart Moms and Smart Moms Online. Garla is going to lead a discussion group here in Susan Ireland's Job Lounge. She'll answer your questions, and from time to time post a short article. So get ready to post your comments and follow the thread as moms discuss "mom jobs," the art of juggling employment and motherhood.
The Desperate Need for a "Mom Job"
by Garla Smith
There was a time when it was a given that a woman, once married, would stay home and care for her husband, home and children. At some point we women realized we also were bright, intelligent beings with amazing capabilities to contribute to “real” careers, and we began entering the work force in droves. Who said we couldn’t have it all?
The reality, as many women today are discovering, is that while you can have “both” a career and a family, “all” is an overstatement. Working a traditional full-time job means handing the care and raising of your child to someone else (and often being too exhausted and harried to enjoy the times when you are together.)
The alternative – staying at home full-time with the children — is often unrealistic financially. Even for those women lucky enough to have the funds to do so, the subsequent loss of intellectual stimulation, the independence of a paycheck and daily social interaction can be surprisingly devastating.
What then is the happy medium? The Holy Grail of modern motherhood: A “mom job.” What is a mom job? It can be different things to different people, but common denominators include workplace and scheduling flexibility, part-time hours, the option to work from home part or all of the time, and leeway to take time off for sick children or school activities.
This blog will address the pursuit of the mom job, how to search for one, how to secure one, even how to convert your existing job into a mom job.
Post your questions here and let’s see how we can help each other find that infamous mom job.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
How to Translate Your Military Experience for a Civilian Job Search
Transitioning from the military to the civilian world is a little like moving to a new country where a different language is spoken. Most civilian employers don't understand military terminology. That means you have to do some translating if you're making a military-to-civilian career change.
In this video, Patra Frame suggests four ways to learn job-related civilian terminology. Notice these activities are also excellent ways to find a civilian job!
How to Translate Military Terminology to Civilian Speak
On your resume and in job interviews, it's your job to convey the value you offer a civilian employer -- and you need to do that in civilian-speak, not military lingo.In this video, Patra Frame suggests four ways to learn job-related civilian terminology. Notice these activities are also excellent ways to find a civilian job!
- Search for common civilian terminology. Read through 10-20 job posts in your line of work to see what terms are commonly used.
- Read industry-specific articles, both in print and online, to get up to date on what's happening and how to articulate it.
- Attend professional events such as job fairs and civilian classes in your line of work. Listen to how others are describing their civilian work functions. Join in the conversation using those terms.
- Participate in social networking sites such as LinkedIn where you can discuss work-related topics with civilian professionals.
Monday, June 21, 2010
1-Year Plan for Successful Military-to-Civilian Transition
If you're one year from being discharged or retiring from the U.S. Military, you need to start planning your transition back to civilian employment now, according to human resources professional and military veteran, Patra Frame.
Patra says that in today's job market, it typically takes three months to get a job that pays $30,000 a year, and an additional two months for every $10,000 more per year. So the sooner you start preparing for your job search, the better.
In a nutshell, here's what should be in your plan (more details in the video below):
My question to Patra:
There are thousands of U.S. Military men and women in combat. How realistic is it for them to implement a one-year transition plan? How would they do that with all their current responsibilities and geographic constraints?
Patra's answer:
Thanks for asking about the timeline, Susan. I know full well that many military folks will not have the time over the last year of their service to focus a lot of effort on their job search. Some who are stationed overseas also will not have the opportunity to check out local chapters of professional groups which might assist in their transition because there are no such options.
But too many people who could create a plan and dedicate 30-60 minutes each week for 6-12 months don't. They expect to be able to do the whole job search in their last few months or weeks of active duty.
And these folks usually have difficulty when they leave the service - they do not know their options, they don't understand the civilian terminology, they don't know how to most effectively find a place to succeed. Many are not financially or emotionally prepared to go without work for months. Some take jobs that are a poor matches and bounce around a lot in the first few years -- which then creates other problems. And this is not rank-dependent. I have talked with retiring colonels who are as confused and frustrated as any one-term E-4!
But as a vet who made her own share of mistakes in transition, I made this video hoping our current military folks might get some ideas that would be helpful in making a successful transition.
To those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Military:
On behalf of Patra and Susan Ireland's Job Lounge, thank you for your service. We wish you a speedy and successful transition into civilian employment.
Patra says that in today's job market, it typically takes three months to get a job that pays $30,000 a year, and an additional two months for every $10,000 more per year. So the sooner you start preparing for your job search, the better.
1-Year Military-to-Civilian Transition Plan
In a nutshell, here's what should be in your plan (more details in the video below):
- Figure out your career choices. What do you love to do that would translate into a job?
- Know the requirements for that kind of work. Get qualified if you're not already, and start looking for job openings.
- Use civilian lingo. Translate military language into terms that are understood in your new occupation, and even within the company where you want to work.
- Build your network. Join online social media sites and attend in-person professional association meetings and job fairs where you can network.
Is a 1-Year Plan Realistic for Those in Combat?
My question to Patra:
There are thousands of U.S. Military men and women in combat. How realistic is it for them to implement a one-year transition plan? How would they do that with all their current responsibilities and geographic constraints?
Patra's answer:
Thanks for asking about the timeline, Susan. I know full well that many military folks will not have the time over the last year of their service to focus a lot of effort on their job search. Some who are stationed overseas also will not have the opportunity to check out local chapters of professional groups which might assist in their transition because there are no such options.
But too many people who could create a plan and dedicate 30-60 minutes each week for 6-12 months don't. They expect to be able to do the whole job search in their last few months or weeks of active duty.
And these folks usually have difficulty when they leave the service - they do not know their options, they don't understand the civilian terminology, they don't know how to most effectively find a place to succeed. Many are not financially or emotionally prepared to go without work for months. Some take jobs that are a poor matches and bounce around a lot in the first few years -- which then creates other problems. And this is not rank-dependent. I have talked with retiring colonels who are as confused and frustrated as any one-term E-4!
But as a vet who made her own share of mistakes in transition, I made this video hoping our current military folks might get some ideas that would be helpful in making a successful transition.
To those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Military:
On behalf of Patra and Susan Ireland's Job Lounge, thank you for your service. We wish you a speedy and successful transition into civilian employment.
Monday, March 15, 2010
6 Steps to a Green Career in Your Neck of the Woods
Are you looking for work in the green job market? If so, this advice by Carol McClelland could give you the insight you need to conduct an effective green job search.
Carol is author of the new book, Green Careers for Dummies. Today she's "appearing" here in The Job Lounge as the first stop on her Virtual Book Tour. While she's here, she'll:
So, leave your question as a comment after this post, and Carol will respond. Maybe you'll be the lucky winner of Green Careers for Dummies !
Searching for a Green Job
by Carol McClelland
To find a job you must know where to focus your job search efforts, specifically which companies to target. If you are searching for a traditional position, it’s likely you’ll be able to rely on common wisdom to discover which companies in your target industry are located in your geographic region.
If you are searching for a green job, however, the way forward may not be as clear. You may not know, right off the top of your head, which green companies are in your geographic area or which green companies hire people with your skills. Just because you don’t know about these companies doesn’t mean they aren’t out there.
Use these detective strategies to find green companies in your area. As you find green companies, create two lists: one for green companies in general and one for green companies within your target industry.
Carol is author of the new book, Green Careers for Dummies. Today she's "appearing" here in The Job Lounge as the first stop on her Virtual Book Tour. While she's here, she'll:
- Answer questions left by readers (as comments to this post).
- Give away a signed copy of her book to the person who asks the best question by the end of Monday, March 15th.
- Offer a $5 savings on all Green Careers for Dummies books. There's a link on the Blog Tour page for a mail-in rebate.
So, leave your question as a comment after this post, and Carol will respond. Maybe you'll be the lucky winner of Green Careers for Dummies !
Searching for a Green Job
by Carol McClelland
To find a job you must know where to focus your job search efforts, specifically which companies to target. If you are searching for a traditional position, it’s likely you’ll be able to rely on common wisdom to discover which companies in your target industry are located in your geographic region.
If you are searching for a green job, however, the way forward may not be as clear. You may not know, right off the top of your head, which green companies are in your geographic area or which green companies hire people with your skills. Just because you don’t know about these companies doesn’t mean they aren’t out there.
Use these detective strategies to find green companies in your area. As you find green companies, create two lists: one for green companies in general and one for green companies within your target industry.
- Watch your local media – regional papers, local papers, and business journals – for articles about companies making efforts to green their business practices or green start up companies receiving funding.
- Keep an eye out for upcoming Earth Day events and green festivals. In addition to attending these events to meet others who share your interests and values, pay attention to which companies are sponsoring and exhibiting at these events. Research them before the event so that you are ready to take advantage of opportunities to talk with them if you meet them in person.
- Scan green job boards. Although job boards only advertise a fraction of existing job openings, job boards can be used as a valuable research tool. By reading job postings you can gain a deeper understanding of what job titles exist, what skills are required, and which companies are in a hiring mode. Take what you learn to target the companies in your area that you want to research.
- Know the associations that support your target green industry. Professional, trade, and industry associations are a treasure trove of information. On the national associations’ Web sites, search for information about regional associations for your area. In addition to getting up-to-date information about the status of your industry or profession and training requirements, you can often find lists of company members you can use to build your lists.
- Follow the money. Stimulus money, venture capital, and investments by large multi-national companies are flowing. The question is where is the money landing in your region?
A. Enter your zip code in the Recovery.gov map to find out what companies/projects have gotten funding through the stimulus package. Keep watching this site; new grants, contracts, and loans are being announced and distributed on a regular basis and will continue through 2012.
B. Do a search on venture capitalists in your area. What companies are they funding? Although start up companies may take a while to reach the point where they are hiring, knowing which companies are growing will help you focus your networking and job search efforts.
C. Make note of any green rebates, tax credits, or financing programs in your area. When these programs start they generally create demand for new services, which can stimulate job growth in your area. - Search for companies online. Combine search terms for your target green industry with your region (i.e. “solar companies” + “your region”) to pull up a list of green companies on your search engine. (Replace solar with your target green industry.) Explore the results to see what companies you want to add to your list.
As you begin to target specific green companies, set up Google alerts to get news updates on your target companies. Knowing about media mentions and press releases will alert you to what’s happening within the company. Although some of the news may not seem relevant to you personally, stick with it. Sometimes corporate level news will give you an insight into the direction the company is taking, a change in management, the addition of a new green initiative or division, or news that the company is landing more contracts.
Having this level of information will help you in your networking conversations, in your interviews, and later as an employee.
Carol McClelland, PhD, is the author of Green Careers For Dummies and the Founder and Executive Director of Green Career Central, a full-service online resource center dedicated to providing career guidance, coaching, and resources to clarify the ever-evolving world of green career possibilities for professionals, students, and career counselors.
Carol will be stopping by The Job Lounge throughout the day on March 15th to answer your questions. Leave a comment and she'll respond!
Monday, January 25, 2010
Uncle Sam Wants You! Do You Want a Government Job?
Every year federal, state, county, and city governments hire thousands of people. Is there a government career opportunity waiting for you?
The list of jobs is long and varied, ranging from:
Whatever the reason, you might like to explore working in government. Most positions offer decent pay and good benefits. If you want a government job, check out Government Jobs for links to job openings and info on how to apply. For state, country, and local government applications, go directly to their websites.
Also note: You don't have to be a government employee to work on a government project. You could get a job with a private company that holds a government contract.
More on how to get a government job:
The list of jobs is long and varied, ranging from:
- Highly specialized management, research, and engineering positions to manual labor
- Administrative office workers to jobs in beautiful public parks
- Jobs in national security to social service positions helping poverty-stricken young children.
Whatever the reason, you might like to explore working in government. Most positions offer decent pay and good benefits. If you want a government job, check out Government Jobs for links to job openings and info on how to apply. For state, country, and local government applications, go directly to their websites.
Also note: You don't have to be a government employee to work on a government project. You could get a job with a private company that holds a government contract.
More on how to get a government job:
Follow the Stimulus Money to a Job
Stimulus Package and Your Job Search
Exiting Military Job Transition
Monday, September 28, 2009
Extreme Career Change: Self-Employment to Employment
Many small business owners face difficult times when the economy heads south. In hopes of regaining financial security, some look for employment that provides regular paychecks. The self-employment-to-employment career change is sometimes difficult, not only because jobs are scarce, but because it's not easy to have a boss once you've been top dog.
Here are five tips for making a smooth transition from self-employment to employment.
Here are five tips for making a smooth transition from self-employment to employment.
- Seek a position where you can either work independently (for example, as an outside sales rep), or where you can be a leader (for example, project manager).
- Privately, give yourself a timeline for working at your new job (for example, two years), with the understanding that during that time, you'll give 100 percent of your professional energy to your employer. Your commitment (even if you don't tell your employer about your timeline) will help you be an earnest employee, knowing you haven't committed to be at that job forever. Meanwhile, the timeline will hold open the possibility of going back into business for yourself, should you decide you want to in the future.
- Stay in touch with your former business network if possible, being careful not to cross any ethical lines with your new employer (for example, don't take on clients for your new employer with the expectation of taking them with you, should you decide to go back to self-employment).
- If you're closing your small business and looking for employment, ask one of your former customers if she would serve as a reference to your potential employer.
- On the resume for your new role as an employee, avoid referring to yourself as owner of your former company. Use a job title such as General Manager or President – something that demonstrates your skills without saying, "I'm going to be hard to manage because I like being the captain of any ship I'm on."
Financial security is hard to find in this economy. If making a career change from self-employment to employment is what you need to do, check out these posts on handling self-employment in the work history section of your resume:
From Self-Employment to Employment
Listing Self-Employment on Resume
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Gang Member Touched by an Angel
Remember the TV show, Touched by an Angel? This could have been the basis for one of the show's inspiring stories: an unassuming phlebotomist encourages a gang member to make a big career change.
My colleague, Maureen Nelson, is a career counselor who recently sent me the following story. I'm posting it in The Job Lounge with Maureen's permission.
Thank you, Maureen, for allowing me to post this and for your other inspiring stories in the Job Lounge.
My colleague, Maureen Nelson, is a career counselor who recently sent me the following story. I'm posting it in The Job Lounge with Maureen's permission.
I had a client in my office a few months ago who was a laid-off phlebotomist. After we talked for a few minutes, it was clear to me that she was an "old soul," though a young woman. (Urban Dictionary: A spiritual person who is wise beyond their years.) I asked her if she'd ever considered becoming a counselor because she seemed a natural. She said people had said that to her before but she didn't feel she needed to do that, because she counseled plenty in her current profession. I asked her to give me an example. She has given me permission to share her story here. She told me about all the times she'd taken blood from skinheads, covered with white supremacist tattoos, and about one in particular:
"He was kind of embarrassed about those tattoos and said he wasn't affiliated with the gang anymore. They kind of feel guilty when someone who is black helps them. I was the only one who could get his vein, and he ended up becoming my patient. At first he was skeptical, but we made friends quickly after I got him on the first draw. He saw that I was good and I treated him like a person, whereas my co-workers may have been rude to him. I told him that I understood sometimes we make bad choices due to influences around us."
She then went on to say that she gave him a referral to a place where he could get gang-related tattoos removed for free. She also suggested that he consider counseling people who want to leave gang life. Later on, she ran into him on the college campus where they were both taking classes. He was thrilled to see her and showed off his tattoo-free skin. He said he'd turned his life around, was getting a degree in sociology and had planned on becoming a counselor to help others.
She said, "I think he'll be pretty good at it, because he was eventually able to talk about his past."
They ran into each other again a few months later. This time he had a friend in tow, one who had just left the gang and whom he had referred to the tattoo-removal program. Both were grateful to her.
She said, "I'm pretty proud of him, and it gives me joy to see I had that kind of influence over somebody. I made him think, gave him hope in a new future, and now he has a way out."
Thank you, Maureen, for allowing me to post this and for your other inspiring stories in the Job Lounge.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Did You Tweak Your Career?
I'm working on the fifth edition of The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Perfect Resume. The chapter I'm writing at the moment is called Tweaking Your Career. Do you have a story (or know someone who has a one) of how you did one of the following to change or adjust your career? If so, please email me. (All names are kept anonymous in the book.)
Here are the situations I'd like to hear about:
Here are the situations I'd like to hear about:
- You went from in-house employment to consulting (aka, freelancing, contracting).
- You went back to school to get a degree in a new field, and then got a job in that new field.
- You got vocational training to get on track with a new line of work (even if it was only a slight change from what you were doing previously).
- You took an internship to gain experience in an occupation; after the internship you continued on that career path.
- You made a career change by taking a volunteer position, which somehow helped you get started in your new career.
- You tweaked your career to take advantage of the global economy.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Entrepreneurial Mom Returns to Workforce
Question
I've been a stay at home for approximately 2-1/2 years. I went back to work for a short time (3 months) about 1-1/2 years ago. During that time, I started a cake baking business. Re-entering the workforce is now a must for me.
Having worked for 3 months in 2007, how do I explain the gap from 2006-2007 and then from 2007-2009? Other gaps in my work history are present as well, however, this is the longest gap. How do I put my best foot forward in explaining the 3-year gap?
Answer
by Garla Smith, Smart Moms®, LLC, smart-moms.net and smart-moms-online.com
Dear Cake Business Entrepreneur,
Congratulations on your decision to return to the workforce. In actuality you have already done the best thing for your resume by launching your cake baking business along with the other tasks I am sure you have been doing while at home. These tasks might include volunteer work, PTA support, tutoring in the classroom, or coordinating activities for the school band.
I see two options. One would be to show your “Entrepreneur – Owner of Cake Baking Business” for the longest period (if you indeed kept it running for that period). Then have another line entry for your work as a Mom such as “Volunteer, PTA Vice-President, and Full-Time Parent” for the shorter period.
The other option would be to consider lumping the 2006 – 2009 under one job heading but have several job titles such as Entrepreneur, Volunteer, Full-Time Parent.
I would use years to show time frame but no months. When you make it to the interview you can explain in further detail if asked.
You were not idle while you were at home. The key now is to communicate that in your resume. What skills did you acquire in all of the positions (paid on unpaid) that are valuable to employers? Perhaps bookkeeping, marketing, management, or administration.
Employers are changing their perceptions that moms are simply at home doing nothing. Many women are mastering organizational skills and communication techniques. They're applying financial strategies and cost savings that are valuable in the work place. They are able to multi-task, be extremely efficient in completing tasks, and bring a level of professionalism to a business that a person just entering the job market may not yet possess. It's important to communicate that in your cover letter and resume; and be ready to provide examples in the interview. Your examples should demonstrate real benefits that resulted from the use of your skills.
Best of luck to you in your job search!
I've been a stay at home for approximately 2-1/2 years. I went back to work for a short time (3 months) about 1-1/2 years ago. During that time, I started a cake baking business. Re-entering the workforce is now a must for me.
Having worked for 3 months in 2007, how do I explain the gap from 2006-2007 and then from 2007-2009? Other gaps in my work history are present as well, however, this is the longest gap. How do I put my best foot forward in explaining the 3-year gap?
Answer
by Garla Smith, Smart Moms®, LLC, smart-moms.net and smart-moms-online.com
Dear Cake Business Entrepreneur,
Congratulations on your decision to return to the workforce. In actuality you have already done the best thing for your resume by launching your cake baking business along with the other tasks I am sure you have been doing while at home. These tasks might include volunteer work, PTA support, tutoring in the classroom, or coordinating activities for the school band.
I see two options. One would be to show your “Entrepreneur – Owner of Cake Baking Business” for the longest period (if you indeed kept it running for that period). Then have another line entry for your work as a Mom such as “Volunteer, PTA Vice-President, and Full-Time Parent” for the shorter period.
The other option would be to consider lumping the 2006 – 2009 under one job heading but have several job titles such as Entrepreneur, Volunteer, Full-Time Parent.
I would use years to show time frame but no months. When you make it to the interview you can explain in further detail if asked.
You were not idle while you were at home. The key now is to communicate that in your resume. What skills did you acquire in all of the positions (paid on unpaid) that are valuable to employers? Perhaps bookkeeping, marketing, management, or administration.
Employers are changing their perceptions that moms are simply at home doing nothing. Many women are mastering organizational skills and communication techniques. They're applying financial strategies and cost savings that are valuable in the work place. They are able to multi-task, be extremely efficient in completing tasks, and bring a level of professionalism to a business that a person just entering the job market may not yet possess. It's important to communicate that in your cover letter and resume; and be ready to provide examples in the interview. Your examples should demonstrate real benefits that resulted from the use of your skills.
Best of luck to you in your job search!
Friday, March 27, 2009
How to Handle Being Over-Qualified on Resume for a Career Change
Question
I was laid off in September from my job of seven years as a news editor, a path I am not interested in continuing. I have an Associate of Arts degree in graphic design, however I don't want to seek a job in that field as it's very competitive and prone to layoffs at this time.
I see this as an opportunity to start a path to a new career. How can I structure my resume for an internship or entry-level job in a new career field without looking over-qualified?
Answer
First, you need to decide what new career you want to pursue. Once you know that, you'll be ready to write your resume. For the sake of this answer, let's say you want to become a political lobbyist for an environmental group. For that objective, I suggest you create a combination resume.
In your job objective statement, do not use the term "entry-level;" simply say "A position." (For example: A position in environmental advocacy.) Doing this will help decrease the disparity between the elevated job title you held most recently and the new one you seek.
In your Summary of Qualifications section, emphasize the transferable skills you bring to the new position. For example:
Under Education, mention your AA degree, and any classwork that's particularly relevant to your job objective.
Good luck with your career shift!
I was laid off in September from my job of seven years as a news editor, a path I am not interested in continuing. I have an Associate of Arts degree in graphic design, however I don't want to seek a job in that field as it's very competitive and prone to layoffs at this time.
I see this as an opportunity to start a path to a new career. How can I structure my resume for an internship or entry-level job in a new career field without looking over-qualified?
Answer
First, you need to decide what new career you want to pursue. Once you know that, you'll be ready to write your resume. For the sake of this answer, let's say you want to become a political lobbyist for an environmental group. For that objective, I suggest you create a combination resume.
In your job objective statement, do not use the term "entry-level;" simply say "A position." (For example: A position in environmental advocacy.) Doing this will help decrease the disparity between the elevated job title you held most recently and the new one you seek.
In your Summary of Qualifications section, emphasize the transferable skills you bring to the new position. For example:
- Eager to bring my writing and media relations skills to the political arena as an environmental advocate.
- Managed a team of eight editors and four production staff to publish daily newspaper with circulation of 200,000.
- As news team member, wrote pieces on wide range to topics including rain forests, glacier meltdowns, and carbon emissions.
Under Education, mention your AA degree, and any classwork that's particularly relevant to your job objective.
Good luck with your career shift!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Laid Off... What Now?
If you've been laid off recently, this might be an opportunity to make a change in your career path. Instead of launching immediately into a job search for the same type of work you just left, take time to figure out whether or not this line of work is still what you want, and if it's a realistic way of making a living in today's economy. In other words, take a time-out for career management.
One approach to career management is to think of yourself as the CEO of your company -- your career. Look to your advisers (your friends and family members) for their opinions about what career choices might be good for you. Hire a consultant -- a career counselor. Gather information by searching online and conducting informational interviews with members of your professional and personal network.
Lay all your options on the table, including the possibility of staying in your current profession, industry, and location. Then you can make a decision and a "business plan" for how you'll go about getting that new job.
One approach to career management is to think of yourself as the CEO of your company -- your career. Look to your advisers (your friends and family members) for their opinions about what career choices might be good for you. Hire a consultant -- a career counselor. Gather information by searching online and conducting informational interviews with members of your professional and personal network.
Lay all your options on the table, including the possibility of staying in your current profession, industry, and location. Then you can make a decision and a "business plan" for how you'll go about getting that new job.
Friday, August 01, 2008
Informational Interviewing
There may be job openings of interest to you that are not listed online or in newspapers, so reach beyond your keyboard for your job search. Ask friends and colleagues for in-person informational interviews. An informational interview is not a job interview -- it's a meeting with someone to ask them questions about their line of work to see if their occupation is one you might like to pursue. You could also conduct an informational interview with someone to ask if they know of job openings in your current line of work. Unlike a job interview, you are the one asking the questions. If informational interviewing is new to you, read What's an Informational Interview? to learn how to prepare for one.
Informational interviews help you explore new career options and job opportunities, while building your professional network.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
20 Jobs That Are Much Better or Worse Than You Think
I thought this article, 20 Jobs that Are Much Better or Worse Than You Think, by HR World was fun, especially since the number one worst job is President of the United States. Here's the start of the article:
If you're looking for a career change or are just interested in what other kinds of jobs are out there, start investigating the job market by taking a look at this list of 20 jobs that are either much better or much worse than you might have thought. Don't end up in an even more stressful, unrewarding job than the one you just left because you were harboring false expectations about the life a doctor or a CEO supposedly leads. At the same time, try searching outside of the box by giving freelancing or tattoo artistry a chance. You just might discover your true calling. (continue)
Monday, October 22, 2007
Pharmaceuticals to Home Health and Back
Question
I recently left a very coveted job in the Pharmaceutical industry to sell Home Health. I was lured by a very attractive compensation and a very eager friend who wanted me to work with her. After just three months, I find myself missing Pharmaceuticals and realizing that the grass is definitly not greener. I have an upcoming phone interview and hopefully a few face-to-face interviews with a Pharmaceutical company and need help explaining why I left and now just 3 months later want to come back. I have pasted below what I have formulated and I would really appreciate your opinion and help! Thank you in advance.
-Kim
Job Loungers, Kim needs your help. What do you advise her to say or do to make a smooth transition back into her former industry? Click "comments" and give her your two cents.
I recently left a very coveted job in the Pharmaceutical industry to sell Home Health. I was lured by a very attractive compensation and a very eager friend who wanted me to work with her. After just three months, I find myself missing Pharmaceuticals and realizing that the grass is definitly not greener. I have an upcoming phone interview and hopefully a few face-to-face interviews with a Pharmaceutical company and need help explaining why I left and now just 3 months later want to come back. I have pasted below what I have formulated and I would really appreciate your opinion and help! Thank you in advance.
Why did you leave? And why do you want to come back?
My proposed answer:
I have always been motivated by challenge and I embrace the concept that change often leads to improvement. With that being said, I wanted to experience selling in a different business arena and felt I was being offered an opportunity that was not available to me otherwise. It did not take long to realize that my heart is in Pharmaceuticals. The Home Health business model is not as strong as Pharmaceuticals and the Pharmaceuticals way of selling is where I excel. The opportunity to get back into Pharmaceuticals is one that I can now fully embrace and make a long and successful career out of.
-Kim
Job Loungers, Kim needs your help. What do you advise her to say or do to make a smooth transition back into her former industry? Click "comments" and give her your two cents.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
A New Career at 52
Question
I've been a software developer for 13 years and just got laid off after only 3 months with the company. I am getting older (52) and don't have the energy I once had to work 50-60 hours a week. I would like to try a different career path and do something a little less stressful. Continue reading...
I've been a software developer for 13 years and just got laid off after only 3 months with the company. I am getting older (52) and don't have the energy I once had to work 50-60 hours a week. I would like to try a different career path and do something a little less stressful. Continue reading...
Monday, August 06, 2007
Dealing in Las Vegas
Question
I am a 48-year-young female, with empty nest syndrome. I have had my own cleaning service company off and on for around 25 years and I am darn good at it. I have letters from previous customers and other various kinds of employment dating back to 1984.
I have ventured off to seek other occupations and have had relocate a few times. I enjoyed many of my other jobs however, I have always returned to cleaning so I can work around my family’s schedule and many needs. Let’s not forget to mention the pay isn't bad either. But now my kids are grown, my husband’s health issues are much better, and although I am not old, my body is saying, “No more cleaning.”
I have had many employees and at times I have had no one but me. Dealing with my customers’ and employees’ lives and problems can get tiresome. Although I am good at my business, I don't want to bring it home every night anymore. So I am ready to work for someone else for a change.
In addition to being a business owner/supervisor/bookkeeper/ payroll clerk/sales rep/PR person/inventory manager/ purchaser/instructor/ scheduler/problem solver and multi-tasker for my business, I have also been a party planner/server/cleaner-upper, vacation home security monitor/PC maintenance consultant/interior decorator.
Before I started my business, I was going to college, taking nursing classes. Although I was not able to finish that, I am a certified Nursing Tech (which includes advanced First Aide and CPR). I have worked in a few hospitals. I liked it but there was not enough pay, and I got too emotional when patients passed on.
I was a real estate agent for about a year and I did well at it. I was in the top ten listers of our company in my first 6 months, but I didn't much like it because it involved too much wasted unpaid time and stress.
I was a security guard at Caesars Tahoe. I loved that job. I mostly guarded the entertainers, VIPs, and the entertainment stages. But I also did emergency first aide and money fills to the gaming tables. I would still be doing that but cleaning wages were triple what security was paying. At the time, I was the only wage earner in the family.
Lately I have become certified as a dealer for about 10 different kinds of poker. So my husband and I have decided to go for it and move to Las Vegas. He is on social security income so he's ready to go somewhere different. The catch: I have been to two auditions here in Washington state and I have been petrified. (I am totally out of my element).
So what do I do about a resume? What work experience should I emphasize? What if I can't get past my fear of auditioning? I went into this occupation for the good tips ('cause I am good at PR). That's the plan but I am open to any possibilities.
I expect to be working for many years to come and my body won't hold up cleaning that long and I have to build up my retirement fund. So which hat should I wear now? What occupation should I aim for? I like the entertainment area (I think).
--- Charlie
Answer
by Townsend Belisle, Professional Inspirer
Dear Charlie,
You've an impressive background - what a full life you've lived in such short years! You are the person anyone might want to take on any adventure as you can do so many things!
Let me make my thoughts more readable by dividing them between your next line of work versus your resume.
If becoming a professional dealer is your next calling, the best thing you can do is build your confidence. And that comes with practice and focus.
Confidence comes from proof. Proof that you know what you're doing. And what better way to know what you are doing than practice, practice, practice. Perhaps you might consider dealing cards all day, for a few days: play with your family, show some tricks to your friends - perhaps even teach a game or two to the waitress at the diner. You'll find the more you have to do it in front of others, the more comfortable you'll be - and when you're comfortable, that trait will show in an audition. That's exactly what the casinos want to hire: comfortable, confident people.
Regarding your resume, you definitely should create a list of your experiences that best apply to the job you're pursuing. From what I understand of the industry (gambling) and job (a dealer), casinos first want to see that you have the skill set (dealing accurately, quickly and dependably), and that you have the personality (you're nice and cater to clients while not showing any favoritism) and that you're clean (no significant criminal or drug record). A resume is nice but may not be the most critical component in getting hired.
The essence of that resume, then, should exhibit each of the qualities above (nice, dependable and clean) and is minimal: one page -- tease them into wanting to meet you because you're such a perfect match! Don't give them too much info, as you may be giving them an excuse to say "no."
Regarding the work itself -- what you would like to do for work is very important. You clearly have some sense about both your strengths and what things you enjoy. Focus on those things -- perhaps especially on your personality traits (organized, detail-oriented, personable, for example) and think about what job positions might best suit you. You've come to terms that you want decent pay and a good return on your hours but you've also learned that there is certain work to which you don't want to return.
As another line of thought (and a safety net in case something doesn't pan out), a few other ideas come to mind, especially given you're on your way to Vegas. Join a cleaning company but pitch yourself as a former business owner who deserves to be in management (supervising others, maintaining contact with clients). As a person who loves people and being out of an office, perhaps you'd enjoy becoming a concierge or a tour guide for one of the resorts -- you'd quickly get to know the area and could utilize all sorts of your "jackie-of-all-trades" experience.
One more thought - a staple book when reconsidering careers is Do What You Are by Paul D. Tieger and Barbara Barron. I might suggest you check it out from the library to give yourself a better sense of what you'd like to do next.
Good luck -- it'll be an adventure!
"Know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em." - Kenny Rogers
Townsend Belisle spent a year (1994-1995) consulting in the casino industry, working in the entertainment (dealers of dance), promotions (dealers of surprises) and advertising (dealers of incentives) departments. You couldn't pay him enough to clean the casino floor. However, he'd love to try his hand at being a security guard and for this, he's drinking his milk.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
You might find Overcoming Stage Fright – Here’s What to Do by Christine Kane useful. Christine gives nine steps for overcoming performance anxiety, which she developed from personal experience.
I am a 48-year-young female, with empty nest syndrome. I have had my own cleaning service company off and on for around 25 years and I am darn good at it. I have letters from previous customers and other various kinds of employment dating back to 1984.
I have ventured off to seek other occupations and have had relocate a few times. I enjoyed many of my other jobs however, I have always returned to cleaning so I can work around my family’s schedule and many needs. Let’s not forget to mention the pay isn't bad either. But now my kids are grown, my husband’s health issues are much better, and although I am not old, my body is saying, “No more cleaning.”
I have had many employees and at times I have had no one but me. Dealing with my customers’ and employees’ lives and problems can get tiresome. Although I am good at my business, I don't want to bring it home every night anymore. So I am ready to work for someone else for a change.
In addition to being a business owner/supervisor/bookkeeper/ payroll clerk/sales rep/PR person/inventory manager/ purchaser/instructor/ scheduler/problem solver and multi-tasker for my business, I have also been a party planner/server/cleaner-upper, vacation home security monitor/PC maintenance consultant/interior decorator.
Before I started my business, I was going to college, taking nursing classes. Although I was not able to finish that, I am a certified Nursing Tech (which includes advanced First Aide and CPR). I have worked in a few hospitals. I liked it but there was not enough pay, and I got too emotional when patients passed on.
I was a real estate agent for about a year and I did well at it. I was in the top ten listers of our company in my first 6 months, but I didn't much like it because it involved too much wasted unpaid time and stress.
I was a security guard at Caesars Tahoe. I loved that job. I mostly guarded the entertainers, VIPs, and the entertainment stages. But I also did emergency first aide and money fills to the gaming tables. I would still be doing that but cleaning wages were triple what security was paying. At the time, I was the only wage earner in the family.
Lately I have become certified as a dealer for about 10 different kinds of poker. So my husband and I have decided to go for it and move to Las Vegas. He is on social security income so he's ready to go somewhere different. The catch: I have been to two auditions here in Washington state and I have been petrified. (I am totally out of my element).
So what do I do about a resume? What work experience should I emphasize? What if I can't get past my fear of auditioning? I went into this occupation for the good tips ('cause I am good at PR). That's the plan but I am open to any possibilities.
I expect to be working for many years to come and my body won't hold up cleaning that long and I have to build up my retirement fund. So which hat should I wear now? What occupation should I aim for? I like the entertainment area (I think).
--- Charlie
Answer
by Townsend Belisle, Professional Inspirer
Dear Charlie,
You've an impressive background - what a full life you've lived in such short years! You are the person anyone might want to take on any adventure as you can do so many things!
Let me make my thoughts more readable by dividing them between your next line of work versus your resume.
If becoming a professional dealer is your next calling, the best thing you can do is build your confidence. And that comes with practice and focus.
Confidence comes from proof. Proof that you know what you're doing. And what better way to know what you are doing than practice, practice, practice. Perhaps you might consider dealing cards all day, for a few days: play with your family, show some tricks to your friends - perhaps even teach a game or two to the waitress at the diner. You'll find the more you have to do it in front of others, the more comfortable you'll be - and when you're comfortable, that trait will show in an audition. That's exactly what the casinos want to hire: comfortable, confident people.
Regarding your resume, you definitely should create a list of your experiences that best apply to the job you're pursuing. From what I understand of the industry (gambling) and job (a dealer), casinos first want to see that you have the skill set (dealing accurately, quickly and dependably), and that you have the personality (you're nice and cater to clients while not showing any favoritism) and that you're clean (no significant criminal or drug record). A resume is nice but may not be the most critical component in getting hired.
The essence of that resume, then, should exhibit each of the qualities above (nice, dependable and clean) and is minimal: one page -- tease them into wanting to meet you because you're such a perfect match! Don't give them too much info, as you may be giving them an excuse to say "no."
Regarding the work itself -- what you would like to do for work is very important. You clearly have some sense about both your strengths and what things you enjoy. Focus on those things -- perhaps especially on your personality traits (organized, detail-oriented, personable, for example) and think about what job positions might best suit you. You've come to terms that you want decent pay and a good return on your hours but you've also learned that there is certain work to which you don't want to return.
As another line of thought (and a safety net in case something doesn't pan out), a few other ideas come to mind, especially given you're on your way to Vegas. Join a cleaning company but pitch yourself as a former business owner who deserves to be in management (supervising others, maintaining contact with clients). As a person who loves people and being out of an office, perhaps you'd enjoy becoming a concierge or a tour guide for one of the resorts -- you'd quickly get to know the area and could utilize all sorts of your "jackie-of-all-trades" experience.
One more thought - a staple book when reconsidering careers is Do What You Are by Paul D. Tieger and Barbara Barron. I might suggest you check it out from the library to give yourself a better sense of what you'd like to do next.
Good luck -- it'll be an adventure!
"Know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em." - Kenny Rogers
Townsend Belisle spent a year (1994-1995) consulting in the casino industry, working in the entertainment (dealers of dance), promotions (dealers of surprises) and advertising (dealers of incentives) departments. You couldn't pay him enough to clean the casino floor. However, he'd love to try his hand at being a security guard and for this, he's drinking his milk.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
You might find Overcoming Stage Fright – Here’s What to Do by Christine Kane useful. Christine gives nine steps for overcoming performance anxiety, which she developed from personal experience.
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