I just read Nick Corcodilos’ new article entitled, “Rude Employers: Yahoo Fires CEO Carol Bartz, phones it in”, from his “Ask the Headhunter” blog. The article quickly reminds us that rude and disingenuous companies will be remembered for their poor treatment of employees. It also sends a strong message to job seekers considering working for such a company. Because of the internet, Yahoo’s classless actions will not be soon forgotten.

This rude behavior will remembered, and is something for job seekers especially, to keep in mind while searching for their ideal job. When you find a company you think you’d like to work for, take time to notice how they treat you, and how employees treat each other. If you see smiles, hear laughter, and are treated warmly while interviewing with them, this may be a good sign.

When researching companies, try to talk with employees or past employees. This way you can get a better feel for the culture and climate of the company before you say yes to an interview. Does the company’s management strive to maintain courteous and effective teams and does the company treat its’ management well? Your research will hopefully alert you to companies that may not be so nice to work for.

This is also a good time to take note of how you treat those you interact with during your job search. The longer a job search takes, the less patient candidates can become, so keep you manners in check. You don’t want to be remembered for your poor manners or worse, miss out on opportunities because of your attitude or actions.

Manners that used to be second nature are sadly becoming unimportant to some people and companies. You are going to be at work and with your coworkers for at least 40 hours each week, that’s 1/3 of your life. So make sure you take the time to find a place to work that is pleasant and treats you well.

Sunday was the start of NASCAR’s 2011 season at the newly paved Daytona 500 speedway. It ended up being an especially exciting opener for the fans. The weather was beautiful, the track was fast and the race was riddled with caution flags, crashes, and spin outs including a 15 car pile up.

Most of the mishaps were due to the pairing up of cars using drafting to gain advantage and speed. Drafting is when two race cars drive so close to each other that they are almost touching bumper to bumper. The leader is pushed while the vehicle in back is pulled letting both cars go faster, with just inches between them. Each team of drafters takes a turn running in the lead position for maximum use of their vehicles.

Watching how these drivers, often from different racing teams and different automotive manufacturers, work together to help each other and themselves reminded me of how effective it is for job seekers to work together.

Like the drivers who provided information and assistance to other drivers, job seekers can benefit tremendously by having a partner. Your partner doesn’t have to be in the same field or even same industry just one that is in the same job search race as you. They are great for accountability, support and keeping you motivated, and can often help you with your search by sharing do’s and don’ts of their own search.

It was pretty neat to hear the drivers talking with each other as they planned their strategies (while driving 150+ mph)and to see the notable acceleration of speed they gained by working together. And the results? Rookie driver Trevor Bayne who turned just 20 years old on Saturday was the winner of the 53^rd Daytona 500. An underdog for sure, but so gracious and thankful (and happy); it was great to see.

So, if you are plugging along in your job search alone and learning and doing everything yourself, maybe it’s time to find a partner or a group that is working toward the same goals. You can contact someone you know that is also looking for work or join a local networking group (in person or online) to find a partner.

Sharing information, victories, rejections, and fears will help you and others to realize you are not alone and your situation is not uncommon. It is will also give you tips, pointers and maybe the one piece of information you need to be successful more quickly in your own job search.

Shine on Job Seekers!

I’ll be volunteering at tomorrow’s Job Fair sponsored by EmploymentGuide.com. Always look forward to meeting candidates, sharing information and answering career, resume and job search questions.  If you are planning to attend be sure to stop by and say Hi!

I’m helping out at a Career Fair tomorrow and want to welcome anyone within driving distance of Southeast Michigan to join me at the event. I’ll be there providing resume reviews, answering questions and strategizing with job seekers – if you attend please stop by and say Hi! The information is below, hope to see you there.

EmploymentGuide.com in cooperation with AARP and WiserWorker.com are sponsoring and participating in this event. AARP is offering Branding Workshops and more than 50 employers are expected to participate. Bring lots of resumes, professional attire and be ready to smile!

Wednesday, August 25^th

9:00 am to 1:30 pm

Southfield Civic “Center” Pavilion

26000 Evergreen Rd.

Southfield, MI 48076

Hope to see you there!

I took off work a few days ago to take my mother-in-law to a doctor’s appointment. The appointment went well and after visiting for a while back at her house I headed home. We live about 50 minutes apart and being such a beautiful sunny day I decided to take a different route home. I almost immediately found myself sitting in traffic and thought I had made a big mistake!

A break finally came and I was able to make the last turn that would get me out of town and on the highway heading home. But before I had a chance to even pick up speed I saw several bicycle riders in the road. It was more than the average 2 or 3 riders you might see together. In wonder I watched as dozens and dozens of riders came out of a church parking lot.

Stopped again but this time for the riders, I was amazed to see a hearse come out and pass in front of me to maneuver into the oncoming lane. Like little ants the riders began following the hearse down the road to the cemetery. It was heart warming to see so many people riding in what I assumed was a sign of respect for a fellow rider.

On the way home I kept thinking about the deceased rider. How old was he? What had caused his departure? And most importantly, what had this rider done to deserve such respect? Most riders were in true riding gear but there were some that had older, non-racing bikes and even an older couple riding a tandem bike in dress clothes. It was pretty clear the mourners were following on bikes because of who the person he was and not what he did for a living. It dawned on me that those bikers were his network.

I thought about the job seekers I work with every day that are concerned with finding a new job but are afraid or uncomfortable to do the formal network thing to build their contacts. Often when I talk with them I hear, because of their fear, they’ve done nothing. This man had built a huge following and network through a sport he was obviously passionate about.

Job seekers can do the same. You don’t have to attend formal networking events if they make you too uncomfortable. Networking doesn’t have to be so serious. You can go out and get involved in a sport, hobby, volunteer programs, charities, church activities, town or city event and activities or some other area that interests you.

Make networking fun! When you feel comfortable you can express your passion for your work and the activities you’re committing to and you will shine, be noticed and be remembered. You don’t need to follow a specific script or spout out your elevator speech to everyone you meet. Instead, enjoy who you are with, learn about them. If they ask about you then let them know what you do and your situation without dwelling or putting pressure on others to do something.

The good you do and how you treated others will be remembered much longer than an elevator pitch. Those that remember you because of who you are will go out of their way to help you if they can. Networking is about meeting and helping others and letting others see how great you are as a person.

I’m so thankful I chose to take the alternate route home and got stuck in traffic. I never would have seen such a remarkable procession for someone who was obviously a remarkable person.

_________

Added to this article: I saw a story about this man on the news that night. He was someone who had physical impairments but had used his love of cycling to raise more than $200,000 over the past few years for various charities, while riding with only one arm and one leg. More than 200 riders came from as far away as Kansas (I’m in Michigan) to attend his funeral and ride with the hearse to show respect for their friend who had touched so many lives.

Yesterday’s career fair through the local (Detroit) Fox affiliate which teamed up with Employment Guide and AARP, brought in a unique mix of professionals that have been laid off or let go and searching for something new. A common thread throughout the day was the desperate response of “I’ll take anything, I just need a job”, when asked what they were looking for.

After learning of their targeted area of search and asking about their strategies, it became clear that many job seekers are still not taking advantage of the tools and techniques that successfully assist in finding jobs faster. What I heard from many job seekers was that they had dabbled in networking but didn’t really feel comfortable talking with strangers or opening up to friends and family; they didn’t want to be a burden.

The second thing I heard repeatedly was that the candidates had heard of LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and other online networking platforms, and some had even joined the communities, but most were not utilizing them effectively in their job search.

I wanted to stand on the table I was working from and shout to the job seekers that they needed to indeed step out of their comfort zone and what they have done in past job searches, and embrace new technology and communication mediums if they wanted to find a job. If not, I’d see them back here at the next Career Fair!

But, before I made a spectacle of myself, I reminded myself that all people are created differently and while some thrive in the job search environment others need more of a helping hand. That is where I come in and why I participate in Career Fairs.

If you are one of the career fair attending job seekers that still feel awkward and nervous about trying new search techniques, remember you’re not alone. Many job seekers are uncomfortable just like you.

It is OK to feel unsure, uncomfortable and self-confident, but do something anyway! The more you step out and seek new avenues for employment, the easier it will become. You can not afford to quit plus, trying new techniques will keep you from getting bored, and it will increase your circle of contacts and opportunities tremendously!

Shine On Job Seekers!

Living the dream is what the Olympians of the 2010 Winter Olympics are doing during the next couple of weeks. But the dream for them was born 5, 10 or even 15 years ago and has been achieved through countless hours and years of hard work, failure, tears, injury, smiles, joy, and triumph. Each Olympian has their own unique story but they all have one common goal — to be the best they can be.

I think that is why we are so drawn to the Olympics. It is a chance to see what true devotion and unfailing pursuit looks like. Most of us don’t ever experience that level of passion or commitment to a goal, and watching and rooting for them somehow brings us closer to feeling that dedication.

So to the job seekers watching the Olympics, are you seeing the fruits of your hard work? If not are you getting rejuvenated and motivated watching these athletes give totally to their goals? With that same dire determination to succeed is how you should be attacking your job search.

Are you an Olympian job seeker?

Do you spend hours a day perfecting your technique and improving your skills? Are you reaching out to find new ways to increase your performance? Do you have a dream job that serves as your goal and something you focus on daily?

The Olympics are only once every four years and still their dream drives them and keeps them moving forward. These athletes visualize living the dream and winning the gold. They stay inspired by  associating with those that have succeeded before them and they continue to move forward. Job seekers need this same intensity, they need to work everyday to move forward, research companies, garner new contacts and stay in constant contact with others succeeding in what you are trying to do.

Watch the Olympics and listen to the interviews and stories of the athletes and their sacrifices, trails, and ultimate triumph to make it to the Olympics and live their dreams. Use these success stories to fuel your own dreams. Use them  to reestablish your commitment to your own goal and strive to find the success you deserve and to live the dream like a true Olympian!

Lots of exciting things took place for me and ResumeWonders in 2009. I didn’t realize just how much had been achieved until I started this blog post. It was a wrap up of the year in preparation of 2010 goals and provided a surprising dose of pride when I realize all that I have achieved. Here is how my year looked.

• The business and my clientele grew for the 6^th consecutive year even with such a volatile economy.

• Earned 3-nominations for the 2009 TORI (Toast of Resume Industry) awards and won a 2^nd Place Award in the Career Change category.

• I spoke at several networking and workshop events providing job seekers with information, tricks, and tips on resume development, and job search strategies including social media venues.

• Was interviewed several times for different media programs developed by Channel 2 and Murray Feldman.

• With a little anticipation I assisted in training and leading in a 12 week, Dan Miller, 48 Days to Work You Love, career program. I assisted my friend Chad, a financial coach at PennyCoach.com and it turned out to be very rewarding for me as well as the job seekers.

• Attended the CDI Career Summit conference in October held in Orlando.

• Grew my local client base and hopefully helped many job seekers by participating in several local career fairs. Here I spoke with hundreds of job seekers educating them in job search strategies, reviewing their resumes and many times just listening to their fears at career fairs sponsored by Fox 2 Detroit.

• Was part of a collective resume writing group interviewed by The Recruiting Animal (@animal) on his blogtalkradio.com/animal internet radio program.

• Attended several webinars, teleseminars seminars and workshops to improve my business tactics, and my writing, speaking, selling skills.

• Moved my blog to www.resumewonders.com/blog which is a Word Press blog and have worked hard although not always successfully, to post new articles on it a couple of times a week.

• I’ve also made some great contacts, partnerships, and new friends during the year on Twitter and LinkedIn – both are invaluable to me and should be to you too.

Looking back over the year I realize I’ve accomplished a great deal in my professional life and my business. It gets me excited to think of the possibilities for 2010. Some of the achievements were planned goals but many were opportunities I was ready to take advantage of.

Many might be wondering, how you could write a list of accomplishments when you’ve lost your job. Well, have you volunteered elsewhere, donated time, gotten closer with kids, spouse or relatives? Have you taken up a hobby or a new health program? Have you networked and grown your contact list? Have you mastered Monster, Twitter, and LinkedIn?

Are you getting up every day and making an effort to find a paying job that will enhance your career, life and self-worth? Have you gone back to school? Did you fix the fence or read a few helpful networking books? Have you updated your resume, researched companies and sent out contact letters? All of these are achievements to be proud of yourself and written on your list of 2009 achievements.

Writing down your achievements will help to direct your new goals for 2010. What still needs to be done? What can you improve upon? What do you want to happen in your professional or personal life. Tomorrow’s goals start with today’s thoughts. So get thinking!

Although the economy remains weak as we round out the year, I believe it will start to start making a comeback during the end of the first quarter of 2010. You don’t want to miss the big wave when it arrives so make sure you are prepared and ready with your resume arsenal, a targeted job search strategy, and the determination and motivation to make it happen. Whether planned or unexpected if you prepare now,  you will be ready to take advantage of the wave of opportunity when it hits.

Shine On Job seekers!

Try Something New to Take the Insanity out of Your Job Search

I’ve gone to the same mall area shopping for Christmas presents three times in the last couple of weeks. Each time I have gone, I come home less and less satisfied with the amount of purchases I made. I just can’t seem to find what I am looking for at the stores available in that location. With just a week left until Christmas and with more than a few presents left to purchase, I decided to change my game plan.

What is the old Einstein saying; “insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results”. Well I decided to stir things up, not go insane and try and new shopping venue.

Wow! Was I excited to find new stores that had new ideas and gifts I had been looking for! I even went in to some of the same stores as the other location but they had a different variety of items to choose from and again was successful.

When the day of shopping was through, I had successfully crossed off every item on my list. I drove home thinking of how thankful I was to not have decided to give my usual stomping ground another try. Some times you’ve got to move away from routine to find the best deals.

Before you go insane in your job search, make sure to shake up your routine every once in a while. Take stock in the results of your efforts. If something isn’t working for you – try something new. Just because your friend was wildly successful on a specific LinkedIn group or networking event doesn’t mean you will immediately get the same results. Take hold of what Einstein said and try something else.

For example, if you are only working with job boards get involved in online groups in LinkedIn or one of the really great job search groups on Ning or Yahoo Groups. If you tend to visit more than network at networking groups try a new one, and develop a new elevator speech that accentuates your strengths and personal brand. Check out industry associations, newspapers, groups, or volunteer somewhere but try something new.

The most important thing to remember is to be creative and open to new ideas or suggestions, find what works for you and keep moving forward. Even with the Holiday season in full swing, now is still a good time to be setting up new year meetings and filling that pipeline with contacts and networking activities that target and work towards your goals. Keep your goals close and review them often to keep you focused and motivated. Save yourself the grief of driving yourself crazy by not trying new strategies, techniques, activities or groups to help you find the job you deserve.

I just returned from the Career Directors International (CDI) conference last night. What a great time seeing old colleagues and meeting new ones. A truly enjoyable and informative conference.

For some of the presenters, including Jason Alba, Barbara Safani, and Louise Kursmark, their underlying theme was the importance of using Web 2.0 business and social networks to increase visibility. My job seeker take away from these speakers was that being visible on these networks is vital in today’s economy and with today’s available technology. Job seekers can effectively use this job search strategy to develop their visibility for recruiters, hiring managers and decision makers.

Creating keyword and content rich profiles and becoming a proactive participant on networking sites such as Linkedin.com, Facebook.com and Twitter.com are a great way to start. However, being active on these networks is only effective if you use these sites as tools to build your brand and value proposition.

Keep communications professional to quickly increase your brand by including articles, opinions, and helpful site, book, blog and speaker links and recommendations. It is an effective way to strengthen your online presence and make your first impression positive and make you memorable for the right reasons.