Archive for the ‘Careers & Education’ Category
Question: I’ve recently turned 30 and realized I have absolutely no idea what I want to do in terms of a career. I’ve had some different jobs in various sectors and have earned two degrees, but I seem to know more about what I don’t want to do than what I do want to do. Where should I begin?
Answer: Accept your situation. You are 30 and you do not have a stable career.
KEY QUESTIONS:
There is nothing wrong with you. You are normal. There is a great story about a little boy sleeping in his bed. His parents are downstairs reading the newspaper and they hear a loud bang from his room. They rush upstairs to find their son on the floor having fallen out of bed. They ask him: “I guess I was not far enough into it.”
You must be far enough into your own life in order to find what it is you need to be happy and successful. Have you been spending your time worrying about what other people need? What do you need? Do you have the courage to admit it? Your question, “Where should be my next career decision?” The No. 1 way to answer this question is by reconnecting with anything you love in your life. What stirs your heart? Let’s get back to basics here.
LOVE EXERCISE
One of my mentors, Raymond Aaron, taught me this exercise. Have a friend ask you the question “What do you love?” at least 10 times very fast. Give quick answers without thinking. This will allow you to access a new source of motivation in your life.
SWEET SPOT
Then take these loves and compare them to your skills. When you have an exact match between your love and skill, you have found your sweet spot. This is where you must focus your next career decision.
NEXT STEP
Write down your 10 greatest skills. Do the love exercise and then compare. Then book two information meetings with people in that industry.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question:
I have been in my current role as an operations manager for five years. I’m thinking of changing industries, but I can’t make up my mind. How should I go about making a decision?
Answer:
There is a good and bad stress. Bad stress makes it impossible for you to make an informed decision. Good stress motivates you to find solutions.
RESOURCEFUL
Being resourceful means you must first decide to be solution focused. Focus on what you are hoping to achieve by making a change.
DATA
When making a decision, you must identify at least three options. It is impossible to come up with three viable options when you have not done sufficient research. Book three information interviews in the next three weeks with a VP of operations and ask to meet to tap into their expertise and get an opinion on possible career direction.
PERFECTIONISM
A perfectionist is afraid of making a mistake. The best advice was given by Lois Bruce from Procter & Gamble: “You will never have all the data. There comes a time where you just have to make a decision.” Remember that the only failure is the failure to decide.
HEAD/HEART
Head: If you make decisions with your head, then identify and weigh the pros and cons for all options. Finally, mitigate the risk of each con. Based on this data you make a decision.
Heart: What does your gut tell you? Do you have the courage to listen to the answer?
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Two weeks ago, we put out a call to our readers to draft a career-branding statement. The best entry would win one free hour of breakthrough coaching with myself.
Chris Toda is our proud winner and I would like to analyze her entry as a learning opportunity for you.
I have the ability to see the truth for what it is and my intuitive nature enables me to help others who may not even know their own reality. I am genuinely interested in helping my staff reach their goals and they know that I have their best interests in mind. I am passionate about motivation people and instilling some of the valuable life lessons that I learn early on in life, continually explaining that it is never too late to learn life lessons. I am a completely positive individual who is relentless on her path to instill “fun” into the workplace. They accept my quirky nature and some things I say get to be known as “Chrisoms.” They have expressed that they look forward to my weekly memo. Articles like the ones you write make their way into our workplace via me! -Chris Toda, Quality Control Supervisor, Vancouver Police Department
Structurally, her statement possesses the three critical components of a strong brand. She demonstrates authenticity, passion and dependability. Words like “genuinely interested,” “passionate,” “positive individual,” “relentless on her path” and “they look forward to her memos” all indicate her commitment to her career brand.
Most critically, notice how her brand demonstrate how they add value to her colleagues. It is clear that her statement is focused on the benefits she brings to others.
Of course, when your brand is centred on supporting your internal and external customers, you will as well.
As the saying goes “You get everything you want, if you just help other people get what they want.” The Vancouver Police Department is lucky to have such a great contributor in their organization.
NEXT STEP
Always remember: When you are developing your brand, focus on how your talents and gifts are adding value to other people’s lives.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question:
I just got hired at my first real job coming out of school and I was looking for some pointers on how to make sure my first six months are successful.
Answer:
Many students enter the workforce with great credentials but don’t realize their potential. The goal is to ensure you will be seen as a go-to person who can be trusted. Apply these four techniques and watch your rise to the top.
STEAK
The biggest mistake people make in their career progression is expecting a promotion before they are good at their current job. I remember the story of a successful finacier whos first job was to photocopy documents. He was committed to being the best photocopier in the company and ended up receiving a very significant promotion in three months.
SIZZLE
Self-promotion is not natural for everyone but you must learn to share successes with your boss. They won;t always know what you’re doing — keep them informed.
PROTOCOL
The most important person you will want to develop a relationship with will be your boss. Do not go above their head unless they are aware of it and have their approval.
PROBLEM SOLVE
Whenever you identify a problem and you are discussing it with your boss, always offer a solution and ask for input. By doing this, you will build trust with your boss and eventually, you will be given more responsibilities.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question:
I am having difficulty differentiating myself at my work. I keep hearing people talk about career branding and I am curious to learn more about it. How do I implement it in my life?
Answer:
It’s not enough to simply allow your actions to speak for themselves.
You must build a brand and tell people about it. What is your brand? If you don’t know it and are not communicating it, others are doing it for you.
Incorporate the following three concepts to take control of the image you are projecting so that you will ensure you are positioned strongly to stand out in your career advancement.
AUTHENTIC
The most inspiring leaders in this work have great self-awareness.
Self-awareness comes from being honest with yourself around your skills, interests and values. Being authentic is about having your insides equal your outsides. In other words, what do you stand for?
But I am warning you, if you take an honest look at yourself and don’t see anything interesting, it is because you have gone blind to what makes you special.
It can take a year to appreciate your gifts. Start now.
I promise you, it is worthwhile.
PASSION
William Wallace in the classic movie Braveheart said: “Everyone dies, not everyone lives.”
It’s enough to give you shivers, isn’t it? Do you want to really live your life? I promise you this, when you are engaged in work you love, your life will change.
All change is challenging even when it is good.
Never forget that as you pursue your passions you will have to make difficult decisions.
Change, by definition is the death of the old and the birth of the new. Both hurt but the payoff is huge.
DEPENDABLE
Your brand is ultimately established when you can be depended upon to perform it consistently over time.
If you can’t see yourself being a certain way on a daily basis, then you are missing the third ingredient.
What behaviour can you be counted on to do daily?
CONTEST
Develop your career brand by writing one paragraph explaining your skills, interest, values, and passions.
Remember that it must be authentic and depedable! E-mail us your statement.
The best answer wins a free hour of breakthrough coaching.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question
I have been unhappy with the last three companies. People talk a lot about fit with a company, but I seem to get it wrong all the time. What should I look for when joining an organization.
Answer
I will base my answer on a great workshop I recently attended by Christof Appel, an expert on achieving great company fits.
FLEXIBILITY
How much flexibility do you have in your work? Is your boss down your back or do you have some space? Do you have thr efreedom to showcase some of your unique skills with special projects? Are you given new responsibilities?
MONEY
Making lots of money is not the biggest issue for people. The issue is one of feeling valued. Money is an exchange of energy. If you don’t think you are being paid enough, you have two choices: Ask for more money, or work less. The feeling of being underpaid builds resentmen. You must deal with this issue fast. Companies have also been known to pay its employees more when asked.
FUN
Do you enjoy people you work with? This is essential. Mental health studies have shown supportive and fun work environments are critical in dealing with normal every day stressors.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question:
I’m 24, and just graduated with a B.A in Visual Arts. I’m interested in working for the film as a set decorator. I don’t know any of the “right people” to help get me connected to the industry and I don’t have any set decorating work experience. Any thoughts or advice?
Answer:
Two films producers told me exactly how to break into the industry. I will tell you what they said, and add three more pieces of advice.
PRODUCER ADVICE
Visit film/television sets, politely approach your target and say: “I have a degree in Visual Arts and love the kind of work you do. Can I help out in any way to be part of what you are doing?” You can also do the same by calling the production company.
FIND THE RIGHT PEOPLE
You will love this. Visit your local library and get a list of all the films currently being shot in the city. Best of all, included are the names of the people in charge. You will want to talk to the art director, who is the person responsible for designing and supervising construction or all sets and scenery.
For every 10 sets you visit or production companies you call, you will have a chance to speak to two or three decision makers.
NETWORKING
Immediately become a student/apprentice member of the Set Decorators Society of America. Attend all their events. Also, book an information meeting with the director of membership and ask for recommendations on who you could speak to in the city. On the website is a member directory. This is gold. Call a member and ask politely if they could spare 10 to 15 minutes so that you could tap into their expertise to get a better understanding of the industry.
so here’s your challenge: Call or visit 10 sets. Join the society and conduct an information meeting with them. Complete this by November 10 at noon. Let me know how it goes.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question
I would like you to address the current threat of a recession. Sometimes I feel like we will all lose our jobs and it will be the end. Can you shed some light on these uncertain economic times?
Answer
There are many things I do not know. But there are three things I know for sure.
COMMUNICATE
The latest advice for bosses is for them to meet with their staff to address the current economic outlook and how it may affect the business. If your boss has not already done so, then book a meeting with him/her and ask. “For my peace of mind, could you tell me if our department will be impacted by the economic slowdown?”
SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITY
Historians laugh at us because they are the only ones who have a good enough memory to remember the economy is a cycle.
Tough economic times are normal. When times are good, most people don’t make necessary changes to their careers. Take this opportunity to ask yourself if you love your work. Whenever someone loses a job, I always say: “Congratulations!” These are opportunities of a lifetime to explore your heart’s desire. Is your work fulfilling? What changes do you know you need to make?
FIND BALANCE
Difficult economic times reveal our greatest weaknesses. It reveals areas in our life we have neglected. We need these parts to remain resilient as human beings.
Have you been neglecting your family? Have you been working longer hours to avoid a problem at home? Have you not taken sufficient risks to reach out and make new friends? Have you lost your faith in life? have you neglected your community? Do you have the intimate relationship you have been wanting?
You must ask yourself these difficult questions. And you will be a stronger person when you do.
NEXT STEP
Speak to your boss today. Ask yourself what you want and give all your loved ones a hug. Remind yourself that you live in a rich country which is there for you when times are difficult. You are fortunate.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question:
A lot of larger companies now only accept applications online through their “one-mold-fits-all” application system. In that case, how do you set yourself apart?
Answer:
There are three techniques you can apply right now that will ensure you stand out from the crowd.
Content is King
Great online marketers know that fancy websites don’t sell products.
Well written content sells and it is the same for your application. Strong accomplishment statements will ensure you shine.
Use strong verbs, include numbers and explain the actions you took to be successful.
Use keywords
This is a secret — don’t tell anyone.
At the end of your posted resume, type “Keywords:” and beside it list all the “must have” words from the job posting. When the computer does a search for keywords, you will get one hit for including them in your resume, another hit for having them in your cover letter, and a bonus hit for including them at the end.
The more hits the better.
Make a call
When you apply online, you must at the same time call the employer. Do not call Human Resources. HR always tell you to go online, which you have already done.
Call the manager of the department you want to work for and say this: “Hello marketing manager, my name is Mary, I am a marketing specialist with three years experience. The purpose of my call is to arrange a 10-15 minute appointment to discuss employment opportunities. Would Tuesday be convenient, or would Thursday work better?”
Do not refer to the job posting. If the manager asks if you applied online for the position say yes.
And then say you were also interested in meeting with them personally because you are excited about the opportunity. This technique works more often than you could imagine.
Worst case scenario: The manager hangs up and calls HR and asks them to interview you because of your initiative.
Next step:
Develop two accomplishment statements for each work and volunteer experience. Select the top five keywords from the job posting. Apply online. Then immediately call the manager and book a meeting. Seventy percent of employers do not have an HR strategy. Be their strategy by applying polite persistence.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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Question:
I’m 37, and have been in my job for the last eight years. I’m looking into the CMA program and by the time I finish I’ll be roughly 40. At that age, with little managerial experience, what do you think my employment prospects would be?
Answer:
Your employment prospects will be fantastic. Employment growth levels for accountants are above the national average.
Accounting principles and regulations are only getting more complicated due to corporate responsibility. The field of accounting will greatly benefit from this long term trend. That said, never pursue a career because the market is hot — you must love the work as well.
The bad news: You will most likely have to change companies.
You might have what I call SCS (Stale Credentials Syndrome).
No matter how many credentials you get, you are still the person who remained stale for eight years. This label is very hard to break, but to a new employer, you are a CMA with experience in the industry. You get a whole new level of respect.
Your next step is to meet with your current boss to discuss a possible move within the company once you have your CMA.
If you are not endorsed, then it’s time to make a move.
Email your questions to: info@Dr-Career.com. Listen to Career FastTrack “Live” Mondays at 5.30 p.m. on CiTR 101.9 FM or online at citr.ca
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In February 2008, the founder of MPLOYR and MPLOYR Express set out to create a free employment website like