Are you an older job-seeker who is currently looking for work? If so, you have likely faced your share of roadblocks and unfortunate stereotypes based upon your age alone. Yet, despite the discouraging experiences you may have encountered, a post-midlife job search can bring undeniable rewards: renewed energy and vigour, a sense of purpose and a fresh start. That is … if you take the time to review your needs and wants, consider your options and follow your inner guidance to a fulfilling new job. The years past midlife deepens us in many regards. We seek to enrich our lives, spend our time wi ..read more

Certain personality traits are prerequisites for climbing the ‘proverbial’ corporate ladder. Those in the C-suite or senior management don’t have exclusivity on these traits. These personality traits are crucial to building your brand in whatever industry you choose. Loyalty This may seem like a no brainer, but exhibiting loyalty to the corporation for which you work is important. I don’t mean that you have to stay there for your entire career! You’ll build your brand if you remain loyal to your employer while there, and afterwards. I’ve reviewed articles recently denouncing loyalty – the ton ..read more

Recently this topic has, due to recent events, become more and more relevant.  Videoconferencing is necessary for multiple scenarios and being able to do so well via video is crucial.  No matter what people say, interviewing via video is just not the same as being there.  You do not usually see yourself during a face-to-face interview! To have a successful interview, recognizing video “etiquette” will help you be (and feel) prepared. Before the Interview – Turn around and look at what is behind you – does it present the image you want to share? Less is more. – Let others in you ..read more

The recruiter selection process involves multiple phases (Note: Process and pacing often vary based on the market demand, stage and the size of the organization): Set-Up Phase Clarifying Needs Recruiters work to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the competencies and experience the client looks for.  In addition, they focus on the company goals, values, styles, and culture to understand the “type” of candidate who would be successful. Long Lists. A firm spends the first week or two of a search creating a “long list” of 100-plus candidates. The search team sifts throug ..read more

Years ago, a resume was constructed to promote skills. The format was to list employer details, a detailed list of the position’s tasks/duties, and education regardless of the position applied for. Simple, right? It didn’t matter (or prove) if an applicant could do the listed tasks/duties well… The role of the resume has changed. Formatting is always important. Plus, the initial review must include pertinent information – your work history, position titles, and tenure. These headings catch the attention of the reader but, ultimately, the content will determine the time spent on the document ..read more

“Practice makes perfect”.  This phrase can be applied to a lot of situations and, when it comes to reviewing a resume, it is quite true. After reviewing innumerable resumes and profiles, recruiters and hiring managers are proficient at finding pertinent information when skimmed quickly.  Business Insider reported in 2012 that the average is 6-seconds to review a resume for job-fit – I’ve seen other reports expand that skim time to 15 seconds. Business Insider shows the initial review of a resume includes: current title and company, current position start and end dates, previous tit ..read more

There are so many career path options to follow. If you think about it, a job considered normal today didn’t exist 20 years ago (examples). Some know the career path they want and have each step planned out – others fall into their careers through opportunities that arise – and some still do not know yet what they want to do. During your working years, you will, no doubt, have had times when you had a big career decision to make. How do you make the choice? Gut instinct? It is wise to consider your options carefully. While your mentors and coaches will have some advice, there are some questio ..read more

We all know how important compatibility is in our relationships. I remember a blind date years ago that was arranged by the guys at work – it did not take me long to recognize there was not any compatibility.  Though well-intentioned – the date was not a success. Yet, one month later I met my husband and we are still going strong 30 years later. While a career is not a marriage, it is a partnership of sorts.  We do spend 40+/- hours a week at work.  That is a lot of time to be with people with whom you are not compatible. Even a successful blind date moves forward into determin ..read more

Getting invited to an interview for a position you have always wanted is exciting. But before you start the happy dance, are you sure that you are prepared to put your best foot forward? There are plenty of ways you could foul up the interview process, but there are some crucial ones that turn off the Hiring Manager immediately. Here is what you need to take care of: Don’t Just Talk About Yourself Organizations want to know if you are a team player. Also, they are interested to know if the job interests you and have you taken time to understand the job requirements. Your qualifications might ..read more

The terms “Mental Health” and “Mental Illness” are often used interchangeably but they do refer to different things. A Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) article defines the two (January 13, 2020). Mental illness affects day-to-day functioning. It is attached to anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depressive disorder. The CMHA states mental health is a state of well-being as life is meant to be lived, not just survived.  Therefore, a healthy mental state gives a sense of purpose. It is the ability to thrive despite the ongoing highs and lows of life.  Thus ..read more