5 Tips for Using LinkedIn Groups for Your Career

5 Tips for Using LinkedIn Groups for Your Career5 Tips for Using LinkedIn Groups for Your Career2Most professionals are familiar with LinkedIn, but many havent yet tapped into a great resource- LinkedIn Groups. This section of the social media network is an excellent resource for professional discussion boards, allowing members to further connect and network. Check out these tips below on how to use LinkedIn Groups for the benefit of your career and job search5 Tips for Using LinkedIn Groups for Your CareerSearch for relevant groupsGo to LinkedIns Group Directory and browse the many groups available to join. Conveniently listed from A to Z, youll find groups from the American Law Society to the Z Analytics Group. Theres also LinkedIn groups specifically for freelancers. Youre sure to find a group that will suit your career interests. For private groups, youll need to send a membership request and wait for approval to join. LinkedIn offers directions for getting started.Look and liste nStudy your selected groups before leaping into the conversation. Take a bit of a cautious approach to become comfortable with the group before you attempt to connect with others. This way, when youre ready to converse, your comments will be intentional and professional. If youre looking for a safe place to practice, the LinkedIn Group is a solid place to start.Read the articlesOftentimes groups will send members content-rich articles that will provide industry-relevant information. unterstellung articles, as well as other posts by the group, will keep you informed on changes and updates related to the group. This is a great way to keep your finger on the pulseBuild relationships within the groupUsing LinkedIn Groups will allow you to make connections with thought leaders within your group. Align yourself with others in the group who could foster your goals, whether those goals are job searching or career betterment.Join the LinkedIn GroupThis should be one of your stops along the L inkedIn Groups path. This group is an excellent resource for job seekers who are interested in flexible job opportunities. We look forward to connecting with you thereReaders, tell us how using LinkedIn Groups has helped your job search and career advancement. Leave a comment and let us knowPhotocredit thinkstockphotos.com

Forget Kindergarten! I Learned About Workplaces From Batman!

Forget Kindergarten I Learned About Workplaces From Batman Forget Kindergarten I Learned About Workplaces From Batman So slide down the Batpole with me, and lets exploreThere Are Villains in Our WorkplacesThere are Jokers in the workplace people who purposely toss obstacles in front of you, hoping youll make bad decisions. Theyve put super glue on the steps of the corporate ladder in hopes of keeping you from climbing while climbing right over youWorse, they are usually there to point the finger AT YOU when things go wrong. Youve been warnedBatman taught me there are Catwomen in our lives or should I say, Catty Women. And Catty Men I learned that these Catty people are out there talking smack about others. They gossip and speak of you in a negative light.Why do they do this? Is it something you represent thatthey cannot have? Is it your brilliance? Your ability to take risks? Is it because you took the honest road? A different road? An unconventional road?Whatever the case, bew are Sadly, these Catty people have nine corporate lives.Remember Mr. Freeze? Hes right there in the corner office. The Mr. Freezes of the workplace are those stone-cold, cold-hearted people who just wont let you into their lives (or offices) no matter how hard you try. They shut you out. Theyre always on the defensive. Theyre guarded. They share nothing personal and usually have limited interpersonal skills.While theyreoften good at their jobs, they can make for a very unhappy workplace when inmanager/leadership roles - especially when they are your manager/leaderLook around right now. Who in your workplace wants to rule and dominate the kingdom? Who expects you to take their word as law of the land? Who believes that your ideas and opinions dont matter? Yes, this is the CorporateKing Tut. King Tut will tell you youre empowered the keyword here being tell. What you actually areis empowered to do thingstheir way Navigating the King becomes a job in itself.Remember the Riddler? How he teased and tormented How he would give clues to keep Batman and the police confused Sadly, there are those in the workplace who think (withholding) information is power. Withholding information is not power it kills employee souls and stops great things from happening.Even today, 50 years later, such characters are walking halls and entering conference rooms across the globe. And for whatever reason, leadership keeps them around at the expense of organizational happiness and productivity.But, Theres Good NewsWe all have a Robin (or two) out there those people who have your back who are with you through it all. They are business partners, mentees, teammates, BFFs, spouses, and coworkers.Is there a Robin in your life? Or two? The ones that look out for you, care for you and want you to succeed? They know your next move and are one step ahead of you,making you look good. They let you teach them while at the same timeoffering you advice even though you sto and scream at times. They veshared youthful wisdom that helps you grow andkeeps you relevant and current.And we all (should) have our version of Batmans utility belt but oursmay not include cans of shark repellent, Batarangs with five-story-high ropes attached, or 6 ft. x 6 ft. bulletproof shields. Still, Batmans utility belt taught me the importance of having and taking advantage of the right available resources.Today, from my utility belt I might pull a bicycle. My bicycle is my place to escape, think, create, and solve problems a process I call Bikestorming. Smartphones have become modern-day utility belts, too They make us more efficient (with productivity tools) and smarter (with knowledge and reading apps).And of course,my beanie cap (uh, my costume?), on which I have built a brand. Its a reminder to go out every day, be who I am, and do the one thing I believe infight the crime of unhappiness in the workplacewhile infusing fun (with a purpose) into as many aspects of the employee experience as poss ibleWhats in your utility belt?Kindergarten, ShmindergartenKindergarten taught me to take a nap. But that campy fun 1960s showtaught me life and business lessons. After reading this, Ihope that you remove or better manage the villainsin your life, stock your utility belt with the right success tools, and surround yourself with lots of Robins.Oh, and if you ever run into me carrying a turkey baster and a package of clay, you can bet your life Im RECESSitating an organization before itneeds to be resuscitated

How to Sign a Cover Letter with Signature Examples

How to Sign a Cover Letter with Signature ExamplesHow to Sign a Cover Letter with Signature ExamplesWhen writing a deckblatt letter to include with your resume, its important to pay attention to every detail, since you only get one chance to make that first impression. So, what exactly should you include in your signature when youre writing your cover letter to apply for a job? It varies, depending on how you apply for the position. The format and information included in your signature changes depending on whether you are mailing, uploading oremailleing your cover letter document. Signing anUploaded or Mailed Cover Letter If youre uploading your cover letter to a job site, your signature will simply include a closing and your full personenname. Place a comma after your close, such asBest, or Sincerely yours,and then put your name on the line below. When youre sending a written letter include a closing, your handwritten signature, and your typed full name. Leave several spaces bet ween the close and your typed name. That way, youll have room for your signature when you print out the letter. Sign using either blue or black ink. For uploaded or mailed cover letters, you do not need to include as much information as you would in an email message, because the heading of your cover letter includes your contact information. For a paper cover letter, use a formal business-style letter format which includes a heading, salutation, the body of the letter, closing, and your signature. Review theseguidelines for what to include in your letter. Signature Block Examples The following examples show how to format your closing and signature, depending on the type of cover letter you are writing Example (mailed letter) Closing,(see sample closings)Handwritten SignatureFirst Name Last Name ExpandExample (signed letter) Best regards,Janet Dolan (Your Signature)Janet Dolan ExpandExample (uploaded or emailed letter) Best regards,Janet Dolan Expand Signatures if Youre Emailin g If you are sending your cover letter or inquiry letter by email, end with a polite sign-off followed by your full name.You do not need to sign a cover letter that is being sent electronically. Write out your full name in the same font as the rest of the letter, and theres no need for italics or a handwriting font. The formatting here is very similar to an uploaded cover letter. However, emails do not contain a header with your phone number or other contact information. Its a good idea to include these details in your closing paragraph or after your typed signature. That makes it easy for the employer or networking contact to get in touch with you. You can also include links to online portfolios, if appropriate, or a link to your professional social media account such as LinkedIn or Twitter. You dont want to make this section too cluttered, however, so restrict yourself to the most relevant information. Heres how to tischset up an email signature, along with more advice on what to include in it and what to leave off. Signature Examples for Emailed Documents When you aresending email cover letters, its important to include contact information so the hiring manager can easily see how to contact you. At the very least, include your name, email address, and phone number. You can also add other, optional information, such as your street address, online portfolio, or social media accounts. Sample Email Signature Regards,Your NameEmailPhone ExpandSample Email Signature With Full Address Best,Your NameStreetCity, StateZip CodeEmailPhone ExpandSample Email Signature With Social Media Handles Sincerely,Your NameEmailPhoneLinkedIn Profile(Optional)???Twitter Account(Optional) ExpandQuick TipDont use your work email address for job searching. Use your personal email account, or set up a unique account to use just for your job hunt. Many free online email services exist, like Gmail and Yahoo mail, that you can use to set up a new email account exclusively for your jo b search. Even though you are using a personal account, choose an email address that looks professional. Your best bet is some variation on first initial, last name (e.g., jdoegmail.com) or first name, last name (janedoegmail.com). Heres how to set up anemail account just for your job search. Tips for Writing a Compelling Cover Letter Get information onhow to write a cover letter, including what to include in your cover letter, cover letter format, targeted cover letters, and cover letter samples and examples.

This is the ultimate guide to workplace gift gifting

This is the ultimate guide to workplace giftstoff giftingThis is the ultimate guide to workplace gift giftingFact You spend more time at work than you do with your loved ones. Also, true you should put just as much thought into your gifts to your co-workers, anfhreres, assistants, and peers as you do in your family and friends. Issue tzu siche are certain boundaries you definitely dont want to cross to keep a level of professionalism and respect. That doesnt mean you cant have fun with your holiday gift - no matter if its for a Secret Santa gift exchange or a white elephant goodie. The trick is in finding the ideal something for everyone you work with day-in and day-out. Since you have many end-of-quarter goals (and year) goals to make, we did the research for you, so you can go out-of-the-box with these clever (yet sentimental) ideasFor your coworker who keeps Starbucks in business. The Welly BottleEvery amtsstube has that girl. You know the one whose desk looks like a Starbucks dr ive-thru by the time the clock strikes 6 p.m. Its a little gross- and perhaps a tad bad for the environment. Not only is Welly Bottle a more sustainable option, but it will also keep zu sich drink cold for 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours. No second run needed.Welly Bottle, $29For your coworker who keeps up with wellness trends.Feel Good Digestive EnzymesOnce the New Year hits, youve got that geschftszimmermate who kicks his or her health into high gear. They try it all - and achieve some of it. This year, perhaps a small stocking stuffer is in order. Instead of going down the Whole30 bandwagon, give them a bottle of 90 capsules thatll help them absorb more nutrients and reduce bloating.MySolluna, $35For your office lunch buddy.Green ChefConsider your favorite work pal to walk to grab lunch with. Theyre fun to chat with, help you make healthy options and provide a refresh for your day. Consider getting a months subscription for him- and for you This way you can spend more time ch atting in the cafeteria, rather than battling the cold. Green Chef, a USDA certified organic meal kit has diet-specific plans such as gluten-free, paleo, and vegetarian, so it can work for anyone.GreenChef, starting at $79 a weekFor the professional who is always freezing. Recycled Grandview PrimaLoft ShortieCommuting in the cold weather is no joke. But working in an office? It can be just as chilly- year round Thats why many professionals keep sweaters, sweatshirts and other layers to remain toasty. This ultra lightweight jacket can multi-task, taking her from work to her workouts to post-work drinks to whatever else the season brings her.Athleta, $148For your office friend who lives in leggings. Lululemon Wunder Under Super High-Rise TightThanks to the millennial generation, there are now several office appropriate ways to wear leggings to work- and your office pal can pull em all off. Her wardrobe begs for a little black legging to match her little black dress. With this one, she can pair it with a tunic or sweater for work and then throw on a tee and sneakers for her post-work spin class.Lululemon, $98For the boss who just nabbed a corner office. The Hotel Collection Candle by Aroma360Reaching an executive level that not only comes with a mighty-fine paycheck, but a corner suite brings plenty of bragging rights and influence. And another thing? The ability to do and decorate as you please, within reason of course. If shes a frequent flier with a flair for luxury, shell love adding this hotel-themed candle to her desk. Inspired by the countrys most-loved hotels, ranging from hotel chains like Marriot to the 1 Hotel in South Beach- these luxe candles will make her feel like shes on vacation even when shes not actually OOO.HotelScents, $60For the assistant who is always stressed AF. Savor Beauty Roll Glow KitOne of the greatest gifts you can give well, anyone, is self-care. This is definitely true for a super-dedicated assistant who somehow manages all of he r work and some of yours, too. This kit allows her to give some TLC and RR at the end of the day, complete with a with a trendy rose quartz roller and raspberry serum.SavorBeauty, $99For the anti-coffee drinker. Just Tea MeWhile most of the office needs coffee ASAP, your workmate is a fan of tea- and only tea. This beautifully-packaged set comes with everything he needs for the perfect cuppa. Turn his productivity pick-me-up into a decadent afternoon treat with this box of goodies including two types of tea, chocolate, handmade all-butter shortbread cookies, and honey sticks.BasKits, $34For your manager who is still a bit old school.Rocketbook EverlastThere are two types of managers in this world Those who use paper and those who rely solely on their computer. Bring your more traditional manager to the modern era with Rocketbook Everlast, a notebook that connects to services like Google Drive, Evernote, and email. Once they upload and save their notes, they can wipe the pages clean and start all over again, creating less waste and more desk space.RocketBook, $34For the networking master. Oliver Premium Leather WalletHe cant pull a business card out of any ole wallet. Not anymore, that is Treat him to his premium leather card case- available in distressed brown leather or black calf leather- to keep all of his credit and business cards in one stylish, organized spot. MoralCode, $46For the solo-entrepreneur. MOOs business cardsThey said this would be the year- and it was Your friend finally branched out and started their own gig, and you couldnt be happier for them. You can help them advance to the next level by giving them a gift card to MOO. With this nice gesture, they can customize business cards that best suit their style or let them take control of their branding. Either way, theyll start off their year in business-ready style.MOO, Starting at $20For those who work-at-home.Follain Essential Experience Aroma Diffuser LampShe doesnt just work at any office - she works at a cool office. Ya know, her living room. Sometimes her desk. Other times her kitchen table. If thats the case, add this natural beech wood and ceramic essential oil diffuser to her desk space. Itll look chic and keep her calm during crunch time.OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAFollain, $60For your mentor. Lon GeorgeTheres a lot of talk about why plants are beneficial in the workplace. But theres another special message they send Thanks for helping me to grow For the mentor who has made an impact on your career, these green beauties from Lon George come in custom ceramic pots thatll catch her eye every time they step foot in her office. And if shes lacking a green thumb, each plant comes with lifetime plant doctor support so she can nurse her new office buddy back to health.LeonAndGeorge, Starting at $109 and up For the standing desk friend. Saucony Guide ISO 2You know what would make his standing desk even better? A pair of marathon-worthy sneakers Whether hes walking around the office or clocking in steps from his apartment to work, the Guide ISO2 sneakers, complete with WRFOAM and EVERUN foam, is as good as it gets.Saucony, $120For the assistant who teaches you a thing or two. Seville Classics AIRLIFT Gas-Spring Standing Desk ConverterIf you have a standing desk, so should your assistant. Or rather, since your assistant suggested a standing desk to help with your aches-and-pains, perhaps getting them their very own is a smart gesture. This easy-to-assemble option, which comes in black, white or walnut, is especially helpful for people with back or neck pain. Plus, if they get tired of standing, they can convert it to a regular desk.Seville, $200For your intern who is definitely getting hired. Mason Market Oxford Gift BoxThese arent your average desk supplies- just like your intern goes above and one. So much so, youre making a case to hire them next year. This curated box of high-quality supplies might give them a little hint, but also make them appe ar as professional on the outside as they are on the inside.MasonAndMarket, $48For your boss who is also a grill boss. Omaha Steaks Delicious Corporate GiftHe runs the office with respect, intelligence and humor. And hey, he does the same at the grill for your annual backyard BBQ, complete with only the finest cuts. Gift him his second-favorite thing to his job with Omaha Steaks. This flavor-packed pack comes with six cuts of meat, including two bacon-wrapped Filet Mignons, two boneless pork chops, and two stuffed sole with scallops and crabmeat. YumOmaha Steaks, $50For the boss who is actually superwoman. Bestowe Gifting The Organized Woman Gift BoxIts incredible how your manager does it all She manages a team, a home, a family and a social life. Make 2019 her most organized- and stress-free- year yet thanks to the leather clutch, key ring, and soothing bath salts in this on-brand gift box.Bestowe Gifting, $95For your friend who went freelance full-time. Chasing Paper x Ban.do Ser ious Business Woman art printTheres no way around it Your best friend is a rockstar. She finally took the plunge and went freelance full-time, managing deadlines, clients and invoices all by her badself. Let her workspace- or at least her living room- represent the serious businesswoman that she is with this fierce and feminine print covered with everything that makes her the inspiration that she is. For brownie points, get it framed.Chasing Paper, starting at $30For the office manager who likes to goof around. Jenga GIANT JS7 Hardwood GameYour office manager isnt a small-minded kind of guy. So when it comes to gift-giving, the bigger, the bigger. Or more so the better of a game, the more in they are. This human-size Jenga game starts at 25 inches high, which will encourage your whole office to think outside the box at your next company party. Plus, it doubles as a great team-building activity.Amazon, $141For the founder who is growing fast. Nespresso with Nespresso Peets Espresso CapsulesYour founder started something cool. And then it got cooler. Now? Its on fire- and the office needs coffee to keep going. But hey, youre trendy, so you shouldnt settle for watered-down, break room coffee. Instead, go in together on an espresso machine with a sampler pack of Peets coffee so that they can fulfill their caffeine needs all day long- without even stepping out of the office. Theyll appreciate having one less eintrag on their to-do list to think about, trust us. Bottoms upBedBathAndBeyond and Peets, $250 and $30, respectivelyFor the office snackerOlympia Provisions Royale SamplerThat person who always seems to be eating, no matter the time of day? They need this. And youll probably want a bit, too. This sampler of 13 salami offerings will take his taste buds to France, Italy, Spain, and Greece. The rest of his body, however, wont go far. Olympia Provisions, $130

Management Skills Resume Tips & Guide

Management Skills Resume Tips & Guide Picking out the best free internet dating software is really a most important obstacle. Employing a to-do list will help to remind you of what should be accomplished. Everyone can demonstrate a lengthy collection of management abilities. Although companies vary in what theyre searching for and what they require, you may use the next information to receive a feeling of what skills you may need to have. If youd like to separate yourself from the huge crowd of highly motivated and extremely intelligent candidates trying to succeed in the investment business, one of the most significant skills youll want to hone is decisiveness. Its essential to include things like the most significant management skills that employers are interested in finding. Some businesses may search for additional abilities, which is the reason why it is very important to read job descriptions carefully. When making preparations for your huge interview, make sure th at you think about others aspects of the skill that you can mention. As stated above, confusing your resume with too many skills is not a great idea. Thus when writing down your job skills take some time to strategize and find out the iabsprache approach to organize them in your resume. Having organizing and planning skills also usually means that youre ready to oversee things and earn order out of chaos. For the reason, management, good or bad, may have a substantial influence on several lives. As with the majority of situations, effective project communication means communicating with the proper people at the proper time and in the proper way. The very best approach would be to figure out the essence of the job. It is possible to find below a list of the greatest skills you may put on your resume based on the sort of job that you are applying for. In addition, there are a few handy ideas to help you craft a successful resume. Review their About Us page and see whether you r soft abilities or attributes are aligned with the organizations core values. Use facts and figures from the particular projects you have been able to show what youve accomplished. A management resume should demonstrate that, whether youre a restaurant manager or an operations manager, you understand the significance of your position. If youre an assistant manager whos seeking to be a shift manager, then youll require a management resume that shows off your value to the company, and a management resume that shows your professional development too. A management cover letter is a really specific sort of resume introduction that has to grab the interest of the hiring manager in order to work. Make certain you are actually listening to what each customer states that is what makes a great bartender great. If youre serious enough to find the job it is wise to employ a professional resume writer to generate the restaurant manager resume for you. A manager is a person with a good dea l of responsibility to his staff and the corporation. Your manager resume clearly needs to concentrate on your precise experience and should not be exceedingly generic. The overall manager is 1 step up the corporate chain from a shop manager. Top Choices of Management Skills Resume Though, its wise to customize the skills in accordance with the job descriptions. Some skills might be relevant while others arent. To put it differently, prove that youve got excellent leadership abilities. In truth, it is quite important to reveal competent communication abilities. The Management Skills Resume Game To end the webpage, take to to bring you to ultimately the table so you are going to want to eradicate it with higher note. If at all possible, personally cover the letter to the individual who will receive and review your resume. If your present cover letter provides the impression that youre timid and inexperienced, and you would like it to sound more like the expert team leader cover letter sample, show the business you mean business by employing strong verbs. A seasoned management cover letter can bring an ordinary salary of around $87,000 each year. The Advantages of Management Skills Resume Project managers need to manage several projects. At the start of a project, its important to come up with a solid comprehension of the projects goals, and the way the many elements will fit together for a prosperous outcome. Start with producing a Business Requirements Analysis, and develop a detailed Project Initiation Document, which covers the fundamental project requirements and outcomes, so that everybody can comprehend the projects goals. Just as you review a project in its completion, make sure you review your own performance, and identify what you could do better next moment. As a product manager, a great deal of your role will involve gathering information from a number of sources to assist you in making better-informed decisions about how to guide and polish your merchandise. If youre asking for a management position, your resume needs to showcase your management-related abilities and experience. My capacity to analyze needs and make unique solutions created to yield a profitable outcome has turned out to be one of my best assets. One of the absolute most important product management skills is the capability to communicate complex information clearly to many distinct audiences. To put it differently, attempt to learn as much as possible regarding the company. The capability of good managers to delegate distinctive responsibilities to employees gives workers a feeling of worth, teamwork, drive, and the chance to learn new skills as each purpose is met. When it has to do with completing work from beginning to end, the worth of clarity and superior communication cant be overstated. Youve got to talk with customers throughout your shift, so make certain you speak loudly and clearly and keep up a positive tone. Top Choice s of Management Skills Resume If you would like your management cover letter to work, then it has to be formatted properly. Your CV or resume is all set. It actually is quite easy to edit the resumes. Sending the incorrect format may be sufficient to receive your application binned.

Resume with No Work Experience - Is it a Scam?

Resume with No Work Experience - Is it a Scam? If you feel as though you are lacking in the work experiences department, make certain youre involved with something else that you may discuss on your resume and in an interview. It is possible to showcase your work history, but in addition fill in more space by talking about your abilities and other knowledge youve got. Stand out from the crowd What youre passing up experience, attempt to produce an impression with the plan of your resume. Adhere to the tips above, and youll have a resume that compensates for the deficiency of knowledge and gets you the interview. Eventually somebody will hire you and youll find that experience. Additionally, its simple to find experience fast for just about any job. Work experiences will supply the info needed by the clients when it comes to the jobs that youve already done and the business that youve been involved with. Possessing no work experience doesnt mean that you are unqualified. I n fact, should you not have any work experience, including internships are vital. If so, then youve got some work experience. In case the experience is relevant then its well worth mentioning. Even in case you have no true work experience, you might have experience from volunteering, school activities, or relevant hobbies that may show employers achievements and transferable skills that satisfy their requirements. Definitions of Resume with No Work Experience An internship is an opportunity to explore different career choices. Most resumes are rejected in the first ten seconds. What the In-Crowd Wont Tell You About Resume with No Work Experience Its not quite as difficult as you may think. Without work its tough to substantiate a usual resume. There are a great deal of opportunities hanging around for the proper candidates, and plenty of possible employees seeking availabilities essential to them. Your work history shows potential employers what type of employee you will be. Everyone that has a work right now has, sooner or later, had a very first job. You may still be selected for work. Finding a job can be difficult for anybody, even a very seasoned professional who has successfully navigated several job changes. Your latest job ought to be written first and the jobs that youve done beforehand follows. Things You Should Know About Resume with No Work Experience Even if one isnt required, its generally a great idea to send a brief cover letter together with your resume. In case you have any part-time work, that will go a ways towards a terrific experience section. The years you worked for a specific company are already listed at the peak of each work entry, so theres no need to reiterate it into a bullet point. For example, if you want to have an event planning job, serve on the yearly gala committee.

I Hadnt Realized I Was Doing It Wrong Until They Told Me

I Hadnt Realized I Was Doing It Wrong Until They Told MeI Hadnt Realized I Was Doing It Wrong Until They Told MeWhen youre networking, ask for a reference, not a job. Heres an easy way to turn dreaded employment networking into deadly effective bondingWhen youre networking, ask for a reference, not a job.Whether youre doing catch-up drinks or grabbing lunch to reconnect, your primary need is to get an ally, not a tally of job listings. Recruiting a helping hand to your search is your goal.So dont ask your college friend if she knows of any jobs for people like you. How would she?And dont ask your boss from two jobs ago if she has the names of any people who are currently looking to hire somebody like you. It puts her on the spot. Uncomfortably.No, instead, ask for a reference. Mention that youre going to be moving on, or youre already looking, or that youre actively out on the street. Let them know the type of positions you are and are not suited for, and what youre hoping to achieve in your next opportunity.And then ask them if it would be OK to use them as a reference when youre at that point of your search.By not putting them on the spot about specific job openings, you reduce the awkwardness inherent in the networking conversation.And by letting them know that you hold them in high enough esteem to potentially use them as a reference, youre actually paying them a compliment.Youre also making it easier for them to say yes, and to feel good about themselves for being a good friend and helping you out with a little favor.All of which means that you have a new buddy in your search - one whos going to be thinking about keeping an eye out for new opportunities for their friend with good taste in references you.Its wins and grins all around.Now, this doesnt work for just any old person you meet on the street. Theres probably a pretty good match between people youd take to lunch and those you could ask to be a reference. So my advice would be to stick to asking th ose you know well enough.The widely offered and deeply wrong advice from the past decade that you should try to extract favors, concessions, names, jobs, and career assistance from people youve only met over the phone is not only useless, it can be counterproductive to your aims by antagonizing your broader network.By making your networking about compliments, youll find it pays dividends.Good luck in the search this weekIm rooting for you.

Reflection can improve your teams performance

Reflection can improve your gruppes wertmiger zuwachsReflection can improve your kollektivs performanceMost of the leaders I work with are masters of multitasking. Their days are filled with meetings, conference calls, client visits and resolving complex problems. In short, they spend their time gulping water from a firehose, with no visible end in sight to the relentless pace.Does this sound familiar?Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and moraInterestingly, there are some leaders who seem to manage this intensity much better than others, particularly those who have made reflection a practice. They seem to mora seamlessly navigate their daily challenges and better leverage knowledge and past experience when doing so.The secret These leaders structure their workweek to include time for introspection, and they promote this practice with their own teams.The process that Lauren has employed si nce becoming the VP of sales in a heavily-regulated healthcare company was developed out of frustration.I was rushing from meeting to meeting on a daily basis, she told me. Most of the time, Id get to the end of the week and realize that Id barely had time to sit down and just think. That concerned me because we were dealing with some particularly challenging accounts and I wasnt sure that wed actually formulated a strategy that would be difference-making. We were clamoring to put out fires, without reflecting on what we were learning.Thats when Lauren instituted a ban on Friday afternoon meetings after 3 p.m. She wanted her team to have space at the end of each week to consider the progress of their projects, review the insights theyd gained from client interactions and plan their objectives for the following week. Team members are encouraged to disconnect from the intense pace for at least 30 minutes and spend that time in a reflective space.We have a lovely campus with walking tr ails, so I actually go outside for a walk during that time, Lauren said. It allows me to become more centered, and somehow I come back feeling less stressed and with more answers.Laurens practice of spending her reflection time outside is supported bystudiesthat indicate that nature improves cognition and mood. Simply put, a walk in the park can improve your mental well-being and allow you to more readily improve your working memory. Its more than just a momentary escape from the office.Researchalso proves that encouraging your team to adopt a reflective process is likely to improve job performance, especially when reflection is coupled with an examination of the strategies employed to solve problems.To capitalize on what science is showing us about the power of reflection, there are four main factors you can use to leverage this process with your teamEstablish the timeCreating space in the week for your team to reflect has a much more meaningful impact when its designed during busi ness hours. Establishing meeting-free zones which are dedicated to reflection time sends a powerful message to your team that you take the practice seriously enough to devote paid hours to it.Simply encouraging your staff to reflect isnt enough, especially in intense, deadline-focused cultures where employees are likely to perceive busyness as the mechanism for achieving success and upward mobility. Defining a time for employees to reflect makes it more socially acceptable to engage in the practice of doing so.Choose the right locationIf youre one of those people who feels better after a walk in the park, its no surprise. Studies show that spending time in nature not only improves mood and reduces anxiety, it also enhances cognition, especially working memory. In Japan, for example, the practice ofshinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a prevalent practice that is part of the countrys national public health program.Being in the presence of trees has been proven to reduce stress hormone production and blood pressure while boosting the immune system - an antidote to the tension created in hard-driving work settings.Teams that work in an urban environment should take advantage of nearby locations that provide exposure to nature. If these are not readily available, consider creating indoor or outdoor spaces with plants and trees, and seek out meeting rooms with natural light, especially those with windows overlooking green space.Structure the processOnce youre in those meeting rooms, how you structure your team meetings can be difference-making for your business. Rather than a staff meeting that includes the typical status updates on projects, structure your meetings to encourage insight sharing. This can be accomplished by including team insights at the end of every meeting agenda when individual team members are encouraged to share key take-aways from the discussion.When individuals know that theyll be asked to offer their insights at the end of a meeting, it enco urages higher order thinking, listening and processing, which naturally builds reflection into your meeting process. Sharing in a team setting also allows the organization to benefit from the teams collective insights and harness them to achieve better outcomes.Apply proven techniquesTechnology is wonderful, and each of us has a preferred digital device. Yet,scienceindicates that going old school has its value, especially when designing a reflective process.To capture your ideas when reflecting, handwriting your notes is so much more effective than typing those ideas into your mobile device or laptop. Journaling by hand allows you to retain conceptual information over a longer time period, enhancing your capacity to apply that information when confronted with future challenges.The data are compelling. Improving performance may not be best accomplished by pushing employees to work harder or longer. Although seemingly antithetical, the secret to creating a winning team is to give them permission to slow down, so the benefits of reflection can shine through.This article first appeared on Smartbrief.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

How to Get a Job in 2017

How to Get a Job in 2017How to Get a Job in 2017Experts agree that one of the most popular times for job hunding is the first month of any new year. With 2017 just around the corner, read up on these tips for how to nail the job hunt from start to finish. Happy (job) huntingStage 1 While searching for jobsUse your networkThe age old saying Its not what you know but who you know turns out to have more than a little sense behind it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70 percent of jobs are found through networking. If youre not in the practice of actively networking, now is a good time to get started. In the digital age, its as easy as researching some networking events in your city that are focused on or attended by people in your industry of choice. To make things go more smoothly, think about inviting along a past coworker to come network with you. Make sure you have business cards before you go. (Resume schneemensch provides these with your own personal brand to matc h your resume and cover letter when you complete your order).Keep a job search notebookDuring the job hunt, its important to stay organized. Try keeping a notebook or a spreadsheet of all the jobs youre applying to. Make note of the company name, website, important contacts at the company, and the status of your application, as well as any other fields you feel are relevant.Be meticulous about how you project yourselfSome of the biggest mistakes people make on their job applications are misspelled words, sloppy formatting, and bad grammar. Have someone proofread and provide general feedback about your resume and cover letters. Another big mistake is having an unprofessional email address. If your email address is anything other than your name or initials, think about creating one specifically for the job hunt. This might also help to keep track of your applications and materials.Follow up on your applicationsFollowing up is key. After sending your application, send an email to the c ontact listed in HR confirming they received your application and asking if they need any additional materials from you. Employers love to hire people who are on top of things. positiv it shows that you are really interested in working for themAnalyze your past job searchesMake a list of your past job hunts. What patterns do you notice? What were your most successful interviews and why do you think they were successful? Where could you have done more or better? This will help you prepare yourself and put your best foot forward in your current job hunt.Stage 2 Got an interview? Great Heres how to preparePrepare yourself for that interview.Thoroughly research the companies that have requested an interview. Read over their website and make notes of things that stick out to you, and questions that you may have about the work they do there (as you know the interviewer almost always asks if you have any questions at the end of your discussion). Review commonly asked interview questions, a nd conduct practice interviews with people who can give you constructive criticism to improve your skills.Dress the part.As shallow as it may sound, what youre wearing and how you present yourself on the day of your interview largely contributes to an employers first impression of you. For women, check out Refinery 29s tips for interview outfits you already have.For men, check out GQs interview style tips.Pay attention to your body language.Body language speaks volumes about your self confidence and influences the way people perceive you. Practice good posture, a firm handshake and eye contact if those things are a struggle for you.Stage 3 deutsche post dhl InterviewFollow up with your interviewer if possible.Send an email saying it was nice to meet them and learn about the company, thank them for their time, and say you look forward to hearing from them. If directly contacting your interviewer is impossible, then send an email to HR saying it was nice to interview with insert inter viewers name, etc.Dont stop applying to jobsAs we say here Resume Yeti, the job hunt is never over. There is always something new on the horizon, a career switch, better job, or promotion. Even if you have a job, keep your options open.