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You hate your job. You find yourself complaining about it daily to your family and friends. Every Sunday night, you tell yourself that you're finally going to quit and find a new job because you just can't take it anymore. But you don't.

Instead, you go to work, come home, complain, and start the whole cycle over again. You're completely miserable in your current job, but you're absolutely terrified to find a new job. Why?

You're Afraid Of The Unknown

Yes, starting a new job can be scary. You have to adapt to a new work environment, make new work friends, and even learn some new skills—and you don't know if you'll even like it after everything's said and done. What if it turns out to be worse than your last job? What if they don't like you? What if you don't fit in? What if you don't perform at the level they expected? It's similar to starting at a new school where you don't know anyone, where anything is, or how your teachers are going to be.

The truth is that starting a new job can be intimidating. You're walking into a new situation and you're not sure what to expect. The best thing you can do is get to know the company as much as you can before accepting a job offer. Learn it inside and out, make an effort to get to know people you'd be working with over LinkedIn or coffee, and ask questions that can give you insight into the company culture.

You're Not Confident In What You Have To Offer

Don't feel like you have what it takes to make it anywhere else? Afraid to find a new job because you don't want to look like an incompetent employee? If you think you're lacking the skills to succeed elsewhere, take an inventory of your skill sets. Then, compare them to the skill sets that are required for the jobs you're considering.

What are you missing? Where do you need to ramp up your skills? Do you have additional skills that could lend themselves to the job? Make a list of the skills you have and the ones you need to develop.

You're Not Really Sure What You Have To Offer

You need to understand what you have to offer so you can market yourself effectively to employers.

Again, take a look at your skill sets. Think about past accomplishments at work. What have you achieved? What are you proud of? What problem do you solve at your current company? Make sure you quantify your work experience on your resume so employers know what you have to offer and can see the value you provide as a business-of-one.

You Don't Know What You Want To Do Next

You want to find a new job, but you have no idea what you want to do. All you know is that you hate your current job and you want out. If you're having trouble figuring out what you want to do next, you need to take some time to explore.

Research different jobs, industries, and companies. Talk to people about their work—why they like it, hate it, and what excites them about it. Take some time to figure out what interests you and what projects energize you.

You're Afraid Of The Financial Repercussions

What if you don't get the benefits you have at your current job? What if you have to take a pay cut? What if it takes too long to find a new job and you run out of money? Research competitive salary rates before you look for a new job. Also, research the companies you're interested in to learn about what kinds of benefits they offer employees.

It's important to understand what your priorities and must-haves are in your new job. The last thing you want to do is accept a job knowing that it won't meet your needs because it will just result in you looking for a new job in a few months. However, understand that you might not necessarily make the same paycheck as your current job. Research so you know what to expect.

If you're terrified to find a new job, you're not alone. We hope that by identifying these fears and following the tips above, you'll have the confidence and courage to look for your next job. Remember, you'll never know what you can do until you try!

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Let's talk about something even more important than knowing to mute yourself on Zoom: your network.

Building a strong and diverse professional network isn't just a good idea; it is THE cheat code for your career. The right people in your network can open doors you didn't even know existed, empowering you to reach new levels in your career journey.

The following article is inspired by a previously written article on the Work It DAILY blog: Top 10 People You Must Have In Your Network To Find A Job by Tai Goodwin and Jenna Arcand.

One of the best mindsets you can have when networking is that every person you meet, introduce yourself to, connect with, and reconnect with could be your golden ticket to your dream job, best-fit client, or opportunity you haven't even thought of. But you must network and nurture those connections to get the desired results, fostering community and support in your professional life.

Let's dive into the 10 people you absolutely NEED in your network. These folks aren't just placeholders; each brings something crucial to your career development—like the Avengers, but with less spandex and more coffee.

1. The Mentor

Ah, the Mentor. The Yoda to your Luke, the Dumbledore to your Harry. We all need that wise, experienced person who's been there, done that, and can tell you exactly how you're about to mess up. But in a loving way, of course.

A Mentor doesn't just give you advice—they give you that gut check when you're about to make a career decision that might have you facepalming for years. They will make the path easier but not eliminate all learning experiences. Mentorship isn't just about guidance; it's about having someone in your corner who truly wants to see you succeed, even when you can't see it for yourself.

2. The Connector

The Connector is the person who knows everyone, and I mean everyone. They are the human equivalent of LinkedIn on steroids, making connections that can change your entire career trajectory. They are the person who, whenever you go anywhere, is always saying hi to someone, or someone is saying hey to them. And it's not just a casual greeting—after a bit of small talk, they're telling you that person's life story, kids' names, pets, family happenings, etc. They are your personal CMS (connection management system).

How do you nurture a relationship with a Connector? Be genuine, express gratitude, and—here's a thought—be a Connector yourself! Pay it forward, and it all comes full circle, empowering you to impact your network significantly.

3. The Industry Insider

In our fast-paced world, having an Industry Insider in your network is like having tomorrow's newspaper today. Industry Insiders dial in on what's happening in your field, often before anyone else. They know the trends, challenges, and, most importantly, opportunities just around the corner. These professionals have deep knowledge in an area and can provide current and upcoming trends, which helps you stay competitive. The difference between an Industry Insider and an Innovator is that the Insider is more focused on "real-time" developments, whereas an Innovator is looking toward the future.

Want to connect with an Industry Insider? Engage with their content, attend the same events, and, most importantly, listen. You'll learn more in one lunch with an Insider than in weeks of Googling.

4. The Innovator

The Innovator is that person who's always two steps ahead—sometimes so far ahead that you're not even sure what they're talking about, but you nod along because, hey, they're onto something. These people challenge the status quo and bring fresh, creative ideas to the table. Many would say "out of the box" with their ideas. They are more interested in disruptive ideas, radical shifts, creative thinking, and problem-solving.

Stepping outside of any box or comfort zone can be anxiety-inducing. Meeting an Innovator who not only lived outside the box but didn't even know where the box was anymore takes some of the anxiety out and infuses excitement. Their problem-solving approach has completely shifted how I handle challenges, making me more adaptable. Honestly, I love a great brainstorming session now.

5. The Challenger

You know those people who ask you, "But why?" and "Have you thought about it this way?" right when you feel super confident about something? Yeah, that's the Challenger. They push you out of your comfort zone, not because they like seeing you squirm (okay, maybe a little), but because they know you're capable of more. Others may mention phrases like "tough love," "devil's advocate," etc.

This relationship may be one of the toughest in your inner circle, but it can also be one of the most powerful. So, next time someone in your network challenges you, thank them after you finish cursing their name.

6. The Cheerleader

If the Challenger is the tough-love coach, the Cheerleader is your number-one fan, pom-poms and all. We all need someone who believes in us, even when we're not sure we believe in ourselves. This person will be encouraging, supportive, and optimistic. Cheerleaders are the ones who remind you of your accomplishments when imposter syndrome is doing its worst.

It's not just about feeling good—it's about having the confidence to keep pushing forward. And remember, being a Cheerleader for others is just as important. Karma, baby!

7. The Collaborator

Collaboration isn't just a buzzword; it's the secret sauce to making big things happen. The Collaborator in your network is the person who knows how to work with others to bring ideas to life. Collaborators appreciate mutual respect, clear and concise communication, and the willingness to share the spotlight. This professional turns your projects and goals into a team effort. They are the epitome of "two heads are better than one."

8. The Rising Star

Don't underestimate the power of connecting with someone on the way up. Rising Stars bring fresh energy, new perspectives, ambition and potential, and sometimes the very innovation you need to stay ahead of the curve. Plus, when they hit it big, you can proudly say you knew them when.

While new to the "real world," these professionals bring very different skills to your industry from when you joined. The same benefits your Mentor provides to you, the same goes for your relationship with a Rising Star and yourself. Keep an eye out for these folks—they're the future of your industry.

9. The Amplifier (Influencer)

Before you roll your eyes, let me clarify: I'm not just talking about Instagram stars selling protein powder (Influencer). The Amplifier in your network is someone who has the reach and credibility to amplify your message to a broader audience. This network relationship is mutually beneficial through reciprocal opportunities, partnerships, or enhanced reputation in their network.

Amplifiers guard their credibility carefully. Associating with someone who isn't authentic could damage their reputation, making them wary of supporting you—the name of the game: authenticity. The Amplifier can smell a phony a mile away—seriously, they're like bloodhounds, but instead of tracking people, they're sniffing out your bad vibes and fake enthusiasm. You could be offering them gold, but if you're faking it, they'll smell it before they see it.

10. The Mastermind

Last but not least, the Mastermind. This is the person—or group—who challenges your thinking and pushes your intellectual boundaries. Whether it's a formal group or a regular meeting of brilliant minds, having a Mastermind in your network is like having your own think tank.

Isn't a Mastermind the same as the Innovator? Not quite. Innovators are more about disrupting, while Masterminds focus on refining and expanding those ideas.

Conclusion

So there you have it—the 10 people you NEED in your network. Each plays a vital role in your professional journey through guidance, connections, innovation, or just a good old-fashioned pep talk. Take a moment to reflect on your network. Who's missing? Where can you grow?

If you have a story about one of these roles in your network or if there's someone you think I missed, comment below or shoot me a message. Let's keep this conversation going—after all, networking is a team sport.

Thanks for reading.

Remember: you're not just building a network; you're building a community for your career.

Someone accepted your request to connect on LinkedIn. Yay! Now what?

Now, you need to start a conversation.

Don't just let that new connection sit dead in the water. Here's how to start a conversation with a new LinkedIn connection.

How Do You Start A Conversation On LinkedIn?

To start a conversation with a LinkedIn connection, first write a friendly subject line. Then, introduce yourself and offer your support. Make sure not to ask for any favors just yet!

Start With The Subject Line

Struggling to write your initial message? Here are a few subject ideas to get you started (you would elaborate within your message).

For a basic subject line, you could start with something like:

• Thanks for connecting!
• It's great to meet you!

If you enjoyed an article they wrote/shared, you could start with something like:

• Loved your article!
• Thanks for sharing your insight.

If you met your new LinkedIn connection in person, you could start with something like:

• Great meeting you at yesterday's event!
• Wanted to continue our conversation from yesterday.

Introduce Yourself

Shoot your new LinkedIn connection a brief message shortly after connecting. You can start by introducing yourself, and then elaborate on why you wanted to connect in the first place.

Mention things you have in common. Feel free to ask them about their goals and interests. What do they want to accomplish? What do they love doing? Highlight commonalities. It will help build a stronger personal connection.

Offer Your Support

We can't stress how important it is to offer value to your connections, especially in your first conversation. It shows that you're a valuable contact who's ready and willing to help your connections.

Offering your support can be as simple as saying something like, "If there's anything I can do to offer support or anyone in my network that I can introduce you to, please let me know. Happy to help." You don't have to go overboard with this in your first message. A brief sentence like the one above is great. Just let them know you're offering.

Don't Ask For Any Favors Just Yet

Do not ask for anything from your new connection unless it benefits them in some way.

For example, if you need a quote from them for an upcoming blog post you're writing, highlight the fact that you'll be promoting the heck out of it and that it will give them some exposure. You can ask for a favor after you've built your professional relationship with this person and you have a history of offering value without asking for anything in return.

What Is A Good Introduction Message On LinkedIn?

A good introduction message has three parts: a subject line, a sentence or two where you introduce yourself, and a sentence where you offer your support.

Here's an example: "Thanks for connecting! I noticed you also studied at XYZ University. Go Bobcats! Please let me know if there's anything I can do to offer support or anyone in my network that I can introduce you to. Happy to help!"

What To Do When Someone Connects With YOU...

When someone reaches out to you and asks to connect, make sure you message them immediately after accepting their request with a message that says something like, "Thanks for connecting. It's great to meet you." That way, if they forget to message you, you'll be sitting in their inbox, happy and ready to chat.

Starting a conversation with a new LinkedIn connection is easy once you know how to do it properly. The next time you want to connect with someone new on LinkedIn, follow these four steps. You'll grow your professional network in no time!

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You want a resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile that presents you in the best possible light. With all of the emphasis on loading your documents with keywords, accomplishments, and metrics that make the case for you being the perfect fit for the position you're after, have you overlooked proper punctuation?

Some might wonder what the big deal is about punctuation. Surely if you start your sentences with a capital letter and end them with a period, that's all you need to worry about, right?

Unfortunately not.

The text in resumes is often so packed with information that seemingly inconsequential punctuation missteps can distort your meaning or, worse, cause the hiring manager to pause in confusion.

That pause is bad news for you: it may make the recruiter see you as a less-than-attractive candidate, questioning your ability to communicate or pay attention to details, both highly valued skills in today's workplace. Just as a modern spouse becomes more alluring to a partner by doing the dishes and laundry, using proper punctuation makes you downright sexy to a hiring manager.

Both efforts make lives easier for the people who are important to you, so go the extra mile by following these important rules (and do the dishes)...

1. Capitalization

In addition to appearing at the beginning of sentences and in section headings, capital letters also signify important words. But using too many "important words" in your documents slows the reader down or seems pretentious.

For example, we sometimes see text like this in resumes: "Expertise in Human Resources, Training, and Recruiting."

Instead, try: "Expertise in human resources, training, recruiting."

Other than proper names like your own name or the names of products, you will rarely need to capitalize words that don't appear at the beginning of a line or sentence. You'll also want to capitalize your own job title above each position listed on your resume.

However, if you reference someone else's job title in your career documents, the general rule is that it is only capitalized when the person's name follows (Vice President Joe Smith)—not when merely referring to the position (as in "reporting to the vice president").

Of course, every rule tends to have its exceptions, and there are a few for capitalization. However, these are good to start with.

2. Hyphens

Use hyphens for compound adjectives that precede a noun, such as "client-focused approach" or "full-time employees." And if you have two adjectives that modify the same base word, use a hyphen after the first, as in "mid- and senior-level management."

Do not use a hyphen in a compound adjective if the first word ends in -ly, as in "highly qualified candidate."

3. Semicolons

Semicolons can either separate two independent clauses when the second clause is not directly related to the first, or they can be useful when you want to list items that already include a comma.

For example, "Proficient in software including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; CorelDRAW; and Adobe Photoshop."

4. Colons

Colons are used to join two independent clauses when the second clause is directly related to the first.

The most common usage in resumes is for lists, as in, "Proficient in the following software: MS Excel, Word, and PowerPoint."

5. Commas

There's a fierce debate between those who advocate using serial, or Oxford, commas (putting a comma before the final "and" in a series) and those who don't.

The best practice for resumes is to use serial commas, as they can really make your career documents easier to understand.

This is especially true when you list a series of items where two things may be grouped together (think "sales and marketing"). But even sentence construction like, "Facilitate mock interviews, identify position and tailor interview questions," may cause the reader to stumble.

At first read, it may sound like the candidate is responsible for identifying a position and identifying someone who tailors clothes! So, our advice is to avoid ambiguity by always using serial commas in career documents, especially in resumes.

6. Spaces After A Period

The current convention is to use one space after a period, not two. The same goes for colons.

We know, we know.

If you grew up learning to type on an IBM Selectric, this is a hard habit to break. But if you keep using two spaces, you'll look as antiquated as the typewriter.

Trust us, knowing these six punctuation tips will make you a real turn-on to an employer.

Now that you've reviewed some of the resume punctuation rules that you'll want to be aware of, we'll share the most important rule of all: however you choose to use punctuation throughout your career documents, do it consistently!

Even more jarring than not following proper punctuation rules is following them only some of the time.

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Hiring managers ask interview questions about all kinds of things—your background, your experience, your successes, your failures, and all kinds of day-to-day issues. One of the things they may want to know is how you handle stress or pressure on the job.

Most jobs have elements of stress or pressure, and how you behave in response to that stress greatly affects how you perform and how you affect the work environment for others. Here are three sample questions and answers about stress for you to consider before your next job interview.

1. How Do You Handle Stress And Pressure On The Job?

This question is pretty straightforward. You may be tempted to say, “I handle it just fine," or “It motivates me to work harder." Even though these seem like good answers, you'll be better off if you can give them a little more insight into you and the way you think. For instance, a more effective way to respond may be to say, “I've learned that, in times of stress, it's very important to prioritize my tasks so I can continue to be productive," and then give an example using the "Experience + Learn = Grow" method.

However you've learned to deal with stressful situations, it's nice to follow up your response with an example of how you've put that approach to the test. Your example would include the steps you took to think about what had to be done and decide on priorities.

2. Describe A Time When Your Workload Was Heavy And How You Handled It.

This question is essentially asking the same thing as the direct, straightforward question above, but specifically asks for a story. Don't just say that you buckled down and stayed until the work was done. That does show you as someone who finishes a job no matter what, but you'll make yourself stand out more if you choose an example that walks them through how you approach and solve problems.

Highlight your critical thinking skills. Usually, this will touch on how you had to look at the situation critically and prioritize what needed to be done immediately and what could wait (or what could be delegated). Walk them through why you chose what you chose, what the results were, and how you grew as a professional because of this challenge.

3. Describe A Time When Your Work Was Criticized And How You Handled It.

Isn't it always a bit stressful when our work is criticized? No one's perfect, so chances are you had your work criticized in the past (and will again in the future). To become better at anything, you must be open to constructive criticism and willing to learn from it. Learning and improving are what will make you even more valuable as you grow in your career.

Tell the hiring manager about a situation that is preferably far in your past and isn't directly related to important tasks of the job you're interviewing for. (Accountants may not want to talk about how you miscalculated a budget forecast because of a math problem—but telling a story about what you learned from a difficult situation with a project team member that made you a much better communicator would be great.) Explain the situation you were criticized for, what you learned from the experience, and how that constructive criticism helped you grow in the role (Experience + Learn = Grow). Your goal is to show how you improved and became a better professional because of it.

Before your next job interview, practice answering the above questions about how you handle stress. You'll be better prepared to answer with a response that will surely impress hiring managers and make you stand out from the competition.

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Graduating from college should be a time of excitement and optimism. You’ve put in years of hard work, and now, it’s time to step into the professional world. But for many of today’s recent grads, the job market looks anything but inviting.

With a shrinking number of entry-level positions and companies scaling back on training programs, finding that first job feels like an uphill battle. As a career coach for over 20 years, I’ve seen this firsthand, and I want to help you understand why this is happening and how you can break through despite the challenges.

Why are entry-level jobs disappearing?

When companies are tightening their belts, one of the first things they do is limit hiring for roles that require significant training and onboarding. From a business perspective, it’s simple: they need people who can hit the ground running and offer an immediate return on investment. Unfortunately, most new graduates don’t fit that mold yet. You may not have extensive experience or an in-depth understanding of the industry, which makes it harder to prove your value to these companies at first glance.

However, that doesn’t mean you don’t have value. You simply need to approach the job search with a strategy that helps you demonstrate your potential in a way that resonates with employers.

Convey Your Value To Employers Through Connection

I often hear new grads say, “What value do I bring? I’ve only got six months of internship experience!” Let me tell you, you do have value—and it’s more than you might realize.

One of the most effective ways to convey your value is through your connection to the employer. When I work with recent grads, I guide them through building something I call an interview bucket list. This is a list of 10 to 20 companies that you’re truly passionate about, not just because they’re popular or well-known, but because you genuinely admire their products, services, or mission.

When you can articulate why these companies are on your list—how their work resonates with you and aligns with your goals—you’ve already started to build a meaningful connection. And that’s what employers are looking for: someone who doesn’t just want a job, but someone who wants to work for them. That enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates and show employers that you have the kind of intrinsic motivation they’re looking for.

Once you have your interview bucket list, it’s time to backchannel your way in. This means finding ways to connect with people who already work at the companies on your list. Whether it’s through LinkedIn, alumni networks, or other professional organizations, reach out and start building relationships.

And when you do reach out, make sure you share your story. Explain why you’re passionate about the company’s products or services and how your skills and experiences (even if limited) align with their needs. This approach helps demonstrate your hustle, curiosity, and willingness to learn—all of which are highly valued in today’s job market.

Hiring managers aren’t expecting you to have a decade of experience. They know you’re a recent grad. What they want to see is someone with drive, passion, and a commitment to learning and growing with their company. If you can show them that you’re already invested in what they do, they’ll see you as someone who can hit the ground running, even if you don’t have all the technical skills just yet.

When you apply for jobs online in today's market without backchanneling, it's impossible to make that connection with an employer. It's impossible to stand out. With so many graduates taking the same approach, online applications often get lost in a sea of resumes. It’s not that you’re unqualified; it’s that the system is overwhelmed.

That’s why backchanneling is so essential right now. It’s about getting off the crowded highway and finding alternate routes that get you noticed. Instead of waiting for your application to float to the top of a recruiter’s inbox, you’re taking control of your own job search and building relationships that lead to opportunities.

At the end of the day, the job market for new grads may be tough, but it’s not impossible. I’ve seen countless recent graduates land incredible jobs using these exact strategies. What sets them apart isn’t just their qualifications, but their willingness to hustle, their ability to make meaningful connections, and their passion for the companies they want to work for.

So if you’re feeling stuck or discouraged, don’t lose hope. Start building your interview bucket list, reach out to people in the companies you admire, and lead with your passion. The right opportunity is out there, and with the right strategy, you can make it yours.

Good luck! Go get 'em.

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The term "inspiration" is very commonly used. Everyone seems to be inspired by someone or something in their lives. Their inspiration can be a person, event, imaginary character, or even an insight. To cook, write a poem, draw, or take up a job, one needs inspiration. In simple words, inspiration is a creative push from something that resonates deeply with you and your beliefs.

The Causes Of Inspiration

The reasons for inspiration can be strange. Two sons of a drunken man can be inspired by their dad to become an alcoholic or a teetotaler. Inspirations can emerge from one’s mind too. It is a very active process of the mind. A person or an object can inspire someone only if they are mentally active enough to be receptive to that object or person. Thus, in order to be inspired, you need to be receptive and should have an open mind.

Impressions And Inspiration

Sometimes, these two words are used interchangeably, but they are totally two different processes. A person’s mind is like a soft mold and an impression can be easily made, whether or not it is a good one. However, inspiring a mind is like making a rigid object flexible. A person needs to be hyperactive when involved with an object in order for it to inspire them.

How To Find Inspiration

Do some objects come with an inspiration tag? Why do some objects inspire a few people and some do not? Centuries ago, the people who got hit by falling apples did not think the phenomena would be related to gravity. It is almost like seeking a new reality.

When a mind actively searches for inspiration, it will automatically find it. An artist gets the inspiration to draw upon seeing a butterfly because he has been seeking some object that inspires him to draw. Thus, inspiration is a creative process. Once tagged as creative, it means that the inspiration process, methods, and effects of one person will not be the same as that of another. Even the same person may not be inspired in the same way by two different objects.

Inspiration Psychology

To come up with the psychology of inspiration, we need to know what will inspire us, why it inspires us, and why certain objects can inspire certain people and not others. To study the inspiration process, one needs empirical data, but this process is contributed by personal experience, tastes, attitude, personality, and many other factors. Finding inspiration is something you must do yourself, no matter how much information is available about it. That's what makes it more of an art than a science.

The first element of the inspiration process is the purpose. A photographer will be inspired by a butterfly flying over its reflection in a pond to take a picture, but a person who wants to catch some fish may not be stirred by the same bug. What is important to the person looking for inspiration is where their interests intersect with the outside world.

Intuition can guide anyone at any time, but inspiration seeks those who search for it. Sudden enlightenment is the common term used to describe an inspiration process initiation. For instance, a scientist who wants to find an alternative source of energy would get enlightenment from a boiling pot’s rattling lid.

The inspiration process is a little more than just a thought process. It is an interlinked web that connects all the external factors and internal factors to create a solution.

Types Of Inspiration

1. The knowledge-based inspiration process is initiated by knowledge gained or an understanding of a process or an object. For instance, light falls on shattered pieces of glass and creates a visual pattern. An artist would be inspired to draw it, a poet would write about it, and a scientist would have the inspiration to learn why such a visual pattern is produced. Thus the kind and amount of knowledge of the process defines the inspiration.

2. The need-based inspiration process is developed from the needs of the person. An explorer can be inspired by a travel book, but a scientist will not be. So, when the object can satisfy a need of the person, then the probability of that object creating inspiration is much higher.

3. Object-based inspiration can be obtained from personal feelings about an object or subject. A student could be inspired by a teacher to become one because they like the teacher.

4. Internal inspiration can be defined as a thought-based inspiration process. For instance, a scientist looking for a structure of benzene gets their inspiration from a dream of a snake biting its own tail. A person gets inspired if an object or a scene can be related to the topic in their thought process.

In short, inspiration is about what our mind wants to see and what the eyes actually see. If the mind can correlate both, then inspiration is more likely to happen.

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When you're unemployed, one of your biggest fears is being judged by others. When it comes to dating, that fear can be amplified.

The number one question asked when meeting someone new is, “What do you do for a living?" For many people who are out of work, that simple question can feel like a kick to the stomach.

Don't let unemployment shake your confidence. Here are a few tips for handling the awkward “I'm actually unemployed" talk so you can keep dating while you're unemployed.

1. Discover What You're Passionate About

Being single during a career transition can be an exciting experience, according to Adam LoDolce, a Boston-based dating coach for both men and women. "Dating is the perfect time to redefine yourself," he says. According to LoDolce, it's extremely important to discover what you're really passionate about during this transitional period. "We put so much emphasis on having a good job," says LoDolce. "You need to realize that, even if you have a good job, it's not automatically going to get you the girl or the guy."

Incorporating passion and excitement into your conversation is key during a career transition. By changing your perspective, you can control how people view your situation.

2. Avoid Conversation Killers

There are three common questions that come up when you're getting to know someone new. They are:

• What do you do for a living?
• How old are you?
• Where are you from?

These questions are major conversation killers, according to LoDolce. "It's boring conversation," he says. "If you're unemployed, work on deflecting these questions and making fun conversation. Have fun."

So, what do you ask instead? Here are a few conversation starters to try:

• What's your dream job?
• What are your hobbies?
• What are some places you'd like to visit?

3. Focus On Your Passions

"Stop focusing on what people do for a living and focus on what they're passionate about instead," says LoDolce. Although some people are lucky enough to have a job they are passionate about, many people out there aren't doing what they love for a living.

Talking about your passions will not only help someone get to know you, but it will also be more interesting for both parties involved.

4. Be Positive

"Being honest about your unemployment is the best approach to communicating with a new guy [or girl]," says dating expert Marni Battista. That doesn't mean you have to be negative about it, though. Battista suggests putting a positive spin on your situation. For instance, rather than talking about how the economy is killing your industry, or how hiring folks just don't "get you," focus on what's working.

Here's an example: "I love being a teacher and am confident that my expertise in integrating technology into the classroom is going to land me an amazing position. All the interviews are great opportunities to practice and discover what the marketplace is looking for."

"When you cast blame on life's circumstances, it leaks a 'Debbie Downer' energy to your date and he [or she] will be more turned off by your negativity rather than the fact that you are unemployed," says Battista.

5. Don't Be Too Serious

Afraid of an awkward pause in the conversation after you break the news to your date? Try to make light of the situation as best as you can. "I find that most awkward moments are awkward because you are feeling awkward," says LoDolce. You need to feel comfortable.

If you start feeling uncomfortable, LoDolce suggests joking around and making light of the situation. "If you're overly serious about it, it's going to be uncomfortable," he says.

6. Spruce Up Your Online Brand

"In the online dating world, your first impression is digitized—and your career is part of that," says Laurie Davis, author of Love at First Click: The Ultimate Guide to Online Dating. Most dating profiles have a section to discuss your job. When you're unemployed, avoid listing a hopeful job title or giving a resume rundown. Avoid posting old photos, or mentioning a would-be job or past position because it sets expectations you can't live up to in person. Not to mention, giving your total work history will give the impression that you're trying too hard...and possibly hiding something, she says.

Davis suggests relying on the industry drop-down menus that dating sites offer. If a description can't be avoided, focus on volunteer work or passions. When talking about projects that are gaining momentum, use confident phrasing.

"Your match doesn't need to know the intricacies of your experience in a first impression," Davis explains. Say something like "I'm a management consultant" rather than "I'm trying to start consulting for executives since I did a lot of that in my past job." "Overexplaining isn't confident," she says.

We hope these six tips help you stay confident on the dating scene while you're unemployed. There's so much more to you than your career.

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Is there one thing you can say in a cover letter that will guarantee it accomplishes its purpose? Absolutely!

A cover letter serves as an introduction to your resume and yourself as a candidate for employment. It's the place to show your interest in the position and make a personal connection between who you are and why you're a great fit for the opportunity.

Showing your interest and passion for the company is important in the cover letter. However, saying this one thing is almost an ultimate guarantee you'll get the interview...

Ask For It

You know that old saying, "Ask and you shall receive"? It's true. It may sound like common sense and obvious advice, but how many times have you sent a cover letter with your resume and not asked for an interview? It's easy to do!

Should You Ask For An Interview In A Cover Letter?

You may be hesitant to ask for an interview in your cover letter (or might just forget to do so) but you absolutely should. It shows confidence and enthusiasm for the opportunity.

How Do You Ask For An Interview In A Cover Letter?

In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, all you need to do is ask the employer for an interview. Our statistics have indicated job seekers who ask for the interview in their cover letters are twice as likely to get the interview.

Below, we give you several examples that you can modify and use in your own cover letter.

Examples Of How To Ask For A Job Interview In Your Cover Letter

Ending #1

I'm excited about the Director of Sales position with XYZ Widgets and would love the opportunity to meet in person to further discuss my experience and the value I can offer you as your next Director of Sales. Please call me at 555.555.5555 to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

Ending #2

I would love a personal interview at your earliest convenience to further discuss my credentials with you. I can be reached at 555.555.5555 and will follow up as well to make sure you've received my information.

Ending #3

Thank you for your time reviewing my resume. I welcome the opportunity to discuss in a personal interview my qualifications and fit for the position. Feel free to reach me at 555.555.5555 at your earliest convenience.

Ending #4

Thank you for your time and consideration. I'd love the opportunity to further discuss the position and my experience with you. Please reach out to me at 555.555.5555 to schedule an interview.

Remember: You can ask for the interview with any wording you're comfortable with, whether that's with more direct language or not. The key thing is to close your cover letter by asking for an interview.

A cover letter is your chance to connect with an employer and explain your passion for what they do and how you believe you can help them achieve their goals as a company. If you do all that and ask for the job interview at the end of your cover letter, you'll be much more likely to get a call from the hiring manager.

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Is inspiration lacking this Monday morning? On the job search and feeling blue? Stuck in a career you hate? Not sure what success means to you? You're not alone. Grab a nice, warm cup of coffee, and let us help you out.

Light your inner fire with these inspirational career quotes.

What Are Professional Quotes? 

Professional quotes motivate and inspire you to become the best professional you can be in your career. They remind you that you can achieve what you want to achieve. What does success look like to you? If you ever need some inspiration, read these quotes...

What Are The Best Inspirational Quotes For Professionals?

1. “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." —Confucius
   
2. “It's not what you achieve, it's what you overcome. That's what defines your career." —Carlton Fisk
3. “Work to become, not to acquire." —Elbert Hubbard
4. “Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for doing it." —Katherine Whitehorn
5. "I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." —Michael Jordan
   
6. "Failure doesn't mean you are a failure it just means you haven't succeeded yet." —Robert H. Schuller
7. "The best way to predict the future is to create it." —Abraham Lincoln
8. "Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time." —Thomas A. Edison
9. "I think everyone should experience defeat at least once during their career. You learn a lot from it." —Lou Holtz
10. "I want to look back on my career and be proud of the work, and be proud that I tried everything." —Jon Stewart
11. "Dreams are extremely important. You can't do it unless you imagine it." —George Lucas
12. "If you can DREAM it, you can DO it." —Walt Disney
13. "Desire! That's the one secret of every man's career. Not education. Not being born with hidden talents. Desire." —Johnny Carson
14. "I can not do everything, but I can do something. I must not fail to do the something that I can do." —Helen Keller
15. "A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on the course to victory." —Arthur Golden
16. "It's not the days in your life, but the life in your days that counts." —Brian White
17. "Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom." —General George Patton
18. "Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." —Albert Einstein
19. "Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment." —Ralph Waldo Emerson
20. "All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure." —Mark Twain
21. "You can't build a reputation on what you're going to do." —Confucius

1. “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." —Confucius

2. “It's not what you achieve, it's what you overcome. That's what defines your career." —Carlton Fisk

3. “Work to become, not to acquire." —Elbert Hubbard

4. “Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for doing it." —Katherine Whitehorn

5. "I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." —Michael Jordan

6. "Failure doesn't mean you are a failure it just means you haven't succeeded yet." —Robert H. Schuller

7. "The best way to predict the future is to create it." —Abraham Lincoln

8. "Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time." —Thomas A. Edison

9. "I think everyone should experience defeat at least once during their career. You learn a lot from it." —Lou Holtz

10. "I want to look back on my career and be proud of the work, and be proud that I tried everything." —Jon Stewart

11. "Dreams are extremely important. You can't do it unless you imagine it." —George Lucas

12. "If you can DREAM it, you can DO it." —Walt Disney

13. "Desire! That's the one secret of every man's career. Not education. Not being born with hidden talents. Desire." —Johnny Carson

14. "I can not do everything, but I can do something. I must not fail to do the something that I can do." —Helen Keller

15. "A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on the course to victory." —Arthur Golden

16. "It's not the days in your life, but the life in your days that counts." —Brian White

17. "Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom." —General George Patton

18. "Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." —Albert Einstein

19. "Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment." —Ralph Waldo Emerson

20. "All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure." —Mark Twain

21. "You can't build a reputation on what you're going to do." —Confucius
Get Inspired To Unlock Your Career Potential! 

We hope these quotes motivate you. Please share with someone you know who needs a little inspiration right now.

If you need more inspiration, here are some additional inspirational career quotes you might find helpful:

1. 7 Motivational Career Change Quotes
2. 12 Fascinating Quotes About Work-Life Balance
3. 10 Inspirational Career Quotes For Recent College Grads
4. Inspirational Quotes: Happy Grad Project

Need help with your career?

Become a member or check out our free resources to learn how to UNLEASH your true potential to get what you want from work!

You nailed the interview, or at least you thought you did. Days turn into weeks, and all you hear is...silence. If you've ever been ghosted after a job interview, you're not alone. While it’s frustrating and can leave you second-guessing everything, there are often hidden reasons why employers go radio silent.

It's Not You, It's Them.

If you've been ghosted after an interview, putting in a ton of work during the interview process—perhaps even attending and acing five interviews and putting 40 hours in on a special project—what that's telling you is that there's something happening on the employer's side.

You didn't do anything wrong. They are struggling to decide if hiring someone for the position is something they need. Do they have the money for it? Is this the direction they want to go in? Unfortunately, many companies list job postings and conduct interviews in order to figure out what they actually need in a candidate—what they actually need to do next in the work. It's just the reality.

I know that's hard to hear, but just because you've been ghosted doesn't mean you can't keep that relationship with the employer going. Here's what I would do if I were ghosted after an interview...

Stay On Their Radar By Sending A Helpful Resource

The employer knows you invested a lot of time and effort into interviewing with them, and when they realize they can't hire you now, they don't know what to say to you. So they ghost you. And I know you're thinking, "Why can't they do the right thing and just tell me what's going on?" But let's give them the benefit of the doubt.

Instead of sending them another follow-up email asking about the job, I want you to try a cool technique. Find a really good article or video that talks about a pain you've discussed through this interview process. If you've done your homework, you know what their pain points are. You know exactly what's broken and, specifically, what's costing them money, what's making them lose money, or why they're failing to make more money. You need to tie yourself to the money. That's the only way they can justify hiring you.

So, find an article or video about that and send a message to them. Do not ask about the job. Just message them and say...

"Hey, I saw this article/video and it immediately made me think about our conversations. Thought you all would find it helpful. Hope you're having a great week!"

That's it. Now the employer is thinking, "Wait. This person isn't asking about the job. Have they taken another job? What's going on?" Unfortunately, it's a little bit like the psychology of dating.

When you send an employer a message with a helpful resource, you're showing your professionalism. You have no hard feelings, and you still want to keep the relationship going. You're still thinking about them in terms of value. When you do this instead of asking about the job again, it's incredible how you suddenly get a response.

So many of my clients who are getting ghosted after an interview use this strategy, and the employer immediately responds to them. All of a sudden, they have an update about the job and they're telling them where they're at.

It's unfortunate how common it is to get ghosted by employers after one or more job interviews. But by sharing a helpful article or video without inquiring about the job, you're going to keep that relationship going. If you're currently getting ghosted by an employer, try this strategy today.

Good luck! Go get 'em.

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Have you received a call for a group or panel interview recently? While you might be thrilled to make it to this stage of the hiring process, the mere thought of fielding not one but a whole team of interviewers can be enough to put your stomach in knots.

However, the reason most employers conduct panel interviews isn't to intimidate you; rather, it's a time-saving way to meet with people who will likely interact with you in the new job, and gather their impressions all at once. So, when you stride into a panel or group interview, remember that the team is there to learn about you and your value-add, not to interrogate you or make you uncomfortable.

These five tips can help you feel more in control of the process while facing a group of interviewers in a panel interview—with a professional, enthusiastic demeanor that helps win the job.

1. Direct Your Attention To Each Person On The Panel

Upon starting the interview, get each person's name (ask for their business card or jot down the name), and then look at each person as you introduce yourself. This will help to break the ice and establish a connection with all of your interviewers.

While fielding questions, avoid staring at a single person (nothing makes you look more "frozen" than doing this!). Instead, make it a point to relax, smile, and open your gaze to the others in the room. Even if a single member of the group asks you a particular question, look around at the others while you answer it. Doing so will help you project a confident image and build rapport with the entire panel.

2. Expect To Repeat Yourself

While one of your interviewers might take your answer the first time, you can almost expect someone else to either ask for clarification—or ask it again, later in the interview. Why? Because just like our verbal abilities many of us have different listening styles.

What is clear to one panel participant may need further explanation for another person. In addition, each panelist comes to the interview with a different agenda. You can expect a prospective peer to be interested in your technical or analytical skills, for example, while the boss might be more curious about why your last job was so short in length.

You may also find yourself repeating information from earlier interviews. This is perfectly normal in the context of a multi-interview hiring process, so avoid coming across as impatient or noting that you've answered this query before.

3. Find Out Who You'll Need To Impress The Most

Within most panel interviews, it becomes obvious very quickly who is on "your side" and who still hasn't made up their mind. While it may be comforting to direct your answers and gaze toward the interviewer who seems more open to your responses, you're better off tackling the naysayer first. Why? Because winning over the person most likely to reject you shows you have the ability to read the audience, as well as problem-solve on your feet.

Most employers are looking for leaders who will challenge issues head-on, ask numerous questions, and hone in on the thorniest problems first. If you respond well to someone who throws challenges your way, you'll come across as an unflappable professional ready to take on the demands of the job.

In addition, most panel interviewers convene after the interview to discuss the candidate and their impressions. If you've won over the toughest member of the group, the others may throw their support behind them as well.

4. Be Prepared For At Least One Zinger Question

Interviewers, like anyone else, tend to feel more comfortable (and perhaps bold) in a group. Therefore, you can almost count on being asked a question that might not be posed to you in a one-on-one situation. Of course, you'll want to prepare for your interview by pulling out three to five "power stories" that demonstrate your abilities to perform the job.

Arming yourself with these anecdotes will give you the ability to answer numerous behavioral interview questions common in both single and multi-interviewer situations. But if there's any question or situation you would feel awkward explaining, prepare and practice a set of answers to it prior to your panel interview. This way, you won't feel a sense of dread when the question finally comes up, and you'll be better able to handle any curveballs thrown your way.

5. Thank All Participants Promptly

At the conclusion of your panel interview, thank everyone personally, and gather business cards if you haven't already done so. Then, as you're sitting in your car post-interview, write down specific highlights from the interview to include in your thank-you notes, which should be sent within 24 hours after completing the panel interview.

You'll gain the advantage of having the interview fresh in your mind and will score points for your promptness and attention to professional courtesy.

In summary, a panel interview is nothing to dread, especially since it offers an opportunity to establish rapport with your potential new co-workers and bosses. Arm yourself with a stack of success stories, answers to tough questions, thank-you notes, and a smile, and you'll be on your way to a job offer.

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The leaves are changing, the kids are back in school, and that familiar chill is in the air. You think it's the perfect time to look for a job, and it is! But are your job search fears preventing you from making that leap?

It's not uncommon to feel lost when embarking on your job search journey. After all, school teaches us everything except how to get a job. What should you put on your resume? What questions should you ask in an interview? How can you stand out in the hiring process when there's so much competition?

Are you feeling spooked yet?

Believe it or not, there's no need to be afraid of the job search process! You can land your dream job with the right tools and strategy. You can find a job that won't give you nightmares. Here are three spooky secrets every job seeker should know as they look for a job this fall.

1. An Effective Job Search Starts With An Interview Bucket List

Despite your fears, you've decided to take the plunge and look for a new job. You might be asking yourself, "Where do I start?" The answer is simple: start by creating an interview bucket list.

An interview bucket list is a list of 10-20 companies you'd love to work for. Are you passionate about a company's products or services? Do you feel connected to its mission? Can you relate to its values and beliefs as an organization? If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, that company probably belongs on your interview bucket list.

Once you create an interview bucket list, you'll be able to conduct a targeted job search, one with direction and a foundation upon which everything else will be built. An interview bucket list helps you focus your job search and networking strategies on the right opportunities, making it easier to get your foot in the door at one of your dream companies.

2. Your Job Application Needs To Disrupt Hiring Managers

In order to stand out in the hiring process, you need to disrupt recruiters and hiring managers. You accomplish this by doing two things: optimizing your resume and writing a disruptive cover letter.

A well-optimized resume includes keywords from the job description. This ensures your resume gets past the ATS and into the hands of the hiring manager. Once it's in front of the hiring manager, it needs to grab and keep their attention. Quantifying your work experience—adding numbers to your bullet points—will make you stand out from other applicants. Hiring managers will want to know more about you and your accomplishments, and that's how you land a phone interview.

Before that, though, a hiring manager will read your cover letter. To disrupt them, you need to write a disruptive cover letter (obviously!). A disruptive cover letter gives you the opportunity to tell a story about why you feel connected to the company you're applying for. It's that storytelling aspect that will stand out to hiring managers and compel them to pick up the phone and give you a call.

3. Employers Hire You Based On 3 Things

You can't get hired unless you know what employers are assessing you on in the interview process. While your skills and expertise matter, companies actually hire for three things: personality, aptitude, and experience (in that order).

Most job seekers don't realize how important it is to demonstrate their personality, aptitude, and experience in an interview. You could have the right experience for a job, but if the hiring manager doesn't think your personality is a good fit for the company culture, you probably won't get a job offer.

Make sure you demonstrate your soft skills and learn how to answer behavioral interview questions to prove you're the best candidate for the job you're applying for, not just the most qualified.

Want To Learn More Job Search Secrets?

As you look for a job this fall, it might be helpful to know some more spooky secrets so you can get over your job search fears and finally take control of your career.

We know the job search process can be scary. However, it's important to get clear on what you want to do next and focus on conducting a strategic job search, or what we refer to at Work It DAILY as job shopping. This is the only way to effectively market yourself to employers. If they can't see exactly where and how you add value, then that's going to decrease your chances of landing the job.

The competition is fierce, and there are a lot of factors that are out of your control. But the one factor you can control is your job search strategy, the tools and tactics you use to land a job.

If you want to learn the secrets to conducting a strategic job search, sign up for our Job Search Bootcamp, a two-hour, on-demand video workshop that comes with a free workbook.

In this video workshop, you'll learn:

• How to use backchanneling to get directly to hiring managers.
• The secret to using a connection story to stand out against the competition.
• How social media can be your secret weapon to get job interviews.
• The resume format that is getting job seekers more job interviews.
• And, a lot more hacks for job search success!

Let us show you the secrets to getting a new, better-paying job you actually love. Sign up for our Job Search Bootcamp today.

Are you ready to land the job of your dreams (and leave the job of your nightmares)?

So, you received a call back for an in-person interview. Now what? The week leading up to the in-person interview deserves more effort and preparation than any other portion of the job search process. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing for an interview.

The Day You Are Offered The Interview

These are some things you should do immediately after getting an interview:

1. Respond promptly - Waiting to respond may send a message that you're not interested (bad!) or have poor follow-up (also bad!). Respond promptly, thank the employer for the opportunity, and express your excitement without being over the top.

2. Ask about logistics - Aside from nailing down the location, it's generally acceptable to ask about the company's dress code and the names of those you'll be interviewing with. Avoid asking questions that you (or Google) can answer yourself (e.g., directions).

3. Clear your schedule - If you're currently employed or have other commitments, make sure the appropriate people know you will not be available on the day of your interview.

The Week Before The Interview

Your interview is a week away! Get prepared by doing the following:

1. Research the company - Even if you did this before applying for the job (which you should have!), it's time to revisit the company website, its blog and social media accounts, and recent news articles.

2. Research the hiring managers - If you know who the interviewers are, do a little research. Look for them on the company's team page and on online networks like LinkedIn. Try to get a feel for who the interviewers are and for the type of person the company employs.

3. Decide what to wear to the interview - Don't wait until the night before. Try on your interview outfit, ask others for their opinion, and make sure you don't need a trip to the dry cleaner or cobbler.

The Day Before The Interview

In order to be completely prepared for your interview, make sure to do these things the day before:

1. Review the job posting - It will be far easier to tailor your interview answers if the job description is fresh in your mind.

2. Practice answering common interview questions - There are certain questions you can expect to be asked during a job interview. Look up the generic ones as well as ones specific to your industry, then rehearse them with a friend, family member, or patient pet.

3. Prepare questions for the employer - At the end of an interview, you will be given the opportunity to ask questions. It's an important part of the interview and the questions you ask could make or break your chances of landing the job offer, so put some serious thought into them.

4. Map the directions - One of the last things you want to do is be late for your interview. Find how long it should take you to get there, then give yourself plenty of extra time in case you get lost, stuck in traffic, or detoured.

5. Gather your day-of materials - Even if the hiring manager doesn't ask, it's common practice to bring enough copies of your resume for yourself and for each of the interviewers. You should also bring a pen and paper to take notes, as well as anything else specifically requested by the employer. Other things to consider include mints, grooming materials, money for parking, and a backup interview outfit (just in case you spill your Starbucks all over your lap).

6. Do the obvious things - Go to bed at a reasonable hour and set at least one alarm.

7. Think positively - Visualizing a positive outcome has a surprising impact on real-life performance. Think about past successes and envision, in detail, a stellar interview in your mind.

What steps do you take when preparing for an interview? Try the ones above and walk into your next interview with confidence. Good luck!

If you need more help preparing for your next job interview, we're here for you.

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Even when you have the education and professional background to qualify for the job, don't count on it as a sure win that you will be asked to come in for an interview. In fact, your qualifications may hinder your chances.

It's very common in today's market for employers to dismiss a job applicant's resume because they are “overqualified."

Sometimes there's an abundant supply of highly qualified candidates but not enough jobs to go around for everyone. In those cases, job seekers may resort to applying for positions where the level of expertise required on the job is below their previous position's requirements. In addition, those making a career change often need to seek out entry-level positions, where there may be more job opportunities.

The challenge for job seekers is not simply competing with so many other applicants but finding a fine balance of information to place on their resume without coming off as overqualified. Employers are mostly concerned that if you take a lesser position you will leave once you find a position that is more commensurate with your skills.

Here are a few tips to help guide you in preparing your resume for the next job opportunity and avoid coming off as overqualified and ruining your chances of landing the job offer.

1. Only Include Relevant Work Experience

Focus on what the employer is looking for and show them you can do it. If some of your management experience is not a part of their job description, then don't mention it. This tip is especially critical for applicants moving from one career to another.

For instance, if you had your own mortgage or construction firm and are now just looking for a sales job, just speak about your experience driving sales. You can also change your title from "Owner" to "Sales Manager." As you list your professional experience, be sure to quantify your sales results.

2. Only Highlight Necessary Degrees

Many of today's positions require candidates to have a bachelor's or master's degree. If you continued to pursue education to obtain other degrees, earning you the title of Ph.D., M.D., or others, don't be so quick to include that information on your resume.

You have to ask if it is at all relevant to the job you are applying for. It's great if you moved on to obtain your Ph.D. in neuroscience, but if the employer's business and the job are focused on finance and accounting for toy manufacturing/distribution, your additional education will be of little relevance and may sway an employer to reconsider whether you are right for the position.

3. Explain Why You're The Right Candidate

Write a disruptive cover letter that tells a story about why you're passionate about the position, how you feel a connection to the company, and how your experience, skills, and talent make you the right fit. If there's a chance your resume comes off as overqualified, even after following the tips above, make sure to provide sufficient explanation in your cover letter.

Give the employer confidence that you are challenged by the opportunity and will be there a year from now. The employer needs to know that you are not simply taking the job because you can't find anything better. They also need to be assured you aren't going to be quick to run off to another job as soon as the market improves or another opportunity opens up that is more in line with your level of experience from your previous positions.

Your resume is a marketing tool to help get your foot in the door for an interview. Placing too much information or irrelevant information will only give the employer more reason to dismiss you. Carefully review the job posting and do your research to really understand what skills and experience are desired for the position so that you present your resume and qualifications in the best light. Not everything you've accomplished, regardless of how significant it is, is appropriate to include on your resume.

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Congratulations, you've scored the interview! But, now what? You're going to do your homework to research the company, practice your elevator pitch, and pick up your suit from the dry cleaners...exactly like your competition.

Getting an interview is a huge hurdle to clear and a wonderful sign that you're on the right track with your job search efforts. Now, it's time to shift your focus to becoming a rock star candidate.

Approach your interview with the expectation that your competition is equally qualified. Having the skills and wanting the job badly isn't going to cut it in today's market. You need to figure out specific ways to stand out and be interesting.

Here are some strategies to do exactly that...

1. Get Your Interviewer Talking​

We know that the more you make someone talk, the more interesting they'll think you are. Humans are funny like that. Use this knowledge to your advantage, and immediately engage all the people you meet in conversation—about themselves.

Whether it's the receptionist, the HR manager, or your future boss, ask people questions about themselves, and do as much as you can to draw them out. At the end of your interview, they'll have a much more positive impression of you.

2. Be Prepared With Interesting Questions

Don't ask the same old, tired questions as every other candidate. You can combine this strategy with the one above and ask your interviewer about their experience at the company or perspective about a hot new product or service.

You can also use this as an opportunity to flex your creative powers and ask questions that show you've not only done your homework and research on the company (and the people who work there) but that you went above and beyond to create solutions for the problems they're facing.

3. Be Prepared With Interesting Answers

Most people will answer situational and behavioral interview questions with straightforward examples from their career. It is very important to do this in your job interview and highlight the results you've achieved on the job. But the truth is, employers hire for three things: personality, aptitude, and experience—in that order. You need to let your personality shine through in the job interview in some way to show that you fit in with the company culture.

Differentiate yourself by being prepared to share stories from other areas of your life that are equally impressive. Did you survive a solo ride on your motorcycle to the Arctic Circle? Create a hip-hop website that gets hundreds of thousands of unique visitors per month? Start a non-profit to save a historic building in your hometown? Share those tales in ways that highlight your problem-solving skills, intrinsic motivation, and unique experience (and always relate it back to the job opportunity).

4. Show Off Your Style

Conventional wisdom says you should stick to neutral, conservative styles for your interview appearance. In general, it is best to go with classic suits and subtle accessories. But if you're the type of person who normally has some artistic flair to your look, you don't need to stifle it completely.

Choose one or two ways to let that style and personality shine through—a bright accessory, unique jewelry, or moderately funky hair. As long as you look professional, it's okay to have an accent.

5. Create A 30-60-90 Day Plan

When preparing for your interview, create an overview of how you plan to tackle your first 30, 60, and 90 days on the new job. This is called a 30-60-90 day plan, and it never fails to impress hiring managers.

If you've done your research on the company and position, you'll have a sense of what kind of strategy you'd employ to start adding value right away. Write it down on a page or two, and pull it out at the end of the interview to leave behind as a form of marketing collateral for you, a business-of-one.

6. Mind Your Body Language: Mirroring & Power Poses

Interviews are stressful, and it's easy to get tense and physically awkward. Pay attention to your interviewer's body language and do your best to mirror it. Mirroring tends to disarm people and make them feel more comfortable with you.

To really impress them, use power poses immediately before your interview, in private, and avoid weak poses at all costs. Everyone's subconscious will perceive you in a more flattering, confident light.

What have you done to be interesting in job interviews? Are there techniques that you've found to be particularly successful? If you think you need to work on being more interesting in job interviews, try one or more of these tips during your next job search to stand out from the competition!

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Sometimes, knowing what not to do in your job search is just as important as following the "best practices." From my experience as a career coach, I've seen countless professionals make common mistakes that can sabotage a job search. So, before you send out another application or head into your next interview, let’s talk about the five things I absolutely wouldn't do if I were looking for a job right now.

If I lost my job due to a layoff, wanted to change careers, or hated my current job, I would not do these five things in my job search...

1. I Wouldn't "Spray And Pray"
@j.t.odonnell 5 things I wouldn't do if I was looking for a new job right now... #5things #careeradvice #resume #linkedin #sprayandpray #careertok #jobsearch #edutok #jobtok #jobsearchtips ♬ original sound - J.T. O'Donnell

I would not get on a job board and start applying for everything under the sun. First of all, you don't want 90% of those jobs and there's nothing more demotivating and depressing than getting rejected from companies you weren't interested in. That's exactly what's going to happen. The average job seeker has a 10%-30% job application response rate, and 75% of resumes are automatically rejected by the ATS (source). So, don't rely solely on job boards, and don't apply for every job you see. It's ineffective and a waste of time.

2. I Wouldn't Create An Over-The-Top Resume

An over-the-top resume is a resume where you put everything you've ever done on it. You really try to hype yourself up. Unfortunately, it comes across as narcissistic and desperate. It's also difficult to read and usually gets you tossed. Instead, customize your resume for each position you apply for, and focus on quantifying your work experience.

3. I Wouldn't Ignore LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the number one place recruiters search for potential job candidates, and they search for them based on keywords (skill sets). So, if you want to get found by recruiters and hiring managers, you need to learn how to optimize your LinkedIn profile.

4. I Wouldn't Skip Interview Prep

I would be practicing for an interview right now before even starting to look for a job. You need to know how to answer those tough interview questions because it'll help you stand out, and it can help you not only get the job but also a higher salary. Never skip interview prep, no matter how qualified you think you are.

5. I Wouldn't Forget Networking

Your network is your net worth. What you need to do is create a bucket list of employers you'd like to work for and start strategically reaching out and connecting with those people on LinkedIn as a way to gain visibility when you start applying for their roles. Networking is always the best way to get a job.

Of course, there are other tips and tricks I would recommend, but those are definitely the five things I wouldn't do if I were looking for a job right now.

If you would like to learn more about what you should and shouldn't do in your job search, sign up for a free Work It DAILY trial today.

Good luck! Go get 'em.

It can be very demanding to look for another job when your current one is constantly stressing you out. After all, when you get home from a long and frustrating day, the last thing you want to do is give any more thought to the world of work. Unfortunately, most new jobs don't just fall into your lap; you have to go out and get them.

Approaching your job search as strategically and as systematically as you would approach your next business deal can help keep the process manageable. Here are three keys to a successful job search.

1. Initiation

If you were going to start a huge new project at work, would your first step be to just sit down and start the project? Of course not! A lot of planning and preparation go into any major project, and your job search should be no different. Therefore, the first step is not to sit down and start sending out dozens of generalized resumes to any job that sounds like a relatively good fit.

Your first task should be to determine exactly what you're looking for in your next position. Just like you can't write a project plan until you know what the project is, you simply cannot write an effective resume or cover letter without some idea of where you'd like your career to go. You may find this part of the process to be the most time-consuming, as it requires some soul-searching. However, it's an essential step in the process that must not be skipped.

2. Planning

Once you've determined your professional goals, you're ready to spend some time assembling your marketing tools—a cover letter, resume, and any other pertinent documents that support your message (like an optimized LinkedIn profile). This is essentially the same process as setting up a project at work; you need both plans and human resources for an effective job search.

It's important to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job that you're applying for. In order to have a powerful resume, you have to lead with results and quantifiable accomplishments. This process takes time, so plan your schedule accordingly.

3. Execution

Only when you've established a goal and pulled together the tools needed to accomplish it should you actually start looking for and applying to jobs. Setting up email alerts through sites like Glassdoor or Indeed can save you hours of scouring through online job postings.

If you tackle your job search in a strategic and systematic manner, you should soon reach a place where you can go to your inbox, look through positions that may be a good fit for you, and then simply customize your polished resume for each application. Consider each quality job application you send off as a deliverable in the project of finding yourself another job. Whenever you successfully land your next position, you'll be able to close out this project and move on to the next one!

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In every interview, it's important to ask questions. This especially includes phone interviews.

Asking questions during any type of job interview makes you seem more intelligent and interested in the job. It also makes you more appealing to hiring managers—as long as you don't ask questions you could easily find the answers to. If you ask the right questions, you also gain a strategic advantage. You can find out what the interviewer really cares about.

So, what questions are the best ones to ask?

Here are four ideal questions to ask in a phone interview.

1. If you could choose the perfect job candidate, what qualifications, experience, or characteristics would that person have?

You can simplify this question in a couple of different ways:

• "What does your ideal candidate look like?"
• "What's on your wish list for an absolutely perfect candidate?"

Some job seekers are a little afraid to ask this question because they don't want to highlight their imperfections—but that isn't what this question does. Their answer gives you a blueprint of what they really hope to find, which means that you can tailor all your answers to their questions much more closely than you could without this information. Your responses will stand out from the competition.

2. Why did the last person in this role leave the job?

If the previous person was promoted, what was their next job title? Is that typical? Is that where you'd like to end up? What did they do to get promoted? These are things that could help you know how to be successful in the role and decide if it fits with your chosen career path.

If the person was fired or left the company, the reason why may give you valuable information as well.

3. What are the biggest challenges of this position?

Every position has a certain number of problems and challenges associated with it.

If you know what their biggest problems and challenges are, you can talk more effectively about how you can solve them and help the company. You'll sell yourself for the job.

4. From what you've told me, I think I'd be a great fit for the job and I'm very interested. When can we schedule a time to discuss this further?

In any interview, it's important to ask for the next steps. This question, or a version of this question, will allow you to show your excitement for the opportunity and eagerness to move forward.

By demonstrating your enthusiasm and interest, you'll automatically stand out to potential employers, and you'll actually give yourself a better chance of making it to the in-person interview.

Asking questions like these brings out information you can't learn anywhere else. They help you show your professionalism and interest in the job. Make a list of questions to ask and keep it in front of you during the interview. (That's one of the advantages of phone interviews—they can't see you.)

Along with these questions, you'll probably have a few more that specifically address that job. Just make sure to write them down so you don't freeze up and forget in the stress of the call.

When you take the time to prepare for your phone interview and formulate questions to ask, you increase your chances of getting invited to the in-person interview. And that's the goal!

Need more help acing your next phone interview?

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Howdy, LinkedIn tech enthusiasts! Saddle up for a wild ride with me through Austin's digital frontier, where innovation flows faster than the Colorado River. This is not your average tech roundup—we're diving into a city so wired that even the bats are coding! Austin's keeping it wonderfully weird and Windows-erful, y'all. I’ve compiled a list of 10 companies riding the Microsoft wave like pros at a rodeo. These mavericks aren't just on the edge of tech; they're redefining the whole darn landscape. So boot up and hold onto your ten-gallon hats—by the time we're done, you'll be connecting these trailblazers faster than you can say, "Remember the Alamo!"

1. Dell Technologies 

Dell Technologies, a global leader in IT infrastructure, has a strong presence in Austin. The company collaborates with Microsoft to enhance its cloud offerings, particularly through Azure integration. Dell's solutions provide seamless cloud management, data security, and hybrid cloud infrastructure, enabling businesses to accelerate their digital transformation journeys.

2. Indeed 

The job search giant Indeed utilizes Microsoft Azure and AI capabilities to enhance its platform's performance and user experience. By leveraging Azure's powerful analytics and machine learning tools, Indeed provides personalized job recommendations, improves search algorithms, and streamlines the hiring process for employers and job seekers alike.

3. Oracle 

Oracle, a global leader in enterprise software, has a significant presence in Austin and has been exploring innovative collaborations with Microsoft. The company has integrated its cloud services with Microsoft Azure, enabling customers to run Oracle software on Azure and Oracle Cloud. This partnership offers enterprises flexibility and choice in cloud infrastructure, providing robust solutions for database management, analytics, and enterprise applications.

4. RetailMeNot 

RetailMeNot, a leading digital savings destination, leverages Microsoft technologies to optimize its data infrastructure and enhance its product offerings. By migrating to Azure, RetailMeNot has improved its data processing capabilities, enabling real-time analytics and personalized offers. The company also uses Power BI for data visualization and reporting.

5. HomeAway (Vrbo) 

HomeAway, now known as Vrbo, is a vacation rental marketplace that uses Microsoft technologies to enhance its platform. By integrating Azure AI and machine learning, Vrbo has improved its search algorithms, personalized recommendations, and customer service. The company's use of Azure Cognitive Services also enhances fraud detection and prevention.

6. WP Engine

WP Engine, a leading WordPress digital experience platform, has partnered with Microsoft to provide scalable and secure hosting solutions. By leveraging Azure's cloud infrastructure, WP Engine ensures high availability and performance for its customers. The company's use of Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) also streamlines application deployment and management.

7. Bumble 

The popular dating app Bumble, founded in Austin, uses Microsoft Azure to power its backend infrastructure. Azure's scalability and reliability allow Bumble to support millions of users worldwide. The company also utilizes Azure's AI and machine learning capabilities to enhance its matching algorithms and improve user experience.

8. Spiceworks 

Spiceworks, a community-driven IT platform, uses Microsoft technologies to support its IT professionals' network. By leveraging Azure and Microsoft 365, Spiceworks provides seamless communication and collaboration tools. The platform also uses Azure AI to offer personalized content and recommendations to its users.

9. SailPoint 

SailPoint, a leader in identity management, collaborates with Microsoft to enhance its IdentityNow platform. By integrating with Azure Active Directory, SailPoint provides comprehensive identity governance and access management solutions. The partnership ensures seamless and secure access to applications and data for enterprises.

10. BigCommerce 

BigCommerce, an e-commerce platform, leverages Microsoft technologies to provide robust and scalable solutions for online retailers. By using Azure's cloud infrastructure, BigCommerce offers high availability and performance to its customers. The platform also integrates with Microsoft Dynamics 365, providing comprehensive CRM and ERP solutions.

Our digital cattle drive's over, and these Austin trailblazers are brewing Microsoft moonshine that'd make Lake Travis blush. From sky-high cloud solutions to AI smarter than a whip-cracking cowboy, they're lassoing digital transformation like the last bronco at the rodeo. As Austin's tech scene grows, bet your last taco that these Lone Star innovators and Microsoft will keep blazing trails. So, polish those LinkedIn profiles and Azure certs—in Austin, the next big tech breakthrough is just a HoloLens away. Remember, folks: here, they don't just go big—they disrupt industries and build smarter homes in the cloud!