Thea Kelley on Informational Interviews

Thea Kelley on Informational Interviews I love informational interviews. Maybe you didnt get that: I LOVE INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS! If there is any shortcut in a job search, it is doing informational interviews well.  If you are looking for a silver bullet, look no further.  This is it. Thea Kelley is a savvy career services professional and friend.  She recently wrote this post: Informational Interviews: 10 Tips for Success.  Her model for an informational interview is more formal than mine is, and I say never, ever do number 3 on her list but everything else is pretty solid. Come up with your own system, and your own rules, but DO these!  Its fun, it can be immensely productive, and it can really help you get closer to someone who will have a big impact in your job search. One thing she is missing, and its one of the most important parts of the interview, is asking for introductions to others.  Do you know anyone else in this company (or, this industry) that I should talk to?  Or, Can you introduce me to any (insert job title here) here (at this company)?  Or, ask for introductions within the industry. You go to build trust, which is her #1, and with that trust you should get to a point where they feel comfortable saying sure, Ill introduce you to one of my coworkers, or someone they met at the association luncheon, or someone they know online, or someone at one of your target companies. And then do it again, with that person. Have real conversations its not all about getting introductions, but thats a big reason you are there. Thea Kelley on Informational Interviews I love informational interviews. Maybe you didnt get that: I LOVE INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS! If there is any shortcut in a job search, it is doing informational interviews well.  If you are looking for a silver bullet, look no further.  This is it. Thea Kelley is a savvy career services professional and friend.  She recently wrote this post: Informational Interviews: 10 Tips for Success.  Her model for an informational interview is more formal than mine is, and I say never, ever do number 3 on her list but everything else is pretty solid. Come up with your own system, and your own rules, but DO these!  Its fun, it can be immensely productive, and it can really help you get closer to someone who will have a big impact in your job search. One thing she is missing, and its one of the most important parts of the interview, is asking for introductions to others.  Do you know anyone else in this company (or, this industry) that I should talk to?  Or, Can you introduce me to any (insert job title here) here (at this company)?  Or, ask for introductions within the industry. You go to build trust, which is her #1, and with that trust you should get to a point where they feel comfortable saying sure, Ill introduce you to one of my coworkers, or someone they met at the association luncheon, or someone they know online, or someone at one of your target companies. And then do it again, with that person. Have real conversations its not all about getting introductions, but thats a big reason you are there.

How to Find Resume Writing Classes Online

How to Find Resume Writing Classes OnlineIf you are looking for information on what are some good ways to learn resume writing, then you should take a look at the many class options available online. The availability of resume writing classes is growing everyday, thanks to the popularity of online learning over the past few years. As more people have been able to take advantage of the benefits of these courses, they are quickly becoming the preferred method for learning this skill.There are various different forms of courses available online. For the most part, the curriculum will be based around the same structure, but they will vary based on the type of course you choose. In general, however, it is best to go with a program that focuses on only one or two basic concepts. This will help you focus on the most important areas that you need to make sure you cover in your first course.Looking for the right resume writing classes is only half the battle. You also need to ensure that you can find an instructor that is qualified and licensed. In order to do this, you should find a local school that offers this type of course. This will help you get a better feel for the instructor and his or her qualifications, as well as their track record in the field.Now that you have an idea of what kind of instructor you need to attend to get the skills you need, you should take some time to find out if you can attend any seminars or workshops that are offered by the business that you are interested in. There are some business owners who offer seminars that are relevant to your field. With their input, you can pick up tips and tricks you might not have thought of otherwise.Another way to get good at resume writing is to get some experience. In addition to looking for classes online, you should check your local newspapers and classifieds. In some cases, you may be able to find employment at some companies that have a department devoted to this type of resume writing. It is a good idea to start with a small job before you venture out into larger assignments.Try to take an active role in the process as much as possible. This is also a great way to meet other people and learn from them as well. Another tip for students who want to make sure they do not miss out on valuable information is to make sure that they invest in some writing tools like a laptop and a computer.This does not mean that all you need is a word processor and a pen to learn about resume writing. There are software programs that can help you be efficient when learning this skill. And this will allow you to learn the skills at your own pace instead of having to complete your assignments as fast as possible.Keep in mind that career guidance and education are a valuable asset for anyone in need of it. Take advantage of the many resources available online to help you build a career that will be satisfying for you. Make sure that you invest in your education today so that you can keep your career o n track in the future.

10 Books to Unwind with This Memorial Day

10 Books to Unwind with This Memorial Day It’s almost Memorial Day and let’s face it: us busy girls need a break from our nonstop grind. We rounded up the crème-de-la-crème of reading escapes to add to your weekender bag this May that will transport you to another life and far away from your social media, computer and daily hustle â€" you’re welcome: 10 Books To Unwind With This Memorial Day. Its Always the Husband by Michele Campbell Or is it? That’s the question ladies will be asking themselves as they race through this absorbing novel about three best friends and the drama that explodes when one ends up dead (especially when one of them urged the other to jump off a bridge). A stunning whodunit trifecta of suspense, unpredictable twists and troubling turns, there isn’t a chance you’ll return to work without finishing this one. Into the Water by Paula Hawkins Have you been seeking adrenaline-inducing suspense ever since you finished The Girl on the Train? Us too. Thankfully the author of our book obsession is delivering us with yet another rollercoaster ride this summer and we guarantee you’ll consume it in one sitting. When a string of dead women are discovered at the bottom of a lake, a mystery unfolds…one that will surely leave every reader spooked all summer long. In This Moment by Karma Brown When wife and mother Meg Pepper beckons a teenage boy to cross the street, disaster strikes â€" he is hit by a car. Burdened by the heavy weight of guilt, she stays by the boy and his father during the entire rehab process (even when she begins to develop feelings for the latter). An emotionally gripping exploration on how one tiny decision can transform multiple lives, In This Moment is the most thought-provoking reading adventure of the season.   The Best of Adam Sharp by Graeme Samsion Warning: your heart will encounter major warming when devouring this breathtaking adventure. A former pianist has a second chance at love when his old actress flame knocks on his door nearly two decades after he let her go…but will he bite? A dazzling story about second chances and the art of taking risks at midlife, The Best of Adam Sharp will leave you ready to seize those chances never taken. This is Just My Face Stare by Gabourey Sidibe Wittingly penned by Oscar-nominated actress and Empire star Gabourey Sidibe, this inspiring memoir will leave you ready to make your own dreams come true. A touching personal account on the tough climb to Hollywood in the face of relentless diversity, This is Just My Face Stare will pierce every fierce feminist’s heart straight to the core and leave her ready to hustle even harder. Navigating Life by Margaux Bergen Let’s face it: us ladies all need a little help overcoming life’s mountains and hurdles (sometimes). Well, this is the stunning and honest guide to life we’ve all been waiting for. A refreshingly honest and emotionally honest book written by a mother and given to her daughter on the first day of college, chances are this enchanting guide will leave readers in tears, laughs, and in inspiring bouts of every feeling in between. Woman No. 17 by Edan Lepucki  Intense female friendships, dysfunctional families and the drama-filled hills of Hollywood â€" yes, that’s the literary recipe for one of your favorite 2017 reads. From bestselling author Edan Lepucki comes a darkly twisted tale about destructive relationships and the dangers of harboring secrets. Every drama-loving reader will fervently devour this dazzling and mesmerizing novel. The Simplicity of Cider by Amy E. Reichert The peaceful life of a reclusive cider-maker is interrupted when a hunky man and his son turn up at her orchard’s doorstep…both of them escaping the heartbreak of home. A fiercely emotional story on family loyalty and giving in to the sweet desires of the heart (even when inconvenient),The Simplicity of Cider is soul-food for any sentimental girl boss this summer. The Saturday Evening Girls Club by Jane Healey Four young immigrant women in Boston use their weekly pottery making group as a setting to launch their dreams, ambitions and heart’s true desires. From the first word to the last, this unputdownable novel celebrates the art of overcoming oppression, cultural prejudice and the embracing the strength found in female friendships. This summer’s most inspiring read for females, The Saturday Evening Girls Club is mandatory reading material for every feminist. Since We Fell by Dennis Lehane When journalist Rachel Childs has an on-air meltdown, she enters seclusion which she thought would last forever…then fate and conspiracy intervenes. A richly thick and adrenaline-inducing plot that combines complex characters with lethal secrets, Since We Fell is a true summer page-turner.

The top 7 excuses clients make for not paying their invoices (and how to get past them)

The top 7 excuses clients make for not paying their invoices (and how to get past them) We’ve all been there. You’re looking to wrap up a contract but the customer is refusing to pay for work done. In these circumstances it’s important to remain professional whilst still finding a way to get past client excuses for not paying invoices. There are a number of simple strategies for dealing with clients who refuse to pay, and today I’m going to run through the top 7 excuses clients make, and how to get past them. 1. “I cant afford to pay you until my customers pay me.” This is a very common excuse, particularly when dealing with small businesses â€" and yes, sometimes there can be some truth to it if the business is struggling with managing cashflow. But this is definitely not an excuse that justifies not paying at all. The best way to deal with this excuse is to suggest the customer pays in instalments. This will allow you to open the lines of conversation with them, strengthen your relationship by showing that you can be sympathetic with the trials of running a business, but still be on your way to recouping your debt. 2. “I haven’t received the invoice.” At times this excuse can stem from disorganisation (maybe they genuinely have not seen your invoice), but it’s also just a go-to excuse for many customers refusing to pay for work done. There are a couple of ways to mitigate the risk of not being paid here. The first is to set up email read receipts early in your relationship with clients so that you can see when the emails with invoices have been opened. The second is to follow up your emails and reminder letters with phone calls to guarantee that your invoices have been received, and noted by someone at the business. 3. “We’re in the process of changing banks.” Whilst unlikely (it seems a little too convenient for the client to be changing banks at the exact time that you’re chasing payment), this excuse is credible. But in the modern world there are more ways to receive payment than the good old bank transfer. One of your first ways around this excuse should be to request a PayPal or credit card transaction â€" both these facilities should be readily available to your client. If this doesn’t work, or if those attempts are rejected, ask for a concrete payment date and advise them that a debt collector will be engaged immediately after that date. 4. “We’ve been liquidated” The very first thing you should do if someone gives you this excuse is to check the truth of their claims. You can do this either by speaking to other businesses or people you know who do business with that client, or you can check a company’s liquidation status through the ASIC website. If it is indeed true, you need to find out who the liquidators are and lodge a debt claim with them immediately. 5. “Our accountant is on holidays/has made a mistake.” Put simply, this is not your problem. Learning to manage cashflow is one of the most basic aspects of running a business â€" including managing contractors and ensuring they get paid. So if someone pushes blame for non-payment onto their accountant, you are well within your rights to request a concrete date of payment and to politely notify your client that if payment has not arrived by that date, a debt collector will be immediately engaged. 6. “I think we did pay, I’ll look over it” (faux disorganisation) If a client uses this excuse, there is a very simple resolution. Phone them directly, assure them you have not been paid and ask them to check. Tell them you’ll hold while they confirm. They should be able to very quickly bring their accounts up and say for sure whether the payment has been made. If they can’t for some reason, it should take them an absolute maximum of 24 hours to respond definitively. When they confirm that they have not paid, ask them to pay within two days and inform them that if payment has not been received by that time, a formal debt collection process will be started. 7. “I’m not paying, there’s a mistake in the work!” In these circumstances, you always want to remain professional and to avoid burning any bridges. The client was not happy? Why? When did this come to light and why was it not mentioned earlier in the relationship? Keep the dialogue open, identify the issues and work out a way to resolve the situation that is agreeable for all parties â€" then ask for payment again. In doing this, it’s important to keep written details of conversations so that you will have solid records to rely on should the situation escalate. If you reach an impasse, refer back to your contract â€" outline how the work you’ve done fulfils the contract requirements and again, ask for payment. Dealing with clients who refuse to pay can be tricky. You walk a fine line between not wanting to damage relationships by calling out excuses, but you still need to get paid. It can be incredibly frustrating, but by using the strategies above you will be able to get past client excuses for not paying invoices while still maintaining good client relationships. A professional debt collector can help you with this.

How to Write a Resume

How to Write a ResumeFor anyone with a desire to get into the position of employment in the USA, a resume should be the first point of contact. This is a reflection of your ability to perform the job of a potential employee.You need to put into consideration the information that you have previously gained and put them into a format that is easy to read, to identify the relevant experiences and work experience in your mind. It is advisable to research the US employment requirements to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations that are specific to your career. This will give you an insight as to how to write a resume that is competitive and meets the requirements for employment.Understanding the method of how to write a resume is essential. The format is important since it determines the effectiveness of the document. You should strive to put all your qualifications into one convenient package that is easy to read and understand. The format should be consistent with the way y ou present yourself and other details on your resume.A resume that goes beyond the requirement of getting a job in the USA is vital. A resume that includes business or professional experience, when they are acquired abroad, should be put in an editor and translated into English so that they can be utilized by employers.The most important thing in writing a resume is that you put in focus all the important points of your career. You should highlight what makes you unique and which skills, skills that you possess that are unique to your profession. This will make your resume look impressive.If you have any experience in another country, be sure to add it to your resume. It will give your employers the impression that you are competent in dealing with other people and have the ability to adapt to different situations.The next thing you need to do is to prepare your cover letter. It should include a strong request for interview and a statement of your interest. Then you need to include the entire information about your career in the employment application package.Any well-written good resume will give you an edge in the job market. So, start preparing your resume today.

Job Board Mania What to Do

Job Board Mania â€" What to Do There are so many job search sites on the Internet, including Monster.com, CareerBuilder.com, and Indeed.com, that its hard to know where to turn. Which ones are best? Whats the best way to use them? Job boards are fantastic tools, as long as you think of them as tools and not solutions. What should you use them for? Research: When you are just starting out and trying to articulate your next-job goal, use job boards to find 10 job descriptions that meet your criteria. Don’t apply! Print them, spread them out on a table or the floor, and study them. Highlight the key words used and learn how to “speak the language.” This analysis will help you create your cover letters and may trigger word edits you want to make on your résumé. For example: if your target industry or function uses “business development” in their job descriptions, yet you have “sales development” in your résumé, change it! Opportunities: Eliminate the excuse that “there are no jobs out there.” You will not only find that there are thousands of jobs, but that there are more than enough that you are qualified for. Remember, we hiring managers write job descriptions for the perfect person, someone who does not exist. Don’t rule yourself out if you meet 80% of the requirements! Application: Even though networking is the best way to get your credentials on the hiring manager’s desk, you also need to go through the formal application system for the jobs you want. So do apply and log those applications in your Job Search Tracker so you can follow up. There are so many job boards out there, including many specializing in niches, such as part time, health care, or even candidates with government security clearance! I’ve compiled a free resource guide to help you get started. Glassdoor.com is also a great free resource for salary information and much more. Don’t forget the jobs listed on your local Business Journal website under “Jobs”!

FAST personality test - The Chief Happiness Officer Blog

FAST personality test - The Chief Happiness Officer Blog How about an MBTI test that only takes a couple of minutes? I tried it, and in just four questions it figured out that Im an ENFP. Ive tried other MBTI tests that had a lot more questions, and they gave the same result. Try it. Thanks for visiting my blog. If you're new here, you should check out this list of my 10 most popular articles. And if you want more great tips and ideas you should check out our newsletter about happiness at work. It's great and it's free :-)Share this:LinkedInFacebookTwitterRedditPinterest Related