How to Explain Employment Gaps as a Result of COVID-19 Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 many great employees have encountered loss of employment. Some people maintain a false line of thought that it looks bad to be let go of a job, and that no one would believe that an employer would let go of an outstanding employee. However, that’s simply not true. During the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands have lost their jobs as a direct result of closure requirements, budget cuts, etc.  With the unemployment rate at ~8% in September 2020, it’s apparent that the caliber of employees were not taken into consideration when layoffs hit due to the global pandemic. This unemployment gap is not a blot on your resume, so don’t be discouraged. Here are some ways to help you explain an employment gap due to COVID-19. Be Honest First [...]

Job-hunting amidst COVID-19 can be a bit tricky, as we all adapt to our "new normal," way of doing things. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this unique experience of job hunting during a pandemic. Polish Your Resume A polished resume with a stand-out format will be sure to grab attention and get you the interviews you deserve. It's more important now than ever to have a well written and updated format to showcase your skills electronically. Since you may never actually meet the interviewer in person during COVID-19, your resume is your best tool to leave a good impression. Prepare for a Remote Interview The remote interviewing is new for most of us. But, if you do it well, you will be leaps ahead of your competition, since many people are uncomfortable with this kind of interview. [...]

What Does Your Resume Reflect About You? During a job search, first impressions are everything. Your resume is your first (and hopefully not only) chance to represent yourself to a potential employer. A well written resume should reflect your drive, your ambition, your experience, your accomplishments, your areas of expertise, your education, and your ambition. The last thing you want is your resume to be the equivalent of a cardboard, “Will Work for Food” sign. Whether you are an entry-level candidate, an executive, or anywhere in between–you need a well written resume to land a job. Our experienced and certified resume writers will make sure you’re accurately represented on your resume. We are here to make sure your resume conveys the value you have to offer—not just that you’re searching for employment. Think of your resume as your personal marketing too. [...]

There is one thing that trainers can’t teach, managers can’t force, and only you can control—that’s your attitude! In the workplace, there are many circumstances and outcomes outside of your control. However, your reaction, and your ability to remain positive is one thing you have total control over. Here are 3 Ways to Foster Positivity in the Workplace: Speak kindly of others. We all know that golden rule, if you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all. The thoughts we think and the words we speak make a big difference in our view of things. Make sure to give others the benefit of the doubt, and speak kindly of them. Give people kudos for a job well done, and keep your narrative positive when you speak of others. Show appreciation and say “thank you” more often. Kindness is [...]

It’s been said that work and personal life shouldn’t mix, but that can feel nearly impossible during times of personal crisis. It can feel very difficult to stay focused on work when problems in your personal life keep popping into your head or affecting your emotions. However, you have to perform your job functions or face serious consequences. Learning to march forward even when stress is overwhelming is key to career success. There’s no sure-fire way to push feelings aside at work; it just doesn’t work that way. But, here are some tips that may help you stay focused when it matters most. Give Yourself Grace & Time Give yourself some slack. Don’t add pressure and stress to your plate by feeling guilty or suppressing your emotions. If you feel a personal feeling cropping up during your workday, look at the [...]

It’s Labor Day weekend, which is a time for workers to relax and enjoy an extra day off work on Monday.  This is a time for us to remember that we have rights as laborers, and we deserve as well as need time off work. It’s so easy to become caught up in corporate America, and forget that we do not owe any employer our entire lives. We deserve a work-life balance as workers in this country. The holiday originated in the late 1800s when workers were expected to work long hours without days off work. Representative Lawrence McGann of Illinois, who sat on the Committee on Labor, argued for the holiday in a report submitted on May 15, 1894: The use of national holidays is to emphasize some great event or principle in the minds of the people by giving [...]

One of the most common interview question is, "Tell me about yourself." Open-ended questions like this often trip people up. They are designed to--it's a somewhat ambiguous question, and it's hard to understand what the interviewer is really asking. Don't find yourself ill-prepared in an interview. Use this question as an opportunity to outshine the rest. Plan to be asked the question. Brainstorm how to answer before your interview. Ask yourself the following questions: What is unique about my life that qualifies me for this position? Why am I interested in this role? Are my passions & interests in alignment with this position? How do my hobbies & community involvement relate to this role? Is there anything about my education or previous career experience that would help me excel in this position? Are the company's values and vision in alignment with [...]

So many people  fall into the trap of overthinking job descriptions. It can feel overwhelming for job seekers to read an exhaustive rundowns of job duties. Keep in mind that at most major corporations, the job description is not created by the hiring manager. They are usually written by someone in human resources who has never worked a day in the actual position. Job descriptions use corporate jargon and can sound scary. But, don't shy away from a job application entirely based on its description. A solid work history, positive attitude, and willingness to learn will go a long way with hiring managers. We can help you convey through your resume, cover letter, and interview coaching that you are able to manage the essential responsibilities for the job and learn the rest. Or, even if you think the company looks great [...]

It’s hard to believe it's already that time of year again— To go Back to School or Not to? That is the Question. Is continuing an education or finishing a degree really worth your precious time and money? College fees are expensive, and it' natural to wonder if you will you get a return on your investment. According to this LA Times article, studies show that college graduates earn 84% more than high school grads! And, those graduate degrees earn an average of $17k more per year than those with a bachelor’s degree according to “The Economic Value of College Majors,” a 2015 study by Georgetown University. The same study showed that on average, a doctoral degree-holder will earn $3.3 million over a lifetime, compared to $2.3 million for a college graduate and $1.3 million for those with a high school [...]

Many people are afraid to say “no” at work and think that management just want a “yes person". But, sometimes saying no will earn you respect and even benefit your organization. While it's true that saying “yes” can increase opportunities and keep you in a favorable light with some, sometimes saying “no,” is still the right thing to do at work. If you say "yes" to everything that comes across your desk, you will end up struggling and most likely failing to fulfill all your promises. Instead, stay focused on your top priorities, and say no to anything that is not in line with your goals. It may sound counterintuitive, but in order to be a good team player sometimes you have to say "no" to some meetings or tasks. You will not be good at anything if you are stretched [...]