Sometimes we are fortunate enough to know exactly what our next job possibility will look like. We can be specific and tailor ourselves accordingly. We know what is expected of this particular role, down to the letter, and can be sure to market our personal brand so that we stick out as the best candidate for the job.   Other times, however, we are left without many details. We can use the company’s website, social media, and inside sources to gather more general info about the ins and outs of the company, but we are still somewhat clueless as to the specific details. This possible job opportunity remains a bit of a mystery in regards to the day-to-day requirements.   In this instance, you must still be prepared to submit an extraordinary resume, even if you do not have all of [...]

In a world where everything is done electronically, do you ever miss the personal touch? The impact made in building relationships face-to-face rather than screen-to-screen.   Recent statistics, released by MarketWatch, show that much of the job-seeking population is frustrated and disappointed with online job search technology. Some even went as far as claiming that the process online was depressing. It’s the act of going in blind. The aspiring job candidate must attempt to investigate and connect with potential employers and coworkers from a blind spot where you know no one. Although some of us do not have the luxury of doing business any other way, others might benefit from unplugging every now and then and taking the old-fashioned approach.   At Platinum Resumes, we are proud to embrace both sides. We do communicate largely with our clients via technology and [...]

What an exciting feeling to have finally caught a glimpse of what looks to be the perfect job! As you scroll through the job description, you are growing more and more excited about the potential you are seeing. But, then….you get to the ugly part, the qualifications. The job sounds ideal, and you can definitely see yourself doing great work for this company. However, how can you get past this tricky issue regarding your lack of qualification?   Some scratch a potential job from their list upon realizing that they are underqualified, but we, at Platinum Resumes, are here to assure you that you shouldn’t be so hasty. Sure, being underqualified for a potential job is a hurdle to consider, but it doesn’t have to be a stop sign. There are many men and women who are building successful careers off [...]

As the temperatures continue to rise outdoors, we are all tempted to wear less to compensate for the heat. That fact combined with getting relaxed within our current work environment can create a dangerous combination. A recent survey completed by the office of Robert Half found some alarming statistics when it comes to this area of concern. Results concluded that 47% of Senior Managers identified the overuse of casual clothing as the most common dress code violation. Over a third of the same managers surveyed shared that their employees showed too much skin and wore less formal clothing than they did five years prior. In a similar survey by Robert Half, 80% of executives reported that clothing choices could definitely impact an employee’s chances of being promoted. Slacking off when it comes to dress code can potentially put your job at [...]

When you stop to think about the idea of putting yourself out there as a potential job candidate, what are you really doing? You are selling a product. That product, in this case, is you. With every piece of documentation and communication that you share with potential employers, you are telling your story. Your unique combination of skills, experience and personality traits are being combined to create an advertisement that you will use to make known your personal brand.   When you are building a career, this is a helpful way in which to examine yourself. You have the opportunity to develop a way in which people think about you. No one else can offer the unique package that you bring to the table. Your skills and strengths, experience and knowledge, and personality and attitude are combined as a valuable force [...]

When is the last time that you’ve stopped to really evaluate the work that you do? Do you go throughout your day at your job mindlessly or with purpose? Many of us who spend long hours and days toiling away at our jobs rarely stop to consider the value and meaning that our work brings to our lives and to the lives of others.   The meaningfulness of our work, or lack thereof, can either bring a deep feeling of satisfaction to our lives or can present a void. Of course, we all have bad days. Sometimes coworkers are hard to deal with or current projects are just tremendously overwhelming. We have family stuff going on back at home that keeps us distracted at the office.   However, although there are factors that can sometimes cause problems in the workplace, there [...]

This week, let’s take a minute to fully grasp the power behind the words we use. Words which we may have intended to bring great impact, or words that just slipped out in the midst of a mindless utterance. Maybe what was said was fully thought through before spoken, or maybe not. Maybe your words were carefully chosen in the middle of a loving conversation and meant to bring encouragement. Maybe your words were screamed in a fit of rage and every bit intended to be full of shame and disgust. Our words live on long after we’ve finished with them, and we often disregard the impact that they can have on others.   Our words, particularly in written form, serve as a very powerful tool when seeking a new job. Whether you are setting up a new profile on LinkedIn [...]

Let’s be honest. Being laid off is not a great feeling. There are not often positive emotions that follow such news, and it’s normal to need some space to vent. However, despite the strong temptation to unload your frustrations through your fingertips, social media is not the appropriate platform for showcasing your thoughts on the matter.   As we conclude our current blog series on Strategy for Transition Once Laid Off, we want to focus on your social media image. Remaining professional when it comes to social media is an important part of bouncing back and presenting yourself as a strong job candidate. Your Facebook and LinkedIn profiles are often the snapshot that your potential hiring manager will see long before they have decided whether or not they want to meet you face-to-face. That said, it is necessary to appear confident [...]

If you’re just joining us in our current blog series, we are covering the different angles of strategy to consider once you receive news of an impending layoff. There is a transition that must occur between one job and the next, and, if you choose to gain successful momentum in your career rather than come to a stagnant halt, then you should heed this advice for such a transition.   Whether your layoff came by surprise or has been on the horizon for some time, there are steps to be taken and a plan to be hatched for moving forward. Your resume should be dusted off and eloquently tweaked so that your strongest skills and assets are being clearly presented to those who read it. You do not want to just throw a little piece of this job and a little [...]

  Layoffs are currently sweeping the country, and many different types of industries are being affected by these cuts. Maybe you’ve just heard about it in the news, and it hasn’t really hit home with you yet. Or, alternatively, maybe a layoff has struck you in a very personal way – best friend, relative, or your very own company!   When this kind of news comes knocking at your door, it can be very easy to allow panic to slip in alongside it. Fear of the unknown is a very real thing, and it’s hard to keep at bay. However, if you or your loved ones intend to push through this difficult circumstance and continue toward a successful career, then you have to put intentional focus onto your next steps and shake off the fears and doubts.   This week on [...]