On July 2, 2010, CNNMoney.com ran an interesting article about older job candidates. Click here to read the article. It stated that “Companies are starting to hire again, but many are turning their backs on older job seekers.” The piece went on to say, “The nationwide unemployment rate for older workers – while lower than that of younger workers – has barely moved since hitting a record high of 7.2% in December of 2009. Thi...

When you’re in a job search, it’s important to be crystal clear about the kinds of companies you’d like to work for. Once you have gained this clarity, you’ll want to research and identify the names of the companies that meet your search criteria. Your goal will be to “infiltrate” these companies through your network, and speak to the hiring managers (NOT the Human Resources department). Ultimately, this process will help y...

The most important questions of your interviews might be the ones you ask. In the interview, don’t think you’re the only one who is “on the spot.” It is perfectly acceptable for you to ask questions of the interviewer and to take notes throughout the meeting (which will help you to formulate your questions). When an interviewer asks, “So, do you have any questions for me?” the worst thing you could possibly say is “Nope.” I...

Winter was long and cold across much of the country, and for many people it was an extremely challenging period with regard to work, careers and job search. The news about the economy and job market continued to be negative and cynical throughout the season. But now, it’s April. Spring has finally arrived, and many aspects of our world seems to be lightening-up.With this in mind, I’ve decided to offer something quite differ...

Making Money While You’re in Career TransitionIf you’re out of work now, what part-time or flexible work can you do to fill the gap until you land the job you want? If you’re fully-employed but concerned about losing your job, what sort of opportunities could you pursue to earn additional income, should the need arise? The “Bridge Job Strategy” is a pragmatic approach to carry you through a difficult employment or financial...

Are you a leader?A leader generates his or her own opportunities. Leaders don’t whine and complain about the lack of opportunities to develop their careers. They CREATE opportunities – regardless of their current situation, regardless of their current boss, regardless of obstacles that may seem to stand in the way of developing their full potential.The following information is adapted from The 7 Hidden Reasons Employees Lea...

When there are many more workers than job openings, employers behave differently than they do in a healthy employment market. This is largely because the locus of control shifts from candidates to employers, and employers will have the sense that they can “call the shots.” These dynamics can pose serious challenges for job seekers. Under these circumstances, here are some of the typical challenges job seekers will face at m...

Over the past year, we’ve received a number of phone calls from parents of recent college graduates. This is unusual for two reasons: (1) we don’t usually work with clients in their twenties; and (2) these parents are seriously concerned about their children’s ability to start careers. Indeed, many parents are now paying our career coaching fees, to ensure that their kids will have every advantage in the transition from sch...

1. The most qualified candidate does not necessarily get the job offer.Many times, candidates with lesser qualifications get job offers simply because they’ve prepared and presented themselves in a more compelling way. They “package” themselves better, with an outstanding portfolio of career documents and oral presentation skills. The winning candidate is the one who knows how to tie his or her achievements, strengths and a...

As Summer Turns to Fall...Summer has traditionally been a fairly slow season for job seekers. In previous issues of “Your Career Advocate,” we’ve discussed how to take advantage of the “Summer Job-Search Doldrums,” and actually use this period to your advantage! Many clients have taken our advice to heart, and have generated great successes throughout the Summer months.As we mentioned a year ago in “Your Career Advocate,” C...