Category: applying for jobs

Why Generation Z Finds Thank You Letters After Interviews Overwhelming in the Job Search Process?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Article Discussed

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it’s essential to understand the perspectives and preferences of different generations. Generation Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, brings a unique set of attitudes and beliefs when it comes to professional interactions, including the customary practice of sending thank you letters after interviews.

In this thought-provoking video, we explore the reasons why many individuals from Generation Z perceive thank you letters as overwhelming or unnecessary in the context of the modern job search. We examine the following key points:

Efficiency and Time Constraints: Growing up in the era of instant communication and rapid information exchange, Generation Z values efficiency. With an array of communication tools at their disposal, they prefer quick and direct methods like email or social media to express gratitude. The idea of sitting down to write and mail a physical letter can seem time-consuming and outdated.

Authenticity and Personal Connection: Generation Z emphasizes genuine interactions and values building relationships based on meaningful connections. While thank you letters have traditionally been seen as a sign of respect and appreciation, some individuals from this generation believe that expressing gratitude face-to-face or through personalized emails provides a more authentic and impactful way to connect with interviewers.

Digital Communication Norms: With the prevalence of email, instant messaging, and social media platforms, Generation Z has adapted to a digital communication landscape where speed and brevity are valued. They are accustomed to concise and concise exchanges, and a handwritten thank you letter may feel like an unnecessary formality in an era of digital correspondence. The issue is that all communication is not suitable for the professional space. There has to be some distinction when it comes to communication, written or verbal.

Evolving Hiring Practices: The hiring landscape has evolved significantly in recent years. Many companies now prioritize efficiency and expedited decision-making processes. As a result, the significance placed on thank you letters may have diminished in the eyes of Generation Z, who may believe that interviewers place more weight on the interview performance itself rather than the follow-up letter. This type of assumption can actually cost you the job opportunity if another candidate is willing to write the “thank you letters” while others think it is old fashioned.

While it’s crucial to acknowledge the diverse perspectives within Generation Z, this video does not aim to dismiss or undermine the value of expressing gratitude or following traditional etiquette. Instead, it seeks to shed light on the changing attitudes towards thank you letters, offering insights into how the job search process is evolving in the digital age. Keep in mind, no matter how “evolved” the job market and professional spaces become, extending professional courtesy can still distinguish you from the rest when you are willing to go the extra mile and write the thank you letters after your interviews.

If you are looking for additional career insights and what makes you stand out from the crowd of other candidates, check out my individualized consultations here.

Looking for resume services, interview coaching and career strategy consultations? Go here.

Ready to have MentorShelly help you structure your business SOPs? Go Here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have an interview coming up and need a little help? Check out my resource here.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join the Facebook Group |

How to Conquer the Job Market After High School

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Congratulations, high school graduate! You have finally completed one of the most challenging stages of your life and are now ready to tackle the world that lies ahead. However, with the job market becoming increasingly competitive, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out how to succeed on your own. This is where I come in, your wise and witty guide, ready to give you the three must-have tips you need to set yourself up for success in the job market after high school. Buckle up, it’s going to be a fun and informative ride.

Build A Solid Resume
Your resume is your first impression, and it needs to be a good one. Start by ensuring that your contact information is current and easily accessible. Next, tailor your resume to fit the job you are applying for. Highlight your experiences and skills that closely match the job description. Don’t forget to include any volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities that could make you stand out. Lastly, proofread, proofread, proofread! Making silly grammatical errors on your resume can be a huge red flag for potential employers.

Network, Network, Network
People often say, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” and that couldn’t be truer in the job market. Networking is the key to unlocking job opportunities and gaining valuable insights into your industry. Attend job fairs, join professional organizations, and even connect with former teachers or alumni who are already working in your field of interest. You never know who could be a valuable connection down the road.

Don’t Be Afraid of Rejection
Let’s face it, rejection is inevitable. You could have the best resume and perfect interview skills and still not get the job you want. Remember, this is not a reflection of your worth as a person. Learn from the experience, ask for feedback, and keep trying. Persistence is key, and eventually, the right opportunity will come your way

Achieving success in the job market after high school graduation may seem daunting, but with these three tips, you are now well on your way to standing out in a competitive market. With a solid resume, an extensive network, and the power of persistence, you are equipped to take on any challenge that comes your way. So go out into the world, young grasshopper, and make your dreams a reality.

If you need help with creating your resume(s), building your network or strategies to find your next job, go here. I’d be more than happy to help you along in your career or job seeking journey.

Looking for resume services, interview coaching and career strategy consultations? Go here.

Ready to have MentorShelly help you structure your business SOPs? Go Here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have an interview coming up and need a little help? Check out my resource here.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join the Facebook Group |

Exposed Racist Hiring Practices: Was it Intentional or Accidental?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Article Discussed | EEOC Stance on Hiring Practices

Questions for Insight on these hiring practices:

1. Is this illegal to specify document your preference based on a protected class?

2. What does it mean to candidates that are qualified based on credentials alone vs the preferences listed on this company’s job opening?

3. What are the implications for this company truly implementing these types of “preferences” for their company?

4. If companies like this “mistakenly” place these preferences out there, can we imagine what the company culture is like?

5. Do you think it was truly the company’s intentions to source for their “preferences” or are the back pedaling because they were exposed due to the illegalities of their hiring practices?

6. How should this company be viewed going forward?

Folks, it’s 2023, and we’re still dealing with the same old story – companies placing restrictions on who can apply for a job based on their race, gender or ethnicity. It’s frustrating, it’s infuriating and it’s downright shameful. By the way, it’s also ILLEGAL! And it just goes to show that despite all the progress we’ve made as a society, discrimination is still alive and well in the hiring process. The latest example of this comes from a recent job ad posted by an IT company that specifically requested a “white male” candidate for their opening. Now, I don’t know about you, but something about that just doesn’t seem right to me. In fact, it sounds like someone needs to get a little lesson in basic anti-discrimination laws and policies.

But the question is, was this intentional or accidental? Did the company truly believe that only a white male would be qualified for the role, or was this simply a case of ignorance and misunderstanding? Frankly, I’m not sure which is worse. What I do know, however, is that this kind of blatant discrimination has no place in the modern workforce. It’s been a long time since people of color, women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community were limited in their job prospects due to biased hiring practices, and it’s time for companies to catch up and make the necessary changes.

Now, I’m not suggesting that companies should blindly hire anyone and everyone who applies for a position. Rather, they should evaluate each candidate based on their skills, experience, and qualifications, regardless of their race, gender, or ethnicity.

The fact is that diversity is essential for any organization to thrive. People from different backgrounds, with different experiences and perspectives, bring unique ideas and innovation to the table. By limiting hiring practices to just one group of people, companies are missing out on the wealth of talent and creativity that exists in our diverse society.

So, to the company responsible for this latest example of discriminatory hiring, I say shame on you. It’s time to wake up and get with the times. It’s time to embrace diversity and make your company a place where everyone is welcome and valued. And if you’re not willing to do that, well, then you deserve all the backlash you’re getting.

Looking for resume services, interview coaching and career strategy consultations? Go here.

Ready to have MentorShelly help you structure your business SOPs? Go Here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have an interview coming up and need a little help? Check out my resource here.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join the Facebook Group |

Is the Teaching Profession Too Demanding?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

 

Article | Video Review

Teachers are the backbone of our education system, but they often face challenges that can negatively impact their performance and wellbeing. Two of the most prevalent struggles that teachers face in their profession today are workload and student behavior. In this blog post, we will explore these struggles and provide strategies for resolving them strategically.

Workload

Teaching is a demanding profession that requires a lot of time and energy. Teachers have to plan lessons, grade assignments, attend meetings, and perform administrative tasks, all while managing a classroom full of students. This workload can be overwhelming, leading to stress, burnout, and a decline in the quality of education provided.

One strategy for resolving the workload struggle is to prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities. Teachers can use tools such as to-do lists, time-blocking, and task prioritization to manage their workload efficiently. They can also collaborate with other teachers, administrative staff, and parent volunteers to delegate some of their responsibilities. Additionally, using technology tools such as grading software and online resources can help reduce the workload while still providing quality education.

Student Behavior

Student behavior can be another significant struggle for teachers. Students may exhibit disruptive behavior, lack of motivation, and mental health issues, making it difficult for teachers to provide effective instruction. These issues can negatively impact the learning environment and student progress.

One strategy for addressing the student behavior struggle is to create a positive and inclusive classroom culture. Teachers can establish clear expectations and consequences for behavior, encourage active engagement, and provide opportunities for student voice and choice. They can also incorporate social-emotional learning (SEL) activities into their lessons to promote empathy, self-awareness, and positive behavior.

Another strategy is to collaborate with parents and other professionals. Teachers can communicate regularly with parents to address student behavior issues, seek support from school counselors and administrators, and collaborate with community organizations to provide additional resources.

Teaching is a challenging but rewarding profession. By addressing the struggles of workload and student behavior strategically, teachers can provide quality education and promote positive learning environments. By prioritizing tasks, delegating responsibilities, creating a positive classroom culture, and collaborating with parents and professionals, teachers can overcome these struggles and excel in their profession.

What other questions can help teachers improve their overall experience in their careers?

1. What innovative teaching strategies can be implemented to make learning more engaging and effective for students, and how can teachers be trained to utilize these techniques?

2. How can we improve the recruitment and retention of high-quality teachers, particularly in low-income or underserved communities, and what strategies have been successful in other countries or regions?

3. What policies or incentives can be put in place to encourage ongoing professional development for teachers, and how can we ensure that these opportunities are accessible to all teachers regardless of their background or experience?

4. In what ways can technology be leveraged to enhance the teaching profession, such as through online learning platforms, data analytics tools, or virtual reality simulations?

5. How can we address systemic issues within the education system that may hinder the success of teachers, such as inadequate funding, standardized testing, or the lack of support for social-emotional learning and mental health?

Looking for resume services, interview coaching and career strategy consultations? Go here.

Ready to have MentorShelly help you structure your business SOPs? Go Here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have an interview coming up and need a little help? Check out my resource here.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join the Facebook Group |

Make Your Career Dreams Come True!

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Making your career dreams come true is a journey that requires effort, patience, and resilience. It is not always easy, but with dedication and the right mindset, you can achieve your goals and find fulfillment in your work. Here are some tips to help you make your career dreams come true:

Define your career goals: The first step in making your career dreams come true is to define what those dreams are. Think about what you are passionate about, what you enjoy doing, and what kind of work you want to do in the future. Write down your goals and break them down into smaller, achievable steps.

Develop your skills: Once you have defined your goals, it is essential to develop the skills necessary to achieve them. Take courses, attend workshops, and seek out mentors who can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in your chosen field.

Network: Networking is crucial in making your career dreams come true. Attend industry events, connect with professionals in your field, and build relationships with people who can help you achieve your goals.

Stay positive: It is essential to maintain a positive mindset and stay motivated, even when things get tough. Remember why you started and keep your goals in mind as you navigate the challenges of building your career.

Take risks: Sometimes, taking risks is necessary to make your career dreams come true. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone and try new things, even if it means taking a chance on something that may not work out.

In conclusion, making your career dreams come true takes effort and perseverance, but with the right mindset and approach, you can achieve your goals and find fulfillment in your work. Define your goals, develop your skills, network, stay positive, and be willing to take risks. With these tips, you can make your career dreams a reality.

Looking for resume services, interview coaching and career strategy consultations? Go here.

Ready to have MentorShelly help you structure your business SOPs? Go Here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have an interview coming up and need a little help? Check out my resource here.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join the Facebook Group |

Discover How To Create a Resume That’ll Get You Hired in No Time!

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Your resume is often the first impression that potential employers have of you. Therefore, it’s imperative your resume stands out and catches their attention quickly.

Here are some action steps for writing a compelling resume that grabs the attention of employers and their representatives.

These resumes we hear so much about in the job market space represents us in important ways, so it’s vital to keep them working for us, when they’re structured properly. Let dive into ways we can make it compelling to get you the right type of attention.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description
Make sure your resume is tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Review the job description and identify the key skills, knowledge base, and qualifications that the employer is looking for. Then, highlight your own relevant experience and accomplishments that demonstrate those skills and qualifications distinctively.

Keep it Concise
Employers receive many resumes, so it’s important to keep yours concise and easy to read. Stick to one to two pages if possible and use bullet points to highlight your achievements, accomplishments and responsibilities in for each job. Do you best not to be wordy.

Use Strong Action Verbs
Use strong action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in each job. For example, instead of saying “responsible for,” use verbs like “managed,” “led,” or “created.” It shows you are a candidate of action, not just words.

Focus on Your Achievements
Don’t just list your job responsibilities, focus on your achievements and how you made a positive impact in each job. Use numbers and percentages to quantify your accomplishments, such as “increased sales by 20%” or “managed a team of 10 employees.” For example, you can communicate that you implemented a strategy that saved the company X number of dollars over the X timeframe.

Include Relevant Keywords
Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, so it’s important to include relevant keywords from the job description in your resume. This will help ensure that your resume gets past the ATS and in front of a human reader. It is the main reason you should tailor your resume for each job. The job description factors in heavily on whether your resume gets pass the ATS system, so edit your resume accordingly.

Highlight Relevant Skills to the Job You Are Applying
In addition to your work experience, highlight your skills and qualifications that are relevant to the job. This can include hard skills like proficiency in a particular software or programming language, as well as soft skills like communication and leadership. Any specific knowledge base relevant to the job should also be included.

Proofread and Edit
Before submitting your resume, make sure to proofread it carefully for errors and typos. You may also want to have someone else review it for you. A clean, error-free resume will show employers that you have attention to detail and care about presenting yourself in the best possible light.

A compelling resume is a key component to getting noticed by employers. By tailoring your resume to the job description, using strong action verbs, highlighting your achievements, including relevant keywords, and proofreading carefully, you can create a resume that will make a strong first impression and help you stand out from other candidates.

If you are looking for more extensive help with your resume(s), go to Live Resume Revision Consultation here to schedule your live resume consultation.
If you have general questions about your career path, interviewing, salary negotiation and other job-related topics, you can to go here. You can leave your voicemail or email and you will receive a response from me within 24 hours.

Looking for resume services, interview coaching and career strategy consultations? Go here.

Ready to have MentorShelly help you structure your business SOPs? Go Here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have an interview coming up and need a little help? Check out my resource here.
Connect with me here

Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube |

How to Increase Your Pay Through Effective Salary Negotiations

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Negotiating salary can be a daunting task for many job seekers, but it is an essential part of the job search process. Salary negotiation is an opportunity for you to advocate for your worth and ensure that you are being paid fairly for your skills and experience. In this blog post, I will provide three recommendations to increase your success with salary negotiations after an interview.

I just wanted to also mention that keeping the conversation about salary negotiation, I wanted to provide you with an additional resource from the live show I was honored to be interviewed by Ms. Cheree from “Black Women Making Money” youtube channel, you can find that live show here. I shared some intricately valuable resources to make your salary negotiation easier. You can also check out Ms. Cheree’s “Black Women Making Money” YouTube channel here.

Now let’s dive into today’s blog talking about three (3) recommendations when going into salary negotiations right after your job interview.

Research the Market Rate for Your Role

Before entering into salary negotiations, it’s important to have an understanding of the market rate for your role and location. This information can be found through online resources such as Glassdoor, PayScale, and LinkedIn Salary. By researching the market rate, you will be able to determine a realistic salary range that you can use as a basis for your negotiation.

It’s also important to take into consideration your level of experience and education, as well as any additional skills or certifications you bring to the table. By having a clear understanding of your value in the marketplace, you will be better equipped to negotiate a fair salary.

Practice Your Negotiation Skills

Negotiation is a skill that can be learned and improved upon with practice. One way to improve your negotiation skills is by role-playing with a friend or family member. In this scenario, you can practice your negotiation skills in a safe and supportive environment.

It’s also important to be confident and assertive during the negotiation process. You can demonstrate your confidence by maintaining eye contact, speaking clearly and confidently, and providing evidence to support your request for a higher salary. Remember that negotiation is a conversation, not a confrontation. Your goal is to find a mutually beneficial solution that works for both you and the employer.

If you need my help with navigating these and other salary negotiation strategies, you can go here to work with me directly.

Consider Alternative Forms of Compensation

Salary negotiations don’t always have to revolve around base salary. There are often other forms of compensation that can be negotiated, such as bonuses, stock options, or additional vacation days. If the employer is unable to meet your salary request, consider asking for these additional perks instead.

It’s also important to remember that salary negotiations are not just about the money. You can also negotiate for professional development opportunities, flexible work arrangements, or other benefits that are important to you.

In conclusion, negotiating salary can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s an essential part of the job search process. By researching the market rate for your role, practicing your negotiation skills, and considering alternative forms of compensation, you can increase your chances of a successful salary negotiation. Remember to approach the negotiation process with confidence and professionalism, and you will be well on your way to securing a fair salary for your skills and experience.

Looking for other services such as interview coaching, LinkedIn profile optimization and career strategy consultations? Go here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have a job interview coming up but need additional help to be successful with it? Check out the Interview Audio Program here that can help you navigate your next job interview with EASE.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join my Facebook group | Tiktok

Ford CEO Warns Employees About Possible Layoff – How does this affect you?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Article discussed in the video – Click here

The CEO of Ford Motor Company, Jim Farley, recently warned employees about the possibility of layoffs as the company navigates the challenging automotive industry and strives to remain competitive. This news has left many Ford workers and their families concerned about their future and their financial stability.

It’s important to understand the current state of the automotive industry and the reasons behind Ford’s decision to consider layoffs. The industry is facing numerous challenges, including a shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, as well as increased competition from new entrants like Tesla. To remain competitive, companies must invest heavily in research and development and make significant changes to their operations. This often requires reducing costs and restructuring the workforce.

As a Ford employee, it’s understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of layoffs. However, it’s important to remember that this is a common reality for many workers in industries undergoing transformation. It’s also important to keep in mind that the automotive industry has a long history of resilience and innovation. Companies that have successfully navigated these challenges have emerged stronger and more competitive in the long run.

While it’s natural to worry about the future, there are steps that employees can take to prepare for the possibility of layoffs. First, it’s important to keep up with industry news and understand the reasons behind Ford’s decision. This can help employees make informed decisions about their own career and financial planning. We also have a Layoff Rejuvenation Workshop to help employees going through similar changes coming in March 2023.

Second, employees should take advantage of any resources that the company offers to help them transition to a new job, such as resume writing workshops, interview skills training, and job placement services. If Ford or other companies conducting layoffs do not have those services available, then the Layoff Rejuvenation Workshop covers all those transitional assistance and more! They should also consider reaching out to professional organizations, such as their union, for additional support.

Third, employees should start considering alternative career options and building their professional network. This could involve exploring other industries or considering a change in career direction. It’s also a good idea to reach out to friends, family, and former coworkers to see if they know of any job openings. This networking with people you already becomes a vital part of what we assist with in the Layoff Rejuvenation Workshop as well.

In conclusion, while the news of possible layoffs at Ford is unsettling, it’s important to remember that the automotive industry is undergoing significant change and that companies like Ford are taking necessary steps to remain competitive. By staying informed, taking advantage of resources, and proactively planning for the future, employees can increase their chances of successfully navigating this challenging time.

Looking for other services such as interview coaching, LinkedIn profile optimization and career strategy consultations? Go here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have a job interview coming up but need additional help to be successful with it? Check out the Interview Audio Program here that can help you navigate your next job interview with EASE.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join my Facebook group |

Our Reaction to Dr. Phil Show’s Position on Quiet Quitting

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

There’s been a lot of talk about quiet quitting and employers reaction and misunderstanding of the term has been nothing short of a complete disaster.

We are reacting to the clips from “The Dr. Phil Show” talking about both positions on quiet quitting from CEOs, employment attorneys and representatives from the anti-work movement.

Joining in our discussion is our resident credit repair expert in our very own Credit Solutionist!

 

Subscribe to Credit Solutionist Youtube Channel: | Website | Email

Videos being watched: Video 1 & Video 2.

Looking for other services such as interview coaching, LinkedIn profile optimization and career strategy consultations? Go here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have a job interview coming up but need additional help to be successful with it? Check out the Interview Audio Program here that can help you navigate your next job interview with EASE.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join my Facebook group | TikTok

When Treating Employees Bad…Goes Left

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Story on Reddit

Questions
1. Was the employer or the employee in the wrong?
2. What can we learn from this story?
3. My HR perspective on this entire situation and how this could have been avoided.
4. My perspective as a Career Coach how you need to deal with an employer like this.

Looking for resume services, interview coaching and career strategy consultations? Go here.

If you are looking for help in the overall job market, interview tips and more, purchase my new book here.

Have an interview coming up and need a little help? Check out my resource here.

Connect with me here
Follow me here: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Join the Facebook Group |