Category: career change

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 The idea of sitting down to write and mail a physical letter can seem time-consuming and outdated.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.

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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.

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He was Google’s AI Pioneer…So Why Did He Just Quit?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Video Referenced

In the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence, a seismic event has rocked the tech community. The Godfather of AI, a brilliant mind behind groundbreaking advancements in the field, has unexpectedly left Google, leaving the industry buzzing with speculation. Join us in this intriguing conversation as we delve into the possible reasons behind this astonishing departure.

As one of the most influential figures in AI, the Godfather played a pivotal role in shaping Google’s AI research and development efforts. His departure has ignited a whirlwind of theories and conjectures. Was it a clash of visions, creative differences, or the pursuit of new horizons that prompted his sudden exit? We analyze each possibility to gain a deeper understanding of this extraordinary turn of events.

Another plausible explanation lies in the realm of personal development. As the Godfather’s reputation grew, so did his desire for fresh challenges and opportunities. Did he receive an offer he simply couldn’t refuse, where his expertise and vision would be given an even greater platform? We delve into the realm of enticing offers and the allure of new frontiers that may have beckoned him away from Google.

Of course, we must also consider the possibility of conflicts within Google’s AI ecosystem. With multiple high-profile personalities working on cutting-edge projects, clashes are inevitable. Could the Godfather’s exit be a result of irreconcilable differences or disputes over the future direction of AI? We explore this intriguing aspect of internal dynamics and how it might have influenced his decision.

We delve into the realms of personal growth, entrepreneurial aspirations, and professional disagreements, piecing together the puzzle of this monumental event. Get ready to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Godfather’s exit and discover what lies ahead for this luminary in the world of AI.

At any rate, people can decide to leave a position, industry or company that no longer suits their personal economy, principles or overall professional posture or branding. Like Geoffrey Hinton, you can decide that the position, company or industry no longer suits your needs and make an exit. Before you do it, always and I mean always have a plan. If you need help formulating your next career move, click here and let work together to formulate your exit strategy!

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It the Audacity with Leadership for Me???

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Article Discussed

1. Why would this employer think or even attempt to reach out and ask this employee they just terminated to cover their shifts for them?
This situation shows there’s clearly a lack of leadership and some level of stupidity running rampant in this situation. The leader who reached out to the terminated employee was clearly in a serious bind with holiday schedule and thought requesting a favor from the recently terminated employee would help their situation. WRONG!!!!!

2. What type of circus does this organization have representing them as leadership?
The leadership at this company is not properly trained nor are they making good decisions if they are getting terminated employees involved in their shift shortage. There are several ways those issues could have been resolved without reaching out to an employee they just involuntarily terminated.

3. Do you think this leader needs leadership training or their head examined?
An equal combination of both is needed for this specific leader when he thought it was an excellent idea to reach out to a terminated employee to cover holiday shifts they did not adequately plan to cover. This situation boils down to poor leadership and poor decisions that yielded these type of results.

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Is Blac Chyna’s Transformation Real? How Will it Change her Career & Personal Brand?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

In this article and video we discussed at length the background history, choices and ultimately the transformation from “Blac Chyna” aka Angela Renee White. We examine the authenticity of her spiritual transformation and what it means for her personal and career direction. Some of the questions we explored in this live video were: –

1. How was she may/may not have been socialized from a young age to commoditize her body?
2. Did her socialization really changed based on what we see her portraying right now?
3. Is this move truly genuine or is it possible business move, or perhaps a combination of both?
4. Do you still think she is commoditizing her body for profit but in a different way?
5. What can we learn from this in our own lives, businesses, etc?
6. How we can use her transformation to evaluate, change or implement our own personal development?

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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.

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Discover the Benefits of Quiet Hiring and Unveil the Secrets of the Job Market!

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Have you heard of quiet hiring? If not, you’re not alone. Although this practice has been gaining traction in the last couple of years, many people still don’t know what it is or how it works. In this blog post, we’ll break down what quiet hiring is and how it can help employee take advantage of lucrative opportunities and employers find unique talent.

What Is Quiet Hiring?
Quiet hiring is a recruiting strategy in which employers actively search for talent without advertising the job publicly. Instead of posting the position to job boards or sharing it on social media, employers use networks and referrals to find qualified candidates. It’s also known as passive recruiting because employers aren’t actively advertising the role; rather, they are seeking out potential candidates instead.

Why Use Quiet Hiring?
There are several benefits to using quiet hiring over more traditional methods of recruitment. The first is that it saves time and money. By using existing networks and referrals instead of relying on job boards and other public postings, employers can quickly identify high-quality candidates without spending a lot of money on marketing or advertising costs. Additionally, since these networks usually consist of professionals who are already well-known in their field, employers can be sure that they’re getting top-tier talent with minimal effort.

The second benefit to quiet hiring is that it helps employers avoid bias when selecting candidates. Since there is no public advertisement for the position, potential candidates aren’t able to tailor their applications based on what they think will make them stand out from other applicants; instead, they must rely solely on their qualifications and experience when applying for the job. This makes quiet hiring an ideal recruitment strategy for companies looking to hire diverse teams or those who prioritize merit over all else when selecting new employees.

How can quiet hiring help employees as well you might ask?
Quiet hiring is an incredibly beneficial process for potential employees. It focuses on a person’s career experience and potential, their true ability to do a job rather than any biases or discrimination. This can help job-seekers feel confident in their career choices, knowing that they are making progress based on the benefits they provide rather than any outward appearance.

Quiet hiring can also help employees gain career benefits such as recognition and career advancement. Without the pressure of external networks and traditional career pathways, talented workers can more easily find jobs that best fit their skillset and gain career advantages as well. Quiet hiring gives everyone access to opportunities regardless of background or current status, ensuring that every individual is judged by their abilities and talents alone.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career and be quietly hired? Let the experienced career coach help prepare you to make a smooth transition. Our consultations offer individualized advice tailored to your industry and profession, providing actionable steps to secure a successful launch into the job market.

We offer one-on-one counsel and assessments to equip you with the tools necessary for success. By leveraging our expertise, you’ll gain access to resources that can give you an edge over the competition. We provide insight into current trends and best practices for interviewing, resumes, and professional networking. Our customized approach ensures that each of our clients is well-positioned for their job search, allowing them to confidently enter the market knowing they are as prepared as possible. Trust us as your go-to source for career coaching consultation so you can find quiet success in a competitive marketplace!

Quiet hiring is a great way for companies to save time and money while finding top-tier talent quickly and efficiently. It also helps eliminate bias during the selection process by allowing companies to focus solely on qualifications rather than broader criteria like race or gender identity when assessing applicants. Quiet hiring benefits both employees and employers find talent and opportunities solely based on merit and qualifications.

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.

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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.

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How to Turn Lemons into Lemonade: What Layoffs Can Teach You About Your Career

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Being laid off is never an easy experience. It can be difficult to stay positive, especially when you’re struggling to find a new job or facing unexpected financial hardship. But don’t forget that there is a way to turn these lemons into lemonade; layoffs can give you valuable insights into your career and help you make better decisions moving forward.

Take Stock of Your Strengths and Weaknesses
When a layoff happens, it’s natural for us to ask ourselves why it happened. This self-reflection can be uncomfortable, but it’s also necessary for personal growth. Try thinking about what strengths you brought to the table (e.g., hard work ethic, creative problem-solving skills) and what weaknesses you may have had (e.g., the inability to work in teams, too much perfectionism). This will give you a better understanding of where your strengths and weaknesses lie so that you can start building on them going forward. We also have a FREE Resource, our DREAM Career Tool to help you document your professional strengths. Go Here to grab it.

Think Creatively About Future Opportunities
It can be tempting to think that the only job opportunities available are those that are directly related to our current career path—but this isn’t always true! Layoffs offer a chance for us to step outside of our comfort zones and think more creatively about potential future roles. For example, if your background is in marketing, maybe now is the time to look into jobs in sales or customer service instead? Or if your background is in finance, could there be opportunities out there for you in project management? Keeping an open mind about the types of roles that could potentially suit your skill set will help broaden your horizons—and ultimately increase your chances of finding a good job fit! Understand you have skills that are transferable to other career paths, don’t rule anything out.

Learn How To Network Effectively
Networking is essential for career success—and layoffs provide an opportunity for us learn how to do it effectively! The key here is not just connecting with people who are already in positions of power—it’s also about connecting with those who have similar interests or who work in the same field as you do. Take advantage of social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook groups; attend industry events; reach out to former colleagues; and take every chance you get to make meaningful connections with people who share similar interests or experiences as yours. Growing your network will allow new doors of opportunity open up over time! Do you have the necessary tools to network? Do you have your business or introductory cards to hand out to people when you meet them? It’s always best to be ready, so you won’t have to get ready.
In many ways, layoffs can be seen as an opportunity rather than something negative.

By taking stock of our strengths and weaknesses, thinking creatively about future opportunities, and learning how to network effectively we can use layoffs as a stepping stone towards greater success both professionally and personally! So remember: when life gives you lemons – make lemonade! To take your lemons and make lemonade, action is required. We want to have what you need and the direction necessary to cultivate your own career success after the negative effects of this layoff. If you are ready to take the necessary steps, let us work with you directly by you clicking here, so we can this layoff be the best thing that happen to your career. You can connect with you by leaving a voicemail for me by clicking the gray tab on this page.

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What does it mean to “Quiet Quit” your job?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

In a nutshell, “quiet quitting” is about rejecting the notion that work has to take over one’s life and that employees should go above and beyond what their job descriptions entail. According to Metro, this can take many forms – including turning down projects based on interest, refusing to answer work messages outside of working hours or simply feeling less invested in the role. (Article from By Yessi Bello Perez, Editor at LinkedIn News which you can find here)

Quiet Quitting at work can mean different things to different people. For some, it might mean putting in the bare minimum effort to get by. For others, it might mean taking a more relaxed approach and not working themselves into the ground. Whatever your definition, there are a few things you should keep in mind if you’re thinking of coasting at work. First, be aware of the risks. If you’re not putting in your full effort, you may find yourself falling behind or making mistakes. Second, be honest with yourself. Quiet quitting may seem like an easy way to get by, but it’s not always sustainable in the long run. Finally, be mindful of your team. If you’re not pulling your weight, it can have a negative impact on morale and productivity. So what does it really mean to quiet quit at work? It means treading carefully and being aware of the potential risks and rewards.

Quiet Quitting at work is a real thing, and it’s something you should avoid if you want to be successful. It’s tempting to take things easy when you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, but that’s exactly when you need to ramp up your productivity. If you need help getting started, connect with me here and I can give you some tips on how to get back on track.

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

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