Category: career marketing

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 The idea of sitting down to write and mail a physical letter can seem time-consuming and outdated.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

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Why is Personal Branding Necessary in Your Career?

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

The job market is more competitive than ever before. As a result, job seekers must be strategic when it comes to getting noticed by potential employers. One of the best ways to do this is by building a strong personal brand. Your personal brand is how you present yourself to the world, and if done well, it can help you stand out from the crowd and achieve greater success in your career.

There are several reasons why building your personal brand in the job market is vital to your success. First, it allows you to differentiate yourself from others who may have similar qualifications and experience. In a crowded job market, this can be the difference between getting an interview and being overlooked.

Additionally, having a strong personal brand can help build your credibility and reputation in your field. It shows that you have a clear understanding of your strengths and what you have to offer, which can be a valuable asset to potential employers.

Creating a strong personal brand also allows you to communicate your unique value proposition effectively. By clearly articulating your strengths and experiences, you can create a consistent and compelling message that resonates with potential employers.

Some key questions to ask yourself when building your own personal brand:

1. What is personal branding from an employee perspective?
2. What are your strengths and weaknesses, professionally?
3. What type of employers do you want attract on your social media profiles for current and future opportunities?
4. What is your unique brand statement?
5. How does your personal brand statement represent you?

Moreover, your personal brand can also increase your visibility and allow you to develop a network of professional contacts. By creating a strong online presence, you have the opportunity to connect with others in your industry, get noticed by recruiters, and even attract new clients or customers if you’re an entrepreneur.

Now, you might be thinking that building a personal brand is only necessary if you’re looking for a new job or trying to start your own business. But the truth is, your personal brand is something that you should always be mindful of, regardless of your career path. Even if you’re not actively looking for work, having a strong personal brand can help you gain recognition and build credibility within your current role, which can lead to new opportunities for career advancement.

In short, building your personal brand is a vital step in achieving success in the job market. By differentiating yourself from others, establishing your credibility, communicating your value proposition, and increasing your visibility, you can position yourself for career success and achieve your professional goals. If you need additional assistance in developing your own personal brand, go here, so we can work together to establish your power personal brand.

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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.

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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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4 Reason Business Owners Need HR Consultants

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

 

Business owners often wear many hats and must handle a variety of responsibilities. While this can be rewarding, it can also be overwhelming at times. This is where HR consultants can help. By providing expert advice and support, HR consultants can make the process of running a business easier for business owners. Here are just a few of the ways that HR consultants can help your business succeed.

1. They can help you find the right employees
As any business owner knows, hiring the right employees is essential to the success of your company. However, it can be a challenge to find candidates who are both qualified and a good fit for your business. This is where HR consultants can be a valuable resource. HR consultants can help you identify the specific skills and traits that you are looking for in an employee. They can also assist with the recruitment process, using their expertise to attract top candidates. In addition, HR consultants can provide guidance on salary and benefits packages, helping you to attract and retain the best employees. Ultimately, HR consultants can play a key role in ensuring that your company has the staff it needs to succeed.

2. They can help you with employee relations
HR consultants can help you with employee relations in a number of ways. They can provide training on how to effectively communicate with employees, how to handle difficult conversations, and how to resolve conflict. They can also help you develop policies and procedures that will foster a positive work environment and promote a healthy workplace culture. In addition, HR consultants can help you investigate and resolve complaints of harassment or discrimination. By partnering with an HR consultant, you can ensure that your employee relations are positive and productive.

3. They can help you with payroll and benefits
Payroll and benefits are essential components of any business, but they can also be complex and time-consuming. From calculating taxes to managing employee health insurance, there are a lot of moving parts to keep track of. This is where HR consultants can be a valuable resource. A good HR consultant will have a deep understanding of payroll and benefits laws and regulations. They can help you develop processes and systems that are efficient and compliant with all the relevant rules. In addition, a consultant can provide expert guidance on how to manage your payroll and benefits in the most cost-effective way. As your business grows, your HR needs will become more complex. Having a consultant on hand to offer advice and support can help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your operation running smoothly.

4. They can help you with compliance issues
As a business owner, you are responsible for ensuring that your company complies with all applicable employment laws. However, keeping up with the ever-changing landscape of employment law can be a full-time job in itself. Fortunately, there is help available in the form of HR consultants. By working with a consultant, you can ensure that your company is always up-to-date on the latest changes to the law. In addition, consultants can provide valuable guidance on how to handle specific compliance issues that may arise. As a result, working with an HR consultant is an effective way to reduce your risk of noncompliance with employment law.

As a business owner, it is important to have an HR consultant on your side. These professionals can help you navigate through the difficult waters of employment law and employee relations. By having an HR consultant in your corner, you will be able to avoid costly mistakes that could end up costing you time and money. If you are in need of an HR consultant now, GO HERE to schedule your call. If you just have a question regarding your business needs, click on the voicemail tab on this page or go to my contact page here.

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Canopy’s CEO is Grossly Misrepresenting Overemployment

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

In a recent memo to employees, Canopy’s CEO falsely claimed that the company does not have an overemployment problem. This is a gross misrepresentation of the facts and an insult to the intelligence of Canopy’s employees.

Canopy’s CEO is grossly misrepresenting the company’s overemployment problem. In a recent memo to employees, the CEO claimed that the company does have an overemployment problem and call it a new form of stealing. This is simply not true.

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4 Reasons Not to Lie on Your Resume…Period!

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

We’ve all been tempted to stretch the truth on our resumes at one point or another. Maybe you exaggerate your responsibilities a bit, or fudge the dates of your last few positions. After all, everyone does it, right? Wrong. Lying on your resume is a huge no-no, and can come back to bite you in more ways than one. Here are four reasons why you should always tell the truth – unless, of course, you’re really good at lying.

1. You Could Get Caught
In today’s digital world, it’s easier than ever for employers to verify the information on your resume. A simple Google search can turn up old news articles, LinkedIn profiles, and social media posts that conflict with the information you’ve provided. And if your lies are uncovered, it will reflect poorly on both you and your ability to perform the duties of the position you’re applying for.

2. It Creates an Inaccurate Picture of Your Skills and Experience
Let’s say you land an interview based on a lie you told on your resume – congrats! Now comes the hard part: actually having to do the job. If you don’t have the skills or experience necessary to perform well in the role, chances are you won’t be employed for long. Inaccurately representing yourself on your resume ultimately creates a false sense of expectations – not just for you, but for your employer as well.

3. It ruins your chance for a positive reference later down the line
Asking your previous employers to act as references is common practice during many job searches. But what happens when they tell potential future employers that you lied on your resume? Not only will this damage your reputation, but it will also make it harder to get hired in the future. Once a lie is out there, it can be difficult – if not impossible – to take back.

4. It says a lot about your character
Lying is considered a major character flaw by many hiring managers – and rightfully so. If you can’t be trusted to tell the truth on your resume, what else are you capable of lying about? Your integrity is one of the most important qualities an employer looks for in candidates, so it’s important to protect it at all cost. After all, once it’s gone, it may be gone for good.

So there you have it – four compelling reasons not to lie on your resume (unless you’re really good at it). The next time you’re tempted to fudge the facts a bit, remember that honesty really is the best policy… even if it doesn’t always get you the results you want in the short-term..”

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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.

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Transform Your Career for Time Freedom – 3 Business Systems to Get Your Time Back

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

 

Do you hate your job? Are you stuck in a rat race, day after day, with no end in sight? If so, it’s time to transform your career into a business. With time freedom, you can take back control of your life and finally achieve the work-life balance you’ve always wanted. Here are three (3) business system to create your time freedom.

1) Start by identifying what makes you unique. What skills or talents do you have that nobody else does? Once you know what sets you apart, you can start to think about how to monetize those skills.
2) Figure out what people are willing to pay for. Just because you’re great at something doesn’t mean that there’s a market for it. Do some research and find out if there is a need for your services and whether people are willing to pay for them.
3) Set some boundaries and create a schedule that works for you. One of the best things about owning your own business is being able to set your own hours. Make sure you take advantage of this and create a schedule that gives you the flexibility YOU need.
4) Take action! It can be tough getting started, but the key is just to do it! The more work you put in now, the easier it will be down the road.
5) Get support from others who have gone through (or are currently going through) the same thing! There’s nothing like having a tribe of people who understand exactly what you’re going through and can offer helpful advice along the way.

Become a Virtual Assistant with Your Current Career
You’re probably reading this because you’re considering becoming a virtual assistant. But what exactly is a virtual assistant, and what do they do? To put it simply, a virtual assistant is someone who provides administrative support to clients remotely. This can include anything from managing calendars and scheduling appointments to handling customer inquiries or even social media management. As a virtual assistant, you have the potential to transform your career into your own business with time freedom. What’s not to love about being your own boss and setting your own hours? If you’re organized, detail-oriented, and good at multitasking, becoming a virtual assistant may be the perfect career move for you. So what are you waiting for? Start your journey to become a virtual assistant today!

Create a Curriculum to Sell Online
Transform your career into a business by creating a curriculum to sell online. What could be more gratifying than being your own boss, making your own schedule, and having the freedom to work from anywhere in the world? The barriers to entry are low and the potential for earnings is high. All you need is a laptop, an internet connection, and a willingness to put in the work. What are you waiting for? Start building your curriculum today!

Become a Consultant in Your Chosen Field
Being a consultant is one of the best ways to achieve time freedom in your career. As a consultant, you can be your own boss and work from anywhere in the world. Plus, you can set your own hours and rates. But becoming a successful consultant requires more than just having expertise in your field. To be successful, you need to be able to market yourself effectively and build a client base. You also need to be able to manage your time and keep up with your workload. But if you’re willing to put in the hard work, becoming a consultant can be a great way to transform your career into a business. So if you’re looking for more freedom in your career, consider becoming a consultant. It could be the best decision you ever make.

If you want to make the jump from working for someone else to becoming your own boss, it’s not as hard as you might think. You can start by turning your career into a business with time freedom. This doesn’t mean quitting your job and starting something completely new; it means making small changes that will help you work smarter, not harder. I hope these tips have given you some ideas on how to get started. Need additional help, connect with me here. I would love to hear about your journey in creating a successful online business.

Start Looking for Another Job If….

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

If these situations start happening at your job…then it’s time to look for another career opportunity

Situations like…
1. Teaching other people (new or old) in your department your primary and secondary duties of the job

2. Your workload has decreased significantly

3. The timeline for established assignments has decreased

4. Request for documented daily activities in 15/30/60 minute increments to be sent to your manager over a specified period of time.

Is your resume(s) and cover letters ready to work for you? Does they need to be updated, reviewed or completely redone? If you just need to be reviewed to work for you in today’s job market, check out my resource here.

Do you need your resume completely redone? Go here to get started.

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

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