Category: job losses

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 The idea of sitting down to write and mail a physical letter can seem time-consuming and outdated.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

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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.

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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.

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 |