Category: self-improvement

Mastering Salary Negotiation Series Part 1 – Building Your Powerful Value Proposition

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Welcome to the Mastering Salary Negotiation Series, where we equip you with the essential skills and strategies to succeed in your salary negotiations. In Part 1, we focus on one of the most crucial aspects of any negotiation – crafting a powerful value proposition. A well-structured value proposition not only demonstrates your worth to potential employers but also sets the stage for a successful negotiation that aligns with your career goals. We’ll explore three ways to build an impactful value proposition and empower you to take charge of your salary negotiations.

1. Identifying Your Unique Strengths
First off, it’s crucial to clearly identify and understand what unique strengths you bring to the table. These could be your exceptional skills, experiences, achievements, or qualifications. Make a list of them, highlight them, engrave them in your mind, because these elements will form the bedrock of your value proposition.” If you’re not sure, use the accomplishments you have achieved in previous positions, whether voluntary or paid positions. “Keep in mind that the strengths you identify should be those that are highly relevant and beneficial to your employer or prospective employer you are negotiating with. They need to see the value you’re adding to the team and possibly their overall bottom line.”

Action Steps:
-List down your top skills and achievements that set you apart from others in your field.
-Research salary data for your role and location using reliable sources, such as salary surveys and industry reports.

2. Communicate Your Value Clearly
Once you’ve identified your unique value, it’s essential to communicate it clearly and convincingly to potential employers. During salary negotiations, articulate your value proposition using quantifiable achievements and specific examples. Highlight how your skills and expertise have positively impacted past projects or companies. Emphasize the benefits you bring to the table and how you can contribute to the prospective employer’s success.

Action Steps:
-Create a concise and compelling elevator pitch that showcases your value proposition effectively.
-Practice delivering your pitch with confidence and enthusiasm.
-Use example like this: If you’re applying for a retail sales position and you discussed with the interviewer that your 5-8 years of retail sales experience yielded an increase in sales of 25% over 2-3 quarters for the year you worked at a specific company. You can use this achievement to sell your retail sales experience to bring the similar results to this employer.

3. Quantify Your Value
Numbers speak volumes in negotiations. Did you help increase sales by 20%? Did you reduce operational costs by 30%? These specific figures help make your value tangible and harder to dispute.” Just like the last example, when you communicate your value, include quantifiable numbers, percentages, and other quantifiable data to create the clear picture for the employer. Keep in mind, negotiating your salary is about recognizing your worth and effectively communicating it to your employer. It’s not about being combative; it’s about ensuring a fair exchange of value.

Action Steps:
-Use numerical values, percentages and ranges to demonstrate how valuable your experience, skills and expertise would translate to the employer’s bottom line.
-Be ready to adapt your value proposition based on the specific needs of each employer you engage with.

Are you ready to elevate your salary negotiation game and secure the compensation you deserve? Take the next step by booking a personalized salary negotiation consultation with MentorShelly, our seasoned negotiation expert and career mentor.

During your consultation, MentorShelly will work closely with you to:

-Review and refine your value proposition to make it more impactful.
-Provide tailored strategies for effective negotiation based on your unique circumstances.
-Help you build confidence and assertiveness for the negotiation process.
-Don’t miss this opportunity to take your career to new heights and achieve the salary you’ve been dreaming of.
Click here to schedule your consultation now!

Building a powerful value proposition is the cornerstone of successful salary negotiations. Knowing your unique value, articulating it clearly, and addressing employer needs are essential elements in crafting a persuasive case for higher compensation. As you embark on this journey of mastering salary negotiation, remember that being well-prepared and confident will significantly impact your negotiation outcomes. Take the first step today and book your salary negotiation consultation with MentorShelly. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Mastering Salary Negotiation Series, where we’ll delve into advanced negotiation techniques. Happy negotiating!

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

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3 Ways to Explain Employment Gaps in a Job Interview

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Be Honest and Transparent:

It is always best to be truthful and upfront about any gaps in your employment history. Explain the reason for the gap, such as a layoff or downsizing, and emphasize the steps you took to stay active and productive during that time. For example, you could mention that you used the opportunity to update your skills through online courses, attend networking events, or volunteer in a related field to gain new experience. This shows the interviewer that you are proactive and took the time to improve yourself, even during a difficult situation.

Highlight Relevant Skills and Accomplishments:

Make sure to emphasize any relevant skills or accomplishments you gained or developed during your time out of work. This could include certifications, self-study, or volunteer work. Be specific about what you learned and how it will benefit you in the new position. This will show the interviewer that you were not just sitting idle during the gap in employment, but were actively working on improving yourself.

Focus on Your Goals and Aspirations:

Focus the conversation on your future goals and aspirations, and how the current position fits into your overall career plan. Explain why you are passionate about this field and the specific role you are applying for. This helps to shift the focus away from the gap in your unemployment and towards your positive qualities as a candidate. It also shows the interviewer that you have a clear vision for your future and are committed to finding a role that aligns with your long-term career goals.

Sometimes employment gaps can make the positive difference in an interview if you know how to spin it and capitalize on it. If you need additional help with helping you navigate job interview, check out my resource here. It will help you not only navigate employment gaps, this resource will help you prepare for the next job interview like a boss! Grab that resource today.

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2023 Job Market Trends to Watch – Technological Automations

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

 

There are several job market trends that will change the scope of work as we know it. Some of them will eradicate jobs, others will create new opportunities. Only you can determine where you will land with this job market trends.

In this video, we will discuss the 1st of 3 job trends, Technological Automations.
Check out the reference article below for more insight.

Go here.

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It’s Time to Leave that Job…Now!!

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed out in your job, it might be time to resign. It’s not worth sacrificing your mental health for a paycheck – you can find something else that will make you happier. Plus, giving yourself some time away from work can make you even more appealing to future employers. So if the job is stressing you out, don’t be afraid to walk away. You’ll be glad you did.

If your job is giving you ulcers, it might be time to hand in your two weeks notice. Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. Your boss is breathing down your neck, deadlines are looming and you’re pretty sure you’re going to get fired if things don’t shape up soon. But before you start packing up your desk, there are a few things you should consider. First, is this job really worth the stress? If it’s not, then it’s probably time to move on. Second, have you tried talking to your boss about the situation? It’s possible that they’re unaware of how stressed out you are. If you’ve tried everything and you’re still not happy, then quitting might be the best option. But whatever you do, don’t make a rash decision – think carefully about what’s best for you before you hand in your notice.

Working in a toxic work environment can be soul-sucking and energy-draining. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s time to resign, unless of course you enjoy being constantly stressed and on the verge of a breakdown. A toxic work environment can take a toll on your mental and physical health, so it’s important to get out as soon as possible. Here are some signs that it’s time to resign:

– You dread going to work every day
– You’re constantly stressed out
– You’re not getting any joy or satisfaction from your job
– Your health is suffering as a result of the stress

If you can relate to any of these points, then it’s time to start looking for a new job. A toxic work environment is not worth sacrificing your wellbeing for. Leave!

If you find yourself constantly second-guessing your decisions, questioning your worth, and generally feeling like you’re never quite good enough, it might be time to consider finding a new job – or at the very least, a new boss. Because chances are, you’re working for a narcissistic boss.

Narcissistic bosses are characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for constant admiration, and a complete lack of empathy. They’re also incredibly difficult to work for. So if you’re stuck working for someone who ticks all of those boxes, it’s time to start looking for a way out.

That doesn’t mean quitting without notice – although in some cases, that might be the best option. But however you do it, getting away from a narcissistic boss is one of the best things you can do for your career – and your mental health.

If you’re working for a company that’s up to no good, it might be time to hand in your notice. After all, life is too short to spend your days working for a criminal enterprise. Of course, it can be tough to know if your employer is breaking the law. Here are a few things to look out for:

– Are you being asked to do things that make you feel uncomfortable?
– Do you have a sneaking suspicion that something isn’t quite right?
– Are you worried that you could get into trouble if the authorities found out what was going on?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it’s probably time to start looking for a new job. After all, it’s not worth risking your freedom for a company that doesn’t have your best interests at heart. So, if you think your employer is up to no good, don’t wait around – leave ASAP!

Whether you’re getting stressed out at the thought of going to work, feeling like your work environment is toxic or dealing with illegal activities or dealing with a narcissistic boss…none of those things are worth giving up your sanity. It might be time to resign if the job is stressing you out, dealing with a narcissistic boss or the company conducting illegal activities. If that’s the case, then don’t hesitate to reach out for additional help. I’m here to support you through your career transition and beyond. To get your resume reviewed, revised or redone to get that new job, click here to start the process.

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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Never Had a Job? Here’s How to Get One

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

So, you’re one of those people who never had a job before. You’ve been in school, been a homemaker or doing volunteer work your entire life and now you’re out in the real world, ready to start working. Congratulations! But where do you start? It can be tough to know what the best way to find a job is when you’ve never done it before. Fear not – we’re here to help. Watch the video for my four tips on how to find a job even if you’ve never had one before.

So, you’ve never had a job before? No problem. We discussed the four things you can do to get started in your job search/career. First, make a list of the skills, knowledge and abilities (KSAs) you currently possess. Second, network with people you know personally who may be able to help you find a job. Third, look online for jobs that fit your skillset and interests. Finally, don’t give up if the first few jobs you apply for don’t work out – keep trying until you find the perfect position for you. And if all of this seems daunting, don’t worry – I’m here to help! Contact me directly for assistance creating or updating your resume so that you can start applying for jobs today.

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Best Career Change Action Steps #4

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Are you considering a career change? Making a big life change can be scary, but it’s also an exciting adventure. If you’re feeling ready for a new challenge, here are some action steps to help make the transition go smoothly.
First, check out Steps 1 – 3 to get the beginning steps.

Step #1 | Step #2 | Step #3 | Step #4 | Step #5

That’s all for now. But don’t worry, I have one more action step for you to check out. Just click on the link Step #5 above or here. You can also find more information about making a successful career change by downloading our free guide here. We hope these tips help get you one step closer to your dream job!

Check out the rest of the Career Change Action Steps Series to learn more about making a career change. And don’t forget, if you’re looking for some extra help along the way, reach out to us here and we’ll be happy to chat with you about your options.

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Best Career Change Action Step #1

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

Making a career change can be a daunting task. There are so many things to consider, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, we’ll share some action steps that will make the transition smoother and help you create a successful new career. So let’s get started! For step 1, check out the video below.

So, if you’re feeling the itch to make a change, congratulations! You are in excellent company. But before you start packing your bags for that exciting new job or city, there are a few things you need to do first. Check out the other action steps in the Career Change Action Steps Series for more information on how to make your career change as smooth and stress-free as possible. And remember, always consult with a trusted friend or advisor when making such an important decision. We wish you all the best on your journey to finding (or creating) your dream job!

Want to go straight to Step #2…Go here. | Step #3 | Step #4 | Step 5

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The Love-Hate Relationship with Job Interviews

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

We’ve all had that nervous feeling right before your next job interview. It’s nerve racking to say the least. If you’re new to the job search and career space, I completely understand your anxiety around interviews. Half the battle is the level of preparation that takes place before the interview takes place. The other half is keeping your “nerves” under control while you worry about how you will be perceived by the interviewer. In any case, you will still need to be mentally and physically be prepared. Each type of interview requires diverse preparation, which I talk about in this video. If you are looking for interview coaching before your next job interview, go here.

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StoryTime Career Series – Episode 2: Toxic Work Environment

Posted on by MentorShelly, the DREAM Career Coach

This is second of the StoryTime Series on my podcast and YouTube channel sharing stories of all of our experiences in the world of careers, jobs, contract work, independent consulting and business interactions. In the second episode, I share one of my experiences while working in a toxic environment. The names, dates and other information were kept confidential to protect the innocent or guilty party.

The objective is the learn and grow from our professional and personal experiences to become a better version of ourselves, professionally. This particular story hits home and taught me so much about myself and the level of restraint I earned during that time. If it wasn’t for a great friend talking me off the proverbial ledge on a weekly basis, I probably would have been arrested for physical assaults and verbal altercations. The tension was thick and my stress level went through the roof! I am grateful to have survived it without loosing my composure.

What did I learn from this experience?

I learned that people and their preconceived notions are so strong, it allowed them to spread malicious lies about other people’s character. Keep in mind, they never took the time to get to know the individual but somehow felt entitled to assume things about people. Needless to say, the very sword those people intended to injury others, they ended up falling the same swords.

I learned corporations set up “certain people” for failure. For example, training some employees on the 25% – 30% of their duties while training other employees on 90% of their duties. They followed up by measuring each employee’s job performance without the same level of detailed training. So the employee with 30% of the training will never perform at the level of the employee that received 90% of the training. When questioned about why the training levels are different when the expectation of performance is the same, you receive responses like “training is a privilege“.

I learned that we all have a choice with the work environment we choose to spend our time. In my case, this employer terminated me for job performance, when I received less than 50% of the necessary training to be successful. It was the second termination from a job that I felt relief! The relief of not ever setting foot in that toxic environment.

If you find yourself having to self-talk your way into the doors of your job every morning…just so you don’t want the entire place to explode while you’re on a lunch break…It’s time to get a concrete career plan specifically tailored to you leaving that toxic environment for GOOD! Start by grabbing my eBook, “From Clueless Teenager to Consummate Professional”, 7 Steps to Cultivating the Career and Economic Life You Want here. It will help you cultivate your exit plan and career strategy. While you’re at it, grab my FREE DREAM Career Guide specifically formulated to help you document your Career Strategy step by step.

Looking for direct individual Career Coaching? Schedule your Career Strategy, Interview Coaching and Resume Consultations.

Want to share your crazy, quirky job story? Go here and leave your information via email or voicemail.

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