Spot Phony Employment Ads Like a Pro

As a former classified sales representative it is too easy for me to distinguish a legitimate employment ad from a phony one. It’s like trying to give me a Chucky Cheese game token and telling me it’s a dollar coin. However, I have found that for many others these differences that I see plainly might not be so obvious. There are many innocent, desperate, or otherwise unsuspecting job seekers who fall victim to scams.  The search for a job in today’s market can be intense, especially with 11.5 million people out of work, 37% of which who have been out of work for more than 27 weeks. Many times these phony ads are used to source your information to sell to companies, or worse, used for scams resulting in identity theft, bank fraud, or an all-around bad deal. Here are some ways to instantly spot these employment ads, and to recognize them for what they are: counterfeits of the real thing.

Simple job description. It’s so easy a cave man can do it. If the job description is too simple or too vague delete and skip to the next. “All you need is a computer, type 10 words per minute; no GED required.” Think about it; a scam artist is not going to take the time to put an elaborate description together and prefers a catch-all ad to grab the attention of just about anyone.

Over-the-top great pay. Following the super easy job description is a great salary for doing little work. You need to stop looking for a cushy job anyway. Great pay typically comes with great responsibility and the description should reflect that.

Hard-to-ignore typos. After years of working in print media I have seen many “legit” typographical errors make it through the presses. But there is something to be said about obvious spelling or grammatical errors that hurt my eyes like the sun’s glare. If you have to ask yourself if the writer is “smarter than a 5th grader” it might be a scam artist.

Check the source. Even emails coming from seemingly legitimate sources, such as Career Builder, can be phony. Check the domain name of the email you've received. An email ending with @yahoo.com or @gmail.com is an immediate red flag. It does not cost much for a company to create a domain name, so freebie email addresses are a no-go. If you see a unique domain name that appears to be a company name Google it! What you find will give you the answer you need on whether or not you need to inquire further. Please note that sometimes there is not any company information available on a job posting if the company wants to keep the posting confidential. In addition, they may choose to go through an agency and that’s the information you will see.

Something about money. If you’re forced to pay for something in order to apply, or if the job requires you deposit checks from a foreign country, it’s a scam. If they ask your bank information for “direct deposit” before you even interview, it’s a scam.

At the end of the day follow your intuition and use your common sense. The same way you don’t have to put a game token into a vending machine to find out it has no value you don’t have to fall for the “okie doke” employment ad either.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois, MBA
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

This article was originally posted on onlinecareertips.com.

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What Career Coaches Can’t Do for You

I love what I do and believe it's my personal calling to help others move forward in their careers. Whether I’m working with a student or doing private consulting I assist people of all walks of life with career planning, updating resumes, job search techniques and even motivation. However, with all the benefits of having a coach guide you through the sometimes complex job search process there are some things career coaches cannot do for you.

Coaches call the play; you drive the ball.

Can’t Drive You (figuratively or literally). Career coaches can give someone the tools and motivation to jump start their career, but it’s up to the individual to get behind the wheel and put the plan into action. We can make very strong suggestions, but in end you are responsible for the decision to follow through (or not) with any advice you are given. When you leave the office or hang up the phone with your coach you have to find what drives you personally in life. Is it your family, lifestyle, or financial gain? Ask yourself what motivates you and how can you tie that into your job search or career?

Make Something Exist that Isn’t There. The same way a beautician can’t make you look like Beyoncé, I can’t make you look like a stellar candidate if you’re not the right fit. I am not a magician or a genie that’s going to fly you on the red carpet to your dream job. By no means am I a dream crusher, however like a basketball coach is aware of the strength and weakness of her players, I am not going to encourage someone to seek a position that I believe doesn’t play to the person’s strengths. We want to see you win!

Shoulder Your Burdens. There are things that happen in life (some within or not in our control) that impacts our ability to achieve career success. I get it and I empathize with you, but I won’t sympathize with you. As a career coach I do need to know your challenges to partner with you, but leave your excuses behind as it will serve as a road block towards a solution. We want to see you move forward!

Employ You. We are not hiring managers. Career coaches may find you leads, introduce you to a connection, but you have to be prepared and do the work to seal the deal. Today’s job market is quite competitive to say the least and coaches give you the tools to help you rise above the pack; use them to your advantage. We want to help you get hired!

We can help you create a strategic career playbook, but remember you are the star that’s going to run the play because all great players have a coach.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois, MBA
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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Summer Business Casual Casualties: Dress Code Drama

Summer time brings out bikini tops and flip-flops. We dress a little lighter to escape the heat of the sun. Even companies with stringent dress codes, may relax their rules during warmer months. However, some may become too lax about their professional appearance, turning summer into a human resources nightmare filled with dress code drama. While I know it’s hot this summer, here’s what’s not. 

Mountain High, Valley Low, Don’t let your Cleavage Show (from the front or the back). Victoria your secret is out. Yes, I saw the tattoo on the small of your back you tried to hide from your mom.  Wardrobe that is low cut or low-rise may equal job cut or no raise.

Press to Impress. Don’t be that Sloppy Joe or Dingy Jane walking into the office like your clothes got chewed by a goat (as my Caribbean mom would say). The “shabby chic” peasant style is not in. I know the economy is tough and a dry cleaning bill may seem like a luxury, but starch spray and an iron goes a long way. If you’re wrinkled like the dollar bill you forgot in your pocket, it may reflect poorly on you.

No Funky Feet. If you want to get your foot in the door don't let your feet get in the way.  Don't kick yourself with your kicks (sneakers) or flop your style with flip-flops. I understand you may commute via public transportation and don’t want to scuff your good shoes. Just switch them out when you get to the workplace. It shows that you care about and value your professional image; an asset worth noting.

Bring Spaghetti for Lunch, but Leave the Straps Behind.  To keep your skin in the game, cover it up ladies. I know tanks are a summer staple, so try layering with a light cardigan or blouse.

It is hot out there this summer, but remember to keep your business casual style cool and professional while you escape the heat. Have a safe and fun summer!

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois, MBA
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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Life After Graduation: Paving the Way to a New Career

A friend of mine, who I admire, wrote this profound statement on her social media status, “Don't let one goal end without setting another in motion.” I immediately thought that it was timely advice for many soon-to-be college graduates. Have you thought about your career after graduation? What do you want to get out of your degree? Here are some tips on career planning ahead.

It’s Your Career: Own IT! News Flash: Having a degree in _____(you fill in the blank) is not your instant meal ticket to success. When you hear someone say, “This degree has done nothing for me,” it’s probably a result of poor career planning. Remember in life you’re guaranteed nothing, so be intentional about your next move. Very few people get handed opportunities so create a path to collide with them.

Apply Patience. Your first job after graduation may not be exactly what you always dreamed of, but proper planning will help ensure that it’s at the very least a building block. Most recent graduates obviously lack experience so seek opportunities to gain experience prior to the completion of your program if possible through internships, volunteering, or participating in student professional organizations.

Ready or Not Search Early. Keep a pulse on industry trends and what the market demands so you can prepare and align yourself accordingly. Starting your job search before you’re ready will do just that. It will be easier for you to discover where to look, who to connect with and uncover resources along the way without the pressure of finding something immediately.

Write It Down. Whether you create a formal plan, flow chart, journal, or simply list your goals, writing them down will increase your chances of following through. When choosing your career goal don’t write something down because it sounds good. Ensure that it’s connected with your desire and passion.  Do not let your present circumstances detour you from dreaming big.

If you’re thinking, “I wish I would have gotten this advice earlier,” it’s not too late to implement these tips. Transitioning into a new career? This is for you too. Remember what lies ahead in your career depends on the plan you laid before. Ready or not…set….GO PLAN!

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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4 Signs You are not Likeable at Work

Being likeable or agreeable is a key component to your success in the workplace. And it all starts with your attitude, controlled by no other than YOU. If you’re a Debbie downer or negative ninja that clears the room like a stink bomb, this one is for you. If two or more of these signs apply to you, it’s time for self-reflection and self-correction by applying these solutions.

1. No one greets you when you come in. You walk into the building and barely make eye contact with anyone or people quickly look away. They are holding their breath and waiting for you to pass by because your negative energy stinks. Next time, greet someone with a smile and say hello. If the response is awkward, it’s okay. Give people a chance to adjust to the new you and try again tomorrow.

2. You don't have a lunch buddy. Lunch time is a great occasion to build relationships with your co-workers. If you’re in isolation during lunch, it’s time for a change. Politely ask to join a group that’s already at a table and have some small talk. Ask your co-workers what they are having for lunch; this may lead to an invitation. Or send out an email to your team letting them know where you’re going for lunch and offer to pick up orders.  

3. You've been fired or in fear of being fired more than a few times in your career. Do you think you would be the first person on the chopping block or cringe when it’s time for your evaluation? Do you come in with an attitude right at 9 AM wishing it was 5 PM? More than likely, it shows and reflection on you is not pretty. It’s time to reflect. You can change your job or you can change your attitude towards your job.

4. You find it difficult to come up with job references. Some people like being the big bad wolf, but I’m sure they feel sheepish when they are filling out their job application and struggle to find a person to say something nice about them. All that huffing and puffing blew everybody away. Foster positive relationships before you need them. 

If you think being likeable is about being a pushover or brown noser, then you got it twisted my friend. It’s about making a choice about your attitude daily, despite your environment and demonstrating your level of emotional intelligence in the workplace and beyond. Your attitude greatly impacts your quality of life, so choose wisely. 

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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Tips for Today’s Unemployed: Avoid becoming like flat soda and stale potato chips

Today the typical unemployed worker has been jobless for 38 weeks versus 17 weeks before the recession. There’s a lot that needs to be done to bridge the gap and get America back to work. However, if you've found yourself in the unemployment line do not delay in getting it together because the risk of you becoming long-term unemployed (if you're not already) is greater than ever. Whether you've been unemployed for a short while or in the midst of long term unemployment these tips may help you get closer to reentering the workforce.

Target Your Search & Save Your Time. Don't waste time applying for jobs you don't want or qualify for. It’s an employer’s market and many have more resumes than they can handle; it’s not the time to press your luck. If you looked at the job description and know you would hate to do what’s required, then give somebody else an opportunity to be miserable. Your lack of interest will show and back to the unemployment line you will go. I know it’s easier said than done with the stresses that come with being unemployed. However, finding a job takes time and energy; conserve it for opportunities worth your while. Remember quality versus quantity. 

Get Organized. Keep track of all the jobs you apply for. You're probably required to do so if you're collecting unemployment anyway. While I was unemployed I created a spreadsheet that contained company names, position titles, login information with hyperlinks which made it much easier for me to follow up. Keep track of contact names and any communication received or sent. Tracking your progress will help keep you motivated.

Get Resume & Cover Letter Professionally Written. If you’re not getting positive results at the very least get a second opinion* on your resume. Ensure that you are representing yourself well. A bad resume or ineffective one is like bad PR and marketing. I know money may be tight, but this is one of those bare necessities if you think about how much money you could be making per day or per week if you had a job. Invest in yourself.

Hone Your Craft. Remember a job isn't the only way to build your resume. Stay up on the latest information in your industry. Consider joining or becoming active in a professional organization. Perhaps you can earn a certification to increase your marketability in the meantime. Whatever you decide to do, keep yourself fresh with knowledge and avoid becoming like stale potato chips.

Create Opportunities. This is the time to put all your creative juices to play. Remember you can be your own boss too. And if you've started your own venture add that to your resume! It amazes me how many people leave out their self-employment experience. Show off your skills and knowledge!

Work and Manage Connections. It’s easy to feel alienated from the workforce. Maximize your job search by staying connected with your network and getting to know people. Social media is a great tool to help you bridge the gap.

Remain Positive! You will find the previous point difficult to accomplish without this. The law of attraction is real and people tend to stay clear of those who carry negative energy. They are not interested in your sob story so stop seeking pity. Instead celebrate small successes along the way. Your Facebook status shouldn't read, “Still haven’t gotten any call backs :(.” Instead, post something like, “I just found a great opportunity. So excited! :) ” A positive attitude is a winning attitude and with that you are more likely to find others to cheer you on and connect you to opportunities along the way.

Remember you're in control of your attitude, not your circumstances. Stay fresh and crisp; no one likes flat soda and stale potato chips.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

*P.S. If you're experiencing long-term unemployment (27 weeks or more) I'll give you a detailed resume review for free ($24.99 value). Simply upload your resume on our website and enter code WORK13. Only a limited quantity will be accepted so act fast! Offer expires 3/31/13 or until we get our maximum quantity. 

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Soul Search before You Job Search

My previous blog post was on creating a job search plan to get the job you want. But why go through the trouble of creating a road map when you haven’t decided on a final destination. It’s a plan that will work for most people just as long as you know what want. However, if you’re not sure which steps to take next, whether you’re early in your career or a transitioning professional,  the following tips may be able to help you find your way.

Think Outside Titles. Do remember as a kid people would ask you, “What do you wanna be when you grow up?” There are thousands of job titles out there and by the time they grow up some of them will be obsolete and new ones will develop. When asked that question as a kid, not once I said career coach, account executive or academic advisor. Instead we should ask, “What do I like to do? What am I good at? Think about what you’re recognized for among your circle of friends. Are you the Martha Stewart or computer whiz among your peers? Has anybody said, “I could see you doing….”? Take the time to assess your skills, interest and most importantly your values.

Explore. As a professional in higher education it amazes me how many people decide to enter a career without any real research.  Watching an episode of C.S.I. or Grey’s Anatomy does not qualify as research either.  Consider taking assessments such as those found on CareerPath.com by CareerBuilder to get an insight on what career paths may fit your skill set, personality and values. Research ideal careers even if you’re not sure what you’re looking for because when you seek you shall find your “aha” moment.

Don’t Settle. If you want something just to pay the bills, that is what you’ll get. Stop and listen to your inner voice. Sometimes we do know what we want, but simply don’t pursue it because we think it’s out of our reach. Or is it that we need to reach out to take the next step. What you want to do doesn't have to be popular or easily understood by others. Just know that if it’s your passion and calling, then success is almost inevitable. 

Remember nothing last forever.  Although important, this is not the be-all and end-all decision it seems. Knowing that each job is temporary really helps relieve the stress of making a decision. Besides, you can decide to explore other options and transition to other careers later. In the end do your due diligence; search within and research before embarking on your next job search quest. 

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

P.S. The job search process can be complicated. Thankfully, you do not have to create a plan alone. Let’s team up to create a personalized plan to help you achieve career success today. Email me at cfrancois@rezumeforward.com

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Creating a Strategic Job Search: Rise to the top like C.R.E.A.M.

Are you ready to start job seeking? Before you start aimlessly applying for jobs, understand that in today’s competitive market developing a strategy for your job search is essential. Here’s a road map on how to create a strategy to get the job you want and becoming like the C.R.E.A.M. (Career Ready Exceptional Applicants of the Millennium) who rise to the top.

Know What You Have to Offer. In order to successfully sell a product, it’s important to know the features and benefits as it relates to the buyer. As a candidate for a position, begin with an entrepreneurial mindset. View yourself from the eyes of an employer and think about the skills, knowledge and experience that you possess that employers would find valuable. Develop an elevator pitch; that’s who you are and what you do in 3 sentences or less.

Optimize Your Resume and Social Media Presence. Your resume is like an ad for your services. Will it immediately attract the attention of a potential employer? Does is clearly state your qualifications, how you will meet employers’ needs and free from errors? It’s important to have a focused resume, otherwise employers will not be able to figure out how you may be a benefit to their company and pass. Make it easy for them.

And let’s not forget your social resume. LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook are tools that companies use to market their presence online to help potential customers find them. You need to do the same to help employers find you. Don’t be incognito about it either (i.e. setting your profile to private or not including a legitimate professional profile picture); these are your media outlets. Sounds overwhelming? There are tools such as CareerCloud to help you manage it all. Be seen, be heard, and be discoverable!

Target Companies. Now that you know your product and created some great “ads” it’s time to search for your target market. Search for companies that are seeking your services and create a plan to connect with them directly (direct marketing). This may include searching through your connections on social media (prospecting) to find out who knows someone in your companies of interest (Jackalope Jobs makes that easy). Ask for an introduction or attend an event where employees of those companies will be present (this is when you use that elevator pitch). Follow your companies of interest on all their social media platforms. This may give you insight into their corporate culture or first dibs on an employment opportunity.

Be Interview Ready. After you've gotten the attention of potential employers be ready to close the sale. There’s nothing like getting a product that doesn't deliver on its promises.  It’s important to research the company in preparing for the interview, but if you have been connecting and following them on social media most of this work has been done. This will make it easier for you to readily match what you have to offer with their needs and share ideas on solutions you can provide.

Not having a proper plan and strategy in place is where many fail in the job search process. It’s like throwing darts without a target and hoping something will stick. Applying a strategy will take you from being a career ready applicant to a Career Ready Exceptional ACHIEVER of the Millennium. Know your value, know what you want and be intentional in getting it.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

P.S. The job search process can be complicated. Thankfully, you do not have to create a plan alone. Let’s team up to create a personalized plan to help you achieve career success today. Email me at cfrancois@rezumeforward.com

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Résumé Bloopers: Blunders to Avoid

In this digital age it easier to access information about job opportunities. However, easier access comes with fierce competition and employers inundated with more résumés than they have time to possibly read. This makes having a résumé free from “résumé red flags” imperative to job search success. Below are some common résumé blunders to avoid. 

“Funky” Email Address. If you have an email address like sugardaddyforyou@domain.com you’re asking to be judged unfairly without mercy. This may work well on your dating profile but you want to be taken seriously. Even an arbitrary set of numbers or letters don’t work well (it looks “spamish”), because you want recruiters to quickly identify your email address with your name. I recommend creating an email address that’s a variation of your name such as jane.doe@domain.com. If you have a common name it’s harder to create one if different variations have been taken.  I've found that sometimes people tack on their birth year to their email name. I recommend refraining from dating yourself by giving early clues to your age.

Repeating the same set of words. “Attention to Detail, Superb Writing Skills, Excellent Communication Skills, Attention to Detail” Really now? At least that’s what an employer may say and straight to the shredder the résumé goes.

Fluff with no Buff.  This is the equivalent of giving a meat eater a cucumber sandwich. They’ll scream, “Where is the meat!” Instead of simply stating you’re a “hard worker" let your accomplishments speak to that. Provide an example that exemplifies that you are just that. If you state “Exceeded goals by 125%” recruiters may say to themselves, “Now that’s a winner.”

Irrelevant Personal Interests. Employers know you have a life outside of work, but do they really want to know you "play part-time in a garage band" as a candidate for an accountant position. Please don’t do this.

Right Spelling, Wrong Word. “Objective:  Seeking a party-time position related to my bachelorette degree.” This is like an unedited video filled with bloopers and a prime example of how simply using spell check is not proofreading your résumé. Have another pair of eyes review your résumé before uploading to any job site or submitting to an employer.

I hope I've humored you, but the job search process is no joke, so avoid becoming the brunt of one. 

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

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Workplace Romance: Business with Pleasure

In the spirit of the Valentine’s season, it’s fitting to bring up the topic of workplace romance. Given the amount of hours we spend with coworkers on a weekly basis, forming relationships that extend beyond the workplace is sometimes inevitable. Early in my career I've sworn that I would never date anyone in the workplace. But an interesting coincidence put me in a dilemma.

Some years ago I met a gentleman that I oddly had a lot in common with. We even had the same major in college and our initial conversation seemed like the makings of a great dating relationship. But apparently we were little too much alike, because I also found out that he would be starting a new job that very next day. And out of all places, it was the company that I was currently working for in the same department. So do I bring everything to a halt or proceed with caution? How is workplace romance viewed in today’s workforce anyway?

According to a WorkplaceOptions survey, how it may be viewed depends on your age. 84 percent of Millennial workers (ages 20-31) say they would have a romantic relationship with a co-worker, compared to just 36 percent of Generation X workers (ages 32-48) and 29 percent of Baby Boomers (age 49-68). Management columnist and author of In Office Hours, Lucy Kellaway says, “It’s one of the worst decisions you can possibly make. Office romances are… complicated and unprofessional.” Whether your point of view is new school or old school here are some things to consider:

What is your company policy? Some companies have rigid policies against workplace fraternization either with those you work with internally or externally. It’s important to know what those are ahead of time.

What is the corporate culture? Look around-- your workplace may not be the best place to hook up. Are there couples married as a result of meeting in the workplace or is there an unspoken rule that makes it taboo?

What are the long term affects? In the beginning the thought may seem rosy. But could a relationship bring on real or perceived favoritism which could create scorned co-workers or worst yet a lawsuit?

The dynamics of a romantic relationship in the workplace can prove to be complex and there are definitely many more questions to consider. Just remember in the workplace with the matters of the heart, be smart.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois

Career Coach

Founder of Rezume Forward

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Getting Your Connections Up: Networking Simplified

The New York Times recently published an article¹ on how larger companies are increasingly using their own employees to find new hires through referrals. This trend makes good business sense as it saves time and money. And it left me to think that the life of a hermit crab is going to get really tough in today’s job market. According to the Department of Labor, the average unemployed worker today is jobless for 38 weeks. Besides being a call to get your emergency savings up, this is a call to get your connections up; meaningful ones.

However, the thought of building connections through “networking” may make some people cringe. Some people may view this as hobnobbing, schmoozing, or down and dirty brown-nosing. This is deeper than the superficial “friends” you have through social media. However, I’m not discrediting social media, just stating it is merely a link to a possible meaningful connection.  Here are some tips on building your connections up.

Start in your natural environment. Do your neighbors know who are and what you do? Have you taken time to get to know coworkers outside your department? Do you know other parents at your child’s school? If you answered no to all 3 questions you have some work to do. Start with a smile, a wave hello, say good morning, and take little opportunities to strike up a conversation without expecting anything in return. Connections are much easier to build when you’re not looking to receive, so build them before you need them.

Warm your cold connections. The next time someone accepts or sends you a connection request on social media send them a thank you message. Send birthday and congratulatory messages whenever possible. This gives an opportunity for people to remember who you are. You can also add an open-ended question to encourage a two-way conversation, such as “How do you like your new job?” These simple gestures take a little time, but may lead to a rewarding meaningful connection.

Be Likable. (Not a people pleaser or pushover) Making connections is pointless if you turn around and burn them. That’s called building walls. There must be a good reason why Dale Carnegie’s book “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is still a popular book since published in 1936. This is long before Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. It’s about getting back to the basics and applying it in the new millennium.

Give. What do you have to offer? At career fairs people are always drawn to the booth that’s giving away the cool knick-knacks.  Give to open yourself to the opportunities to receive.

In this fast paced world, it may be challenging to find time to build relationships. For some it comes natural and it shows by their success and for others not so much. Thankfully this is a skill you can learn. Research and finds ways to build relationships and make connections in a way that comes natural to you. Remember, in today’s job market, keeping your connections up means keeping your money up.

Moving you Forward,

Cathy Francois

Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

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¹http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/28/business/employers-increasingly-rely-on-internal-referrals-in-hiring.html?hp&_r=0

Are you LinkedIn yet? What you’ve been missing

If you’re like me, you’re never the first to jump on social media sites because you don’t want to be part of a fad and have another long lost profile. A year ago, I finally created my LinkedIn profile because I was relocating and looking for new opportunities.  And my only regret is that I did not create one sooner. So if you are thinking, “I’m not getting on the social media bandwagon” or “I’m not looking for a job, why do I need a profile?” I suggest you reconsider quickly. With over 200 million users strong LinkedIn is more like a freight train than a bandwagon and you better get on board. Whether you’re new or fell off the wagon now is a better time than any with LinkedIn’s new profile design.

One-Click Endorsements. You can now endorse people in your network and others can do the same for you in just one click. This can be done by adding your skill sets to your profile such as project management, sales, customer service and more.  The easiest way to get an endorsement is by endorsing others in your network, which in turn they will receive a notification of your endorsement and LinkedIn will suggest that they endorse you.

Establish and Maintain Your Professional Identity. Does your network really know what you do? Do you have valuable information to share? Have you recently completed any special projects or certifications? Keep your profile fresh by updating information as they occur, which will make updating your resume a breeze when the time comes. However, be careful not to overdo it or turn off your activity broadcast through your privacy settings if necessary. That way if you need to do an overhaul on updates, people don’t get a notification for every change you make to your profile.

Follow Global Luminaries. Now you can do more than follow industry information, groups and companies. In addition, you can gain professional wisdom by following any one of 150 influential global leaders, such as Tony Robbins, Richard Branson and a bunch of other people you may have never heard of, but may want to know based on your interests.

The new and improved LinkedIn profile is streamlined, visually appealing, and helps you connect or reconnect with others better than ever. But don’t take my word for it. Find out for yourself and discover opportunities that may await you this year.

Cathy Francois

Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

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The Art of Interviewing

Are you nervous about your upcoming interview? Do you hear your heart beating like a stampede of elephants in the distance. Wondering if you will miss or score? You can rewrite your resume, and proofread your cover letter many times over, but in the world of interviewing, most people get one shot to make the right impression.

So how does one prepare for the unknown? Is there a science or art behind a good interview? Yes, and more important than the interview itself is the preparation for the interview. Below are 5 tips to help you succeed in the interview process.

1.   Get your mind right. Your psyche can either bring negative or positive energy, which may be recognized by the interviewer. Avoid stress and anxiety when possible.

2.   Research the company and read in between the lines. Out of 2000 bosses surveyed 47% stated the most common mistakes job seekers make during interviews is having little or no knowledge of the company.  Along with factual information, get a feel for the corporate culture, the interview process and how their values and mission fit your personal ones. This will also help you formulate smart questions discussed later. LinkedIn, Glassdoor & Twitter are great sources to help you gain insight.

3.   From head to toe, appearance matters. This is more than just about the clothes you wear. This is the time to sweat the small stuff.  70% of Employers claim that they don’t want applicants to be fashionable or trendy (unless it’s part of the company culture). Be neat and yet simple. Avoid any potential distractions (i.e. covering tattoos and skipping the cologne) because before you have a chance to say a word, your appearance (or odor, whether nice or not) will certainly be observed.

4.   Practice your responses, but do not sound rehearsed. Avoid clichés at all cost. You want to not only sound original, but genuine in your responses as well. Even if you have prepared a good answer to a tough common interview question, pause before responding as if giving thought to your response.

5.   Ask smart questions. Many of us may prepare for questions that may be asked of us, but fail to think about what questions that you may ask. Smart questions demonstrate your interest and knowledge. For example you may ask, “I understand that the company has a mission to decrease its carbon footprint, what role does this position play in that initiative.” Normally you are given the opportunity to ask questions towards the end of an interview so this may be your moment to make a lasting final impression.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

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How to Apply for an Internal Position without Burning Bridges

You’re at the office browsing through your company’s intranet site and found that the job of your dreams is available. “Eureka” you say to yourself as you hear the soft sound of the heavens opening up, because the stars are finally aligned and your moment has arrived. Pause; you just realized that may involve telling your manager.  Although you may like your current position, you know in your heart that you’ll have greater satisfaction moving on and you don’t want any hard feelings. So how do proceed with applying for an internal position without burning bridges? 

Here are points to consider before applying for an internal position.

Know your company policy. Have you met the tenure requirements? Do you need approval from your manager?

Inform your Boss. If you have a less than hostile relationship with your direct supervisor, I encourage having a conversation about how you would like to career path with the company prior to pursuing internal positions. This also puts them in a better position to put in a good word for you.

Reach out to your connections. This could be your direct co-workers who may have insight or those already involved in your department of interest. And if you don’t have any current connections you don’t have to wait until there’s an open position to form them. Be proactive; introduce yourself perhaps in the break room or at a company affair.

Act like an external candidate. Do not assume because you’re an internal candidate that you’re a shoe in for the position. Prepare like you would for an outside position. Leverage the advantage you have as an internal candidate by freshening up on the necessary knowledge and prepare your best presentation ever. 

Do your best work. While you currently may not be in your position of interest be mindful that your reputation precedes you. Don’t make it hard for your current coworkers (or supervisor for that matter) to say something positive about you.

Making a move forward in your career doesn't always have to involve burning bridges instead see it as an opportunity to create new ones.

Moving You Forward,


Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

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Go From Fired to Hired: Reflect, Learn, Take Action

So let’s get straight to point, no chaser; you’re on the rocks and you feel the burn; you got fired. I’m not referring to those who got laid off due to company restructuring or someone who blatantly assisted with his own dismissal, although you can stay tuned if this applies to you. I’m specifically referring to those who got the proverbial pink slip, the ax, the boot; simply because you were not a good fit for the position you were hired for. Perhaps you meant well, but just weren't cutting it. Getting fired may have left you feeling defeated, embarrassed, sadden or downright mad. Allow yourself a brief moment to grieve, then pick up the pieces, reflect, learn and take action.

Reflect. Guess what, it happened to me some moons ago, so you’re not alone. I was working in a sales position for a major multimedia company and was approached by a much smaller company looking to expand their magazine franchise in the United States. I was impressed. I wasn't even looking for a position at the time and they wanted me to work for them. But hindsight tells me that they interested in my connections and I was reeled in with an offer for higher pay. The informal interview went well and I even made a sale on my first day. Unfortunately, that was my first and only sale and 2 months later I was on the job market.

Learn. Failure teaches us a hard lesson, so take heed unless you want to do a retake. I learned that I really didn't understand what I was getting myself into. Being young, naïve, and overly optimistic I didn't realize how much tougher sales can be when working with a new brand versus an established brand. And essentially, I was hired to do hardcore grassroots direct marketing; not what I anticipated. Remember an interview goes two ways, so while you prepare for potential questions, be sure to prepare questions to ask. Do your due diligence and research as much as you can about the company and the position.

Take Action. Begin making preparations for your next step. Be prepared to answer the question on why you separated with the company. Be honest without giving too many details. Explain that the position or the company was not a good fit, perhaps what you've learned and transition to what you want and how it aligns with the company’s needs. It could sound something like, “I quickly found out that phone sales wasn't a good fit for me and that I enjoy face-to-face sales, which is what attracted me to this retail sales position.” Notice by the end of the statement you just refocused the conversation and plugged in why you’re a good fit. (I’m not a bad salesperson after all…wink.)

And you’re not so bad yourself. Good people get fired all the time, so don’t let the experience kill your confidence. Take the lesson for what is and move forward by taking action and go from fired to hired!

Moving You Forward,


Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward

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