Job Search

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The Power Of Genuine Connection: Why AI Won’t Secure Your Dream Job

We are living through the next significant era. The AI Revolution, aka the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is upon us. It is very tempting to believe that AI, like ChatGPT, holds the key to landing your dream job. With promises of crafting impeccable resumes, cover letters, and acing interviews, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that a well-programmed algorithm can do it all. However, the truth remains unaltered: the power of human connection and authentic conversations truly shape your career trajectory.

Unlocking Career Success: The Role Of AI And Authenticity

Artificial intelligence (AI) in the job search

âPicture this: You've meticulously fed an AI with all your achievements, skills, and aspirations, and it spits out the most polished resume you've ever seen. This automated process might get your foot in the door, but what happens when you walk through that door? The interview room isn't where AI shines, and here's why.

Beyond Algorithms: The Human Touch In Navigating Interviews

Man shakes hands with the hiring manager before a job interview

Firstly, conversations and highlighting what makes you uniquely you is where true compatibility and synergy can be explored on the employer/employee fit. A resume might outline your accomplishments but YOU must convey your personality, values, and passion for the role.

These intangible qualities are the very things that build connections and make employers remember you. When you rely solely on AI-generated materials, you're missing a chance to showcase your uniqueness, which sets you apart from other candidates.

Crafting Uniqueness: Standing Out Beyond AI-Generated Resumes

Hiring manager reads the job applicant's resume during an interview

There is a reason a âlove letterâ to a potential employer has a significant effect on your eligibility for employment. That message, email, or video message can SHOW the recruiter how you align with the company's mission, vision, and values. Not just that but the hiring manager needs to be sure you will be a fit within the team.

Donât believe me? Ask any of the thousands of Work It DAILY members who have utilized the disruptive cover letter and their success in getting an interview or accelerating their interview process.

Embracing Authenticity: Where AI Falls Short In The Job Hunt

Furthermore, utilizing AI to "game the system" by embellishing your resume can have dire consequences comparable to outright lying about your credentials.

In the information age, it's becoming increasingly easier for employers to fact-check and verify the authenticity of claims. Imagine the embarrassment of being caught off-guard during an interview when questioned about a skill you don't possess. Your credibility takes a hit and, suddenly, your AI-generated masterpiece crumbles under scrutiny. Hiring managers may sound a bit like Ariana Grande by saying âThank U, Nextâ if you canât back up what you have presented in your materials.

Employers are skilled at spotting discrepancies between AI-polished presentations and in-person interactions. Authenticity matters, and when it's absent, the disconnect is palpable.

Networking: The Unparalleled Strategy For Job Search Triumph

Young professionals at a networking event

So, what's the secret ingredient to triumph in your job search? It's the age-old power of genuine connection and networking. While AI can certainly streamline processes, human factors solidify relationships. Whether attending (even virtually!) industry events, participating in seminars, or even engaging on professional social media platforms, these interactions offer an opportunity to showcase your skills, passions, and character in a way that AI simply cannot replicate.

Success stories of professionals and executives repeatedly highlight the significance of networking. Meeting someone face-to-face, discussing shared interests, and forging a memorable conversation can open doors that no AI-generated cover letter can. It's about making a lasting impression, demonstrating your expertise through interactive discussions, and leaving behind a memory employers will recall when hiring decisions.

In conclusion, while AI has its place in optimizing certain aspects of the job search process, it is not a magic bullet that guarantees success. Rather than relying solely on automated tools to craft a perfect presentation, job seekers should recognize the immense value of authentic connection. Your skills, passion, and personality shine brightest in conversations that leave a lasting impact.

So, the next time you're tempted to let an AI take the reins of your job search, remember that genuine connections are your most potent weapon. Invest time in networking, engage in meaningful conversations, and let your authenticity drive your career journey.

Looking for your career network? Check out the 7-day free Work It DAILY community trial and stay for connections, events, courses, and more.

P.S. Donât forget to say hi in my DMs when you join and reference this article!

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The Power Of Genuine Connection: Why AI …

Introverts often feel especially challenged by job interviews. They're meeting new people out of their element and, given the level of importance attached to an interview, it may ramp up nervousness and keep them from performing their best.

If you're an introvert who wants to perform your best during an upcoming interview, or just an extrovert looking for some additional interview help, apply these 13 interview tips!

Before The Interview

Man using tips for introverts while waiting for his job interview

1. Practice.

2. Practice.

3. Pract... Well, you get the idea.

Over-preparing will give you a sense of mastery that can calm your nerves and improve your self-confidence and performance. Know the company, job, your resume, and your career goals inside and out. Write out the questions and answers you want to practice and edit them with a critical eye to get started. Then, practice with someone else playing the employer (mock interview), even if it is only on the phone. You may need to do this more than once.

Before the interview, do a dress rehearsal in your interview attire and in person, if possible. If you can afford it, engage a professionalâit is well worth the investment. If not, practice with someone whose opinion you trust.

4. Prepare notes that you can refer to during an interview.

Usually, it is perfectly expected for you to have a few copies of your resume, and a pen and paper, perhaps in a portfolio or folder. Don't write in full sentences and keep your notes to the top page of your pad. Leave plenty of space to jot notes in a different color ink so that they are easy to pick out. You can write questions for the employer on the next page.

5. Wear comfortable, suitable clothes.

Think about the setting and your personal style and kick up your attire one more notch. We recommend dressing one level above the company's dress code. Make sure that your clothing fits you well and is comfortable to wear sitting, standing, and walking. It should also look good front and back. Ask someone else's opinion. You will already be nervous enoughâno need to add to it by allowing your mind to stray toward your outfit!

6. Visit the location early so you can visualize the setting.

This will also ensure that you know about any construction or other anomalies that may impact your arrival time and can react with a calm, cool demeanor. If it's a public location, a quick reconnaissance will provide additional information to increase your comfort level and limit any fears that can be fed by the unknown.

During The Interview

Job candidate uses tips for introverts during an interview

7. Breathe instead of saying um, uh, etc.

As an introvert, you may get especially nervous when you have to speak in a public or unique situationâsuch as an interview! Instead of filling the silence with random syllables, breathe in. Typically, we stammer when we are trying to find the right words and feel the pressure. Focus on breathing in once and then breathe out while you think. This is usually enough to buy you time to find your language.

8. Strike a pose.

As introverts (or even extroverts!) we sometimes worry that the interviewer will wonder if we have "spaced out" or "lost it" if it takes too long to speak. If you have a pose you normally strike when thinking (a hand on your chin?), do that. Or, you can rephrase the question while searching your mind for the perfect words. Sometimes, the introverts I work with feel comfortable saying something like, "That is a good question, I am processing that as we speak!" A combination can also be employed, of course.

9. Smile.

Reallyâremind yourself to smile! When I worked as a telemarketer, many years ago, I learned that people can hear you smile when you speak. It is true. Well, if people on the other end of a phone can react to a smile, doesn't it stand to reason that an in-person smile will make even more of a positive impression? Take the interview seriously, by all means, but show your humanity as well.

A recent introverted client became comfortable sharing the fact that he is an introvert during the interview. It works really well as a prelude to your answer to, "What is something you have to work on?" or "What is your greatest weakness?"

10. Keep your answers positive.

There is no need to provide anything but the best of your best during the interview. Unless asked specifically about a weakness or a project that has gone wrong, keep your mouth shut. Even then, always put a positive spin on things, and highlight what you've learned and how good you have become at planning and avoiding X, Y, and Z (use the "Experience + Learn = Grow" model for answering behavioral interview questions).

If you are introverted, you may be harder on yourself than anyone else. The last thing you want is to give your mind something to gnaw on while you try to be "in the moment" during an interview.

11. Ask questions.

In order to avoid an interview feeling like an inquisition, ask questions. Approach the interview as if it were a conversation: you listen, you respond, you interact, and the interviewer does the same. If you can nudge the interview in this direction, you will feel a lot more confident and comfortable than if the interviewer is asking all the questions!

12. Watch your body language.

Leaning forward shows that you are interested and alert. Crossing anything sends the message that you are closed off and negative. Leaning back in your chair may give the impression that you don't care or are arrogant. Be careful not to fidget, doodle, or make faces while the interviewer is speaking or you are thinking.

After The Interview

13. Prepare for next time.

When you are safely out of sight, but before you get home, write down some notes about anything you might want to include in a thank-you note, ask in a follow-up or next interview, or could improve on the next time you interview for a job or need to speak in a public or unusual situation!

Interviewing as an introvert doesn't have to be so hard. We hope you found these thirteen interview tips helpful, and now you have the confidence to ace your next job interview!

Good luck!

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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13 Interview Tips For Introverts

While the pressure of doing well in your job interview may be over, there's still work to be done. Following each job interview, always send a thank-you note. Not sending one can cost you. But at the same time, sending one that you don't put much thought into can backfire as well.

While the follow-up thank-you note is not the defining factor of whether you will get the job, if written effectively, it does help maintain your standing as an impressive candidate for the position.

There are plenty of tips on how to write a good follow-up thank-you note. Here, we'll focus on signs your thank-you note isn't ready to be sent to a potential employerâyet!

1. You Didn't Check The Small Details

Yes, they may be small details, but one little mistake is enough to hurt your chances of landing the job.

Check your thank-you note for any misspellings or grammatical errors, and make sure you address it to the correct person. The last thing you want to do is misspell someone's name. Like your resume, your thank-you note requires an extra pair of eyes for proofreading.

2. Your Note Feels Generic

Man on phone follows up with employers during his job search by sending a thank-you note

"Thank you for the meeting! It was a pleasure."

Of course it was! Just about every other person who's been interviewed will say the same.

Your thank-you note needs to help you differentiate yourself from all other job applicants. Reflect back on the job interview and highlight a particular point for your message where you can express genuine interest in working for the company and with those you met at the interview.

Avoiding coming off as generic in your thank-you note also means you're customizing your message for each individual you met with. Never send out the same note because it may be shared between the hiring manager, department head, and other individuals you shook hands with at the company.

3. You Didn't Keep It Succinct

Woman writes a follow-up thank-you note after a job interview

A follow-up thank-you note is not like writing to a pen pal. Keep the message professional and succinct. Highlight a specific point in the interview that can serve as your basis for communicating your interest.

The follow-up thank-you note should ultimately help you build a platform for continued communication with the employer throughout the entirety of the hiring process.

4. You Didn't Get Right To It

Job candidate writes a follow-up thank-you note after an interview

If an entire week has passed since the job interview and you're just getting to sending the follow-up thank-you note, you're telling the employer you don't care much for the job.

It's always advised to send the message as soon as possibleâwithin 24 hours of the interview. The sooner that follow-up thank-you note reaches their inbox, the more excited you'll seem about the job opportunity.

As you craft your follow-up thank-you note, be sure you're not making any of the mistakes above. Send a message that is unique and effective to help keep you in the running!

Need more help with your job search?

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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4 Signs Your Thank-You Note Will Hurt …

In this week's edition of the Work It DAILY Weekly Update, we discuss the importance of employers offering outplacement services and briefly touch on how recent events nationally impact the workplace.

The Importance Of Offering Outplacement Services

Laid-off employee on laptop uses outplacement services in their job search

Last week, the National Bureau of Economic Research officially declared that the U.S. economy was in a recession.

For the millions of people who have lost their jobs, this doesn't come as a surprise. Making matters worse is the fact that the newly unemployed are heading into this recession lacking the basic job search skills they need to navigate the competitive job search process that accompanies a recession.

In some ways, this would be an easy problem to address if more companies offered outplacement services to the employers they let go. Unfortunately, most don't!

Work It DAILY founder and CEO J.T. O'Donnell touched extensively on the issue recently via her LinkedIn newsletter and podcast JT Talks Jobs.

Most companies offer job coaching/outplacement to laid-off executives, but not the rest of the workforce, according to O'Donnell.

As part of tax code changes made in 2017, people are no longer allowed to write off job search and coaching as an expense on their taxes, which puts even more burden on those impacted by layoffs, while companies are able to write it off as a business expense.

O'Donnell suggests that those who have been laid off should go back to their former employer and ask for assistance with job coaching, while challenging managers or business leaders who have laid people off to go back to their executive teams and ask them to find it in their budget to pay for outplacement for their staff.

There's a misconception that outplacement is expensive and will break the bank for their companies. However, this is no longer the case! Services like the ones offered by Work It DAILY are both affordable and can be done virtually through a computer or phone application.

Companies need to be more open-minded about helping layoff victims secure outplacement/career coaching services. Not only is it the right thing to do in this recession, but it's good business!

For one, the sooner your former employees get jobs, the less you pay in insurance rates. But, most importantly, employees will remember how they were treated in their time of need. Those employees will take to sites like Glassdoor and Indeed to share their experiences, and bad experiences have a way of sticking with companies and hurting their employer brand.

No one knows how long this recession will be, or the ultimate damage from it, but anything a company can do to help laid-off employees will go a long way towards putting the company on the right side of history.

Good News Of The Week

Peloton recently donated $500,000 to the NAACP

Exercise and media company Peloton was one of the first companies to make a major statement about racism in the wake of George Floyd's death.

Peloton made the poignant statement via Twitter and the message included the announcement that they were making a $500,000 donation to the NAACP.

Peloton has been praised for the tone of the message and taking immediate action with their donation. They were also praised for the way they ended their message. "We have more work to do. Will you join us?" This serves as an acknowledgment that statements and donations won't solve the problem alone and a call to action for other businesses to step up and help in the process.

Resource Of The Week

Coworkers discuss diversity and the company's role in improving society during a work meeting

As stated above, many U.S. companies are trying to figure out ways to show support and join the fight against racism.

For some companies, it's putting out public statements against racism. Others are donating to African-American causes, and many more companies are holding discussions about how to meaningfully participate in making positive changes to both the workplace and society.

Out of all these steps, having ongoing discussions about race and diversity is the most important. It's important that discussions not only happen now in these times of unrest, but they continue. The only way to make positive change is to constantly keep these issues at the forefront.

What meaningful change looks like and the timetable for it will vary by company and that company's circumstances, but one thing is for certain moving forward: remaining silent isn't an option.

Businesses are an essential part of society, and all of society must participate in making a difference. The Harvard Business Review recently linked some helpful articles and books to help discussions about race and there are also many great organizations that empower African Americans that are worth learning more about.

Give yourself an even greater edge by becoming a Work It DAILY member today! Get access to one-on-one career coaching, resume and cover letter reviews, online tutorials, and unlimited networking opportunitiesâall at an affordable price.

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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Outplacement Is An Essential Service To Offer …

Every time you interview, your main purpose is to convince the employer to hire you. The job search is a sales process. The hiring manager (your future boss) is the "customer," and you are both the sales rep and the product. Why should they choose you over all the other "products" out there?

During the interview process, the hiring manager might ask you, "Why should we hire you?" Here are some tips for how you can effectively answer this tough interview question and stand out from other job candidates:

Focus On What You Can Do For The Employer

Job candidate explains why the employer should hire her in a job interview

This question is actually a fantastic opportunity for you to summarize why you'd be a great hire.

Always focus your answer on what benefits you bring, what problems you can solve, and what solutions you can provide. Never, ever say that they should hire you because you need the job or because you really want itâor anything remotely related to your reasons for wanting the job. This is your chance to connect the dots and help the employer see why you're the best person for the job.

Think about things you know the hiring manager (interviewer) is looking forâskill sets, background, character traits, personal qualities, education, experience, or anything else that will make you successful in this role. Relate your answer to these things.

Give An Example

Job candidate answers "Why should we hire you?" in a job interview

Explain how you meet the employer's needs and give an example to support your answer.

Your answer should be framed like this: "You should hire me because you've said you want someone with A, B, and C. I fit all of your requirements. I have A (say what that is), B (maybe give an example), and C (elaborate further)."

This will help you stand out from the other candidates and it gives the employer a reason to hire you.

Keep The Job Description (And Your Skills!) In Mind

Typically, this question will come toward the end of the interview, so you can refer to what you've already talked about, or mention something new that you know they'd be interested in. If it comes in the beginning, use the job description and your research to answer:

Will this job require long hours? Mention your work ethic.
Will this job need someone with great communication skills? Give an example of yours.
Will this job need someone who can learn on the fly? Tell them how you're going to get up to speed quickly and how you've learned and adapted before.
Does this job need someone with a particular background? Mention yours.
Do you have the skill set they want? Talk about your skill set and how you have been successful with it.

Give them examples of what you have achieved in the past. If you haven't done this job before, talk about similar things you've done or qualities you have that will make you successful in this new role.

It's never easy to answer "Why should we hire you?" in a job interview. However, if you do these three things, you'll be able to articulate your skills, experience, and qualifications with ease. And you'll impress the hiring manager in the process!

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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How To Answer “Why Should We Hire …

How To Stay Calm And Confident In A Job Interview

As a career coach for 20 years, I've worked with people who are so nervous to go into job interviews that they literally sweat through their clothes. Thankfully, there are a few things that significantly helped them stay calm and confident in job interviews so they could make a great first impression and land the job they want.

Here are three tips I have taught all my clients who are going into job interviews to utilize in order to feel calmer and show more confidence. I think at least one of these will help you...

3 Tips To Stay Calm & Confident In An Interview

@j.t.odonnell
3 Job Interview Tips To Make You Calmer & More Confident ððâ¥ï¸ For years I've been coaching people that get so nervous in job interviews that they sweat through their clothes. as a result I've built a lot of tools and tips to help them succeed in job interviews. these three tips have been the most successful for people who need to be more common focused. the benefit is when you do these things you'll also appear more confident. knowing how to reset yourself in a job interview is very important. you also need to know how to answer really difficult questions in a way that shows the person asking them that you are not afraid. I think you'll find these three tips super helpful and if you like what I suggest you may want to check out my new tiktok series on the 18 hardest behavioral questions and how to answer them correctly. I think it'll give you the confidence you need to truly succeed in your next job interview good luck and go get'em!
â¬ original sound - J.T. O'Donnell

1. Wear/bring something that will be a cue to relax.

The first tip that will help you stay calm and confident in job interviews is to go into the interview with something that, when you notice it, will be a cue for you to take a breath and relax and put a smile on your face. For example, if you wear jewelry, put the ring on a different finger or the watch/bracelet on the other wrist. If you usually carry a pen, bring a different color pen.

When you notice this one thing, don't over-smile, but take a breath and remind yourself that you're not there in an interrogation. You're there potentially meeting a new colleague. And when you look at it that way, that you're there to make a friend and get to know somebody, you will take that breath, you will smile, and you will relax. And the more you notice it, the more you'll connect with who you are in that moment so that you're giving off the right body language and facial expressions because that's a big part of your communication in a job interview.

2. When you get asked a difficult question, begin your response with, "That's a great question," and remember to smile.

Whenever you get asked one of those difficult questions in a job interview, those questions that just make us anxious, condition yourself to say, "That's a great question," because, psychologically, in my experience, when you say that's a good question and you say it with a smile on your face, you approach it like, "I'm going to answer this question the best that I can."

Also, the hiring manager knows they're asking you a hard question. That's why they're asking you. They want to see your reaction. So when your reaction is, "That's a great question," that tells them you're not afraid of that question. You're ready to answer that questionâa sign of confidence.

3. Learn how to answer behavioral interview questions.

The last and most important tip that will help you stay calm and confident in a job interview is to learn how to effectively answer behavioral interview questions. This is an essential part of interview prep.

Behavioral interview questions are open-ended questions designed to get inside your head and help the hiring manager learn how you think. And by having to give more than a one-word answer, it reveals more about your personality in the workplace, your aptitude, whether or not you're flexible, and your whole mentality and strategy. And this is really important because they're trying to find the right person for the job. By learning how to effectively answer behavioral interview questions, you'll be sure to show the hiring manager you are the right person for the job.

It's completely normal to feel nervous before a job interview. I hope these three tips will help you stay calm and confident during your next one. Good luck, and go get 'em!

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How To Stay Calm And Confident In …

Not all of us are fortunate enough to land our dream job, aka the kind of job we dreamed about having when we were kids. For some, a dream job would be becoming a teacher, a fireman, a pilot, or any other job you would be thrilled to have. You should consider yourself lucky if you land your dream job at some point in your life.

Perhaps the most perplexing part of the hiring process is that many people end up in jobs that don't line up with what they studied in college. For example, you may have studied law but could have ended up balancing ledgers in a commercial firm for a living. If you want to find out what careers you'd thrive in, take this FREE Career Decoder Quiz!

It's one thing to pursue your dream job, but it takes time and dedication to actually land it.

If you're chasing your dream career, follow these tips for your chance at success!

Realize That It's Not Enough To Dream

First and foremost, it's important to narrow down what exactly your dream job is. Anybody can dream, but it takes hard work to turn this dream into reality.

It's important to know who you are, your strengths and weaknesses, and how you can effectively use those strengths and work on your weaknesses. A good approach to this is to be calm and positive, as well as objective.

Determining what your dream job is based on your strengths, competencies, and capabilities are all great first steps in realizing your career goals and dreams.

Put Yourself In Your Dream Employer's Shoes

Woman on laptop thinks about what she's going to write

Both employers and employees need to benefit from one another in the hiring process.

From an employer's perspective, it is in terms of finding solutions for their problems and contributing to the overall goals and objectives of the business.

As a candidate for your dream job, you need to think of how well you can add value to the company, and how you can use your skills to better the company as a whole. This type of thinking will set you apart from other candidates.

Effectively Sell Your Skills

Man talks to a coworker and shakes his hand

Companies operate in competitive environments, and because of that, it's necessary that those in pursuit of their dream careers need to make some personal and organizational sacrifices. Effective skill selling means you take your qualifications, experiences, skill sets, and competencies and use them to attract and retain prospective employers.

While it is necessary to present your credentials in a fair light, it's also important to substantiate facts and evidence through quantifying your experience. However, you shouldn't sell yourself short, as doing so could hinder sustainable career growth and development.

Consider What Your Daily Life Would Be Like In Your Dream Job

Woman thinks about her future and considers what life would be like if she got her dream job

There are lots of reasons to pursue dream jobs, including growth prospects and job satisfaction. These reasons need to be nurtured and satisfied in the dream job.

It's also important to consider that your concept of a dream job may change over time, and what may have been considered a dream job before may not be the case anymore.

You need to identify if your skills and competencies are in sync with market realities before making the final call on a dream job. You should create focused plans and strategies aimed at helping you land a job you'll love.

Remember, when looking for your dream job, you should consider a blend of rewards and growth opportunities, as well as map out a plan to meet your goals head-on.

Need more help with your job search?

Become a member to learn how to land a job and UNLEASH your true potential to get what you want from work!

This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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4 Tips For Finding Your Dream Job

Interviewing is nerve-wracking even in the best of circumstances. If you feel like you're under a microscope, it's because you are! Employers want to make sure that you can do the job. But, just as importantly, they want to determine if you can fit in with their team.

Likability is an intangible component of your interview, so how do you ensure that you come across as likable as well as competent? What do you do when your interview isn't going in the right direction?

The fact is that there is no magic formula. Your best bet is to prepare for the interview as well as you can. If the interview doesn't seem to be going well, you can try to pivot a little, but sometimes there is nothing you can do. If the interviewer has already made up their mind to go with another candidate and they're just going through the motions by interviewing you, that isn't on you.

These things do happen, though, perhaps more than we know. You need to be aware of what is going on during your interview so that you can try to adjust to the extent that you can.

Here are three signs your job interview isn't going well:

They Didn't Have A Good Reaction To Your Success Stories

Job candidate talks to hiring managers and realizes the interview isn't going well

You may have a story of a success that in the past has gotten nods of approval or smiles from your interviewer(s). If you tell the same story with the same zest and you don't get the same or similar reaction, it may mean that they aren't listening, didn't get the point of the story, or missed the importance of the success.

It could also be a sign that you have failed to connect with the interviewer from the start, and they aren't as attentive as you need them to be to get why you are the most qualified candidate.

They Seemed Bored And Distracted

Job candidate thinks the hiring managers/interviewers seem bored and distracted during his job interview

If the interviewer keeps looking at their phone or computer screen, they may be displaying a lack of interest in what you have to say, or they may just be distracted by something that is going on that is taking precedence over your interview. Perhaps they are monitoring an emergency situation, but they can't or don't share that with you. Or maybe they have just decided that they aren't going to hire you, so nothing you say will make a difference. Again, they are just going through the motions.

Without being rude yourself, there is little you can do to get them to pay attention to you unless you manage to get their attention with a witty remark or a humorous story. Everyone usually responds to humor if it is well-delivered and natural. Not everyone can pull that off, however, and it is especially challenging if you are nervous.

They Didn't Tell You About Next Steps Or Ask If You Have Questions For Them

If the interview has gone badly, interviewers won't ask if you have any questions for them and they won't offer what the next steps will be. If you ask and they seem vague or reluctant to tell you when they expect to fill the job, that is another sign that you probably aren't going to be considered as one of the finalists.

Sometimes circumstances are just out of your control, and there is nothing you can do to save an interview that isn't going well. As a post-interview exercise, you should considerâfrom hello to goodbyeâhow you believe you performed and what the reactions of your interviewer(s) were.

Did you fail to prepare properly?
Did you practice well enough beforehand that you were able to contain your nerves?
Were you prepared with the right kind of answers to the questions you were asked?
Were you concise in your responses or did you ramble?
Did you keep to the issue of your ability to do the job or did you veer off into the personal and wind up sharing too much?

If the interview has obviously gone bad and you are pretty sure you aren't going to receive an offer, chalk it up to good experience and move on. Learn from the experience. Avoid blaming the entire situation on the interviewer. Perhaps you could have done something to engage their interest and change their minds about you during the interview.

Take responsibility for your performance and try to figure out how you can improve moving forward. Learn from your mistakes, adjust your approach if necessary, and move on. Perhaps that job wasn't the best one for you anyway. Maybe not getting that job is a good thing. It frees you up for a better opportunity which may be just around the corner.

Interviews are a necessary part of every job search. Learn how to prepare. Learn how to handle your nerves. Practice with a friend or a coach until you hone the answers to the questions you are sure to be asked and can deliver them with confidence. Nothing replaces appropriate preparation, so if you do the work, you'll always see results. Your hard work will pay off, we promise!

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3 Signs Your Interview Isnât Going In …

It's completely normal to feel nervous before a job interview. But once you're face-to-face with the interviewer, you know you'll succeed. You're qualified. You meet all the requirements for the position. And...you really want the job. Your nerves will go away because you have confidence in yourself.

But what if those nerves worsen once your interview begins? What if you struggle to stay confident during job interviews?

When you lack confidence in yourself, hiring managers pick up on that quickly, and it can greatly hurt your chances of receiving a job offer. Here are three tips that will help you stay confident in a job interview:

1. Write Down All Your Answers (And Read Them Out Loud!)

Interviewing, like everything else in our lives, becomes easier once it feels like a habitâsomething that we do all the time without overthinking it. The best way to make an interview feel natural and conversational is to practice.

Write down your answers to as many interview questions as you can. Then, read them out loud. Read them until you can say them in your sleep (that's when you know you're prepared!).

This will not only help you feel confident answering difficult interview questions, but it will also help you identify which answers you need to work on.

2. Visualize Your Interview Success

Man is confident during an interview after visualizing his success

If you can visualize yourself succeeding in a job interview, your actions will follow. It's not really "faking it until you make it." It's more like conditioning your body to think of a job interview as a positive experience, rather than a negative one. Turn that nervousness into excitement!

Visualization is one of the keys to being more confident in your job interviews. When it comes time to shake the hand of the hiring manager, it'll feel like you've done the interview a thousand times because, in your head, you have!

3. Do A Mock Interview With A Friend

A woman helps her friend by doing a mock interview

Practicing the interview beforehand is a great way to gain confidence. By doing a mock interview with a friend or colleague, you'll get the feedback you need to ensure you're going into the job interview polished and well-prepared. Your friend can offer constructive criticism and some much-needed words of encouragement.

Never do a mock interview with a family member. Your family is very biased. When you do a mock interview with a family member, they are often either overly critical or complimentary, both of which won't do anything to help your confidence and performance when you get to the actual job interview.

Friends and colleagues, on the other hand, will give you honest feedback. They'll challenge you to perform better. Some professionals have a hard time taking feedback without taking it personally, and that's okay. Just think of the feedback from your mock interview as feedback that will help you feel more confident when the big day comesâfeedback that will, ultimately, help you land a job.

Everyone is more confident when they're comfortable. These three tips will help you stay confident in your next job interview and feel comfortable answering any questions the hiring manager decides to throw at you.

Acing an interview is easy when it feels like second nature!

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How To Stay Confident During Job Interviews

In this day and age there are a number of good jobs for people with social anxiety. The variety of positions in the job market and a rise in remote work means that there are plenty of options available. This list will help you come up with some ideas that fit your needs. 1. Developer […]

The post The 29 Best Jobs For People With Social Anxiety In 2023 appeared first on Career Sherpa.

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The 29 Best Jobs For People With …

How To Make Your Resume More Impressive To Recruiters

Standing out from other job candidates in the hiring process often comes down to having a great resume. If you want to make your resume legitimately more impressive to recruiters, then I'm going to teach you a technique that will help you do just that.

Quantify Your Work Experience!

@j.t.odonnell How To Make Your Resume More Impressive To Recruiters ðððððð there's one technique I've been teaching as a career coach for over 20 years to help people make their resumes more impressive to recruiters. and that is to quantify their results and use numbers. numbers are the easiest thing to read and absorb on a resume and when you put your numbers on there you can help a recruiter better understand the depth of your experience. in this video I walk you through examples of how you should Circle every now and every verb on your resume and use that as your guideline for quantifying. if you're not sure what the numbers are conservatively guesstimate. just make sure you go lower than what you think they were so that you can back it up. the reality is recruiters are looking to understand if you're a match for the job and when they have numbers to back it up it's easier for them to go to the hiring manager to prove you are the candidate that should be considered. in short you can make yourself more impressive with this very simple technique. and thanks to tiktok I now have been able to put together the 25 most common resume and Linkedin questions I get asked as a career coach and all the answers are right here in one place for you to access them. I hope this helps you set up your resume and Linkedin profile so you can stand out and get the interviews you deserve! #resume #resumetips #resumeadvice #resumehelp #linkedin #jobsearch #careercoachontiktok #careerhelp #careeradvice #howtofindajob #linkedinprofile #linkedintips â¬ original sound - J.T. O'Donnell

When you think about your resume, you will hear recruiters talk about how they want you to quantify your experience. That simply means you should add numbers to your experience to help them quickly understand the depth of your expertise.

Here's an example...

Let's say you worked in digital marketing and you have a bullet point in your resume that says, "Worked on digital marketing projects that resulted in an increase in revenues." That doesn't tell recruiters any valuable information. But if you were to say, "Worked on 20+ digital marketing projects that resulted in a 250% increase in revenues," instead, the depth is there.

It's also important to note that numbers are the easiest thing to read on a resume. And recruiters are skimmers. They're going to skim through your resume quickly, but the numbers can stop them dead in their tracks.

Having trouble quantifying your work experience? Follow these tips:

Circle every noun and every verb on your resume.
For each noun and verb, ask yourself:
- How many?
- How much?
- How often?
- What percentage?
Focus on profit/revenue increases, cost savings, time savings, etc.

By following these tips, you will quickly find that you can quantify your experience and add numbers to any bullet point on your resume. I challenge you to try this in your job search for an impressive resume. I've had so many people come to me and say, "There's nothing that you can quantify about me or my experience," and I've been able to quantify them every single time.

Here's another example...

A receptionist came to me and said, "Yeah, I just work the phones really well." So I asked her, "How big is your company? How big is the phone line system? How many phone calls do you field a day?"

This was her response: "I work at a 300-person company where I field over 200 phone calls a day on a 12-line phone system."

That is exactly what recruiters want to see when they say you should quantify your experience.

We all have numbers. Even if you don't know the exact numbers, you can make a conservative guess so that you feel confident you're giving accurate information.

By quantifying your experience, you'll create a resume that is more impressive to recruiters, and you'll be sure to stand out from the other job candidates in the hiring process.

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How To Make Your Resume More Impressive …

With the sky-high prices of a college education today, the sad reality is students are graduating severely in debt. Even worse, many are unable to find good-paying jobs and are underemployed.

Well, here's some good news. You may not need to go to college to find a great career!

The Trades Are Hot! Here's Why...

Just ask Mike Rowe, the host of the show"Dirty Jobs" and founder of the site mikeroweworks.org. He'll tell you: There's an absurd belief that a four-year degree is the only path to success. Moreover, his foundation is showing five reasons why careers in the trades are some of the best career paths to be focused on right now, both in terms of income and job security.

1. Trade Jobs Are More Active

Most jobs that require a college degree have you sitting at a desk in an office all day long. Plenty of studies show a sedentary lifestyle is bad for your health. Trade jobs are more active and involve you keeping busy and moving your body.

2. You Don't Need To Invest In An Expensive Education

Woman at apprenticeship to learn a trade

Most trade jobs are learned through apprenticeships or require a certification that takes far less time and money to complete than a pricey, four-year degree.

3. You Don't Need To Take Time Off From Earning Money

Woman happy with her decision to learn a trade

Going back to school full-time requires having money saved to cover your living costs. With a trade job, you're working right away and earning an income, not draining your savings.

4. There's No Shortage Of Work

Tradesman knows the best reasons to work in a trade

Currently, all the trades are losing their aging workforce of baby boomers (ages 57-75). There aren't enough middle-aged workers to replace them. The trades are desperately short on new workers. Right now, if you work in a trade and are good at what you do, there's plenty of opportunity to make money.

5. The Working Hours Can Be More Flexible

Many trades have different shifts (work nights, or work three days on/four days off, etc.), that are more appealing than the typical office job where you work all day, 40-50 hours/week. Trade jobs can give you the flexibility you need to take a class, start your own business, or pursue a passion.

Don't Let Pride Hold You Back From A Great Job In The Trades

Man satisfied with his job in the trades

Some people just weren't meant to go to college and hold a desk job. That doesn't mean you are less qualified or professional. Trade jobs do important, much-needed work. They take skill and provide incredible value. More importantly, many trade workers will tell you they get great satisfaction from being able to see the direct results of their effortsâwhich their office working friends can't do as easily.

Don't let pride hold you back from pursuing a successful career in the trades. There is only one person you need to impress with your career: YOU. Choose for yourself, not for others!

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