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10 Habits That Will Ensure Career Success

Career Success

Whether we like it or not, we spend much of our time working.  Most of us spend over 2,000 hours a year at work.  So if you aren’t happy with your present career or if you are trying to break into a new field, here are 10 essential habits for getting the job you want:

Original article click here.

1. Know your career mission statement

Make sure you are clear about what you want to accomplish with your career.  Say it out loud and claim it. Write down exactly what your mission statement is and post it where you can see it every day.

2. Audit your time

If you go to work every day, write down how you spend your time. Look for things that distract you or keep you from meeting your goals. Take out things that aren’t productive. If you are looking for employment, take a serious look at how you spend your time. How much time do you want to spend each day going to appointments or on the phone? How much do you need to devote to research for job interviews? Being accountable for your time helps you get the most from each minute.

3. Make sure your online brand is accurate

In today’s world, prospective employers, as well as current management, use the internet and social media to track you. So make sure you do the work first. Google your name, make sure your profile and your brand are on point. Delete anything that doesn’t represent who you are in the best possible light.

4. Daily gratitude

Whether you are struggling with a “not so great” job or are looking for that career break, take time for daily gratitude. You can find things that you are thankful for, no matter what the circumstances. This habit will change your attitude about yourself and your career. It is humbling to acknowledge all that you do have.

5. Be flexible

Employers are always looking for team members who will go with the flow and not complain when schedules or duties change. These types of employees are soon on the boss’s radar because they make him or her look good. People who accept changes cheerfully often find they are asked to work more projects and move up faster in the workplace.

6. Do not just seek approval

It is easy to adjust our actions or beliefs as employees if we are looking for the support of management. You may find yourself tempted to give in to particular demands of a prospective employer just to get the job. However, instead of seeking approval, you should focus on the impact your actions make. Will it enhance service for the customer? Do you go the extra mile to meet requirements? Approval is fleeting, but impact shapes policy. So, instead of asking yourself if the boss liked your performance, ask yourself if you did your best. Did you make a lasting impact on some part of the job? If you can say that, you are successful.

7. Arrive 30 minutes early

Like many employees, you may slide into the office just in time, with a minute to spare. Or maybe you plan your commute so that you just make it into your office before the boss. Here’s an easy habit to form: Get to the office 30 minutes before you begin your day. Have time to sit and reflect on your goals for the day. Take inventory of what you need to accomplish and prioritize. You will find that your day will be less chaotic, and employers see this as you taking initiative, to be ready on time and prepared.

8. Reach out often

Even if you already have a job, never stop networking with business friends and contacts. New opportunities are found quicker through word of mouth than any search engine. Keep an accurate, current list of contacts and use all of the social media to reach out and network.

9. Don’t underestimate the benefits of a mentor  

You can never go wrong by seeking guidance from someone who has been working in the field longer than you. Finding someone who can counsel you through challenging aspects of your career is invaluable. Don’t reinvent the wheel, just find out how others in your position have handled situations.

10. You will never finish

There is no perfect pinnacle to any career. There is always room to grow and expand. A career is about a journey, not reaching a certain destination. There will be another opportunity on the horizon. Always remain a student of your chosen field and be ready to grow.

What are you doing to help your career? Are you doing what you love?

 

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Power Writers USA wants to know what you think of this, and other blog articles we post.  Your career change is unique and PWUSA is here to help you along the way with Resume Writing Services, Cover Letter Writing, CV’s, LinkedIn Profiles Updates, and more.  Contact us now for a free consultation and resume evaluation!

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Job Search Strategies for Workers Over 40

Older Job Interviewer

Throughout your career the approach you take to a job search will vary depending on a great many factors.  We often encounter clients who are concerned about their age being an obstacle when trying to land a job.  But with the right resume, preparation, and attitude, you can capitalize on your age, and experience and make great leaps in your career.  This article offers some tips and strategies, beyond the resume work we provide, that can help you along the way. 

Original article Click Here.

Today’s aging global workforce, a stagnant economy, and widespread downsizing have forced a rising number of workers over 40 back in the job hunt.

Don’t let your age pose an obstacle to your job search. If you’re over 40 and seeking work, these eight job search strategies for workers over 40 can help you land a job.

8 Job Search Strategies for Workers Over 40

1. Don’t let your resume date you. Resume best practices have changed over the years so don’t let your resume date you. Ditch the references, one-size-fits-all resume, and snail-mail submissions. Don’t simply list your skills and experience, explain how you contributed to your organization’s success and the bottom line. Create a targeted resume for each position that is tailored to the job you seek and submit your resume electronically.

2. Become Web-Savvy. Technology know-how is crucial to your job search. Learn how to SEO your resume, use online application techniques, post on-line resumes and master online submissions. Peruse online job search sites, post a virtual resume and tap into online social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to network and look for jobs.

Create an online brand for yourself and market your brand through social media. Join listservs and forums relating to your field to expand your network and gain up-to-date knowledge.

3. Battle age discrimination. Although it is illegal, age discrimination exists in most industries, including the legal industry.

4. Update your skills. If you are changing careers or returning to the workforce, it’s important to keep your skills current. If necessary, return to school to complete a degree or take classes to brush up on certain skills. Technology skills are essential to most positions today and a basic understanding of word-processing, spreadsheet, presentation and calendaring applications are required for many jobs.

5. Network. Get involved in professional associations, volunteer programs, and networking groups to expand your networking contacts and learn about new opportunities. Focus on building relationships and helping others rather than your own job search.

6. Update Your Appearance. Even if you are older, you don’t want your appearance to scream “over 50.” Interviewers are influenced by your appearance so update your look to gain a competitive edge.

Color gray hair, update your wardrobe and purchase a trendy handbag and shoes. Presenting an image that polished and professional, not worn and dated, will help avoid the perception that your skills are not up to date or that you are too old-fashioned for the company.

7. Adapt to today’s work culture. Yesterday’s workforce was ruled by Baby Boomers who thrived in a hierarchical autocracy where top-down communication and regimented work culture were the norms. Today’s work environment is global, flexible, interconnected and round-the-clock. Telecommuting, flexible schedules, and 24/7 availability are becoming the norm. Understand how your role fits into the bigger picture and remain flexible.

8. Target the right employers. Older professionals might do best to focus on small to medium size organizations that are more likely to value a Boomer’s perspective, experience, and expertise.

For example, research by NALP (National Association of Law Professionals) has found that ​small law firms embrace older lawyers more readily that large firms.

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Power Writers USA wants to know what you think of this, and other blog articles we post.  Your career change is unique and PWUSA is here to help you along the way with Resume Writing Services, Cover Letter Writing, CV’s, LinkedIn Profiles Updates, and more.  Contact us now for a free consultation and resume evaluation!

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12 Simple Steps for Making Yourself Indispensable

Indispensable at Work

Becoming indispensable is not about power or position. It’s about taking charge of who you are, what you do, and how you show up.

Original article click here.

Feeling indispensable to your organization is a great combination of exhilaration and security. But in today’s workplace, where more and more of us feel disposable, what does it take to make yourself indispensable?

It starts with making a great name for yourself–communicating to those around you that you have the attributes of a successful person.

But more important, it requires that you visibly commit yourself to making a difference to your company, your team, your business–even your family and friends. It always turns out to be bigger than just you. But it always begins with you.

Here are some ways to position yourself as an indispensable member of any team:

1. Help others without expecting much in return. Learn to take pleasure in watching others succeed.

2. Dedicate yourself to high standards. Bring your best to everything you do, and constantly raise the bar for yourself.

3. Do what you say you will do. Don’t make commitments you cannot keep. Do what you say you will do and sometimes do more.

4. Be of value to others. Be the one people reach out to — the one from whom people seek mentorship and coaching, information, and solutions.

5. Be open and adaptable. Learn to embrace change and help others see the benefits of moving with the tides.

6. Be honest. Whether it’s a mistake, a missed deadline, or a bad judgment call, communicate openly and work hard to find good solutions to any problems you may have caused. Never engage in blame-placing.

7. Work hard and go the extra mile. People who are indispensable usually expand their role by going beyond their scope. Whatever their job is, they make a point of helping others and reaching out.

8. Learn more by being more. Do everything you can to make more of yourself. Volunteer for tasks outside your usual role; be eager to step up and take on more than your share. Do it with openness and effectiveness and a willing heart and mind, and it will make you invaluable.

9. Learn from every failure and every mistake. However bad the experience, learn to look at it and grow from it.

10. Focus on inclusion and collaboration. Learn to become the person who thrives on working with others.

11. Acknowledge and appreciate those around you. There’s no surer way to gain respect then to acknowledge and appreciate those around you.

12. Stay positive. It’s easy to become so focused on the finish line that you fail to enjoy the journey. Be positive and a joy to be around as you’re building your success.

Remember, the people who go around saying they’re indispensable never really are. Being indispensable doesn’t come from ego but from what others think of you as you help them succeed.

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Power Writers USA wants to know what you think of this, and other blog articles we post.  Your career change is unique and PWUSA is here to help you along the way with Resume Writing Services, Cover Letter Writing, CV’s, LinkedIn Profiles Updates, and more.  Contact us now for a free consultation and resume evaluation!

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4 Effective Ways to Deal With a Layoff

Dealing with a layoff

It’s important to stay positive if you are dealt a layoff.  There is not much sense spending your resources worrying.  Instead, take time to handle your business, and read this article and others like it to learn how you can make the most of the situation.  This may be a blessing in disguise.

Original article click here.

4 Effective Ways to Deal With a Layoff

You walk into your office on a nice Friday feeling hopeful and optimistic about the day ahead. Suddenly, you get called into the boss’s room for a “little talk”, and then it happens! You have been laid off by your company, and you see nothing but doom written all over your future.

This scenario has been a reality for many. Getting laid off without prior notice is a frightening prospect. The very thought of it makes our hearts skip a bit. It’s nothing personal though (well, most of the time), companies simply choose this as an easy way out whenever their economies start going south.

While the whole idea of unemployment is stressful and affects the self-esteem of a person and deteriorates their social status, but here are four ways to help you cope better after getting laid off, should you find yourself in this unfortunate position.

Check your emotions

A layoff can be traumatic in itself, and in the case of a sudden layoff, you feel all the more sad and disappointed. However, the workplace is definitely not a good place to express these emotions. No matter what the emotional status might be, don’t go about burning bridges inside your workplace as your actions can be misinterpreted or misunderstood. If you need to vent, do it in front of family and friends.

‘Reframe’ your career

Reframing basically involves taking a negative situation and turning it around to see it from a positive perspective. Being laid off is the perfect time to regroup and reframe your life and career. Take time to reassess your career choices to find out if you really are on the right path. A layoff might just prove to be right for you. It can help you deal with a complicated situation as well as act as a one way ticket out of a dead job.

Go job hunting

After the reassessment process, it’s time for you to dust off your ‘interview wear’ and go job hunting. Keep a tab on the classifieds to check out what kind of jobs are available for you. Yes, getting back into the market is going to be a little weird, but make use of all those networks that you have created to find out what employers are looking for. Many people use a layoff as a reason to pursue their ‘dream jobs’ or a passion that they always wanted to take up.

Reconnect with your network

This is probably the best time to update your LinkedIn profile and start networking again. Start building a larger network outside of your current employer. Seek professional help from your previous mentors and bosses for endorsements and recommendations. Do not forget that a lay off isn’t something personal – often, the employers feel equally bad while letting you go, hence they wouldn’t mind you asking for help. Obviously, you won’t be able to remain in their good books if you burn bridges in the first place.

An unprecedented unemployment can be a bad road block in the path of your professional career. However, expanding your horizons and broadening your mind can help you to look at it from a positive perspective. And who knows? You might make a comeback that’s better than ever!

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Power Writers USA wants to know what you think of this, and other blog articles we post.  Your career change is unique and PWUSA is here to help you along the way with Resume Writing Services, Cover Letter Writing, CV’s, LinkedIn Profiles Updates, and more.  Contact us now for a free consultation and resume evaluation!