"Do you know of any job openings?"          If the answer is “NO,” it’ll be a short conversation.  “Do you know of any job openings?” is an ill-advised way to open a networking conversation.  In fact, it’s a “conversation killer!” Parts 1 and 2 of this 4-part Networking-HOW TO-series discussed how to have a productive conversation by

Do you know of any job openings?           If the answer is “NO,” it’ll be a short conversation. “Do you know of any job openings?” is an ill-advised way to open a networking conversation.  In fact, it’s a “conversation killer!” Part 1 of this 4-part Networking-HOW TO-series explained why!  It also explained the make-up of a good 1-to-1

Do you know of any job openings?           If the answer is “NO,” it’ll be a short conversation. “Do you know of any job openings?” is an ill-advised way to open a networking conversation.  In fact, it’s a “conversation killer!” Why can’t you ask this “conversation-killer” question? . . . Because if the answer is “No I don’t”,

Do I have to? . . . .  Yes you do if you want to find a better position in a shorter amount of time! If you dread the idea of going up to strangers whose paths you cross and striking up a conversation, you are far from alone.  Many, if not most folks - if the truth were told - deplore the idea.  They’d prefer a root canal! The"Hidden Market" However, the truth also to be told

Tips on How to Seize the Opportunities of a Job Fair "Do they have any jobs?" asks a job seeker upon hearing that there is going to be a Job Fair.       "No, they don't have any openings at this time." "Then what is the point of going to the Job Fair?" ask a job seeker. What is the point indeed?  There is a big point in attending a job fair and talking with companies

The #1 Interview Question:  Tell me about yourself! The interview is beginning.  The interviewer looks across her desk and asks the interview "ice breaker" question to start the conversation. . .     "Why don’t you tell me a little about yourself?”   The interviewee stammers a little, hems and haws, clears his throat, and begins a monologue that goes on way,

What is the Number 1 Question to Avoid when beginning a networking conversation?          "Do you know of any job openings?" Why?        If the answer is “NO,” it’ll be a short conversation. Instead of asking this conversation-killer, plan ahead.  Plan to ask questions that draw your networking contact out.  Ask

Networking can lead to interviews.  Getting comfortable with networking can generate the kind of meetings and conversations in which you uncover leads to your next position or to enhance the one you already have! Why networking?  Through networking, you can often identify needs before they turn into openings, and openings before they are announced on the Open Market. With networking, you

Over the years, I have asked many, many job seekers after they landed a new job or role:     “If you had it to do over again, what would they do differently?                Their answer:  follow up.  To find a new position quicker, follow-up is a must!  It is not enough to just submit an application or resume

You've decided to look for a new position.  You’ve written your resume.  You are ready to go!   Right? . . . .  Wrong.  Your resume is only the first of several tools you will need to market yourself in today's employment marketplace.  After all, if finding a job is all about selling yourself  -  and it is  -- then you will need all your sales tools