Blog: Violet Nikolici Lowrey, MBA, CPRW, CEMC

 

Here is a great aol article I read and wanted to share it with you.  One of the most important reasons why an employer wants to hire you is having relevant experience!

Well, what if you do not have any and you have gaps on your resume?  I am trying to help job seekers one at a time and this Wednesday, I will be doing a free teleseminar on closing the gaps on your resume. 

You want to give great reasons for the employer to hire you, read this article and also, call in to see how to help close the gaps on your resume... remember, they want relevant experience.

 

http://jobs.aol.com/articles/2009/10/08/top-10-reasons-employers-want-to-hire-you/

Have a great day!

I have done numerous workshops in our community and most recently, I did a Dress for Success, Resume and Interview Tips workshop for the Hollywood Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees)!

There were many people there from the community, including job seekers like yourself!

I was able to talk about how you need to have a professional resume and be able to present yourself in the best possible way in the interview process by being prepared. Another tip was to Dress for Success! We had Dillard's from Galleria Mall "in the house" to show us the latest business fashions.

Today, I became a fan of SYMS, just like Dillard's and I noticed this article they had published on their fan page. Lot os of information on Dressing for Success, so I thought I would share.

I would like to add that I know we live in Florida, but, we are too casual! I think we should all step it up to look more polished. I think it is appropriate and professional to wear pantyhose in an interview and most times when wearing a skirt or dress. (this is for women). There are many other things...put it this way... if you have to ask, should I take this out or maybe I should cut my hair, etc...chances are you should do it. So anyway, read on, and I hope you enjoy!

The Problem: In today's world, where casual dress is the rule and where too many people's sense of casual has crossed the line into slovenly, many people, especially young people, show up for white-collar job interviews dressed in a highly unprofessional fashion. ---- you see I told you!

The Experts: Here fashion expert Roger McKenzie and executive interview coach Trisha Scudder offer their views.
Both are based in NYC and are consultants to SYMS, a leading discount retailer of brand-name clothing, especially business attire, in and around NYC.

QUESTION: What rules of thumb do you offer regarding dressing for interviews for white-collar positions? In particular, what do you tell women, who do not have a business "uniform" as well-defined as a man's conservative dark suit, white shirt and tie? Indeed, many women show up at interviews dressed in too flashy or revealing a manner.

ROGER'S ANSWER: Since women have many more options in their fashion attire they have to be even more careful about what they wear to make sure it is appropriate. ( hence why you always go more conservative and with a dark suit... I know they will go over this, but I agree!)

* If a woman chooses to wear a skirt, the length should be at her knee, and slacks are welcome also.
* In general, a woman should stick to dark colors for the shell and earth tones for the under layer of the suit.
* It is acceptable to wear short sleeves but it should be paired with a jacket or cardigan. A twin set is a good way to put this look together.
* Women also need to be aware of the way their top fits; of course cleavage is a big no no.
* When it comes to accessories, it should be kept at a minimum: nothing too flashy, heel height should not exceed 3 inches, and makeup should be very clean and natural.

TRISHA'S ANSWER: A woman should always wear a suit. It demonstrates respect for the interviewer, the company and the position. For any job in financial services, wear a suit. Other tips that one should remember are:

* If you're a guy applying for a creative position in a creative industry then you might drop the tie, but still wear a suit jacket.
* For women, a suit also. And watch what you wear under it. Often women (of all ages) wear a business suit with a V-neck or low-cut blouse revealing cleavage during an interview. I can't say that backfires every time but most times that will send the wrong message whether you are interviewed by women or men.
* This is no time to make a fashion statement. Be conservatively dressed so that the attention is on your resume, your qualifications and your response to questions. Anything distracting about your clothes, shoes, jewelry or hair will only cause the interviewer to "vote" on it, and you lose.
* At conservative companies bare legs would be inappropriate at an interview. Wear pantyhose if you are wearing a suit with a skirt.
* Dental work. If you chipped a tooth or had one extracted, reschedule the interview for a time when your teeth are all accounted for! Seriously, I've had to tell two clients to get their teeth fixed before they proceed with interviews. ( if you are local, I have a great dentist!)
* Clean shoes and clothes, freshly pressed.
* Women, clean out and organize your handbag prior to the interview. If you have to find a pen or get a Kleenex you don't want to rummage through a rat's nest. ( yes, I know, I have to do this more often!)
* Create an attractive, professional way to carry and display your resume, references, work samples, etc.
* Practice your handshake. Ask a friend for feedback. Is it too soft? Too aggressive? Too limp? Are your eyes down? Are you solemn or smiling? Be sure your handshake is firm and enthusiastic and brief. You do not want a memorable handshake! ( no dead fish or clammy hands)
* Go to the restroom prior to the interview and look in the mirror. Swig some mouthwash or brush your teeth again. Wash your hands from the subway. Practice your smile. Stand tall. Stride in, chin up, and have a great interview! ( you must practice this before hand...it works! If you do not have nay one to practice with...Use a mirror or even a bottle of water...anything that you can look at.

QUESTION: What basic tips do you offer for putting together a wardrobe in a cost-effective manner after understanding what are the norms of attire in the workplace that one is joining?

ROGER'S ANSWER: You should have plethora of top options to pair up with a bottom which you can repeat a number of times. Remember when at an interview you are sitting across a desk so more than likely you won't see your lower half.

Thanks for reading and I wish you success in your job search! Have a great day!

Violet

 

As you know, this past weekend was Halloween. I am always telling my clients to know their strengths, accomplishments, how they could be a value to their next employer, and most of all, know how to network and stand out from their competition. Think of this as your "30 second commercial" or snap shot of your business card.

Here is a great example of what happened this past weekend.

On Thursday before Halloween, I was the guest speaker at a meeting. I brought little bags of candy with my business card attached because I know how to do the little things that market my business. I had extra bags of candy and gave out the candy with my card attached on Halloween night.

The next day, Sunday, one of the parent's called me to say that was creative of me to attach my business card to the bag of candy. But more importantly, he is an HR Director for a local company and asked if I knew of individuals that had sales experience. I was excited to tell him yes, and actually it was a fellow neighbor that was looking for a job.

I called both of them, they spoke and tomorrow he has an interview!!! That is the power of Creative Networking!

Just like Jessica posted about helping each other out on the Fan Page...think outside the box. Even though the job may not be for you...do you know someone else who may be a fit!

Get creative...happy November! I'm here to help you too!

Interviewing Part II

OK, in the last blog I gave you some actual life scenarios (some funny, but true) that my friend ran into when hiring and here are some items she said are a must do when going to the interview. I agree with all of them!

Here's a top ten must do list:

1. Come prepared. Know the company's business, trends in the market, and its org structure. (So, the person interviewing with her, better know the department in government that she runs)
2. Do not refer to the people interviewing you by their first names. (Yo, Joe)
3. Bring several copies of your resume, and it should only be one-two pages, unless you are a professor.
4. Ask good questions, like what would be a measure of my success here or how do you define success in this office?
5. Avoid saying anything negative about a former employer or gossiping about what happened at your last office. (that jerk!)
6. Be prepared to discuss what your strengths are and why they need to hire you.
7. Be prepared to discuss your past accomplishments, not just your duties.
8. Do not bring anything in writing that contains grammar or spelling errors on it.
9. Arrive early.
10. Use a firm handshake. If your hands are clammy...wipe on pant leg discreetly before extending arm.

So there you have it...tips from another prospective. Valid, to the point, and useful!
Once again, Happy Job Hunting! Have a Successful Day!

A friend of mine that works in government sent me the following true to life scenarios...
please don't let this happen to you, and if it has, please correct today!

Top things not to say in an interview....or have been uttered before...

1. How much vacation time will I get and how soon can I take it?
2. Do you have casual Friday?
3. Will I have an assigned parking space and how close to the building is it?
4. My last employer and I had a toxic relationship.
5. What are the office amenities, like coffee, tea. Etc?
6. If you make me an offer, will I have a few days to think it over?
7. Here's a writing sample I did in 1990, it's the original coffee stains, construction paper cover and all.
After not receiving an offer of employment, candidate called and asked for writing sample to be returned.
8. When asked hypothetically how they deal with the boss deciding to go in a direction different than the one they would be pitching, candidate answered, "I would take it into consideration but, would do what I think is best"
9. My current office is micromanaging me and I can't take my boss anymore.
10. When asked if the candidate has a resume, candidate answers, "you did not tell me to bring one"

Remember...be yourself, be prepared, be alert, be honest, and don't be one of the people above!

P.S. Don't forget your resume!

A client called me and thought he was crazy to go for a promotion in this economy.

Once I asked all the questions, such as..."Are you qualified for the position?"...What are the circumstances that led to this opening?"..."Do you want the position?" was the ultimate question, and he said YES!!!

My answer to him was, "GO FOR IT!"

Of course, my first piece of advice was to make sure that he has an outstanding resume which highlights all of his accomplishments. What did he contribute to the success of the department in which he was now applying to be director of, this is key...especially when going for a promotion.

Yes, once again, there are jobs out there and many opportunities for advancement.

If you have the goods, GO FOR IT!

My client was the right hand man of the executive and without him, nothing would happen! He was one level under the executive and had all the experience, knew all the players of the company, and knows what it takes to bring value to the company, he is a great candidate, if not the candidate! His concern was that he will jeopardize his current situation...I do not think so. By applying he is showing confidence in his performance, ability to lead, and desire to grow professionally. I know there is always office politics, but who cares!

Don't be afraid to apply for a better position. GO FOR IT!

Again, just be sure to prepare your self for the the interview and position!

Be prepared to:

-Present your resume with all of your contributions to the company

-Get interviewed

-Tell your managers what direction the company or your department is going in

-Why you would be the ideal choice

Don't let an opportunity pass you by!

Keep your eyes open, ears a listening, feet ready to run, and resume in hand! Good luck!

 

 

I read an article today that I saw posted by a fellow colleague on linkedin. The link is below.

This is a very useful article, because if you were trying to decide on a career or transition into a specific industry with your IT skills, this may be a good choice.

The article continued…

A recent survey by IT staffing firm Robert Half Technology of 244 healthcare CIOs found fourth quarter hiring plans include the following skills:

·  Network administration (76%)

·  Desktop support (72%)

·  Windows administration (61%)

·  Wireless network management (55%)

·  Database management (54%)

·  Telecommunications support (49%)

·  Web development/design (30%)

·  Virtualization (35%)

·  Business intelligence/reporting services (32%)

·  ERP implementation (26%)

So, remember, that the competition is fierce and you need to have all the skills/certifications they are looking for in addition to accomplishments on what you have done and what you have to offer. Make sure they are clearly stated on your resume.

Well, have a productive job search day!

Article:

http://www.informationweek.com/news/healthcare/EMR/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=220700404&pgno=2&queryText=&isPrev=

Ok, so by now, you know that as a job seeker you have to have a POWERFUL RESUME, but what else?

You need to be a POWERFUL NETWORKER, but more importantly, an EFFECTIVE NETWORKER.

Yes, your marketing tool is your resume, but you can't just sit home and wait for a job to magically appear.

I am a big advocate of community service and volunteering, so that is a great way that I network, maybe you can try it too.

Back to the point of checking to see if you are a Powerful Networker.

While reading the South Florida Business Journal, I noticed an article about this topic written by Great Schulz, so I felt that it was great content and wanted to share.

Here are 12 keys, she says, are great to utilize in becoming a powerful networker!

1. Don't try to sell... Well, as a job seeker, you are selling yourself, so, with this in mind, try to find out about the person and take an active listening role...You never know who they know.

2.Give before you get...Again, some of these tips are for business individuals as well, so this refers to giving referrals, but again, if you listen to what they are telling you, you may be able to refer them too, even though you are looking for a job.

3.This is one of my favorites in this article...Understand that it's network...WORK!!! Yes, you actually have to work, think, how can you help someone, who do I know that I can introduce them to, etc.

4.Be interesting. If this is hard for you, make sure you are up to date on your current events or have a great story lined up.

5.Set goals. Know how many people you would like to target...she says if new, start with two.

6.LOVE THIS ONE.... KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED FOR MINE...Throw a Rolodex party....for job seekers you can do this with job leads....help each other out.

7.HAHAHA.... Be interesting... she said this was so important, she listed it twice!!!

8.Make it easy to refer you.... Again, some business tips here, however, job seekers you know that you need to have a elevator pitch or commercial.

9.Play Matchmaker....self explanatory.... "Giver's Gain" (that is my BNI mind talking)

10.Say thank you

11.Test alliances quickly....again business

12.Have a system!!! This is HUGE!!!! If you just go and collect cards and do nothing with them, you just wasted lots of time and energy...for what? Have a system in place and make sure to follow up!

I learned something new in this article and I will implement one of the tips today! How about you?

You too can be a POWERFUL NETWORKER...DON'T FORGET YOUR POWERFUL RESUME!

Have a great weekend!!!

P.S. Halloween is a great time to network!!!

Here is an article that a job seeker sent me that I met last week at a "free community workshop" I gave on resume and interview tips!

It is absolutely true to check out anyone you are doing business with. Usually dealing with people who were recommended to you, have a great reputation in the community, and are involved in the community are good signs, they are good people (disclaimer, not always, but usually).

If you have a reputable job search tool such as Jobing.com, you can rest knowing that they deal with reputable companies, so make sure to include all of your contact info, but not personal info such as ss#'s.

Call the companies, ask around...Ask Jessica from Jobing.com...Do your part. I know sometimes it's tempting to finally get that job, but please use caution...Know that there are great jobs and great companies out there. Don't forget to network and volunteer!

Happy job hunting!

Violet

Avoid job-hunt scams
MoneySmart
WALECIA KONRAD
Usaweekend.com Issue Date: October 11, 2009

With unemployment on the rise, a new crop of job-hunting scams has hit the streets, says
certified fraud specialist Judd Rousseau. He cautions job seekers to watch out for these
three ruses that identity thieves are using to gain access to important personal and financial information:
Stimulus come-ons. Ignore e-mails or letters from phony government agencies enticing you with "job openings" associated with the federal stimulus plan. The government is recruiting,
but not via this method.
Bogus interview invites. An e-mail from a corporate site invites you to a distant city for an
interview. Your travel costs won't be paid, but you're encouraged to arrange discounted travel
through a "corporate office." This ploy nabs credit card and other information.
Bad guys on good sites. Even legitimate job-search sites have been hit with scammers.
For that reason, never include any personal information -- even your address -- on a résumé
that you post online or send via e-mail. Save any e-mail exchanges that you have, and ask a
potential employer to contact you by phone or to interview you in person.
Copyright 2009 USA WEEKEND. All rights reserved.

Today is the anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas,
which occurred on October 12, 1492.

Happy Columbus Day!

So, this is an example of what Christopher Columbus would put on his resume as an accomplishment...Discovering America!!! Huge, right?

As we reflect on what an accomplishment this was in our history, this is the time when you should reflect on what you have done and what you can offer to your perspective employer!

I recently met with a job seeker that is a RN. She received a prestigious award from a very well known local hospital for her excellence in her field and superior customer service, but it was not on her resume.

I asked her why and she said she just thought she would be showing off....Yes, show off!!! Especially, when it is in a specialized field and local employers that you want to work for, know of this award. Highlight it at the top of your resume. Something like.... "Super Duper Award Winning RN" with expertise in .... You get the idea.

In this competitive market, you need to bring your "A" game. You need to show the employer why you are of value....What have you done and what can you do for them? Be specific!

Christopher Columbus if asked by an employer...What have you done? can say ... "Discovered America!" What can you bring to the table? He can say a world of experience (haha).

Remember, your resume is your marketing tool that sells you...But, don't sell yourself short!

Enjoy your day and GO DOLPHINS!!!

Update Your Resume Month... Live from the National Junior Chamber (Jaycee) Conference...
Tip: Yes, Volunteering Works! It helps you...closes gaps on your resume. 
Just had a conversation with a Jaycee from MI said that the various projects she worked on
helped her with relevant expereince on her resume, enabling her to
land her job within one month after getting laid off!!! So, get out there and volunteer!!!!

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the National Conference!

Violet

Creator of "PIMP MY CRAPPY RESUME"

I just read a great article on Forbes.com with the Top paying jobs for women and I wanted to share with it with you.

The reason it caught my attention, 1. I am a woman (obviously) and 2. I wanted to share that in case you are thinking of a career path, here are some great choices:

These were their Top 5:

5. Computer & Information Managers

4. Computer Software Engineers

3. Lawyers

2. Chief Executives

and the # 1. Pharmacists!!!

I have to say, I was so excited to see Pharmacists as #1, because my very dear friend graduated May 2008 from Nova Southeastern University's Pharmacy School, which is very good (I went to NSU, can you tell, GO SHARKS), and now she is a pharmacist!

But more importantly why I wanted to share this with you is that she changed careers! She was a middle school teacher and wanted to change her career. Yes, in her mid 30's she went back to school, towards the end of her last year, got pregnant with child #3, finished in May, giving birth in June!!!!  She is amazing! 

We all have dreams and goals...make them a reality.  I am not telling you to change your career from a teacher to a pharmacist, or go back to school, but merely giving you an example that it is possible to start a new career.

Anohter point of this blog is to let you know which industries are thriving.  This is a great blog for young women starting their careers that need some guidance.  Also, for you men reading...there are plenty of opportunities for you as well in these industries and jobs.

As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Coach, and someone who cares about the community, it is much easier to get what you want, when you know what you want and you have an action plan to get there.

There are plenty of opportunities out there for everyone, but you must Take Action.

Also, being professionally prepared is essential as well.  With September being Update Your Resume Month, I have taken on the responsibility to do my part in eduating you. Please join me tongiht on a FREE webinar: "How to Write a Resume"

Have a Successful Day!

Violet

 

 

Once again, September is Update Your Resume Month!

I just ran into a situation today and thought I would share it with you, and it is a perfect Tip!

Tip of the day: Make sure your contact information is correct!

I had someone send me their resume to review this morning.  When I returned from a meeting, I called the client, or at least I tried to call the client.

The phone number listed on his resume was incorrect~!!! I emailed him and he called me back. Boy was he thankful!  What he did was transpose the numbers.  He had no clue he did it, because in his mind, he knew his number and put it down on paper, or so he thought!

It is very important to update your information correctly, and review it over and over. 

No wonder why some people do not get called for an interview, they can't reach you!

Review all of your information on your resume.  Also, remember, you may have an older copy of a resume floating out there and you changed your number or email address...or even moved!

Always make sure your information is correct and constantly update!

Happy Update Your Resume Month! Free Webinar: "How to Write a Resume" Thursday Sept. 3

Violet

Ok, Update Your Resume Month is finally here! I am very excited because I am here to help!

I will be sharing valuable information with you all month long. 

Today's Tip: Keep a Resume Journal

A resume journal you say?! Yes...

A resume journal is your career journal.  Keep track of all the accomplishments you have achieved at your job(s).  Keep track of clients, key clients. Keep track of valuable, measured results.  For example, if you are in sales...how much did you sell?  Did you meet or exceed your goals?  Are you in management? How many people did you manage? Were you recognized for being the top manager? How about customer service?  Any job you have or have had, you should keep track.  Anything that is new, update your journal.  Continuing education, professional development, new skills, etc.

I have a resume journal too, where I keep track of the clients I meet with, projects I am working on, boards I am appointed to, awards or nomiations that I receive,  new certifications, organizations or corporations that I work with, speaking engagements, and more.

The point is, get in the habit of writing down what you have done and keep track of it.

Let me share with you a story about a client today...a perfect example of what I mean by having a resume journal.

One of the clients I met with today, is very successful and had lots of information to share with me about her career history.  What I did not expect was a file about three inches thick with letters, documents, articles, etc. and she said, "Here you go!"

WOW! Even though I am happy to read all the information, if she had a resume journal, it would be easier to read than going through all those documents and choosing what is information is valuable.

So, get out that journal and start writing!

Violet Nikolici Lowrey

Join me on September 3, 2009 for a FREE Webinar: "How to Write a Resume"

 

Yes, it's true...there is an Update Your Resume Month and it has been here before the current job market.

I'm excited to tell you about it, because it gives me the opportunity to give you valuable tips all month long including events that you can attend that will help you with your job search.

So, stay tuned and get your resume journal ready. Here's the official Press Release!

 
PROFESSIONAL RÉSUMÉ WRITERS CELEBRATE NINTH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL UPDATE YOUR RÉSUMÉ MONTH

For Immediate Release – This September marks the ninth annual International Update Your Résumé Month, officially proclaimed by Career Directors International (CDI). During the entire month, CDI members will dedicate their efforts to boosting industry awareness and encouraging the public to update their own résumés.

Members will be available to local and national media to answer questions and offer expertise about résumés, cover letters, job interviews, and job search strategies.

Since most careers require a résumé in order to gain employment, it’s important that job seekers take a proactive approach in order to be ready for any and all opportunities that crop up. Too often people try to write a résumé at the last minute, which is the worst time to prepare a document that needs to be perfect.

A well-crafted résumé takes time and research, and Update Your Résumé Month is a perfect reminder to be prepared for new opportunities.

For questions regarding Résumés, Interviewing, Dress for Success, Career Coaching or Entrepreneurial Education, please contact CDI member, Violet Nikolici Lowrey of A Plus Professional Resumes, your local Résumé Expert at 954-839-8552.

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