tips

Why do Recruiters Hate Phone Screens

May 16, 2017

Okay, I’m back! Recruiting got busy for a minute so I took a much needed break. During this heavy recruiting season my disdain for phone interviews has increased. Trust me I’m not the only one! It amazes me how many people want jobs and those that get the opportunity to interview don’t prepare themselves.

Phone interviews can be tricky because you have to put a level of energy and preparedness into a conversation where you can’t see the person. If you want to get your dream position, most likely a phone interview will be a part of the equation. Here are some tips that will guide you in preparing for a successful phone interview:

Familiarize yourself with the company
- This is almost a deal breaker for me. To know that a candidate is “interested” in a position with a company they know nothing about is truly disappointing. Research the company website, use LinkedIn and other social medias sites to find out about the organization and it’s inner workings as much as you can.
Smile and stay engaged
- Make sure you are energized and smiling before you get on the phone. This can help translate your interests and level of engagement to the interviewer.
Know your resume
- Please make sure you are familiar with the work you’ve done (i.e. dates, companies, major projects, project results, etc.). If you don’t have a copy of your resume readily available study your work history, so you are better prepared.
Be able to give specific examples
- Not only are hiring managers looking for results-oriented individuals, recruiters are as well. If a question begins with, tell me about a time… or give me an example of… it requires an example that is specific (Behavior, Action, Results).
Have questions prepared
- Nothing like asking a candidate if they have any questions and they say, “No, I think you’ve answered most of my questions” or “No, I don’t have any questions”. If you are interested in a position you should ALWAYS have questions. Not only is the company interviewing you, but you are interviewing them as well.
Send a thank you note
- Follow-up notes are scarce these days but I believe in them for all stages of the interview process. Even if it’s just a phone interview, thank you notes can separate you from other candidates.

I hope these tips get you started on the right track to becoming a better phone interviewee!

Smiling Faces

April 6, 2017

You think you’re awesome…In fact, you do good work and it’s regularly documented in your performance reviews. I hate to be one that has to bring out what goes on behind the scenes, but this will help you if you let it. Corporate America and some of the leaders it produces will have you living a farce. If you are not having regular discussions with your manager discussing your performance, key performance indicators, constructive feedback, etc. you might not be doing well as you think. I’ve heard many stories and seen things (i.e. out of the blue terminations, performance improvement plans after years of mediocrity) that indicate there are managers who are scared to manage, which is a disservice to your career.

Let’s take a recent case study, Pepsi (a moment of silence)… There are many reasons why the advertisement was a disaster but that’s for another post. Who was the rockstar marketing executive who signed off on the mediocre misguided musings of their direct report(s)? It’s unfortunate, but leadership is fading and the consequence is your reputation and your job. Leaders need to step up and tell the truth instead of going behind closed doors with their colleagues to say “Johnny isn’t cutting the mustard” or “Becky is good but not great.” Where are the fruitful honest conversations that are needed to produce high-performance? I’ve seen many managers that are afraid to have direct conversations in the workplace, that then want to fire an employee without warning or documented conversations. If you wear a passive aggressive ‘banner’ you should not be a manager.

I’m very passionate about great leadership as you can tell but don’t let management’s incompetence diminish the responsibility you have for YOUR career. You have a duty to be proactive and take control of your career. Don’t take what your manager has to say for face-value. Have those conversations and really dig deep on your work performance. We all have areas of improvement and those need to be discussed on a regular basis along with the kudos. Here are some recommendations on how to be proactive with the status of your work performance.

One-to-One Meetings – If your manager is not facilitating bi-weekly or monthly conversations with you, take it upon yourself to set those up. Be proactive when it comes to your career. Receive and give feedback on a regular basis.
Thought out goals/objectives – Make sure you have carefully thought out goals and objectives. Consider your company and team objectives to come up with individual goals that are achievable and challenge you to do something amazing.
Professional mentorship – Reach out for mentorship within the company and another point of view. Sometimes higher level individuals within the company who don’t manage you directly can give feedback or suggestions that are more direct especially if your manager is not forthcoming enough.

Sometimes when I think about passive aggressive managers in Corporate America, a tune by The Undisputed Truth, “Smiling Faces” comes to mind:

“Beware. Beware of the handshake that hides the snake,
I’m tellin’ you beware of the pat on the back it just might hold you back.
Jealousy, (Jealousy) misery, (misery) envy.
I tell you can’t see behind

Smiling faces, Smiling Faces, Sometimes they don’t tell the truth.
Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies and I got proof.
Your enemy won’t do you no harm, ’cause you’ll know where he’s comin’ from;
don’t let the handshake and the smile fool ya.
Take my advice I’m only tryin’ to school ya.”

https://youtu.be/8CJZcVi5BA4

Style Resume Feature: Lakika “Shay” Scott

March 9, 2017

I look forward to days like this where I can highlight and share such wonderful and inspiring people. Joining us in the salon today is Lakika “Shay” Scott, a Compliance Executive and a Designer. As a business professional and creative, she is determined to incorporate her skill set and professional experiences into future business endeavors. In 2014, Lakika created her own brand of socks and accessories called, Shoobangz. During which she’s also managed to maintain leadership positions in the corporate world. Lakika has showcased her designs in various fashion shows and participated as a vendor in small business showcases. Most notably, Lakika was able to participate as a volunteer in Nashville Fashion Week. This experience showed her two things; forecasting fashion is a must and the fashion business is extremely competitive and as tough as it comes! Lakika considers herself to be a student of fashion in the sense that she’s committed the past few years, gaining experience in almost every aspect of the fashion industry. As an artist/creative/designer, her personal style reflects her unique personality, but more importantly embodies individualism. Let’s learn a little more about this corporate and style leader.

Experience:

What is your current occupation and how long have you been in your career?

I am a Contractor Compliance Specialist for the State of Tennessee’s Healthcare and Finance Administration. I have been in this role for almost three years. I am a part of a very small team that oversees the Service Center Contract for TennCare. I serve more specifically as a Liaison between business units, because of my ability to build and endure business relationships. I also ensure the Contractor remains compliant per the contractual agreement on behalf of the State of Tennessee. All the while, I am a designer (Shoobangz) and a fashion student, as I am currently enrolled as a student at the Sewing Training Academy (Nashville, TN) to learn more apparel design techniques.

Education:

Where did your style originate and who or what are some of your influences?

My very unique, but chic style originates from my love of the arts. I was an artist long before I was interested in fashion. As an artist, I love the use of color which can be used to express moods and movement. So, years ago when my friend finally convinced me to wear heels, I was immediately drawn to brands like Dollhouse (shoes) and Betsy Johnson style apparel, because of their vibrant colors and funky style. I’ve since evolved and become inspired by the sophisticated style of artist/actress, Janelle Monae.

References:

Who are some of your favorite designers? What stores do you prefer to shop?

My favorite apparel designer is Christian Siriano, known for his intricately designed red carpet dresses. His attention to detail and flare is impeccable and inspiring. I am inspired by shoe designers, Manolo Blahnik and newcomer Christopher Coy. This may come as a surprise, but I am an avid thrift store shopper. Small vintage boutiques are my newest interest and my loyalty currently belongs to Trendy Pieces Boutique downtown Murfreesboro.

Career, Beauty and Style:

Do you think personal style is important as it relates to your work? If so, how?

Personal style is an extremely important aspect of our lives, and work is no exception. We spend a significant time at work and although the enforcement of dress code policies may restrict some aspects of style, it doesn’t take away the ability to have style. There are currently too many cutting edge options in professional attire for one not to take advantage and find their style niche in the workplace.

How would you personally define the word beauty?

My definition of beauty is freedom of expression. Outer beauty is extremely subjective, but a confident woman, wearing whatever she wants, with a soul that radiates through her pores is undeniably beautiful. Whether she is wearing a bathrobe or a snow suit, she will shine and her outer garments become accessories.

If you had a dream career/occupation what would it be?

My dream career would be in Fashion Forecasting. I am fascinated with the unpredictability of fashion trends and I would love to be a part of the industry that determines and projects the next trend or style.

What’s the best advice you could give someone seeking a new career?

When seeking a new career, I would advise seeking positions with advancement and growth opportunities. We are all good at certain things, but we were all once beginners. We tend to seek positions that are comfortable and similar to our previous experiences. However, sometimes it is that unlikely role or position that grows and develops us. Years ago, I would’ve never imagined overseeing a project/contract. I had to be open to new things and understand the job market is continuously changing, so you must adapt and grow with it.

Quote that keeps you motivated:

My favorite quote:

“Bloom where you are planted”

Where to find Lakika:

Shoobangz

Instagram/Shoobangz

Facebook/Shoobangz

Friday Feature: Waiting to ‘Excel’

February 3, 2017

We are absolutely thrilled to have a special guest in The Career Salon today! Dr. Kisha is here to share awesome insight on how the use of Microsoft Excel can improve your career. Dr. Kisha is obsessed with helping individuals grow their small business and professional careers. Her mission at She Knows Tech.io is to equip and empower individuals, especially women, with the skills to excel in business through software and technology training. She Knows Tech.io is a training company focusing on Excel data analysis, predictive analytics courses using IBM SPSS Modeler, mobile and website building courses, reviews and tutorials (Wix.com website builder). Dr. Kisha is an expert in business intelligence and analytics. She’s also an app developer (Homework Suite), 6 Sigma Black Belt (Caterpillar, Inc), and professor of information systems with 19 peer reviewed quality research publications.

Resume Not Getting Noticed Enough? You’re Probably Missing This

by Dr. Kisha

MS Excel might just be one of the most important software programs that is used in every industry today. This may be why so many employers are looking for employees who are highly skilled in using Excel. You can give your job prospects a boost by becoming an Excel Power User.

Whether you are looking for a brand-new job, or you want to work your way up the ladder- becoming proficient in MS Excel can boost your job prospects. From an employer’s viewpoint, especially in business, Excel is an essential computing tool and they want employees who are advanced in this tool.

>> Take this fun Excel Quiz to see where your Excel skills rank <<

You Can Do Just About Anything in Microsoft Excel

Excel has virtually no limits. Just consider some of the tasks it can do for you:

Excel can create an editorial calendar, with a full list of topics and dates.
When planning on office outing, you can use an Excel document to track the costs and the RSVP list automatically.
You can use an Excel to determine exactly how much you should charge for your product.
An excel document can summarize revenue by product which can find areas of strength and weakness, where stronger relationships can be built with customers.
Excel is perfect for creating budgets, including expenses and more.
Customer discounts can be calculated based on the volume of purchases, monthly, and by product. Watch how here.

Resume Building

At the top of your resume, you want to highlight skillsets that will catch a recruiter’s eye. So instead of listing “Microsoft Office” You’d want to instead list specific functions such as “Microsoft Excel Pivot Tables” and “Microsoft Excel Solver”. Doing so will set you apart from other candidates and recruiters quickly recognize you know what you are talking about!

Excel is a diverse program, and more businesses are turning to use it as a primary tool for a variety of applications and functions. It’s vital for every professional to learn how to use Excel, and strong Excel skills can lead to greater job opportunities and promotions.

>> So start by Watching these 4 quick Excel tutorials and see how easy it is to learn Excel <<

To learn more, contact Dr. Kisha here.

So nasty and so rude!

December 21, 2016

I hope my readers don’t mind if I pause on the jobs and beauty talks, to discuss a topic that’s so prevalent in Corporate America today…BULLIES! Most people have experienced a bully a time or two in school, but unfortunately it happens in offices everyday. What is a bully, exactly? In most cases, a bully is someone that uses their power or appearance of power to intimidate or coerce someone to do what they want. This behavior is completely unacceptable! One of my biggest pet peeves is watching an insecure and unprofessional person bully a subordinate or peer. Honestly, for me that would be a reason I would strongly consider making some changes. People go to work to pursue their passions and grow as a professional, not to relive high school hallway disrespect.

When you are dealing with a bully in the workplace there must definitely be a strategy to work through the relationship. I don’t recommend having an altercation at work but I know people have limits, so here are a few tips on how to handle an office bully effectively:

Try to speak with the person in a calm, constructive manner (in-person if possible)
Let someone (Supervisor, HR) know, for possible mediation
Document occurrences
Create boundaries of interaction with the person (See 5 & 6 if your leader is the bully)
File a formal complaint
Find another great opportunity!

Have you encountered an office bully in your career? How did you handle the situation? Discuss in the comments.

Coats, Color, and Character

December 1, 2016

Our resident style contributor, R. Rene is visiting the salon and spicing up your Friday Eve with her take on Coats, Color, and Character in the workplace!

Topshop

Greetings Career Enthusiasts!

Fall/Winter Season has arrived and it’s time to embrace such in style both during and after work hours. Many may differ due to the uncertainty and unpredictable nature of the fall weather but this by far is one of my favorite seasons! Like many careers, the fall season forces you to adopt new habits, wear more layers and embrace change daily. So let’s talk style!

You are a walking brand, that’s my motto and my daily mental reminder for everything I do. Because of such, what I wear becomes very important to me and it’s no different when the season changes. People tend to judge the book of style by its cover rather they are true to admit it or not and as a result I would like to ensure that if they must judge they do so well when our style character is in question. To embrace this season change and style critics around the office, airport and in the field, I have to challenge the likes of all of you career enthusiasts and future ladder climbers to begin to debunk a few work fashion myths!

“Coats/Jackets are boring”—- says no wo/man ever! Its fall and all-weather coats are totally in. A nice jacket can set the stage for the clean, crisp look that comes along with being VICE PRESIDENT or CEO. The Midwest and Northeast regions can contest that coats can make or break an outfit when the wind blows. Grab yourself a good lined Trench ladies and gents, thinly lined to maintain a sleek look on the go. For those of you in the sunshine states of the world you really don’t get to embrace the coat season like others but this does NOT me you are exempt from owing a good coat or jacket. I would ask that you even evaluate the jackets and blazers you wear into meetings with clients and around the office. If you are going to wear it, make it count and wear it well!!

Alexander Wang

“Color goes out with summer”: No! Color tells a story of character, boldness and confidence like no other, so with the rapid color changes of the leaves around you change the color in that wardrobe. While the classic white shirt never gets old and the blues, blacks and greys will remain staple pieces. There is absolutely nothing wrong with adding a pop of color to that dress or suit with a sprinkle of fall goodness like Wines and Reds, Autumn Orange, Tans and dark greens it will make for much conversation and tell a story all by itself about your career style!

What does your current coat say about you? Any color? —– Scared to try it!? Be a trendsetter, black is your canvas and color makes the picture! GO FOR IT! Find character in both your coat and your colors this fall as you prepare to dive into new areas of your career! Character is key!

A few of my favorite places to get great coats, jackets and plenty of color for both men and women at any price level. Happy Shopping and be sure to look for those FALL SPECIALS!

You will thank me later!

www.asos.com

www.bluefly.com

www.bananarepublic.com

www.hm.com

R. Rene,

www.lifebrandfactory.com