Perhaps like me you struggle to keep up with the mass quantities of information that flows your way each day. Here, I’ve compiled many of the job search, career management, employment market, recruiting and networking articles I’ve posted throughout the year.
The header before the link gives a general idea of the content and the blurb below the link shows an excerpt from the article itself. Please do share feedback by commenting directly on the source site or via private message back to me.
Why job search basics matter most
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/12/13/forget-fancy-focus-on-the-fundamentals-in-your-job-search/
The most obvious sign of a person who naively follows rudimentary job search advice is that their resume, LinkedIn profile, business bio or verbal introduction looks, reads and sounds like everyone else’s.
Problems with interviews and interviewers
http://community.ere.net/blogs/kellyblokdijk/2011/10/using-flawed-criteria-to-select-candidates/
Savvy job seekers are skilled at navigating interview questions and formulating appropriate replies to tell the interviewer what they think they want to hear.
Performing the job before you get the job
http://community.ere.net/blogs/kellyblokdijk/2011/09/is-it-is-fair-to-ask-candidates-to-work-for-work/
In the past, I’ve been asked to provide work samples and actually found that preferable to enduring round after round of “tell me about a time when…” behavioral questions.
Recognizing the difference between good and bad job search advice
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/09/23/job-seekers-should-never-pay-for-resume-writing-or-job-search-coaching/
Most, if not all, providers of career services assistance offer free initial consultations. There is no reason not to take advantage of those being generous with their time and who actually have the specialized knowledge to help those who need it most.
Unconventional top talent might rock your socks off
http://community.ere.net/blogs/kellyblokdijk/2011/09/rock-out-your-talent-strategy-with-a-yellow-guitar/
I can’t help myself, it just happens – whether eating a cheeseburger, folding laundry or watching embarrassing reality shows, I somehow find a way to yank a talent management or talent acquisition issue out of practically everything.
More of the best and worst job search advice
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/09/03/don%e2%80%99t-succumb-to-the-job-search-cluster-funk/
In honor of Labor Day, I encourage job seekers to avoid treating their professional future like a disposable kitchen sponge. Take ownership of your progress. Be discerning in vetting advice or advisors and don’t succumb to the cluster funk.
Don’t be a LinkedIn loser
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/07/06/10-most-popular-pesky-linkedin-pet-peeves/
While almost everyone is aware of the need to create a positive first impression, here are a few of the most common issues observed where that may not be happening.
Not as simple as it could be to apply for a job
http://community.ere.net/blogs/kellyblokdijk/2011/05/how-many-more-hoops-before-i-can-apply-now/
Are the companies that do this really hiring the best talent or are they merely finding those with enough time and patience to hop through hoop after hoop?
Too much information for your resume
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/04/30/respect-the-urge-and-resist-the-cheesecake/
While composing their customized messages, job seekers should consider their audience and just point out the critical pieces and ingredients related to their target position
Employee referrals
http://www.ere.net/2011/04/20/tell-em-to-apply-online/
With limited resources and an interest in finding the right cultural and skill fit, employers often rely on employee referral programs to incentivize current workers to help them acquire new talent.
Poor treatment of job candidates
http://www.ere.net/2011/04/12/talent-acquisition-steps-that-enrage-not-engage-top-talent/
Perhaps these employers feel that they have nothing to lose with their lack of compassion and disregard for those expressing interest in joining their firms.
Dealing with job search rejection
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/04/05/impersonal-hiring-practices-means-not-taking-rejection-personally/
Being that unemployment has reached and remained at historically high levels, it is possible that employers interpret that to mean there is no reason to show compassion and courtesy to those expressing interest in joining their companies.
Professional networking and industry connections
http://community.ere.net/blogs/kellyblokdijk/2011/02/professional-courtesy-vs-swatting-mosquitoes/
My underlying feeling was that if a couple minutes of my time might help someone accomplish something that otherwise may not have occurred, why not lend a hand? And, I’ve been around long enough to have experienced several random outcomes from chance encounters to keep an open mind about helping out in this way.
Making a great first impression
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/02/15/pay-attention-to-the-most-important-figure-in-your-job-search-strategy/
Regarding first impressions, whether being found in person, online or on paper, you must have your act together. That means your physical and tangible appearance as well as any virtual representations of you must all reflect the image you wish to portray.
Now hiring “A” players only please
http://talenttalks.wordpress.com/2011/01/25/five-hints-to-tell-if-you-are-considered-a-level-talent%e2%80%a6/
Top talent is always in demand regardless of state of the job market. Make sure you understand what that means to those who decide who they plan to call when the time comes.
Article by Kelly Blokdijk ~ As a Talent Optimization Coach & Consultant with TalentTalks, Kelly thrives on “Creating a Voice for Talent” by partnering with business professionals and job seekers to build competitive career marketing strategies, customized communication materials and compelling personal branding campaigns to create a lasting positive impression. TalentTalks consults with the business community on innovative, leading-edge human resource and organization development initiatives to enhance talent management, talent acquisition, corporate communications and employee engagement programs. TalentTalks routinely posts employment market and job search related content on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn – fans and followers welcome!
