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3 Ways to Stand Out Against Competition

Shauna Carpenter
May 29, 2012
Posted in: Blog

I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that there’s a lot of competition for jobs out there. But what are employers looking for? Is it your education? Which degree you have? Or is it your work experience that matters most?

Well, it depends on the job you’re applying for and which company you want to work for, but there are three things you can do to ensure you’re putting your best foot forward in standing out against the competition, regardless of the degree you have.

1. Build your portfolio – Even if you’re a writer and not a photographer or web designer, you can still have an online portfolio of the blogs you’ve written, or the email blasts you’ve composed. Anything that says – “See! I told you I could do this!” Many times people will show up to an interview with only their resume, if that. If you bring proof you have the skills you bulleted on your resume, then you’re one step ahead of the competition.
2. Bring something new to the table – If you can show up to an interview with a skill they may have never used, or even heard of, who do you think they’ll want to hire? If you can explain why this skill or program will help their company, and no other candidate even mentioned it, then you’re REALLY standing out in the crowd! And as a side note, in order to get to this point, you’ll need to use every class, every book, and take any opportunity that comes along that may further your career. If it looks good on your resume, or adds one more skill to your list, then go for it!
3. Letters of recommendation – Anyone can say they’re good at this or that, but can you prove it? What better way to prove it then a recommendation either in letter form, or on LinkedIn. If someone worked with you, and can vouch for your skills, it means so much more than you bragging on yourself about how great you THINK you are. This brings me to my final thought.

Be humble. No one likes someone who talks about themselves the whole time like they’re wonderful. Realize that no matter how good you think you are, you will still have to prove yourself on the job. That is if you even get the job. And I’m sure no one conducting an interview wants a team member who just keeps saying how wonderful they are- they’ll want to see it for themselves. Just remember, pride comes before a fall, so be humble, and realize you still may have a thing or two to learn yourself.

Even Leonardo da Vinci knew the power of being humble and willing to prove yourself in his translated ‘resume’ which concludes with: And if any of the above-named things seem to anyone to be impossible or not feasible, I am most ready to make the experiment in your park, or in whatever place may please your Excellency — to whom I comment myself with the utmost humility, etc.”

For help with any of the above points Contact Us for a consultation. www.bravecareers.com

The Art of Negotiation

Shauna Carpenter
May 11, 2012
Posted in: Blog

It’s no surprise women make less in the U.S. than men. But could it be a lack of good negotiating skills that’s to blame? I recently read a report that said women earn only 80 percent of what their male colleagues take home a year after they get their diplomas, and 10 years later the number drops to 69 percent. Men were also much more likely to be in positions of power and more involved in hiring, firing and supervising.

I also read in Pink, a women’s business magazine, that nearly half of 2,400 women surveyed didn’t even ask for a raise in the past 12 months. But 72 percent of those who asked got exactly what they wanted.

So for men and women alike, here are 3 tips to master the art of negotiation:

1. Do your research – Do you even know what people in your state with your exact position make? Well then how do you know what to ask for? It’s as simple as searching online on sites such as salary.com to find out. That way, when it comes time for an interview or a raise, you’ll be prepared.
2. Back up your research – Besides having the stats in hand, you should also be prepared to explain what your contribution has been to the organization, and why you are a valuable asset who should be rewarded. Sometimes it’s even necessary to let your employer in on the fact that perhaps you are the only breadwinner in your family, or are on a single-person income. Many times people assume your husband or significant other are the main breadwinner, or even that you have two incomes coming in, which may not be the case. Things like this could influence your boss’ decision.
3. Ask and you shall receive – Like the studies show, women don’t have because they don’t ask. Maybe they believe if they ask it will make them appear greedy, or they’re just too shy to go there. Or maybe they can talk about anything else in the world but money. Don’t let this be you – ask for what you want. And back up the reasons why you deserve it. The worst that can happen is they say no, but they will remember that you’re a go-getter who knows their worth and value. Just remember, you have not because you ask not.

Contact us today for more tips to land your dream job at the dream salary you deserve!

5 Reasons Your Co-Workers Don’t Like You

Shauna Carpenter
May 7, 2012
Posted in: Blog

I recently read an article in The Wall Street Journal about the behaviors that both annoy your co-workers, and can actually build walls between you and them. Considering you spend more time with your co-workers than your family, you’ll need to get along with them as best you can. Of course we all know those co-workers who are simply impossible to get along with, but the least you can do is your part to be sure you’re not the one sabotaging the work relationship. By the way, this applies to executives and management as well.

So here are the 5 Reasons Your Co-Workers Don’t Like You:

1. You’re a suck up – Being too much of a suck up usually means at the expense of your co-workers. You are quick to throw them under the bus to make yourself look good, rather than going to them first to tell them of a mistake you’ve noticed. This isn’t a team-minded person, this is a me-minded person, and no one likes working with someone like that. Be a team player.
2. You’re a negative Nancy – No offense if your name is Nancy, but you catch my drift. No one wants to talk to someone who only has negative things to say. I call these people the crisis-of- the-day people. Every time you say something, even if it’s about what a beautiful day it is, they have a counter-attack of negativity to throw your way. These people will never be happy, and never enjoy anything in life, so they lose friends quickly. Also, gossip falls into this category, and we all know that if someone is always gossiping, chances are they’re talking about you behind your back too.
3. You’re sloppy – I read an article that said 83% of HR Managers judge you by the state of your desk. Being messy has a significant reflection of your image. Being inconsiderate of the workspaces around you is a big pet peeve for many co-workers according to expert research. Leaving trash or food around communal areas in the workplace isn’t just rude, but can be downright disgusting. If you treat every area as if it’s an area a client could walk by, then maybe you’ll think twice about leaving your mess lying around. Just be respectful and mindful of the others around you and you’ll go far.
4. You’re loud – This one is especially annoying in a cubical situation. People around you shouldn’t have to put their earphones in just so they can concentrate on their work because you’re being so darn loud. This one requires a little self-reflection. Do you tap your fingers or pencil? Do you smack your gum? Do you hum, whistle or sing? Do you talk to your significant other on your cell phone? THEN STOP NOW! All of these are examples of behaviors to avoid in a workplace, but especially in a cubicle; hello, we can all hear you!
5. You’re a sore thumb – Standing out can be good in getting hired, if it’s for all the right reasons, but standing out in the workplace because you’re downright unprofessional is a whole other story. Cussing profusely, talking about inappropriate or sexual things, or being brash and abrasive are all examples of setting yourself up for failure to fit in. Just because people don’t call you on it, doesn’t mean they’re ok with it, they just may not like confrontation. But you can rest assured that someone will say something to your supervisor – it’s only a matter of time.

In conclusion, if you treat others the way you want to be treated, and are mindful of your behavior, you won’t commit these workplace misdemeanors. And you may end up being a valuable team member in the process. Contact us for more advice and a consultation to help you be the best co-worker you can be, or to land your next dream career!

Gone in 6 seconds: What Recruiters Are Looking For

Shauna Carpenter
April 16, 2012
Posted in: Blog

In an article I read recently on business insider online, they reported on eye tracking research done by the Ladders. It concluded that the recruiters spent an average of 6 seconds on a resume to see if a candidate is right for a company. Our recruiters know this already, but this is further proof of what we’ve been saying all along – that your resume needs to be properly created and positioned to ensure employers are not only getting your resume, but are actually reading it all the way through.

Much like a billboard, you have mere seconds to ‘hook and hold’ someone’s attention. If your resume isn’t doing that, then it’s going in the trash. They simply don’t have time to look through hundreds of boring resumes start to finish. You need something that will grab them, but in a good way.

Here are 4 key points to remember when building an attention-grabbing resume:

1. Speak to their needs – Don’t ramble on and on about your past accomplishments, but rather speak to what their current company needs are, and how you can meet them. Be specific, direct and tactful. Remember, you are trying to persuade, not spout off a grocery list of duties you performed. I myself have made this mistake, and trust me, it’s unimpressive. Remember, everyone is always thinking – “What’s in it for me?”
2. Draw their eyes – Once you’ve got their attention, there are still major sections you should direct the recruiter’s eyes to. The big answer to the questions in their heads like: your name, current title and company, current position start and end dates, previous title and company, previous position start and end dates, and education.
3. Ditto #2 but for LinkedIn® – Your page should be like an online resume, filled with all the things recruiters and hiring managers are looking for. And here is a great place for recommendations. But keep in mind you still have only seconds before they move on to the next candidate.
4. Don’t forget the skills – LinkedIn® added and advertised the new ‘add skills’ section for good reason – it makes it easier to find you based on your specific skill set. But only add ones you’re willing to show them you can actually perform. Just because you took two years of Spanish in high school doesn’t mean you’re fluent, and one cheesy website you created with slide shows of your cat, does not a web designer make. But absolutely tell them if you have any skill that would fulfill their company’s needs.

In conclusion, remember to be real and genuine. You’re not selling vacuum cleaners; you’re selling yourself. Contact us today and we’ll show you how to re-vamp your resume to one that turns into an interview, not a 3 pointer into the waste basket. www.bravecareers.com

5 Interview Tips to Know Now

Shauna Carpenter
March 27, 2012
Posted in: Blog

Making that critical first impression a good one isn’t always easy, but we’re here to help. Here are a few tips to help you once you’ve landed a job and finally got your foot in the door of the company you REALLY want to work for. And even if you’re still looking and at a job you just hate, these will be little tidbits to put in your back pocket so you when your time comes, you’ll be ready.

1. Don’t be late – while this one seems like common sense, sometimes you need a refresher course. Don’t forget to allow enough time for traffic, a flat tire, or finding a parking place. This is especially important if your interview is in a downtown area you’re not familiar with and you have to use a parking meter or deck, or have never been to the location. And let’s not forget all the road construction, detours and rush hour you could encounter. Also, don’t forget to bring a copy of your resume. Click here for Tips on Polishing your Resume
2. Don’t bath in cologne or perfume – if the person interviewing you can smell you before they see you, that’s not a good thing. The same goes in reverse. You should have great hygiene of course, but don’t overdo it with the sprays because you’re nervous. And DON’T spray in the car, that’s a confined space where the smell just lingers and never escapes. Spray just a couple of sprays as a finishing touch before heading out the door, and then let it go. The same goes for ladies and wearing too much makeup; no one wants a rodeo clown working for them; natural but pretty is always best.
3. Dress for the job above the one you want – Just like I mentioned in my Resume vs. Image post, you need to dress for the job just above the one you’re applying for. And why not pull out all the stops and just wear a full on suit? It’s still nice to see in interviews no matter what position you’re applying for, and hiring managers LOVE to see you all dressed up. It’s easier to imagine you in a certain position if you’re dressed the part. And men and women hiring managers both need this visual stimulation to ensure you’re going to give off the right impression to current and future clients you may interact with.
4. Be confident – It’s natural to be nervous, and even expected, but look at that HR rep right in the eyes and shake their hand firmly as soon as you meet them. Period. Don’t give the fishy handshake and don’t look down at the ground. Even if you have to pretend to be someone else, or act confident, that’s fine, just so long as you come across as actually being confident. If you don’t know the answer to a question, or need time to think, it’s ok to say “Hmmm let me think about that one for a minute…”
5. Be friendly – Smile a lot, be nice and friendly, and let them see the side of you that even if you’re naturally more introverted, you would need to show to potential clients or other employees. Your image, both in person and online, really matter to potential employers. Here are some pointers to get you started on your online image. Remember, no one wants to hire a turtle in their shell. So break out of that box and be glad you’re there! If nothing else let the thought of getting your foot in the door, and having this opportunity be enough motivation to paint a smile on your face and put a spring in your step. It’s refreshing for the hiring manager as well, who likely has already interviewed five to 10 other candidates before you that day. And that alone should be motivation enough to kick it up a notch, and do an attitude check.

You know what else helps you be confident? Knowing about the company you’re trying to work for. Do your research ahead of time so you’ll have the answer to the question they always ask: “So what do you know about our company?”

We wish you the best of luck in getting the job you’ve always wanted, and always remember that Brave Careers is here to help. Check out our services at: www.bravecareers.com

Networking Tips

Shauna Carpenter
March 19, 2012
Posted in: Blog

Networking is vitally important for many different reasons, and can help you obtain several different outcomes. One reason you should fine tune your networking skills is to get the word out to as many people as possible that you’re actively looking for a new career. What better way to get a job really fast than to use your current connections to make new ones, and get introduced to potential employers who are hiring.

Another reason to garner new networking skills is to build relationships with others for cross marketing, promotional, and sales opportunities. No, I’m not talking about selling products or services to your friends, but rather forming relationships that benefit both parties so you can scratch each other’s backs so to speak. Trading out services is a great way to help each other succeed and even getting word-of-mouth referrals from friends in different industries can help you get ahead in your field.

Here are some networking tips to keep in mind in order to NETWORK:

1. Never be unprepared – any event, seminar, or meeting you attend should be viewed as an opportunity to make more connections and possibly a sale further down the road. Always have your business cards handy, and look the part so you’re always making a good first impression wherever you go. You never know who you might run into, even if you’re at a place you may not think would be a normal business hang-out spot. Sometimes the grocery store can even be a place where you’ll run into the very people who can help you further your business, and reach your professional goals.
2. Everyone likes someone who is real – if you are honest, upfront and real with people everywhere you go you are far more likely to have people recommending your products and services. People remember nice people who helped them in some way. Whether it’s giving of your time, services, advice or a listening ear, people remember when you helped them out, and are much more likely to help you in the future if you are kind to them from the start.
3. Take time to volunteer – sometimes a freebie is worth it, even if it’s something small and happens just once. This is part of that ‘you scratch my back; I’ll scratch yours’ scenario.  People like knowing things and giving advice or phone numbers of companies that can help their friends and coworkers. If you are top of mind for them because you recently did something free for them, you can bet you will be the first one they think of when someone asks them if they know anyone who can meet a need or want.
4. Work hard at being the expert – in whatever chosen field or industry you’re in, make sure you’re seen as one of the experts at it. You want to be the go-to person for that service or product, so act like it. Don’t pretend to know what you’re talking about; this goes back to being real. And along this same line of thinking, see the next tip.
5. Overall continued growth is key – if you’re not getting better, you’re getting worse; because staying the same is still getting worse. Stagnation isn’t good for any business, any more than breaking even is. Stay up on industry trends, get educated, and read up on new and better ways to do your job. You don’t want to give a blank stare when a potential client asks you about a certain new trend in marketing for example, if you’re supposed to be a marketing guru. And this could be prevented if you’re always progressively educating yourself.
6. Referrals require follow through – if you do make some connections, don’t drop the ball. If someone refers a potential client to you, or asks you for a proposal or to give them a call, don’t delay in giving them what they want or you will lose the sale. People are busy and know that you are too, but you do want more business don’t you? Then you simply have to follow through on promises made in newly-formed relationships.
7. Keep in touch – Don’t just call someone when you want something, or they may not answer the phone anymore; sometimes you need to show you genuinely care about their business, their life, and even personal matters if they share them with you. If they tell you a family member passed away for example, send flowers or a kind greeting card to show you care. But always remember, your motivation behind these actions shouldn’t be to make money from being nice to them, it should come from a real place of concern and care.

Remember, networking is key to getting ahead in any industry. If you need more one-on-one help feel free to contact us here: http://www.bravecareers.com/contact-us/

Social Media Tips

Shauna Carpenter
March 5, 2012
Posted in: Blog

Your online reputation matters.  And here are some key tips to keep in mind while creating and updating your online profiles for the big three social media sites – Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Employers frequently comb through public profiles of candidates to see several things:

1. Would you represent their company or brand well both in and out off the office?
2. Do you look like a professional who can be trusted with their information and trade secrets?
3. Do you look like you’d pass a drug test?
4. Do you look like a ‘party person’ or alcoholic who would be late to work every day?
5. Do you look like someone who would either A. have a lot of drama in their life or B. cause a lot of drama around the office?

Here’s a breakdown of each social media site and what you should remember:

Facebook

Ah, this one gets more people fired or prevents them from ever being hired in the first place than any other.  Why you ask?  Because it’s set up to be more personal and have more pictures and personality than any other I’ll be touching on today. You should set up your profile pages as if the CEO of the company you’re working for, or hoping to work for, is looking. Because chances are either they are, or the HR or the hiring manager is, so you should post accordingly. It’s also a good idea never to allow just anyone to post to your wall, or else you may get some things on there that while not you, can still make you guilty by association if viewed by a boss or potential employer. And one more thing – Is that person really your friend? Do you trust them? What will you benefit from adding them? It’s ok to be a Facebook snob if it means protecting your online reputation.

LinkedIn

Treat this one like your online business card and use it strictly for business.  Feel free to post your entire resume if you want, even if you’re happy at your current job because it’s not seen by most employers to be a deal breaker, and it’s great for forming and maintaining business connections. Like with your resume, keep everything more accomplishment focused if you can, and less about your general job duties.

Twitter

This one should be used mainly for important updates or headlines. No one cares what you ate for lunch, or how pretty the day is wherever you are. These blurbs should be read in 4 seconds max and give the reader a desire to click your link for more information, especially if you desire interaction. These aren’t supposed to just be empty phrases sent out to the social media universe, but rather tips, tricks, information or tidbits for your audience. And remember, they should make them want to click!

Why subscribe to our emails?

Shauna Carpenter
February 29, 2012
Posted in: Blog

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE getting tips and emails on the exact things I need more information on.  Whether that means fitness and nutrition tips or automatic job searches sent directly to my inbox each day or once a week.  And if you’re looking for a job, or would like a career change, you need timely and relevant information that gives you exactly what you’re looking for.  And that’s what our emails are designed to do.

Each Brave Careers ’10 days to a job offer’ email will give you different tips on how to fine tune your resume, network like a pro, and get the job you really want.  Yes, your resume is important and is still the first line of contact between you and your future boss, but what about networking and getting your name out there?  And are you sure what you have on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter is what you really want employers to see?  What are they looking for anyway?

If you want the answer to these questions and more, or just need a refresher course on updating your resume, click on our homepage and sign up for our emails.  You can also click on our services area to have one of our experts give your resume a tune-up.

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Your Resume – What NOT to do

Shauna Carpenter
February 24, 2012
Posted in: Blog

Would you use a QR code as your resume?  What if the potential employer is looking at your resume on their smart phone?  They can’t very well scan the QR code then can they? Nope, sure can’t. And what else are you doing that you shouldn’t?

Well, here’s a list of what NOT to do on your resume:

• NEVER LIE. They will find out, they always do, so be smart.
• Don’t go over one page. Anything after the first page will likely be ignored. We personally know hiring managers who throw away anything after the first page. They simply don’t have time to read your three page resume, no matter how wonderful it is.
• Do not have spelling errors. Proofread for typos, spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Don’t rely on spell-check. Proofread it forwards then backwards (your brain won’t auto correct mistakes when you read it backwards). Have several people you trust proofread it, too. Nothing says incompetent or ‘doesn’t pay attention to details’ like a bunch of spelling errors.
• Don’t include an objective, summary or references. These sections are a waste of space and unnecessary in today’s business world. Your objective is to land the job you’re applying for, and the hiring manager knows you’ll provide references when asked.
• If you do use a QR code make sure it adds value. It’s not really necessary if you have your LinkedIn link on your resume, but if you just really want to show you can create a code, then make sure it’s clear, big enough, and actually goes to the correct location. Seems common sense, but you’d be surprised.

Need more advice or resume help?  How about networking or interview skills?  We can help with that too.

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Why you need a recruiter

Shauna Carpenter
February 17, 2012
Posted in: Blog

You wouldn’t perform a serious medical procedure on yourself would you?  No, you would let a team of doctors do that.  And you wouldn’t represent yourself in court for a serious legal matter would you?  No, you would hire an attorney for that. Then why are you trying to be your own recruiter when you have no experience in that field?

Finding the perfect career path for you, one that will make you truly happy and fulfilled, isn’t something you do on a whim or by simply posting your resume on a website with millions of other candidates.  Besides, how do know your resume will stand out among all the other people who may be more qualified and experienced than you are? Hiring a recruiter is crucial if you truly want to find the right career path where both you and the employer will be glad you got the job.

Everyone has likely experienced working for a company that didn’t match their ultimate goals, ethics, or long term plans, or where they just didn’t feel like they fit in.  That’s probably because they took the first job that came along because they had bills to pay.  But it is within your power to stop this vicious cycle and actually work for a company where you form a mutually beneficial relationship.  A career where you grow as a person, are challenged to improve your skills, and learn more about your career field every day, by just being there and giving it your all.  And wouldn’t it be great to meet an employer who actually valued your hard work and gave you the attention, appreciation, and feedback you needed?

Then you really need a recruiter.

Recruiters are skilled in the facets of connecting the right people to the right companies, where both people benefit from the relationship; where the employer knows they found a good fit for their company, and you as an employee finally get to make money doing what you love. Recruiters also have many connections and incredible networking skills, to keep an ear to the ground to know when something opens up that is perfect for you.  They actually have everyone’s best interest in mind, because if they don’t match the right companies to the right candidates, they won’t have a job themselves for very long. And our recruiters’ services are at no cost to you.

Enter Brave Careers, where we actually care. Our recruiters want what’s best for you, and the companies actively searching for you. Don’t allow your resume to be lost in a sea of other applicants, and don’t trust your image to just anyone.  Try Brave Careers. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

Here’s what others have said about us:

“Brave Careers was the impetus for me finding professional health. In the midst of a career transition, I was lost and going nowhere. Brave Careers provided me the tools necessary to assess where I wanted to go and set attainable goals to get to me there. From self-assessment to goal setting, from resume building to networking, Brave Careers served as my professional GPS.” — Doug Kraft, Assistant Buyer, Ollie’s Bargain Outlets 

“Brave Careers did a fantastic job helping me produce a top-notch resume. Their experience and expertise is invaluable. I highly recommend Brave Careers for anyone looking for a job or wanting to move up to the next level. Thanks Brave Careers!” — Mike McGowan, Vice President Sales – Sytel Limited