Guest Post: The Surprising Information Employers Use to Check You Out

Most job seekers know that employers conduct some kind of background check before they extend a job offer. After all, we’re used to listing past employers on job applications, and HR routinely calls the companies listed on our resumes to verify the work we’ve done. But you may not realize the extent to which many businesses will go in their quest to confirm that you’re the right hire. For instance, did you know they’ll often conduct credit checks and take a look at your social media profiles?

Constant Career Planning Part Two

In a previous post, I wrote about author Rita McGrath’s theory of the “transient advantage,” the idea that if you are constantly thinking about what’s next, you’ll be more successful. Everyone should have a reactive and proactive strategy for your next career move. McGrath provides a great quiz to determine if you are ready for … Continue reading Constant Career Planning Part Two

Guest Post: 4 Free Android Apps Every Job Seeker Needs

The prospect of job hunting is like a root canal. You know you need to do it and that you’ll be happy when it’s over, but the process itself is a lot of work. With a little organization and dedication, you can gain some job search momentum, schedule interviews and accept a new job offer before you know it.

When the Medium is the Message

Most of the time, the skills it takes to do the job are very different from the skills it takes to get the job. That’s why the job search is harrowing for so many professionals. “I’m an accountant, for goodness sake – and now I’m expected to sell myself.” For many candidates, the process feels foreign. But in almost every job search, there is one component that should be right in your wheelhouse; the skill you demonstrate there will not only make your search more successful, but demonstrate your skill to a future employer.

Not hired? Here’s an Action Plan

There’s a big difference between a single, quick interview and a long, intensive interview process. At the end of the long process, you may have met with several managers. You have information about the company from the interview team, and you may even have an idea about how many people you’re competing with and their backgrounds. You’ve invested a lot after several interviews: time, energy and perhaps even a sample of your work or a plan for what your first sixty days will look like. If you don’t get selected, it’s bound to be a letdown. It’s easy to start second guessing yourself.

Transition from Military to Civilian Career May Take Time

Bob Kennedy served for almost 30 years in the U.S. Navy. His career included several notable accomplishments, including making the transition from enlisted Chief Petty Officer to Surface Warfare Officer, becoming commanding officer of two overseas bases, and being promoted to captain before he retired in 2012. When he returned to the continental U.S. after … Continue reading Transition from Military to Civilian Career May Take Time