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Suggested by Ken Jondahl onto Job Seekers Advice with Street Smarts |
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"The good news is you got the job. Which, in this still-reeling economy, is quite an accomplishment."
"But the bad news is you're worried you might be settling for a position that isn't the right fit for you."
Read more:
http://salary.com/8-good-reasons-to-reject-a-job-offer/
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Articles which discuss "what and why" are passed over for those which include "how" to find a job and thrive in your career.
*How to find companies and jobs which fit "you". *How to prepare resumes which portray your strengths. *How to shine during the interview process. *How to handle the job offer. Delete the scoop?
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"No internship this summer? From building a blog to tutoring, there are lots of ways young people can show their worth."
"Did you want an internship this summer but didn't land one in time? Or perhaps you simply couldn't afford to work for free?"
"If you're an undergrad who is eager for professional experience, there are other ways to make yourself a better future job candidate besides a formal internship." By Amy Levin-Epstein
Read more: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505125_162-57452534/7-ways-undergrads-can-build-their-resumes// Delete the scoop?
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"Since most informational interviews are short -- often just 15 or 20 minutes -- it's smart to lead with what's most relevant to your job search."
"Freiberger suggests bringing a list of questions in descending order of importance."
"As for what to avoid asking, he says, "Aside from questions that are ridiculously inappropriate ... there is only one absolute taboo: Don't ask for a job." If all goes well, that will come later." by Anne Fisher
Read more: http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2013/04/04/what-to-ask-in-an-informational-interview/
streetsmartprof's insight:
As the article points out, use open ended questions around your interest and the person across the table. Which means you must come prepared with "open ended" questions to ask and have an idea what the person you are meeting with is interested in themselves.
There are 10 great open ended questions in the article to help you craft some around your dream job and the skills and capabilities you bring to the table. Plus make sure any questions you ask lean towards what the person on the other side of the table will be interested in discussing.
Next up is getting an informational interview. Here is a link which provides numerous ways to make a connection inside a company you would like to work for longer term. http://blog.doostang.com/2013/03/12/informational-interviews-the-best-job-search-tool-youve-never-used/ Delete the scoop?
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“When you ask any professional who has achieved some level of greatness how he or she got there, the journey is always unique, always varied, and rarely cookie-cutter."
"Most have, in some capacity, followed their passion, used their network, and had a good resume–but those things are usually part of a much bigger picture, and an unpredictable winding path."
"Instead of always following the exact by-the-book job seeking formulas, most were simply open to possibilities and got really good at whatever it is they were doing.” by Isa Adney, http://isaadney.com/
"Here are 10 unconventional (but very effective) things job seekers should try, in addition to traditional job search tactics." by Jacquelyn Smith-Forbes
streetsmartprof's insight:
I enjoy reading Jacquelyn Smith. Her advice is always grounded with input from other experts, as well as her own insight to what is working and what is not around job seeking and growing your career.
The article touches on numerous ideas you may want to consider if you are currently on the job hunt. Just make sure to read Parnell's input before jumping in with both feet:
Parnell says generally speaking, unconventional methods should be used sparingly, judiciously and only when necessary. “And when you do decide to use them, factor comprehensively by recognizing things like industry standards, personalities involved, and the general ilk of the position’s responsibilities, before strategizing.” Delete the scoop?
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"Job boards have become very ineffective, and it’s exceedingly difficult for job seekers to get noticed by blindly submitting resumes online."
"Studies show that candidates referred by friends are up to 54 times more likely to be hired than those applying via a job board."
"These candidates, who come with a trusted built-in recommendation, have a much better chance of actually landing the job."
streetsmartprof's insight:
My only recommendation is to consider a decent job search site to determine your key words first. My preference is www.indeed.com due to the capabilities of their search engine for job listings.
Learning the right key words is critical to locate the best jobs to match your skills, competence and character . This is part of the reason hiring managers rank referals near the top.
Very few people will ever refer a job seeker who does not match all 3 areas with the posting being considered. Delete the scoop?
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"In recent years, much has been written about the importance of career narratives for mid-career and senior professionals, particularly those making a career transition."
"But, we'd argue, they're even more important for younger professionals who don't yet have a multipage CV or a high-powered headhunter in their corner. What, then, makes for an effective narrative?"
"First, it should be easy to remember and retell..." - Heidi K. Gardner and Adam Zalisk
Read more: http://blogs.hbr.org/cs/2013/02/younger_workers_need_a_career_narrative.html Via Karen Dietz
streetsmartprof's insight:
I am repeating Karen Dietz's insights from below, says it all for me...
Hey -- we ALL need a career narrative! And it is a story that continually shifts and changes over time as we add experience, wisdom, and talent.
I really like this article because it explains exactly what a career narrative is, why we need one, and how to create it.
And there are great examples shared.
I particulary like the point that a career narrative -- or bio or 'About' page -- needs to meaningfully link your past successes with your near + long term goals, AND suggest the kinds of assignments that would help you achieve those goals.
If you have difficulty sharing the story of your career journey, if you need a better bio or 'About' page, then use these tips and examples to craft a better story! 
Karen Dietz's comment,
February 22, 3:14 PM
Glad you like it Dennis and you find it useful! Have a wonderful weekend :)
Sharilee Swaity's curator insight,
February 24, 10:38 AM
Article is focused on having a career story in the workforce, but the same concepts apply to someone who is doing freelancing, and trying to sell themselves to potential clients. Great information! 
Chris Morales's curator insight,
March 27, 11:36 AM
Some good tips on how to tell your career story more effectively #jobs Delete the scoop?
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"Use LinkedIn to network and reach out to your connections. Be proactive. Ask for help. Don’t be shy…. that’s why they’re there! And I know I’ve said this last point many times before but it bears repeating."
"After you apply online at a company, you need to stand out from the pack."
"Follow up with the recruiter or hiring manager via LinkedIn. Let them know..." - Stacy Donovan Zapar
Read on for ideas of how to follow up after applying on line: http://www.jobsite.com/blog/6-mistakes-jobseekers-make-on-linkedin/ Via Marylene Delbourg-Delphis
streetsmartprof's insight:
As Stacy points out, it feels right "not" to reach out after applying on line for a job. However, what feels right is what everybody else is doing.
If you really want to rise above the noise, change your behavior and be the one the hiring manager remembers.
Better yet, use LinkedIn and your network to reach someone within the hiring managers connections who will recommend you.
Chris Morales's curator insight,
February 28, 10:12 AM
Today's Scoop: Job Seeking Mistakes to Avoid 3recruiter Delete the scoop?
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"The purpose of your elevator pitch is to introduce yourself as a job candidate and/or business partner, explain what you have to offer, and initiate some next steps of the relationship."
"Think about how to convey your basic information (name, career field, etc.), your skills and experiences, and your career goals in an organized manner."
"You should be able to deliver a pitch that can be adapted to last anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Different situations may call for different versions... Consider what your core message should be and adjust the delivery to fit each occasion." - Andrew Crain
Examples of the good, the bad, and the ugly: http://careerthoughts.com/how-to-craft-a-magnetic-elevator-pitch
streetsmartprof's insight:
A quick easy read. An author who gets to the point and provides 3 living examples all in one page.
Andrew asks a great question at the end. Could you tell me your elevator pitch right now focused on your dream job? If not, you may want to read his article and be prepared. Delete the scoop?
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"The good news is you got the job. Which, in this still-reeling economy, is quite an accomplishment."
"But the bad news is you're worried you might be settling for a position that isn't the right fit for you."
Read more: http://salary.com/8-good-reasons-to-reject-a-job-offer/
streetsmartprof's insight:
Only you can decide if the job being offered is worth taking or not.
The article will provide a fresh perspective in case you end up in this position.
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"There are far too many job seekers blasting their resumes at any job posting that looks remotely close. This practice alienates recruiters, and your resume is sure to end up in a black hole."
"When you find a job you want to apply to, you must do more than just submit your resume and cross your fingers. Take the bull by the horns and find someone inside the company to share what they know or better yet, ask them if they will present you as a candidate for the job."
Read more:
streetsmartprof's insight:
Hannah covers 3 different scenarios around the job search when you do not know who to contact. Yet you understand to connect before submitting a resume is critical.
She also covers how to find the right people to connect with and which tools have been found to work the best. Definetly an article to bookmark for future use and share with any actively looking for their dream job. Delete the scoop?
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"The 2013 job market is a changing commodity. It is imperative that up-and-coming students and job seekers know how to truly play up their best assets -- one of which nearly always is to highlight their understanding of current digital life."
"Everyone is out there pretending they know what is going on in social media. They are all liars," says Eve Mayer...recognized by CNN as one of eight women on Twitter who will inspire you." https://twitter.com/LinkedInQueen
"Mayer is leading my social media-directed college course and emphasizing that social media isn't a small subsection of the job search: It could very well be the job search."
"Mayer highlights a fairly clear formula for how you can spark up a conversation with nearly anyone on LinkedIn:"
Read more: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jason-schmitt/social-media-is-the-hook-_b_2449829.html
streetsmartprof's insight:
I like the approach Eva recommends on how to locate someone at a company you have identified to be on your hit list in LinkeIn. The approach seems dead on. I only wish there was more to "how" to write the 3 sentence approach.
However, do not forget to keep reading. The best advice in my view is that from John Wilpers. http://degrees2dreams.com/about-degrees2dreams/
"Throw Out the Old Job Titles."
Yet this is only the beginning, John provides a very solid 5 step framework of how to brand yourself via social media for job seekers.
Prefer the video, it is scooped here:
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"Lots of articles describe how to create a more marketable LinkedIn profile, how to find the right groups to join, how to choose the best profile photo..."
"Since most people understand the value of taking those steps, let's go deeper."
"To really harness the power of LinkedIn, don't make these mistakes: - Jeff Haden"
1. You give only because you expect to receive. Via Kara Moore
streetsmartprof's insight:
Quick easy read to remind all of us about the little things which make lasting impressions, whether in virtual space or at work.
While reading consider how long it takes you to scope out the new person at work and decide in your mind, "Is this person worth knowing"? 
Kara Moore's curator insight,
February 11, 9:45 AM
I agree with a lot of these, esp. the generic invite messages! Delete the scoop?
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"A recent grad was telling me how he was struggling with interviews. He’d prepared but didn’t feel good about how he delivered his answers. In fact, he said he felt himself kind of rambling, and then unsure what to do about it."
"If you’ve been interviewing you know the story: you feel a bit like you’re sitting in front of a panel of judges who are going to vote you off the island if you say the wrong thing."
streetsmartprof's insight:
Read more about making your answers short and concise, having a "point", results achieved/lessons learned, clarifing questions before answering when unsure, and understanding it is OK to clarify after you respond.
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Here’s what 100 career pros want you to know about how to land work.
streetsmartprof's insight:
The article includes 7 concise tips to help you in your job search. Whether you are just starting out or have been on the job hunt for awhile. Delete the scoop?
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"Bad job interview? Be sure to learn from it and then move on without further ado, advises Heather McNab.
Dwelling on it will only hang over you and kill your confidence. "You certainly don't want to one bad experience to impact your future interviews too," says McNab.
"Here's how to learn from a poor performance -- and then let it go." by Amy Levin-Epstein
Read more: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505125_162-57577669/bad-job-interview-4-good-ways-to-learn-from-it/
streetsmartprof's insight:
Short quick read with plenty of ideas of how to review what just happened in a bad interview. Than using the pro's and con's of what was learned, get ready and move on.
The glass is always half full or half empty. The choice is yours to make, especially during tough times while looking for work.
Bad interviews are bound to happen to all of us and as Amy points out. It may just have been a signal the job was not the right one for you and your career. Delete the scoop?
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"The report shows students are not aggressively preparing for their post-college careers, one of several reasons that many struggle to find jobs upon graduation."
"In particular, although 85% of students surveyed consider internships important to their future career prospects, only a third have a presence on LinkedIn, a primary online mechanism for connecting to internship opportunities, and only 1 in 9 have a presence on WordPress, a major home for blogs."
Read more: http://millennialbranding.com/2012/11/student-career-development-study/
streetsmartprof's insight:
The study is based on only 200 respondents across the US.
The quantity is relatively small for an indepth study. Still, it may provide you with insight to how students are considering their career development while still in school. Delete the scoop?
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"The term “job interview” is searched ten times as often as the term “job search”. The keywords “job search prep” is barely a blip on the Google’s search term radar."
"What I often find in the job search process is that people want to chase the shiny objects they see. They want to jump to the last step in the process… the one that lands them a job offer: the job interview." " And they’re right, good job interviews do result in job offers."
"However, 86% of people surveyed said that the biggest mistake they made in an interview was not preparing well enough." by Lea McLeod
streetsmartprof's insight:
Lea provides 3 quick recaps of what bad things happen based on some real ife situations when people were not prepared for the interview.
Moving on to "why" the job search does not simply include interviewing. Plus offering up 15 steps to help you in advance to rise above the noise of all of those who forgot to come prepared.
As a job seeker, if you are looking for additional articles around preparing for an interview, go here: http://www.scoop.it/t/beyond-the-book?tag=interview-prepare
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"Interviews are often listed as one of the most stressful situations in which a person can find themselves..."
"Admittedly, a lot might be riding on the outcome of an interview: increased earnings, the chance to relocate, the opportunity for a better life, thus it's natural to feel a bit nervous."
"However, with the right preparation, there's no need to feel out of your depth." by Andy Thomas
Read more: http://www.recruitingblogs.com/profiles/blogs/preparing-for-your-job-interview
streetsmartprof's insight:
In the article Andy covers 3 main topics to consider before you arrive at the interview.
1 - Under research, be prepared to answer the question, "What do you know about the company?"
2 - In terms of advice, this is from those who know more about the company than you do. Use those who helped you land the interview to get the inside scoop as much as you can. Don't go in blind folded.
3 - The job description contains a host of information around the types of questions both the interviewer and you should be asking. Focus on what it is they are looking for and be prepared to tailor your past experience around what is important in the job they are looking to fill.
Hiring managers are looking to hire the top people for open positions. By arriving prepared to have a business conversation around the open position, you will rise above the noise and be remembered. Those who show up unprepared are quickly forgotten. Delete the scoop?
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"The other day, a few of my peers and I were discussing our social media presence and how it’s evolved over the years. One of them had mentioned that they often Google themselves to see what..."
"It’s hard enough to land a job as a job seeker in this economy, it’s even worse if your online presence ruins chances before you can even get to do a phone interview. Do yourself a favor and Google yourself to see what kind of information is at recruiter’s disposal and do some damage control." - Ashley Lauren Perez
Via Ashley Lauren Perez
streetsmartprof's insight:
As Ashley points out in the article. It is a good idea to go find out what types of digital footprints you've left in the sand lately. Delete the scoop?
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"Interviewing over Skype is becoming more popular, but how do you conduct yourself using this new medium, and turn it to your advantage?"
"As with conventional face to face interviews preparation is key. Don’t fall into the trap of being too casual or unprepared, interviewing via Skype requires different preparation. Take a moment to consider these factors." - Kaitlin
Read on for 5 areas to make sure you are prepared:
streetsmartprof's insight:
As Kaitlin points out, by controling the environment on your end. An interview via Skype can be the next best thing to being there in person.
Make sure to treat the preparation and how you present yourself to match everything you would do for a live interview. The comfort of your own living space can and does get in the way. Delete the scoop?
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"While I am not the authority on LinkedIn by any means, I have spent a lot of time looking for candidates on it (for many real, open roles at amazing companies) and I know what I like to see." - Jaime Petkanics-Levo League
"So here it is… what recruiters really want to see on your LinkedIn: Via Simone Longpré
streetsmartprof's insight:
Good concise straight forward advice.
Direct from a recruiter who looks at more LinkedIn profiles than we ever will.
As a recruiter, Jamie is looking for the facts. As a 2nd step, she recommends you wrap the facts within a story. Considering a story can help the facts be retained by over 20 times, this advice is dead on. Delete the scoop?
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"Looking for your dream job? While networking and strong personal branding get you hired, using niche job boards to seek out opportunities sets a strong foundation for a successful search."
"It allows job seekers to familiarize themselves with the landscape of their niche. Finding a job board to meet your specific career needs can put you on the fast track to finding your dream job."
"Here are seven niche job boards to help find your dream job." Read more:http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1uSyf0/mashable.com/2013/02/16/job-board/
streetsmartprof's insight:
In addition to the job boards focused on niche areas the article also covers The Muse. Allowing you to look inside many companies and see images of the office and profiles of employees. Delete the scoop?
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"A growing number of recent college graduates have taken low-level jobs and moved back in with their parents. But John Wilpers says the opportunities are abundant for Millenials."
"Wilpers says there are six basic steps that new grads can take:"
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"...moving from the school world into the workplace is a huge culture shock."
"...going from an environment where everyone has been the same age... to a diverse social environment with people of all ages and backgrounds present."
"Learning the ropes of a new job.. can be pretty frustrating..."
"Here are some survival tips for new grads: - Dawn Rasmussen
streetsmartprof's insight:
Dawn provides 7 tips of how to survive and thrive in the world of work.
As I read her words, it reminds me while at school, we are all the customers. Meaning we are the ones paying for the education and the odds are you trusted co-students rather quickly. Trusting people rarely, if ever, effected your grades.
In the work environment, building trust one step at a time is critical. The reason, any of us could sabatoge somebodies career by doing something we didn't mean to do. We need to first demonstrate our competence and character before others will begin to trust us. Delete the scoop?
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Getting hired is no easy task nowadays. Many job seekers forget to dissect job descriptions and their personal needs to get to the bottom of what they’re really looking for."
"Fancy job titles and company descriptions aside–what factors are requirements for you to remain happily in a position for the long haul?"
streetsmartprof's insight:
The 7 factors should all be reviewed and answered before much time is spent on the job search to avoid wasted time.
This does not mean don't go look at certain jobs for informational purposes, yet if your livelyhood is on the line, focus is critical.
Here are the seven aspects to consider. http://comerecommended.com/blog/2013/02/05/7-factors-you-forgot-to-consider-during-your-job-search/ Delete the scoop?
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"Needless to say, I was happy to land a role in HR but I was miserable, I learned nothing, and I really felt like I gained nothing from working there."
"Before I knew it, I was looking for work again because I desperately wanted to get out of that less than ideal situation."
"...sometimes finding a job in a company that has a culture that matches your values could be more important than struggling to get your foot in the door for a role you’re targeting." Via Ashley Lauren Perez
streetsmartprof's insight:
As Ashley points out, job seekers need to make sure understanding the company culture is on your "to do list". Even if you do upfront research, go in eyes wide open during any interviews and be prepared to ask questions around the company culture. Delete the scoop?
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Only you can decide if the job being offered is worth taking or not.
The article will provide a fresh perspective in case you end up in this position.