Choose a Career That Pays Off

Early education decisions are critical to future career success. There’s a good reason for that: Without choosing the right courses in ninth grade, students may not get into the right courses in the next three years. Without those credits on their record, they may not get into the right degree program. 

Pay attention to the foundation of aptitude and skills to make the most of an early education strategy.  

Explore five considerations for choosing a field here.

Two Methods of Answering Interview Questions

A type of interview question that isn’t easy to predict is the kind that begins with “Tell me about a time when . . .”  Just like numbers resonate better with a hiring manager than claims of “proven results,” stories resonate better than claims of “proven ability.”

There are two techniques for telling those stories that can be used for all manner of questions in such a behavioral interview.

See the strategies and examples here.

Avoid Identity Theft When Job Searching

Online job seekers are a target for scammers who are looking to steal people's identities. It's important to be sure the jobs you are applying for are legitimate and you're not inadvertently providing personal information that can be used by a scammer.

To protect yourself, you should be aware of common types of identity theft that can happen during job searches and how to avoid scams while job searching.

Review 4 common scams and 6 protection strategies here.

Stable Job but Reasons to Leave

Even with a currently stable job, it  is sometimes necessary to escape a  hostile working environment. If you are dreading going to work every day, then the anxiety may have deleterious effects on your productivity and health. 

Hopefully by evaluating some common situations, you will be able to carefully reevaluate your position and make a sound decision. 

See five situations here.

7 Reasons You’re Not Getting an Interview

It can be frustrating submitting resumes only to receive the silent treatment from prospective employers. Know that you are not alone. Studies show that only 2% of job applicants actually get called in for an interview. You need to be in that 2%. 

There are reasons why you might not get called in for an interview. Have a look at the top seven reasons why you might not be getting an interview here.

How to Explain Gaps in Your Work History

Do you have gaps in your work history? If so, you are not alone. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 6 million Americans are unemployed. Many of these people will have to find a way to explain this gap in their work history, just like you. So, don’t think that having a gap in your work history will prevent you from landing the job you want.

The trick is to push prospective employers to look beyond your work history gap and see the potential you bring to the table.

Here are some tips for how to explain gaps in your work history. Click here for these tips.

Add a Personal Touch to Your Job Inquiry

Personal touches can be important determinants toward a hiring manager’s consideration of your application. Personalize the 30 Second Summary in the first section of your resume specifically towards the company and your qualificaions for the position.

A cover letter gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge about the company. You can mention some of your strengths and skills that will enable the company to achieve its mission, values, and current projects.

See more opportunities for personalization here.