What does your Online Presence Say About You?

We all know the impact that social media is having on the world - it’s everywhere and for the most part, everyone is using it in some way or another.  Social networking and being connected can improve your job search immensely.   It can also risk your chances of being hired if you are not presenting a professional online presence.  In previous blog posts, we looked at 3 different social networking outlets and the pros and cons to using them; hopefully you have had a chance to dabble in the new era and have been using your social media accounts to strengthen your job search! 

An important part of job searching is remaining professional at all times; we’ve seen that there are cameras and computers everywhere and at any given moment, your picture or comments or status updates, can pop up on Social Media websites without your consent – and it’s not just Facebook; once something is posted on the internet (and with limited security settings) its easily accessible to anyone, including hiring managers and recruiters who may be “google” your name (search) to get a better idea of the person you are!

Remaining professional is important in your status updates as well.  It may be beneficial to keep Facebook as a personal outlet and set your privacy settings appropriately to ensure you are not sharing your feelings with the entire world.  When changing your status on sites such as LinkedIn or tweeting on Twitter, make sure you are saying things that are relevant to job searching or the industry that you are interested in working in.  Don’t post anything that can be taken in the wrong way, is too controversial or that could damage your reputation.

Remember, social media networking is a great job search tool however, it is important to ensure your professionalism and to continue to incorporate other job search tools from your job search toolkit to broaden your search.

                                                                                                               -Sunny + Sassy                                                                                                   

Motivation

Incorporating your Skills and Attributes into Your Job Search

The  Skills and Attributes that you have on your Resume

can be useful during your Job Search!

The ability to adapt to a changing Work/Life Environment

It’s important to be able to adapt to change.  Change affects us all in different ways and can be a very hard thing for some of us to cope with; however, in order to move forward, you must develop coping methods to allow you to adapt to change.  During your job search, things are ever-changing – even the way that employers what to see a resume written often changes.  If your job search simply is not getting results; you may want to change your job search approach.

Strong Communication Skills

Having the ability to listen attentively and ask questions if needing clarification will allow you to maximize your job search.  Strong communication skills with show in your daily job search efforts through your networking, interviewing, and cover letter/resume writing abilities.   Be sure that you are speaking clearly, attentively listening and that your email communication is professional.

Creative Thinking

Sometimes you will need think outside the box and be open-minded in order to reinvent your job search!  Simply sending out resumes online all day will probably not get you a job.  Be creative – what can you do to expand your network, increase your skills set and bring your job search to another level.  Remember to be open to suggestions from family and friends; these people are on the outside and may see things from a different perspective and this can work for you, not against you.

Self-motivated

Once you have been job searching for a significant amount of time, it can be hard to be self-motivated; but you have to whatever you can do to get up and work your network, search/apply for jobs and do things to increase your job search, everyday!   Remember to make time for yourself throughout your job search activities; this will ensure your motivation stays up!

Time Management

Having the ability to prioritize tasks to see projects through to completion is a key skill through your job search.  Use whatever tools you can in order to make yourself organized.  Journal, make lists, set your cell phone alarms with reminders.  

Self-Awareness

In order to make changes to ourselves and our lives, we must have the ability to recognize the things that need to be changed.  When a person is self-aware and in tune with their emotions and abilities, it is easier to make necessary changes that will benefit you in your job search and in your life.  Being able to determine personal needs, strengths and areas to be improved upon are important during your job search and moving you forward through the job search tunnel.

How to make Temp Employment…Permanent Employment!

Sometimes accepting temporary employment is the only option for a job seeker!  In today’s economy, more employers are hiring temporary staff in order to cut down on labour costs; however, that doesn’t mean that they don’t actually need a full time or part time employee to handle the position on a regular basis!  
More and more employers are finding temp agencies to be attractive options when it comes to hiring as they are able to get quick and easy access to a fully screened, professoinally interviewed, referenced and skill test worker.
Let’s look at a few tips to make your chances stronger of turning temporary employment into a permanent job. 

Be a shining star!  It’s easy to fall into the “well it's only temporary” mind set while working in a temp job; even if it’s not on purpose, some people will not work to their full potential in a temp job.  To show the company that you are worth a permanent position, ensure you are giving 110% to the tasks and job!  Take initiative, ask questions when you are not sure and use your strong work ethic.

Be a Team Player!  Sure, it’s only a temp job…for now, but remember to show your interest in the company staff and management and show that you can fit into the company.  Attend staff parties, join company sports teams and make sure that you are giving your best to your work team!

Do your Homework!  Really get to know the company that you are working for and the project/job that you are doing.  Read up on exciting company news, learn the ropes and take an interest in the companies values, goals and corporate strategies.

Practice the Basics!  Always be on time for work and from lunch/coffee breaks, dress appropriately, don’t do personal business on company time and engage yourself in your tasks fully!

Don’t be a Bother!  Even though you are hoping this opportunity will turn into a permanent position; don’t dwell on it.  Asking your manager numerous times about whether or not this opportunity will be expanded, may annoy him/her.  That being said, it’s ok to have the conversation with the HR director, manager, etc that you are interested in a permanent position if one should come available.

Keep in mind, if a temp position doesn’t turn into a permanent position, it’s still letting you gain skills/experience and building your professional network!

~Sunny & Sassy 

JOB SEARCH TIP

Oh Procrastination!

Oh Procrastination! it can work against you, or for you.  Everyone procrastinates in one way or another.  Some people have the ability to put things off to the very last minute and somehow make a shining recovery or a perfect presentation, while others will struggle if they leave things to the very last minute.  Either way, you will need to determine what is best for you when it comes to preparing for interviews, job search, work projects, etc.  Let’s look at a few ways of dealing with procrastination.

The To-Do List – most of us create lists or jot down things that we want to do; this can be in any aspect of our lives: chores, job search, goals, etc.   The easiest way of re-directing procrastination is doing the hardest item on the list First.   If you start with the easier items, you are pushing the hard tasks even further away!

Step by Step – so you have been meaning to contact a certain company to ask for an informational interview, but you haven’t gotten around to it yet (for whatever reason) – start with preparing a script of what you are going to say.  Start the projects you are procrastinating step-by-step – even the smallest step will bring you closer to the end point.

Call in Reinforcements – having a friend or spouse remind you what needs to be done, this may be the push that you need in order to get things done!

Ask yourself “Why?” – for each task that you have been putting off, honestly ask yourself why you have been putting it off.  Is it because you are scared to schedule that informational interview because you may be rejected?  Are you not motivated to tailor your resume to specific job postings because it takes too much effort?  Whatever the reason are for not starting your tasks, if you ask yourself “Why” – you may be able to overcome the procrastinating and just Do It. 
                                                                                                   -Sunny + Sassy
                                                                                                                                                      -                                                                                                                       

Procrastination

Job Search Variety - "A Little Bit of Everything"

Too often jobseekers get sucked into what is deemed the 'black hole' of job search. Hundreds of applications submitted online and/or via email without any response.

To avoid being sucked into the black hole of internet job search, it is important to utilize a '"little bit of everything" in your job search plan. Internet job search is okay but needs to be combined with a variety of job search tools such as networking, informational interviews, cold calling, volunteering and social media.


Job search needs to be incorporated into every aspect of your life. Being prepared for any opportunity is key. Having business cards on hand is crucial. Being able to tell someone about yourself and your skills at the drop of a hat and in a concise, confident manner is also important.

Let people around you and in your selected industry know you are seeking employment. Securing employment through the grapevine is a common practice with employers. When a job opening becomes available, it is not uncommon for an employer to ask his/her employees if they know anyone who would be suitable for the position. 
When you receive a job lead, act on it immediately and spend that extra time tailoring your resume for the position. The time spend tailoring may be what secures you the interview.  
Variety in your job search ensures that you are covering all your bases and avenues of opportunity. "A Little Bit of Everything" increases your likelihood of receiving a response to your applications.

So, instead of relying solely on the internet for your job search and suffering from the 'black hole' syndrome, spice up your search, add some variey; be innovative and creative and positive results will surely follow!

                                                                                                                     -Sunny + Sassy 

Job Search Monotony

Are you suffering from job search monotony? If so, you are not alone.

Job search can feel endless, day after day, applying for jobs; no response, some response; possibly an interview here and there. But, still no job!

Despite the ongoing tedious repetition and routine; it is important to maintain momentum when job searching and this comes with motivation. So, keep at it, no matter how you feel when you wake up in the morning. Do something everyday to move you towards employment.
Perhaps you feel like laying on the couch all day, watching TV; perhaps you want to stay in bed; but, don't. At least not until you have made some movement in your job search. Perhaps you have follow-up emails to do or you could work on tailoring your resume.

On the days that you are feeling particularly confident and productive, make a number of cold calls, attend informational interviews, network, attend functions, volunteer, socialize; connect with other job seekers.
Add variety to your job search to break up the monotony; for instance, explore blogs, utilize social media for information and inspiration.

Persistence and determination will eventually pay off with the end result being a job but you are the only one who can make that happen.
There is light at the end of the job search tunnel but you have to move towards it in order to see it!


                                                                                                             -Sunny + Sassy

Barrier After Barrier

Dear Job SOS,

I don't understand why I have been so unfortunate in my job search. Every time I turn around, I am confronted with a barrier.
For example, yesterday, as usual, I began my job search schedule and when I turned on my computer, I had a black screen; couldn't access it so I packed up my stuff and went to the library to use a computer. When I got to the library, I realized I didn't have my wallet so I had to go home to get it. By the time I got back to the library, all the computers were being used and I had to wait an hour. When I finally was able to get to a computer, and accessed my email account, I discovered that my inbox and sent mail had disappeared. Turned out my account had been swept by a virus.
Because I had assumed I could access my resume on my email, I didn't bring my flashdrive with my resume on it to the library, so I was unable to apply for any jobs.
When I left the library, I was almost hit by a car while crossing the street. The driver yelled at me, "Get a move on it, you old bat!"
When I called a friend to talk about it, my phone battery died. It was then I burst into tears!
Why me? I don't understand why life is so difficult.

From Barrier After Barrier





Dear Barrier After Barrier,

Sounds like your day was pretty upsetting; every time you turned around something happened that prevented you from moving forward in your job search. It's important to recognize that those types of days will happen periodically and it's okay. It's how you deal with it that matters.
It's also important to give yourself permission to take a day off from job searching especially if things are not happening positively. Not something you want to make a habit of, but okay periodically.
Easier said than done, but sometimes it's best to let things 'roll' off of you. Some things are not worth stressing over. At least, not for a long period of time!
Ask yourself what you can learn from your experiences and utilize this information to continue to move forward in your job search. For instance, it's important to utilize various job search strategies into your daily and weekly plans such as networking, cold calling and informational interviews. It is important that your job search is not solely focused on the computer. Not only is it important to have an assorted job search plan to cover all avenues but it comes in handy when your computer breaks down!
And, it's okay to cry! Sometimes life is difficult and learning ways to cope with the difficulties is what makes us stronger.
Journalling and/or talking to someone are ways of working through the difficulties. So, plug in your phone and try calling your friend again!
Remember- determination, persistence and patience are important qualities when it comes to job search and they are also important qualities when it comes to dealing with whatever life throws at you!
                                                                      
From Sunny + Sassy                                                               

Turn Failure into Success!

Failure is some form is inevitable. Failure is a part of  life. We all fail in various ways, it's how we deal with it that will make the difference!

For instance, failure can be a stong motivator, pushing us to do better.

For those job seekers who are confronted with a sense of failure on a continual basis, remember that with persistence and determination, out of failure will come success!

Turn failure into success and you will find the light at the end of the job search tunnel!

                                                                                                                         -Sunny + Sassy

Fathers Day

Struggling With Narrowing Down Your Resume?

If you are struggling with narrowing down your resume, you are not alone.

Many people, when faced with unemployment and the immediate requirement of producing a resume, tend to write down their entire work history dating back a number of years.

And for those who have never written a resume, it makes sense to document their skills in their entirety. So, when they are faced with tailoring their master resume, they may struggle against it, even refuse to do it stating that all their skills and past employment positions are important.

But, for the employer it is not necessary to read about everything the applicant has done in their working life-time. In fact, the employer requires specifics related to the position being offered and may brush over, delete or disregard resumes which are 'overwhelming' and provide too much information not relevant to the job opening.

The main objective of the resume is to land you the interview and if your resume is not narrowed down and tailored for specific job postings, there is a high likelihood that your resume will not be put into the interview pile.

But for some who struggle with narrowing down and/or removing information from their resumes, the notion of tailoring may represent a dismantling of their capabilities and minimization of their purpose and existence. They may feel as if their skills are being minimized or not recognized if eliminated or not included in their resume. For some, the resume writing process of tailoring may prove to be very stressful and emotional.

So, if you find you're battling yourself, resisting changing or narrowing down your resume, step back and put yourself in the employer's shoes; imagine 100, 200 even 500 resumes.  Would you bother reading the ones that appear as essays or date back 20 years or more?

Examine your reaction to removing information. Where is this feeling coming from? What is stopping you from narrowing your resume down? Talk to a friend, family member or counsellor about your struggle. Ask for opinions from professionals such as employment counsellors.

And remember, all of your skills are within you and to remove or not include some of them on your resume doesn't mean you are taking away a part of yourself or that your skills are being minimized.

Your master resume will continue to exist (when tailoring a resume, one can re-save the new version under a new filename). Your master or general resume is a reflection of all your skills and employment history.

A resume is a work in progress and is versatile, meaning that many versions may be produced and tailored for various job postings. And all of these versions represent you!

                                                                                   -Sunny + Sassy

Incorporate Blogging into Your Job Search

Blogging for Job Search?  What a great idea!!

Just another tool to add to your job search toolbox – the Blog.  Job Seekers can create a blog that would benefit their job search in many ways including making them noticeable to potential employers, and having an outlet to document job search activities and  share what works (and what doesn’t) with other job seekers!  Creating a blog is simple; it’s maintaining it that takes some work.

The first step is to think of an idea for your blog.  If you are job searching in a certain industry, for example Real Estate, you could create a blog and discuss market trends, and other topics that would be relevant to the industry.  You could also create a general job search blog and document your job search journey; this not only helps you see what your doing right or wrong, but allows others to learn from your job search activities.  You could include helpful links to job search websites, resume creating websites, etc.  

The next step is to create your blog.  There are several blog sites that you can access for free to create a blog.  To name a few:
 www.blogger.com    www.wordpress.com    www.blog.com

When developing the design of your blog; keep in mind your content and who your audience is most likely to be.  Also keep it professional so that you can share this blog site on your resume for employers to view to get a sense of your interests and industry knowledge.  You may only want to share a blog that is appropriate for the industry that you are seeking employment; a general job search blog documenting the trials and errors of your job search probably isn’t appropriate to share on your resume.

Once you have created your blog – its time to start Blogging!!  You will get the hang of it in  time.  Try and blog once per day if you can to engage your reader and to engage your mind!

Adding blogging to your jobsearch toolkit is another way to expand your search + bring you closer to the light at the end of the job search tunnel!

                                                                                                                            -Sunny + Sassy

Self Awareness in Job Search

Self Awareness is important in any aspect of life, especially while you are looking for work!  If you are aware of how you approach your job search; you can determine what is working and what is not.  Let's start by making a list.

In your job search journal, on a piece of paper or on your computer, answer the following questions: 

Answer each of these questions honestly and reflect on your answers.  Perhaps job searching at a different time of the day would make your search more effective; when you are more focused.  Perhaps your financial situation motivates you to look for work, but you are spending all your time watching television and not spending enough time tailoring your resume and networking to find jobs.

See what you can come up with.  Making lists and journaling are important for self-discovery.  Self awarenss helps you to see where your problem areas are so that you can work on improvement.  You may find that your job search efforts are not what they seem and that you need to add a bit more for a more effective job search that will pay off!

~Sunny & Sassy

Reach For Your Future

Tips for Effective Communication

Most people have to communicate with someone in their lives, each and every day.  Every person is different and there are many different personalities and communication styles out there in the business world.  To ensure you are not offending someone or to make your point come across in a clear manner; follow these tips for more effective communication in your everyday life as well as in your job search.



Actively Listen – Showing that you are actively listening while having a conversation will show respect to the other person as well as demonstrate you are listening to what the other person is saying.  Maintain eye contact and a clear mind while the other person is speaking.  Concentrate on what is being said verses trying to figure out what you are going to say while the other person is talking. This will ensure that you are actively listening to what is being said.
Non-verbal Communication - Be aware of non-verbal communication.
Remember, most of what we communicate is not through words but through non-verbal communication such gestures, expressions, posture and signals. Watch for signals which indicate the listener is bored or not understanding what you are saying or asking.


Take a Moment – Before responding to questions or comments; take a moment to reflect on what was just said to you.  Try not to speak exactly what is on your mind in response because the words may not end up coming out as you want them to.  In other words, think about what you are going to say before responding.


Ask Questions – If you require clarification about what is being discussed, be sure to ask questions that you require answers to in order to make an informed decision or returning statement.  Be specific and as concise as possible. Keep your questions simple in order to get to the point as soon as possible.  Asking questions demonstrates that you are listening to what is being said by the other person.

Avoid fillers - Try not to use conversation fillers such as Ums...Ahs... etc. especially in communications regarding your job search. Fillers distract from the conversation at hand and may create a loss of attention by the listener.

Avoid Interrupting- Give the person time to complete his/her sentences. Try not to interrupt. Do not finish his/her sentences or put words in his/her mouth. Instead, hold an important thought or question in your mind and when the person has finished speaking, refer to it. If the conversation has passed the point you had in mind, refer back to your point in order to address your thoughts/ideas  in the conversation. Sometimes you may find that you no longer need to make your point as it is no longer relevant to the conversation at hand. Remember, it is okay to 'not talk.'

Remain Open Minded– Sure, you may have a strong opinion about the subject that is being discussed; however, ask yourself if it’s the right time to be sharing a strong opinion.  Keep open-minded during discussions. Try not to make assumptions and/or judgements. Refrain from using offensive language and comments which may offend someone.

Maintain a Positive Attitude - People will be more inclined to communicate with you if you maintain a positive attitude! They will also be more interested in what you have to say. This includes being positive in your sentence structure as well.

                                                                                                                               -Sunny + Sassy

Email Etiquette

Email etiquette is an issue that may not be obvious to a jobseeker until s/he finds themself in an awkward situation.
Email represents 85 to 90% of business communication and is becoming more and more common in today's job search. Therefore, as a jobseeker, it is important to be aware of how you are utilizing this important tool.

Some Do's and Don'ts of Email Etiquette:

DO
*Be professional
*Be brief and informational
*Be timely in your responses
*Proofread
*Be specific regarding when you'd like to hear from the person you are emailing 
*Be respectful when setting a time frame for responses
*Prioritize your responses to emails

Be aware that your emails reflect your professionalism. Be clear about the distinctions between professional vs. personal.



DON'T
*Do not use abbreviations (not okay to use texting & twitter language in an professional email)
*Do not press send or reply until you have edited
*Do not continue to send repetitive emails to employers; this may be viewed as annoying and desperate
*Do not depend on emails as your only source of communication!

                                                                                  -Sunny + Sassy

Never Lose Sight!

Challenge Yourself!

Feeling Angry About Being Unemployed?

                         Do you see 'red' when you think about being unemployed?

Feeling angry about being unemployeed is a common reaction to an unfortunate situation; however, for some, it is not always an easy emotion to identify. This is because anger can manifest itself in a number of disguised ways such as depression, sarcasm, negative expressions/communication, illness etc.
Sometimes anger can appear suddenly; exploding unexpectedly and surprising the job seeker as well as family and friends who may experience the repercussions of the job seeker's misdirected anger. This type of anger is easily identified.

Anger can have damaging effects not only to the job seeker and family/friends but also to the job search process. That's why it is important to identify it and attempt to deal with it!
Once identified and acknowledged, it is important to release it in an appropriate and safe manner.
Keeping in mind that everyone is different, some ideas for releasing anger include:

-physical activity; including sports, walking/jogging, dancing etc. Singing to music is useful for some people

-yelling in a safe environment where others are not startled and/or impacted (ie. in a stationary vehicle with windows rolled up; in a forested area). Some people find it useful to scream into their pillow.

-throwing safe objects in a safe environment (ie. tennis balls against a wall, eggs into a bathtub; stones into the ocean)
-some find it useful to talk about how they are feeling
-writing, drawing, painting, creative activities

Even if anger has not been identified as a concern for the job seeker, the above actions are useful for releasing pent-up emotions affiliated with being unemployed.

When dealing with anger and unemployment, it is important to recognize that you have some power in your situation; all is not hopeless!
For instance, you have the power to engage in a productive job search, seek out information and support. This type of pro-active stance towards unemployment assists in decreasing the helplessness and despair. And the more positive movement there is, the more chances there are of becoming employed. 

Post interview reactions may include anger if you felt you did really well in an interview but didn't get the position.  Instead of being angry at the employer/situation or misdirecting your anger towards family or friends; try turning it around, learning from the experience. Re-frame your reaction. Do you really want to work a job that you are not a good fit for? Probably best that you did not get the job.
Sometimes things are meant to happen for a reason!

So, next time you feel angry or have symptoms of repressed anger, try to release it. See how it feels. Before you know it, you will see the light at the end of the job search tunnel!

                                                                                -Sassy + Sunny

How to Avoid Job Search Burn Out

Even the job seeker can suffer from burn out much like some employed people who suffer from workplace burn out.  Looking for work is a full-time job in itself and if you are suffering from burn out, it will show in your networking and when you are interviewing.  Try these tips to prevent job search burn-out.


Ensure you are getting plenty of rest!  Stress shows in your appearance and if you are sleep deprived this could make your appearance suffer and you may be viewed as disinterested or even grumpy in a job interview/networking situation.  You may be lacking sleep due to several reasons, including worrying about financial situations, feeling blue or up all hours of the night browsing through help wanted ads.  Ensure you are getting plenty of rest to keep your energy high!  Turn off your brain early in the evening so that you can relax and get a good night's sleep.


Celebrate your Successes no matter what size they are!  Making sure that you take time to pat yourself on the back for a job well done is very important.  So you created a stellar cover letter and you're proud of it – give yourself the credit You deserve.  Treat yourself once in a while – even if it's with a day off from job searching.  Making sure you celebrate your successes will not only keep you in a positive frame of mind, but  will help keep you focused on your goals and allow your self-esteem to rise.


Get Organized!  Being disorganized will be frustrating to you in the long run.  Keep a job log to help you keep track of what you have applied/interviewed for, when to follow up with an employer and when to celebrate a successful interview!  Try creating folders on your computer for job postings you are interested in or have already applied for.  This also helps you to resort back to postings before heading into an  interview.  Keep the postings, resume/cover letter created for the posting and note any conversations you have had with the employer in the same folder for easy finding!


Find a Job Search Friend!  If you have a friend or family member who is also job searching, keep connected with them.  Let their strength motivate you on those less than perfect days when your spirits are low, and vise versa.  Give them a call to chat and debrief the week's job search activities.  You will feel much better and you will be able to gain feedback on your job search techniques.


And remember, there is light at the end of the job search tunnel!


                                                                                                                                 -Sassy + Sunny

Unemployed for an Extended Period of Time? Feeling Rusty?

Have you been out of the workforce long enough that you are starting to forget what it was like to work?

Is it becoming harder and harder for you to even imagine working again? And when you do, do you experience a physical reaction like, butterflies in your stomach, shaking, faintness etc....?

Are you feeling rusty? If so, it is important to recognize that your feelings are normal. It is not unusual to feel distanced from your skills. It is also important to understand that your skills are still with you, they are just dormant. They've been hibernating.
It's like riding a bike. You will be able to ride again; you might take a few falls but you'll be back on your bike before you know it. Keep sight of the fact that once you land your job and get back into the swing of things, being unemployed will be a distant feeling!

To assist you in reducing your anxiety, consider upgrading or reviewing your skills depending upon what industry you are in. For some, the upgrading may not be costly; for instance - typing programs and computer software upgrading are available free online. Volunteering is another option.

The important thing is to keep sight of your goals and remember that there is light at the end of the job search tunnel!

                                                                               -Sunny + Sassy

Job Search ATTITUDE

The key to a successful job search lies within your attitude! An employer is less willing and/or likely to hire a candidate who appears down and out, lacking in enthusiasm and/or desperate than one who is positive, keen, inquisitive and eager to learn.

A candidate can have all the skills necessary to do the job but if his/her attitude is not positive, the employer is more than likely to bypass this candidate and continue to interview other applicants. 

When you are unemployed, having a positive attitude isn't always easy, especially if you have been out of the workforce for a long period of time. But, your attitude is crucial to a successful job search.

So, how can you pull on your positive self when you are feeling down in the dumps and unable to see the light at the end of the job search tunnel?

Some tips for pulling on your positive self are:

1.    In preparation for a job interview, visualize yourself employed; recall positive moments from previous job(s).

2.    Utilize self-talk before, during and after your interview(s). Remind yourself of your strengths; your positive attributes.

3.    Ensure that you are getting adequate sleep, nutrition and exercise (see previous blog posts on how to de-stress yourself).

4.    Every day, make an effort to look your best!

5.    Smile, discover humor; make an effort to laugh- comedy, jokes, funny memories.

6.    Journal...topics such as: when I imagine working, I feel....My positive strengths are....

7.    Breathe, deeply and often; make sure you have lots of oxygen in your body!

8.    Be around positive energy; friends, family, social clubs that provide positive feedback.

9.    Be aware of your energy. If negative (especially in an interview) turn it around immediately!

10.   Deal with rejection. If you don't get the job, don't let that spill into your next interview. Learn from it and move on.

11.   Remain patient, diligent and structured in your job search; daily, weekly schedules and job logs. Note follow-ups and respond in a timely fashion. Periodically review your job logs to remind yourself of your diligence. Remember, you can only do your best!

12.   Accept yourself! You are where you are for a reason. Learn from your experiences and keep sight of the light at the end of the job search tunnel. Your positive job search attitude will be the key to your success!

                                                                                      -Sunny + Sassy

Tips to Expand Your Network

We all know that networking is an important part of job searching; it usually lands you a job since most jobs are found through word of mouth and are not advertised.  Networking comes easily to the extravert and people who are comfortable with meeting new people and connecting with old contacts.  For the introverts, networking may take a bit more practice to jump in and start talking to people!  Networking doesn’t have to be difficult.  You can literally network with people everywhere you go!  Here are a few tips to get you on your way

·       Contact former co-workers and/or clients/customers (where appropriate) who you had a good rapport with and see if they know of any available job opportunities

·       Contact family and friends in your personal network and let them know you are looking for work; you never know who’s hiring within your friends circles

·       Contact associations that you may be affiliated with and keep connected with their websites for upcoming job and professional development opportunities

·       Create business cards that outline your greatest strengths and skills and the type of employment you are seeking; carry these cards with you where ever you go – you never know when an opportunity may present itself

·       Stay connected with your community and attend local events where you may get the opportunity to meet new people

·       Attend events and meetings at your child’s school; get connected with other parents to learn about opportunities

·       Volunteer your time!  Many times, a permanent job is found simply through volunteering for a company for a short period of time.  Pick an industry you are interested in and volunteer; many communities have resources for volunteer placements.  Google “Volunteer Opportunities + (your city, state/province)” to see what is available

·       If your skills can be contracted out – why not post an ad that advertises your services ie: landscaping, handyman, office admin.  Once you start getting calls and do a great job you will expand your network of clients!

~Sunny & Sassy

Simple Ways to De-Stress Yourself

Stress appears in many different forms; internally and externally. 

Job Searching and not being chosen for the job after an interview can cause tremendous amounts of stress to a person. 

Stress is a part of life, it's learning how to deal with it that is KEY!

Relaxation – Is a must.  Easier said than done, but you have to try and relax.  Take a time-out every day.  Turn off the computer and the television and whatever other noise surrounds you and just concentrate on you.  Take a hot bath, a long walk, a nap.  If you can, lay down and concentrate on your whole body feeling relaxed, breathe deeply and wash the days’ worries away from your mind and body.  Do whatever helps you feel relaxed.  Turn off your mind, don’t think about negative things.

Breathing Exercises – Air is more important than food, water and sleep – we can go without these things for days, but we can’t go without air for very long.  Close your eyes and focus on your breathing.  Take deep breaths in and out and listen to the sounds of your breathing – feel your heart rate slow and your body move into a relaxed state.

Imagine – In a quiet place, imagine your goals and how you will reach them.  Imagine positivity in your life and happiness surrounding you.  When you are feeling stressed, go back to that place and practice your breathing.  Imagery can do wonders for reaching your goals; if you picture yourself where you want to be, it’s easier to get there!

Massage – One of the greatest benefits for our bodies to relax is through massage.  Getting a professional massage can be costly; however, you can ask your partner, family member or a friend to massage you.  Self-massage of the neck, shoulders, legs, feet, etc can also be very beneficial and release tension in your body.

Slow Down – People have become accustomed to a busy life-style.  There is a drive-through for everything, there’s a ‘fast cash’ option at the bank, and everything is go-go-go.  We have lost sight of taking in life’s beauty and slowing down and appreciating what is happening around us.  When you slow down and take time to notice, you will benefit from realization.  You can reduce stress right away by simply slowing down what you are doing; driving, cooking, walking, shopping.

Get Active and Eat Better– It’s proven that exercise, combined with healthy eating, not only provides body-image results, but also reduces stress and motivates clearer thinking.   You don’t need an expensive gym membership to become physically active.  Go on a hike, take a long walk, purchase exercise videos from your local retailer, or access a recreation centre in your neighborhood (which is more cost effective then a major gym membership).  Eating healthy can be simple; look up some recipes online and start cooking!  Fresh vegetables, fruits and meats are often less expensive than pre-packaged meals which aren’t as healthy.

Yoga!  There is a reason this has become such a popular activity – it helps release tension and stress and the clutter from your mind!  You can join a class and learn the basics and then continue to do simple poses every morning from your own home.

Creative Activities - Use your creative energy to release stress. Writing, drawing, dancing....are only a few ways to reduce and release your stress. Spend time doing things you enjoy in a cost-effective way.

Remember, we can't control everything around us however, we can control, to a certain degree how we deal with stress. Making an effort to reduce stress will help you to be more focused and positive about your job search journey. Reducing stress will make finding the light at the end of the job search tunnel a lot easier!
                                                                                -Sunny + Sassy
                                                                                                                           

                                                        

VOLUNTEERING WHILE UNEMPLOYED

Attitudes towards volunteering while job searching vary; for some, it is difficult to consider working for 'nothing' when concerns about finances are forefront. Others may see the opportunity as a means of giving back to community while at the same time networking.

When considering whether or not to volunteer, it is important to weigh the pros and cons; the benefits and the disadvantages.

Some of the disadvantages include unpaid work and may be viewed as time consuming in that it takes away from job search time.

Clearly, however, the pros outweigh the cons and it is important to remember that there is a level of flexibility involved in that when employment is secured, the volunteer commitment will need to be re-evaluated.

For those of you who decide to volunteer it is important to be clear with the organization or charity that you are actively job searching so that they are prepared for when you find employment.

Volunteering, while you are unemployed, is a great tool to move you closer to the light at the end of the job search tunnel!

                                                                                  -Sunny + Sassy