The quickest way to a hiring manager’s heart is to give them something they long for in a résumé – keywords.  Hiring managers use keywords to quickly identify candidates that have the potential to be a fit for the position for which they are hiring.  The average recruiter or hiring manager takes less than 15 seconds to scan a résumé, often utilizing database technology to determine whether a candidate warrants closer examination.  By using keywords prominently in your résumé, you make their job easier and will ensure that your résumé makes it to the short stack; the ones that get looked at again.

Essentially, keywords will make or break a résumé. They are words and phrases that highlight technical and professional areas of expertise, industry-related jargon, achievements, and other critical information about you.  Many employers today use some type of database software to search and store the résumé s that are sent to them by potential candidates.  Hiring managers and recruiters then search these databases using job specific keywords to assist in the résumé screening process.  By knowing and having the keywords employers are looking for in you résumé, you increase your chances of being invited to an interview.

There are several ways to determine which keywords are best for your career objective but these three may be the easiest:

1. Take a look at ads for open positions in your industry.  These postings will be full of keywords ripe for the picking.
2. What are the words or phrases that you use on a daily basis to perform your job function?
3. Trade journals and industry publications are also a good source for current and upcoming keywords.

The debate rages on as to whether having all of your keywords grouped together in a summary section or sprinkled throughout your résumé is the best course of action.  Usually a combination of the two will do the trick.  However; there is one thing to remember while composing your résumé.  Keywords alone will not get you an interview.  They must be supported with solid and quantifiable accomplishments that convey your skills and abilities.

As a nationally Credentialed Career Manager, Coach Kevin Tucker has been partnering with individuals like you for the last 25 years. Through the military, as a minister, a human resources executive, and finally as a career and life transition coach; he has continually been able to help motivated individuals find their calling in life! Check out more at www.CCubedCareer.com.

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Often I hear from my clients that the one area that they feel is holding them back from landing a job is the interview process. They know that their skills and background are solid and they appear to be a perfect match for the position. Overall the face-to-face interview went well, but something just wasn’t clicking. The job either falls into the HR blackhole or they are notified that the position has been filled. Sound familiar?  I want to discuss how to interview with confidence and give you some practical take-a-ways.

Before the interview:

• Research. Become as familiar with the company and position as you can ahead of time. The Internet is an excellent source of information. Do you have any LinkedIn connections with the company? Study the job description and match up your skills and accomplishments with the core competencies your future employer is looking for.
• Know your resume. More than likely, the person interviewing you will have a copy of it in front of them, so anticipate questions based upon the contents of your resume. Think of ways you can expand upon what is written and let the interviewer know you are going to be a great employee.
• Tie up any loose ends. Know where and when the interview is. Make sure you have a way there. Do you need a sitter?  If so, book one now. Are your interview clothes clean and well fitting?  Take care of these details a few days before the interview, not the morning of.

Day of the interview:

• Appearances. Make sure you’re well rested and have had a good meal before heading off to the interview. Take one last look at yourself before you head out the door. You need to look professional and put together. Remember, easy on the fragrances.
• Timing. Arrive early for your interview. If you are kept waiting in the reception area past your interview time, don’t get angry or frustrated-this could be the stress portion of the interview. Be gracious and remember this IS the most important thing you have going on.
• Be enthusiastic!  Make eye contact and be friendly. Answer all questions truthfully and don’t try to bluff when you don’t know the answer. They are not only looking for your responses, but how you respond. They’re also judging how well you will fit in with corporate culture.
• Sell yourself. They know you’re qualified, otherwise you wouldn’t have been asked to come in for an interview. But remember, there is a fine line between selling yourself and overkill. Finally, ask for the job. It’s one way that hiring managers determine your enthusiasm for the position.

Post Interview:

• Thanks!  Thank them for their time. Try to get their business cards or at the very least everyone’s first and last names and positions. Let them know how much you appreciated the interview.
• Snail mail. Write each person a thank you note as soon as you get home and try to get it in the mail on the same day. Yes, e-mails are quicker and easier, but there is nothing like a personal note written in your own handwriting. Offer to follow up in a few days.
• Follow up!  Call the interviewer and ask about the status of the position. Use this opportunity to give yourself one last plug!

Still need help?  Give the me a call and we can talk about ways to polish your interviewing skills or any other area that you feel you need help with.

As a nationally Credentialed Career Manager, Coach Kevin Tucker has been partnering with individuals like you for the last 25 years. Through the military, as a minister, a human resources executive, and finally as a career and life transition coach; he has continually been able to help motivated individuals find their calling in life! Check out more at www.CCubedCareer.com.

Technorati Tags: career coaching, career consulting, Coaching, interview coaching, interview tips, interviewing, kevin tucker, skills inventory

Enhancing your career can depend on how ready you are to take advantage of opportunity when it presents itself. That means that you need to be ready to introduce yourself quickly to people you might run into casually in the office or in other business settings. Mike Myatt, in the article “How’s your elevator pitch?” says that he has several versions of his own introduction prepared depending on audience, environment, and need.

Myatt says that a good introduction imbues you with credibility and confidence and allows you to tell other what you do and how you are working toward  eliminating fears the company has, eradicating painful situations the company faces, or meeting the needs the company has pinpointed for itself. And Myatt says you should be able to do this in 50 words or less.

So, for instance, when you run into a manager, you could introduce yourself by saying: “My name is Jim Johnson. I’m a marketing representative. I specialize in making sure new clients are comfortable in their knowledge about our services before they commit their money to us. And this year, I’m working toward the goal of 100 percent client satisfaction.”

Once you have an introduction that you like, work to perfect it. Practice it-and then use it when the need arises.

Preparing for small moments can open doors to a bigger future.

As a nationally Credentialed Career Manager, Coach Kevin Tucker has been partnering with individuals like you for the last 25 years. Through the military, as a minister, a human resources executive, and finally as a career and life transition coach; he has continually been able to help motivated individuals find their calling in life! Check out more at www.CCubedCareer.com.

Technorati Tags: attitude, career coach, career coaching, career consulting, career inventory, interview tips, kevin tucker, self improvement

One thing we do know is that we can predict the change. Gas prices or grocery prices or whatever are-and will likely be-constantly changing.

Let’s unpack this in light of the job search. You’re applying for a position that you know is the prefect match for your experience and goals for the future. But, unbeknownst to you, the employer’s needs (and the position) have changed part way through the process-and they didn’t even tell you! Now what? The job you’re in the process for applying for could be totally different from what the employer actually is going to hire for.

If you’ve spent time researching the company, discovering their line of work, and becoming familiar with their industry, you may be able to navigate around this roadblock. Being armed with this information with help you to flex with the employers needs. In this case, as the employer redefines the position, it may end up being even a better fit for you! Once you have this fit, you’ll be able to attack your career with passion and look forward to Monday morning!

As a nationally Credentialed Career Manager, Coach Kevin Tucker has been partnering with individuals like you for the last 25 years. Through the military, as a minister, a human resources executive, and finally as a career and life transition coach; he has continually been able to help motivated individuals find their calling in life! Check out more at www.CCubedCareer.com.

Technorati Tags: career coach, career coaching, kevin tucker

These days it seems that employers are googling potential candidates before they hire. It’s just one more way of eliminating potential problems before employers welcome workers into their world. As a matter of fact, according to a recent survey of 100 executive recruiters by ExecuNet, 77 percent of recruiters reported using search engines to find information on candidates. Of those who used such search engines, 35 percent have eliminated a candidate because of information that was uncovered online.

Here are a few tips for improving your online image:

• Be careful. When you’re blogging or posting a comment online or creating a social networking profile. Would you really want someone who has the power to hire or not hire you to see what you’ve written?
• Search for information about yourself. Check your name on Goggle, Dogpile.com, and Yahoo!, as well as any other search engines you think might turn something up about you. Be sure to check your name about once a month to see if anything appears.
• Tell the truth if you are questioned about something online. You don’t want to be pegged as dishonest.

As a nationally Credentialed Career Manager, Coach Kevin Tucker has been partnering with individuals like you for the last 25 years. Through the military, as a minister, a human resources executive, and finally as a career and life transition coach; he has continually been able to help motivated individuals find their calling in life! Check out more at www.CCubedCareer.com.

Technorati Tags: assessments, career coaching, career inventory, kevin tucker

My daughter who attends NAU is always complaining about the high price of gas and how difficult it is to keep her tank full with the current prices. Once again, that got me thinking on how an empty gas tank could relate to our career journeys. I then realized that we all have inner “gas tanks” which, depending upon how our search or life is going at any particular time could be 3/4 full or even on the big E.

But really, how full is your own tank; the one that needs to be renewed on a regular basis? Whether you’re the wannabe, worker bee, or even the head enchilada, you need to refuel yourself so that you continue to be productive and give of yourself to others. It’s difficult to pull energy from within when you are drained! Can you even remember the last time you filled your tank? What I mean by filling your tank is, what have you done to fill yourself spiritually, physically, and intellectually?

Filling your tank spiritually can happen many ways. You can participate in your faith’s activities or services; spend time daily reflecting, meditating, or praying. Reading or studying books or other materials can help to renew your spirit. Giving back to your community by volunteering does wonders for the soul also! Find a great cause and help!

Physical activity, some welcome it some dread it. Be that as it may, it’s a great way to relieve stress and clear your mind. Go for a walk, go to the gym, or do something with your kids. You’ll be amazed at your increased energy level!

When’s the last time that you read a book or attended a seminar or workshop that stimulated you intellectually? Do you have a hobby or have you thought about getting one? Does your career field have continuing education requirements, or maybe you’re thinking of updating your skills. Check out classes at the rec center or local college.

No matter what you are doing, take time to fill your tank. You’ll feel better for it.

Technorati Tags: kevin tucker, life coaching, self improvement

Just because school’s out, and everyone is leaving town to beat the heat, it doesn’t mean it’s time to take a vacation from your job search.  In fact, the timing couldn’t be better.  The economy is getting stronger and employers are starting to hire once again.  Here is some information to ignite your job search and get you the position you’ve been looking for!

Do you have access to a phone and an e-mail address?  It’s imperative that potential employers have a convenient way to contact you, otherwise, they may move on to the next qualified applicant.  If you don’t have a phone, ask a trusted friend or relative if you can use their number to put on applications and your résumé.  Make sure they know that if an employer tries to contact you through them, that it’s essential that you get the message ASAP!  If you don’t have a computer at home, your local library has computers with internet access for you to use free of charge!  You can set up a FREE e-mail account with Hotmail.com or Yahoo.com.  Check for e-mail messages frequently in case an employer is trying to contact you.

Is your résumé “package” current?  A basic resume package includes a resume, cover letter, reference sheet, and thank you letter. (Yes, a thank you letter!)  Is your contact information up to date on everything?   Does your resume reflect your most current skills and work experience?  It needs to communicate duties and responsibilities, followed by sold accomplishments that prove your ability to be successful in your position.   Your resume should also include keywords relevant to your industry and avoid any unnecessary words.  Sometimes you only have 15 to 30 seconds to show a prospective employer your value and possible contributions to their company before they move onto the next résumé in the pile.  A well written cover letter will include the position you’re applying for, express your interest in the position and the company, outline your qualifications and accomplishments in comparison to the job description, and ask for an opportunity to interview.  Your reference sheet will have both professional and personal references that an employer can call to verify your character and work habits.  Include their name, mailing address, and a phone number where they can be reached.  Make sure the individuals that you include on your reference sheet will be able to paint a positive picture about you.  Finally, a simple thank you note to the person(s) you interviewed with is a nice touch and should thank the interviewer for their time, once again express interest in the position, and reaffirm your qualifications.

Network, network, network!  Everybody knows somebody and somebody knows about a job somewhere!  Tell your friends and family that you’re looking.  More than likely, they would love to assist and will help you brainstorm!  Join a job networking group.  Your place of worship, the library, and the unemployment office are great resources for finding out about these groups.

The internet is your friend, but not your only one.  A lot of jobs are posted on the Internet, but also utilize your local newspaper, job publications such as The Job Examiner (distributed at grocery stores and gas stations) and watch for career fairs.  If you are a recent graduate or alumni, your school may have a career services center.  Many schools often have relationships with employers who are looking for newly graduated students.  Consider an internship.  They can turn into a regular position.  Target companies that you would like to work for and pay them a visit.  You may not get past the receptionist, but you could come away with an application and a job lead that wasn’t announced anywhere else. Temporary agencies are also a good avenue.  Find one in the phone book that specializes in your field of work.  Headhunters are also another source as they are often retained by companies to fill vacant positions.

Get organized!  Keep track of resumes you have submitted, applications you have filled out, and companies you have interviewed with.  You should know where you are in the process for each and every job you apply for.  Key information to track is:

• Position title, company name, address, phone number, and point of contact.
• How you heard about the position, date applied, and the method (fax, e-mail, internet, in person, or mail).
• Any information you have about the position and the company as well as any notes from conversations or interviews you’ve had with the point of contact.

Do something positive everyday for your search.  By doing something everyday you will be moving forward, gathering momentum to get you that job that you’ve been searching for!

Technorati Tags: assessments, career coaching, job search, kevin tucker, resume

As you are having a conversation / interview with your new employer, you need to connect you need to share stories and situations that they can relate to - remember they are the one hiring you!

As I was preparing that post, I ran across an article by Meridith Levinson, “Job Seekers: How to Tell Stories to Stand Out” that says it well:

Sensory details provide an essential element of good story-telling, says Hansen, because they help draw in audiences. Just as descriptions of a house’s smell or a character’s clothes make a story more believable, details about a job seeker’s professional experience will make their stories more credible and enticing to hiring managers.

“In a job seeking story, numerical details-numbers, percentages-are really important,” says Hansen. Key details to include in résumés and cover letters and in your answers to interview questions are the size of the IT budget you oversaw, the number of people you managed, size and scope of projects, and percents and dollars of revenue generated or costs cut.

Though detail is helpful, job seekers want to make sure they emphasize the particulars that are important to their audience-the hiring manager. They don’t want to waste precious interview time describing what their employer’s office looks like or the taste of the coffee in the break room.

The Two-Minute Rule

All this talk about recounting stories shouldn’t make job seekers think they need to transform simple, straightforward anecdotes about their professional experiences into epic tales. Rambling responses to interview questions bore hiring managers.

Consequently, Hansen says job seekers’ responses to interview questions shouldn’t run longer than two minutes. She recommends that you draft your stories on paper, rehearse them out loud with friends or family who can provide feedback, and revise them as necessary until you can hit all necessary points in two minutes or less.

Delivery

Even well-structured stories can fall flat if they’re not delivered with emotion. This is particularly true for challenge-action-result formats, admits Hansen, so job seekers should speak about their work with enthusiasm. A job seeker’s passion for his or her metier is infectious and demonstrates another quality that hiring managers find irresistible in prospective employees-confidence.

Well, thanks to Meridith for these thoughts. However it is presented-in conversation or the resume, connecting with the person interviewing you is the key!

As a Nationally Credentialed Career and Life Transition Coach, I help people like yourself get more out of life through their career! Is coaching for you? Learn how career and life coaching can help you personally, can help your company, and can help your church. Check out more at www.CCubedCareer.com.

Have you thought, “I’ll just wait till after Christmas and New Years to start looking for a job?” or “no one is hiring on, so why even look?”

I can’t tell you the number of folks that tell me this, but let me help you turn the tables.  There are plenty of positions available this time of year, but it’s all up to you. Let me explain.

Even though there might be a few less “hires” happening right now, those that are networking and discovering those leads will be the ones matching up with the employer’s needs. You see, if most folks take the holiday season off from their job search, your odds will be that much better!

Also, this time of year, it’s a great time for informational interviews - folks are in a very giving spirit - they want to help! I even have one collage that states, “It’s a person’s choice not to be working…” It’s up to you to go out and make the connections-know why your future employer would hire you!

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Life and Career Coach Kevin Tucker, of C-Cubed Career Consulting & Coaching, shares four tips on landing your next job!

Focus. You must say “no” to things that get in the way of your goal of landing the career of your dreams. It’s easy to fill your schedule with “stuff”, but at the end of the day, how did your actions really get you where you went to be?

Change may need to happen. At the end of the day/week, take a look at your schedule. What needs to stay? What need to go? What is in alignment what your goals?

Decision making. Naturally, we react differently to various situations. But I would challenge you to think in a different paradigm. Be proactive. By the way, making decisions that are in alignment, will compliment both your business and personal situations and will yield some great results!

And finally, you need to ask yourself, “what is the cost for not taking action in aligning your schedule?” The results of this question will dictate your desire for change.

In life, we constantly have many different things that want (and sometimes require) our attention. It could be the career, health, relationships, family, fill in the blank here… But it’s always up to us to decide where we take our actions. All the best in your search!

As a nationally Credentialed Career Manager (CCM), Coach Kevin Tucker has been partnering with individuals like you for the last 25 years. Through the military, as a minister, a human resources executive, and finally as a career and life transition coach; he has continually been able to help motivated individuals find their calling in life! Check out more at www.CCubedCareer.com.

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