Melissa Martin, bilingual career specialist and ebook author, www.careercoachingbyphone.com gives you cutting edge tips and techniques to blow away the competition and attract employers!

1. SPECIAL REPORT:
16+ secrets to be irresistible to
employers: Create your personal
brand
MMeelliissssaa CC.. MMaarrttiinn,, BB..AA..,, BB..EEdd..
BBiilliinngguuaall jjoobb sseeaarrcchh//ccaarreeeerr EExxppeerrtt
EEbbooookk aauutthhoorr,, HHooww ttoo uussee ssoocciiaall mmeeddiiaa iinn
yyoouurr jjoobb sseeaarrcchh
www.careercoachingbyphone.com

2. Hello, I’m Melissa Martin, bilingual career and job search expert. For over
13 years, I have empowered clients to achieve their job and career
aspirations. My clients have included the unemployed, the underemployed,
military spouses, military members, aspiring entrepreneurs and those who
need career nourishment to re-ignite themselves. My specialization is in
boosting clients’ confidence and helping them market themselves into a
viable product (also known as a personal brand) to employers.
In 2009, my specialization evolved into
www.careercoachingbyphone.com
If you haven’t heard of me yet, my onlineidentityis flourishing on these
sites:
www.careerealism.com(approved career expert)
www.careercommuniqueradio.com(Australia)
www.TRCB.com
www.secretsofthejobhunt.com
www.BrazenCareerist.com
www.waggleforce.com
On a number of occasions,I have been a guest on www.careersuccessradio.org,
hostedby Australians KeithKellerand Annemarie Cross.

3. Perhaps you are reading this FREE report because your job search is stalled,or you
could use a “makeover” of sorts. Let’s face it, the economy is tough right now, BUT it
doesn’t have to be! What if you could STAND OUT with employers tohire you? In any
economy, employers are hiring TALENT.
There is a wealthof useful informationfrom job search experts, career specialistsand
the like.I could write an ebook just on this content alone.But since I strive to be
avant-garde in my career coaching practice, I want to highlight some fresh, insightful
content.And that’s what inspiredme to write this ebook, so you can benefit from:
-job search techniques that have panache (Can you tell that I like to use French, my
second language?!)
-tips and advice perhaps NEVER offered before from a career specialistAND an
employer’s perspective
Purposely,I am avoidingthe “job search basics”for the most part (the appetizer
perhaps). The resources are aplentyregarding resumes, cover letters,etc.I want to
give you the full entrée instead.
But before we leapintothe job search tips (AND BONUSES) available inthis ebook, let
me deal withan unpleasant realityofbeingunemployed or laidoff,self-esteem.And
then, we will advance to some SOLUTIONS to your (temporary) stage of
unemployment.
Building your self-esteem during
unemployment: a starter guide
Quite often, my fellow career professionals deal with the "employability
factor" to help you get hired; but sometimes, they dismiss an issue that can
make or break a prolonged period of unemployment, battered self-esteem.
So how do you stay calm, composed and build self-esteem in tough
economical times? Here are some tips you may to consider as a starter
guide to self-improvement. The first part deals with if you are still employed,
and may be facing a layoff.
Imagine yourself as a Dart Board. Everything and everyone else around you
may become Dart Pins, at one point or another. These dart pins will destroy
your self-esteem and deflate you in ways you won’t even remember. Don’t
let them destroy you, or get the best of you. So which dart pins should you
avoid?
Dart Pin #1: Negative Work Environment

4. Beware of the "dog eat dog” theory where everyone else is fighting just to
survive. This involves non-appreciative people who, unfortunately, often
thrive. No one will appreciate your contributions even if you miss lunch and
dinner, and stay up late. Most of the time you get to work without getting
help from people... Avoid this circumstance; it will ruin your self-esteem.
Competition is at stake in a competitive work world, especially with one in
five Americans who are unemployed.
Dart Pin #2: Avoid others' toxic behaviour
This is an extension of the first point. Bulldozers, gossipmongers, whiners,
backstabbers, snipers, the walking wounded, controllers, complainers,
exploders, patronizers... all these kinds of people will poison your self-
esteem, as long as you give them "your energy" and your attention. Toxic
behaviour pervades those who are already beleagured with low self-esteem,
such as laid-off individuals.
Dart Pin #3: Changing Environment
Baby boomers may recall the Rascals' song in the sixties, "How can I be
sure? How I can be sure in a world that's constantly changing?" (Can you dig
it man?)
Changes challenge our paradigms. For example, where has the permanent
job gone? A job with benefits has been uprooted by uncertainty. Enter the
world of short-term employment and temporary contracts. This is sobering
when a job seeker desires job security. Why not consider temporary
employment, which is enjoying an increase in the workforce? At least you
can accept a contract or register with a temporary employment agency and
regain any last vestiges of your crumbling self-esteem?
I chose temporary employment long ago to make valuable contacts, get a
taste of the labour market, and above all, to be productive. And yes, my
self-esteem received a boost.
Let's face it, if you have received severance pay from the government
following a layoff, temporary employment may be a desirable, short-term
outcome for you.
Change is inevitable in the digital, social networked world. Rather than react
to change, a preferable behaviour, and perhaps ultimately a skill, is to adapt
to change. (Incidentally, look up my previous article, "How to deal with the
signs of a layoff," part I, on my blog,
http://webinarcareercoach.blogspot.com/

5. Dart Pin#4: Past Experience
It’s appropriate and normal to grieve about unemployment. Grief equals
pain, plain and simple. But don’t let pain transform into fear. This period of
unemployment is TEMPORARY.
Your past experience represents value to employers! You just need to craft it
into a "professional brand" that entices employers to hire you.
Instead of focusing on WHY you were laid off (most often it is not a
reflection of your work performance, but a money issue), focus on what was
valuable in your previous employment. How did your experience get you
hired before your layoff?
Psychologist Dr. Ron Warner, who certified me in solution-focused
interviewing and counselling, once observed, "No problem exists 24/7 except
for terminal illness and chronic pain." How true!
Dart Pin #5: Negative World View
Focus on your goals, as small as they may be. How about connecting with 5
referrals by phone in the next week? Conducting an informational interview?
Setting up a free social media account to get acquainted with new
technology? Don’t allow the negativities of unemployment burst your bubble.
In building self esteem, we must learn how to make the best out of the
worst situations.
No doubt you've heard of individuals being laid off or unemployed for
prolonged periods, only to enjoy a rebirth and regeneration of themselves.
(By the way, 2010 is the year of the tiger in the Chinese system, which
means rebirth and resilience). I wrote an article about the Chinese
astrological system, Broke your new year's resolution? Turn to the Chinese
New Yr (of the tiger) to re-ignite your job search on www.careerealism.com
In the common vernacular, we might call this a "blessing" if you have been
laid off for some time and then found meaningful employment afterward.
Dart Pin #6: Determination Theory
The way you are and your behavioural traits, is said to be a mixed end
product of your inherited traits (genetics), your upbringing (psychic), and
your environmental surroundings such as your spouse, the company, the
economy or your circle of friends. You have your own identity. If your father
is a failure, it doesn’t mean you have to be a failure too. Learn from other

6. people’s experience, so you’ll never have to encounter the same mistakes.
Being positive, and staying positive is a personal choice. Building self-
esteem and drawing lines for self- improvement is a choice, not a talent.
Let's harken back to the wisdom of Eleanor Roosevelt, "No one can make
you inferior without your consent."
In life, it’s hard to stay motivated and upbeat when faced with the life-
altering event of a layoff or unemployment. The grim reality of hearing
constant rejection from employers is devastating and savage to the soul.
However, take comfort in the fact that NO means "not right now." If an
employer is not accepting resumes or hasn't returned your calls, take heart.
Do NOT take it personally. The rejection (not an immediate acceptance by
the employer) is NOT a reflection about you necessarily, but about
mitigating circumstances, such as an uncertain market, diminishing profits,
staff issues, training needs....What lurks behind the closed doors of
employers is the subject of speculation for many downhearted job hunters.
Even though jobs are imminently impermanent, layoffs and unemployment
are TEMPORARY to a wide extent. Witness the egregious Great Depression
period of American history. Many entrepreneurs emerged from the economic
rubble and likewise prosperous individuals with flourishing businesses.
Remember: over 90% of employment in North American originates from
small and medium business.
If your period of employment is lingering and your patience is waning, why
not offer your value-added talents via a small business?
Building self esteem will eventually lead to self- improvement, if we start to
become responsible for who we are, what we have and what we do. It’s like
a flame that should gradually spread like a brush fire from inside and out.
When we develop self esteem, we take control of our mission, values and
discipline.
Self-esteem results in self-improvement, true assessment, and
determination.
So how do you start to build self esteem? Be appreciative of what you have
now, whether it's healthy relationships, a healthy body or otherwise.
Never miss an opportunity to compliment. French writer Victor Hugo deftly

7. observes: "A compliment is something like a kiss through a veil."
Put away the stress of unemployment just for a short moment and imagine
the life you want, not primarily the employment. Answers will emerge....
Now that you’ve repaired your self-esteem, let’s look at what actually
CREATES job openings. I believe there isn’t sufficient enough information
and what must precede a job opening.
So first things first...
What creates job openings?
Most job seekers go about their job search the wrong way:
No plan, no deadline and no idea about what they want to pursue, insofar as
a job title or job target. And they wait until a job advertisement appears...
And they wait for a response from employers.....
Instead of taking the passive approach (often electronic, without
imagination) that yields disappointing results, more often than not, let's look
at what creates job openings, even in a tight economy:
New technology ex: web 2.0, including social media is exploding AND
people are getting social media jobs. Just today, one of my Twitter followers
posted an article about how a husband found his wife a job on Twitter.
Another example is a campaign, particularly political. Information using new
technology can make or break individuals’ reputations, which are now
created online.
Consumers demanding new services and products ex: on demand
services such as mobile marketing and advertising
Reorganization, merges or buyouts of companies ex: automotive industry
New markets ex: online shopping (Remember when you had little trust in
clicking your mouse and purchasing a product or service?) Consumer trust is
building
New legislation ex: health and safety; environmental needs; recruitment
Social trends ex: employers and recruiters are using more social
networking web sites to hire and screen job candidates
Retirement ex: It is estimated that 65 million North Americans will retire in

8. 5 years!
New management ex: in with the old, out with the new
When job searching, think of companies that are expanding, enjoying new
growth or experiencing the above factors.
No matter how the economy is performing, most companies experience at
least a 20-25% turnover of employees every year.
That translates into opportunity for you. Instead of looking for employers,
think of what YOU offer and how you can respond to the above factors in job
creation.
JOB TIP # 1: SET GOALS
Beware of the failure syndrome which frequently affects people's job search.
Set 1 realistic goal to move forward.
Devote TIME and "do the work" to GET work, such as researching employers
thoroughly before applying and accepting an interview. (You would be
surprised how many job candidates attend an interview with "a blind eye.")
JOB TIP #2: competitive intelligence
Want to really "wow" the interviewer?
You've heard of intelligence. In the post-911 world, it can mean pre-
information, the kind that law enforcement professionals use to stay ahead
of imminent criminal activity. (In my hometown of Toronto, the police force
used this kind of intelligence to uncover information during the G 20
conference). Military personnel use intelligence for similar reasons.
In the job search, using competitive intelligence is just as valuable
information to demonstrate to potential employers that you have foresight
about their product, service and company.
Let's suppose that you're applying for a position at a top retailer. You find
yourself on an interview panel, and the inevitable question is posed by the
interviewer:"WHY do you want to work for OUR company?" In your mind,
you try to compose yourself in the heat of fire AND compose a response that
represents competitive intelligence.

9. Whether you are crafting a "sales letter," cover letter or are promoting your
USP (unique sales points) during an interview, find out essential points about
your desirable company or business such as:
-competitors and their distinguishing features, products and services
-competitors' strengths and weaknesses (For example, if you are seeking a
position in retail, be a sleuth and visit the retailer and evaluate what they're
doing and not so well. This is not unlike a "mystery shopper." In military
terms, it's doing a "recce," by paying a visit to the site).
-preliminary research on the competitor. Tell your desirable employer what
YOU can offer and how you would improve upon what the competitors are
doing
-present these findings briefly during an interview
If you take this approach, employers will take you seriously as a candidate.
Even better, you will hold enough sway for employers to evaluate you or
advance to the second round of interviews.
Use competitive intelligence to your advantage and slay your competitors!
JOB TIP # 3: What makes you unique?
Earlier this year, I attended a customer service seminar. The theme of the
seminar was customer service excellence. The competent
facilitator observed, "customer service is the NEW marketing." So true!
In the competitive workforce, customer service and the NEW kind of
networking go hand and hand. Here's where YOU come in as the job seeker.
To achieve success in your job search, know your USP (unique sales
points) BEFORE you apply for your desirable position.
Here's how the content of the customer service seminar can elevate YOUR
USP:
Measure your "quality service" in a current or past job. Start with a
benchmark. What do YOU want to achieve in your next position?
Communicate to your potential employer that you have a benchmark for
standards.
For example, the Four Seasons hotel, a prominent employer in the
hospitality industry, requires job candidates to pass 4 interviews.
Model others' successes to identify your USP. LL Bean, an online/catalogue
retailer in America won the "best customer service" award in 2009. Tony

10. Hsieh, the highly successful owner of http://www.zappos.com/, remarked
that the "telephone is one of the best branding devices." His recipe of
success?
Deliver WOW through service. You can do the same with a potential
employer.
Embrace and drive change. Show employers that because of your USP, you
can do this.
I am a self-confessed news aficionado. I once saw a documentary on CBC
news (www.cbc.ca) on how employers in the knowledge economy are
looking for THINKERS. Before your next interview, be polished and show
poise. Employers WILL take notice. Demonstrate that you ARE a thinker in
the following ways:
 How you will fit into the employer’s “corporate culture.” For example,
look up a company’s FACEBOOK business or fan page and look for any
photos. Evaluate the corporate culture, based on the photos you see.
 How you can solve a company’s problems.
 How you can improve a company’s existing service, product or
contribute to their mission statement, if they are in the non-profit
sector.
 How you can bring the employers more customers.
The new currency, reported CBC news (Canada), is IDEAS. Go out and
explore resources to develop your USP. I have many suggestions.
Job tip #4: How to recover from a layoff: Recovery
= resilience (This post has been featuredon www.secretsofthejobhunt.com)
The following article was inspired by the 33 rescued Chilean miners. How
their experience captivated the world when they emerged from the ground in
Chile! Their experience resonated resilience. This word resilience is so
integral to the recovery from a troubling
Back in September 2010, I posted an article, "Facing a layoff: 10 ways on
how to deal with the signs," part I. It has appeared on many sites, such
as www.careerealism.com in North America, all the way to Australia on
www.careercommuniqueradio.com

11. Here's the sequel.
Recently, I started to work with a new clientele-unemployed adults who are
recovering from severe and persistent mental illnesses. My next job search
tip originated from researcher Marsha M. Linehan, who authored the book,
The Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills workbook for bipolar disorder: Using
DBT to regain control of your emotions and your life. Perhaps you are
questioning why I am referring to bipolar disorder or DBT in this report! In
my layoff article, I commented that "Layoffs hit our psychological jugular (I
just created the term in this context). Emotions run awry." If you are laid
off, there are some raw emotions involved, UNLESS you focus on recovery
from a layoff.”
Marsha Linehan refers to a DBT skill called "distress tolerance skills."
These are skills that "get you through a crisis situation without engaging in
self-destructive behaviours that likely would make the situation worse for
you." Let's face it, if you have been laid off for some time, it is far easier,
especially in a crisis, to opt for negative behaviours that may decimate your
confidence and delay your recovery from a layoff.
I have adapted RESISTT to a successful job search:
Reframe- instead of concentrating on what things have gone wrong in your
job search, think of what has gone right. For example, reframing the layoff
experience could be something like," I honestly disliked my last job anyway.
If I had stayed for another year, I would have hit rock bottom. The layoff
opened the door to improving my chances of breaking into a new career.
The layoff wasn't as traumatic as I once thought!"
Mindfully Engage in an activity-Many activities produce better results in a
job search. These are activities that engage your mind. The possibilities are
endless....
Do something for someone else- Take a break from your job search. Help
someone else who is struggling or volunteer your time or expertise.
Volunteerism will sharpen your existing skills and employers will take notice
on your revised résumé. I emphasized the importance of volunteerism in
my article, “How one activity can propel your job search.”

12. Intense sensations. In a physical sense, this refers to extreme conditions,
such as taking a hot bath or a cold shower. In another context, if a sensation
is coming from inside you that could improve your job search, explore that
sensation. Perhaps it is a sensation from your abdomen, (which explains our
expression, “I could feel it in my gut.....”). That is an energy point in your
body which the Chinese call meridians. How many times has your
own intuition guided your decisions? Don't discount intuition). It could be
the breakthrough in your job search. For more on the power of intuition,
review my article at http://ning.it/cK4xWu
Shut it out-A drawn out job search is more likely to plague the mind with
negative thoughts. See the "reframe" reference above. The negative words
associated with a layoff could fill this page. Shut them out of your mind,
even temporarily.
Think neutral thoughts- Maybe you've sent out X number of applications
and have not received an interview invitation yet. Think neutrally. The hiring
could be stalled or the employer may be on the brink of landing a lucrative
contract, which could result in bringing in your expertise. (Remember, you
will achieve better results if you brand yourself as a solution-builder with
an employer, rather than a "generic" job seeker).
Take a break. Get off the electronic job board highway. Take a detour. Job
boards only yield a 1-3% success rate. Do something for yourself. Go to the
gym (the best anti-depressant!), have a coffee with a friend, spend time
with your pet or just do what it takes to take your mind.
Do something completely different from job searching.
Try the RESISTT technique and give it ample time to bolster your job
search.
Job search tip#5: job search tips from HIRED TV
hosts
I caught a segment from the CBS Saturday early morning show
(www.cbsnews.com/saturday) on job searching. Three people from Hired TV

13. offered these nuggets of information for the younger crowd, just graduating
from college or university.
-To quote one of the HIRED TV hosts, the "résumé is dead." Make your
résumé a living document (as opposed to an obituary) and embrace
technology. Be aware of technology such as social media to create an online
résumé. Create a Facebook or Linkedin profile. Once you do this, you must
realize that your online identity may be scrutinized by employers.
"Everything is being recorded." Make sure you have a professional image on
the internet. Employers and recruiters are searching for your name.
-When being interviewed by employers, "focus on the now and the future,"
not the past. Employers are curious about what you value you can add to
their business or company in the present times, and certainly the future too!
There are literally businesses who cannot confirm if they will still be in
business the next fiscal year.
-When preparing for the interview, come up with 3 adjectives to describe
yourself. Offer concrete examples of how you exhibit those adjectives.
-Finally, when hired, "create a strong presence in the company."
job search tip #6 Beware of "loved ones'
advice" for your next job choice
"Father knows best." Have you heard that term? Wasn't that a TV show in America
back in the 50's? (I don’t want to date myself....) In any case, my dear father
actually steered me AWAY from a career choice. He only wished good fortune with
his daughter so that she wouldn't have to "starve" on the meagre salary of a radio
broadcaster...However, it resulted in my quantum career leap to career
coach/counsellor/ job search specialist/educator.
I fared pretty well in radio broadcasting, but what if your loved ones insist on
making a career choice that can be ill-fated?
My client "Mark" mentioned that his father wanted him to study material so that he
could launch a career in insurance sales. Before you start to fire up the torpedoes, I
am not undermining the importance of sales. Far from it. The mark of an effective
job search should resemble a sales and marketing campaign on your part. My
cherished dad has been a salesman for 50 years and another relative has enjoyed
numerous successes in that field. I too have relied on sales to make a "quick"
income before and after teachers college. (Time for true confessions. I sold
Electrolux vacuum cleaners WHILE attending teaching training! And yes, I did
well.....!!)

14. Back to my client Mark. He asked my advice about starting a sales career.
I inquired if this career was a suitable fit with his existing talents and qualifications.
(You may notice that I do not include skills as a primary determinant of a
career fit). Mark would have to deal with the realities of sales: dealing with
objections, and having to "close the sale." Oh, and in this case, he would end up
with a commission-based income.
In addition to his fragile level of self-confidence, Mark has been recovering from
illnesses in the past years which have led to a few job dismissals. Ultimately, Mark
decided that this was not the course of action.
We then proceeded to interview specialist Carole Martin, www.carolemartin, (no
relation), who had an exercise called "digging for gold" in job postings. Essentially,
this meant deciphering a job posting three times. This exercise was invaluable in
determining what jobs Mark would apply to.
With the exclusion of my father, be weary of loved ones who claim that they have
expert career advice. At the end of the day, you are the master of your own
destiny.
Job search tip #7: Don't let the F word
interfere with your job search
The following job search tip is quicker than usual.
Don't allow the "F" word to interfere with your job search.
Job searches remain considerably long (currently 33 weeks in the United States for
example). So, time is of the essence to land a job amid the sea of competition
(roughly 1 job seeker in the U.S. competes against 5 others).
Failure often derails a job search UNLESS you take steps to prevent it.
What are two quick remedies?
1. Make the effort to regularly evaluate the success of your job search. That
doesn't mean settling for the passive route of "blasting" your résumé to numerous
job boards. It means carrying out a sales/marketing plan to get RESULTS. Calculate
how many of your job activities produced a response (perhaps even a phone call)
from a potential employer in a month. Or an interview offer. Imagine!

15. 2. Make your time valuable. In a previous post, the Wall Street Journal published
a study that indicated Americans only spend 40 minutes in a daily job search versus
3 hours and 20 minutes of watching TV!
Replace failure (self-perception) with ACTION and achieve results exponentially in
your job search! To add another perspective of failure, a quotation from American
novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald comes to mind: “Never confuse a single defeat with a
final defeat.”
job tip # 8: What diets and networking have in
common
My colleague and fellow Canadian John-Paul (J.P.) Hatala, is undeniably an
expert in social networking. We have attended and presented at major career
conferences over the years. "JP" and I have both posted counselling articles on the
prestigious counselling site, http://www.contactpoint.ca/ And might I add that J.P.
and met at a career conference years ago, in the midst of a networking event. We
have connected online and offline ever since!
J.P. drew a comparison between dieting and networking. Both profess to offer quick
results (well, the "quick" diet web sites that permeate the internet). How do they
relate to a successful job search?
Both need time investments for best results.
Effective networking takes time and effort. Building a network of contacts doesn't
happen overnight, but when properly applied to a job search, it's time well
invested.
job search tip # 9: The 3 C's of interviewing
Career expert J. T. O'Donnell, founder of http://www.careerealism.com/, on
whose site I am proud to be an "approved career expert," published an article
earlier this year on “the power of 3's.”
Here is a 3 part recipe for interview preparation:
1. Confidence- This is the FIRST thing that any competent interviewer seeks in the
job candidate. Exude confidence (not over confidence) and you will walk a mile in
your interview.
2. Communication- Experts will agree that this is the deal breaker about being the

16. successful candidate. A credentialed career specialist will coach you before the
interview and help you get hired. Hiring someone for their expertise is a worthy
investment. If you want to know more, drop me a line at
http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com/
3. Content- Rehearse mini stories that do not exceed 2 minutes. Statistics show
that interviewers' attention spans drop substantially after one minute. Use
strategies such as STAR (situation, task, action, result) or PULL (using content
based on your paid experience, unpaid experience, such as volunteering, learning
experiences and life experiences) to ace the interview.
Job search tip#10: Use the "BOTH/AND
APPROACH"
If you are a MID-CAREER job seeker, I hope this next tip will rouse your curiousity.
Use the "BOTH/AND APPROACH" during your job search.
Rather than choosing a job or career that is totally removed from your past career
or job, combine that with an untapped skill set in a new position. This avoids the
possibility of you’re being turned down for a specific position, so that you can "woo"
the employer by showing your value. Send an employer a job proposal with the
"BOTH/AND APPROACH." (If you are unfamiliar with the purpose of a job proposal,
email me via http://www.careercoachingbyphone.com and I will send you
information on this highly effective technique that taps into the hidden job
market).
Think of what you could combine (sales, customer service, administration, HR
expertise...the possibilities are endless!) with a skill set that you've been hoping to
use or that the EMPLOYER can use. This will depend on the company's needs.
For example, I used it long ago in the RADIO business. I combined my on-air
expertise with doing part-time sales in an untapped market (American station in a
Canadian city). The radio owners reaped the benefits and I used both skill sets!
This was as the result of using the “both/and approach” method of job seeking.
job search tip #11: Beyond transferable skills,
what are your MOTIVATED skills?
Skills do not equate with career/job satisfaction. I will continue to reiterate this.
Unfortunately, there tends to be too much emphasis on skills (whether they are
transferable are not), rather than on interests, values and motivators.

17. Let's go one step further in energizing your job search with MOTIVATING skills. I've
seen a couple of articles in the past. One included motivated skills that identified
proficiency and interest levels, based on a range of skills. The other article, written
by Rebecca Hanson of http://www.teleclassinternational.com/ (Rebecca, I've lost
that brilliant document!), focused on the same topic and allow you to create a
career profile.
You can then rate these MOTIVATED skills, based on your interest or competency.
After you review them, score the motivated skills based on:
"enjoy USING very much"
-"like USING"
-"prefer NOT to use"
-"strongly dislike using"
Do you notice the language? These skills are ones that appeal to you, not the ones
that you may possess, but don't necessarily want to employ in your next job.
Here's the list though not an exhaustive one) of MOTIVATED skills:
-speaking before groups
-generating ideas
-initiating change
-using intuition
-producing events
-creating images
-problem solving*** (Every job vacancy has a problem to solve)
-mediating
-writing
-brainstorming
-preparing food
-co-ordinating
-designing
-evaluating
-organizing
-supervising
-working outdoors
-hand dexterity
-building
-performing
-budgeting
-promoting

18. Patterns may emerge, while you review the list. Review the results with a career
professional. Identifying your motivating skills is germane to your personal
career/job profile.
Take the time to know what motivates you BEFORE proceeding with your job
search. Otherwise, you may end up with dissatisfactory results. If you are still
puzzled about what motivates you, check out my article, “I’ve got a passion for
nothing,” http://t.co/Vqu8eSV
job search tip #12: Be a better interviewee-
study NLP
When you think of the word interview, what comes to mind? Nerves? Sweaty
palms? Your heart beating out of control? Certainly these are physical reactions to
the anticipation of a forthcoming interview. What about the mental aspect of
preparing for an interview?
If you want to be a better interviewer, change the programming of your mind by
studying NLP or neuro linguistic programming.
According to Wikapedia: The co-founders, Richard Bandler and linguist John
Grinder "coined the title to denote their belief in a connection between neurological
processes ('neuro'), language ('linguistic') and behavioural patterns that have
been learned through experience ('programming') and that can be organized to
achieve specific goals in life."
What does this mean if you are conducting an interview? Pay attention to the
language you use and your behaviour. Likewise, be mindful of the language the
interviewer uses. Quite often, the wording of the interviewing questions is a
benchmark to rate your reasoning, logic, thought patterns and communication. It is
just as important to observe the interviewer's behaviour, as in body language.
(Remember that roughly 92% of our communication originates from body
language. Interviewers will also be evaluating YOUR body language).
Outside of a therapeutic approach, NLP is used for "interpersonal communications
and persuasion including business communication, sales, and interpersonal
influence. Other applications include negotiation." source: Wikapedia. Do you
notice something? All of these functions apply to interviewing.
For example: interviewing= business communication
In a word, you are communicating value to a potential employer
persuasion= communicating your personal brand and value to a potential

19. employer. Sales, in effect. And a good interviewee will adopt the ABC tactic in an
interview. Always be closing!
negotiation= coming to an agreement with the interviewer about why you are the
ideal candidate and why you ought to be compensated accordingly. SALARY
negotiation is a component of the interviewing process. Use the ABC tactic to
optimize your negotiations with an employer. ABC=always be closing.....YOU as
the product! Your personal brand! Career specialist J.T. O’Donnell summed up
the objective of an interview by stating “interviews are a performance opportunity.”
job search tip #13: to be "stuck" in a job
search doesn't mean "give up"
With over 13 years of experience in helping unemployed individuals, I have heard
this refrain repeatedly: "I've done everything in my job search," Or "I'm stuck."
There is a difference between being "stuck," which really means you may feel
powerless. Quite often, job seekers aren't necessarily "stuck," but "stalled” instead.
The difference between the two words, is that in the first case, job seekers give up
too soon in their pursuit of a job. This happens for different reasons: no plan, no
targets, no goals, no employers actually hiring in that sector and inefficient time
devoted to an "active" not passive (as in job searching exclusively by electronic
means) job search. Passive job searches involve no creativity or imagination-we're
talking about an exclusively electronic approach or "blasting" résumés shot gun
style. What is the result? Job seekers give up.
If you feel that your job search is “stalled,” then take heart. There is a silver lining
in the cloud. You can refresh your job search strategy and be in the driver's seat.
How about setting a goal to attend one community event this week to make
contacts? If the phone is NOT ringing with job offers, only stop to take a pause and
recharge your job search. It will make all the difference in your results.
job tip # 14: Technique to KEEP a job-be an
intrepreneur
I am ALWAYS be searching for ways on how job seekers can stand apart in a tough
economy, I came upon an ingenious tip from career specialist Jullien Gordon.
The tip applies to those who are already fortunate enough to be employed.
You probably know what it means to be an entrepreneur? Well, to add value to your
existing employer, be an “intrepeneur.” In the simplest sense, this means taking
on the role of being entrepreneurial inside a company. What a novel ideal Jullien!

20. This seems to be a way of decreasing the likelihood of being "underemployed,"
versus "unemployed."
I invite you to check out Jullien’s site, http://www.careerchangechallenge.com/
Here's to YOUR career entrepreneurial and intrepreneurial success.
job search tip #15: No need for an extreme
makeover
American journalist Jane Pauley appeared on the Today show
(www.todayshow.com) recently to feature her latest project, "Find your calling."
Her project is dedicated to individuals who are 50+ and have found their (true)
"calling in life."
Finding your calling could represent a blueprint for your next job or career. Pauley
suggests that individuals "give back skills" that they already have. In other words,
you don't necessarily have to re-train or re-qualify for your next job or career. This
means that individuals can re-invent themselves without having to do an "extreme
makeover." Jane’s idea seems to resemble my “both/and approach job search
tip #10.
Take a free moment to think about skills that you can give BACK to a potential
employer or company. This could be the springboard for a fullfilling job or career in
the future!
Job search TIP # 16: "SNAP selling" can help
your job search
A few months ago, I received a webinar description about "fresh stategies to
increase cold calling success." The author, Jill Konrath, has written a book called
Snap Selling. The strategies definitely apply to a creative and successful job search.
Cold calling is the MOST effective way of getting a job lead and tapping into
the hidden job market. Here are Jill Konrath's tips, which you can use in your job
search:
1. Craft your messages that cannot be ignored. For example, your personal
brand, online profile or achievements which have received attention, such as
published blog articles, awards or promotions in your designated industry.
2. Create urgency around setting up a meeting with you. The urgency message is

21. one of the reasons why TV infomercials do incredibly well. Once you watch an
infomercial, the product or service should be so enticing to buy that an “urgent
message” appears on the TV screen. You guessed it! The message entices you to
pick up the phone and call 1-866------ CALL NOW! The same thing applies to
enticing employers. Introduce sales and marketing techniques into your job
search. I always endorse a SALES letter whenever possible, to attract employers'
interest.
3. Pique curiosity about your product or service. Creativity and ingenuity are
paramount in standing apart in your job search. My ebook How to use
social media in your job search, gives ample examples about being
unconventional in your job search. Why settle for the norm when you can be unique
and sell your USP (unique selling points) to get hired. In the past, when I had
"leaner" times in university, I earned quick income by selling some of the most
difficult products. (I already mentioned vacuums earlier, but I also sold make-
your-own-pop machines). The more you apply unconventional methods in your job
search, the more you will be noticed. Dare to be different in attracting potential
employers.
4. Position yourself as an invaluable resource. Think of your USP, your unique
SALES or SELLING POINTS that you can SELL as an invaluable resource to persuade
employers that you are the quintessential NEW HIRE they must have! Better yet,
appeal to employers’ “one track minds.” If you can make or save an employer
money, or even save time, you will be the darling heart of an employer. EVERY
job vacancy is an opportunity to solve a problem.
I’ve said it before and I’ll repeat: EFFECTIVE job searching is ALL sales and
marketing.
Job search tip#17: How to conquer the fear of
the telephone in your job search and the
underwear technique
Are you afraid of using the telephone in your job search? Use the "strip
'em down to their underwear technique!" You may laugh, but it works!
Co-incidentally, I found this technique in a job search book written in 1980’s,
but I’ll be darned if I can recall the title! Some time ago, when I finished my
radio broadcasting career, I continued to receive public speaking requests,
and used the "underwear technique." It works equally well for speaking on
the telephone to strangers and to public speaking. Let me elaborate.

22. During my nine and a half year stint at a Canadian military base, I used the
"underwear technique" to deliver briefings for deploying military personnel.
On some occasions, I spoke in front of 200 military members at a time and
used to "quake in my boots" (pun intended) at the beginning of the
briefings.
The underwear technique works exponentially for job searching, especially
when you are using the telephone. You visualize an image like someone in
his/her underwear, which reduces your anxiety about calling someone in the
first place.
It is simply astounding how many people fear the use of the telephone
in the so-called "information age." In fact, one colleague admitted recently
that his daughter who was attending college, not only had a morbid fear of
the telephone, but patently refused to engage in networking. Two grave
mistakes in job searching! Fortunately, she must have received "advice" or
at least urging from her father, my colleague, to change her job search
strategy. The telephone landed her an interview!
Email, and increasingly, social media, remain as our preferred means of
communication, but they pale in comparison to using the telephone. Use it
strategically and your job search will pay off in dividends for reaching
decision makers, hiring managers and influential people in your job search.
P.S. No sooner did I finish this post when NBC nightly news in America posted
this news piece on Twitter, entitled, "Txt 2 much." According to a survey, NBC
reported that U.S. teens send 50 texts daily and that "girls between 14-17 send
100 or more," believing that "email is too formal." http://bit.ly/alPCuV
P.S.S. The telephone seemed to be a hot topic the day that I originally wrote this!
Here's what http://www.careerbuilder.ca/ emailed me:
"CareerBuilder.ca has launched a new free "Jobs" iPhone application! This new app
gives you the ability to search and apply for new jobs from virtually anywhere. With
the iPhone's built-in geolocation technology, you can search for jobs in your area
with a simple keyword search and apply directly from your iPhone!"
So my dear job seekers, that takes care of my “16 job search tips that knock ‘em
out of the park!”
Now, as a BONUS, I’d like to share with you some of my most popular posts that
generated responses.

23. T.A.P. Q#494 – Getting Feedback from the
Interviewer-careerealism.com
(This question was featured on the Twitter Ask Project on
www.careerealism.com in June 2010)
Dear Experts,
I had a series of interviews last week with a few different companies. I don’t
think any of the interviews will lead to any job offers but I am curious how I
presented myself when I met each hiring manager.
Is there a proper process for obtaining feedback on my interview skills from
the interviewer?
My response to the www.careerealism.com question:
Dear interviewee:
I cannot recall a "proper process," however, there is etiquette, to some
extent, in asking feedback from interviewers.
Keep in mind:
-with the risk of reprisal and possible risks of libel cases, if you contest their
feedback, in extreme circumstances, (we do live in a society that is litigious
in nature, unfortunately), interviewers may not be forthcoming
-interviewers may not be keen about disclosing how you "performed" or
didn't perform during the interview, because of the above reasons
That said, reaffirm your enthusiasm about working for the company or in the
designated industry and the reasons why you want to work for them. Then
ask tactfully, and with poise, how you desire to improve your interviewing
skills in the future. Depending on the context (talking to Human Resources,
who may be more inclined to "go by the book" with procedures), you could
take a risk in asking something like, " I realize that you may not provide a
detailed answer, but it would really benefit my active job search to know
how I can concentrate on being a star candidate the next time around.”
In closing, don't expect a full-fledged, candid answer from interviewers.
Don't mistake my message though. Interviewers have their own criteria and
agenda. For example, they may use the practice of a pseudo interview (see
my previous post on my blog) or may not be enthusiastic about being candid
with a "stranger." When I say that, I mean that employers would rather hire

24. based on the 3 R's: reputation, recommendation and referrals. And I could
show you statistics of how a certain percentage of interviewers are not
qualified to interview in the first place! You have talent! Someone will
discover it in time.
Here’s another Twitter project question that includes of my favourite
subjects- social media or social networking web sites, specifically
www.Linkedin.com
T.A.P. Q#477 – Should I Use LinkedIn
Recommendations on My Resume?
Dear Experts,
I thought of breaking up sections of my resume with brief quotes from
LinkedIn recommendations. Is that corny?
Dear job seeker: Absolutely include them! And it is definitely not a corny
idea, but a savvy one! Employers hire based on the 3 R's: referrals,
reputation and recommendations.
By including LinkedIn recommendations, you are demonstrating many things
to hiring managers and decision makers, who just happen to congregate on
LinkedIn!
1. You exemplify that you are staying current with technology by using social
media
2. You show self-confidence by displaying your recommendations on
LinkedIn, which cannot be fabricated and must be sent by the person giving
your recommendation, unlike trying to falsify résumé information.
3. Showing off your Linkedin recommendations on your resume becomes a
"living résumé," on the internet, as opposed to a paper résumé
4. Your LI recommendations are more likely to hold more sway than
a regular, written or verbal recommendation, because the employer can see
that you have (presumably by joining Linkedin) a well-developed network of
contacts in your industry. It can be the icing on the cake or "closing the
sale" about you (see the 1st paragraph).
Develop your brand and align that brand with recommendations that carry
influence in your career or job search.

25. body language during interviews
Recently, I viewed a segment on NBC's Today show with body language
expert Janine Driver. Her book, You say more than you think, is a New
York Times best seller.
Sometimes we take for granted the nuances of a job search, such as body
language during an interview.
On the Today Show, Driver examined what is a person's "baseline," or
normal body language, and observed that negative body language can
instantly kill your chances of being hired during an interview.
Don't despair though. Driver offers "seven second fixes." In the case of a job
interview, Janine strongly recommends "open palms" to get you hired. Here
are some faux pas to avoid:
-dominating handshakes
-sitting directly across from the interviewer
-shaking hands with an upper hand over the interviewer's
To find out more about appropriate body language, check out Al Roker of
NBC and Janine Driver on http://www.youtube.com/
Want to learn an assertive interview question?
Interviewing tip of the day:
ABC= always be closing during the interview.
Avoid vague statements that will increase your chances of being passed
over, such as "I'm very interested" or "This position sounds interesting."
Go for the gold!
Ask, "May I have the position please?" Richard Bolles, author of the best
selling career book of all time, What color is your parachute? used a similar
phrase in a recent blog post.
You have once last chance to cross the finish line at the end of the interview.
T.A.P. Q#433 – How Do I Answer Salary
Interview Questions?
Dear Experts,
What advice do you have when an interviewer ask what your current salary

26. is? Do you answer? Is it better to discuss that topic later?
Dear interviewee,
Yes, it is best to discuss that topic later, almost always.
The general rule is the person who discusses salary first loses. What does
that mean? Do not be the first to address this issue, no matter how
important. You don't want to be ruled out of the hiring equation straight
away.
There are also some salary strategies to elevate your chances of being hired.
If the employer insists on getting a figure, here are three sure fire
strategies:
1. Give the employer a salary range. For resources, go to
http://www.monster.com/ (salary centre), or the salary wizard website, to
identify the salary range according to your desired job title or industry. In
Canada, check out Pay scale's "salary calculator."
2. Use the deferral strategy. This allows you to "buy time" and ask questions
and probe as to what salary may be appropriate to your experience, skills
and background.
3. If pressed for an answer, do the counter balance technique. Wait for the
employer's reply. PAUSE for a few seconds. This may sound corny, but I
once learned that the hesitation "hmmmm" can actually increase your
chances of getting a hired salary.
4. If the employer doesn't want to negotiate beyond your desired salary,
negotiate tangible or intangible benefits, such as an extra week of salary, a
company car, a higher training budget, private office, etc. So if you not
prepared to accept less than $40,000 for example, you may want to accept
that figure, on condition that you have an extra week of salary or the
opportunity to work at home once at week.
Pan for gold in your job search
I came across some notes from a sales course that I took a few years back.
Sales/marketing and the job search have a natural commonality.
Remember in your history class when you heard about the Klondike days?
Searching for gold? Same principle about "panning for gold" and job
searching.

27. Spend 20% of your time prospecting. That means looking at potential
employers. Mark Granovetter of Harvard University notes that "43 percent
of unadvertised positions are created for applicants, often at the time
of the interview." Here's a simple way to "pan for gold" in your job
search:
Look up an occupational list containing in a main government directory.
The occupational outlook directory, www.bls.gov.oco/, is revised every two
years and contains job search tips and keyword searches. A Canadian
version of an occupational directory can be found on
http://www.workingincanada.ca
In the grand scheme of things, sales is an inevitable part of the job
search, so transitioning from thinking that from job seeker to thinking like a
consultant represents a mind shift, but it is imperative.
Top 5 reasons how sales and job searches are the same:
1. Find the client. Find the potential/desirable employer.
2. Meet the client. Set up a meeting with an employer. Build rapport.
3. Help the client buy a product or service. Present yourself during an
interview.
4. Make the sale. ABC= always be closing during the interview about you.
5. Find and answer objectives. Yes, write down any objections that the
interview may have about you. Then you'll be dually prepared.
The "law of 6" in sales states that customers don't have more than six
objections to purchasing most products or services. Before interviewing,
prepare for any misgivings, doubts or objections the employer may have
about you. Think if 6 possible objections that an employer may have about
you. This is essential when you are changing careers and don't have the
"relevant" industry experience, a new graduate or you have been out of the
job market for a lengthy period of time.
I have dealt with clients who have experienced all of the above situations,
and after they hired me for career coaching, they were successful in landing
meaningful employment.

28. a goldmine of information for researching
employers
For job seekers who want to demonstrate their superlative research skills,
jigsaw.com is an absolute goldmine of information.
Jigsaw.com has been featured on the Wall Street Journal, CNN and the
New York times, to name a few.
Yes, you CAN look for local companies on jigsaw.com
If you are looking for a comprehensive business directory, jigsaw.com will
give you a competitive edge:
1. Browse over 16 million business contacts and 3 million company records.
2. Download company data.
Let’s say you wanted to do an “advanced search” on a company.
Step 1: Choose a job title and/or company
Step 2: Choose a level, whether it’s staff or management.
Step 3: Select a department. Choose country, industry and number of
employees.
Let’s say that you just want to have a general idea about employers,
whether you’re relocating or contemplating career change. Simply click onto
“Browse” and view the companies. Use jigsaw.com to uncover leads and tap
into the hidden job market.
Preparing to write a cover letter or prepare for an interview? An even more
proactive stance for job seekers is to take advantage of the free “download
company data.” It’s like company blueprint, complete with a list of contacts,
telephone numbers and job titles. What a goldmine of information!
Ever tried to write a customized, sales or cover letter without getting the key
contacts? No more excuses with the free download company data feature.
The real goldmine is the free "download" of company data. For example,
you can type in an employer, and see comprehensive information about a
company. I did so yesterday, and found a local, municipal employer,
complete with job titles, phone number extension and email.I was
flabbergasted to know that there were only 1100 employees working for the
city of Kingston! 85 people work in the Human Resources department alone!

29. Jigsaw.com can give job candidates a competitive edge before an interview.
career change? Forget the resume as the 1st
step to job search
In October 2009, Meghan M. Biro wrote a very powerful article on
www.careerealism.com about career change entitled "Career change?
"Forget resume...focus on re-writing YOU.” Some eminently true
observations by Meghan:
"Many people begin job searches and career transitions by rewriting their
resumes. Resumes are necessary and a very important step, but they are
not always sufficient. Starting with a resume is really starting in the
middle of the process. There’s an alternative place to begin with a self-
assessment.”
Meghan aligns the self-assessment with a journey:
"Four factors to take into account when embarking on self-assessment are
your Personality, Interests, Skills and Values."
4 rules of networking
If you want to achieve any success in finding a job, you'll know that most
jobs are rarely or never advertised. This is what is otherwise known as the
elusive hidden job market.
Linda Dessau, former career and life coach, and now a teleseminar leader,
is among the many helping professionals who spreads the word about the
essential activity of networking.....but wait, with perhaps a different twist.
Now I'm not going to give you a shameless pitch for talking to strangers
necessarily.............In a moment, I will give you the key ingredient about
networking that even most career professionals may not tell you.
Linda's 4 rules:
1. Be visible -for attacting potential employers, that means getting out
there.
Be visible online (sign up for FREE social networking accounts such as twitter
and linkedin.com) and OFFLINE.
If you are new to a community with no contacts (example, a military

30. spouse), find out where community meetings are held about whatever issue.
Does it really matter at the beginning?
Just reach out and meet people. If you can't find a meeting that interests
you, start up local meetings. Go to meetup.com, which is the largest web
site of its kind and free.
2. Be positive
Unemployment is TEMPORARY in 95% of cases. The length on your
employment depends on certain factors. (Email me and I will help you with
this).
3. Help out. Networking is NOT begging for a job or for job leads. It's
helping OTHER people. Even something as simple as information about an
industry. As job search expert Kevin Donlin suggests, send an employer a
report about his/her industry.
Helping out may also mean volunteering. If you are out of work for months
now, maybe it's time to think about volunteering. This means being
productive and not being inactive.
4. Educate
That means when you are networking, make yourself interesting. Ask
questions about people. Get familiar with what's going on in the community.
Networking is giving back.
Did you see which point was the most important?
If you guessed rule number 3, you're right!
Be gutsy and use the # 1 job search technique
that is proven
A hot, humid summer day in our area, but that didn't deter one determined
job seeker.
We were just finishing our pops in a local restaurant, when a young man,
clad in shorts and tattoos, asked to speak to the manager. (She was actually
the co-owner). Unusual?
It was Sunday afternoon.
The co-owner was quick to accept his resume on the spot. He was applying

31. for a cooking position. I overhead him tell her where he worked previously.
His approach was a little meek and definitely weak, BUT he used the
number one technique to get a job.
Cold-calling. It is proven to work. You are actually doing the employer a
favour.
No need to advertise.
No need to go through up to 500 résumés to screen job candidates, if the
job is advertised.
Research says that cold calling has a 92% success rate of getting a
job. Passive job searching does not work. (Searching exclusively online
does not a job search make!)
The psychological trigger in your cover letter
Employers are bombarded with the same haggard cover letter formats.
Marketing experts such as Yanik Silver will tell you that a "psychological
trigger" leads to sales. In this case, the sale is YOU. You are the product.
Your USP (unique selling points), talents, qualifications and reputation.
Think of why you were hired in your last job. (No, being the most qualified
doesn't get you hired....necessarily).
One keyword in the psychological trigger of making any sale (potential
employers) means that you need to convince them to hire you as a stranger.
(After all, that is the exact opposite hiring method that most employers have
at companies).
The word “because” triggers a psychological response.
In your cover letter, use this formula:
Make your claim (your are the best person to hire to solve a problem).
Or make an special offer (refer back to your USP).
Think of an honest reason why they would hire you (as the stranger, outside
of the hiring manager's comfort zone, who usually prefers to hire otherwise).
State sincerely why you are applying to that company or organization.
Because you:

32. had a track record of making or saving money
improved something
increased efficiency
solved a problem
This "psychological trigger" (saying because) has been proven to increase
sales.
Use the F word when job searching
A client was preparing to meet a potential employer in her designated field.
I prepared her on how to conduct an informational interview and an on-the-
spot mini-interview (a cold call resulted in my first teaching job years ago).
When meeting with potential employers, especially in your field, say
something like this:
I'm (name) and I am new in the area. I'm just looking for information. My
specialization is:_____ What would you recommend for someone who is new
to ___(community) and is breaking into (field of expertise). I would
appreciate your F- eedback. There's the F word.
Wait for a response. Then ask for 2-3 names to build your network of
contacts.
Human nature. People love to be asked for advice. They also love being
consulted for their expertise.
The client not only received a callback from the contact (after leaving a
voicemail!) AND an offer to meet over his lunch hour. This contact was a
complete stranger.
She's also meeting him a second time.
Use the F word. It works
Strategy # (?): Reinvent the wheel in your job
search
You know me as a career coach who endorses a multiple level method of
job searching.
Truth be known, conventional job searches aren't working any longer with
the same effectiveness.

33. You can reinvent the wheel to stand apart with employers.
If your job search is in dire need of repair (no response from employers, at a
standstill, no new job leads, no interviews on the horizon, etc), it's time to
take action.
1. Seth Godin, marketing expert, who enjoys a following of a quarter
million on the internet recommended this-don't job search! If the income has
dwindled completely, do something to earn money.
2. Ditch the résumé and establish your personal brand with employers.
Your personal brand is why you were hired in your current or last job; what
sets you apart; your USP (unique selling points) to sell to employers; your
qualifications and last but not least, your reputation.
Establish your personal brand with profiles
Google just launched google.com/profiles. You can create a profile to
potential employers and claim your personal brand. It's free from Google!
Do an identify search on your name. Type in your name on Google with
quotation marks and your community. Calculate how many times your name
appears. Then calculate how many times your actual name with your
community appears on the first two pages. William Arruda has a wonderful
free tool to calculate your online identity.
Use linked.com. Invite contacts. Ask 3 of them to write you a
recommendation. Put your linked.com link into your resume. Voilà! An
instant testimonial.
The résumé is too conventional. Reinvent the wheel with your job search.
how to respond to being rejected from a job
posting
For those of you who have felt the "sting" of getting one of those rejections,
which usually take the form of emails (company letters are almost extinct for
this purpose), check out Suzanne Lucas' advice to a job seeker:
www.usanews.com/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2009/2/index.html
My response to the lady who was rejected:
Salient points and savvy advice from Suzanne.
Two points:
1. Don't take this personally.

34. Did you know that 30% of successful job candidates do not last beyond the
typical 90 day probation? The reasons are numerous.
2. If you TRULY want (wanted) this position, why not write a response to the
letter, gently saying to the HR person that if the hired candidate does not
work out, that you would like to be considered? What is the worst that can
happen? State your USP (unique selling points) and your personal brand.
In any business, there is at least a 24% turnover each year.
Keep going forward in your job search.
Torn between two job offers? Decision making
tools
Kevin Donlin, job search and co-founder of the simplejobsearch.com
gave some salient advice to a job seeker (thesimplejobsearch.com. Check
out Kevin's blog). The job seeker was torn between two job offers in two
communities.
On Kevin Donlin's blog, I added my take on deciding between two job offers:
An alternative is SWOT. When making a decision to accept or to not accept a
job offer, keep this in mind:
S=strengths in accepting the position
w= weaknesses in accepting the position ie Will accepting the position propel
your career or set you back? Your core values will assist you with the latter
question.
O= opportunities in accepting the position or working for the company
T= threats, as in uncontrollables i.e short-term contract with little possibility
of renewal
Some of the best (career) decisions one can make occur in moments of
serendipity and we step out of our comfort zone and invite risk into our
lives. We ultimately have choices.
With clients, I also use Cartesian Coordinates, which I learned during my
training with Marcia Bench, founder of the Career Coach institute:
Theorem: What would happen if you did choose to apply for XYZ job or
company.
Converse: What wouldn't happen if you did?
Inverse: What would happen if you didn't?
Non-mirror image reverse: Example: What wouldn't happen if you didn't?

35. Once you use these techniques, do nothing, as Kevin suggested, ruminate
for a while and then evaluate your criteria, consult your inner self (where
solutions lie), decide on the right options and then make your decision.
(Certified in solution-focused interviewing and counselling, I believe that
most people can use their inner resources to arrive at solutions).
You've heard of the Davinci code? How about
the networking code?
You've heard of the book called The Davinci code? How about the networking
code?
It's fair to say that many of us in the job/career search fields agree that
"traditional" networking strategies are losing their potency, strength and
relevance. Career professionals (including myself in the past) have advised
clients on practising networking to tap into that elusive hidden job market
(the unadvertised job market where most job openings are
concentrated).Enter Dean Lindsay, author of 4 steps to priceless business
relationships: cracking the networking code. Lindsay's acronym stands for:
C= create personal curb appeal Using an active, multi-layered self-marketing
and promotional approach to getting a job
O= while some networking practices are more relevant and effective than
others (client and situation-specific in many cases), the open, face-to-face
approach is still THE most effective way of opening doors...
D=delivering solid first impressions
E= earning trust Maintaining relationships by staying in touch and earning
respect.
Cracking the networking code can be unlocked even by the most dubious job
seekers. The new strategy to get attention from employers? Use social
media web sites to ignite your job search. For an ebook, chock full of ideas,
check out my ebook, How to use social media in your job search, available
on www.careercoachingbyphone.com or www.infoshop.com/au
So that’s my contribution to your customized job search.
JUST BEFORE CLOSING........................

36. Just before I close, and you require one last “pep talk,” let me conclude this
ebook with a post that garnered attention from Twitter users and influential
career specialists:
When things aren't going well, turn to 8
choices in life
This week, I read a newsletter from the founder of
http://www.theresilientjourney.com/, which highlights choices in life. The
web site founder, Dick O'Brien, posted an article of "Eight choices in life" to
give us some advice when things are not going well.
O'Brien observes, "When things aren't going well, look at your recent choices
and you'll discover the cause.' The article's eight points inspired me to write
about conducting a more effective job search.
1. What you focus on
For a successful job search, focus on 10-15 employers for whom you'd like
to work. This is crucial to achieving success. The more specific you can be
about the employer and where you'd like to work, the more likely you will
expedite your job search. Focus also on how many contacts you are going to
make, as opposed to the traditional job search, which is losing potency.
(Remember that employers would prefer to hire those whom they have
heard about from referrals, reputation or recommendation).
In the worst case scenario, job searching with no focus can mean futile
activities like "blasting your résumé" to 100 employers, without considering
what YOUR work preferences are. Though this may seem time consuming,
having a focus is actually time efficient.
Translate that into your daily life.
2. What you think
If you communicate desperation, anger, ambivalence or lack of confidence to
an employer, either in writing or in person, as in an interview situation, you
will be ruled out straight away. Employers will move on to a more attractive
job candidate. And "stalkers" need not apply to employers, if you hound
them for a response to an application.
3. What you say

37. Words, or communication with a potential employer, convey an image.
People will judge you based on how you communicate verbally or in writing.
In the social media age, discrediting a former employer online or offline
immediately supplants YOUR credibility. Be thoughtful and deferential. If you
were laid off and still harbour hard emotions such as anger, resist the
temptation to unleash them with contacts or with potential employers.
4. What you do
Networking, or reaching out to contacts still necessitates social graces. If
you receive a referral or an invitation to meet an influential contact, don't
forget to thank the person who was responsible for making that connection
available. Some industries are more closely-knit than others. I have
reconnected with people after a twenty year absence. Ensure you have a
reputation that commands respect and admiration.
5. What attitude you employ
Though the economy is uncertain and unstable, a positive attitude speaks
volumes about a person, regardless if you have been unemployed for six
months or longer.
6. How you respond
As a supplement to point #4, communication should not waver from
professionalism at all times. Job seekers' responses are under scrutiny,
especially with the advent of online job search tools, such as social media.
Employers are not only checking and screening candidates online, but they
are also evaluating your values and behaviours on and off line.
7. Your self-talk
Often called "negative self-beliefs," these are corrosive to one's confidence
and self-worth during unemployment. Remind yourself constantly that
unemployment is TEMPORARY and that is a matter of time when you will be
employed. Write a mantra about your beliefs or the value that you can offer
an employer. Repeat the mantra three times daily (three has been proven to
be key in taking action) during your job search.
8. Your explanations
If you have been laid off, it is convenient, normal and understandable to
wallow for a time about what you could have done, should have done and

38. would have done to prevent your layoff. Yet the fact is, layoffs are rarely
personal; they are rooted in economics and in cost-efficiency. In other
words, improving the company's bottom line. Rehearse what you are going
to say about your departure from a company before your next interview.
These eight points are salient to what choices we make in life. They give me
pause to consider further posts about how choices are integral to an
effective job search.
And if you don’t know me by now......
I am a SOCIAL MEDIA aficionado and owe much of my “online success” to
connecting with thought “provokers,” sages, specialists, experts and individuals
who are leaders in their own right. Let me end this ebook with a testimonial to
the expertise I share on other career-oriented sites.....
MELISSA MARTIN’S EXPERTISE
APPROVED career expert on these sites:

39. Guest slot on Blogtalk radio, Australian career
internet radio link
Keith Keller and Annemarie Cross host a weekly career internet show on
BlogTalk radio. To date, their show is broadcast to listeners from over 120
countries and growing! I am delighted to have been a guest on their show in
the past year. One of my favourite shows was the “special Canadian edition
show,” when Keith and Annemarie broadcast "living and working in Canada."
The first portion of the podcast highlighted beautiful British Columbia, site of
the 2010 winter Olympics and the ParaOlympics. The second half focused on
Ontario, Canada, where I am proud to reside in the spectacular 1000 islands
tourist destination.
Here's a comment from a Twitter follower of mine: CareerRadio: #Canada
RT @Spherion_Canada Great #Jobseeker insights from Melissa Martin
@RavingRedhead this week @CareerRadio http://twt.tl/5tlAdjv
You can listen @CareerRadio http://twt.tl/5tlAdjv
THANKS FOR READING!
Melissa Martin, www.careercoachingbyphone.com
1-877-621-3141
Ebook author, How to use social media in your job search
Follow me on Twitter @ravingredhead
Facebook: melissacynthiamartin
Facebook fan page: careercoachingbyphone.com
Skype:melissacynthiamartin

40. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Keith Keller and Annemarie Cross, www.careercommuniqueradio.com and
www.CareerSuccessradio.com
David Perry, Guerrilla marketing for job hunters
Kevin Donlin, Guaranteed resumes, www.gresumes.com and
www.thesimplejobsearch.com
Dan Schawbel, Personal branding, danschawbel.com
Sean P. Aune, http://mashable.com
J.T. O’Donnell, www.careerealism.com
Patti Church, www.whyhire.me
Brian Tracy, 21 ways to get the job you really want
Jacob Share, www.jobmob.com
D. Dutton, www.stuckinrut.com
Dr. Phillip McGraw, www.Dr. Phil.com
Tony Beshara, www.thejobsearchsolution.com
Chris Russell, www.secretsofthejobhunt.com
www.resumebear.com
www.quantumcast.com