LadyPens » Heather Eagar

How to Manage Your Job References

Heather Eagar — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:57:26 +0000

Dealing with job references is often times like dealing with the pink elephant in the room. You know you’re supposed to address and take care of this issue, but because you don’t know where to start, you simply don’t take action at all. Full Article

The New Rules of the Executive Job Search

Heather Eagar — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 22:00:19 +0000

If you’ve been working at the executive level for some time, you may have been disarmed over the past few years by the changes that have occurred in technology. But if you’ve recently left your job and have been looking for work, you’ll notice that there are entirely new rules in the world of job seeking. Full Article

How Numbers Can Enhance Your Resume

Heather Eagar — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:21:47 +0000

Did you know that numbers can make a huge difference in your ability to create a quality resume? It’s true. The more numbers you add to your resume, the more you are enhancing it and increasing your chances of getting called in for an interview. Full Article

Switching Careers at the Executive Level

Heather Eagar — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:12:04 +0000

It may seem like a bit of an impossible task switch careers once you’ve reached the executive level, but it happens more than you think – and it is contemplated even more than that. In fact, according to Execunet’s 2009 Executive Job Market Intelligence Report, 94 percent of the senior-level executives surveyed would consider switching industries. Full Article

What Your Body Language Says In Your Interviews

Heather Eagar — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:00:01 +0000

Did you know that the way you sit, smile and shake hands can speak volumes during a job interview? It’s true. There is no manual to read to determine how you should manage your body language; however, if you make certain gestures, you’re definitely sending a certain message. Full Article

How Volunteering Can Enhance Your Executive-Level Job Search

Heather Eagar — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:41:50 +0000

If you’re in the middle of an executive-level job search, you’re probably hoping that you can get back in the workforce sooner than later. There’s nothing like getting the level of responsibility, and financial rewards, you’re accustomed to. However, if the job search is moving slowly, you may be trying to think of ways to enhance your search – one way is by volunteering. Full Article

Executive Interviewing: How to Persuade the Right Way

Heather Eagar — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:18:59 +0000

When you’re interviewing for a job at the executive level – especially if you’ve been out of work for a while – you may want to try just about any tactic possible to get the job. Because you’re used to being aggressive to get your way, you may want to try to persuade the interviewer to give you the job. But there are lines that should be drawn when using this tactic. Full Article

Cover Letter No-No’s

Heather Eagar — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:16:39 +0000

Writing a cover letter can sometimes be a bit confusing. You simply don’t know what information to add, what to exclude and how exactly to tell your story. For many, this leads to some cover letter mistakes.
If you’re guilty of writing cover letters that just didn’t accomplish what they were supposed to – getting you the job – then you may need to revamp your style. Oh, it would also be good if you took time to read through these cover letter no-no’s. This way, you can avoid making similar – or even new – mistakes in the future. Full Article

What to Do When You’re an Overqualified Executive

Heather Eagar — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:39:28 +0000

The job market is definitely suffering nowadays. With the recession forging ahead and thousands still losing their jobs, it’s a wonder that anyone can get hired. However, as some executives are finding out, there is work available. However, it may not be at the level they’d like to work.
If you’re an executive who has found that you need to seek a lower-level job to get back on your feet, you’re not alone. In your search, however, you may have found the employers are reluctant to give you work because they know you’re overqualified. Full Article

How to Avoid Exaggerating In Your Resume

Heather Eagar — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:43:42 +0000

When you’re drafting a resume, it is tempting to stretch the truth some so that you appear to be more impressive than maybe your skills might indicate. However, while there is such a thing as packaging your resume in a smart way, choosing words that tell the truth, yet sound sensational, for example, you want to avoid flat-out exaggerating. Full Article

Avoiding Resume Quick Sand

Heather Eagar — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:44:35 +0000

There’s probably nothing more frustrating than getting your resume all “prettied up” to send to a company via an online source, only to realize that when you hit the send button, you don’t know where in the world it’s going. This can be compared to sending your resume in quick sand. It’s being sucked into an unseen, unknown world and you don’t know if it will ever return some type of response for you. Full Article

Going for the Green Job at the Executive Level

Heather Eagar — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:29:49 +0000

Everyone knows that “going green” is all the rage nowadays – and it should be. Sparing our environment of all of the pollution and toxic chemicals we’ve thrown its way over the past years should be a definite goal. This is why green jobs are now becoming popular. Full Article

Identifying and Making the Most of Your Transferable Skills

Heather Eagar — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:26:20 +0000

Many times, when we’re applying for jobs, we think about how our skills relate specifically to the position we desire. There’s no doubt that it’s important to show that you already have experience and qualify for the position you want. However, if you’re trying to switch careers, you may not have this luxury. Full Article

Common Executive Resume Mistakes

Heather Eagar — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:00:59 +0000

When you reach the executive level in your career, there is no room for error. You must exude perfection with everything you do. This is especially true with your resume, which is why the last thing you want to do is submit a resume with glaring errors. Full Article

Don’t Let Being Over 50 Slow Your Executive Level Job Search

Heather Eagar — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:55:40 +0000

Job searches are often difficult enough without throwing curveballs into the equation like age. But age is definitely a factor, even at the executive level where one would think that expertise would be valued over all else. Full Article

Are Job Searches Better in the Summer?

Heather Eagar — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:41:23 +0000

Going Christmas shopping is usually better after Thanksgiving. Going skiing is usually better in the winter after a good snow has fallen. Going hunting for beautiful flowers is usually better in the spring. And some argue that searching for a job is usually better in the summer. Never heard of that? Well, you’re not alone. You, like most people, probably feel that there’s no right season to find a job. However, some experts beg to differ, believing that the down time many companies experience in the summer time offers a perfect opportunity to slide on in. While this myth has yet to be proven, if you happen to be searching in these summer months, there are some tips you can take advantage of to make your search easier.

Thinking about Sending a Cold Cover Letter? Read This First …

Heather Eagar — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 07:36:52 +0000

Have you ever thought about sending out a cold cover letter to company in search of a job that you’re not sure even exists? The thought of a cold cover letter just may give you cold feet. But it’s good to know that there are plenty of success stories that come out of sending out these types of letters. So before you start biting your nails too hard at the prospect of taking on this form of application, consider just what you can gain from doing so. You could be surprised by the number of opportunities you could gain from doing so.

Strengthening Your Executive Resume with the Right Keywords

Heather Eagar — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 06:08:48 +0000

You’ve probably heard about the various ways to improve your resume so that it can be moved to the top of the talent pool instead of the top of a trash pile. The use of keywords is particularly important, especially with advancements in technology that can capture and categorize resumes based on the keywords used. This is a practice not only common with entry-level and managerial resumes, it also works extraordinarily well with executive resumes. Let’s look at how to do this.

Preparing for Executive Interviews

Heather Eagar — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 21:24:05 +0000

As an executive, you’ve probably been on plenty of interviews in your lifetime – from that entry-level position to the management positions you’ve held. But nothing quite compares to the executive-level interview; if you’ve been on even one you know this is a true statement. So how do you properly prepare for executive-level interviews? There are a number of steps involved to get you on the right track and keep you there. Let’s take a look at what they are …

How to Write Resumes for Education Careers

Heather Eagar — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 06:26:57 +0000

The education field is one of few out there that is still managing relatively well in the midst of the recession. However, this doesn’t mean that snagging a great job will be a piece of cake. It may still require some work, especially in terms of creating a great resume. So if you have already acquired your education degree, are certified to teach, and are looking for your first education job – or are thinking of leaving your current position and want something new – it’s a good idea to learn how to get your education resume in order. The good news is that it’s easier than you think. Here are a few tips to get you started.

What are Targeted Cover Letters?

Heather Eagar — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 07:51:19 +0000

If you are currently out of work, or are thinking about leaving your job then there’s a chance that you’ve written at least one cover letter in your lifetime. But the question is what type of cover letter did you write? Many people utilize templates or carbon copy-styled cover letters that allow you to fill in the blanks where needed, but don’t really delve into the position you’re applying for and why you personally want the job. This is where a targeted cover letter steps in. The targeted cover letter can help can help a candidate’s application easily stand out among others. Let’s look at some ways that you can manage yours …

Finding an Executive Job Through a Temp Agency

Heather Eagar — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 07:49:03 +0000

As an executive, it’s customary to feel that the only way to find employment is through networking. While this is a vital aspect in job seeking at such a high level, it’s not the only way. In fact, a trend has been set in recent years for executives to find their employment opportunities through temp agencies. This may sound unorthodox and possibly ineffective. While it may be a bit unorthodox, ineffective it is not. In fact, many executives have found great opportunities taking this route. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of executives venturing into the temp pool.

Tips for Fabulous Tech Job Resume

Heather Eagar — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:35:41 +0000

The technology industry is booming more than ever. Even with many hard workers losing their jobs left and right, the IT field is doing just find thanks to the Internet. If you have experience in a tech field - or want to scoot over to this industry - and are looking for work, you're going to need a pretty good resume to compete with all the other pros out there. So before you get started on yours, let's look at a few tips to consider to make yours fabulous.

What You Should Know about Writing an Executive Resume

Heather Eagar — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:30:33 +0000

If you have worked your way up the corporate ladder from an entry-level position to that of a professional – and now executive – you know how different the world can look at each stage in the game. As an executive, a lot more is expected of you, and probably no one is a harsher critic of you than yourself. Full Article

Tips for Executives: Searching for Jobs the Right Way

Heather Eagar — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:24:37 +0000

Possibly one of the largest mistakes that an executive could make when searching for a job is conducting the job search as if he were a manager. Once you reach the level of an executive, you have entered a new world and have to treat your job search as such. This means taking different avenues and utilizing more cutting-edge techniques. If you're just stepping into this new world as an executive and want to know how to search for a job the right way, don't just sit there filled with uncertainty. Instead, you can take advantage of these tips to search for jobs the right way.

Switching from a Suffering Industry to a Safe One

Heather Eagar — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:37:30 +0000

If you’ve been laid off from your job because the industry is drying up – or think you’re in jeopardy of this happening – and want to find a solution to your problem, you’re not alone. There are a lot of people who started out in the industry of their choice only to realize that it is dying out pretty fast. Being in this predicament doesn’t mean that you’re traveling down a dead-end road, however. In fact, it could mean the beginning of a fantastic new direction to your career, especially if you’re open to considering a safer industry to explore.

Keeping Your Spirits Up in a Tough Job Search Environment

Heather Eagar — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:46:31 +0000

No matter how you’ve become unemployed over the past year or more – whether through choice or force – if you’re looking to regain employment, this is a tough time to make your dream a reality. With millions of jobs lost in the past few months, acquiring a new gig is not a simple task. In fact, the process can be downright discouraging, which is why it’s good to keep with you a few ways that you can keep your spirits up during your job search. Let’s look at what they are …

Getting the Job You Desire: Preparing for Various Interview Types

Heather Eagar — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 02:04:24 +0000

If you’ve been on multiple job interviews then you know that you might encounter a different environment depending on the company you interview with. This is pretty common because every company has its own culture. And more importantly, each company – and even department – instills its own interviewing strategy. Full Article

Reinvent Your Career by Knowing “You”

Heather Eagar — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:41:18 +0000

If you’ve been thinking about starting a new career, you may be feeling confused as to where to start. You know you don’t want to continue on your current path, but you don’t exactly know what new path to take. Full Article

“Pimp Your Resume”: 5 Cool Resume Tips

Heather Eagar — Tue, 26 May 2009 15:31:13 +0000

You’ve probably heard of the show “Pimp My Ride,” where a lucky person has a chance to turn an otherwise crappy vehicle into the beautiful car of their dreams. Well, as beautiful as a 1978 Ford Pinto can get, that is. Full Article

New Job, New Tricks: Social Networking and the Job Search for Baby Boomers

Heather Eagar — Tue, 19 May 2009 08:12:27 +0000

In the new world of technology, it’s very common for job seekers to work via the Internet to find their employment. This is mainly because many employers have moved their application processes to the Internet – as well as their headhunters. In other words, if you want to find employment, your best bet is to do it online. Full Article

Snagging a Great Internship: 3 Resume-Writing Tips

Heather Eagar — Tue, 12 May 2009 06:23:46 +0000

It’s not uncommon for an intern-hopeful to feel shocked after realizing that they need to create a resume in order to apply for a position. Because many on-campus jobs are obtainable without a resume, some students never assume they will need it to apply for an internship. They’re wrong. Full Article

Conducting Online Job Searches without Spilling Too Many Beans

Heather Eagar — Sun, 10 May 2009 09:00:43 +0000

If you’ve conducted online job searches, you know that as you apply to companies, you may have to enter a ton of personal information to complete the application. For some, this process is no big deal. However, others feel it’s too invasive and potentially puts them at risk of identity theft. Full Article

Turning a “Loser” Cover Letter into a Winning One

Heather Eagar — Fri, 08 May 2009 06:17:42 +0000

When applying for a job, it’s not uncommon to send in a cover letter with the resume. In fact, many experts suggest that even if one is not requested, it be sent anyway to show professionalism and enthusiasm for the job. Full Article

Top-Notch Interviewing: How to Avoid Appearing Too Desperate

Heather Eagar — Thu, 07 May 2009 05:18:53 +0000

The process of applying for jobs can be so taxing that at the end of a long day of searching, it’s pretty common to just collapse from exhaustion. With so much work involved in the process, it’s no wonder that some candidates can get a little desperate. Full Article

Ways to Transition from a Large to a Smaller Company

Heather Eagar — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:09:32 +0000

It’s not always easy to work for a big company – especially when that big company lays you off and leaves you unwanted by smaller companies. Unfortunately, this scenario is true for too many veterans who have been let go from business giants only to be shot down by smaller companies that are intimidated by them. Full Article

Making Electronic Resumes Work for You

Heather Eagar — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 07:39:12 +0000

We’re living in an electronic world, which means it’s pretty important that when it comes to resumes you learn to be an electronic girl – or boy. There are a high percentage of companies that prefer that job candidates submit applications and resumes online. So if you don’t know how to do so, you may find yourself left behind your technologically advanced competition. Full Article

Tips for Grads Looking for Employment During the Recession

Heather Eagar — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:43:24 +0000

Being a college grad in the middle of a recession is one of the toughest times to try to find a job. Unfortunately, there are thousands of students who have recently graduated – or are about to cross the stage – who will be looking for employment with 4 million others who have recently been laid off. So how can someone with very little experience compete against candidates who have years of know-how and education under their belts? There are a few tips to consider that can help to make the job search a little simpler. Let’s take a look at what they are … Full Article

Cover Letter Etiquette

Heather Eagar — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 08:30:06 +0000

Whether you’ve written one or one hundred cover letters in your lifetime, they can present enough challenges to make you dread the process each time. It’s for this reason that many people resort to the “carbon copy” cover letter as opposed to creating an original one for each job application. Full Article

Creating a Good Reference List

Heather Eagar — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:57:30 +0000

One of the greatest mysteries associated with applying for a job is how to create a good reference list. Because not every employer even requests this list as a part of the application process, it can often be difficult to know exactly who should be listed and when. Full Article

Tips for Getting Past the First Interview

Heather Eagar — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 02:00:18 +0000

Searching for a job in a tough economy can be extremely challenging. This is especially true if it seems impossible to get past the first interview. Unfortunately, some people seem to have this sort of luck. So what can be done about it? Is there a secret to getting the employer of your choice to call you back for a second interview – and perhaps hire you for the position? There are a few tips that you can utilize to get you on the right track. Let’s look at what they are … Full Article

Finding Jobs Created by the New Stimulus Bill

Heather Eagar — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 03:05:48 +0000

We all know that in 2009 some major adjustments have been occurring on the job front, including a new stimulus bill that is proposing to create 3.5 million new jobs. But how are you affected by this new bill? If you have been recently laid off from an employer affected by the recession, or are simply looking for a new opportunity, the bill is going to open new ones. So let’s take a closer look at just what this new bill can mean for you in your search to find a new employment opportunity. Full Article

What Counts in a Cover Letter

Heather Eagar — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 03:13:20 +0000

Writing a cover letter is a commonplace aspect of conducting any job search. When you apply for a job, even if the prospective employer does not ask you for one, itâ€™s good to send one as a way to give them a little more insight into who you are and what youâ€™re capable of. Full Article

Remaining Financially Stable While Pursuing Your Dream

Heather Eagar — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 03:40:40 +0000

But itâ€™s not always easy being a dreamer. Because while these people may be pursuing their passion, itâ€™s often hard to do it without compromising a reasonable income. If you find yourself in this predicament, here are some tips to help you stay afloat financially while taking strides to pursue your dream â€¦ Full Article

Should You Accept a Low-Paying Job Offer or Stick with Unemployment Benefits?

Heather Eagar — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:21:18 +0000

So youâ€™ve recently been let go from your company and are receiving unemployment benefits when an amazing thing happens â€“ you get a job offer. But itâ€™s not the offer you were hoping for. While it will definitely pay the bills, it will result in you taking less than 50-percent of what you were making. Full Article

Is Your Job Cramping Your Style? Consider Trading Down

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:27:41 +0000

Ever wondered why people trade down for a job when they are already settled in a high-profile job that pays them quite well? Many people trade down for a variety of reasons that include long-term career opportunities, change in lifestyle, job security, less stress, family reasons and so on. Full Article

Building A Secure Future Through Retirement Planning

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:27:37 +0000

Planning for retirement is a crucial part of your life and career. Whether you are young – or not so young – you have to be sure to take the proper measures to ensure your financial future. It’s never too late to start, but you have to start now. Full Article

5 Cover Letter Tips: Do What Most Job Seekers Don’t

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:27:35 +0000

Although your cover letter is as significant as your resume, career and job coaches put more emphasis on writing a good cover letter for obvious reasons – prospective employers usually read the cover letter first. For most employers, a resume is a kind of “fact sheet” that supports the academic and professional accomplishments you highlight in your cover letter. There’s no such thing as a “one size fits all” cover letter when applying for a job. You will probably be targeting different types of jobs in your search, so it is crucial that you adapt your cover letters to fit the needs of each particular employer. Full Article

5 Resume Tips: Do What Most Job Seekers Don’t

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:27:32 +0000

When it comes to writing a great resume, there are no hard and fast rules or specific formats that you should adhere to; however, your resume should be targeted to each specific job that you are applying to. In addition, it must be concise, clear, command attention and stand out from the pack. Full Article

What To Do When Your Resume Falls Flat

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:27:30 +0000

Are you sitting by the phone, twiddling your thumbs, just waiting to get a call about the job you just posted for? Have you been sitting there a really long time? Have your calls gone unreturned? Maybe it’s time to take a closer look at your resume. Full Article

Effective Resume Writing: Part One â€“ Itâ€™s All in Your Head

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:27:27 +0000

Writing your resume is a mandatory step in your job search. If you want it to go quickly – at least as quickly as possible – and smoothly, then there are guidelines that you might want to adhere to. Full Article

The ABCs of Effective Resume Writing: Part 2 â€“ Flush Out Your Achievements

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:20:01 +0000

Figuring out what you’ve actually accomplished in your career is one of the most difficult parts of writing your resume. Many people believe they haven’t done much of anything; just every day tasks that don’t amount to anything. Full Article

The ABCs of Effective Resume Writing: Part 3 â€“ The All Important Format

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:20:00 +0000

Choosing the right format might seem like childâ€™s play to a lot of job seekers. I mean, how many good choices are there really? The answer depends on your own unique situation. Full Article

The ABCs of Effective Resume Writing: Part 4 â€“ Make Your Achievements â€˜Popâ€™

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:19:55 +0000

Now that you know the right format for your resume and you have written out all your achievements and responsibilities, it’s time to really showcase those accomplishments. But what is the best way to do that? Full Article

The ABCs of Effective Resume Writing: Part 5 â€“ Second Opinions Count or A Once Over Will Never Do

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:19:45 +0000

How many times have you written a document or email, sent it out, and then discovered some major typos or even words missing? What if it doesn’t get your point across – or worse yet – give off the exact opposite impression? If you’re like most, it’s happened to you at least once. Full Article

The ABCs of Effective Resume Writing: Part 6 â€“ Getting it into the Right Hands

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:19:44 +0000

Having a great resume doesn’t do you any good if you can’t get the people in power to read it. Many job seekers believe that there is an end all be all to doing just this. So what is THE best way for your resume to be seen by those who can make something happen? Full Article

Waiting for Job Opportunities â€“ How to Keep Yourself Occupied

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:18:58 +0000

With over 500,000 people losing their jobs in the month of November 2008, and over 10 million unemployed in the United States to date, the thought of acquiring a job can almost seem hopeless. But itâ€™s not. Companies are still hiring, jobs are still available, and you can have one â€“ as long as you donâ€™t give up. Full Article

A Sample Interview Thank You Letter

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:18:45 +0000

A sample thank you letter that you use after an interview, as a guideline or template, will save you a lot of time when preparing this type of correspondence. Since you’ll prepare it before the job interview when you are not nervous and have a clear head, the letter will really increase your chances of making or reinforcing a good impression. Full Article

Need Interviews? A Sample Letter for Following-Up Your Resume Submission

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:18:41 +0000

A sample letter to use as a guide when preparing your follow up letters can assist your job search, save you time, and make you look very professional. Take a look at the following, and use it as a guide when preparing your own follow up letters. Full Article

Get Yourself Ready to Impress During a Phone Interview

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:18:39 +0000

Preparing for an interview over the phone is primarily a mental exercise, and something that is easy to prepare for. It is the second impression that you will make on a hiring decision maker – the first impression was obviously made for you by your resume and cover letter, and must have been positive, or you would not have this interview appointment. That being the case, it is worth while to prepare for it and be ready to put your best foot forward. Full Article

What Questions Should I Ask During an Interview?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:18:36 +0000

What are good questions to ask during an interview is a good question in itself, and one that always comes up when a conscientious person is preparing for a big job interview. The fact that a person even wonders that sets them apart from the crowd of applicants and means that he or she is a proactive individual, intent on making a good impression and proper presentation of skills and experience. Full Article

Leave Your Job on Good Terms and Save Yourself Regret

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:18:33 +0000

The exit interview is not a time to burn bridges with your old company. It has become a very common ritual throughout corporate America, and the idea behind it is to find out from departing staff members, when they no longer have to worry about protecting jobs, exactly what things at the company can be improved upon. The interview is deigned to be a tool for making a company more efficient and a better place to work. However, many employees who are leaving an organization use this as a time to vent frustrations they may have felt. They see it as a personal gripe session, and loose inhibitions, sometimes venting personal ad homonym attacks against co-workers, and especially against former supervisors and bosses. Full Article

Tell Them in Writing â€œThank You for Hiring Me!â€

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:17:10 +0000

A thank you letter after you accept a job offer shows good taste, gratitude, and in general shows a new employer that they made a wise decision in hiring you. Most new hires do not write one, so if you are one of the smart few people who do, your relationship with your new employer will get off to a great start. Full Article

Tips for Cover Letters to Get More Interviews

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:17:06 +0000

Here’s a tip for cover letters to get more interviews. Use a bulleted format cover letter rather than a standard letter in paragraphs. The bulleted format is more eye-catching, and is more likely to be glanced at by the hiring manager or other person assigned to sort through resumes. This format will help you get your resume seen by more people and as a result get more interviews and more job offers. Full Article

Cover Letters, Resumes and the Job Hunterâ€¦Whatâ€™s it All About?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:17:02 +0000

Any good job hunter needs a resume package. The cover letter and resume always go together and do the same basic thing in slightly different ways. A job hunter without both of them will probably not get very far in the search for a good career position. Full Article

Stuck in a Job Search Rut?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:17:00 +0000

It happens. You get all pumped up to look for a new job, get your resume and cover letter all spruced up and then…nothing. How do you put the excitement back in your job search? Full Article

Donâ€™t Forget the Basics of Cover Letter Writing

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:16:59 +0000

What do employers want to see in your cover letter? That seems to be the question a lot of job seekers ask. Here are some basics that will help you start writing your cover letter and propel you into applying for new jobs. Ask yourself the following questions so that your job search is off to a good start. Full Article

Step-By-Step Cover Letter Guide For Teachers

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:16:57 +0000

To teach and become a teacher is the dream of many college grads. To realize this dream, you must have a couple of things in order, as competition for jobs heats up and salary levels going through the roof. To begin with, your grades through out your academic career must be more than impressive. But more importantly than this, your resume and cover letter combination is the instrument that will either get you the job interview or not. Full Article

Options for Working Moms â€“ Is it all or Nothing?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:16:51 +0000

Many working moms struggle with the day-to-day grind of the workweek. While many may enjoy their jobs, they may not enjoy the ritual of waking up early, getting the kids ready, only to drop them off at daycare. Oftentimes, a large portion of their paycheck goes straight to the people who are caring for their children during the day. Full Article

Sales Cover Letters â€“ Donâ€™t Sell Yourself Short

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:16:46 +0000

For one, sales cover letters are pretty much identical to business cover letters in their format or rules, but differ crucially in their content. Your cover letter reflects directly on your ability to “make the sale”. Full Article

New Job Envy â€“ Do You Have It?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:16:42 +0000

Your closest co-worker just got a new job…and it makes you crazy because that could have been you. You’re as qualified as her; you have the same background and experience…why weren’t you the one who got a new job? Oh yeah, because you actually have to apply for a job in order to be offered it. Full Article

Standing Out from the Crowd at Career Fairs

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:13:57 +0000

Do Your Research Full Article

Going from â€˜Momâ€™ to â€˜Employeeâ€™

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:13:54 +0000

It happens five days a week. You have to shift gears from being a mom to being an employee – even the boss. How can you effectively shift gears and get yourself ready for the workday ahead? How do you gain and keep respect with those who work alongside you? Full Article

How to Train Yourself for a New Job

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:13:46 +0000

If you’ve been looking for a job for any length of time, you’ll notice there are many out there beyond your level of expertise. Why is that? Is it because of your education? Your lack of experience? If you want to move ahead in your career, sometimes you need to make yourself more marketable. How exactly can you do that? Full Article

Are You A Job Search Procrastinator?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:13:45 +0000

You’ve been in a dead-end job for months, or even years now, yet you can’t seem to gather up the courage to look for a new job. Or your company announced there will be a series of layoffs coming this year and you don’t know if you’re going to be affected. Is that enough to make you start job hunting? If not, then you could be considered a job search procrastinator. Full Article

Overcoming the Glass Ceiling for Moms

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:13:36 +0000

It’s an unfortunate fact that a glass ceiling exists at all for women. Throw being a mom on top of that, and you might have lowered that ceiling even more. As is true in most things in life, it’s not accurate to say this is always the case. There are exceptions, and hopefully those exceptions will soon be the norm. Until then, here are some tips for moms moving upward at work. Full Article

Cover Letter Blunders & Pitfalls

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:12:29 +0000

As you sit down to write your cover letter, do you ever stop and think, “Who the heck is going to read this?” You may believe that just because employers get hundreds of resumes per job posting that they tend to skip the cover letter part. That is just not true. Full Article

Modern Online Career Portals â€“ The One-Stop Shop

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:12:26 +0000

In the not-so-recent-past, job seekers had to spend hours upon hours walking around visiting companies and career consultants hoping to get a good job. They had to pour over newspapers and job listings for hours and then call up every prospective employer to ask for an appointment. But the advent of the Internet has changed all that. Now one of the most effective and efficient ways to look for a job is by using online career services. Unlike days past, the new online job services offer comprehensive advice concerning interviews, resume writing, and even career coaching – all at reasonable prices, and some services are free of charge. Full Article

Surviving Job Search Stress

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:12:23 +0000

A Job Search Is An Emotional Roller-Coaster Ride Full Article

Improving Your Career â€“ A Contact Sport

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:12:18 +0000

Shaping Your Career Full Article

Ignorance Is Not Bliss â€“ Why You Arenâ€™t Getting Job Offers

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:12:13 +0000

Do you keep getting rejected at each and every interview that you go on? Is this getting you down? Making you feel dejected? Before you decide that â€˜it’s all someone else’s fault’, have you thought of the possibility that you might be going wrong somewhere during the interview process? Well, instead of just sitting there and wondering why you’re not getting any good job offers you should probably try to find out why and make changes. Most job seekers feel that they have been rejected for no reason whatsoever, but this is usually not true. Full Article

Why Aren’t I Getting Interviews?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:12:08 +0000

Don’t Underestimate The Power Of A Resume Full Article

Over 50 and Job Searching â€“ Cultivating Your Upper Hand

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:10:44 +0000

No one really knows when youth ends officially. But if you are over 50 and looking for a job, you probably feel that the rules have all changed. These are the times of downsizing, â€˜right-sizing’ (whatever that means) and cost-cutting. If you have ever lost a potential job to a much younger, lower-paid candidate, you might have asked yourself if you’ve reached your expiration date. Full Article

Job Outlook for MBAs in 2007 â€“ Youâ€™re Gonna Need Shades

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:10:38 +0000

As a new management graduate, your job prospects are looking better than ever! According to Job Outlook 2007, employers are planning to employ 17.4% more new graduates than they did in 2006. This increase is across all sectors – service (19.8% increase), manufacturing (9.5% increase) and government/non-profit (9% increase). Full Article

Desperate To Leave Your Job? Avoid These Fatal Mistakes

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:10:37 +0000

If you are not satisfied with your current job, you may be tempted to quit right away. However, this may not be a smart career move – and you should leave your present job only after you find a new one. When you’re looking for a new job, don’t burn any bridges along the way, because it is imperative to still maintain a cordial relationship with your current employers. Full Article

Career Decisions â€“ Charting Your Own Destiny

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:10:11 +0000

Being grown up and having the freedom to â€˜decide’ is a goal that most of us have. However, once we have reached our early twenties, and we realize that we are actually getting a little freedom, it is not such an exciting prospect. Why? Because along with the freedom comes the need to make responsible decisions, ones that are likely to dictate the course that our lives will take. Full Article

Changing Careers â€“ Ultimate Tips For Success

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:10:08 +0000

Are you thinking about changing your career? Are you worried about how difficult the transition is going to be? Then you are not alone. Many people go through similar anticipation when thinking about attempting a career change. Your career is among the most important things in your life, and changing it is one of the most stressful decisions you will ever make. Full Article

Make Your Move â€“ Right Into Management

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:10:05 +0000

Are you ready to move up the corporate ladder and shoulder management responsibilities? There are a number of indicators that can tell you if you are ready for the big leap. If you are in a staff or line job and feel that you should consider a career shift and look for bigger challenges, then maybe you should seriously consider moving into a management position. Full Article

New Grads â€“ Tips For Moving Out, On and Up

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:09:55 +0000

The first thing that comes to your mind after getting your degree is to find a lucrative job in your chosen field. The job market is highly competitive and it is important to prepare yourself before you start your job search. Multiple careers, downsizing workforces, and a lack of job security are realities of today’s job market. Full Article

5 Ways Your Cover Letter Says, â€˜I Donâ€™t Want This Jobâ€™

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:08:39 +0000

Cover letters can be a great way to get employers to notice you. Of course you always want to send one but what are some ways that your cover letter can actually hurt your chances of getting interviews? Full Article

Moms Going Back to Work for Financial Security

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:08:36 +0000

There has been a ton of discussion lately about stay-at-home moms sacrificing their financial health for the sake of raising their children. Whether you agree or disagree with this statement, there are a lot of moms returning to the workforce to make an extra buck and keep their foot in the corporate world. Full Article

What Makes Your Job Search Go â€˜Round

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:08:34 +0000

It’s no secret: your job search can be a drag. And it can be very draining on your psyche. Maybe if we go in-depth to see what really is all involved in a job search and what it entails, it’ll help you gain perspective. Full Article

Signs Your Resume Has Gone Bad

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:08:30 +0000

If you’ve ever been in the position to review resumes and cover letters, then you know there are some funky ones out there. But what really makes a resume a bad resume? Full Article

Cover Letter Problem #1: Mystery Hiring Manager

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:08:24 +0000

Here’s the situation: the job posting has only the title of the hiring manager or simple just “Hiring Manager”. Frustrating, isn’t it? Many times job seekers don’t do much, if any, digging around to see if they can up with that ever-important name. Are you one of them? Full Article

Cover Letter Mistake #2: Who Are You and Why Should I Interview You?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:07:57 +0000

Have you ever been reading some piece of literature and as you’re reading you realize you have no idea what the point of the whole piece actually is? It’s very annoying and you’re likely not to read another word because you feel like you’ve already wasted your time. Full Article

Cover Letter Mistake #3: Call Me Because I Wonâ€™t Call You

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:07:54 +0000

The last paragraph of your cover letter can be very powerful. How you end it could leave a lasting impression with the employer – good or bad. So before you sign off using your typical, “Please call me at your earliest convenience to set up an interview” kind of mumbo-jumbo, take care to let the employer off the hook and put the responsibility to follow-up squarely on your shoulders. Full Article

Take a Side Job for the Sake of Your Career

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:07:31 +0000

When was the last time you looked at your life and said, “How in the world did I get here?” A month ago? Last week? This morning? Sometimes you can wonder that in a good way as if you’ve had a great fortune in love, life and work. Other times, it’s not thought of in such a positive light. Full Article

For Your Resume Success, Think Like a Professional Writer

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:07:26 +0000

It’s depressing, isn’t it? You sit there looking at your resume that isn’t getting the results sitting in your portfolio just waiting for interviews. But it’s just not happening for you. Why is that? Why can’t you get interviews? Full Article

Is Your Cover Letter Fast Food or Five Star?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:07:24 +0000

If you’ve been job hunting for some time now, you probably have come to the realization that it’s a jungle out there. It’s a jungle with lots of job seekers vying for the exact positions that you are seeking. You have the experience, education and achievements that warrant an interview… but you’re not getting any. What’s going on? Full Article

Itâ€™s Time for the Holidaysâ€¦and Writing Your Resume?

Heather Eagar — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:06:20 +0000

It’s already Holiday time and you’re sitting there wondering where the year went, right? Perhaps you’re looking at what you’ve accomplished over the last 12 months and where to set your sites on for next year. Part of your big plan could be to get a new job. Full Article