We've moved into the third month of the year which is the time when most people start slacking on their new year's resolutions. I'd like to note that I'm still going strong!
Day 52. I treated myself to some new work clothes with my newly won LeasePlan money!
Day 53. Sometimes its worth putting your opinion out there because you never know who's listening.
Day 54. Successfully started to tear down some walls.
Day 55. I trumped the expressway entry from the last time... Make that... I successfully drove on the expressway during a snow storm!
Day 56. I nearly doubled the number of participants at the Chicago Career Fair compared to last year.
Day 57. I visited West Palm Beach, FL for the first time. This trip was also a huge leap in faith that I haven't been willing to take in a long, long time.
Day 58. A rainy day in Florida equals a GREAT movie day!
Day 59. I had the best date night EVER!
Day 60. I realized that, sometimes, home is not where you live...
Day 61. I was nominated for a front-row parking spot by a front line employee who appreciated the career fair. I felt so honored.
Day 62. I drafted my first sales offer letter complete with a confidentiality agreement.
Day 63. I bowled my all time high score - 153!!!
Day 64. I was reminded that I should focus on the things that I can control.
Day 65. I pulled out my paint brushes for the first time in months and created two new pieces!
Showing posts with label motivation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label motivation. Show all posts
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
formspring.me (gaining computer skills)
I would like to work on developing my computer skills. Due to my current situation, I do not have a home PC. How would you recommend that I get the training I need?
Take advantage of the resources around you. First (if you are currently employed), discuss training opportunities with your current manager. There are several CBT courses available that you can do from your desk. Additionally, check with the local library. Often they have computers for use. As well, there are multiple training classes you can take online. Lastly, check with local colleges or universities. Typically, they offer continued education classes and you may find something related to gaining computer skills. Best of luck!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
formspring.me (tough market and no response)
Lots of job seekers take it personally when they never hear back from companies to which they've applied. What advice would you give to new jobseekers vis a vis maintaining a thick skin and being persistent in a tough market like this one?
This is a tough one for me to answer. Mostly, because it consistently tugs at my heartstrings.
Its easy for me to say "Don't take it personally...", but I truly understand that it is VERY personal. Of course it's personal! Before I give you any advice... Let me give you some perspective and a little insight to how I function as a recruiter.
If a resume is handed or emailed to me as a referral from someone who works with me, I attempt to reply to either those individuals directly or the internal referral with the status of the position or their candidate's qualification.
If I post a position on one of the major job boards (Career Builder, Monster, Indeed, etc), I'm sure you can only imagine how many resumes I get a day. In every job description, I attempt to be VERY clear on what the requirements of the position are. So, I quickly go through all the received resumes and delete those that do not meet the basic requirements. You read that correctly... I delete them without responding. Then, I go through the remainder to look for the ones with the desired qualifications. The reason that this tugs so much at my heartstrings is that I WANT TO respond to every candidate, but it would be physically impossible to do so.
So, my first piece of advice... NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK. As for names. Talk to people. Let them know you're looking. You are ten times more likely to get your resume in front of the recruiter if you know somebody at that company than you are with simply applying online. It it impossible? Absolutley not.
Which brings me to my second piece of advice and I'm going to borrow the next quote from a famous poster "Keep Calm and Carry On". If is a very touch market out there right now, but I will tell you that things are picking up. Slowly, for sure, but they are picking up. Keep a think skin. Be persistent. DO NOT GIVE UP. The right job will come along. Everything happens in its own time.
Best of luck!
Saturday, February 6, 2010
a break FOR inspiration
I took the last week to finally take a vacation. I went on a cruise to Cozumel and Grand Cayman. This break was the perfect time to reflect on who I am as a person, enjoy the company of some amazing people, and get some additional inspiration for grits&lime. Of course, I kept up with my New Year's resolution and really put myself outside my box and had a blast doing it!
Day 27. Got a phone call from my sister and it really was my niece asking for me. My sister and both of her beautiful daughters are soooo very special to me.
Day 28. Great planning makes even the most hectic of days go smoothly.
Day 29. One of my special talents is packing. I managed to pack 6 days of clothes in 1.5 carry on bags.
Day 30. I took my first vacation in 1.5 years. This trip was much needed.
Day 31. I put myself really outside my comfort zone and hit on a guy! woo!
Day 32. Went to Grand Cayman for the first time. I also sang karaoke for the first time. I sang Donna Summer's "Last Dance" and it was soooo much fun!
Day 33. We returned to Cozumel and I drove our Jeep around the island. Thank God I know how to drive a manual!
Day 34. I took a moment in time to acknowledge and stand up for who I am, what I believe in, and my expectations.
Day 35. I started reading an inspiration book and found a quote that reminded me to not be afraid to be by myself. This is the best time to find out who I am.
Day 36. I logged into my work email to catch up even though it was my day off... And actually restrained myself from actually doing any work. That's a first!
Day 37. I spent the day in my pjs and completely ignored my to-do list. For those that know me, know exactly how out of the box that is for me.
I should also note that while on vacation I came up with three new dress designs for grits&lime. Taking a break was an amazing time for inspiration!
Day 27. Got a phone call from my sister and it really was my niece asking for me. My sister and both of her beautiful daughters are soooo very special to me.
Day 28. Great planning makes even the most hectic of days go smoothly.
Day 29. One of my special talents is packing. I managed to pack 6 days of clothes in 1.5 carry on bags.
Day 30. I took my first vacation in 1.5 years. This trip was much needed.
Day 31. I put myself really outside my comfort zone and hit on a guy! woo!
Day 32. Went to Grand Cayman for the first time. I also sang karaoke for the first time. I sang Donna Summer's "Last Dance" and it was soooo much fun!
Day 33. We returned to Cozumel and I drove our Jeep around the island. Thank God I know how to drive a manual!
Day 34. I took a moment in time to acknowledge and stand up for who I am, what I believe in, and my expectations.
Day 35. I started reading an inspiration book and found a quote that reminded me to not be afraid to be by myself. This is the best time to find out who I am.
Day 36. I logged into my work email to catch up even though it was my day off... And actually restrained myself from actually doing any work. That's a first!
Day 37. I spent the day in my pjs and completely ignored my to-do list. For those that know me, know exactly how out of the box that is for me.
I should also note that while on vacation I came up with three new dress designs for grits&lime. Taking a break was an amazing time for inspiration!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
a little inspiration: with a twist
This blog was originally created to provide tips, feedback, new ideas, and suggestions about recruiting, training, and career development as a whole. Some of the information is geared toward my fellow recruiters and trainers, although even more so for my fellow followers, friends, and those looking to distinguish themselves. More importantly, this blog was designed to be a creative outlet for myself. In a way, it was really a chance for me to distinguish myself.
In recent months, I've come to realize that I am, in fact, a creative person. Not only do I thrive in situations where I am continually learning something new, but in situations where I can be creative and put my hands to work. I've been sewing as long as I can remember and have always loved making gifts for my family. Most recently, I started painting which has been an amazing release for me. Now, you may be asking yourself why I'm so surprised at realizing this about myself... Well, I'm always great at using the analytical side of my brain. I've always been good at math, love working with spreadsheets, and even come up with random equations in my head while running (trust me, I know how odd that sounds). My entire family is like this and I've always been steered in that direction because its what made the most sense.
Well, it may have taken almost 28 years to figure this out about myself, but I couldn't be more excited. Actually, let me rephrase that. I couldn't be more inspired. That inspiration has lead me to work with one of the dearest and most creative friends I know, Nicole, to start grits & lime. So follow us @gritsandlime for updates on what's to come and check out {nicole galletta} for a great explanation of how we came up with the name!
In recent months, I've come to realize that I am, in fact, a creative person. Not only do I thrive in situations where I am continually learning something new, but in situations where I can be creative and put my hands to work. I've been sewing as long as I can remember and have always loved making gifts for my family. Most recently, I started painting which has been an amazing release for me. Now, you may be asking yourself why I'm so surprised at realizing this about myself... Well, I'm always great at using the analytical side of my brain. I've always been good at math, love working with spreadsheets, and even come up with random equations in my head while running (trust me, I know how odd that sounds). My entire family is like this and I've always been steered in that direction because its what made the most sense.
Well, it may have taken almost 28 years to figure this out about myself, but I couldn't be more excited. Actually, let me rephrase that. I couldn't be more inspired. That inspiration has lead me to work with one of the dearest and most creative friends I know, Nicole, to start grits & lime. So follow us @gritsandlime for updates on what's to come and check out {nicole galletta} for a great explanation of how we came up with the name!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
summer time reviews...
Wow! I can't believe we're already in the middle of June. Where did the year go? We've hit the summer months which typically means that it's time for mid-year reviews. This is a time for you and your manager to look at what you’ve accomplished since the beginning of the year and what you plan to do in the remainder.
In preparation for your review, here are some guidelines to help you, the employee, with your role in the process.
Planning & Preparation
* Review performance expectations and competencies and ask for clarification if needed.
* Prepare a list of your accomplishments and progress to date.
* Make note of difficulties or obstacles you’ve encountered in completing your goals for the year.
* Obtain feedback from others when necessary.
Completing Your Self Appraisal
* Keep an objective perspective when completing your self-appraisal.
* Consider the wording of the goal carefully before selecting whether you meet expectations.
* Provide examples of successes and difficulties.
* Save your appraisal as a draft until you are comfortable with your self-appraisal.
Meeting with Your Supervisor
* Be an active participant in the discussion with your supervisor.
* Remain open and receptive to the feedback from your supervisor.
* Make the discussion easier by asking questions like, “What else could I have done to improve X” or “Do you have any suggestions for me?” Then listen carefully.
* Provide specific examples of what you’ve done particularly well and where you would like to improve.
* Discuss what you plan to achieve by the end of the fiscal year, and ask what your supervisor expects you to achieve in this timeframe.
* Share progress you have made toward your own development plan with your supervisor.
Completion & Follow-up
* Thank your supervisor for their feedback.
* Recommit yourself to a successful year.
* Periodically ask for additional feedback on your performance.
* Seek out coaching and informal update opportunities.
* Consider special projects/assignments.
* Actively seek learning opportunities and bring to the attention of your supervisor.
* Take responsibility for personal continuous improvement and development.
In preparation for your review, here are some guidelines to help you, the employee, with your role in the process.
Planning & Preparation
* Review performance expectations and competencies and ask for clarification if needed.
* Prepare a list of your accomplishments and progress to date.
* Make note of difficulties or obstacles you’ve encountered in completing your goals for the year.
* Obtain feedback from others when necessary.
Completing Your Self Appraisal
* Keep an objective perspective when completing your self-appraisal.
* Consider the wording of the goal carefully before selecting whether you meet expectations.
* Provide examples of successes and difficulties.
* Save your appraisal as a draft until you are comfortable with your self-appraisal.
Meeting with Your Supervisor
* Be an active participant in the discussion with your supervisor.
* Remain open and receptive to the feedback from your supervisor.
* Make the discussion easier by asking questions like, “What else could I have done to improve X” or “Do you have any suggestions for me?” Then listen carefully.
* Provide specific examples of what you’ve done particularly well and where you would like to improve.
* Discuss what you plan to achieve by the end of the fiscal year, and ask what your supervisor expects you to achieve in this timeframe.
* Share progress you have made toward your own development plan with your supervisor.
Completion & Follow-up
* Thank your supervisor for their feedback.
* Recommit yourself to a successful year.
* Periodically ask for additional feedback on your performance.
* Seek out coaching and informal update opportunities.
* Consider special projects/assignments.
* Actively seek learning opportunities and bring to the attention of your supervisor.
* Take responsibility for personal continuous improvement and development.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
another top 10
Have you ever left an interview and thought to yourself, "Dang, I had the perfect answer for that!" knowing that you completely froze when you were asked it... Well, the key to a great interview is being prepared. Take the time to actually write out your answers to these top ten interview questions, and it wouldn't hurt to practice in the mirror either. Trust me! It helps!
Top Ten Interview Questions to Prepare For
1. Tell me about yourself.
Tip: Talk about a couple of your key achievements making sure to focus on highlights of your resume.
2. Tell me about your current/last position. What did you like best about it? Least?
Tip: Be prepared to provide specifics.
3. What is your greatest strength? Weakness?
Tip: Discuss your number one strength making sure to provide a good example. For your weakness, find something that you are currently working on. Provide an example of how you’re working to improve on it.
4. Can you provide me an example of when you provided great customer service?
Tip: Explain the problem/project, discuss the action you took, and provide what the results were.
5. What motivates you in the workplace?
Tip: Challenge, creativity, success, and opportunity are the most used. You can also mention specific skills that you enjoy using such as problem solving, decision making, listening, or counseling others.
6. Did you gain any relevant experience during this time period?
Tip: Most likely, they’re referring to gaps in your work history. Keep your answers professional and work-related. Talk about skills you developed, gained, or worked on while un-employed. You may want to talk about time management skills, how to deal with adversity, problem solving, decision making, etc.
7. What is the most difficult situation you’ve ever faced?
Tip: Pick an example which you successfully resolved a tough situation in the work place. Tell the story briefly and try to reveal as many good qualities as possible. The interviewer is looking for qualities such as perseverance, good judgment, and maturity in a work situation.
8. What experience do you have that will make you the ideal candidate for this position?
Tip: This is a great opportunity to sell you. Talk about your strengths (including ones you did not mention previously) and how they fit the needs of the company. Do your research on both the company and the position before going into the interview.
9. What is the most important thing you are looking for in a job?
Tip: Figure out what it is that you value most in a company and position. You may value challenge, good working conditions, training, or friendly co-workers. Talk about one or two of those items.
10. Have you ever been convicted by any Federal, State or any other law enforcement authorities for any violation of Federal, State, County, or municipal law, regulation, or ordinance?
Tip: This may appear on your application. If so, answer truthfully. If you are offered the job, they will most likely do a background check and its better to be forth-coming with this information. For many companies, this does not omit you as a candidate for the position. If asked about it during the interview, find the positive and talk about how you have moved on from this discretion. There is no need to go into detail. If the interviewer is concerned about your credibility, mention that you can provide a list of professional references that would be able to vouch for your character.
Top Ten Interview Questions to Prepare For
1. Tell me about yourself.
Tip: Talk about a couple of your key achievements making sure to focus on highlights of your resume.
2. Tell me about your current/last position. What did you like best about it? Least?
Tip: Be prepared to provide specifics.
3. What is your greatest strength? Weakness?
Tip: Discuss your number one strength making sure to provide a good example. For your weakness, find something that you are currently working on. Provide an example of how you’re working to improve on it.
4. Can you provide me an example of when you provided great customer service?
Tip: Explain the problem/project, discuss the action you took, and provide what the results were.
5. What motivates you in the workplace?
Tip: Challenge, creativity, success, and opportunity are the most used. You can also mention specific skills that you enjoy using such as problem solving, decision making, listening, or counseling others.
6. Did you gain any relevant experience during this time period?
Tip: Most likely, they’re referring to gaps in your work history. Keep your answers professional and work-related. Talk about skills you developed, gained, or worked on while un-employed. You may want to talk about time management skills, how to deal with adversity, problem solving, decision making, etc.
7. What is the most difficult situation you’ve ever faced?
Tip: Pick an example which you successfully resolved a tough situation in the work place. Tell the story briefly and try to reveal as many good qualities as possible. The interviewer is looking for qualities such as perseverance, good judgment, and maturity in a work situation.
8. What experience do you have that will make you the ideal candidate for this position?
Tip: This is a great opportunity to sell you. Talk about your strengths (including ones you did not mention previously) and how they fit the needs of the company. Do your research on both the company and the position before going into the interview.
9. What is the most important thing you are looking for in a job?
Tip: Figure out what it is that you value most in a company and position. You may value challenge, good working conditions, training, or friendly co-workers. Talk about one or two of those items.
10. Have you ever been convicted by any Federal, State or any other law enforcement authorities for any violation of Federal, State, County, or municipal law, regulation, or ordinance?
Tip: This may appear on your application. If so, answer truthfully. If you are offered the job, they will most likely do a background check and its better to be forth-coming with this information. For many companies, this does not omit you as a candidate for the position. If asked about it during the interview, find the positive and talk about how you have moved on from this discretion. There is no need to go into detail. If the interviewer is concerned about your credibility, mention that you can provide a list of professional references that would be able to vouch for your character.
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