Q. “After ten years in a university community outreach office, I’m ready to join the corporate world. But interviewers ask me why I’ve stayed so long in the nonprofit sector.” A. When faced with tough questions, most of us begin by feeling defensive. Instead, at the first sign of attack, begin to claim your bragging rights. […]
Career Advice and Opinions
Choosing a career coach or consultant
Q. I need a new career! My friend recommended a coach but how do I know whether she’s a good choice for me? Or maybe I need a counselor instead? A. Two bits of general advice: First, before going further, clear the decks. Career change takes time and energy – rarely possible if you’re working […]
Social Media Mistake: Too Needy Or Not Busy Enough
Mistake #1: “I’ve got clients who could use your skills. Please sign up to chat on this TimeTrade page.” Well, I was curious but not enough to commit to a 15-minute interview. It might be a great opportunity for someone else and I could recommend them. So I wrote back: “Can you share more of […]
Career advice: Law of (natural) attraction?
With all the buzz about Law of Attraction, it’s easy to forget that we attract naturally when we behave a certain way. For example: My young neighbor was grinning from ear to ear. After a few months of solitude, he now found himself overwhelmed with offers to go out. He’s dating a couple of great […]
Overcome age discrimination? You must be kidding …
A 63-year-old man keeps sending out resumes. A well-meaning newspaper column advises him on tips to “overcome age discrimination.” I say, “Good luck.” By definition, discrimination can’t be overcome. It’s not rational. It’s not based on facts. And, quite bluntly, corporate executives have no reason to hire older workers. Often they make what appears to […]
Career Advice: Can You Sneak Out For Fun In The Sun?
Not surprisingly, everyone they asked said, “Don’t do it!” Well, if you’re going to be quoted in a national newspaper, would you advise readers to lie? Think of the liability, if nothing else. Frankly, I think we need to question why we measure our value in hours, days, months and years. You do your work, […]