6/4/09: Top Career Posts this Week
Every week I check dozens of “career” blogs and other online publications, looking for things that will help you find a job, get promoted, develop your skills, and keep everything in perspective and balance. Here’s the pick of the lot for this week. I’m pointing you to items about telephone interviews, learning to let go (a little), how to quit, tips on interviewing, and how to be happy at work.
From the Wall Street Journal: The New Trouble on the Line
“Job seekers, beware the telephone. For years, the phone interview was a preliminary step that allowed an employer to give a candidate the once-over and schedule an in-person interview. But these days, many recruiters are using the phone interview to pose the kinds of in-depth questions previously reserved for finalists. What’s more, job hunters say the bar for getting to the next level has been raised much higher, catching many of them off-guard.”
Wally’s Comment: The times they are a’changin’ and one place is the role of the phone interview in the hiring process. Learn how not to go down in flames before you even realize what’s happening.
From Recession Wire: The Zen of Job Hunting
“Yes, it’s a tough job market. Yes, it’s important to be looking after your career. But that doesn’t mean obsessing over your resume, growing pale and wan because you spend hours each day scouring the internet for openings.”
Wally’s Comment: Sometimes we just get way too intense about the job hunt. Sometimes the best thing to do is to step back, take a deep breath and let the game come to you.
From Harvard Business: How to Quit Your Job with Style
“Quitting is obviously not for everyone in this tough economic climate. But if you do decide to quit, what’s the best way to go about it? The simple answer is with style — but without the flair. Here’s how.”
Wally’s Comment: As the man says, if you’re going to quit, here’s how.
From Microsoft Jobsblog: Tips and Advice vs. Giving Away the Farm
“I feel it’s time to introduce my top six pieces of Kenji® branded recruiter advice. Handle with care!”
Wally’s Comment: Great tips about things which ought to be common sense, but aren’t.
From the Happiness Project: Sixteen Tips for Feeling Happier at Work
“Being happy at work is, of course, quite related to how much you like your job, but there are small steps you can take to boost your mood. Maintaining the comfort of your body, sprinkling a few small pleasures throughout your day, using your time wisely – a little thought can mean a lot more happiness at work.”
Wally’s Comment: These tips will work for you even if your job is finding a job.