As we are still in the midst of a global pandemic, these past few months have been a world-wind for me. I've had many celebrations (anniversaries, birthdays) deaths and new business opportunities all going on at once. But now I've had some time to settle in so here I am. Back to listening to my music and getting into my writing groove. In case it's not obvious, I love music! Most people are hooked on the beat but there's something about the lyrics that gets me every time. Any who, I've had several opportunities lately to coach a few clients on job search strategies and interviewing lately. I've also spoken with many professionals who are at varying places within their career. Some unsure if they want to continue down the path they are currently on while others are interested in doing something more fulfilling and meaningful. And of course, others have mentioned they are riding the wave before making any sudden movements. While there is no wrong or right answer to your career trajectory, everyone is different and their situation is unique. However, in the midst of an ever-changing employment landscape, my professional opinion to all situations remains the same: LEVEL UP. Now, what do I mean by that? Simply put, leveling up means to " keep elevating, take no losses, just upgrades " ! So in other words, look for ways to prepare and position yourself for success despite your current situation. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that nothing in life is guaranteed. Nothing is guaranteed to change... Nothing is guaranteed to remain the same.. Nothing is guaranteed to exist for eternity. As the old saying goes, "prepare for the unexpected and whenever possible, be the unexpected (L. Barry). I believe both components of this statement is true but the latter is truly a way to gain a competitive edge. Being the unexpected is a sure fire way to level up in your career search and standout as a candidate. There are several ways to level up but I've shared a few below that would help you level up and increase your chances of success. Take some time to up-skill or re-skill - Always wanted to work on your presentation skills? Join a Toastmasters club in your area, seek out virtual groups on Meetup.com or attend a workshop to gain more insight on ways to improve your public speaking and presentation skills. Perhaps you wanted to improve your Excel skills? Why not take an advanced course to step up your game. T ake on additional responsibilities - Is there a new project within your group or organization on the horizon? Show your enthusiasm by signing up to lead the project. What a way to enhance your leadership skills as well as showcase your ability to take initiative. This can also translate to amazing content on your resume. Reverse-engineer your career search - Instead of starting with job titles that you are interested in pursuing, start researching and identifying companies that align with your career aspirations and values. Think of individuals in your current career field or transitioning career field that you admire? If you are looking for a place that offers unlimited growth, research companies that are known for investing in their talent and catapulting careers. Leverage LinkedIn to build relationships within your desired company and to understand why people enjoy working there. Seek out virtual networking opportunities - Although what you know is necessary, often times who you know is just the jewel that solidifies the golden opportunity you have been waiting for. Set a weekly goal to connect with one person a week and build your network one person at a time. Job searching during a pandemic can be challenging and overwhelming for sure but remaining patient, flexible and understanding throughout the process can help alleviate some of the pressure. Stay encouraged and up-to-date with hiring trends! But most of all, stay positive. Confessions of a Resume Writer
Let me turn my music down a minute to focus. (Listening to my favorite rapper, Drake). I've been asked a few times why resume writing? Okay, maybe more like 2 dozen times, from family, friends, business owners at networking events and the likes. It's the most highly sought and asked question I receive when someone inquiry about my job. My typical answer sounds like this... (Mm...Clears throat) I've been in the HR field for quite some time, mostly as a recruiter so I have the knowledge and expertise from a sourcing, strategy, ATS friendly and communication perspective. Straight-forward, right? Wrong!! While everything I mentioned above is true, there is another 2/3rd of the puzzle that I rarely mention for several reasons. It's a very long and complicated history with destiny and more importantly, I'd never felt comfortable sharing that piece of the puzzle. The short story is simple. It's the title of this blog but I wouldn't dare make you scroll to the top of the post just to figure it out. Plus, there is so much more to story.. But simply put, it is GOD’S PLAN . See, it was revealed to me at an early age that I had a knack for words. My teachers always mentioned that I was a great writer and nevertheless, my sisters and friends sung the same song. As years past, God informed me that I will be a writer in some capacity, helping people. My answer: Kanye Shrug... After college, I was met with the obvious "So, Larisa, What are you going to do now since you graduated?" My answer: "I don't know." With that being said, I took the first job offered to me making $8.75 per hour. Disappointment is an understatement. I enjoyed the job but absolutely despised the pay. I'm sure you can understand why. Long story short, God confirmed once again that I would be a writer, helping people. However, this time he (God) mentioned that I would help people in their career (resumes). Now let me pause to say, I grew up pretty shy and timid so I went along to get along in most cases. But in this case, I mustered up confidence from somewhere and proclaimed with direct authority "No!" Again, I discounted the thought and continued to work my own plan.. And as I was working my plan, God was also working his plan. Needless to say, his plan prevailed. I thought okay bummer right. Wrong again. See, throughout the journey, I learned some important things about myself. One, I did not think I would enjoy writing all day. It reminds me of reading and I am definitely not a reader (no offense to readers). Two, I am not a people's person. In fact, I am quite shy. If you ask a question, I would answer it. Nothing more, nothing less. Three, I am not a fan of being a sales woman. I am terrible at it. More-so, I have a take it or leave it approach which consist of the initial offer followed by a yes or no. No haggling, no persuasion, nada!!!! Fourth and ultimately, the biggest reason is more of a double edge sword. I dispelled this calling because it exposed my greatest weakness.. I didn't believe in myself. I just knew God had it all wrong. How could I help? Help them with what? I struggled in the same area? It didn't make sense. But the reality was, he had it right all alone. And for every excuse I gave (reference above), a reason was revealed. And then everything just clicked. I realized that I am helping people like me. People that didn't see or understand their value... People that could not articulate that value on paper... People who knew they were qualified but couldn't understand what was going wrong... People who wanted and needed to stand out among the crowd... People who struggle to understand what hiring managers and recruiters are truly looking for... People who were in some cases just like me. So to speak, I am just a tool used to positively impact people's lives by sharing knowledge, truth and confidence to inspire people in advancing their career and obtaining success. Although I couldn't see the vision of Chic Resumes and Services then, I truly do now. And in the world of resume writing, my goal is simple: to leave a lasting (better know as CHIC ) impression on those reading and listening. In the words of Drake " I thank God for what’s happening right now" . Now, back to my music… -Confessions of a Resume Writer-
