Articles
Social Media in the Job Search
When starting the arduous process of looking for a job, most people do not think to look on social media sites. Many job seekers flock to sites like Indeed.com, Monster, and others, but neglect to look for job openings on LinkedIn, Facebook, and even Twitter (yes, companies do post job openings on Twitter sometimes). In fact, the majority job openings are not publicly advertised. Yes, you read that right, most jobs are not advertised to the public, meaning that job seekers who don’t broaden their search beyond wanted ads are stuck applying...
read more3 Important Things You Must Know About Researching Companies on LinkedIn
3 Important Things You Must Know About Researching Companies on LinkedIn How much time do you spend using the Companies search on LinkedIn? Whether you’re actively job searching or looking to build professional relationships, you might be overlooking this valuable feature. Following are 3 essential ways to use the Companies search on LinkedIn: To run a company search, use the drop down bar next to the blue magnifying glass icon at the top of your page. Select “Companies” from the list, and type in the name of business you want to learn more...
read moreThings to Avoid When Choosing a New Career
Things to Avoid When Choosing a New Career There comes a time for many us when we pause and take a close look at the work we do. It would be great if these pauses could be built into our professional lives but they rarely are. This kind of soul searching usually crops up when we are experiencing some sort of crisis. This can take many forms, from problems getting along with co-workers to a questioning of the value and purpose of work. Ideas about doing something else can arise out of this crisis. This can be a great opportunity for positive...
read moreWe Want Your Used Sleeping Bags!
Did you know that gently used sleeping bags are the biggest need for the homeless in our community? Matt Peckerman with BSA Troop 88 in Windsor has partnered with Career Solutions Group and Homeless Gear to help the homeless survive the cold winter so he is asking for YOUR used sleeping bags OR a small $20 cash donation and ‘Homeless Gear’ will buy a new sleeping bag for the homeless! Drop off your used sleeping bags OR make your donations throughout the month of September to Career Solutions Group— 430 Stover Street in Fort Collins...
read moreFinding Meaningful Work
Finding Meaningful Work For me a “job” is work you do for the money. You may be no more connected to it than a paycheck. A “career” suggests a personal investment (i.e., in education and training), progression over time (i.e., promotions, greater responsibility, a ladder to climb), and a connection between your personal idea of a purposeful life and the work that you do. Many of us want a career but may not know how to find it. Here are some ideas. Self Knowledge You may have taken tests that are designed to provide you with information about...
read moreNot Happy at Work? Three Questions to Ask Before Seeking a Change
Not Happy at Work? Three Questions to Ask Before Seeking a Change “A state of well-being and contentment; a pleasurable or satisfying experience” – Merriam-Webster Dictionary definition of happiness. Happiness is an elusive concept and means different things to different people and changes over time. Volumes have been written happiness for centuries. Sometimes it feels like understanding happiness can be as challenging as actually experiencing it. In our work lives there are many paths to happiness (and unhappiness) and those paths are...
read morePreparation and Questions at a Job Interview
Job interviews are critical elements in getting a job. You have many opportunities to craft your resume, improve your cover letter, enhance your LinkedIn profile, and cultivate your professional network. There are few opportunities to practice job interview skills. I have conducted dozens of job interviews as a hiring manager and found that many candidates are great on paper but fall apart during the interview – and I don’t think I was ever particularly imposing and I certainly hope I was never mean. Here are some ideas on what how to...
read moreSuccessful Career Planning Over 40
Some of us insist that we will never grow up. But no matter how we feel on the inside, we all age on the outside for everyone to see. For many, decade birthdays seem especially meaningful and the big 4-0 can hit people hard. But what does this mean for you and your career? Well, it means after working for a significant period of time you have developed a wealth of experience and skills. You can choose to stay where you are, or you can decide to move on. But should you be worried? Are you too old to change jobs or careers? Your mind is really...
read moreHow to Be at Your Best in a World of Change and Challenge
There is a wide range of ideas about what it means to have a successful career—it’s up to you to come up with your own definition. Some people are happiest climbing the career ladder into positions of increasing authority, visibility, and compensation. Others are most satisfied in a job where they are able to do what they love and have stability. Maybe you see work not a career but as a job—something you do to make money that enables you to pursue interests or adventures that give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment. All of these—and many...
read more5 Quick Tips About Networking on LinkedIn for Introverts
I’m on LinkedIn; now what? This question is frequently posed once someone’s set up an account and is stymied by “what’s next.” What should you being doing with your LinkedIn profile? How do you use LinkedIn to network effectively, especially if you’re not a naturally outgoing person? Picture yourself in a real-life networking situation. There are people moving easily around the room, making introductions, and gathering contact information to follow up with later. If this makes your heart race with anxiety, then building your network online...
read more