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Recent Graduates and Today’s Job Search – Part 1

Posted on August 22, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

As summer starts to wind down and our May graduates who have taken the summer off are hopefully starting to think about their careers, I am offering a career series of information to my readers. Often, I am contacted by desperate parents seeking assistance to get their recently graduated child out of the house and into the workforce. I hear it all….

References Available Upon Request

Posted on August 2, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Whenever I see this line on a resume, I often scratch my head and say to myself “Really?” Well of course a candidate should make references available upon request. So, stating the obvious is a waste of time and adds absolutely no value to the document. I never put this line on a resume. However, they truly must be available…

It Happens

Posted on July 13, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

It happens! Sometimes we really prepare and the interview goes south, sometimes we didn’t give the interview the preparation that it deserved. Even if you really bombed the interview, that does not mean that all is lost and you should write off that opportunity. Wouldn’t it be better to leave that potential employer with a positive impression? Keep in mind,…

Your Resume: Save or Trash?

Posted on May 31, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

If your resume is not winning quality interviews – then consider that what you are sending out is ineffective. Your resume has approximately 6 seconds to make a lasting impression. 5-4-3-2-1. That’s it! Then it’s either in the trash can or in the “save” to call for an interview pile. Below are 3 quick questions to see if your resume…

Job Search Sabotage

Posted on May 18, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

So, you’ve just graduated from college and your about to start a job-search. Will your efforts be successful, or will you shoot yourself in the foot during the process? In July, 2011, statistics showed that the unemployment rate for bachelor’s degree graduates under the age of 25 was the highest on record; 13.1%. While it is easy to succumb to…

How Do I Get My Resume to Land on the Top of the Pile? (and to stay out of the trashcan) Tip # 7 – Don’t Waste My Time!

Posted on April 27, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

One of the biggest mistakes a person can make on their resume is wasting the reader’s time. When a recruiter or hiring manager has a stack 2 feet high of potential applicants, they do not want their time wasted. If your resume is not easy to navigate and does not get to the point quickly, it will end up in…

How Do I Get My Resume to Land on the Top of the Pile? (and to stay out of the trashcan) Tip # 6 – Lack of Experience?

Posted on April 19, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Parents of recent college graduates may ask why some students are successful procuring a position after college and others are not. Often, students are lacking needed skills and experience and this makes the difference. Classroom education is only one component of post-college preparation. If your student has buried his/her head in the books for 4 years, or spent summers having…

How Do I Get My Resume to Land on the Top of the Pile? (and to stay out of the trashcan) Tip # 5 – Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute!

Posted on April 10, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Don’t let great job opportunities “pass you over;” hop to it! The last thing you want is to have a chance meeting with someone or get introduced to someone who asks for your resume and you are unprepared! Or, they say they will look you up on LinkedIn, and they can’t find you! Job searching today is a proactive activity….

How Do I Get My Resume to Land At the Top of the Pile? (and to stay out of the trashcan) Tip # 4 – Hobbies & Interests Section?

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

At one time, this was a standard feature. With the exception of the entry-level graduate (and then only if it is relevant to the job search), this section is not recommended. What does the potential employer think if you have listed your high golf-score or all of the volunteer work that you do at the school? Do they think you…

How Do I Get My Resume to Land At the Top of the Pile? (and to stay out of the trashcan) Tip #3 – Professionalism

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Competition is fierce and professionalism is crucial for job-seekers! So how can we make sure that the resume reflects a professional image? Contact information needs to be clear and accurate. One designated phone number is best, and that number must have a professional voicemail (in your own voice), stating your name and asking for the person to leave a message. …

How Do I Get My Resume to Land on the Top of the Pile? (and to stay out of the trashcan) Tip #2 – Less is Not Always More

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Length of the Resume Who told you that resumes must be 1 page? I rarely create a 1-page resume, and when I do, it is generally a recent graduate who has had little experience. If you have been in the workforce for more than a few years, then your resume will most likely be 2 pages. A solid resume is…

How Do I Get My Resume to Land on the Top of the Pile? (and to stay out of the trashcan) Tip #1 – Cut and Paste?

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

The Profile: Can someone else cut and paste what you wrote and put it on their resume? If the answer is yes, then it’s time to re-write your resume. A resume is a marketing tool. The #1 goal of a resume is to get an employer to call you and schedule an interview. Employers are looking at hundreds of resumes…

Is Your Facebook Hurting Your Employment Opportunities?

Posted on March 25, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

The Associated Press published an interesting article this week entitled “Employers ask job seekers for Facebook passwords.” While some may say that they do not want to work for a company that is delving into their personal life, others are afraid that in this competitive job-market, they cannot afford to be turned down because they won’t turn off their privacy…

Hide and Seek – The Hidden Job Market

Posted on February 28, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Do you spend all of your time scouring the job boards for a job and wonder why you can’t find one? Then it’s no wonder why you aren’t out there interviewing. (Companies hide the jobs, yet you continue seeking and not finding any.) The hidden job market is a term used to describe jobs that aren’t posted online or advertised….

Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Make Me a Match!

Posted on February 14, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

As Valentine’s Day approaches, images of hearts, flowers, and Cupid come to mind. I have always thought of Cupid as an extraordinary Talent Acquisition Manager. After all, just think of some of the “job requisitions” that come across his desk! Are the position requirements realistic? I am reminded of the lyrics in Fiddler on the Roof’s infamous song, Matchmaker. “For Papa, make him…

Interview Tip for the Suburban Job Seeker

Posted on February 10, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Even if the interview went exceptionally well, applicant beware! If the person interviewing you offers to walk you to your car, they may have ulterior motives to basic courtesy. If your car is a mess, your potential employer may make a determination about your future work habits. Also, your car may be saying too much! Personal information does not belong…

Get Off Your “Buts”

Posted on January 30, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

According to a recent survey by CollegeGrad.com, entry-level jobs have increased by 22 percent from last year. That’s the highest percentage in 3 years. So, if you are a recent college graduate and have given up on finding that entry-level job, it is time to get off your “buts.” But, there are no jobs. But, I’ve sent my resume out…

Quantify Your Achievements

Posted on January 23, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

Resume Tip Quantify your achievements. Numbers and percentages help to create a visual for your reader of how much value you offer. Which example sounds better? Increased Food and Beverage / banquet revenue OR Partnered with Executive Chef and increased banquet revenue by 75% within the first year. Captured an additional $750,000 in F&B revenue by increasing dining venue usage…

Fighting the Unemployment Blues and Staying Motivated

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Michelle Riklan

The national unemployment rate fell to 8.5%, the lowest in nearly 3 years. While we seem to be moving in the right direction, this is not a window of opportunity to “go easy” on your job search. It’s a time to become even more persistent and stay ahead of the competition! While being unemployed can be emotionally challenging and stressful,…

New Year Career Resolutions

Posted on December 21, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

As the new year approaches, many of us are in “resolution” mode. What changes do we want to make for 2012? What commitments do we want to make for ourselves and for others? It is a great time to reflect on our careers, evaluate where we have been, and decide where we are heading. Here are a few thoughts to…

CAREER CHANGE – Do I Stay or Do I Go?

Posted on November 16, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

In difficult economic times and with the national unemployment average holding steady in the 9 percent range, making a career change may be a scary prospect. It is certainly not impossible, but the possibility must be approached strategically and realistically. Statistically, people change jobs 9 times during their lifetime and change careers 4 times. There are many reasons why; downsizing/layoff,…

A Proactive Job Search

Posted on October 5, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

A recent New York Times article states that “a growing share of recent college graduates are having to settle for jobs that do not require a college degree, and they are earning less than their peers as a result.” Statistics show that the employment status of college graduates under age 25 is as follows: 22.4% — Not Working. 22.0% —…

RESUME SPA TREATMENTS—Does Yours Need a Makeover?

Posted on August 17, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

What is a resume and why is it a critical document? A resume is a personal marketing tool with one purpose—to get you an interview. Statistically, a potential employer will take less than 20 seconds to scan your resume and determine if they will continue reading, place it on top of the pile for immediate consideration, or toss it. How…

THE BOOMERANG GENERATION – How can we help you?

Posted on June 27, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

So what exactly is a “Boomeranger?” In short, it is a term to describe Gen-Xers and Gen-Yers who have moved back home with parents and family, in response to the current recession. While this situation may provide financial relief for the young adult, there are many facets to this arrangement that need exploring. Often after an “unsuccessful” job hunt, a…

Practice for your interview… and get the job offer.

Posted on June 9, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

You finally received a call for a potential position that sounds perfect. Preparing, you make several crisp copies of your résumé, check the route to the office, clean your car, get your favorite interview outfit from the cleaners, and dress yourself appropriately. You’ve spent hours researching the company, understanding the position and getting a solid sense of how your talents…

Top 5 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search

Posted on May 10, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

1. Keeping it Quiet For whatever the reason, you are not putting yourself out there. Even if you have been laid off or fired, you need to network. It is the most effective way to find a new position. But, if no-one knows you are looking, no-one will call. 2. Not Searching at All I hear so often that “there…

Dress for Success

Posted on February 16, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

We hear this phrase all too often, but what does it mean in today’s job market? How are we expected to dress for a networking event? Does it vary from a first interview? A second interview? How much impact does that first impression have and does it matter what you are wearing? The answer is absolutely YES, it matters. It…

Are you LinkedIn?

Posted on January 4, 2011 by Michelle Riklan

Before the job is posted and advertised, where does the recruiter/HR professional/hiring manager look for potential candidates? Before they even hit the job boards, they are on LinkedIn. And, if you are not there, then you don’t exist. Let me repeat that – IF YOU ARE NOT LINKEDIN, YOU DO NOT EXIST. People who are in talent acquisition and recruiting…

Does Your Résumé Have Enough Gravy or is it a Dry Turkey?

Posted on November 24, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

As we prepare for the holiday season, I find myself comparing my work to feast preparations. Is there a difference between a well prepared holiday feast and a microwaveable frozen dinner in a box?

Interview Pre-Planning and Planning – Part 2

Posted on November 10, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

You’ve dressed appropriately, looking your best, carefully planned your route to arrive 15 minutes early. Your homework is done and you have a clear understanding of the positon, a solid overview of the company and you are ready to put your best foot forward. Now what?

Interview Pre-Planning and Planning – Part 1

Posted on October 26, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

We can never know for sure who will be sitting across from the desk and interviewing us for that dream job. A Recruiter? Hiring Manager? CEO? Human Resources? Are they an experienced interviewer? Have a clear understanding of the open position? Are they the gatekeeper or the decision maker? Since we do not know for sure, we cannot assume that we know what will be asked and how the interview will be conducted. Our best line of defense with the many unknowns of the job interview is “BE PREPARED”.

Common Resume Myths and Mistakes

Posted on September 11, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

If you ask 10 people what they think of your resume, you will get 10 different opinions. Resume writing is not an absolute process and must be individualized to best market the job seeker. There is no definitive or best way to write a resume. Every career counselor, recruiter and hiring manager will have his/her preferences. However, there are common…

Publishing Opportunity: “101 Great Ways to Enhance Your Career”

Posted on August 9, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

Publishing Opportunity: “101 Great Ways to Enhance Your Career” Our new print book project on Career Enhancement is in motion! The working title for the book is: “101 Great Ways to Enhance Your Career” Briefly, we will incorporate 101 articles or short chapters from 101 Experts in career related industries. Each Expert will provide one article along the theme of…

Unemployment and Career Transitions, Challenges and Opportunities

Posted on August 9, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

The current national unemployment rate is 9.6%, with New Jersey equaling that number and being one of the highest state percentages in the nation. In the face of fierce competition for the available positions, perhaps it is a good time to evaluate options and explore opportunities. First, let’s address some of the key issues when facing unemployment or a career…

They Can Hear You in Your Pajamas

Posted on July 1, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

(and taking the job search seriously) We live in a world today that brings a completely new meaning to “multitasking.” Potential employers call about our resume while we’re driving to the soccer field and deals are negotiated in the supermarket produce section. With virtual offices, tele-conferences, e-summits and Skype, we need to be aware of the types of messages that…

Returning to the Workforce

Posted on June 2, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

People return to the workforce for many reasons: Stay at home parents are ready to resume or start a career. Financial changes have dictated a need. Retired persons are bored with retirement or need extra money. Business owners are looking for an opportunity to work for a company. Whatever the reason, hundreds of thousands of people are attempting to return to the…

Job Seeking Tips For the College Grad

Posted on May 2, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

New reports show that graduating college students have had 40% fewer job prospects and the outlook for 2010 is not much more promising. So what’s the new graduate to do? There are jobs out there. Now your job is to be the one who gets one! Know what you are selling and market it properly. The Product Yes, you…

Interview Strategies

Posted on April 1, 2010 by Michelle Riklan

In the course of my career I have interviewed thousands of individuals seeking employment at all levels from the entry-level college graduate to the Chief Financial Officer. While my experience spans across a wide variety of industries, the interview mistakes that I’ve seen are constant. Once you have procured a meeting with a potential employer, there is a tremendous amount…

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