Carol Silvis Professional Touch Blog

Attain Your Goals

2012-01-26T15:33:00.000-08:00

It has been said that people who give up on their New Year’s resolutions do so within the first three weeks of the year. Don’t let your goals suffer the same fate and fall by the wayside.
Work on fulfilling your goals by eliminating excuses and taking action to bring them to fruition. Commit the necessary time, work, and dedication to the attainment of your goals.

Make time to meet your goals

Find out WHAT you need to do in order to reach your goal(s)

Find out HOW to do what you need to do to reach your goal(s)

Enlist help from others who have already reached goals similar to those you want to attain

Keep reminding yourself that you can do it

Break down big goals into manageable steps – create an action plan

Do something today--no matter how minor

Visualize reaching your goal(s). What have you accomplished in the past? How did you do it? How did it feel to have succeeded? How can you use this feeling of success to reach another of your goals?

Goal Setting Time - Again

2012-01-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

It’s the first week of a new year and new resolutions for many of us. Even if you do not make New Year’s resolutions, you should set goals for yourself. It’s a fact that people who set goals achieve more. Why not give yourself all the breaks you can get? Here are a few goal setting tips:

· Create a specific, measurable goal from one of your hopes or dreams.
· Break the goal down into specific steps you can take to reach the goal.
· Create a plan of action by listing the steps you can take to reach the goal.
· Set a timetable for reaching the goal.
· Determine how you will hold yourself accountable for reaching the goal.
· Take action by copying the steps from your action plan onto your daily to-do list.
· Assess how you are doing periodically regarding the achievement of the goal.
· Change what is not working.

With a set goal and enough of the right action, you can achieve your dreams.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-23T13:19:00.000-08:00

I have already started enjoying the holiday parties and time with friends. May all of you enjoy this special time of year and take the time to enjoy each precious moment with those you love.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

Enjoy the Holiday Season

2011-12-16T10:46:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is once again upon us. It seems it comes around more quickly each year. Perhaps that is a clue that our lives are too busy. This holiday season, take time to enjoy the companionship of family and friends. Children grow up and move away, parents and other loved ones pass on. Don't look back one day and regret not having enjoyed the precious moments.

Take time to enjoy the holiday season.

Listen to your favorite Christmas carols and holiday music.

Enjoy the festive decorations.

Bake cookies and fudge.

Instead of thinking about all you have to do, sit back and relax for a few minutes.

Visit shut-ins and the elderly.

Dress in your holiday attire and accept those party and dinner invitations.

Spread cheer wherever you go.

Adopt an animal from a shelter.

Attend to your spiritual side.

Balancing work, play, spirituality, and health is the best way to enjoy the holidays and every day.

Tis the season. Slow down and enjoy it.

Time to Assess Career Accomplishments

2011-12-05T06:39:00.000-08:00

As we begin the ending month of the year, it is a time to reflect on how our careers have progressed throughout the year. Your boss and your company will hold you accountable for your workplace behavior and accomplishments. Go one better and hold yourself accountable. Ask yourself if you have:

Performed your tasks to the best of your ability, completing them in a timely manner

Maintained a positive attitude daily

Adhered to a strict code of personal behavior

Kept skills up to date and learn new ones as required

Became an expert in your field

Used good judgment

Spoke kindly and tactfully

Taking responsibility for your actions and words will preserve your value to the boss and company.

Thanksgiving - Family, Friends, Your Job and Success

2011-11-19T06:43:00.000-08:00

As we draw closer to Thanksgiving, it is time to give thanks for those people and things for which we are grateful. Spend time in reflection and with family and friends. If you are one of the fortunate ones to have a good job in this turbulent economy, do all you can to make yourself valuable to the company and the boss.

Take advantage of every opportunity to become an expert in your field.

Establish positive behavior that gets noticed by supervisors.

Develop excellent customer service and decision making skills.

Be a self-directed worker who performs duties with proficiency.

Take on extra responsibilities cheerfully and help others.

Don't forget to give thanks in all areas of your life--spiritual, physical, mental, and social. Include family, friends, pets, health, well-being, peace of mind, talents, and so forth.

Keep the Stress out of Thanksgiving--Be Grateful

2011-11-11T13:06:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving will be here in a couple of weeks. It's a good time to remember to take care of ourselves and keep stress to a minimum. Here are some stress-reducing tips:

Be grateful for what you have. At the beginning of each day, reflect on your blessings and the people who complete your life.

Don't let little aggravations overshadow the important ones.

Count the things that are going right in your life, not those going wrong.

Take a break when you feel yourself getting stressed. Don't wait until you are overwhelmed.

Keep close to family and friends during this and other holidays.

Burn a candle with one of the wonderful stress-reducing fragrances like lavender or vanilla.

Take a mini vacation in your mind.

Enjoy yourself.

Remember Thanksgiving is about being thankful.

Polish That Resume - Meet Employer Needs

2011-11-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

The unemployment rate dipped slightly this week. Now might be a good time to dust off the resume and re-circulate it. Whether you are looking for a new job or hoping to snag a better one, you need to be able to bring value to the company in order to be considered for an interview.

Take a good look at your skills. What do you do best? What is the company looking for in a job candidate? Do you match the company's needs? You should concentrate your search where your skills match the employer's needs.

Think about your work history. Have you included all tasks you have completed that bring out your best talents and abilities? Did you receive any special recognition or awards? Were you promoted? How was your attendance and punctuality? Were you a team player? Can you work with little or no supervision?

By thinking about what employers want from their employees, you can better prepare a resume to fit those needs and perhaps score an interview.

Be Prepared--Create Positive Opportunities

2011-10-29T06:09:00.000-07:00

It's still October, but snow has arrived in Pittsburgh, bringing with it a lesson--always be prepared. That's a good lesson for all of us to remember every day. Be prepared. You never know what opportunities or misfortunes might show up on any given day. I prefer to look on the positive side and think each day will bring new opportunities.

Many people miss opportunities they don't realize were presented to them until long after they are gone. Don't let that happen to you. Be on the lookout for opportunities that will improve your personal and your professional life. Here are some ways you can create your own opportunities or take advantage of ones presented to you.

Help others improve their lives

Bring happiness to others

Assist coworkers with their tasks

Assist the boss with special projects or find other ways to make his job easier

Ask for help when you need it

Reflect on the positives in your life and be thankful

Focus on the important things

Commit to being open to opportunities

With an awareness of what is going on around us, we can all be better prepared.

Job Fairs and the Employment Search

2011-10-14T06:20:00.001-07:00

I took several of my students to a job fair at a local university, which turned out to be a rewarding experience for these students. They handed out resumes and business cards and shook hands with employers. They received a few encouraging remarks and were asked to submit resumes or go on the companies' online site and fill out an application. Some even scheduled interviews. I received value input from employers that I can pass along to future students.

I sometimes hear people speak negatively of job fairs. Isn't it better, though, to get out and meet employers and other job seekers than to skip the opportunity? It only takes one contact to get that job.

Job fairs may not be high on your list during your employment search, but they should be. There is a lot to be said for personal contact and building a network. Even if you do not get an offer for an interview or are not asked to fill out an application, you are acticely looking for work. The more times you get out there, the more chances you have of making the right contact for you and landing a job.

Remember, job fairs can provide an opportunity to:

Network with other professionals

Meet other job seekers and trade job hunting strategies

Meet employers face to face and submit a resume

Put yourself out there in the employment arena.

Don't discount opportunities to find employment, especially in this tight job market. You must be persistent.

Motivate Yourself for the Job Search

2011-09-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

I just wrote a column on motivation for my writers' group newsletter and thought about how people searching for employment must keep themselves motivated throughout the job search. In this economy with its shortage of jobs, it's sometimes hard to get motivated or keep motivated in the face of rejections.

Here are a few motivational tips to help:

Determine specifically what you want. What type of job? In what industry? In what location? Doing what tasks? Set a goal rather than say, "I'll take anything."

Visualize being in that job. See yourself going to work, sitting at your workspace, doing your tasks.

Get yourself ready for employment. Update your skills if necessary. Everyone must know how to use a computer these days. If you do not, take an inexpensive or free class at a reputable school or agency.

Prepare a modern resume. Get help if necessary.

Practice interviewing with a friend, all the while visualizing that you are interviewing with the company of your dreams.

Get up everyday and do something to move yourself closer to getting a job. Inertia causes boredom and depression.

Find a mentor to help in your job search.

If you still have a hard time motivating yourself, find a cheerleader who will cheer you on and keep you motivated.

Take action every day even if it is a small step. It is by taking those daily steps that you can reach your goal of getting a job.

Job Search Tips

2011-09-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

If you are searching for a job or thinking of switching jobs, begin by creating a few good lists.

Make a list of everyone you know who can help you in your job search, including former bosses and coworkers, HR personnel, instructors, friends working in companies where you would like to work, and so forth.

Write down your strengths, your skills, and your personal characteristics. Be sure to include transferable skills--those that you learned somewhere along the way that could be useful to an employer; for example, customer service, sales, problem solving, etc.

List any skills or personal characteristics you need to work on improving. List ways in which you can accomplish this; for example, take a class, attend a seminar, read a self-help book, etc.

List specific achievements and positive results you have accomplished while on the job. Include specific amounts of money you saved the company or the percentage of increased sales you had.

List at least six reasons why an employer would want to hire you over other job candidates. Give specific examples of your worth to an employer.

Write down questions you think an employer might ask you and your answers to those questions.

Make a list of people you can use as a reference to attest to your work history and personal attributes.

Make a list of places where you can apply for a job.

Now that you have created these lists, use them in your job search.

Vacation

2011-08-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

I have been vacationing since August 11, driving across the United States. I just spent five days in Hollywood visiting my son. Everyone should take time to sit back and relax or see the sights. By refreshing ourselves, we can enjoy our work more and be able to give our best.

I will be posting more job related information and inspirational tips next week.

Polish Your Resume to Boost Your Interview Opportunities

2011-08-06T08:05:00.000-07:00

Looking for a new job or wanting to change jobs? Here are some tips for preparing a resume that will get you noticed:

Use a heading that includes your name (typed in bold and capitals), address, phone number (where you can be reached easily), and a professional-sounding email address.

Limit the resume to one or two pages--employers do not have time to read through several pages no matter how much experience you have.

Use a current style--check one of the many resume books or find a sample online.

Instead of using an objective, prepare a summary of your skills and accomplishments in two or three sentences.

List your work experiences chronologically backwards, highlighting accomplishments instead of just listing tasks.

Make sure your achievements stand out--you don't want them to be overlooked.

Show that you can deliver results and solve problems--demonstrate your skills through examples.

Use numbers, dollars, and percentages where possible.

Customize the resume to the specific ad you are answering or to the position you want.

Eliminate personal information such as health and marital status.

Proofread carefully and then have someone else proofread for you.

Once you polish your resume, send it out to as many places as possible. It cannot do the job if it is not circulated.

Thinking Positively in a Negative Economy

2011-08-01T16:48:00.001-07:00

How is your work attitude? Being out of work or stuck in a dead-end job is not the way most of us envision our work life; but in a poor economy, every employee must work hard to maintain a job or to land a new one. Unemployment or underemployment, however, can be devastating to self-esteem. That means each person in these situations will also have to work harder at maintaining a positive attitude. There is no other choice if you hope to be successful at work.

Do not berate yourself if you have no job or a low-level position; rather, remind yourself that most people go through several jobs and careers.

Do not tie your self-worth solely to your work; consider the sum of your talents, skills, and unique experiences.

Believe in yourself and your competency; upgrade your skills if needed.

Develop positive work habits.

Strategize ways to find more meaning in your work or more meaningful work.

Tell yourself you can conduct a successful job search.

Display enthusiasm during an interview and while you are working.

Set goals and persist in achieving them.

Be grateful.

Surround yourself with upbeat, positive people.

Call on your network when you are feeling down or when you need help with a job search.

Be positive; a positive attitude will help you move forward; replace negative thoughts with positive ones.

Become a problem solver.

Do something to improve your situation.

Make friends on LinkedIn and other professional networking sites.

Focus on what you have control over; forget about what you cannot control.

Are You Meeting Your Yearly Goals?

2011-07-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

With the year more than half over, it's a good time to revisit the career goals or plans you made at the beginning of the year. You still have several months to complete goals, to change them, or to set new ones. Look at each goal you have set and ask yourself these questions:

Is the goal still relevant today?

Have I taken steps toward completing the goal?

Have I reached the goal?

If I have not reached the goal, am I likely to reach it within the timeframe I have set?

Is there anything more I can do to reach my goal?

If your goal is still relevant, keep taking steps toward it or revise the steps that did not work. If the goal is no longer relevant, toss it. Could you or should you set new goals? If so, ask yourself these questions:

What new career goal should I set?

What are the steps I should take to reach this goal?

What is the timeframe for this goal?

What rewards will I gain by reaching this goal?

When you decide on new goals or make changes to established goals, write them down. Be specific and realistic. Set a deadline and have a way to measure whether you have reached the goal.

Attain Career Success Despite the Economy

2011-07-14T17:20:00.000-07:00

As the economy continues to suffer from weak job news, those of us who have jobs should be vigilant in maintaining them. To attain career success in the economy, concentrate on ways to be a valuable employee. Ask yourself these questions:

In what ways can you add value to your company?

What other responsibilities can you take on that will increase your worth to the employer?

What can you do to personally improve yourself (i.e. take a class, join a professional organization, learn a new skill, etc.)?

Can you make your boss's life easier?

Can you think of ways to save your employer money?

Can you think of ways to save your employer time?

Get a clear picture in your mind of what you can do to be successful on the job and then work towards it.

Keep Your Life in Balance

2011-07-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

Another holiday weekend provides us with another chance to balance our professional life and personal life through rest and relaxation. Here are some tips to keep your life in balance not only during a holiday weekend, but also throughout the year.

Develop a routine that allows just the right mix between time spent on your personal life and professional life. Too much time or too little time spent on either can upset the balance needed to live your best life.

Create a daily plan.

Focus on the tasks you absolutely have to do and downgrade the rest according to how necessary it is to complete them.

Forget about things you cannot change. Banish irrational and pointless worry.

When problems arise, step back and look for solutions. Do not let problems paralyze you.

Ask for help when you need it.

Keep work and ambitions in check--balance them with family, friends, hobbies, and interests.

Take a breather. Sit quietly and focus on your breathing for several minutes.

Keep company with people who lift you up, not those who tear you down.

Do your part in taking care of your health by eating right and exercising.

Let go of anger and grudges that erode your peace of mind.

Never lose sight of what is most important to you. Take time to relax and enjoy family and friends this Fourth of July. And remember the servicemen and servicewomen who sacrifice for us.

Refresh Yourself and Cut Stress

2011-06-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I did a TV interview near Philadelphia for my book Job Hunting After 50. Afterwards, I spend a couple of days at the ocean--relaxing--de-stressing. I believe everyone should see the ocean at least once a year. It's such a wonderful way to renew one's spirit. If that is not possible, though, there are some things you can do close to home to refresh and renew your mind, body, and spirit. Consider the following:

Take a day trip to some place you have been meaning to visit. Research your state's website or check out some back issues of regional magazines. There are all kinds of interesting sites tucked away in out-of-the-way places--sometimes close to your own backyard. Many are free to visit and enjoy.

Get personal with nature. Just being outside can, in many cases, help you de-stress. For the creative ones among us, nature can expand our creativity.

Plant a garden. Gardening is a great stress reliever. If you plant vegetables and herbs, you can enjoy their freshness at mealtime. If you prefer to plant flowers, you can enjoy their beauty indoors and outside. For the smaller space, use pots and containers. Planting flowers, shrubs, and trees will also help beautify and benefit our stressed environment.

Visit your local library, zoo, museum, science center, planetarium, conservatory, amusement park, or other entertaining site. On a tight budget? Check newspapers and websites for discount coupons or else visit a free park, playground, or lake.

Invite friends over for a backyard barbeque or pack up the cars and picnic at a local park or lake.

Build a backyard habitat for small animals, butterflies, or birds.

Sit on your deck or porch or in your favorite chair and make a gratitude list.

Join or create a book club that meets in person to discuss favorite readings.

Hopefully, this list will give you some ideas that will get you started on a relaxing summer.

Make Yourself Indispensable on the Job

2011-06-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

Continuing with the "hang onto your job" theme, I have added more ways to keep your job and get ahead in the workplace.

Speak kindly to everyone--every day.

Go above and beyond for your customers. If there is something special you can do, do it.

Go above and beyond for the boss by making yourself valuable to him or her.

If you must offer criticism, say something positive first.

Update your professional image.

Maintain a positive attitude at all times.

Maintain a "successful" mindset.

Make a plan for your advancement and write steps you can take toward that goal.

Look for solutions to problems.

Hone your leadership skills.

Stay away from troublemakers and gossips.

Be a results-oriented employee.

Taking appropriate steps today can lead to a rewarding career tomorrow.

Hang Onto Your Job

2011-06-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

The unemployment picture is not as rosy as economists earlier predicted, and the unemployment rate edged up a bit. Therefore, this blog will offer pointers on how to keep the job you have.

Be a team player and make an effort to get along with everyone at work--overlook the shortcomings of others (and maybe they will overlook your shortcomings, too).

Be productive all the hours you are at work--do more than the minimum required.

Accept personal responsibility for your work, including mistakes. Work to correct and not repeat mistakes.

Contribute to the overall success of the company--no personal calls, no personal work, no going aboard with socializing.

Display a positive work ethic at all times--go to work everyday, show up on time, work until quitting time, be honest and ethical at all times.

Become an expert on your company's products and services.

Keep your skills sharp and updated at all times.

Always ask yourself, "How can I add value to my boss and my company.

Look for Possibilities

2011-05-21T08:18:00.001-07:00

Well, I can't believe it but the Pennwriters conference has been over for a week now. I enjoyed myself and learned from many wonderful, insightful speakers.

One thing I tried to get across to conference attendees, especially newbies, was to take advantage of ALL opportunities and to be open to ALL possibilities. The same can be said for every day living.

Be open to people and things that come your way unexpectedly. The immediate benefit of a meeting or a piece of information may not be apparent at first.

Build long-term relationships and store each piece of information for future use.

Don't overlook the small things and the obvious things and people.

Learn as much as you can every day from every situation.

Look around today and be open to all that you see, do, hear, and encounter. You never know what precious things await.

Happy Mother's Day and Stress Management Tips

2011-05-07T09:05:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is tomorrow, which should have all of us reflecting on our mothers and the sacrifices they made for us.

Many sons and daughters today have elderly parents to care for as well as their own children. Here are some stress management tips for them and everyone feeling stressed these days:

Take stock of your activities to be sure you are living a balanced life. If not, make changes. When one area of your life is out of balance, you will not be able to do yourself or anyone else any good.

Establish priorities and stick to them.

Start a gratitude journal and make a few entries every day.

Strike negative words from your vocabulary. Let go of worries.

Skip the news and read a good book.

Eat healthy.

Learn something new--exercise your mind.

Keep in touch with friends and relatives who add joy and fun to your life. Share with them.

Meditate.

Take it one day at a time.

Keep up your sense of humor. Watch comedies and uplifting movies.

Enjoy the outdoors. Take walks, work in the garden, tend to the flowers--get in touch with nature. (Take Mom with you.)

Clean up clutter around your home. Clutter adds stress.

Create a workable budget and stick to it.

Job Tips

2011-04-29T14:36:00.001-07:00

This morning I did a workshop/book signing for my book Job Hunting After 50. Two of the best pieces of advice I gave the audience were to embrace technology and to update.

Employers are using technology more and more to advertise jobs--LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter have become favorite ways of getting the word out about job openings and finding perspective employees. If you are not on these networking sites, sign up today.

As for the updating part, that includes everything from using current resume formats to wearing modern hairstyles and clothing to researching companies online to learning the latest software and skills companies need.

Although a lot more goes into a job search, doing these with greatly enhance your prospects when looking for a job.

Take Time to Enjoy

2011-04-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Take time this Easter to enjoy family and friends and to renew yourself spiritually. Living a balanced personal and professional life is crucial to your successful well being. Too much attention to your professional life to the exclusion of your personal life will cause you to miss out on important "self" time. Too much attention to your personal life and not enough attention to your professional life will stagnate your career. Develop a routine that fits your lifestyle and make corrections when your life is out of balance.

Take time to maintain a healthy physical and mental balance.

Practice good time management and stress management techniques.

Get organized and stay that way.

Maintain a positive attitude.

When you think of balance, consider all areas of your life, including family, work, health, wealth, spiritual, hobbies, and everything else that fits together to make up your life plan. Balance in all areas of your life is the key to a contented life.

Are You Meeting Your Goals?

2011-04-16T08:16:00.001-07:00

Today is a rather rainy spring day. It seems like a good time to stay inside and revisit your goals. Think about the following questions:

How are you coming with your personal and professional goals?

Have you made the progress you intended to make when you set them?

Is there anything else you can do to move yourself closer to your goals?

Can you revise or rewrite your steps for attaining your goals?

Are there goals on your list that you should remove or revise?

If you have met most of your goals, can you think of new ones to set?

Taking time to assess goals and, if needed, revise and rewrite them will keep you motivated and on track to personal and professional success.

Cultivate a Successful Career

2011-04-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Today is April Fool's Day. Don't be fooled by thinking career success will automatically happen without much input on your part. Career success needs to be cultivated and attended to daily. Here are some things to do every day to make sure you are cultivating career success:

Plan for your advancement by writing down your goals.

Maintain a positive attitude.

Do something every day to add value to your company. This can be as simple as doing the best job you can do each day.

Do more than required.

Look for solutions to problems.

Maintain a professional demeanor.

Be a results-oriented employee.

Make yourself valuable to your boss.

Hone your leadership skills.

Ask your boss to evaluate your work and provide feedback.

Ask if there is anything else you can do be valuable to your boss.

Steer clear of gossips and troublemakers.

Get along with everyone in the workplace.

By maintaining a "success" mindset, you can steer your career in the right direction. What steps have you taken to ensure your career success?

Be Enthusiastic About Your Career

2011-03-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

If you watched the recent Academy Awards, you got to see enthusiasm up close and personal in the form of acceptance speeches. The smiles, the tears, the laughter--all reflective of the heart and soul poured into a career. What would make you gush about your job in the same way? What would it take to get that feeling?

Think about ways in which you can muster the same kind of enthusiasm for your career as the actors, actresses, directors, and producers who won awards.

Look for ways to project enthusiasm through your attitude, smile, and personality.
Surround yourself with upbeat people.
Find ways to enjoy your work--no matter what it is.
Embrace your work and workplace with an open mind and flexibility.
Create passion in all you do and say.
Excite others about what you do and how you do it.
Rejuvenate yourself when your enthusiasm wanes. Take time to have fun, enjoy time with friends, and appreciate your past accomplishments.

Let your enthusiasm show with your excited voice, winning smile, and zest for life.

Spring is Here--Spruce Up Your Career

2011-03-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

Winter officially ends this weekend. I can honestly say I am happy to see spring coming. Many people get the urge at this time of year to do spring cleaning and clear out the old clutter and dirt from winter. Now might be a good time to do some spring cleaning at work, too, and get your career in shape for spring. Consider the following tips to spruce up your career:

Sit down with your supervisor and discuss ways you can become more of an asset to your company. Ask for feedback on your performance.
Think about ways you can positively set yourself apart from coworkers by performing your tasks better, updating your skills, offering solutions to problems, etc.
Look for ways you can add value to your company by saving money or time or by increasing profits or productivity.
Keep up with industry news and developments in your field.
Take a class or attend a seminar.
Find ways to get along with everyone in the office, including those hard-to-deal-with coworkers.

A little spring cleaning can go a long way to improving your career.

Turn Your Ideas Into Career Success

2011-03-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

If one of your goals is to have a successful career, take steps to assure your success by positively contributing to your company. Become an idea person.

Don't sit back and wait for other people to come up with ideas. Contribute some of your own. Make suggestions for saving the company time and money.
Become more proficient at your tasks. Increase your skills.
Whenever you encounter a problem, brainstorm to come up with solutions.
Listen to coworkers' ideas.
Share ideas and tips with your supervisor, coworkers, and clients.
Become a contributing member of the team.

Because there are a number of variables that affect the implementation of ideas, do not become discouraged if your ideas or suggestions are not accepted. Keep those ideas coming.

Add Learning Something New to Your Goals

2011-03-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

It is important to stimulate your mind by learning new things. You can learn in formal and informal situations. The idea is to continue to stretch and grow professionally and personally. Try these ideas:

In meetings concentrate on information related to your position and duties. Think of ways to apply the information to what you do. Ask questions and contribute ideas.
Be open-minded when others propose ideas, even if the ideas do not pertain to what you do. You never know when a variation of the idea can help you do your job better.
Listen to coworkers who have more experience that you do. Ask appropriate questions.
Attend professional conventions, meetings, and conferences.
Research your industry online to keep up to date with the latest developments.
Read newspapers and newsletters. Keep up with the news.
Learn as much as you can about your company and its products and services.

To optimize career success and grow and develop professionally, continuously learn as much as you can.

Make Yourself Indispensable to Your Employer

2011-02-26T09:24:00.000-08:00

Make yourself indispensable to your employer by going the extra mile. Take a tip from these tips:

Volunteer to do something extra
Be accountable for your actions
Be flexible
Show up for work everyday and be punctual
Look for ways to save the company time and money
Get along with coworkers, supervisors, and customers
Do your best work; be quality conscious
Avoid gossip and the rumor mill
Ask, "How can I help?"

A little extra effort can go a long way towards boosting your career to the next level.

Find a Job You Will Like

2011-02-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

You can do a few easy things to ensure you will like your job and the work you will be doing.

Decide the industry you would most like to work in and the type of work you would like to do
Assess your skills and training to determine if they fit the position; if not, acquire the training
Write a resume tailored to the company for which you would like to work and the type of position you want
Network
Polish your professional image
Practice interviewing skills

By matching yourself and your skills to a position, you are more likely to enjoy your job and find workplace success.

Top Ten Job Tips

2011-02-10T15:11:00.001-08:00

Here are my top ten job hunting tips.

Network--tell everyone you know that you are looking for a job.
Use a modern resume format that makes your achievements stand out.
Focus your resume on the job for which you are applying--customize.
Research companies before the interview--check their websites.
Be prepared--practice interviewing with a friend.
Focus on jobs that are appropriate for you rather than applying to everything.
Continue to learn and grow professionally.
Embrace technology--update your skills.
Work on keeping a healthy body and mind.
Dress for success.

Putting forth extra effort can pay off in big dividends with the right job for you.

Assess Those Career Goals

2011-01-22T09:25:00.000-08:00

How are the career goals coming along? Many people forget about their New Year's resolutions about now, so let's focus instead on goals. In keeping with the career theme, here are tips for setting career goals for 2011:

Assess where you are at the moment in your career--are you satisfied in your position or do you want to move up or move out?
Assess your skills and education as needed to advance in your position or to change careers.
Research applicable positions and companies.
Set specific goals that will lead you to your career desires.
Keep a positive attitude with regard to attaining your goals.
Take charge and do something to move yourself toward your goals--sign up for a class, send out resumes, research companies, network, schedule interviews, and so forth
Assess your progress and make adjustments when necessary.

With planning and action, you have a good chance to reach your goals.

Give Employers What They Want

2011-01-15T09:39:00.000-08:00

In keeping with the theme of getting a job, let's take a look at what employers want. Employers want to hire dependable, enthusiastic people who will give a full day's work. Here are some tips to convince an employer you are the right person for the job:

Maintain a record of dependability and good attendance at your current job.
Be able to convey your assets and accomplishments within a few minutes.
Match your skills to the employer's needs.
Research the company and be prepared to discuss your findings during the interview.
Demonstrate your willingness to try new things.
Practice time management and organizational skills.
Maintain a positive attitude and demonstrate your willingness to get along with others.
If you working in a multi-generational workplace, mention your ability to get along with people of all ages.
Take an active part in your self-development through training and updating skills.
Join a professional organization in your field.

Push yourself to the top of the competition by showing the employer you are the right person to hire.

Resume Tips

2011-01-11T07:31:00.000-08:00

Since January is the start of a new year, many people will be looking for a job or changing careers. In this turbulent economy, that may seem like a daunting task. Here are some tips to put together a winning resume for your job search.

Even if you are not currently searching for a job, you should always keep your resume updated.

Keep your resume to one or two pages; employers are time strapped.
Instead of a job objective, briefly profile your achievements in a sentence or two.
Use the keywords from the job description or from your particular industry.
Locate important information in a prominent place where employers will see it during a 30-second scan of the resume.
Quantify whenever possible--use numbers, dollar amounts, and percentages.
Do not overuse fancy fonts, underlines, bullets, bold, boxes, tabs, etc.
List a professional email address.
Never lie or exaggerate your experience, skills, achievements, or education.
Do not list references on the resume; prepare a separate reference page.
Customize the resume to fit the job description.
Always send a customized cover letter with the resume showing how your qualifications meet the employer's needs.
Print the resume on quality paper; and proofread carefully checking spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

A well-prepared resume just may get you that job interview.

Putting a New Year in Perspective

2010-12-31T12:08:00.000-08:00

I am ending the year with some tips for keeping your life in balance.

Take stock of your activities to be sure you are spending sufficient time in all important areas of your life--work, family, spiritual, and extracurricular activities
Renew relationships with relatives and friends you have not been in touch with for a while
Purge excess belongs and donate them to charity
Meditate
Exercise
Create a workable budget
Volunteer
Devote time to your hobby or favorite activity
Start a gratitude journal and write in it daily
Read a few good books
Listen to uplifting music
Be flexible
Let go of worries and stress
Keep a sense of humor
Share with others
Establish priorities and eliminate things that do not add value to your life
Strike negative words from your vocabulary
Forgive
Take it one day at a time

Happy New Year!

Career Resolutions

2010-12-27T17:25:00.000-08:00

Christmas with all its hustle and bustle is over. This weekend we will celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another. What a great time to make those resolutions! This blog will be devoted to career resolutions. If you are looking to start a new career, implement some of the following strategies in to your job search to increase your chances of success:

Develop a positive attitude
Assess your personal characteristics and your skills
Let your enthusiasm show during every interview
Make a good impression with your resume, cover letter, and interviewing skills
Learn about the company you are applying to and be ready to discuss that knowledge during the interview
Dress for success during the interview
Choose references carefully
Keep up with the latest technology
Utilize online employment sites by posting your resume
Joined LinkedIn and create a professional profile
Join online job boards and participate
Network with everyone you know and everyone you meet
Join a professional association and attend meetings regularly

Treat your job search like a job. Put the necessary time into your search.

Enjoy the Season

2010-12-21T17:10:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is upon us again. It seems to come around faster and faster each year. That should be a clue that perhaps our lives are too busy. Do yourself and your loved ones a favor by taking some time to take time.

Remember to take time to be with family and friends and enjoy their companionship.
Listen to carols and enjoy the decorations.
Instead of thinking of all you have to do for the holidays as a chore, enjoy the beauty of the season and the fun holiday activities are meant to bring.
Visit a shut-in or someone who is lonely.
Bake some cookies or make fudge.
Entertain dressed in your best attire.
Attend to your spiritual side.
Spread love and cheer wherever you go.

Balancing work, play, spirituality, and physical well-being is the best way to enjoy the holiday season and life in general.

Tis the season. Slow down and enjoy.

December--Take Care

2010-12-09T08:52:00.000-08:00

December descended cold and snowy in PA, which calls for extra caution when driving and working and playing outdoors. It can actually be a reminder to show a little extra caution in the workplace, too.

Take care to use safety in the workplace, especially with the evenings becoming darker earlier and with holiday decorations being displayed (all those extra cords and items in the way).

Take care to use extra patience since people are under more pressure and stress at this time of the year. Kind words often work wonders in volatile situations.

Take care to not take on too much, especially with all the extra time extended to holiday preparations.

Take care of old negative business--mend relationships, forgive grudges, forget about unattained goals, and forgive yourself for personal failings.

December is a great time to wrap up loose ends from the year and get ready to begin anew when January comes.

Be Grateful

2010-11-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

Being grateful ranks high on the list of what you can do to attract good things into your life, and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to be grateful. One of the many things I'm grateful for is that I turned in the last chapter of my new book on time. It feels good to have accomplished the feat! The book deadlines also kept me too busy to blog.

Don't forget to think about all areas of your life when giving thanks--physical, mental, spiritual, health and well-being, talents, peace of mind, and so forth. You get the picture. Take some time in the next few weeks to get centered and open yourself to all of God's blessings.

Push Yourself

2010-10-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

As president of Pennwriters, Inc., a 400+ member writing group, I write a column for our Penn Writer newsletter. Our October theme made me think of some positive words to pass along to everyone.

Define your goals clearly and write them down
Identify your supportive forces (friends, family, books, classes, etc.)
Reward yourself for victories
Develop an action plan and set deadlines
Take action
If you do not get the results you want, change your tactics
Reach out to your support system
Think and speak positively

When you take positive steps in the right direction, you are headed for success.

Happy Fall, All

2010-09-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

Autumn begins this week and with it Fall Fix-Up season, making it a good time to fix-up things in our lives such as these:

Personal relationships
Workplace relationships
Time management
Organization of home and office
Careers
Eating and exercise habits
Social habits
Online presence

You can find tips for time management, organization, workplace relationships, and career help in my former blog posts and on my website.

Where Does the Time Go?

2010-09-18T08:11:00.000-07:00

Since returning from my Disney World vacation, I have been totally focused on writing my new book, Seeking a Job After 50. I turned in the first two chapters yesterday and am diligently working on Chapter 3.

All this work brings to mind time management and organizational skills. My website, www.carolsilvis.com, has a list of time management and organization tips if you need a little help in these areas.

With fall coming, it's a good time to take stock of where our time goes and how we can make the most of it. Soon we will be facing another holiday season and all the time crunches that come with it.

Do yourself a favor and take time to enjoy life.

Vacation from the Career

2010-08-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a much needed vacation and will be leaving for Disney World tomorrow morning. My blog will resume in a couple of weeks. In the meantime, find a way to squeeze in some time for relaxing and de-stressing. We all need that if we are to keep productivity high at work.

Enjoy the last days of summer!

Succeed in Your Career Despite the Economy

2010-08-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

Another round of dismal employment news was released yesterday. To succeed in your career in this economy, you must constantly improve yourself and remain in good standing with your company.

Establish your goals for advancement
Learn what you need to do to reach those goals
Develop and implement a plan of action
Persist with an optimistic purpose and clear sense of direction
Commit the time and effort necessary to reach your goals

Get a clear picture in your mind of what success means to you and then work toward it.

Hold Onto Your Job

2010-07-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

Today's news on the economy is once again bleak. It is more important than ever to keep the job you have. One of the best ways to do that is to provide excellent customer service. Another is to do everything you can to make your boss's job easier.

Here are some other ways to help yourself and others through tough economic times:

Always speak kindly to everyone every day.
If there is something special you can do for your customers, do it.
Spread words of encouragement and appreciation.
Treat people fairly and never take advantage of them.
If you must offer criticism, find something positive to say first.

The way you walk your career path is especially important in this economic climate.

Marketable Skills Equal Career Success

2010-07-24T06:48:00.001-07:00

One way of increasing your chances of keeping your job and advancing in this tough economy is to remain marketable by keeping skills fresh. Skill maintenance is an ongoing process, especially with changing and evolving technology, new research and development, and modernized equipment. Ever-changing job descriptions, assignments, procedures, and the like affect what and how much you need to know and how well you perform.

Some competencies that are always in demand include:

Computer Equipment and Software
Marketing
Sales
Customer Service
Oral and Written Communications

To determine the best way for you to update:

Review your job description and verify core competencies and skills you need
Assess your competency in these areas
Ask your supervisor if he/she feels there are competencies you need to acquire
Ask the HR director or company trainer if there are skills/competencies you should acquire

After you have determined the skills/competencies you need, decide how you will obtain the training and the date by which you will begin training.

Summer Fun and Career Success

2010-07-20T08:39:00.000-07:00

During the summer it's easy to get in the fun-in-the sun mode and or take a vacation at work. Guard against slacking at work if you hope to achieve career success.

While on the job, do your work and give it your all.
Complete assigned tasks with efficiency, accuracy, and expediency.
Keep interruptions you can control to a minimum.
Avoid complaining and complainers.
Periodically assess yourself and how well you complete your tasks. Determine if you need to increase productivity.
Track where your time is spent and use time management techniques.
Observe others who do similar jobs, and compare your productivity to theirs.

There will be days you may feel tired, irritable, or bored. Professionals move past these feelings to continue performing at top-notch levels.

Be Dependable for a Career You can Depend On

2010-07-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

As summer continues, so does our work life. Be dependable and show up for work every day. Repeatedly missing work and letting the boss down may result in the loss of your job. In today's job market, that can be devastating.

Show your dependability by not leaving a string of unfinished tasks, broken promises, and unacceptable work. Build a reputation as someone who can be counted on to keep his word.

If you say you will do something, do it.
If you have a deadline, meet it.
If you make a promise, keep it.
Make sure you know what is expected of you so you know if you can do it.
Be someone supervisors can approach with an important, demanding task.
Put your best into each and every job you do.
Whenever you finish a job, follow-up

Enjoy the summer, but meet your responsibilities.

Happy Fourth--Happy Freedom

2010-07-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July. Remember all the freedoms this country has to offer.

Speaking of freedoms, this might be a good time to think about the freedom to:

Choose an attitude that will best serve you
Consider the type of job where you will most enjoy working
Set the goals you would like to pursue
Aspire to loftier career heights.

God Bless America!

Get Your Career Going--Show Enthusiasm

2010-06-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

What happens to the new hire who shows up to work the first day bubbling with enthusiasm? Where does that eagerness go after a few months or years? How does he/she get it back? Let the boss declare an impromptu vacation day for everyone and you will see enthusiasm skyrocket.

Enthusiasm is something over which we have some control. People in similar positions in similar companies approach their jobs with different degrees of enthusiasm. We can make up our minds to be enthusiastic. Consider people you know or have read about who are passionate about what they do--Olympians, athletes, mothers raising their children. What is it about these people that sets them apart? What makes it apparent they love what they do? How can you project that enthusiasm?

Be more pleasant, enthusiastic, and motivated.
Show a zest for life and a love for your job through your actions and personality.
Be a coworker others will want to work with.
Be an employee the boss will want to promote.
Get others excited about what you do and how you do it.

Truly enthusiastic people radiate passion in all they do. They do not let that passion fade. They rejuvenate themselves by seeking ways to keep their lives interesting.

Balance Your Career and Personal Life

2010-06-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

Living a balanced professional and personal life is crucial to your successful well-being. Too much emphasis and time on your professional life to the exclusion of your personal life will cause you to miss out on important "self" time. Too much attention to your personal life and not enough on your professional life will lead to career stagnation and sabotage.

Develop a routine that will personally fit your life plans
Take steps to maintain a healthy physical and mental balance for yourself before things get out of hand
Take corrective action when you feel your life is out of balance
Consider all areas of your life including work, health, family and friends, finances, personal growth, professional growth, spiritual, hobbies, and the like

When your perspective in any area of your life is out of balance, make necessary adjustments to create balance.

Keep Your Career and Job Fresh - Never Stop Learning

2010-06-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

As schools wind down and students begin summer vacation, keep in mind that we are in a period of lifelong learning. We must strive to grow each day on the job. Learning does not stop with formal education. Get as much education and training as possible that will help you perform better in your job and also enhance your career possibilities.

Become an expert in an area that is lucrative
Challenge yourself to reach higher positions
Update skills to increase your value to the company
Learn new sought-after skills
Learn something new each week to keep your mind fresh and open to creativity

There are lots of ways to stimulate learning--both informally and formally. Look for opportunities and take advantage of them.

Get Organized

2010-05-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

I gave a talk on getting organized to a writers' group today and thought I'd share some tips. Anyone can use them to get organized.

Locate things you use most often in a convenient place
Use bins, baskets, folders, etc., to get organized
Put things back every time you use them
Consider your work habits and make your environment work for you
Have a specific place for incoming and outgoing mail. File all correspondence and your manuscript in one folder (or storage box)
Only file useful papers
Use temporary storage like portable file boxes for work in progress

Getting organized will save you time and cut down on stress.

Persistence in Career Development

2010-05-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

I attended the Pennwriters Conference last weekend and listened to some wonderful speakers. One of the recurring themes these speakers touched upon was persistence. Although they spoke about writing and publishing, their message of persistence applies in everything we do. By being persistent, we can:

Advance to positions we aspire to hold within the company.
Reach our personal and career goals.
See our dreams come true.
Learn and grow in any situation.
Accomplish nearly impossible feats.

Persist in all your endeavors. Keep going when things get tough. By not giving up, you might be surprised at what you can accomplish.

Pennwriters Conference

2010-05-12T09:31:00.001-07:00

I'll be heading to the Pennwriters Conference in Lancaster tomorrow so figured I'd pass along some thoughts about networking, since I'll be doing lots of it this weekend. Networking is a great way to maintain friendships and work associations.

Have a clear idea of what you hope to gain from networking.
Get out there and mingle--introduce yourself.
Find common ground--it's not all about you, rather it's about both of you.
Become an active member of your professional organization by volunteering.
Be prepared to discuss industry news.
Carry and use business cards.

Networking is a great way to maintain friendships and work associations. It is a way to increase your odds of getting a job, creating new friendships, gathering information, and learning new things about your career field.

Plan for Career Advancement

2010-05-07T11:16:00.000-07:00

When considering career options, determine if a company has an advancement plan to meet your goals. Ask yourself these questions:

Is there a suitable position to which I can advance within the company?
Do I have the education and skills to advance to this position?
Am I prepared for a promotion?
Do I go above and beyond in my current position?
Have my performance reviews been above average/superior?
Do I meet my commitments on a consistent basis and in a timely manner?
Do I keep up with industry trends?

It is sometimes difficult to be objective when it comes to determining our worth to our employer. Solicit feedback from your employer for an objective opinion.

Career Appreciation

2010-05-04T15:06:00.000-07:00

Today is Teacher Appreciation Day, and I have a beautiful basket of flowers on my desk from my appreciative boss. This is a time when all of us can show our appreciation to all the former teachers and mentors who have enriched our education and careers. It is also a good time to take personal note of how we can help others by becoming their mentors and sharing our knowledge and expertise with them. Showing a solid appreciation for others is one way we can improve workplace relationships. Other ways include:

Helping people build on their strengths
Supporting others
Speaking kindly and respectfully
Keeping the lines of communication open

A big thank you to all of my former teachers and mentors.

Career Development and Success--Keep Learning

2010-04-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

I attended the St. David's Writers One-Day Conference on Saturday, which made me think about how we all need to keep learning and honing our skills. Employees today cannot merely be as good as their coworkers. They need to be better.

Take time to evaluate your skills and update as needed.
Never stop learning new things.
Read all you can about the latest developments in your field.
Attend workshops and conferences related to your field.

Staying on top in your field requires effort on your part. Take advantage of any learning situations that you can.

Provide Great Customer Service - Keep Your Job

2010-04-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

I spoke at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon yesterday on indispensable customer service. Here are a few tips that just might help you keep enough customers to be able to keep your job. After all, if it were not for customers, there would be no jobs and no paycheck.

Make the customer feel good. No one complains about being treated too well.
Learn as much as you can about your customers. Identify their needs and wants and then try to come up with ideas to help them.
Provide the best possible products and services.
Obtain customer feedback - listen.
Act on problems and deal with complaints immediately.
Do something to make your customers feel extra special.
Keep your promises - always.

Keep those customers coming back by being indispensable to them and to your company.

Learn From Mistakes to Keep Your Career on Track

2010-04-17T07:12:00.000-07:00

If you think you are beyond making mistakes, think again. We all make mistakes, no matter how skilled or experienced we are. It's human nature. Assume responsibility for mistakes and look for ways to correct them.

Find out exactly what you did wrong.
Admit your part in the mistake.
Brainstorm ways to correct the mistake.
Learn from the mistake. Determine what caused it and what you need to do differently in the future.
Put measures in place to prevent a similar mistake in the future.

Admitting and correcting mistakes builds your credibility and develops your judgment for making better decisions in the future.

Career Advancement

2010-04-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

To advance in your career, demonstrate your value to your employer and those around you. Be highly visible and take charge of situations when warranted. Continuously challenge yourself and members of your team. Act like management material by following these guidelines:

Take advantage of every available opportunity to learn and grow.
Establish behaviors that stand out positively in the minds of supervisors.
Develop excellent critical thinking skills.
Be a self-directed worker who performs duties with proficiency.
Act professional at all times and display integrity and ethical behavior.
Take on extra responsibilities and help others.
Become an expert in your field.
Participate in lifelong learning to keep your expertise up to date.

Take a long, hard look at your personal qualities and adjust your strategies to align yourself closer to the way management level people behave. With an inner drive and a determination to achieve, you can position yourself to rise to a higher level.

Take Time to Enjoy Easter

2010-04-02T11:22:00.001-07:00

Take time this Easter to enjoy family and friends and to renew yourself spiritually. Living a balanced personal and professional life is crucial to your successful well-being. Too much attention to your professional life to the exclusion of your personal life will cause you to miss out on important "self" time. Too much attention to your personal life and not enough on your professional life will cause career stagnation. Develop a routine that personally fits your life plans and make corrections when it is out of balance.

Take steps to maintain a healthy physical and mental balance.
Practice good time and stress management.
Get and stay organized.
Maintain a positive attitude.

When you think of balance, consider all areas of your life, including work, family, friends, health, finance, spiritual, hobbies, and everything else that fits into your life. Balance in all areas of life is a key to contentment.

Career Advice - Build Better Work Habits

2010-03-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

Build positive work habits by continually searching for ways to improve yourself and the way you do your job.

Correctly interpret and follow directions.
Pay attention to every detail and step.
Learn the why behind the tasks you perform.
Look for ways to increase your productivity.
Meet daily goals, quotas, and deadlines.
Assess how you perform tasks and determine if there is a better, cheaper, faster way to do them.

Prove you are a competent, resourceful employee by performing your job efficiently and accurately.

Provide Excellent Customer Service to Add Value

2010-03-24T11:01:00.001-07:00

Whatever happened to customer service with a smile? It seems to me it is difficult to find it some days. Adding value to your boss and company might be as simple as providing the best customer service. Customers mean business. Repeat customers mean business is going well. Put forth your best customer service efforts if you want to succeed in the business world.

Focus on the customers' needs and concerns.
Watch for nonverbal clues customers provide.
Develop a personal connection with customers.
Be knowledgeable about your products and services so you can provide accurate information.
Anticipate problems and concerns.

By treating customers with care and personal attention, you will go a long way toward making yourself valuable to your employer.

Add Learning Something New to Your Goal List

2010-03-18T16:25:00.001-07:00

It is important to keep your mind stimulated by learning something new. Learning can take place in formal and informal situations. The main idea is to grow professionally.

In meetings concentrate on any information related to your position and duties. Think of ways to apply the information to your tasks.
Be open-minded when others propose ideas even if those ideas do not pertain to you. Perhaps a variation of the ideas can be applied to your tasks.
Listen to and ask questions of coworkers who are more experienced than you.
Attend professional organization meetings and seminars.
Research online.
Listen to news programs and read newspapers and company newsletters.
Learn as much as you can about your company and its products and services.

To attain career success, it is important to grow and develop by continuously learning new things.

Be Enthusiastic About Your Job and Your Career

2010-03-16T10:23:00.000-07:00

Did you see the recent Academy Awards acceptance speeches? Now those actors and actresses displayed enthusiasm for their jobs. The smiles, the tears, the thanks--all reflective of the heart and soul poured into a job and the culmination of it over a career. Too bad we can't be as enthusiastic about our jobs. Or can we? What would make you gush about your job? Can you do something to get that feeling if you don't have it? If you have lost it, can you get it back? Yes. Enthusiasm is something we control by making up our minds and doing it.

Look for ways to project enthusiasm--smile, speak positively, surround yourself with upbeat people, etc.
Find ways to enjoy your work.
Create passion in all you do and say.
Embrace work and life with an open mind.
Excite others about what you do and how you do it.
When you feel your enthusiasm fading, rejuvenate yourself by taking time for yourself, having fun, spending time with friends, relaxing, and appreciating yourself and all you have accomplished.

Create your own passion; and show it with a winning smile, enthusiastic voice, and positive words.

Continued Career Success

2010-03-13T09:21:00.001-08:00

Here are additional ideas for making yourself indispensable to your employer and increasing your career success.

Do more than is required of you. Be willing to take on additional responsibilities. Offer to assist coworkers and your supervisor.
Update your skills. Keep up with the latest technological developments that affect your skills and the way you do your job.
Think quality in all you do--your work, your dealings with others, your attitude, your dress and mannerisms, etc.

Little things often make the difference when it comes to building a great career.

Career Success is in the Ideas

2010-03-10T16:18:00.000-08:00

If having a successful career is on your goal list, take steps to assure your success by making a positive contribution to your company.

Don't wait for someone else to come up with good ideas. Become an idea person who offers suggestions for saving the company time and money.
Search for ways to become more proficient at what you do. Can you perform your tasks better?
When you have a problem, look for a solution by brainstorming ideas.
Share ideas with your boss and coworkers; listen to the ideas other people contribute. Work as a team to put the ideas into practice.

Sometimes your ideas and suggestions will not be accepted. Because there are a number of variables that affect the implementation of ideas, do not be discouraged. Keep contributing.

Evaluate

2010-03-04T16:26:00.000-08:00

As February gives way to March, take time to evaluate how you are progressing toward your goals.

Re-do deadlines and action steps if necessary.
Commit time to reaching a goal.
Address problem areas and look for solutions.
Become passionate about reaching your goals.
Challenge yourself daily.

By making sufficient changes, you can reach goals faster and easier.

Get Control

2010-02-25T16:43:00.000-08:00

Although there is much you cannot control about how to reach your goals, there is a lot you can control; and that is where you should start. Things you can control include these:

the amount of time you set aside to attain your goals
your attitude toward attaining your goals; including being positive and persevering
your actions--what you do to move yourself closer toward your goals
making honest assessments about the steps you are taking to see what is working and what needs to be changed
your choices

By taking control, you can fulfill your goals.

Go After Your Goals

2010-02-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

Get to work on reaching goals by taking immediate action. Stop procrastinating and finding excuses (not enough time, too difficult, don't know what to do, etc.). If you want to reach your goals, YOU have to make it happen. Commit the necessary time, work, and dedication to the attainment of your goals.

Make time
Find out WHAT you need to do in order to achieve your goal(s)
Find out HOW to do what you need to do
Enlist help from others who have what you want or who know how to get what you want
Tell yourself you can do it
Break down big goals into manageable steps
Do something today--no matter how minor

Visualize reaching your goal(s). What have you accomplished? How did you do it? How does it feel to have succeeded? How can you use this feeling of success to reach another of your goals?

Take Action By Making Changes As Needed

2010-02-13T08:04:00.001-08:00

Snow, snow, and more snow. This week we have been pummeled by record-breaking snowfalls. It threw everything off schedule and shut down schools and businesses. It has also reminded me how easy it is to get off track with respect to our goals. Sometimes we need to be flexible enough to change course or adjust in some way when striving to reach our goals.

Be Flexible. If you have not taken appropriate steps toward reaching your goal, don’t waste time worrying about it. Get back on track by taking a small step immediately. Do something—anything—that will move you closer. Re-examine your action plan to see if it still fits your present needs and abilities. For example, you may need to skip a step or two for the time being or else backtrack and redo a step you have completed.
Change Course. When life throws you the kind of curve that thwarts your plans to pursue your goals, look for an alternative path. For instance, if you are looking for a job and the perfect interview did not produce results, evaluate what went wrong. Is there something more you could have done? Can you change something about your resume or your interview presentation? If so, change what needs to be changed, and begin again with your job search. Always be on the lookout for a better way of doing things.

Take Action and Reach Your Goals

2010-02-04T17:09:00.000-08:00

Here are two more ideas to get you to take action on your goals:

Utilize Your To-do List. Copy one of the steps from your action plan to your daily to-do list. For example, is there one thing you can do today to bring yourself closer to your goal(s)? Write it down on your to-do list. Then, make it a priority for the day. Take the step—move closer to your goal. Each day, add a new step to your to-do list that will move you toward your goal. Without taking some kind of consistent action, reaching your goal will be difficult. Many people write down their goals and create an action plan, but they fail to take action on them.
Use Affirmations. Another way to increase the likelihood that you will take action is to repeat positive affirmations to yourself regarding your goal. For instance, if your goal is to garner a promotion, you might use these affirmations: I am learning and growing in my career. I am becoming more skilled in my area of expertise. I am making strides toward a management-level job. I am finding an appropriate mentor to help me reach my management goals. I am emulating people in management that I hope to join in a position someday.

Put goal steps on your to-do list and find personal affirmations that will work for you.

Take Action on Your Goals - Find a Mentor to Ensure Career Success

2010-02-01T16:53:00.000-08:00

The next couple of blogs will address ways to take action on your goals. If possible, find a mentor who is willing to teach you what you need to know to attain your goal(s). This mentor should be someone who has the character traits you admire and who is in a position you aspire to hold or is doing what you hope to do. He or she should give you straightforward information and honest, positive critiques. You don’t want someone who says, “Yes, you are wonderful,” without providing proper guidance and criticism that will mold you into the person you hope to be.

How do you find a mentor?

Network, network, network. You have to put yourself out there and ask for help. Most people are willing to help others.
Join groups and seek successful members.
Observe others in the workplace. Who would be the best person from which to learn?
Take a class, get a tutor, or hire a coach.

Your mentor should be an expert in the area in which you want to learn. In addition, he/she should be able to teach; that is, get information across in an easy-to-understand way. Some people are experts in their fields, but they cannot convey information to others clearly.

Modeling successful people who have achieved what you want provides a readymade road map to reach your goals.

Develop an Action Plan to Achieve Career Goals

2010-01-20T15:47:00.000-08:00

Develop an action plan to reach your goals by listing several steps you can take to move yourself closer to those goals. Make your plan easy to implement, and use a viable timeline. Periodically, check your plan to determine if it needs to be adjusted or if it is working for you.

Using the example goal of joining Toastmasters in order to improve communication skills, here is an example action plan:

Within the next two days, check local listings or search online to find the nearest Toastmasters' group.
Contact the group by the end of the week and express an interest in joining.
Attend the next available Toastmasters’ meeting.
Network with at least two group members at the first meeting.
Learn speaking tips and techniques from members.
Become an active participant in the group and continue networking with members.
Implement changes in presentations according to information obtained at meetings and from constructive criticism following personal speeches.

Develop a similar action plan for each goal you want to achieve and follow through by completing the action plan steps.

Setting Goals for 2010

2010-01-15T13:12:00.000-08:00

Once you have decided on your goals for 2010, write and post them where you will see them daily. Goals that are out of sight are also out of mind and inactive. Keeping track of your progress toward goals will help you attain them.

Make sure to personalize your goals—you are the only one who can achieve them. Do not reply on others to fulfill your goals. For example, your goal can be to write a novel and submit it to a traditional publisher, but it cannot include having the traditional publisher publish the novel. That would be relying on someone else to fulfill your goal, and you cannot be sure anyone else will complete your goal. Also, don’t strive for goals that someone else wants for you.

Rank your goals in order of importance to you. Focus your energy on attaining your goals and commit to reaching them.
Develop a step-by-step plan for reaching your goals. If you are not sure what steps to take, seek help from others and/or emulate people who have attained such a goal.
Visualize reaching your goals. Many athletes and successful people “see” themselves becoming winners.
Reward yourself when you reach a goal.

More on creating an action plan in the next blog.

Setting Career Goals

2010-01-06T16:16:00.000-08:00

If you have assessed your career by answering the questions in the last blog post, you have a pretty good idea of how you spent your time on the job in 2009. Now, it’s a matter of deciding how you would like to spend your time in 2010.

Decide where you need to make changes in order to become indispensable to your employer. For example, do you need additional training to advance in your position? Let’s say you decide that you need to be able to make better presentations. Set a goal to make the change. For example, I will join Toastmasters to improve my communication skills.
Spend some time considering three or four goals you would like to achieve during the next year. Make sure your goals are attainable and measurable. Incorporate a timeframe for achieving the goals.

In the next blog, I will discuss creating an action plan for attaining goals.

2009 Career Assessment and Setting 2010 Career Goals

2010-01-04T10:01:00.000-08:00

Where did 2009 go? I mean literally. How did you spend your time in 2009 while on the job? Did you

Contribute to the best of your ability?
Work smarter?
Embrace learning and new technology?
Perform each task with efficiency and in a timely manner?
Stand out in a positive way?
Get along with the boss, coworkers, and customers?
Accomplish what you had hoped for in your career?
Meet your career goals?
Advance appropriately on the job or make career strides?

Answer the above questions to prepare for a stellar 2010 career. As we head into the new year, I will be blogging about making yourself indispensable at work—giving yourself that edge over the competition and earning a rewarding career.

THINK ABOUT POSITIVE CAREER GOALS FOR 2010

2009-12-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

As the year comes to a close, it is a good time to start thinking about goals for the New Year. Goals target areas you want to improve and are especially helpful for career success and career advancement.

What do you hope for next year?

Do you need to find a job following a layoff or downsizing?
Do you want to find a new, more rewarding career?
Do you need to improve your skills to keep your current job or advance in it?
Do you have your sights set on a higher-level position than you currently hold?
Are you looking for more satisfaction in your current position and your career?

These are all considerations you will want to keep in mind as you begin to formulate goals for 2010. In addition, you will want to review your 2009 goals and see where you need to adjust them.

Positive Attittude - Positive Career

2009-12-19T07:47:00.000-08:00

Keeping a positive attitude in today’s economic climate takes some effort but is rewarding. When employees have positive attitudes, productivity seems to improve, as does general office morale. Working in a pleasant environment with agreeable people is preferable to being faced with daily negativity.

Do your part to maintain a positive attitude and pleasant work environment.

Eliminate negative words from your vocabulary.
When problems occur, look for solutions rather than complain.
Think pleasant thoughts if you feel your mood slipping.
Be grateful—after all, you still have a job.
Be flexible.

Follow the Rules to Career Success

2009-12-11T10:29:00.000-08:00

Company rules are put into place to maintain discipline and order. Employers lament the lax attitudes of many employees when it comes to following rules. When employees routinely break the rules, a chaotic environment will likely result. Follow the rules to increase your value to the company.

Start work on time and get back from breaks on time.
Do your work during the required hours.
Avoid doing personal work on company time.
Follow the dress code.
Do not socialize during business hours.

Breaking rules sends the wrong message to management, coworkers, and customers.

Hold Yourself Accountable for Your Career Success

2009-12-04T06:40:00.001-08:00

Your boss and your company will hold you accountable for your workplace behavior and accomplishments. Go one better and hold yourself accountable.

Perform your tasks to the best of your ability, completing them in a timely manner.
Maintain a positive attitude daily.
Adhere to a strict code of personal behavior.
Keep skills up to date and learn new ones as required.
Become an expert in your field.
Use good judgment.
Speak kindly and tactfully.

Taking responsibility for your actions and words will preserve your value to the boss and company.

Book Article

2009-11-30T16:09:00.001-08:00

Here is an interesting link on local Western PA writers thahttp://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/ae/books/s_655113.htmlt included my latest book.

Stand Out for Career Success

2009-11-27T09:34:00.000-08:00

In today economy it is not enough to be as good as your coworkers. Strive to be better. Show the company your value through high personal standards and your ability to do the job well—consistently.

Meet commitments in a timely manner and then find ways to go above and beyond your current job requirements. Demonstrate your willingness to get the job done. Do you need to brush-up on your skills? Is there a new skill you can learn?

There are lots of ways you can show you are willing to take on extra responsibility.

Is there a special project for which you can volunteer?
Can you pick up a few duties from someone who was let go?
Can you start a company newsletter or other relevant undertaking?

Figure out what needs to be done and, if it is within your scope of responsibility, do it.

This Is No Time to Waste Time

2009-11-24T08:43:00.000-08:00

Employers are cutting employees in record numbers and making do with less people on their payrolls. To that end, this is no time to waste time at work. Each person must do his or her share to keep productivity and profits up. When you are at work—work. Avoid the following timewasters.

Using office phones and copiers for personal business.
Wasting time on personal business.
Misusing the Internet.
Chatting idly with coworkers.
Showing up for work late.
Leaving work early before quitting time.
Coming back from breaks and lunches late.

Go With the Flow—Get Along With Others

2009-11-16T06:35:00.000-08:00

Most people get fired from a job because they cannot get along with others. In an economy with double-digit unemployment, don’t let this happen to you. Find a way to get along with your coworkers, clients/customers, and supervisors. Look for common ground on which you can build a professional relationship.

Be aware of miscommunication and the damage it can do to relationships.
Avoid gossip and slander.
Don’t pass the blame or make accusations.
Observe how coworkers act and react so you have a better idea of how to deal with them.
Respect others’ views and differences.
Show an interest in others.
Be pleasant and positive.

Giving Thanks

2009-11-12T16:48:00.000-08:00

As we draw closer to Thanksgiving, we should be more aware of all those things for which we should offer thanks, and we should be writing them in our gratitude journal. If you do not have a journal, a mental thank you would be appropriate.

Don’t forget to think about all areas of life when giving thanks—spiritual, physical, mental, social. Include family, friends, pets, health and well-being, talents, peace of mind, etc. You get the picture. Take some time within the next couple of weeks, get centered, and open yourself to all of God’s blessings.

Increase Your Efficiency on the Job

2009-11-10T06:22:00.000-08:00

Always be on the lookout for better ways to complete your tasks. Is there is a more efficient, less costly, faster way to do your job. Ask yourself these questions:

Will better organization help me do this task more efficiently?
Do I have the skills and ability to complete this task?
Is it possible to complete this task by the required deadline?
Can I make better use of company time?
Is the usual way of performing this task the best way to complete it?
Is there a better way of doing this task?
How can I work smarter?

Combating 10.2 Percent Unemployment

2009-11-07T07:21:00.000-08:00

Unemployment has finally topped 10 percent—not a good statistic. With so many people losing jobs, employees need to concentrate their efforts on providing value to their employers. Here are some ideas to add value to your company:

Raise your productivity level by completing tasks proficiently, correctly, and quickly. Compare your productivity to that of your coworkers. Do you measure up to their standards or surpass them?
Look for additional responsibilities to take on that are within your capabilities. Volunteer to take on tasks no one else wants.
If coworkers are laid off, assume additional work without complaint.
Be grateful if you have a job. Be positive if you are searching for a job.

Halloween

2009-10-30T07:04:00.000-07:00

Halloween is coming, but don’t get spooked by the fledging economy or the rising employment. Recession-proof your job by making yourself valuable to your employer. How? There are a number of ways, including doing more than you are asked.

Some people look at additional tasks as “more work piled on” instead of thinking of the new responsibilities as challenges. Learning new tasks is a great way to add value to your skills and to the company. In fact, ask for additional work responsibilities. Volunteer to do the jobs no one else wants to do. Prove that you are willing to earn the paycheck you receive.

Follow Your Passion to a Rewarding Career

2009-10-23T07:18:00.000-07:00

What are you passionate about that you could make money doing? Is there a market for what you love to do? If so, that is the career path you should follow. Doing what you love turns work into pleasure, boredom into excitement. Focus on your passion—devote time to it—make it work for you.

Following your passion will not automatically guarantee you a carefree life and workplace, but it will make you care about your life and work.

Take Action

2009-10-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

Take action. Take action today on something that will enhance your life and the lives of those you love. It doesn’t have to be a time-consuming action, but it can be. It can be a quick action, such as a hug or a prolonged action such as preparing a full-course meal. The action can be writing a one-page resume or doing an all-out job search. It can be simply dusting the family room or putting up new drywall.

The action you take only needs to be something that will enhance your life—a little or a lot.

Nurture Yourself

2009-10-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in my last post, fall is a great time to “fall” back on old routines. School is well under way, pools and amusement parks are closed, and nature takes on a new look with the changing leaves. It’s a time for nourishing both our bodies and our souls. Take advantage of cooler weather by hiking, doing yard work, reading, preparing favorite oven meals, and roasting hotdogs and marshmallows over outdoor bonfires.

Place your attention on the important blessings in life.
Find enough “me time” to mediate and relax.
Nurture yourself and your loved ones.
Let go of the frivolous, unimportant things that devour your time.
Start a gratitude journal if you do not already have one. If you do have a gratitude journal, write at least three things in it everyday. Being grateful has a way of nourishing one’s soul.

Enjoy the fall colors, sights, and smells.

Routines

2009-09-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

By now the schools are settled into a routine, and we have the opportunity to slow down after whirlwind summer festivities. Routines give us a familiarity needed to keep ourselves on an even keel. Routines also have the tendency to bore us. The trick is to get into a routine that works to keep us functioning efficiently while providing enough variation that life does not get boring. So what can we do? Make simple changes in your routine from time to time.

Eat a different cereal for breakfast or have breakfast at diner time.
Take a different route to or from work.
Change your pattern for getting ready for school or work.
Change evening activities. Instead of watching TV, turn you loose photos into beautiful scrapbooks.
Learn a new skill, language, or hobby.
Spend long evenings with family and friends.
Catch up on letter writing and phone calls.
Get organized.

Whatever you do to stir your routine, enjoy yourself.

Fall is Here

2009-08-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

Summer is winding down. Days are getting shorter. School children are heading back to school. All the signs are here that fall is upon us. As we wind up the fun-filled, hectic summer, we settle into a more structured routine.

Find time to fit in the things that are important to you as well as those that are necessary.
Nurture yourself by reading, writing, meditating, visiting friends or relatives, and so forth.
Take time to smell the last fragrant flowers of the summer.
Plant fall flowers to enjoy before winter.
Create one last summer adventure.

Only when we have balance in our lives can we achieve our best. Balance is best attained by attending to our physical, mental, and spiritual selves.

Fleeting Summer Days

2009-08-08T06:12:00.000-07:00

How is the summer to-do list coming?

Are you accomplishing what you had hoped for the summer?
Have you completed the summer maintenance projects?
Is the yard in tip-top shape?
Did you take time to enjoy family and friends, take some fun day trips--the zoo, an amusement park, hiking trails, swimming pools?
Did you collect enough warm-weather memories to last through winter and another year?

If you have not reached your summer goals yet, there is still time, but the days (and nights) are growing shorter. Don’t let the great weather slip by without taking advantage of the splendor it has to offer.

Goals

2009-07-29T07:24:00.000-07:00

Make goals your priority and focus on attaining them. You may be surprised at what you can accomplish. Take action today by asking yourself these questions:

What am I willing to do to attain my goal?
What am I willing to give up in order to attain my goal? (i.e., time? money?)
Do I have the ability and means to attain this goal?
If I do not have the ability or means to attain this goal, can I obtain the ability or means? (i.e. go back for retraining or college credits)
Is this goal a high priority for me?
Are there steps today I can take toward accomplishing my goal?
Do I take steps every day to reach my goal?
Is what I am doing now bringing me closer to my goal?
What steps can I take to reach my goal?
How will I organize the steps I need to take to reach my goal?
When will I begin working on this goal?

Develop a solid plan of action to attain your goals, and start today to bring them to fruition.