Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams by JH Morris Productions

DO IT YOUR WAY Finding the Career of Your Dreams By James H. Morris

James H. Morris

The Ever-Changing World of the Job Search This suggests that dealing with the career dynamics of the future will be easier for both employees and employers. In short, we are breaking the traditional career model in the workplace by making it easier for people to take on skills they already have and use them in new roles in the organization. I was told, jokingly, that employees getting a better job was as simple as "quit and look for another one." However, this story rings true today since many large organizations follow this script. It is vital to redesign our learning organizations, rethink our working models, create more hybrid roles and abolish our traditional approach of “brainstorming” success. Here are some of the key ideas that emerged from many discussions, including one that was the linchpin of the discussion at the 2016 World Economic Forum: Changing the educational and learning environment is necessary to help people remain employable and on the labor market in the future. •

Analytical roles have become increasingly popular among organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of data scientists and analysts will reach 2.7 million annual job postings by 2020. All nations in developed countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, are experiencing growth in jobs that relate to these sectors.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams •

In order to gain employment in these fields, you will need more than just a degree: mathematics, statistics, critical thinking, and knowledge of the industry are required, not just the ability to manage data. There is a notable difference in the earnings of data scientists with industry experience and knowledge, for example, nearly 50 percent greater than those with technical skills alone.

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Burning Glass calls these new jobs a “new genome” of skills, which pull together existing roles to function in new ways. As a result, they combine technical skills with domain expertise and systems knowledge for a particular area, whether they go by the names of “data analysts,” “digital marketing managers,” or “HR and people analytics leaders.”.

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There is a growing need for soft skills in these roles. Employers are looking for data analysts who are skilled at researching, writing, problem-solving, working in teams, and thinking creatively. Math and statistics are less likely to develop these skills than other subjects. They are more likely to develop when scholars have a background in English, history, the arts, or business. STEAM has thus replaced STEM.

This process requires professionals to expect continuous career breaks and take calculated steps to gain elastic skills applicable to all talents, such as project management, critical design thinking, and communication skills adapted to any role or industry. It will not be possible to train workers in future skills for many reasons, 3

James H. Morris including because they will not be in the job long enough to teach them to change careers. However, alternative certification mechanisms could emerge from assessing and guaranteeing people's skills on the move. To thrive in today’s ever-changing world requires a wide variety of skills, grounded in academic skills such as literacy, numeracy, and science, but also encompassing things like teamwork, critical thinking, communication, perseverance, and creativity. Uta Russmann, professor of communications, marketing and sales at the Vienna University of Applied Sciences, says that more and more jobs require sophisticated skills that cannot be trained through mass or online programs. The most essential life skills are those gained through interpersonal experience and the liberal arts. For example, young people need to be able to control their emotions and concentrate, which helps them learn to read and work on scientific projects as they discover to solve problems. The interplay of these skills is a crucial concept for the breadth of skills. We need education strategies to help young people cultivate them. Young people today are agile learners who can adapt and learn new things in new and changing environments. Indeed, the idea that technical skills have nothing to do with other knowledge is outdated. There is a gap between the digital skills people need to live, learn, and work in the digital world. The need to expand and bridge this gap is a complex problem that

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams requires government officials, educators, and business leaders to come together. Data scientists with industry knowledge and experience, for example, can receive salaries up to 50% higher than those with purely technical skills. The business world is increasingly recognizing that their talent pool should not be viewed as a collection of job titles, but rather as a collection of skills that their employees possess. These new positions create what Burning Glass calls a “new genome of jobs” by combining skills from previous roles with those in the new role. We believe companies must think about accessing and engaging a talent pool that is no longer accessible through traditional recruitment channels. Employers can find employees who use specific job descriptions and recruitment rather than spend time and effort digging through the applicant pool to find the perfect employee. Traditionally, companies hire long-term, full-time employees that work 40 hours a week in an environment structured around a nine-to-five work schedule. In recent decades, there has been a shift away from individuals who have made a lifelong career in a single company and an opening up of the talent economy to individuals and institutions who are making fewer and fewer long-term commitments. They stress the importance of maintaining a positive attitude to a successful job search. Although you cannot control whether the employer hired you, you can put your best foot forward with a strong resume, prepare an excellent interview response, and

James H. Morris research potential employers within your network. I am amazed at the number of recruiters who tell me job candidates do not get past potential employers in job interviews simply because they arrived with the wrong mindset. If you want to change jobs, you should first look for ways to position yourself among people who do what you want to do and build your new contacts. This is where your platform is located: outward, where you pool your various talents, skills, and interests to present them to potential employers and mentors you work with. As we all know, change in the world of work is a constant, as technology creates new standards. The world around us is constantly evolving as new technologies change the way we work. Adaptability is a very sought-after skill for candidates in any industry. The world of work is constantly changing thanks to new technologies, increasing automation, and predictive analyzes. The definition of work will continue to change in the evolution’s light of employment and demographic trends in the labor force. What we learn will continue to adjust, also due to changing business and professional needs. The good news is that experience, and soft skills can help drive digital change. Not a single industry leader gets to where he is today by doing the same things in the same way throughout his career. The combination of today’s personal characteristics that

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams will remain relevant over time and emerging digital skills will help business leaders become the digital leaders of the future. As the workplace changes and evolves, both workers and jobseekers need to change with it. In the following, we show how to broaden your perspective, prepare for changes and adapt to a constantly evolving workplace environment.

Being Prepared for a Changing World You must accept that your workplace and industry are constantly evolving as a first step toward becoming more adaptable. Using new tools and software has become one of the most prominent ways organizations are evolving. It is becoming increasingly more common for employees to work remotely, which makes understanding new technology and software (such as video conferencing) particularly crucial.

Change is Inevitable; Prepare For It Nowadays, our work environment is constantly changing, so it is essential to be prepared for anything that may come your way. As a result, you are always on the lookout for ways to increase your educational and professional knowledge. To help you, here are some suggestions:

Check Out the Latest Articles and Books Studies have shown that reading is beneficial to developing your brain and helping you make better decisions. Consider reading articles and books in your core discipline as well as outside it.

James H. Morris Your knowledge will be expanded if you consume information from different thought leaders.

Follow coworkers on other teams It's impossible to predict when you might be tasked with new tasks with your work environment constantly varying. By observing your successful colleagues, you will be able to quickly learn and understand what you need to do to succeed.

Attend Classes and Seminars The more technology we rely on, the more you'll be able to use new skills in your career. You can learn relevant skills by enrolling in a class that will not only help you prepare for change, but will also keep you valuable in a highly competitive world.

Question Everything Knowledge is split into three kinds: Knowledge that you have, the knowledge you do not have, and the knowledge you do not know you do not have. It is essential that you ask more questions in order to understand the last two. Ask "why" questions before asking "how" questions when attempting to understand a task or project. It helps to know why you do something before you can choose the best way to do it.

Engage Your Customers' Communities Each person has a unique perspective. By getting involved in your customer's

communities

and

changing

your

approach

accordingly, you will be able to understand how your customers think and what their needs are. 8

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

Resources Available Online There's a high probability that someone has written an article, created a YouTube video, or built a dedicated learning site already (if it's more complicated) to guide you through new tasks or offer some pointers. Almost anything new can be learned simply through a simple Google search, from sources like YouTube Learning, Udemy, or Grow with Google.

A Flexible Mindset is Essential Not every situation can be anticipated. In order to handle unexpected changes, a person must be capable of being selfreliant and adaptable.

Open Your Mind and Don't Complain Our workplaces are changing at a rapid pace, so accepting these changes can be challenging. There are times when we want to believe the old method was just better. You'll get slowed down by negativity at work and be less able to keep up with the times if you dwell on the past and complain about change. Adapt to your new environment and start looking for innovative ways to accomplish your goals, keeping an open mind and understanding that change can be good.

Innovative Thinking Writing down problems provides the best opportunity to spark creativity. After that, just write solution ideas without erasing, deleting, or even hesitating. There will most likely be a few good ideas, too, even if you come up with 100 not so terrific ideas. The

James H. Morris key to having a creative mind involves accepting all of your ideas (both good and bad) and applying them in new ways to solve a problem.

Change Your Perspective The definition of insanity is persisting in doing the same thing over and over while expecting different results. The saying has been repeated a hundred times, but how often do you apply it to your work? For instance, how have you made changes recently to grow in your workplace? Taking a different approach is the best thing for you if you answer nothing. Try to break out of your comfort zone or explore different approaches to achieving your goals. Suppose you work in sales and rely on your personal script to make sales. Try dropping the script and try something different. The worst-case scenario is you'll figure out what doesn't work by talking to your customer like your best friend. Let's say that you stayed with your script, but you received the same amount of sales. What would be wrong here? This will never lead to an increase in sales. Growing requires trying new things.

In a simple example, a successful marketing manager saved herself from career upheaval by taking intelligent risks. This included creating PowerPoint presentations with their own skills and experience to determine what knowledge was lacking. To be future-proof, she reviewed her professional strengths and weaknesses, took progress in her chosen role seriously, 10

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams addressed shortcomings, and provided education and experience to serve as a launchpad for future opportunities.

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https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2021/03/08/navigating-

your-career-through-the-changing-world-of-work/ [6]:

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changing-world [7]: http://www.workonewestcentral.org/34.html [8]:

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changing-world [9]:

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21/changing-nature-of-careers-in-21st-century.html [10]: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/289733 [11]: https://www.brookings.edu/research/skills-for-a-changing-world/

James H. Morris [12]:

https://www.valpo.edu/career-center/faculty-staff/career-

development-and-your-student/

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

James H. Morris

Having The Right Mind Set Looking for a Job It’s not just a nuisance to have on your to-do list; it’s crucial for future success and happiness. Some jobs have higher returns than others, and you can go through applications without having much to show for it in terms of actual results. The current situation is complicated, of course, and each of us experiences our own unique challenges. Still, when an interview is scheduled, it is essential to focus on the job. Regardless of what you do, approach your interview, be it a phone call or video call, with a positive and constructive attitude. Adopting a positive mindset allows you to do your best during the interview, knowing that you are as well prepared as possible. I know it sounds a bit daunting, but a rethink can really help you build healthy confidence. Start by noticing what you think and what you complain about in your current job or job search. Success requires a change of mentality and a positive attitude. This chapter aims to help you develop the right mentality when you step away from traditional workplace work. Change your mindset by breaking down the myths you might believe. A job search mindset encompasses many aspects of a job search. It offers a view from both the perspective of buyers and employers. As part of the mentality process, perform a selfassessment at the beginning of the remote job search process to determine gaps. 14

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams It is essential to focus on your career goals and your job search goals to stay on the right track to achieve the results you want. For example, leaving one job can lead you to a job that helps pay your bills while your long-term goal is to run a Fortune 500 company. Stay consistent and treat your job search as a job that helps you get there. When writing a job specification, think about how you will be flexible with your looking criteria. When you look at a job silo, think about how it is likely to change in the future and how it will fit into the team's skills. Now that you know the tactical things you need to do to start your job search, update your resume and LinkedIn profile, reach out to former colleagues and mentors to learn more about job opportunities, and list the top companies and job titles you are looking for. Your mindset is an established attitude that you take about your life and what you believe about yourself. It has the power to influence your success, and it plays a critical role in how you manage and overcome challenges. Before you look for your next job, you must be clear about your thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes to ensure that they prepare you for a successful job search. You get excited when you see a great job advertisement that matches the qualifications and dreams of jobs. You are so happy that you compile your cover letter and CV, send them to the company, and expect to receive a call for an interview and a

James H. Morris possible job offer. But if that call never comes, you feel let down and consider giving up the search. Worse, your resentment of your current position has reached an all-time high. A lengthy job search can test even the most cordial of souls. Mixing narrow internal timelines with slow external outcomes can be a significant challenge. You’ve been applying for jobs for months and eventually get one or two interviews, but nothing comes out. If you start your job search from a place of doubt, fear, and frustration, you will only get more of these feelings. Letting negatives take control of the search will only make it fail. The feeling of being interviewed negatively ruins any positive points and leads the interviewer to remember how desperately he was looking for the job. If you are told not to take turns for a job, it will be hard not to, especially if you have made it to the job interview. This negativity resulting from real challenges to the workforce can cause you to believe you are destined for an interminable and unproductive job search. Most job seekers fall into this mindset of deprivation because they have had unpleasant experiences in the past, and they buy into the negative experiences of others. If you think jobs are limited, a single offer will seem like a miracle, and you will panic and feel forced to accept it even if you are not sure that it will fit well.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Many job seekers believe that their career potential is limited by the experience contained in the four cornerstones of their resume. The second big myth is that your dream job will not be your first job or that there is no need to work for you. One must not forget that human abilities are limitless. One does not have to learn to be one to get the first job, provided one has the right qualities, skills, and attitude. I have never met anyone who is not afraid of the change that comes with a new job. This fear can manifest itself even before you get the job, which can lead to shaky job interviews.

##### Sources ##### [0]:

https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/remote-job-search-

mindset [1]: https://www.morganphilips.com/en/insights/4-tips-for-hiring-peoplewith-an-adaptable-mindset [2]: https://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/21068/careers_and_job_hu nting/7_ways_to_gear_up_your_job_search_mindset.html [3]:

https://phenomenalimage.com/getting-your-mind-right-for-your-job-

search-during-challenging-times/ [4]:

https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2018/08/three-key-elements-

successful-job-search-mindset [5]: https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2015/07/02/how-to-keep-asuccessful-mindset-on-the-job-hunt/

James H. Morris [6]:

https://www.themuse.com/advice/2-mindset-changes-thatll-make-

your-long-job-search-a-little-less-stressful [7]:

https://www.job-hunt.org/job-search-mindset/job-search-

mindset.shtml [8]: https://jessicadw.com/blog/2020/2/16/3-mindset-shifts-you-need-tomake-before-you-start-your-job-search [9]: https://medium.com/@EmployCrossing/the-importance-of-a-positivemindset-during-your-job-search-ff1baee71c05 [10]:

https://www.insightassessment.com/article/how-will-you-know-

youre-hiring-the-right-candidates [11]: https://oliviajaras.com/2020/11/28/getting-in-the-right-mindset-totake-your-career-to-the-next-level/ [12]: https://social.hays.com/2020/04/03/positive-mindset-before-remotejob-interview/ [13]:

https://think-boundless.com/future-of-work-mindset-shift-your-

thinking-to-do-work-that-matters/ [14]: https://www.interviewsuccessformula.com/job-search-advice/whichis-more-important-skill-set-or-mindset.php [15]:

https://content.mycareersfuture.gov.sg/careercoaching/article/a-

right-mindset-gets-you-closer-to-your-next-job/

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

James H. Morris

Dealing With Challenges Searching for a Job A significant challenge for job seekers is that if they do not receive feedback on their application or interview, they have no chance of correcting any problems or errors in their performance in the application before applying for the next job. Candidates often send in applications, conduct job interviews, and spend time, effort, and energy trying out for a particular job, only to receive a terse “You weren’t selected for the position” that feels like a slap in the face. When candidates are interviewed, they often have no idea what to do with themselves because the employer’s recruitment process does not involve keeping them informed. You may face challenges in your career, including finding a job, starting a new role, or getting promoted. Some workers may have their own challenges, including lack of experience or obstacles to finding a new job. Staying positive can help you motivate yourself and focus on overcoming challenges such as refusals to work and employee conflicts. Whether you are a newcomer or a senior manager, you have to face challenges in the workplace. Competition can be challenging. You may have made one or two serious mistakes when looking for a job. A lack of callbacks for job interviews or a plethora of cancelations can bring you down. It is normal to feel frustrated and beaten when looking for a new job. Unsuccessful job hunting can be frustrating, but taking an old job and giving up and comforting yourself with a tub of ice is not the answer. 20

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams To help you, we have listed 10 common difficulties people face when looking for a job and how to overcome them. Overcoming the biggest challenges in finding your first job in your search can be scary, confusing, and insurmountable. But along the way, there is a slippery slope, and there are a few things you can do to ensure that you are successful in your job search. [Sources:

1. Not Knowing What To Do It's unlikely that you'll be very successful at finding a job if you approach it as a scattergun approach. It’s probably a good idea to take a step back and rethink your strategy if you constantly send out 20 applications a day in the hope of getting a call from at least one company. Take time to read the job description closely and make sure you have the skills and experience required. This will give you a better chance of land a new job since you will be focused on tasks you are capable of doing.

2. Having Trouble Beating Applicant Tracking Systems Recruiters are often overwhelmed by applicant tracking systems, making it difficult for candidates to get their CVs into their hands. It is becoming more and more common for HR managers to rely on automated systems to identify suitable candidates based on keyword matching - undoubtedly one of the worst technological solutions to use. Though most applicants are turned down by application tracking systems, you could be one of those successful applicants. Before sending off your application, you 21

James H. Morris need to address a few points. The first step is to ensure that the exact keywords from the job description appear naturally in your CV. The second step is to run your CV through an online ATS to catch any errors or missed opportunities before submitting it to the hiring manager.

3. Lacking Connections Getting noticed – and hired – by employers is much easier with a referral in today's job search. Employee referral programs are not only less costly than recruiting, but they also make you appear more trustworthy to recruiters because you have the benefit of a shared connection to verify your credentials. It's therefore, better to talk to your contacts about your job search if you are searching alone - they might know about an opening at their company and recommend you. In the meantime, attend networking events to build your professional network.

4. Leaving the Cover Letter Out In many cases, job applicants fail to submit a cover letter when they apply for a position. Sadly, many people assume that hiring managers won't read their cover letter and are basically wasting their time. However, even if they don't always read your cover letter, it doesn't mean that you should give up on it! Cover letters show what you're like, what you're like professionally, and how you handle details in a way a CV or resume cannot. Even though job ads do not always specify that a cover letter is needed, you should always include one with your CV. If you don't, you may lose an interview opportunity. In light of this, don't just write

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams jargon; your cover letter should demonstrate how you can contribute to the hiring manager's team, along with examples of how you've done so in past roles.

5. Confidence Issues The most significant barrier to employment success is a lack of confidence. Your application or interview (should you manage to land one) will not be able to sell yourself to a potential employer if you lack confidence in your abilities to perform well on the job. Your friends and family can give you pointers that will help you become more confident. While practicing your responses to common interview questions is crucial to preparing for an interview, keep these tips in mind. You won't have the confidence to proceed without adequate preparation.

6. Using Only Job Adverts You should not rely solely on job advertisements to secure a new job, even though they are a good source of opportunities. Consider making a list of employers that you'd like to work for in the future and checking their websites for upcoming openings? Utilizing this approach will improve your chances of landing your dream job considerably! If you're looking for a job, you should also spend a lot of time on LinkedIn; with their targeted search engine, you'll receive job suggestions that are tailored to your skills and experience, so you'll have a better chance of success.

James H. Morris

7. One CV Version Only Having only one version of your CV, which you then send out to multiple job positions, is another rookie error. In fact, this is neither efficient nor effective as different jobs need different skills. As a result, instead of having one CV for all roles, create a different version for each one you are interested in and capable of performing. Having said that, you can simply modify your career objective or tweak your work experience section to meet the job requirements; there is no need to redo the entire document from scratch. In order to ensure the application passes the ATS we mentioned above, it might be a good idea to emphasize different skills for different opportunities.

8. Using Headhunters and Recruiters You shouldn't rely solely on headhunters or recruiters to locate new career opportunities. Ultimately, their primary concern is satisfying their clients (who are paying their salary) to choose a comfortable match for them and not necessarily for you. Rather than wasting time on a recruiter who promises you the moon but doesn’t provide anything worthwhile, you should focus on networking with clients and colleagues.

9. Failure to Follow Up There has been a time when I have done this, and probably times when you have to! Our applications are often sent off. Then we wait (sometimes for weeks) without even following up with the hiring manager.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams It has only just begun after you submit your CV and cover letter, so although you think your job is done, we are just starting! It is not harmful to send an email or call to ask about your application's status. Showing your commitment to securing the job can actually help you move ahead in the interview process.

10. Being Unclear About Your Career Goals Many reasons force us to seek a new job, including being unhappy with our jobs, being laid off, or changing careers. There's a remarkably small chance of feeling compelled to take the first offer we receive without really considering our goals in each of these situations. If you want to ensure you always stay on top of your career goals when looking for a job, you should look at the list of your three top career goals each time you apply for a new position. You should move on to something else if the job doesn't seem to match your criteria! Even though you may think you will never get the chance to do what you really want to do, you can achieve it if you work hard and dedicate yourself.

The first time is hard enough, but finding your first full-time job is at the top of the list of the scariest, most confusing, and most daunting ventures you’ll ever face. Whether you are applying for a job that will affect the course of your career, interviewing with strangers for a position that has no power, or dealing with cancelations on the way to signing a letter of offer, etc. We spoke to experts who gave us advice on tackling the five most significant challenges facing the entry-level world with this concern in mind. 25

James H. Morris

Challenge No. 1: It's difficult to know precisely which jobs suit your major. How can you overcome it: Does it seem that there are no jobs that perfectly fit your major? If you're not sure how to connect your education to a career you'll love, then it's time to meet with the people who can help. “Speak with alumni and network with industry professionals to help determine where your background fits in the workforce, especially for liberal arts students,” says Kimberly Brown, associate director of employer outreach at Princeton University. Get in touch with the career services office at your university as soon as possible, if you haven't done so already. Their job is to guide you in choosing a career field and a job that is right for you.

Challenge No. 2: Your employment history is lacking. Here's a way to overcome its impact: So you've decided on a job—or several jobs—where you can see your future. We now find ourselves in a Catch-22 situation. Those entering the workforce for the first time have no on-the-job experience, so they find themselves in the same boat as countless others. But if you're ready to put in some extra effort - and maybe do some free work - you could differentiate yourself and land a job sooner than you would have thought possible.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams “Contact companies with a proposal for a project that you can autonomously implement within their businesses pro bono (for free),” says Brette Rowley, a career and business coach to young professionals based in Charleston, South Carolina. “Not only will this give you experience, but you’ll also make valuable connections in the industry that you’re interested in.”

Challenge No. 3: The interview process is new to you. Getting around it: OK, so you did the work for free, gaining valuable experience in the process. Next, you'll be interviewed for the job. A job search is not complete without in-person interviews. It's the interview that the hiring managers -- and the rest of your team - decide if you're the right fit for the job. An interview can be one of the most stressful parts of a job search because of this. “Do a mock interview with your friends, or ideally with someone you don’t know, and go to as many interviews as you can,” recommends career coach Anna-Jane Niznikowska. It's crucial to practice interviews. Even if you don't get every job you apply for, you'll be improving your "selling yourself" abilities, so soon, you won't feel any interview nerves. When it comes to interviewing...

James H. Morris

Challenge No. 4: Having so many people to meet overwhelms you. There is an easy solution: In many cases, companies will form teams of interviewers to handle entry-level positions, often including three, four, or more employees. Depending on the size of your brand, you may speak with people from low-level managers to C-suite executives. Regardless of your role, you need to make sure you understand what each individual at the organization can expect from you. “Ensure that the initial recruiter provides the names and titles of the interviewers, [and] the backgrounds of each interviewer,” says Elaine Krehmeyer, owner of her career coaching business, Career Revelations Research in Atlanta. “Prepare customized, thoughtful questions for each interviewer. Understand that what is important to a high-level hiring manager will be different than a peer level teammate, with both having an important role in the hiring decision.”

Challenge No. 5: The entry-level salary shocks and horrifies you. Here's how to overcome it: Congrats on landing the job! The truth is that entry-level workers often earn too little money. The good news is that these situations are usually temporary. “Understand that this will pass, that this position is a stepping stone to get into 28

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams your chosen career,” says Laurie Berenson, founder of Sterling Career Concepts, a job search consultancy based in New York City. “Do not take it personally. Find ways to cut expenses in all other areas of your life. After 1-2 years, salary and responsibilities improve." And remember to always negotiate-even when it comes to entry-level jobs. You may be able to get more than you think.

Recruiters and companies prefer to work with retained candidates because they are more likely to have up-to-date skills. However, applying for a job during working hours can be a logistical nightmare for you. Suppose your boss warns you of an impending layoff or allows you to use your time at the company to look for a job. In that case, you need to channel your inner Jason and make your next move secretly.

1. Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is current When a recruiter or employer sees your resume, they will check your LinkedIn profile. Updating your profile now is the best thing you can do. Be sure to consider these points before you begin editing. The first step would be to turn off notifications so that your profile updates are not broadcast to your entire network. Second, do not say on your profile that you are seeking a new job - your employer may be watching. Last but not least, keep your current job skills

James H. Morris consistent with the skills on your resume. Changing your online profile dramatically, mainly if it no longer reflects the position you hold, can indicate a possible career change.

2. Avoid posting your resume on job boards The fastest way to kill a discrete job search is to receive 15 recruiter messages, including three voicemails on your work phone. Job boards are not the place to post your resume. A networking job board may not present you with the best opportunity, but the assurance that your boss won't see your resume online more than compensates for the risk.

3. Don’t drop hints Staying silent about your search can be frustrating and unsatisfying. If your interview didn't go well, you might want to commiserate with co-workers or tell your boss that you don't care about a recent reprimand since you are nearly out. Keep your mouth shut and resist temptation. Sometimes telling one coworker is like telling them all at once! It also applies to social media. It is not uncommon for employers to monitor the social media accounts of their employees. No matter whether they do, you never know who is connecting with whom on the virtual network. Please refrain from posting updates about your job search, such as “Wish me luck! I have another interview with ABC company this afternoon! To the vaguer version, "Something exciting is in the works!" You'll find out next week.”

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

4. As much as possible, schedule interviews outside of work hours It's only a matter of time before you raise suspicion after so many 9 AM doctor's appointments! Consider meeting after work or over breakfast - many companies respect your confidentiality needs and will accommodate your request. Consider taking a vacation or personal day during working hours if the interview is scheduled during business hours. It might seem reasonable to call in sick, but I would not recommend it. You might still be expected to participate in the 11 AM conference call from home, so you'd have more to explain. Make the right decision and take the day off, so you aren't distracted or required to work.

5. Be stealthy It's important to follow your ninja stealth in what you wear after an interview. Show up to work in a suit and tie when you usually wear jeans and a blazer on a Friday - this will make heads turn. People ask about your attire, forcing you to speak before you are prepared or lie. You may want to bring a change of clothes with you to wear after the interview if you usually wear business casual (or casual). You can also stop by home on your way to the office for a quick change.

6. Do not sabotage your progress The most common way a covert job search is uncovered is through self-sabotage. Take responsibility, and don't let anyone

James H. Morris pressure you into fighting with a "could care less" attitude. Be as focused on your work as possible and avoid conflict whenever possible. Additionally, do not use the company network or phone to search for a new job. You should always assume that your employer is looking. A firing due to inappropriate use of company resources won't help you find work.

7. Avoid using your co-workers and boss as references Putting down your boss's name as a reference could seem completely natural if you have worked for this company for many years. Before you are offered a job, the potential employer can call you and surprise your current manager. The purpose of reference checks is to reinforce your qualifications for a job - not to be a screening tool for recruiters and hiring managers. Do not provide reference names until the end of the application process to protect your professional network.

8. Request discretion prospective employer

from

your

Hiring managers and recruiters typically assume that your current employer is unaware that you're seeking employment. You should be clear and specific about your need for discretion. Pick another professional to help in your search if your recruiter refuses to honor your preference. 32

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

9. Become more efficient Your situation is complicated because you have a full-time job on top of your job search. Where do you find the time to devote to the new opportunity while remaining focused and productive at work? While working, you should plan ahead and get organized to look for a job. Create a professional cover letter layout and update your online profile so that you are not starting over in the job search. It is best to prioritize tasks, assign deadlines, and keep a current calendar to not double-book appointments.

10. Act with caution and don't act prematurely There is no such thing as hope as a strategy! Keep your cool, and don't do anything rash just because you had a good interview. Until you have accepted a job offer and signed the paperwork, you don't have a new job. You need to carefully consider anything you say or do up until then. In other words, while you are employed, you need to remain discreet, patient, and cautious about pursuing a job. There is nothing wrong with staying at your current job if you discover that you enjoy it. You would have gained a newfound appreciation for your short commute, exciting work, or good working relationship with your boss due to the interview process. However, sometimes a job search reveals the grass is only

James H. Morris greener on the other side. As it stands, no job is perfect - and this process may help you rediscover your passion.

Carrying out a job search can be one of the most stressful experiences in a person’s life. For people looking for work, the reasons for their unemployment and their stories are often similar. During their transition from one company to another, the labor market is fluid for these people when they are laid off or made jobless. Whether you’re looking to get your first job or are employed and needing a change, the demands of looking for a job can be overwhelming. If you ignore them, you may feel that applications disappear into a black hole, or an application disappears into an underworld of job-hunting. The energy and confidence of jobseekers may be damaged. Although each search is unique for the objectives and situation of the job seekers, the challenges in a job search are cross-sectoral, job-related, and skills-related. Just when it seems like you have figured things out and are making progress, stumbling blocks appear and threaten to stand between you and your dream job. When you feel unemployed, you let others around you - your parents, mentors, significant others - exacerbate the rollercoaster of emotions you already have. Your career is inextricably linked to your identity for most people, so if you feel that finding a job is a quest for a piece of yourself - even if that piece already exists - you feel insecure and incomplete. 34

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams There are a few different things that you can do to advance forward, and there are many challenges in finding a job that you need to overcome to make it through with as little stress as possible. With the right strategies, you can overcome these challenges, stay positive and make your job search more effective. Talking to people on a network like LinkedIn, or requesting informative interviews, is a proactive way to move forward in the job search. An elevator pitch that highlights your experience, skills, and achievements will attract attention when you connect. However, do not write the old jargon in your cover letter, but tell the HR manager about the relevant skills you have, with examples of how you have used them in previous positions. Another challenge for job seekers is to think about the unique skills they bring to a job, what would excite them at the job they are applying for, and what would excite them and the company they have applied to. You can visit job fairs and other forums and job lists to look for jobs you think would suit the jobseeker or send job advertisements by email to job seekers. You can also think about the strengths and weaknesses of job seekers and make them think about their strengths and weaknesses. By sharing these tips with job seekers, you can act as a source of information, just as you would try to predict where the wind is blowing by focusing on where it is blowing. You can also help job seekers by keeping your antenna (your ear on the ground) on

James H. Morris what you hear on the news and the radio and reading random articles that might be useful. Even if a job does not come to an end, an expanded network can be a tremendous advantage for you when you seize your next opportunity. It contradicts the anonymity you might have experienced when looking for a job. Still, it allows employers to put a face on a name.

##### Sources ##### [0]: https://www.thriveyard.com/28-ways-to-help-someone-searching-fora-job/ [1]:

https://www.wayup.com/guide/answer-tell-challenge-overcome-

workplace/ [2]:

https://www.cnbc.com/2020/10/12/6-ways-to-manage-job-search-

burnout.html [3]:

https://ripplematch.com/journal/article/the-biggest-challenges-for-

students-searching-for-a-job-during-covid-19-160a5b32 [4]: https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/common-job-search-challengesovercome/ [5]:

https://www.themuse.com/advice/5-ways-to-keep-going-when-the-

job-search-is-getting-you-down [6]: https://re-new-ist.com/3-ways-to-overcome-job-search-challenges/ [7]:

https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/10-tips-on-effectively-

looking-for-a-job-while-employed

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams [8]: https://blog.rpoassociation.org/blog/5-top-challenges-of-talented-jobseekers [9]:

https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/how-to-overcome-

the-biggest-challenges-of-looking-for-your-first-job-1116 [10]:

https://blog.sparksgroupinc.com/candidate/3-common-job-search-

challenges-how-beat-them [11]: https://www.careeraddict.com/job-search-difficulties [12]:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/9-problems-job-searching-seekers-

perspective-douglas-schiano-mba [13]:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-

development/overcome-workplace-challenges

James H. Morris

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

Self-Inventory: How you perceive yourself at work Use a variety of self-assessment tools to assemble the puzzle pieces. Even if you summarize all of your qualities, there is a good chance that you do not know how to use them to find a career that suits you best. Individual work-related values, interests, personality types, and talents can cause you to ignore some, and they may not give you accurate answers. Consider looking for the type of work that distinguishes you. One that influences your personality, and that you enjoy, and what you should be doing and why. Recognizing personal values, abilities, and strengths requires introspection, which can be a new and uncomfortable experience for many people. Many exercises and activities can help people shape reflected thinking, so that career options make sense. Many consultants have found that few career evaluations are popular with the graduate population. Joel Garfinkle is a leader in helping individuals apply concepts of executive coaching to workplace success. He has developed the following perceptual analyzes to help you learn what others think of you in the workplace. •

Advocates Speak on Your Behalf - Advocates are individuals who speak out for your cause, advancing your cause among decision-makers and improving your image.

James H. Morris •

Working on high-visibility projects - You work on projects that have a great deal of visibility.

•

Praise From Others To Your Boss - You're able to add value to any project or interaction you're involved in.

•

Bosses Share Contributions to Their Bosses - Your bosses' bosses know how well you are doing because your bosses share your contributions to the company.

•

You are valued by management - Management understands how valuable your work is.

•

Exposure to influential corporate leaders - You interact with your organization's top leaders to directly impact their perception of you.

•

Knowing your impact on others - When you go above and beyond expectations for your clients, customers, or vendors, solve problems or provide excellent service, you have indirectly encouraged them to tell their superiors.

•

Aligned with People Others Respect - You interact with influential, respected, and respected people as leading figures.

•

Leading a Project - You have introduced yourself to other business units in addition to your own and the impact you have on others.

•

The perception that management has of you - You know how it perceives you now, and you are identifying ways to reinforce the positive aspects while eradicating the negative ones.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams An important exception to their findings concerns the selfperception and perception of strangers. Brian Connelly is an associate professor in U of T Scarborough’s Department of Management. Much of his research focuses on how people function in the workplace and at school, saying that self and group perceptions of personality help us cope with social situations. Keeping these factors under control is essential to understand how people actually function, Connelly says. For starters, each person has an idiosyncratic way of assessing others and metaperceptions of themselves, which are determined by their own self-understanding. When a person you meet judges you, they do so through a unique lens that gives some consistency to their view of others. Some people find it difficult to understand how they perceive themselves. Some people, for example, are sympathetic and see themselves as good-natured and intelligent. To get a clearer picture of how people see you, the author recommends following this four-step process. •

Choose five people. Consider choosing colleagues you frequently encounter at work: bosses, executives, direct reports, colleagues, and even former colleagues. People with an ear to the ground who work with influential coworkers make excellent sources. Better yet, if they know you from more than one side of your life or work. Choosing people whose opinions you trust is essential,

James H. Morris but make sure that they will tell it straight if they are telling the truth. •

Make sure you meet face-to-face. Make it clear that whatever the person tells you will be kept confidential, which encourages honesty. You’ll be getting feedback from several people to find themes, which lessens the load on any one person. If you can, make the request in person. Participation is more likely if people can see you. You can also talk over the phone if you cannot be physically present. Provide any answers you can ahead of the meeting if you need to make the request via email.

•

There are two questions you should ask. You can tap into the collective wisdom of the group by asking these two simple questions:

•

How do people see me in general?

•

Is there anything I could change to make my success more likely?

•

You should expect to hear responses that range from helpful and eye-opening to vague and confusing. It may be beneficial to use feedback specific to the job or project if the person is uncomfortable. In that case, clarify:

•

Thank you for your feedback. Would you mind letting me know how people perceive me as a leader, colleague, or person in general?

•

Be in control of your reaction. Refrain from explaining yourself,

defending

your

actions,

revealing

disappointment. In real-time, your interviewers will be 42

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams looking at the results of their feedback. Your ability to remain comfortable while receiving feedback will determine the quality of your feedback. If you need details or examples, please ask. And end with a sincere thank you. This exercise is excellent for encouraging participants to think about their self-image and strengths in the critical areas of their lives. Reminding them that there is no wrong or right answer is an opportunity to address their self-image. This exercise is simple to set up and allows great conversations between individuals or groups. Ask people after the meeting for a general perception of who you are and what you are doing, which significantly impacts your success. Be aware that you are keeping what each person tells you confidentially to promote honesty. You are gathering feedback from multiple people to find topics to reduce the burden on one person. Once you have done this and completed the four-step process with various people, you can look for patterns in their reactions and make commitments to change. The

personality

inventory

helps

you

determine

your

characteristics and behaviors, using it to assess your interests. We divide the test questions into different categories, and participants answer statements that match their personalities. Participants can use their results to determine which type of role in the workplace best suits their personal qualities.

James H. Morris (The

following

exercises

are

duplicated

with

permission

from

PositivePsychology.com.)

1. ‘Who Am I?’ Exercise This is a wonderful introductory exercise that can be used with individuals or groups. The premise is straightforward to replicate, and participants can take as long as they need to complete the initial statements, with plenty of encouragement for discussion. You will need: •

Pens

•

Paper

Purpose: To encourage participants to think more deeply about the ideas and labels they have about themselves. Method: Provide each participant with a list of statements – suggested amount 15-20 – that ask them to think about who they are. Some example statements include:

•

My favorite food is …

•

My favorite music is …

•

An important person in my life is …

•

Something I dislike …

•

An idea for my future I have is …

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Encourage participants to answer all statements. Ask them to reflect on the answers they choose and why these are important to them. Remind them there are no wrong or right answers, just the opportunity to engage with their sense of self-concept.

2. ‘My Strengths’ Exercise This exercise is great to encourage participants to start thinking about their self-concept of their strengths in critical areas of life. Again, it is very easy to set up and will enable some great conversations with individuals or groups. You will need: •

Pens

•

Paper

Purpose: To encourage participants to reflect on their strengths in different key areas. Method: Provide participants with pen and paper and ask them to divide their paper into four sections with the following headings:

•

Social

•

Interests/Sports

•

Family

•

School/Work

James H. Morris Next, read out some statements that could relate to each of the sections and ask participants to write down the ones they feel most relate to them. Aim for 5-6 statements for each of the four categories. Example statements include: •

I always try my best at school/work.

•

I am a caring friend.

•

I help out around the house.

•

I like to be creative.

•

I enjoy team sports.

Once participants get the idea, encourage them to reflect further on the four areas, and write down some of their unique strengths.

3. ‘Three Compliments Journal’ Exercise This exercise is great for any individual who struggles with selfconcept, and who has low self-esteem or low self-image in particular. Similar to many journal exercises; it is easy to implement and consistency is key to its success. You will need: •

Journal/notebook

•

Pen

Purpose: To increase ideas of self-concept – in particular, self-esteem and self-image.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Method: Participants are required to spend 5-10 minutes a day reflecting on three compliments they would give themselves about how they behaved, interacted, engaged, or looked during the day. The compliments can focus on anything they like. The idea is to reflect on the positives about themselves they might otherwise dismiss. Example compliments could include things like: •

I liked my outfit today, and the compliments I received because of it.

•

Today I was kind to the lady in the store and offered to help her with her bags.

•

I’m proud of my school/work presentation. My teacher/boss said I did a great job.

Ask participants to repeat this exercise daily, for as long as they need to. Remind them it’s okay if they forget some days and it might be challenging to think of three things at first, but it will get easier over time. Personality inventories are self-assessment methods that are standardized questionnaires that provide insights into the character of an individual. They help assess an individual’s strengths and weaknesses in different areas and their social characteristics, motivations, and attitudes. One of the 16 personality types helps participants identify their ideal professional and work environment and understand how they work and interact with others. 47

James H. Morris (The following personality types have been extracted from MyersBriggs.org)

Extraversion or Introversion The first category relates to the way you focus your efforts and thoughts. If you are more inclined to exert yourself toward things outside of yourself, including interacting with other people and exploring the world, you are likely an extravert. If you prefer to focus internally, with your energy devoted to reflection and consideration of ideas, beliefs and information, you are an introvert.

Sensing or Intuition The second category in a Meyers-Briggs personality type is determined by how you process information. If you tend to process information based on what you can see, or experience directly or through facts, then you are a sensing individual. If you learn by assessing or instinct, then you are likely guided by intuition.

Thinking or Feeling The next category relates to how you make decisions. An individual with a thinking designation trusts in logic when making decisions. A feeling person is more likely to react to situations emotionally, allowing feelings to guide their decision-making process.

Judging or Perceiving The final category is determined by how much structure you like to have in your daily life. When you place a priority on 48

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams organization and long-term plans, that is an indication that you are a judging person. Individuals who are more adaptable are considered to be perceiving.

Myers-Briggs personality types Understanding the 16 Myers-Briggs personality types can help you better understand and communicate with the people in your workplace. Here are the 16 personality types:

ISTJ (Introversion Sensing Thinking Judging) The combination of introspective thought and a firm adherence to logic and structure makes an ISTJ a highly effective employee. In the workplace, an ISTJ type will excel in positions that require organization, such as administrative roles and accounting roles, and can operate well without the need for close oversight and management. An ISTJ often puts a high value on learning, leading to a diverse skill set and is often the type of employee that can advance and accept new responsibilities.

ISTP (Introversion Perceiving)

Sensing

Thinking

Although similar to ISTJ types, an ISTP is less bound to structure in their daily life. In the workplace, this type is well-suited for practical fields, such as artisan construction and design. A commitment to learning and introspective study is useful for developing the skills needed to excel, while the ability to react in the moment and operate outside of normal constructs on occasion provides the creative intuition needed to make unique 49

James H. Morris constructions. An ISTP type will often enjoy jobs that allow them to work independently for much of the day so this type is an excellent employee in roles where you need them to be proactive with solutions

ISFJ (Introversion Sensing Feeling Judging) This personality type is well-suited for service and health care positions, as ISFJs are inclined to infer information from what they directly experience and work well when operating under strict guidelines. These individuals have a keen understanding of their own emotions and are often empathetic to those around them. In the workplace, they often seek analytical and support positions.

ISFP (Introversion Perceiving)

Sensing

Feeling

The ISFP personality type is associated with creative professionals who tend to function best as individuals. Although an ISFP may prefer to base their decisions on a grounding of personal experience, they’re comfortable improvising and relying on their initial reactions and feelings as opposed to being strictly bound to logical thinking. In the workplace, they are easy to get along with, are great communicators and work well with little supervision.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

INTJ (Introversion Judging)

Intuition

Thinking

With their mix of creative and logical thinking processes, INTJ personality types are well-equipped to succeed in roles where they are placed in charge of strategic planning. An INTJ enjoys spending time inwardly reflecting and assessing and prefers working according to a structured plan, which further increases their suitability for such a role. In the workplace, this type tends to excel in fields like project management, where they can use their talents to lead a team in the completion of a project.

INTP (Introversion Perceiving)

Intuition

Thinking

INTPs tend to be creative thinkers who excel in less conventional working opportunities. An INTP may prefer to work in a setting where they have a great deal of creative freedom to approach their tasks in unique ways and if given the choice, they would probably like to work with minimal direct oversight before completing a project. Although an INTP does like to base their decisions on logical conclusions, they also enjoy challenging traditional approaches and identifying more efficient ways of completing tasks. For this reason, they are great team players in the workplace and do well in positions that offer a chance to brainstorm or lead discussions.

James H. Morris

INFJ (Introversion Intuition Feeling Judging) The INFJ is commonly drawn to a field where they can work with others and help them fit into a larger framework effectively, such as human resources or counseling. Their strong ability to read situations and relate to others through their own experiences makes it easier to form bonds. In the workplace, their tendency toward structure and guidelines can help them assist others in training and learning new ideas.

INFP (Introversion Perceiving)

Intuition

Feeling

INFPs are highly creative, introverted individuals. Their intuitive and feeling approaches to daily life mean they place more weight on what they feel. They also tend to prefer an open working environment where they are free to create without strict guidelines. In the workplace, they often excel in positions where they are tasked with addressing a long-term approach for a company and providing smaller objectives for others to achieve the goal.

ESTJ (Extraversion Judging)

Sensing

Thinking

An ESTJ professional can be an excellent fit for a management or supervisory position within a company. As an extrovert, they are comfortable working with others, while their natural inclination toward order means they are adept at keeping a team within a company’s guidelines. They often work well when paired with one or more staff members who are more creatively attuned. 52

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

ESTP (Extraversion Perceiving)

Sensing

Thinking

ESTPs tend to be motivated professionals who like to interpret guidelines. ESTPs work well with others and like to make decisions by analyzing data and facts. While much of their approach is highly traditional, an ESTP is likely to apply the information they gather to pursue new methods. . Often, ESTPs are the innovators of their fields and they thrive in office environments that allow them to be creative and innovative.

ESFJ (Extraversion Sensing Feeling Judging) These individuals are best suited to work in structured environments that require them to understand and respond to the feelings and needs of others, such as health care or service positions. An ESFJ is likely to be detail oriented and comfortable working within a set framework of responsibilities and procedures. They are also adept at reading others and creating a comfortable work environment. They tend to be the type of coworker who listens to concerns and helps to problem-solve.

ESFP (Extraversion Perceiving)

Sensing

Feeling

This is the most common personality type for individuals who work in performative fields. ESFPs’ extroverted nature means they are comfortable performing in front of large groups, and a willingness to react in the moment and remain tuned into their emotions and the emotions of those around them can yield powerful performances. They prefer flexible work environments 53

James H. Morris and are great go-to employees for giving presentations and leading discussions.

ENTJ (Extraversion Judging)

Intuition

Thinking

An individual with an ENTJ classification is likely to excel in a leadership position within a creative field, such as marketing or product development. They have the ability to command a room, and their preference for a logical and structured approach to completing tasks is useful for keeping projects on schedule. In the workplace, they are great at identifying opportunities to improve and know how to create innovative approaches to common challenges.

ENTP (Extraversion Perceiving)

Intuition

Thinking

ENTPs are extraverted and highly analytical. They enjoy finding creative solutions to problems and will thrive in a setting where they have the freedom to pursue alternative courses of action. All of these traits combine with a strong belief in the value of logic over emotion to create a mind well-suited to analyzing a set of information and identifying new, more effective approaches. In the workplace, this type does well with analytical tasks and goaloriented projects where data needs to be assessed and new processes implemented.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

ENFJ (Extraversion Judging)

Intuition

Feeling

An ENFJ type is usually an engaging person who can make friends wherever they work. Although they have a strong connection with their own feelings and those of others around them, they maintain a preference for working within a well-defined set of guidelines. These skills can be applied across a variety of industries in any position where structured work is important, such as teaching or managing. This type is a loyal employee and empathetic coworker and performs well as part of a team.

ENFP (Extraversion Perceiving)

Intuition

Feeling

Those with ENFP classification are often charming and extroverted. In the workplace, they are excellent at working in a large group and prefer to make their own plans and passionately defend the viability of their proposed solutions. They are less interested in assessing the logical value of a proposal than they are in assessing its emotional appeal.

The Social Style Program teaches the use of multi-guess profiles as

option

for

self-perception.

practical

terms,

multifunctional assessment tools can add significant value to the findings of the assessed organization. The bias in self-perception stems from the fact that we get input from others, especially those who know us and have spent time 55

James H. Morris with us. Modern research has found that multi-rater information provides a more accurate picture of behavior, personality, and self-perception. On the flip side of self-perception, others can give us a more objective assessment of who we are and what we do. Insights that come from other perspectives are crucial at work. People rely on other impressions to boost self-perception, says William Swann, a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. His research shows that people with negative self-perceptions mislead others into judging them negatively because they suspect that the person they like most is someone they may not admire. As with other aspects of perception, there are positive and negative consequences of social comparison. You cannot apply the consensus that you have reached to one person for various reasons. Self-esteem is the only factor contributing to our self-image, and the perception of our competence plays a role in developing our self-esteem. Self-effectiveness and the judgments people make about their ability to perform a task in a particular context. We all want to know where we are in terms of skills and performance compared to other people, but information and how it affects self-image vary. Our interactions shape our self-understanding with others and their reactions to us. The concept of the “Looking Glass Self”

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams explains how we see ourselves in other peoples' reactions and how we shape our self-concept based on how we think other people see us (Cooley 1902). This reflective process builds our self-understanding based on what other people say (such as “You are a good listener”) and their actions (such as “Come to me for advice”). This process is beyond our control, and the people in our lives shaped much of it.

##### Sources ##### [0]: https://positivepsychology.com/self-concept-questionnaires-activities/ [1]:

https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2017/01/23/using-self-

assessment-tools-help-you-determine-best-career-yourself-essay [2]: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/12/181214124045.htm [3]:

https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/self-assessment-

results [4]: https://www.thebalancecareers.com/self-assessment-524753 [5]: https://open.lib.umn.edu/communication/chapter/2-3-perceiving-andpresenting-self/ [6]: https://garfinkleexecutivecoaching.com/assessments-perception [7]: https://2012books.lardbucket.org/books/a-primer-on-communicationstudies/s02-03-perceiving-and-presenting-self.html [8]:

https://tracom.com/blog/assessments-the-value-of-seeing-yourself-

through-the-eyes-of-others

James H. Morris [9]: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/200505/metaperceptionshow-do-you-see-yourself [10]:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-

development/personality-inventory [11]:

https://hbr.org/2017/12/how-are-you-perceived-at-work-heres-an-

exercise-to-find-out

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

James H. Morris

It’s Your Career - Choose Wisely It is wrong for parents to tell their children what to do with their lives. They should force their children to choose a profession they are passionate about and believe it will bring them more satisfaction to their life. Robert Frost alluded to this in his poem “The Road Not Taken,” as much as one wishes for another career, it is irreversible. When choosing a career, the most important thing is to make sure that you choose a profession that suits you. The choice of the profession should be stress-free and pleasant. Choosing a career requires careful planning, reflecting on what you enjoy, and reflection on who you are as a person and what you offer to the workplace. It is you who will go to work day in, day out, not your parents (and not your girlfriend and not your friends, and certainly not society as a whole). By making your choices based on what will actually work for you and free from external expectations, you will make the best decision for everyone. Start by assessing your abilities, strengths, limits, values, and interests to get a sense of your preferences. Research courses, careers, positions, and companies to see if your chosen profession matches your skills, personality, values, and interests. Once you have a general idea of your career path, take the time to find out what skills you already have and what you need. Choosing a career path can take weeks, months, or even years to 60

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams choose as you learn what you want and what you need in a job. By learning, you have the opportunity to find out whether or not you enjoy your chosen profession and to make the connections that lead to your dream job. It is important to note that you will have the opportunity to change your life path several times, making the opportunity to select a new career a valuable life skill. It is a good idea to take some time for self-reflection before making such an important decision. Remember that a job title is not an actual job. A person in his life can change his career up to three times, and the position or place where you spend a lot of time can have enormous consequences in your life if you want to make a wise decision. These are the questions you should ask yourself before starting your new career. What are you good at? Take a little time, say an hour, think through the things that are important to you, be passionate about, and inspire you. Explore the job market and the career paths that interest you to limit your opportunities. When you explore jobs that seem interesting, you investigate each one to create a short list of serious career opportunities. At the end of this step, you should have identified the type of job that best suits you, but not enough information to decide which one you want to pursue. Consider your ideal work sector and discover its key trends by exploring the local, national and global labor market. This will

James H. Morris help you explore more potential career paths and understand which roles are expanding and decreasing. You can get a lot of information from research and quiz questions. Still, there is no substitute for information about what actually works in your chosen career. Once you have narrowed down specific jobs and careers, you will find a wealth of information in the descriptions of each position, average salaries, and estimates of future growth. When you talk to someone on the ground, you get a true sense of what kind of work you will do and whether it meets your expectations. After determining that you are qualified for this career path, update your CV to reflect your relevant strengths and abilities. You should also consider the size of your employer and the best fit for your personality and work ethic. It’s helpful to search job advertisements online to understand what employers in your industry are looking for in a candidate. Your career affects your identity, personal fulfillment, lifestyle, income, family, and retirement. Here you can learn how to choose and change career paths to find more satisfaction and meaning in your work. The activities you enjoy doing in your spare time can give you insight into a satisfying, fulfilling, and fun career. Deciding about which career to choose can be daunting and overwhelming. There are career consultants that suggest you learn more about the process involved in designing your career ladder. A career plan used by school leavers, students, and 62

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams graduates can be a career starter. A job is a short-term job in which you earn money and gain experience. At the same time, a career is a sublime form of employment. We reconcile personal ambition with talent and bring meaning and value to life for the long term. Signing up for a new company used to mean years, if not decades, of your life. Still, managing your career has become more important and challenging than ever as people shift jobs every few years. The possibilities seem endless, school seems less necessary, and you begin to compare your professional career with others and worry that it is too soon to leave. Suppose you have spent a significant portion of your life working hard to enjoy your job and remain motivated to fulfill your potential. In that case, you must make your career choices carefully. After months of reflection, you may come to the conclusion that you have reached one of three specific career obstacles and that the only solution is to find a new employer. Instead of rethinking your next job, decision, or networking event, focus on how remarkable your work is and face it head-on. Then, tackle your weaknesses, and don’t be afraid to take on tasks that others may find scary. If you think that this is an important career choice, it is not surprising that more research has not been done to help people make better choices. Career coaches worldwide have worked with people who have given up bad jobs and ended up in even worse ones.

James H. Morris With 80,000 hours of your life to dedicate to your career, living a good life is one of the most critical components. The careers people choose are vital to a healthy economy because a better allocation of talent means people can get the jobs they excel in and reap huge profits.

##### Sources ##### [0]: https://www.careergeekblog.com/how-to-wisely-choose-a-career/ [1]: https://medium.com/@kendrickwang/how-to-choose-a-career-whenyou-just-can-t-decide-4aa85268a549 [2]:

https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/career-advice-for-young-

professionals [3]:

https://www.thedailyvox.co.za/heres-how-you-can-choose-your-

career-wisely-shaazia-ebrahim/ [4]:

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/getting-a-job/how-to-

choose-a-career [5]: https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/questions-choosing-career [6]: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-choosea-career [7]:

https://www.whatcareerisrightforme.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-

career-that-suits-you-best/ [8]: https://www.qualifax.ie/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id= 39&Itemid=39

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams [9]:

https://www.inc.com/jt-odonnell/why-these-2-criteria-will-help-you-

choose-your-next-job-more-wisely.html [10]: https://qz.com/440047/the-complete-guide-to-choosing-a-career/ [11]: https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newCDV_73.htm [12]: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/finding-the-rightcareer.htm [13]: https://www.herald.co.zw/choose-your-career-wisely/

James H. Morris

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

Your Resume Shows Your Professional Presence A recent study from OfficeTeam found that more than a third of companies feel CVs are replaced on social networks by profiles. I predict that resumes will be so prevalent in the next ten years that all types and sizes of companies will refer to your online presence as your resume. Follow our step-by-step tips on how to update your resume and create a professional online presence. 1. Choose a format When creating a resume, the first step is to look for a format that reflects your own personal style and is appropriate for your field. Find a style that's creative and interesting but not so flashy that it impedes the message. Colour and infographics can captivate anyone's attention, so be careful how you use them. If you have a LinkedIn profile, you can download it as a PDF. Sometimes this alone is suitable for summarizing. Microsoft Word has a variety of templates available. You can find creative designs and finishes at Enhancv. The former CEO of Yahoo, Marissa Mayer, has even used it. You can create a unique, creative resume with Canva, which is free to use and allows you to stand out from the competition. You should use appropriate fonts and layouts in your writing because this will be a reflection of you.

James H. Morris 2. A lesson in resume brevity The length of your resume should not exceed two pages. Recruiters typically take less than 10 seconds to review your resume. Here are some tips for avoiding cluttered, hard-to-read resumes: •

The layout should be simple, with clear section titles and headers

•

Don't forget to leave some white space in your document

•

Use a professional font like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri that is modern and easy to read

•

Make sure your readers' eyes can quickly move across the page by avoiding multiple columns

3. Online resume and contact information Include a professional email address, phone number, and web address, if you have one, at the top of your resume. You should use a professional email address (Gmail is the most popular). Party-girl291@hotmail.com isn’t likely to get a call back from a recruiter. Update your LinkedIn profile here as well. It is your online resume, so it should be updated. Age, gender, and ethnicity are not required. 4. Begin with an overview of your work history

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Nowadays, identifying as a career changer or having a career break is not uncommon. Consider adding a short line in your ‘career history’ section to explain why you haven't been working. When you apply for a new role or submit a resume, never mention how unhappy you were at your previous work. Use it as a positive learning experience that illustrates the skills you gained. Review the job description of the job you are interested in. Be sure to mention any skills you have gained from previous roles. Most online hiring sites conduct keyword searches when searching through summaries, so you might completely miss out on opportunities if these words are not used. When listing past employment, use bullet points for any other notable roles that you may have held. In addition, it is important to state any promotions, accomplishments,

accomplishments

you've

achieved

previously. This will show your recruiter that you can progress in your career. 5. Brief description of your education It should cover your academic credentials in the following section. Be sure to include all relevant degrees, certificates, and licenses. The highest level of education should be listed first, such as a university degree before a college certificate. 6. Competencies relevant for the job

James H. Morris Describe any additional skills you can bring to the position in this section. It can include having a full clean driver's license, learning social media marketing, understanding coding language, and editing WordPress. A solid online presence can help you stand out from the crowd in this digital age by displaying your computer programming or social media skills. If you are sure that you can perform them, you might also want to include soft skills. Soft skills are more personal qualities than tactical ones and include interpersonal communication, leadership, and teamwork. As the last suggestion, if you have a mentor or coach, ask them for a second opinion before submitting your resume. Their insight into your skills might be more accurate than yours. 7. Interests and hobbies This section should be omitted if your resume lacks enough space to show your skills and work experience. The hobbies and interests section is excellent if your hobbies and interests are related to the job or impressive. Make sure to keep this section to the point and honest. In interviews, you may be asked about it, so be prepared to speak intelligently. 8. Check your spelling Proofreading is absolutely necessary once you have completed writing your resume. The simplest mistakes, such as misspellings and grammar errors, will deter a potential employer before they even interview you. 70

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams There is more to proofreading than simply having your spelling errors fixed by the computer. When you write "form" instead of "from," the error will not be detected. Because of this, it is extremely important that you read your resume carefully, and even have some friends or family members review it as well. 9. Including and Writing Cover Letters A resume is incomplete without a cover letter. Provide a brief introduction about yourself in the cover letter. If you have been out of the job market for some time, mention it briefly, but be sure to keep it short and confident. You can introduce yourself directly in the cover letter, stating why you're qualified for the role and why you're eager to return to work. Additionally, it showcases your personality and serves as your first impression. 10. Managing your social media presence You can learn a lot about someone by looking at their online presence, and 70% of recruiters do this all the time. Ensure that your social media profiles reflect your best self before sending your resume. As part of networking online, you can state that you're eager to find a job. You can easily find out what social media profiles recruiters are most likely to see by searching your own name. Ensure that your profile photos and content are suitable and appealing before returning to work. When in doubt, the picture should look

James H. Morris professional rather than casual. You can do this across all major social

networks,

including

Twitter,

Linkedin,

Facebook,

Instagram, or Pinterest. Brand Yourself is one tool that can 'clean up' your posts if you're concerned about your social media reputation. 11. Keeping Your Content Current Even if you decide to have all of your social media accounts ‘private,’ having an online presence is better than no online presence. Having an active online presence can show that you are engaged in current affairs, interested in your profession, and interested in current events. You also show that you are up-todate with social trends. This is extremely relevant if you plan on entering a field like marketing, communications, or public relations. For your professional life, recruiters expect you to maintain a social media presence. You can use it to display your personality, achievements, and values. If your account is purely for friends and family connections, keep it private. 12. Creating an online profile Getting on social media is a good idea if you do not have an online presence. Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter are three of the most extensive social networks worth joining.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Consider following accounts and individuals within your industry who are of interest to you. If you're in finance, you might follow Forbes, the New York Post, or Bloomberg. For those interested in computers, IBM, Microsoft, and Apple might be worthwhile. As a result, you demonstrate that you appreciate and want to learn more about the content that has been produced. You can find inspiration by looking at others in your field. Be true to yourself while following their style. Re-tweeting and sharing trending industry posts and news can help you stay informed and make valuable networking connections. You should take heed that no one wants to be spammed several times a day, and it is good to have your own voice as well as endorsing others. Commentary should be positive, professional, kind, and empathetic. You should avoid using harmful or hateful language at any time as it could come back to haunt you one day. If you want a handle that appears consistently across all platforms, Namechk is an excellent place to find one for free. Make social media part of your life, and you'll see the value it brings. Your dream job might be waiting there for you! It's easy to create a website. With sites like Wix, you can build your own website free of charge, even if you don't have any programming experience. Your website can also be a valuable tool for hosting your blog or portfolio online.

James H. Morris Technically inclined individuals can even buy and link their own domain names, which is always impressive. Adding it to your resume will help you with the job search.

When the time comes to look for new opportunities, it can be an exciting and discouraging experience, regardless of your education or professional background. Applying for a job is not only about creating the perfect resume and writing a compelling cover letter - it is also about developing a strong personal brand that shows recruiters you are a professional who knows how to manage your online image and use social networks to their advantage. A critical step in job searching is developing and cleaning your online presence: enter your name in Google, check the results and polish your online profile. It is essential to have an online presence to display your skills and experience, whether you are looking for a new job or for career growth. Take complete control of your online presence and build the reputation that you need to get your dream job. You can check your online activities and view your online presence from an employer’s perspective. Employers expect you to tell a consistent story about your experience at work and your career goals. In fact, 93 percent of recruiters check your online presence before deciding whether to interview you. Your social media profiles on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, personal websites, and portfolios - which recruiters find when searching for you - are all part of your online presence. 74

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams The social media area is part of your CV, including links to your social media profiles and online portfolio. This includes your professional social media profile, such as LinkedIn or Xing, and your personal social media personalities, such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. If you use this section, the HR Manager will redirect you to your online portfolio. The social media section is at the end of the contact information section of your CV. The profile’s name should help potential employers identify which social media platform it is on. You can name a separate CV section for your social media profile “Social Media” or go something catchier like “Let’s Get Social,” “My Online Presence,” or “Find Me Online.” With LinkedIn, remember to personalize the URL that leads to the LinkedIn profile page. Make sure you include keywords in job advertisements and in your CV. TopResume suggests copying and pasting the word cloud generator for the job description to identify commonly used terms and make sure they apply to what you use in your resume. Tomer Sade, founder, and CEO of FACTORE, reminds job seekers to list industry-relevant applications and programs they know and include examples of their soft skills, such as work ethic and reliability, in their job descriptions. You can also create a section on core competencies and areas of competence in your CV, listing and repeating your hard and soft skills as you struggle through your experience. If your CV stands out from the rest, you can also

James H. Morris add an optional section describing your hobbies and achievements. This part of your CV plays a significant role in influencing your chances of being considered for an interview. Omitting this critical section of your CV can prevent potential employers from recognizing that you are well suited to the position you are applying for. To ensure that recruiters and HR managers can identify your professional goals, qualifications, and expertise, you need to format your CV to clearly set out these points. Suppose you are interested in changing your career, moving into a field you haven’t worked in for many years, or taking your career to the next level. In that case, your resume needs to be reorganized to support these new goals. A good CV is not only at the top of the page but should also be designed to draw attention to your relevant qualifications. It’s helpful to refer to professional resume templates but not to track them too closely, says Claire Bissot, SPHR managing director at CBiz HR Services. A summary is an opportunity to immediately summarize your most valuable and important skills, experience, and assets. Internal networking can also help you when trying to make a career change, as integrating your CV into your new field of work is one of the most troublesome parts. Tell the truth on your resume and make sure your network reflects that truth. Once you

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams have finished writing the contents of your CV, it is necessary to correct it. If you’ve been unemployed for a while and are thinking about looking for a new job, make sure your CV doesn’t distract you from your current job. Suppose you do not have the relevant professional experience on your CV. In that case, it can be difficult for HR managers and recruiters to see you as well suited to the position you are applying for. Obviously, age discrimination is illegal, but it’s still a good idea to ensure that your CV gives your skills and experience the right impression. In this chapter, we have explained the most essential parts of a CV that you can use to create your own. Remember that you do not have to list all the jobs you have had, only the previous ones that are no longer relevant. If you can’t make this list, consider other ways your resume can make you look a touch better. Including the most important parts of a CV is essential to give potential employers a detailed overview of your qualifications, experience, and training. Recommended parts to include in your CV are your contact information, your CV profile, and a summary of your experience, training, and skills.

##### Sources ##### [0]: https://www.colorado.edu/career/2019/10/07/how-build-your-onlinepresence

James H. Morris [1]: https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/guide/a-guide-to-professionalism-inthe-workplace/ [2]:

https://www.cio.com/article/3131561/6-tips-to-create-your-online-

career-identity.html [3]: https://www.kickresume.com/en/help-center/how-include-your-socialmedia-resume/ [4]:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/parts-

of-a-resume [5]: https://thejobsauce.com/how-to-add-resume-to-linkedin/ [6]:

https://www.job-hunt.org/reputation-management/google-resume-

management.shtml [7]: https://www.thebalancecareers.com/sample-online-profiles-4061813 [8]:

https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/resume-makes-you-

look-out-of-touch [9]: https://upskillcoach.com/blog/12-tips-resume-online-presence/ [10]: https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/3207-resume-writing-tips.html [11]:

https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/beat-the-6-second-

resume-test [12]:

https://www.business.com/articles/how-to-polish-your-online-

presence-before-searching-for-a-job/ [13]: https://www.forbes.com/sites/danschawbel/2011/02/21/5-reasonswhy-your-online-presence-will-replace-your-resume-in-10-years/

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

James H. Morris

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams

Job Interview Advice Although each experience is different, many employers will ask the same questions and use similar interview techniques. We have put together a few tips for the interview, including advice on what to do before and after the interview, what questions to ask, and what to wear. Before participating in an interview, you should see it as a chance to sell yourself and prove that you are the perfect candidate for the job. Make sure you do your homework An excellent tip for job interviews! Make sure you understand the company so you can confidently answer their questions. See if there is any recent news about them on their website and on their social media sites. Perfection comes with practice Practicing your answers to some of the typical job interview questions above will make it easier on the interview day. Therefore, get your mirror out and interview yourself! You should plan your outfit ahead of time Wear something that will make an impression. If you need some tips on making a good impression during an interview, check out an article online on what to wear. Make sure you arrive on time

James H. Morris Ensure you leave plenty of time for traffic/public transportation if you're going to the interview. You should also plan a backup route, so you don't panic on the day if things go awry. Take a deep breath and smile! Take a few deep breaths and stay calm, even if you're freaking out on the inside. Nervousness is entirely normal, but the interviewer is looking for your behavior when dealing with your nerves. Smile, make eye contact, and shake hands firmly. Best of luck!

In an interview, what are interviewers looking for? The employer is looking for further evidence that you possess the skills and knowledge necessary for the job. You will need to elaborate on your CV by providing real-life examples of how you applied these skills and knowledge. They are also looking at things like: •

Are you equipped with the key skills required for the job?

•

Body Language - The way you express yourself is more telling than you might imagine. You should seat yourself straight up (don't slouch! ), smile, and make eye contact.

•

How would you describe yourself? Friendliness and approachability are your qualities?

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams •

Are you a good fit for the team? Are your values in line with those of the company?

•

Is this a job you really want?

•

Does this organization hold a genuine interest for you?

•

Have you taken the time to learn more about the company?

•

What skills and knowledge can you provide to solve their problems?

•

Are you able to offer new skills and ideas?

•

What is your flexibility/adaptability like?

•

Are you a self-starter, or do you require constant supervision?

•

What about respecting management?

Typical questions interviews

asked

during

job

An interview is being conducted for the job. Be prepared for job interviews by researching typical interview questions that could be asked. You will be ready for whatever questions they throw at you. The interview process is different for every employer, but many use similar techniques and ask similar interview questions. The following are the most common interview questions:

•

Tell me a bit about yourself?

•

Why do you want to work for us?

•

What are your strengths?

James H. Morris •

What are your weaknesses?

•

What is your greatest achievement?

•

Tell me about a challenge you’ve faced and how you dealt with it.

•

What motivates you?

•

How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

•

Give an example of when you’ve worked in a team to achieve something.

•

Why did you leave your last job?

•

Where do you see yourself in five years?

•

Do you have any questions for us?

Preparing for these questions in advance will help you not to panic on test day. Your answer must sound natural, so avoid memorizing a prepared speech, but knowing how you'll respond will make you more confident. Despite the importance of preparing for a job interview, it is vital to strike a balance between knowing your content and sounding natural.

Interview questions that are unusual Many people have said that they have been asked some strange interview questions over the years, such as:

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams •

If you were an animal, what would you be?

•

How many tennis balls can you fit inside a limousine?

•

How many petrol stations are there inside the M25?

•

Who would win a fight between Spiderman and Batman?

•

How would you get an elephant into a fridge?

If you get an odd interview question, do not worry too much. Interviewers are only interested in the way you respond to different responses, not the exact answer. Answer the question slowly and don't panic. Think of a skill you have (like problem-solving) that could help you answer this question. By incorporating this knowledge into your life, you will be able to thrive in all areas. Remember that there are no right answers to these questions. Preparation is everything when it comes to job interviews. You should ask these questions during an interview. Having prepared questions beforehand will show that you are interested. Be prepared to be asked if you have any questions yourself at the end of the interview. When you ask questions about a job, it's obvious that you're interested in it. Learn more about the role and the company culture, which will help you decide if this is the right position for you.

James H. Morris If you don't know what to ask, these popular questions may inspire you. •

What is the purpose of the opening?

•

What is the role's role within the overall team structure?

•

What qualities do you look for in a candidate?

•

How is the work environment?

•

Is there an opportunity for training/development?

•

How are performance measurements and evaluations conducted?

•

When can I expect a response from you?

If someone asks you what your expectations are, it is not a good time to discuss money. You should wait to discuss salary until you have been offered the job. It is a good idea to practice your answers to these questions in advance, but don’t panic on the day of the event. Interviews are like any other conversation. They are like a dance in which you move with your partner and react to each other. The interviewers will ask you questions, whether you have one or two. Interview questions about race, age, gender, religion, marriage or sexual orientation are inappropriate in many areas and even illegal. For the most part, the interviewer does not want to offend, and he has no interest in genuine small talk. But now and then, you get a question that is insensitive such as origin or age. Prepare to go into the interview with three to five key selling points, such as what makes you the best candidate for the job. 86

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams One selling point to be prepared for, for example, is excellent communication skills. Explore how companies deal with specific essential interview questions to make sure you make a good impression and go into your next job interview with the following 20 tips. 1. Do your homework on the industry and company. During an interview, you could be asked how you perceive the company's position in its industry, its competitors, its competitive advantages, and how the company should move forward. As a result, do not try to thoroughly research a dozen different industries at once. Instead, narrow your job search to just a few industries. 2. Clearly state what makes you stand out and the reasons you want the job. When preparing for an interview, prepare three to five key selling points, including why you're the right candidate for the position. Identify and prepare examples of each selling point (for example, "I have excellent communication skills. I have persuaded a group of people..."). During an interview, be prepared to talk about what attracted you to the job - what you find valuable about the job, what rewards it offers, and what skills the job requires. Even if you are a top candidate, if an interviewer doesn't think you're serious about the job, they won't offer you the job! 3. Expect the interviewer's reservations and concerns.

James H. Morris The number of applicants for positions is always greater than the number of openings. Interviewers look for ways to eliminate candidates. Try to imagine yourself in their shoes and consider why they might not be interested in hiring you (I don't have this, I am not that). You should then prepare your defense: "I understand you may find me unsuitable for the position due to [their reservation]. “You should understand this [reason the interviewer should not be too concerned].” 4. Be prepared for common interview questions. In every “how to interview” book, there is a long list of “common interview questions.” (You might wonder how long interviews are with all those questions!) So how do you prepare? Based on your age and position (about to graduate, looking for a summer internship), pick any question from any list. Preparing your answers beforehand will save you time during the interview. 5. Prepare your interview questions. Prepare intelligent questions that demonstrate your knowledge of the company and your seriousness for the interview. Any interviewer will ask if you have any questions, so prepare a few questions. Saying "No, not at all" could be interpreted as a sign that you're not too keen on the job or company. If you were to design the perfect candidate for this position from scratch, what would they be like?” When doing a series of interviews with the same company, you can use some of your prepared questions (for example, "What is

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams the best thing about working here?" and "Who do you most want to hire for this position?") Then, think of one or two more during each interview. 6. Put this into practice. Coming prepared with a mental response to a question like, "Why should we hire you?" is one thing.” It’s another challenge entirely to say it out loud in a confident and convincing way. When you try it for the first time, you'll sound garbled and confused, no matter how detailed your own thoughts are! If you repeat it another 10 times, you'll sound much smoother and more articulate. Don't practice when you're "on stage" with a recruiter; practice before the interview. What is the best way to practice? Play "round-robin" interviews with two friends: the observer and the other will be the interviewee. After each round, switch roles and do it again. Another option (but definitely second-best) is to tape your answer and then listen to it again to see where you need to improve. Whatever you do, make sure you speak aloud. A mental rehearsal of your answer is not enough. 7. Achieve success within the first five minutes. Study results suggest interviewers decide about candidates within the first five minutes, then look for things that confirm their decision throughout the interview. How can you get through the gate in just five minutes? You should approach the interview with energy and enthusiasm and thank the interviewer

James H. Morris for their time. (Remember that she may be seeing many other candidates on that day and may be tired from her flight. So you should bring positive energy!) As well, start off with something positive about the company something like, "I've been looking forward to this meeting [not "interview"]. It's great to be able to contribute to [a particular field or project] through [the company]." 8. Establish a bond with the interviewer. Many interviewers see job interviews as adversarial: candidates will seek to get an offer from the interviewer, and the interviewer must hold onto it. As you play tug of war with each other, you must transform your opposing views into one conducive to cooperation. Simply say, "I'm looking forward to learning more about your company as well as letting you get to know me so that we can determine whether we're a good match or not. Getting hired for the wrong job is the worst thing that can happen in life - then nobody's happy!” 9. Take responsibility for the interview and be assertive. During job interviews, some usually assertive candidates may become overly passive in an effort to be polite. However, politeness does not imply passivity. You and your interview partner are moving together as part of a dance, both responding to each other during the interview. The interviewer isn't going to ask you about your Nobel Prize if you just sit there. Making sure he knows your main selling points is your responsibility.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams 10. Prepare yourself to deal with illegal and inappropriate questions. In many areas, it is illegal to ask about your race, age, gender, religion, marital status, and sexual orientation during an interview. Even so, there is a chance of getting one or more of them. If so, you have a few choices. You can simply answer with a question (”I’m not sure how that’s relevant to my application”), or you can try to answer “the question behind the question”: “I don’t know whether I’ll decide to have children in the near future, but if you’re wondering if I’ll be leaving my job for an extended period of time, I can say that I’m very committed to my career and frankly can’t imagine giving it up.” 11. Clearly state your selling points. Would a tree falling in the forest make any sound if no one is around to hear it? Do you score well if you convey your selling points during a job interview, but the interviewer does not get it? The answer to this question is clear: No! Therefore, make sure your selling points aren't obscured by long-winded stories. Instead, tell the interviewer what you want to sell first, then provide an example. 12. Keep a positive attitude. Do not dwell on negative experiences during an interview. No one likes a complainer. It doesn't matter if the interviewer asks you directly, "What courses have you enjoyed least?"?" or "What was the least enjoyable aspect of your previous employment?"

James H. Morris Don't answer. Don't answer it the way it was posed. Instead, say something like, "Actually, I've liked something about all of my classes.". Even though I found [class] to be very challenging, I liked the fact that [positive point about the course]" or "I liked [a previous job] quite a bit, although now I think I want [new job]." 13. Let's end on a positive note. When a salesperson came to you, demonstrated his product, thanked you for your time, and walked out the door, what did he do wrong? You weren't asked to buy it! If you think you'd be good at that job at the end of an interview, ask for it! Be sure to tell your interviewer that you're excited about the job and even more so now and that you're convinced you'd like to work there. The interviewer may be more inclined to make you an offer if there are two equally good candidates at the end of the search - you and someone else. Even better, take what you’ve learned about yourself from your MyPath career assessment and use it to explain why you think this is the job for you: “I’ve done some careful career selfassessment, and I know that I’m most interested in [one or two of your most important career interest themes], and – correct me if I’m wrong – it seems that this position would allow me to express those interests. In addition, I am motivated by [two or three of your most important motivators from your MyPath assessment], and I have the feeling that if I do well, I could see those rewards in this role.

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Finally, I know that my strongest abilities are [two or three of your strongest abilities from your MyPath assessment], and I see those as being the abilities you most need for this position.” If you follow this tip, you’ll be (a) asking for the job, (b) explaining why you think it’s a good match, (c) displaying your thoughtfulness and maturity, and (d) further disarming the tug-of-war dynamic that interviewers anticipate. You will make the strongest possible "close" - and that is worth a lot! 14. You should bring a copy of your resume to every interview. You should bring a copy of your resume to every interview. The interviewer will save a lot of time (and embarrassment on their part) if you can just hand over your extra copy if they have misplaced their copy. 15. Don't worry about sounding like a canned response. When people rehearse their answers, they are worried that their responses will sound "canned" (or overly polished or glib) during the interview. There's nothing to worry about. If you've prepared well, you will sound articulate and not canned. Even if you are not well prepared, the anxiety involved in the situation will remove any canned quality. 16. Take advantage of the "Tell me about yourself" question. This question is often asked at the beginning of interviews. What should you do then? Describe where you were born, what your parents do, how many brothers and sisters you have, and how many pets you have, and that's okay. However, would you rather 93

James H. Morris your interviewer note the type of dog you own or why the company should hire you? Consider answering this question with something such as: "Well, obviously, there are lots of things I can tell you, but if any things are missing, just let me know.". But [my selling points] are the three most important things you should know about me. Please let me elaborate a little on those topics if you like. Interviewers will always respond, "Sure, go for it." You then answer, "Well, regarding the first point, [give your example]. During my time at [company], I [example of another selling point]. Using this approach, you can spend over a half-hour on each of your key selling points. It is an excellent opportunity to tell them about yourself. Don’t miss it! 17. Make sure your body language is appropriate. Wear appropriate clothing, give a firm handshake, have good posture, speak clearly, and avoid perfume or cologne! In some interview locations, air circulation may be lacking due to small rooms. The interviewer must pay attention to your job qualifications -- not pass out because you are wearing Chanel No. 5. Before you are dressed in Brut, the candidate and the two combine to create a toxic gas, and you don't get the job! 18. You may be asked to participate in behavior-based interviews. Nowadays, one of the most common interview styles is to ask candidates to describe experiences they have had that have demonstrated behaviors that the company believes are

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams important for a particular position. If you're asked to provide an example, perhaps you'll be asked about a time you made an unpopular decision, demonstrated a high degree of persistence, or had little information and were forced to make a decision. In the first step, anticipate the behaviors this hiring manager is likely to be looking for. The second step is to identify at least one time when you demonstrated each behavior. For each example, prepare a story. Several people recommend using SAR (SituationAction-Result) as a model for the story. The fourth step is to practice telling the story. Also, review your resume before the interview with this kind of format in mind; this will help you remember examples of behaviors you may not have anticipated. 19. Thank you notes are appreciated. After every interview, write a thank-you note. The notes can either be typed on paper or emailed, as the interviewers prefer. Refer specifically to what you and the interviewer discussed in your notes. "I was particularly interested [or glad to hear] what you said about..." Handwritten notes might be best if you're thanking a personal connection for helping with your job search or if the company you're interviewing at is based in Europe. You should send your notes within 48 hours following the interview, no matter what method you choose. After each interview, it's essential to jot down a few things about what the interviewer said. Make a note of what you could have done better in the interview, and make adjustments before your next interview. 95

James H. Morris 20. Never give up! Don't give up if you have a bad interview for a job you genuinely think would be a great fit for you (not just something you want badly). Inform the interviewer that you did a poor job explaining why you think this job would be a good fit with a note, email, or a phone call. Let the company know what you can offer, and express your desire to contribute. Whether this strategy will work depends on the company and on you. One thing is for sure: If you don't try, you have no chance. As we've seen this approach work on numerous occasions, we encourage you to give it one more shot. A job interview is as much about preparation as it is about your attitude and confidence in the interview chair. If your research is thorough, you will be in a great position to conduct your job interview and get the job you have always dreamed of. As early as possible, spend time studying about the company as much as possible before your interview, how to apply it to its culture, and what interview questions are likely to be asked. [Sources: 0] Many career consultants and recruiters consider your job interviews to be crucial for success. Before you enter an HR office, be prepared for how the interview goes, what you want to wear, and how to give a firm handshake. Employers will judge based on your interview responses how successful you will be in the workplace. By this time, you have completed over 80% of all applications, so you should have suitable answers to the most common interview questions. The 96

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams longer the interview, the more you are an informed candidate, and you will move through the interview process faster. The more good companies want you to find ways to eliminate the obstacles and bottlenecks that might lead to your rejection of an offer. Saying thank you in a personal way can leave an enormous impression on busy interviewers. Showing appreciation in advance to an employer goes a long way. It is one of my favorite tips in the interview, even if it requires some talent and effort. It is in your best interests to ensure that your interviewer remembers you paid attention to him and thanked him for the opportunity during your interview. After the interview, you will not hear from your employer for many days. They may need to meet with more candidates or need time to finalize their decision. This wait can be a challenge, especially if you are interviewing for a job for which you would like to be hired. The more time you prepare in advance, the more comfortable you will feel during the actual interview. Stay calm and prepare in time, which will put you ahead of the other candidates in your first interview. Check the location of the interview and arrive 30 minutes early. One of my favorite tips is to arrive 30-45 minutes early and position yourself in a nearby café. In this way, you eliminate any circumstances that might prevent you from turning up on time, and you can quickly pack your notes while drinking tea. Enter the 97

James H. Morris notes on paper or send them by e-mail, depending on the preference of the interviewer. Make sure you ask the interviewer to ask the question again if further clarification is needed. Strengthen your interest in the position and thank the interviewers for the opportunity to interview you. Make sure you smile, make eye contact, and have a firm handshake, but don’t go overboard. If you interview in a more relaxed company, good manners will never go out of fashion. As a teenager, you tend to be casual in job interviews, which can work against you. If you’re not prepared in advance, you can keep wandering, answering interview questions, and agonizing your way out of the job. If the thought of a job interview panics you, reviewing tips to avoid job stress and keep your nerves calm is a great start. To prepare for a job interview, read job advertisements that match your skills, job requirements, and related information. Here are some of the most common mistakes in the job interview—errors and mistakes that applicants make searching for a job. Take the time to check them before the job interview so that you are not stressed and stumble through them. Inappropriate Dress It is imperative to look professional and polished when you interview for a job. Regardless of the position you're applying for, you should always look well-dressed and ready for the interview. For example, you should wear business casual attire to an 98

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams interview for a non-professional job or startup casual garb to an interview at a small startup company - you should always look well-dressed and ready for the interview. Late Arrival In the job-hunting process, everyone knows that first impressions count. However, did you know you can have a wrong impression before you even sit down for your interview? The fact that you are running late shows a lack of time management skills. It shows disrespect for the company, the position, and even your interviewer. Don't be late, and arrive early or on time if need be. Allow yourself five to ten minutes extra to get to the interview on time. In that way, if something unforeseen happens on your way to the interview, you can have a little breathing room. You're Bringing a Drink? Before you enter your interview, put down the coffee, soda, or water bottle. If you must fuel up before the interview, do so before you arrive. It is unprofessional to enter an interview with a drink in hand. During the interview, you should be focused on making a good impression, answering questions, keeping eye contact with your potential employer, and paying attention throughout the entire interview process.

James H. Morris When drinking, we're prone to get distracted -- fiddling with the cup or denying the question we were trying to ask while sipping. Furthermore, despite the relatively low likelihood, you run the risk of spilling the drink on the desk, on yourself, or even your interviewer! Phone Use During Interviews Turn your phone off before you go to your interview. During an interview, you should avoid texting and let your potential employer know that you don't care about getting the job. During the interview, do not answer (and do not make) calls. Before the interview, tuck your phone into your bag to avoid checking it. Whenever you receive a message or a call, resist the temptation to check it if you forgot it was turned off. Having no idea what the company does If your future employer asks, "What information do you have about this company?" don't get stumped.” It’s one of the most straightforward questions to ace if you do some research before your interview. An "About Us" section provides information such as company history, locations, divisions, and a mission statement on most company websites. To refresh your memory, you might want to review it ahead of time and then print it out. If the company has one, check out its LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages. The fuzzy side of resumes

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams When you apply for a job, you may be asked to fill out a job application even if you have submitted a resume. You will need to know the information necessary to complete an application, including dates of prior employment, graduation dates, and employer contact information. Before your interview, review the facts. Understandably, some of your older experiences may be difficult to recall. Ensure your resume is accurate by recreating your employment history if necessary. Keeping a copy of your resume on hand during an interview can be helpful, but do not rely on it for support during the interview. You should never "fudge" any facts on your resume. You will be able to discuss your past experience better during your interview if you are truthful on your resume. Being inattentive During an interview, don't let yourself get distracted. Make sure you are well-rested, alert, and prepared. You look bad if you get distracted and miss a question. The interviewer will wonder how you can stay focused on a full-time job if you can't even stay focused during one interview. Engage yourself if you feel your attention slipping away. Focus on eye contact with your interviewer, lean slightly forward when speaking to them, and listen actively to what they say to you.

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James H. Morris Even though you may be able to pay attention during a one-onone interview in a private office, it's more challenging to pay attention in a public setting. Excessive talking The worst thing that could happen during an interview is a long, drawn-out explanation. You don't have to tell the interviewer all about yourself. You should keep your answers concise, to the point, and focused. Don't ramble-just answer the question. You should not delve into your personal life or discuss the details of your family life or your children. A job interview is an entirely professional situation, regardless of how warm, friendly, or genial your interviewer may be. By avoiding this mistake, you will impress your potential employer through nonverbal communication. Unpreparedness to answer questions Your interviewer will likely ask you more than just where and when you worked. Your interviewer will utilize the allotted time to get a sense of your ability for a job and discover all that is needed to know about you. Make sure you're prepared. Review the questions you may face during your interview and how to respond. If your interviewer asks if you have questions for them, prepare a list of questions to ask them. Review the questions you should

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams not ask during a job interview and the worst interview answers that you should avoid. Badmouthing former employers Don't badmouth your boss or coworkers. You don't know who your interviewer knows, even your idiot boss. Sometimes the world is smaller than you think. You also don’t want the interviewer to believe that you might speak that way about their company if you leave on terms that aren’t the best. When interviewing for a job, you want your employer to know that you can work well with other people and handle conflicts maturely and effectively, rather than badmouthing your coworkers or talking about other people’s incompetence.

##### Sources ##### [0]:

https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/guide/the-ultimate-job-interview-

preparation-guide/ [1]: https://www.snagajob.com/blog/post/job-interview-tips-for-teens [2]: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonyoushaei/2014/10/20/12-surprisingjob-interview-tips/ [3]:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/job-interview-

tips-how-to-make-a-great-impression [4]: https://www.dol.gov/general/jobs/interview-tips [5]: https://myfuture.com/career/job-interview-tips

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https://successatschool.org/advicedetails/531/Job-interview-tips:-

Your-complete-guide-to-succeeding-in-interviews [7]: https://hbr.org/2021/03/4-tips-to-nail-a-virtual-job-interview [8]: https://zety.com/blog/interview-tips [9]: http://corporate.publix.com/careers/applicant-resources/interview-tips [10]:

https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/2021/06/job-interview-

tips [11]:

https://careersidekick.com/interviewing-tips-how-to-pass-a-job-

interview/ [12]:

https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/boost-your-

interview-iq [13]:

https://www.experis.com/en/insights/articles/2021/05/25/20-tips-

for-great-job-interviews [14]: https://www.thebalancecareers.com/top-interview-tips-2058577

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Negotiating Your Salary They may have certain iron restrictions, such as a salary cap, but the scope of negotiations can be relaxed. For example, talk to a large company that employs 20 similar people at the same time. You may not get a higher salary. On the other hand, you may be negotiating with a small company that has never employed anyone in your role, so there is scope to adjust the initial salary and working title, but not other things. By linking your strengths to your role, you can make a solid case for why you should get more than the original offer. According to recent research, failing to negotiate your salary before accepting a job offer could cost you up to $600,000 in salary during a typical career. This is an excellent time to set your desired salary at the beginning of the job. Your dream salary is the one that makes you feel you’re getting an increase when you’re just starting out. The employment agent with whom you are negotiating pay will not tell you how much you are getting from the competition. Ask the employer to work with you to broaden the scope of work and responsibilities to suit you better and is more valuable to the company. Pay negotiations show the company that you have confidence in your skills and that you have done your homework, so you won’t be flitting between lower-paid positions when they become available, even if you like them. Negotiations for a higher salary 106

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams take place after the interview, before you sign an employment contract, and not during a performance review of the current job. When negotiating with a potential employer, you must find out how much your skills and experience are worth in today’s job market. One of the best ways to calm down and approach salary negotiations with a level-headed mind is to do your homework on the company and its role. Our step-by-step guide below will help you allay initial fears and put you in the right mood not only to ask what you are worth but also to emerge from the negotiations with a better offer. Step 1: Do Your Homework About the Company and Your Role It is crucial to fully understand the company and your role before engaging in a salary negotiation to remain calm and level-headed. Don't worry about manipulation tactics and strategies. Lisa Gates, a top-10 LinkedIn voice at work and a leadership and negotiation coach for businesswomen, said, "If we go into a negotiation worrying about [that]... then we miss out on the most important thing about negotiation." “It’s a conversation. A human conversation.” Suppose you want to know more about salary information. Gates suggests that a good place to start is by researching what others in your position earn. In that case, you can ask your colleagues (It's not illegal, according to her) or look at websites such as Dice, Robert Half and Payscale.

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James H. Morris You can use these tools to determine the median income for your position, what your local economy pays and what your potential employer pays other employees with the same job title. Consider your location and the company's location. When you work as a copywriter in Nebraska, you might earn much less than a copywriter in New York. Then, the salary you made in Nebraska is irrelevant. But if you are moving to New York for the job, be sure to use that salary range as a negotiation tool. This range is also helpful for determining a fair wage for workfrom-home jobs. As an example, a Nebraska-based writer applying for a remote job in New York can negotiate a salary in line with wages in New York, or you can at least arrange a salary that's in line with national rates. “Your salary should not be calibrated by your ZIP code,” Gates said. “It’s about the benefit you deliver to the company.” Step 2: Know the value of your work Once you've done your research and established an appropriate salary range, you'll need to plot your salary somewhere along that line. “If you are a median performer… shoot for the median,” said Gates. “But chances are you’re amazing at what you do, and you want to shoot for a salary between median and high.” Asking for above-average salaries should be based more on showing than telling. If you believe you deserve the top end of

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams that range, then you'll need something more substantial than "I think I'm worth $70,000." As the obvious follow-up question to that statement is "Why?".” To answer this question confidently and convincingly, Gates instructed, you must quantify all your achievements and contributions. “For example, if you are a customer service manager and you revamped your new-hire onboarding, what impact did that effort have on the bottom line?” When it comes to negotiation, research and numbers will be much stronger than emotion. There is no problem mentioning child care costs, relocation costs, or rent if you need the extra $5,000. Don't let that be your entire argument. Show them why you're worth the extra five grand. Step 3: Address the offer politely We are at a stage where we are ripe for mistakes. (Congratulations!) You just got an offer of employment, and your emotions are running high, whether for good or for bad. The company might have given you exactly what you wanted, and you're thrilled. Alternatively, it could have underestimated your earnings by about $10,000. Either way, responding on impulse is easy. Do a self-check first. Do not make your decision immediately, even if it's a great offer. Additionally, it may not be the best time to negotiate, especially if you're offended by the lowball. 109

James H. Morris “Responding graciously is the most important action to take when you first receive an offer,” said Loren Margolis, CEO and founder of Training & Leadership Success. “I recommend you state that you are grateful and excited, and then take a pause.” To give the employer time to think over the job offer, you can ask for anywhere from 24 hours to a week. It is common for employers to fill jobs within 24 to 48 hours, but they may be in a bind if they need to fill the job quickly. Negotiation on the spot runs the risk of being influenced by emotion, and you want to be logical and clear-headed when talking money. Also, you can ask the hiring manager for a deadline. By doing so, you will not be caught in a guessing game, and you will have enough time to review your salary research and prepare. Step 4: Prepare Your Counteroffer You have done quite a bit of research on salaries up to this point. Your next step should be to pore over the details of your offer and figure out what is known as a reservation point, a target salary, and an anchor salary. When negotiating salary, it's important to stick within a realistic range that's based on your research. Consider the application you submitted. Was there a question about salary requirements?" If so, what was your response?

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams If you answered "$60,000 to $70,000," you must work within that range. As an example, suppose your initial job offer includes: a $60,000 starting salary, health insurance, a 401(k) plan, and three weeks of paid vacation. This offer might sound pretty good to you if you are a young professional, and it is technically within your reach. You should still negotiate. “Always negotiate, if for no other reason than to demonstrate that you are capable of having a problem-solving conversation,” Gates advised. “That’s what a negotiation is.” A company may not negotiate salary if it has a "firm" offer or a "non-negotiable" salary policy. In that case, you might not want to take a chance. However, those cases are rare, so get started planning your counteroffer unless you're explicitly told otherwise. Do the math first. Consider setting a reservation point above the amount they initially offered, such as $62,500. You will accept this amount as your minimum salary. The amount you anticipate agreeing to after negotiations will be higher than your reservation - somewhere around $65,000. Anchor salaries are much higher. This is the number you use to begin the conversation and could be as high as $75,000.

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James H. Morris Even after negotiating, it's possible that the company won't meet your target salary. You shouldn't fret - and don't just look at the salary. Examine the entire compensation package, including paid time off and continuing education, as well as the cost of living and commute. You should also be prepared to negotiate elements of your benefits package. Is there wiggle room for vacation time? How about a work-from-home policy? What about learning stipends? Forgiveness of loans? Or, as Margolis put it, “Determine what perks would add some sparkle to your life.” In a counteroffer, it's imperative to remain flexible and openminded. Step 5: Practice Negotiation Conversations It's been a long road for you. However, now you have all these numbers and nuggets of advice floating around in your head. Under pressure and probably sweating profusely, can you recall them at a moment's notice? I don't think so. Conversations can take place in person or over the phone. However, it must be a conversation. Don't negotiate over email; instead, call the hiring manager, video chat with him, or meet in person so you can understand his tone and response.

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Moreover, if you happen to be having the conversation in person, you'll need to consider much more than just your tone. Robert Half research indicates that hiring managers pay close attention to several nonverbal cues, the most important of which are: •

Eye contact

•

Posture

•

Handshake

•

Hand gestures

•

Facial expressions

•

Fidgeting and nervous movements

Feedback is therefore crucial. There are most likely no cues you will be able to address without help. “Practice negotiating with someone you trust. And ask them to make it difficult for you,” Margolis said. “Have them counter your assertions and challenge you so you can practice professionally pushing back.” In addition, Margolis recommended outlining the perks that are most important to you during the negotiation. Make a list of three things that separate you from other applicants - these could be skills, experience, or ways you will add value to the company. When you write out your argument, it becomes more cohesive. Similarly, Gates suggested composing a solid introduction that states what you want. The formula she created for guiding the conversation includes these components: 113

James H. Morris 1. Your strengths. 2. Quantified results of those strengths. 3. How you plan to produce those results in the future. 4. An anchor number to start off negotiations. 5. Then, conclude your opening statement with a question

that

sparks

discussion.

She

recommended something along the lines of, ”How can you help me make this so?” Using this formula, your opening statement could look like this: “I’m a creative and witty copywriter who has produced several award-winning advertisements for past clients, which raised their ad revenue by 20% in one quarter. With the new resources and larger team in my new role here, I will deliver even better results. These achievements warrant a salary of $50,000. How can we come together on this?” Obviously, your statement will look different. You can change the language as much as you like. Include your anchor salary and an open-ended question that invites the employer to speak. When you practice with a friend, you may want to adjust the question, especially if you didn't expect the response. Avoid yesor-no questions because you want to start a discussion. Get as much practice as you can, and receive feedback along the way. Thank your practice partner profusely when you’re finished—Drinks are on you.

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Step 6: Negotiate for a higher salary After all those preparations, it's not so frightening anymore, is it? Take a deep breath, give yourself a pep talk, and go get a higher salary. If you're having salary talks in person, be aware of your body language. If you're offered a beverage, take it. If you are stumped, sipping something can help smooth those awkward pauses and buy you some time to think about your response. If you're talking over the phone, disregard all that advice about body language. We don't need to worry about that. Also, your notes will be right there in front of you. On the phone, your tone is what matters most. Taking your time and speaking clearly will reap greater rewards. Step 7: Have It in Writing You don't want your efforts to go to waste. When you've nailed your salary negotiation and have reached your target salary (or higher), be sure to ask for it in writing. The hiring process can sometimes take a long time and involve a lot of people at the company. Things get lost in translation or forgotten. The negotiation may have been handled by a different person in the HR department. That person may have only had your initial salary offer and not the renegotiated amount on file.

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James H. Morris It could also be something more sinister. Hopefully, that won't happen. “Ask for them to at least send it in an email to ensure that you and the hiring company are both on the same page,” Margolis said. When you sign the contract, make sure it reflects what was sent in the email. All that's left is to bask in the success of the most successful conversation you've ever had.

Salary negotiations involve discussing a job offer with a potential employer and agreeing on a pay and benefits package consistent with what is available on the market and meets or exceeds your needs. If you are a hesitant negotiator, it helps to remember that you are on the same page. In this way, you are prepared to make your arguments and present a realistic and reasonable job offer. It can calm nerves knowing that employers expect candidates to negotiate during salary negotiations. A survey found that 70% of managers expect candidates to negotiate their salary and performance. The idea of a conversation can feel stressful, but knowing that negotiations will take place and doing so can set your lifelong earning potential on the right track. More than half of US workers did not bargain over pay in their last job. And 52% of men surveyed said they would have accepted

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams the salary they were offered if negotiations had not taken place. But studies show that those who demand higher pay can succeed if they adopt the right pay negotiation strategy. When an employer extends a job offer, they can provide you with a pay and benefits package and write down a proposed salary. They can present forms of remuneration such as stock options or additional perks such as extra days off. Suppose you do not feel that the proposed salary matches your education, career level, skills, or experience. In that case, you can negotiate for more money. Knowing how to negotiate a salary is a valuable skill that can help ensure that you are remunerated fairly for your work. By avoiding sharing your salary history and expectations, you can give yourself the most excellent possible chance to negotiate for the highest potential salary. You can do two things to ensure a successful salary negotiation, whether or not you expect to negotiate a job offer. First, you need to be prepared for your job offer. Second, make sure you are prepared to negotiate for the best possible salary. You need time to determine your best negotiating strategy based on your offer, your acceptable minimum wage, and other factors. Pay negotiations should begin with the first conversation with the company you are considering. Interviews and negotiations now start, whether you are interviewing for a new position, negotiating a job offer, leaving your old job to take up your new one, asking for a raise, or looking for a new opportunity. 117

James H. Morris In salary negotiations, it is vital to stay within a realistic framework based on your research. If you are applying for a new job, do your best not to reduce the remuneration offered by your employer. It is also essential to get an overview before the negotiations, especially when comparing job offers. Most HR managers will allow you to make a few thoughts before making an offer, but don’t expect an immediate response. Here are eight tips for negotiating a salary that will help you ask for what you want. Suppose you respond positively to a job offer. In that case, you may find that you are applying for one of the hottest jobs currently available. 1. DO Learn about the industry's salary trends You should enter a salary negotiation as informed as possible. Your strongest ally is information. Consult Robert Half's 2021 Salary Guides to get a current, realistic understanding of the compensation landscape in your field. You can find the going rate for your position and experience level. To adjust national figures for your area, use our Salary Calculator. The In-Demand Positions and Critical Roles sections of the Salary Guides are particularly important. You can respond confidently to the job offer if you find you're in the running for one of today's hottest jobs. There may be difficulty finding someone with the right skills and experience, and that allows the employer to negotiate a higher salary. 2. DON'T forget to build your case

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Don't just counter with a higher number when you receive the salary offer. You will be more successful if you explain why you believe you are entitled to more, even if your research supports it. Highlight all the benefits that a person with your track record could bring the firm. Write down examples of how your skills and experience will contribute to the bottom line of your new company before you negotiate. Having certifications or specialized technical skills, for example, can enhance your ability to perform the job, so don't forget to mention them. When you tie your strengths to the role you'll take on, you'll be able to make a strong case for why you should be paid more than the initial offer. 3. DON'T bend the truth Negotiating a salary requires complete honesty. Having a hiring manager discover you inflated your salary from past jobs or invented a competing job offer is the fastest way to have your offer withdrawn. 4. DO Consider perks and benefits Employee perks and benefits are often negotiated as part of salary negotiations. The employer may find that extra vacation days, flexible hours, or even a work-from-home schedule is less expensive than a raise. Consider what you value and what would make an offer more attractive. When comparing multiple offers, make sure you compare health insurance coverage, retirement savings plans, 119

James H. Morris and other benefits to make an informed decision. Be sure to consider perks such as professional development opportunities with the potential employer. 5. DON'T just wing it Some people might consider this overkill, but it's a good idea to ask a friend or mentor to help you practice the conversation you're likely to have with the hiring manager. It is ideal to have a partner from the corporate world - someone who is businesssavvy and can assist you in projecting confidence and answering unexpected questions. If you practice your delivery several times, you will feel more confident heading into the salary discussion. 6. DO Know when it's time to wrap up Negotiating won't make a reasonable employer withdraw an offer. You may start off your relationship with the hiring manager on a sour note if you drag out the salary negotiation. After a few conversations, if the company is unable to meet your requirements, respectfully withdraw and focus on other opportunities that better align with your compensation expectations. 7. DON'T Forget to make sure everything is in writing After you and the hiring manager agree on a compensation package, ask for written documentation. In addition to the salary amount, it should include any special arrangements, such as a signing bonus or allowance for moving expenses, as well as a job description and a list of responsibilities for the new role. Both you 120

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams and your employer must sign the document. Employers may include this as part of an employment contract, but if not, request some type of informal documentation. 8. DON'T make it all about you Remember that most managers dislike negotiating, too. Your future employer is not your enemy. By keeping your tone positive when you're negotiating salary and perks, you will be able to maneuver these discussions more effectively. You need to ask for a higher starting salary offer if you want one. It's too common for job seekers to accept the first offer they receive. Despite economic uncertainty, employers are eager to hire team members with specialized skills and expertise that can assist them. Your success depends on hard work, tact, and confidence.

##### Sources ##### [0]:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/markcperna/2021/04/13/6-tips-to-

negotiate-your-salary-with-confidence-and-get-what-youre-worth/ [1]: https://zety.com/blog/how-to-negotiate-a-salary [2]: https://fearlesssalarynegotiation.com/salary-negotiation-guide/ [3]: https://hbr.org/2014/04/15-rules-for-negotiating-a-job-offer [4]:

https://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/salary-negotiations/negotiate-

salary-3-winning-strategies/

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James H. Morris [5]:

https://www.aauw.org/resources/career/boost-your-career/tackle-

hurdles-to-salary-negotiation/ [6]: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary/how-to-negotiatesalary [7]:

https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/salaries-and-skills/be-ready-for-

salary-negotiations-with-these-8-tips [8]:

https://www.thebalancecareers.com/salary-negotiation-tips-how-to-

get-a-better-offer-2063439 [9]:

https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2021/04/19/advice-salary-

negotiations-opinion [10]: https://careerattraction.com/definitive-guide-negotiating-first-salary/ [11]: https://getfive.com/blog/salary-negotiation-guide/ [12]:

https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-negotiate-salary-37-tips-

you-need-to-know [13]:

https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/make-money/career/how-to-

negotiate-salary/

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Starting Your Own Business If you are planning to start a business, you need a business plan, the right people to fill the gaps for you, the suitable space to work in, and, of course, money. The first step to becoming a successful entrepreneur is to find a business idea that works for you. First, we should make sure that you are the right candidate to run a small business. Regardless of your challenges, building your own business from scratch is an exciting opportunity. Whether you have a passion for crafting beautiful furniture or other household goods, wood crafting could be a small niche for you. You can start a Shopify business or look for freelance companies. Avoid common mistakes and seek advice from experienced small business owners who want to help. Starting a business means planning, financial decisions, market research, and gaining knowledge in areas you never thought you would have to learn from. You will learn how to write a business plan, define your company's legal structure, and much more. We have compiled a 14-step guide to starting a business to help you put in the best foot forward today. It is important to note that there is no silver bullet for creating a new business. Still, these steps will help you organize your thoughts and iron out important details before starting your business so that you can answer essential startup questions. A business plan enables you to determine where your business is going, how it can overcome potential difficulties, and what you need to sustain it. 124

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Step 1. Check Yourself if You're Ready There is never a right time to start a business. Romeo and Juliet's stars couldn't align for them, and they probably won't align for you either. If you view that as the thing holding you back from starting, or if you view it as an inspiration to get started today, you can either ignore it or use it to motivate you. It's more about mindset than timing when it comes to deciding if you're ready to start your own business. Right now, are you in the right frame of mind to win? If you didn't shout heck yeah, you might need to reconsider whether entrepreneurship is the right path for you. It's easy to say you're going to start a business. The challenge is turning nothing into something that makes money. In addition, you need to be mentally prepared for the task. Why is that? Well, such challenges will exist, such as generating advertisements that result in sales. When your mindset isn't the right one, any failure may have devastating results for you. However, if you're in the right frame of mind, you'll KAPOW! Until you finally start winning, you will have many failures. Step 2. How to Decide What Type of Business to Start It is essential to understand the type of business you want to start before starting your own. Do you have a particular passion for a niche? Would you like to have an active role in the business, or are you looking to just own

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James H. Morris and run it? Would you like to turn your hobby into a business? These are just a few of the questions to ask yourself before starting your own business. You can start everything from a Shopify store to a freelance business, as MVMT Watches did. You can either build a company by yourself by owning a consulting business or producing a company with a team, such as a manufacturing business or a restaurant. Make a list of things you're passionate about to figure out what type of business you want to start. For instance, yoga, personal finance, dogs, movies, food, and clothing. You can then use a tool like Keywords Everywhere to find out how popular your list is on Google. Understanding how popular your ideas are will help you decide what to include. Google Trends can also help you determine a niche's future viability by evaluating if it's trending upward, downward or stable. Next, take a look at your top three most popular keywords and answer this question: “In five years from now, which niche would not only get me out of bed in the morning but also motivate me to continue creating content/products/tools for it?”” Which business idea do you have in mind? Step 3. Decide on a business model

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Think about how you'll execute your business idea in your niche after coming up with an idea. Here's where a business model comes into play. Your business model is how you plan to provide value and make money from your customers. It helps to know about some tried-and-tested business models when learning how to start a business. The following are six types of business models to consider: •

Affiliate marketing: Promote other businesses’ products and services online, and earn a commission for each sale.

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Freelancing: You provide a service to individuals and businesses using a skill you have, such as advertising, writing, designing, or programming.

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Coaching and Consulting: Offer your expertise, advice, and guidance as a coach or consultant.

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Information Products: Package and sell your expertise as ebooks, worksheets, templates, and online courses.

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Software as a service (SaaS): Create software or an application and charge recurring subscription fees.

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Ecommerce: Set up a website and sell physical products online using a service like Shopify.

Step 4. Research the market 127

James H. Morris The next step is to identify your target market. In other words, who will you serve? The importance of this step cannot be overstated. Marketer Philip Kotler once remarked, "There can be only one winning strategy.". Defining a target market and directing a superior offering at that market is crucial. Here's the trick: Make sure you are a member of your target audience. Consider it. You will understand the problems, desires, and language of other campers if you've been camping your entire life. As a result, camping products would be much easier to sell online. Your marketing will also be more effective since you'll know how to communicate with other campers. As a result, if you've never gone camping, you'd probably have a tough time selling camping products online. When choosing your target audience, ask yourself: What are my interests and hobbies? What do I know a lot about? How do I spend the majority of my time thinking, talking, and reading?

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams According to business consultant Peter F. Drucker, marketing aims to know and understand the customer so profoundly that the product or service fits him and sells itself. Step 5. Solve a problem One key thing to remember when learning how to start an online business is that all businesses solve a problem. Leaking pipes are fixed by plumbers. Hollywood movies satisfy people's boredom, curiosity, interest, and need for escape and relaxation. Brands of clothing allow people to express themselves and feel attractive. Golden rule: The bigger and better the problem you can solve, the more money people will be willing to pay. Take healthcare services as an example. Almost everyone is willing to spend so much money on them because they solve a big problem. However, very few people will pay you to stop their table from wobbling. It's not a big problem, and they don't need any help. Bottom line: You need to find a good problem to solve if you want to figure out how to start an online business. The following are three examples: Target market: Fashion-conscious teen boys Problem: Fashion-conscious people want to stand out without spending too much money. 129

James H. Morris Solution: Design a clothing line that is both flamboyant and affordable. Target market: Managers of marketing departments at international software companies. Problem: Website traffic must be increased. Solution: Rank your articles high on Google's first page for traffic. Target market: Working mothers with young children. Problem: Many moms want to work out regularly, but they do not have the time. Solution: Design a workout schedule and fitness program that saves you time. What are some ways to find a problem to solve? Ask people what they need help with in Facebook groups and online forums. Discover what people are searching for with Google Ads. Identify the problems they solve and look for ways to improve them. Step 6. Achieving Realistic Goals and Expectations Business failure is often caused by naive expectations. Every day I hear of people pouring thousands of dollars into ads with the hope that their money will triple or quadruple, only to end up with that big, fat zero. 130

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Let's try to paint the picture of what a realistic scenario might look like. The first year of your business is all about failure. How come? You're starting your first business. Many people approach their first business with a false sense of optimism. You casually think to yourself, "If that guy can do it, so can I." In reality, you ignore the fact that he's on his fourth business, or he's been running it for seven years. When people learn how to start a business, I love, love, love how excited they are. If you expect to dominate the world on day one, you will fail due to extreme disappointment in a matter of months. Perseverance separates a successful business from a failed one. Have you got what it takes to promote your business even if you don't have customers or website visitors after a month? Are you savvy enough to recognize when a strategy won't work? Are you patient enough to play the slow and steady game (meaning you might not see sales right away but will see more significant returns over time)? As you know, those first few months will call for every ounce of hustle you have. How will you approach your business goals then? Rather than focusing on your first sale, you might create content that drives relevant traffic. You may decide to build a following on Instagram before you start a business, so you have an audience when the time comes to launch.

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James H. Morris While SMART goals can provide you with a framework for goal setting, your final plans should be determined based on your experience and business type. Step 7. Create an introductory business plan on a single page You don't need to overspend time on your business plan unless you're going to the bank to get a loan. Handwrite a business plan on a piece of paper. When I handwrite my goals, I am more likely to achieve them (sorry!). To stay focused on my goals, I always carry them around with me. Let's get back to real-world advice. Include the following in your one-page business plan: •

Your business' solution to a problem

•

Your business' elevator pitch (what you do in one sentence)

•

A list of your target audiences (For example, dog owners, users of social media for dogs)

•

SWOT

Analysis

(Strengths,

Weaknesses,

Opportunities, and Threats to your business) •

Marketing plan (list of ideas on how you’ll promote your business)

•

Financial plan (list of business costs, how you'll pay for the business up-front, and how the business will make money)

•

Quarterly financial projections (January to March, April to June, etc.)

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Step 8. It’s time to get feedback Now that you've got a great idea, you've set some goals, and you've developed a plan, it's time to get some feedback. It has been known for this stage to kill many ideas (and sometimes even good ones). The feedback stage is meant to help you improve your idea by getting a second opinion. Ask for feedback on a particular component of the business idea rather than the whole concept. No matter what you do, never ask someone you love. You can trust me. In many cities, you can speak with an entrepreneur at a business center who will give you advice on how to start a business. You can even be mentored by an entrepreneur in your field in some cities' programs for young adults. It doesn't matter if you're working on tried-and-true or unusual business ideas; get feedback from the right people to help you succeed. Step 9. How to Pay for Your Business Many people pay for their business through their 9 to 5 jobs. You should not quit your day job until you have generated enough income to cover your expenses, taxes, and yourself for six months. Starting out, you probably won't be able to pay yourself since you'll need to reinvest your earnings back into your business so you can scale it faster.

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James H. Morris However, some businesses require minimal costs, such as freelance businesses that might require some software or a computer that you may already own or have access to. Step 10. Partner Up Since solopreneurship is on the rise, this won't apply to everyone. In business, success sometimes comes in pairs. Neither Rome nor a successful business was built in a day. Your business will take a lot of time and resources. Building alongside someone you trust will allow you to break up the workload, so you progress faster. You can also use it to hold yourself accountable. One of the most important things to remember about a partnership is knowing how well you work together. Can I trust this person? Have you ever worked together before? In the past, how have you two handled conflicts? How well do your skillsets complement each other? Is a business relationship likely to ruin your current relationship/friendship? Choosing the wrong partner, if you decide to have one, can have negative consequences, so ask all the tough questions. Step 11. Business Names Choosing the right business name can be difficult, especially if you want a .com domain to go with it. To help you come up with a name, you can use a free business name generator. Most brands include their keyword in their brand name, such as Fashion Nova. Some brands, such as Oberlo, create unique names. 134

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams Business names should be catchy, memorable, easy to spell when heard, have available usernames and domains, and be concise. The best naming ideas sometimes come from bouncing names with friends because a second opinion can add a different perspective. Feel free to ask a second opinion if you are having trouble choosing a brand name. Step 12. Business Registration You may not need to register your business until you earn a certain amount of income or profit from it, so you'll need to do your homework to find out which laws apply to you. However, some entrepreneurs register their businesses on day one to avoid liability. When your business is incorporated on day one and then sued in the early stages, the hit goes to your business instead of you. Therefore, the sooner you incorporate your business, the safer you (personally) are from a legal standpoint. There are many types of business ventures available to you, in addition to incorporation. In addition, you can become a sole proprietor or form a partnership. Choosing the proper business structure for your situation will require some research before you start a business. Step 13. Creating Your First Product or Service When starting a business, you can create a variety of products or services. 135

James H. Morris Oberlo lets you choose from millions of products that you can sell from any popular niche, including fashion, jewelry, home decor, automotive, beauty, electronics, and more. You can create digital products, such as ebooks, courses, music, or other digital content if you are an industry expert. Your expertise can be monetized with products and upsold with services. You can create a SAAS product that helps other businesses if you are in the software industry. If you are a consultant, you can offer speaking engagements, coaching, or your skillset. The products you create for your business will be heavily influenced by your skillset and business type. Countless products can be ordered or made and sold to an audience. Pro tip: If you plan to start freelancing, coaching, or consulting, Shopify has options to integrate popular tools such as Digital Downloads for digital products, ReCharge for subscription sales, and SendOwl for selling videos. Step 14. Getting Your Business Promoted Promotion is the most essential stage of starting a business. To turn your idea into a business, you need to put your business in front of people. Here are some ways you can promote your business idea: •

With Facebook Ads, you can target "broad" interests and include relevant brands as an

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams interest to capture their audience. Additionally, you can post in Facebook groups as your fan page, which is excellent for businesses with niche audiences. •

Grow your Instagram followers to make sales from each Instagram post. Direct links can also be added to Instagram Stories to increase sales.

•

When you're just starting out, group boards are a great way to gain visibility for your posts. You can also create your own boards to promote your content. Promote other brands' content to avoid having your account marked as spam.

•

LinkedIn: Create posts and share your thoughts on articles on LinkedIn to build your personal brand. Follow relevant users to increase your reach.

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SEO: Optimizing your website for search and creating blog content will generate more leads, email subscribers, and traffic to your website.

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You can promote your website by answering niche questions on Quora. To increase your visibility on Quora, you can use SEO tools to find high-ranked Quora keywords.

•

Create a clubhouse where your brand can be discussed. It is also possible to join other rooms related to your niche and communicate with other business owners. Establish relationships

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As you probably know, starting a business can be an intimidating process that requires a lot of hard work. It might slip through your fingers if you do, but taking out the right insurance for your business is an important step you should take before you start. When you start a business, there is always a price, and you have to determine how you want to cover that price. If you feel a strong desire to help others or offer a product or service, consider this one of the first warning signs that you are ready to start a business. To start a new business, continue to work in your current position or day job to reduce financial risk. Working on a business idea builds your skills to offer something new and innovative to the market. As an entrepreneur, your value is in solving problems, whether with your product or service, solving problems for others around you, or solving problems in your organization. Once you have developed your business idea and are ready to create a business plan, you need creative financing. I often hear business owners advised not to go ahead with a business until they have examined every detail of the business they want to set up to ensure it works and is profitable. If you take steps now to prepare for it, your business will be more likely to be successful if you are sure that you are ready to start.

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams No matter what kind of business you start and run, you will always have competitors. If you want to build a business, you must develop a system or method to hire other people to work with the company while you plan the business. Otherwise, if you cannot bring other people on board, you limit the growth potential. Most people who think about starting a business focus on selling and how they will sell the business. The other business deals you want to sell are likely to be other products and services that your target customers can use to meet their needs. Entrepreneurship is an idea that appeals to many. Still, the decision to start a business can be overwhelming and frightening for some people. Whether you are starting a small business for personal services or something else, there are some topics you should consider and plan. Creating CVs, cover letters, and the portfolio required for a new job can be exhausting and time-consuming. The creation of websites for other small businesses, technical support for specific projects, and high-quality web development are also very much in demand. And as if that wasn’t enough, there seems to be a new business trend every other week. If you are wondering how to start a small business and ensure your success, look no further. Suppose you have heard millionaires and successful business people. In that case, you know that you don’t need a fancy college education or millions of dollars to be successful - just a commitment to work on a smart 139

James H. Morris business idea that brings value to your customers, whether it’s a product or service. Here are 11 steps you need to follow to get started on a deal that will last just one day each. You can use your business plan as part of your pitch to investors and banks to attract potential partners and board members. You can use it to define your strategy, tactics, and specific activities for implementation, including key milestones, deadlines, budgets, and cash flow. While a forward-looking business plan is an extensive document that you will use to get a loan from a bank, it is also a tool to help guide how your business will grow and achieve its goals. The company that you choose directly influences various factors, such as your company name, liabilities, and the way you file your taxes. Choose an intelligent, affordable, all-in-one application, and you can save money and time in your operational work and focus on growing your business.

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams [5]: https://www.entrepreneur.com/slideshow/299775 [6]: https://howtostartanllc.com/start-a-business [7]: https://www.forbes.com/sites/allbusiness/2018/07/15/35-step-guideentrepreneurs-starting-a-business/ [8]:

https://foundr.com/articles/building-a-business/ecommerce/21-

reasons-to-start-a-business-today [9]: https://milesanthonysmith.com/blog/how-to-start-your-own-business/ [10]: https://blog.hubspot.com/sales/small-business-ideas [11]:

https://smallbiztrends.com/2015/04/businesses-you-can-start-for-

less-than-100.html [12]:

https://articles.bplans.com/business-ideas/7-steps-to-starting-your-

own-business/ [13]: https://www.oberlo.com/blog/how-to-start-a-business [14]: https://startupsavant.com/how-to-start-a-business [15]:

https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/4686-how-to-start-a-

business.html [16]: https://www.girlboss.com/read/start-a-business-without-money

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Finding Your Passion Society puts a lot of pressure on you to “get over it” and find a career step, but we are at a point where we are adults and are much more flexible and can approach life step by step. If you are in the space of feeling that you are not sure what to do with your life or think that you have no passion but still want to find that passion, you are probably in the right place. There is nothing wrong with finding a job that you enjoy and one you can bring your passion with you. Suppose you are looking for something that will change your life. In that case, I recommend finding something you are passionate about and finding something you can do for a living. Here are five steps you can take to find your passion and do something you love. Note: What you discover through these steps may not necessarily be what you need to do for your job. You don't have to give up your passion for learning to find a job you enjoy. Whether it's a part of the job or not.

Having a job that takes care of you, your future family, has good benefits, you feel like you're learning a lot, and then having a passion that's a hobby or a side gig would be ideal. As an example, I enjoy writing and blogging but cannot yet support myself to turn my blog into a full-time business. That's totally fine! Whatever you choose, it must feel right to you.

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With all of this in mind, what you discover through these steps might be something you're passionate about now, but it might change later in life. As you age, you change. It is part of life - your interests change, shift, and grow. It's all part of being human. 1. It's best to go with what feels good to you. When someone comes to me asking, "How do I find a new hobby? "this is one of the top pieces of advice I give them. What is my passion?” Spending time doing what you enjoy is part of following what feels good. What do you consider a good decision if you have to make one? Listen to your instincts and trust yourself. In considering all of your options, what do you naturally gravitate towards? Do you feel good when you begin to make decisions or choose to take part in certain activities? Are you heading in the right direction? No matter what you choose to explore, does it feel like you're taking positive and productive action towards something you might enjoy in the future? It is essential to follow your intuition. It may be hard to follow your intuition if you're not used to it, especially if you usually follow what other people say you "should" do. Don't do that—Honestly.

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James H. Morris Regardless of what you enjoy doing, you need to find out what you like, even on a fundamental level. 2. What do you find interesting? When I was learning about finding a niche for freelance writing, one of the best pieces of advice I ever received was: Picture yourself walking into a bookstore. What section do you gravitate towards first? Do you naturally gravitate toward the business section? What about the biography section? I am naturally drawn to the self-development section. My blog and business are both all about personal growth, so it makes sense that this is the bookstore section I gravitate to. Even if you're drawn to science-fiction or fantasy. It may not translate directly into a career, but that's okay! You're not trying to find a job; you're trying to find something you love to do, something you can pursue in some way to help you feel fulfilled and happier in life. Perhaps you don't care about books at all and go straight to the movies, music, or vinyl section. You never know - that could be a hobby! 3. Let go of your fears. Don't worry about being judged by others. While you are working through these steps, you might realize that what you really enjoy doing is something other people don't understand. What's more? That's perfectly fine. 144

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams As someone who usually liked things that were made fun of as a child (and might I add, the Jonas Brothers are HUGE right now so, #noregrets), I completely understand how something like this might prevent you from expressing your passions. Remember that these judgments from other people are not reflections of who you are. They are reflections of who THEY are and how they feel about themselves. People's judgments of you aren't a reflection of who you are but a reflection of who THEY are as people and how they feel about themselves. You'll be able to enjoy life so much more and be able to freely pursue whatever passion or interest you find if you just stick to who you are and let go of the fear of being judged by others. 4. Be proactive and take action Moving forward doesn't always mean doing what's easy. It means to be proactive. You can't sit back and think, "Oh, I enjoy this.". I feel great." and NOT do anything. With that kind of approach, nothing will happen! Is it really possible to find what you want in life by just sitting around and thinking about it? No, I do not think so. Start participating in life and get involved. Read some interesting books, watch some new movies, do some research online, take up a new hobby. 145

James H. Morris There is no way to find out what you love to do unless you actually do it. If you try something and find that you're not passionate about it, it's one thing off your list that you know will not be your passion. Another step you should keep in mind is to try your best to bring passion and enthusiasm into everything you do. This will not only make your life better and more enjoyable, but you'll also have a better chance of discovering your true passion if you're enthusiastic about the process. With passion and enthusiasm, you have a much higher chance of enjoying what you're doing overall or at least gaining full experience in what you're participating in and trying. 5. You don’t have to worry about money. You don't have to make a fortune out of your passion. This doesn't have to be your only occupation. During our childhood, many of us were taught to follow our passions when looking for a job. Life doesn't always work out that way. I'm not telling you to give up; I'm just saying that you bring your passion along with you as you move forward in life. What's really important is that you don't forget about your passion. Don't let it go. When you are doing something you enjoy, it doesn't have to be profitable. As a hobby, you can do this as a passion project, even if it does not make any money! Perhaps you really enjoy

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Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams volunteering and have a passion for helping animal shelters. I think that's great. That's amazing, in fact! If that's what brings you joy and fulfillment, then go for it. If you love something, don't get discouraged if it doesn't make you money. In our society, we have been conditioned to think that we should monetize every moment of our lives if we can. BUT YOU DON'T HAVE TO DO THIS AT ALL!! Don't put pressure on yourself to make money doing what you love. It's not about making millions off of what you love doing. Although that's nice, the real goal here is to figure out what you really love to do and what gives you joy and excitement.

Learning how to find your passion is not as easy as it sounds, but it is definitely worth it. Before we break down how to “find your passion,” we should make sure we don’t confuse it with anything else. One of my passions is that the average person works 90,000 hours, according to Happiness at Work. I refuse to believe that we are destined to spend these hours in misery. If there is one thing you can do to change your life, find what you are passionate about and do it in a profession, business or hobby. But just because something is good doesn’t mean you have to be passionate about it and not focus all your energy on things you can excel at. Before we get this out of the way, let’s talk about some strategies you can try as you struggle to find your passion.

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James H. Morris This is the concept of finding a job that you love and fills you with passion and happiness. It’s not easy, but it’s worth the journey because it pays off, and you do something you love. Imagine what it feels like to work hard and do something you’re not passionate about. If you are convinced that it is too hard to find your passion, that it will not happen to you, you are most likely closed to all possibilities. Suppose you want to contribute to your passion, to society or to earn an income from it. In that case, you need to have a realistic idea of how you can make it into a career and what you need to achieve. The path to a passion is with you, and the things that frighten you will leave you in a constant state of fear. When you ask how to find my passion, what comes to mind is to get out a piece of paper and start writing down ideas. Consider a subject with which your heart is satisfied, and it will help you start with what you can learn about finding your passion. The more opportunities you find, the more likely you are to learn to find your passion in the long run. See where they land, what they do, and how they feel when they discover their passion. For example, I love writing and blogging but don’t support turning my blog into a full-time business. If you find a job that takes care of you and your family and brings good benefits, you will feel that you have learned a lot from your passion as a hobby or part-time occupation. If your new idea is a hobby rather than a side job, you can consider it your true vocation. 148

Do It Your Way: Finding the Career of Your Dreams The key to finding your passion is taking the time to recognize the things in your life that make you happy, excited, motivated, and fulfilled. Discovering your passion can help you determine the salary level, benefits, and other work characteristics you need to support your lifestyle. For example, suppose you notice that you passionately enjoy spending time at home with your family. In that case, you can look for a job that makes this possible. When it comes to asking yourself questions, this set of questions will help you identify patterns and themes in your life. These patterns indicate the people or groups you care about, the problems you are passionate about, and the solutions you can offer. 1. What kind of work interests me? What kind of work brings you high emotion? Consider a task, function, or role at work that you've done or have always wanted to do. How do you feel when you think about that work and allow yourself to focus on it? Do you feel joy, energy, and enthusiasm when you are in the middle of it or consider the possibility? They are signs of emotional investment. 2. What type of work do I want to do? What do you feel a solid devotion to? If you were to do this work or think about it, would you still want to do it on the tough days? When you are not feeling well, and there are a lot of stressful things going on? You're devoted if you show up and do a good job no matter what challenges you face.

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James H. Morris It means you have found something you are passionate about if you have high emotion and high devotion to it. It is not enough to have a single component - you need both ingredients to stick with the work long term. Knowing where your highlights take place will take you a step closer to understanding how your passion relates to your career and other parts of life. We tend to focus our resources on the most important things, including time and money. While some people choose to pursue their passions outside of work in their spare time, others prefer to dedicate their daily work and life to their desires.

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