Job seekers spend hours and hours preparing their resumes, posting for jobs online, networking and (hopefully) creating a job search plan (more on that another time...). If they read my previous article, they have checked their references. Job seekers set up their work space, charge their cell phones, pour that cup of coffee and hit the ground running. But one thing many job seekers, especially young professionals don't do is to ensure that they are projecting a ...

Most job seekers have compiled a list of references who can vouch for their job performance. Ideally, the job seeker will have asked their references if they can speak to their abilities and the result will be a glowing recommendation. But this is one area you cannot leave to chance. Most prospective employers will contact the former employer whether or not they are on "the list". A bad reference can and will prevent job offers so ...

We all know the ABCs of successful interviewing: arrive 5-10 minutes early, be able to answer the question: Tell me about yourself, etc. But, how do you respond when you REALLY don't have the specific experience they are asking? You can fib but that's not a good idea: you almost always get caught and usually at the worst possible time. A better approach would be to respond honestly: you don't have that experience but "let me tell you about a time ...

A liberal arts degree is not worth the money; my son/daughter will need a job! The most recent college graduate hiring survey data shows that employers are looking for candidates of all majors and backgrounds. Candidates who can demonstrate flexibility and leadership are the ones who will secure the available jobs first. In addition, many jobs that we are training people for now did not exist 10 years ago. Employers hire college graduates based on potential and GPA. ...

Career Treking is going on its fifth year coaching college students and young professionals. We are often asked what mistakes young professionals make on the job search. Here are some very common mistakes we see people of all ages make. Make sure you're not one of them. Lack of focus. A specific career goal is the single most important component to any job search. Many people spend more time researching the purchase of a laptop than ...