Getting What You Want in Life

In life we've all experienced not getting what we want. We also do get what we want, on occasion, but it seems to work the other way around more often.  It's probably because we all seem to want so many things. There's always a better job, material thing, situation, or person that we get our heart set on.  If one of those works out, great.  But that still means there are three other things we wanted that we didn't get.  But it's not all bad. Sometimes not getting what you want is a really good thing.  Although it doesn't seem like it at the time, you may very well have dodged a bullet.  I'll give you an example from my life.

Related: Getting What You Want Out of LinkedIn

After I got divorced I sold my house and was looking to buy another in a neighborhood close to my grandmother.  My son was in elementary school and she offered to watch him after school each day until I got home from work.  I found the perfect house a couple of streets over.  I loved this house.  It was beautiful, exactly the right size, in a great location and even had a bathroom connected to what would be my son's room, which was something he specifically requested.  My offer was accepted and we went into escrow.  A week later, the house I had sold fell out of escrow.  My buyers were not pre-approved for their loan as they had claimed.  So I had to stop escrow on the house I wanted so badly. And someone else bought it.  I was so disappointed.  At that point in my life, I wanted nothing more than to give my son stability and security.  I had even already planned where the Christmas tree would go.  But not long after, I realized there had been something better waiting for me.


Two months later, with the house I was selling in escrow with verified pre-approved buyers, I started looking for a house again.  The first house I looked at had just come on the market and I was the buyer to see it.  It was directly across the street from my grandmother.  The interior was stunning, with gorgeous upgrades, and the backyard was positioned so no neighboring house could see into it.  It was better than the first house, closer to my grandmother, and less expensive.  I happily bought it and moved us in a month later.  We still live there, now.  Now, it worked out, but there's more to the story. It actually worked out way better than I could have imagined, but it took about a year for me to really see it.  And this was definitely a case of dodging a bullet.

Related: Networking and Online Dating: Get What You Want

During the time I found the first house, the one I lost, I met and became friends with a couple who had recently moved into the area from out of state.  They were looking for a house and I recommended my realtor.  She took them to see a house two doors down from the one I lost.  And they bought it.  Over the next year or so, as I got to know them better, I met some of their other friends.  Most were very nice people.  There were a few that were not.  One in particular, that I didn't want around my son, began staying with them.  The husband and this friend would drink heavily and run around the neighborhood late at night, like teenagers. They even came to my house late one night pounding on my door.  I can only imagine how much worse it would have been if I lived almost next door.  I wouldn't have felt safe with my son walking home there or playing outside.  So even though that house had seemed so perfect, it turns out it would have been a nightmare.

We're all going through something where we aren't getting what we want. Whether it's a goal we want to achieve, a relationship with a person we'd like to know better, or job we'd like to have, the hard part is not knowing how it will turn out. Whether we'll get it, or not.  All each of us can do is continue to try, continue to work toward what we want and have faith that things do work out for the best. Even when it doesn't seem like it at the time.  It will happen, and when it does, it will be exactly what you need. Even if it isn't what you originally wanted.

So You've Added Connections to Your Network, Now What?

Making new connections and building your network takes time and effort.  You have to attend networking events, present yourself well, and actually talk to people.  You've gone out and done the work.  You made eye contact, were a good listener, and met a lot of interesting people that are the newest members in your LinkedIn contacts.  Great.  So, now what do you do with them?  How do you put this network you've built to some use for you?  I've got good news and bad news.  The bad news is, while building your network takes effort, it doesn't stop there.  The good news is, that the effort you make in engaging your network is worth more than you can imagine.  But you have to know how to go about it.

Related:  Tips for Networking in Person

Without a network it's almost impossible to get anywhere in business, whether you own one or you're looking to work for one.  That's why we network.  The more people know and like you, the more willing they are to help you.  That's the purpose of your network, but it's also the purpose of the people who's networks you belong to.  It's not just about you.  They've included you as a contact because of the probability that you may be of benefit to them, at some point.  They're networking for the same reasons you are.  To help themselves get ahead.  


The point is to make other people want to help you as much as they want to help themselves.  The only way to do that, is to help them first.  When you're looking for opportunities for yourself, make sure you keep an eye out for how you can help someone else.  Make a habit of looking for opportunities for others in your network and contacting them to let them know.  Like anything, the more you do it, the easier it becomes.  

Related:  Using Your Network to Find a Job

Just for example, the other day I was meeting with a potential client to discuss a social media marketing plan.  During the conversation it was mentioned that they're also going to need someone to help them with more traditional marketing methods, like print and radio.  The first thing I thought of was a friend who owns a marketing company that could help them.  Although it wouldn't be business for me, I asked what their needs were so I could pass it along to my friend.  If I can help generate some business for him, he's likely to do the same for me.  And tell other people that I helped him, too.

If you want people to help you, which is the purpose of building your network, you have to help them first.  Actively look for opportunities for people you know, and refer them.  When you start helping others succeed, they'll start helping you.  And really, it's just the law of karma.  You get back what you put out.  

Tips for Networking in Person

Networking can be challenging regardless of whether it's online or in person.  Both methods have their own particular rules and etiquette that you have to keep track of.  The benefit of online networking is that it's more passive.  You don't have to leave the couch and actually go talk to other people.  It doesn't even require pants.  Since you can build your network, pants-less from the couch, why should you bother getting out and networking in person?

Related: Networking and Online Dating

Networking in person gives you, and everyone else, a chance to get to know each other better.  When you're present physically, you can do things like make eye contact and shake hands.  These things are actually pretty beneficial when you're building a relationship.  And it's more fun than sitting at home trying to make sure you're not getting orange cheese puff powder on your keyboard.  It is, I promise. Besides, there's frequently free snacks and drinks at networking events.  Although I don't suggest just hanging out at the snack table.

Here's what I do suggest;  

1.  Make sure you smile.  This doesn't mean plaster a creepy, plastic grin on your face and turn it on anyone who looks your direction.  Unless you're Wednesday Addams, this won't work for you.  Smile genuinely at other people while making eye contact and say hello.  Most people will respond in kind, especially at a networking event. And this opens the door to....

2.   Introducing yourself.  Once you've made that initial connection with your dazzling smile and brilliantly played hello, follow it up with "My name is....." and a handshake.  They'll automatically introduce themselves and you've got the conversation started.  It's just that easy.  

3.  Ask leading questions about the other person and listen to the answer.  Don't worry so much about what you're going to say next or jump right in with what you do.  Ask about them first, listen to what they have to say, and follow it with a question about what they just told you.  Encouraging someone to talk about themselves, and listening to what they say, is key to having people like you.  You'll make them feel special and that you value their time.  And once they like you, they're much more receptive to what you have to say.

Related:  Making a Great First Impression

4.  Get there on time or even a few minutes early.  If you're one of the first people to arrive you won't be met with an intimidating mass of people already grouped up in conversation.  Instead, you'll be able to position yourself as a greeter, meeting people as they come in.  And you'll have your choice of who to speak with.  Leave that awkward feeling of trying to break into a group to someone else.  



5.  And the most important tip of all, have fun.  Networking isn't boring if you put the focus on learning about other people rather than promoting yourself.  It also takes a lot of pressure off you.  Rather than trying to think of what to say to show everyone how great you are, you just have to ask a few questions and let them do the talking.  Which is really what makes people think you're awesome, anyway.  


I know it's a hassle to get showered, dressed and out in public.  Introducing yourself to, and having conversations with, strangers can be intimidating.  But the connections you make will be worth it.  People are much more likely to help and recommend someone they've met and spoken with in person. Besides, networking events have different snacks than you do at home.  At the very least it'll add some variety to your diet. 

Learn to Use LinkedIn Like a Pro in An Hour

After receiving requests from clients, friends and readers, we caved and decided to hold an in-person LinkedIn workshop.  And because many of you aren't local to the Ventura County area, we're scheduling an online workshop, as well.  And as soon as that's been finalized, we'll let you know.  But for now, if you're local and want to learn how to make LinkedIn work for you, please join us.  Not only will it be informative and fun, but we'll have cookies. And you don't want to miss the cookies.

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Planning Your Career

Having an actual career takes a little more effort than just getting a job.  Although, there's nothing wrong with having a job that pays the bills and lets you go do something else that you like.  I had a friend that was a semi-pro cyclist. His career was cycling but he still had a job to keep a roof over his head.  But for most of us, we want a career that allows us to grow, learn and take on greater responsibilities, all while getting paid more with each step. Unfortunately, that doesn't just happen because you start working.  It takes some planning and goal setting to get things moving in the right direction.  

Related:  Enhance Your Job Skills

The obvious first step is to get training in whatever it is you want to do.  That could mean earning a degree (or several), going to a trade school or obtaining a specific certification.  However, in today's competitive job market, the right training may not be enough.  Lately, even entry level jobs are requiring some experience.  And a great way to get that experience is through internships and the best time to start doing them is while you're still in school.  This gives you the experience potential employers are looking for, shows you're motivated to work in your chosen field, and demonstrates your work ethic.


Once you've landed that job in your chosen field you still need to be looking ahead.  Decide what your next position should be and start laying the groundwork to get there.  Start by learning everything you can in your current position.  Take part in any relevant training your employer offers, become an expert in your field, and continue to learn throughout your career.  Ask questions and show interest in the work and projects of your coworkers as well as your manager.  Besides learning a lot, showing interest in others encourages them to be interested in you.  And people are more willing to give helpful opportunities to other people they like.  

These methods still work!

Which brings us to the next step, networking.  Constantly work on building your network.  Talk to people, ask about them, and show interest in what they do.  Make genuine connections with other professionals in your industry and offer to help them whenever you can.  If you help people with introductions, leads on open positions, and helping them land an interview, they're going to help you when you're ready to make your next move.  You may not even have to ask. It's human nature to want to reciprocate when help has been given already.  This is absolutely the best way to find your next position, even if it's at another company.

Related:  Networking and Online Dating

Keep your resume and LinkedIn profile up to date.  If you get an award, accomplish a major goal or finish a project, make the updates right away. It's easier to do as they happen, while it's still fresh in your mind, than it is all at once years later while you're stressing about getting it done so you can apply for that great position that just came open.  Keep everything updated regularly and you'll always be prepared to act quickly should the perfect opportunity arise.

Your career is yours to create, build and direct.  No one else can do it for you and it won't happen by accident.  Make a plan, lay the groundwork and be prepared to act fast when an opportunity presents itself.  Don't let your career just happen to you, make it happen for you.

How to Have a Successful Interview - Be Prepared

Landing an interview takes a lot of work and patience.  They're hard to come by, nowadays. But just scheduling an interview doesn't mean the hard part is over.  There's still some work to do if you want the interview to be successful. Don't waste all your effort up to this point by not preparing for the interview.  You managed to get them interested enough to speak with you in person, so don't lose that momentum. Make sure you're ready for the interview so you make an outstanding impression that makes them interested enough to hire you.  The interview is not the point.  Getting a paycheck is the point.  So until they're offering you one, you have to keep up your effort.  But it's not that hard.  Here are a few of the steps you need to take.


First, if you haven't already, research the company.  Go to their website and read it thoroughly.  I mean every page. Seriously.  You never know when a bit of trivia you picked up on their site will come in handy.  Years ago I was being interviewed for a position I wasn't sure I was really qualified for.  I knew I could do it if I had the chance but I wasn't sure if my interviewer would see it that way.  Anyway, during the interview I mentioned some charity work that the company was involved in that I thought was particularly impressive.  My interviewer wasn't even aware of the program and asked me to explain what it was about.  The rest of my interview was taken with my enthusiastically explaining the program.  And they offered me the job.  So make sure you know about the company you're interviewing with.  Get as much information as you can and make note of details that you find interesting or outstanding.  Especially the ones that make you really want to work for that company, in particular.  Effectively communicating why you want to work there and showing enthusiasm is probably the best way to get a job offer.

Related: Find Out Which Companies Are Hiring

I know you see this piece of advice here quite a bit, but here it is again; Check out your online presence and make absolutely certain that it reflects you and your career in a professional manner.  Start with your LinkedIn profile.  Fill it out completely, including your summary.  Use proper grammar and spelling.  You'll kill any chances of an interview if your profile reads like your third grader niece wrote it for you.  If you don't have the writing skills or aren't sure what to do, hire a professional.  Next, Google yourself.  Because that's what your interviewer is going to do.  If you don't know how to minimize negative search results, you should know what they are and what other people are seeing.  At least then you won't be surprised when they ask.  Again, if you need help in that area, hire a professional.

And last, come prepared to talk about the actual job.  Have your career plan in mind.  Think about where you want your career to go and what type of responsibilities you'd like to acquire as time goes on.  Give some thought, before you're asked, as to what you'd like to accomplish in the position you're interviewing for.  That way, when they ask about the direction you see yourself going, you'll be able to give a well thought out, planned, answer.  In addition to a career plan, bring along questions to ask your interviewer.  When they ask you if you have any questions for them, "no, not really" is not an acceptable answer.  Research what you should be asking, and why and take some time to write it down in a small notebook.  Bring the notebook with you to the interview.  That way, when they ask for your questions you'll have them written down and easily accessible.  And making notes on their answers doesn't hurt, either.  That way if you have multiple interviews, it'll be easier to remember what happened at each when you're choosing between jobs.

Related: What Questions to Ask During Your Interview

Finding a job or new position is a job in itself.  Getting the interview is only part of the work you have to put in.  Being prepared before your interview is the best way to make a fantastic impression.  You'll come across as more knowledgeable, genuinely interested in working there and demonstrate your dedication to your career.  Even if you're not particularly interested in working there, because really, sometimes you just need a paycheck and you don't really care who it comes from. But you don't want them to know that.  They should think you're the answer to their problems.  And for a while, you can be.  You just have to get in, first.

Using Social Media in Your Job Search

We all know about Social Media.  It's hard not to at this point.  The big three...LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook, are all part of everyday life.  Even if you're not using all three, you're at least aware of what they are.  Or you should be, anyway, because they can mean a big difference in the amount of time it takes you to land that next job.  If you use Social Media as a job search and networking resource, you'll find better opportunities and grow your network faster and more effectively than ever before. You just need to know how to use it and which ones to use.

Related:  LinkedIn Basics

The most obvious place to start if you're looking to make a change in your career is LinkedIn.  Before you really start using it, make sure your profile is up to date, professional and well written.  This is the first place people will find you so be certain you're making the best first impression you can.  Once that's taken care of, you're ready to get out there.  On LinkedIn you can follow the companies you want to work for, join groups focused on areas you're interested in and find jobs listed that show how many people have already applied.  Following companies doesn't need much explanation.  Just search for the company's business page and click follow.  You'll get notifications on their updates, including job posts.  You can also see which of their employees are on LinkedIn.  You may even find people you know and having a person inside is the quickest way to a job.  Start following groups that focus on things like employment, job searching and whatever industry you happen to work in.  You'll find information on jobs, tips on how best to apply and make new connections in your field.  You can also apply for jobs directly from LinkedIn.  The best part about this is that when you read a job description it will tell you how many people have already applied.  If hundreds of people have applied, you know not to waste your time.  If you're not using LinkedIn to it's full potential, it's time to get started.

Another great place to get information on jobs, tips on your job search or advice on interviewing is Pinterest.  Now that they've started offering business accounts, more and more businesses are joining.  You can find follow companies in your industry and get an idea of what's important to them by what they're pinning to their boards.  This insight can help when crafting your cover letter to them as part of your application when they have an opening.  You can also follow companies that focus on career coaching and job placement.  They offer loads of advice on everything from interviewing and networking to dressing properly (and fashionably!) for your interview.  Pinterest isn't just for great recipes, anymore.  If you haven't yet, go check it out.  If you're wondering who to follow, take a look at our followers.  There are a lot of school alumni associations, employment agencies and career coaching services.

Related:  Twitter Basics 

The next best place to spend some quality social media time is on Twitter.  Again, you can follow companies you want to work for, career coaching professionals, and industry experts on any area you're interested in.  There are even employment agencies that will post job openings that aren't posted anywhere else.  This means there's less competition for the job and, more importantly, your resume will get in the hands of an actual person that is in a position to make a decision about who gets hired.  If you need ideas on who to follow, you can always subscribe to the Career Dragon lists.  Our lists are comprised of people and companies that tweet job openings and career advice.  Out of any Social Media platform, Twitter is the easiest to get in contact with people and start a conversation.  And once someone at the company you want to work for gets to know you a bit, you're much more likely to get an interview.

Social Media is not only a powerful resource in your career development, but a necessary one.  Anyone who is not using Social Media is at a disadvantage.  Many companies won't even interview someone without a LinkedIn profile and people who can't be found online are viewed as outdated and unable to keep up with today's career demands.  But it's not a bad thing, Social Media is fun.  Especially Pinterest.  Get started there when you have a little extra time.  You're going to get sucked in.  But you have a great excuse, it's all in the name of growing your career.

How to Make Your Job Search Effective

Even without the job market being as competitive as it is, finding a job is more complicated than just responding to an ad or submitting your resume online.  Make sure you're taking the following steps to ensure your job search is as effective as it can be.  The good news is, it's not that hard and won't take up that much more of your time.

So, here we go....




This one seems like a no-brainer but I've seen it so many times, it bears repeating.  Make absolutely certain that you have no misspellings or incorrect grammar on your resume. This alone can get your resume tossed out before anyone even finishes reading it.  That doesn't just mean run spellcheck, make sure you're using correct forms of their, there and they're and its and it's.  Keep in mind that your and you're are not interchangeable.  They're really not.  I promise. Google it if you don't believe me. I'll wait.  The perception is that if you pay so little attention to detail, or just don't have a strong enough grasp of the English language, you aren't going to work out at a job, either.  

Related: How to Screw Up Your Cover Letter

Make sure you have questions prepared to ask your interviewer.  When you get to the part of the interview where they ask if you have questions, a blank stare is not what they're looking for.  Take some time in the days before your interview and research a few good questions to ask.  Write them down in a small notebook with some room to take notes on the answer.  Then remember to take the notebook with you on the interview.  When they ask if you have questions and you whip out your little notebook, you'll give the impression of caring about the job and taking the interview seriously.  Which, if you hadn't guessed, is a great impression to make.

Related: Questions to Ask During an Interview

Impress them.  Ready, go!

Be able to clearly state what kind of job or position you're looking for.  This is also called your "elevator speech", as in, a concise statement of your employment objective that you can convey during the few seconds you have with someone in an elevator.  Sounds simple until you start trying to put one together that sounds reasonably intelligent.  It does take a little work but, when you come up with something that sounds good, practice it.  Rehearse it until you can say it without thinking while making it sound natural and conversational.  Like I said, it takes a little work but it's worth it.

One of the most important things to remember is to say thank you when you're networking.  If someone gives you an introduction to a person that may help you find a job, remember to thank them.  And when that new contact takes the time to talk to you about what you're looking for, say thank you to them, too.  Make sure you're appreciative of the help people are willing to give you because, really, they don't have to help you.  And if a network connection leads to an actual job, at the very least, send them a thank you card.  An actual, physical card.  It's a nice touch.  So is taking them to lunch but that's not always possible.  Besides, it's just good manners.

Related:  Networking Basics 

And the last thing, make sure you're easily found online.  If someone searches for you and doesn't find a LinkedIn profile, at minimum, you'll appear to be outdated and out of sync with today's technology.  And today's technology ties into every field you can name.  If you give the appearance of being out of touch, they won't even give you a chance.  At the same time, make sure your online image is something you don't mind people seeing.  Take some time to Google yourself and remove anything that you wouldn't want a potential employer to see and promote links to things that present you in a positive light.  If you're not sure how to do this, hire a professional.  This is one of the services Career Dragon provides, by the way.  It's more important than you probably realize.  A negative or non-existent online presence can cost you a job before you're even interviewed.

Things were much simpler when a "for hire" sign was placed in a window and you could just walk in.  You had the opportunity to make a great first impression in person, which is much easier than through a profile or resume.  The advances in technology have their pros and cons.  On the up side, employers now have access to a much larger candidate pool.  Although this makes competition for those positions more intense, it also gives you more options in the location, pay and type of jobs you can apply for.  But don't get nostalgic and go wandering in somewhere, unannounced, looking for a job.  It's considered trespassing, now.  And a bit creepy.  And creepy is not the impression you want to make.  I promise.

Changing the Direction of Your Career

Everyone gets to a point in their career where they take a look around and think, "Is this it?". And for some, that's enough.  They're happy where they are and with what they're accomplishing.  But for many of us, it's a realization that we need something else.  In most cases it isn't about the money but about the purpose.  The work may be ok, the money may be ok but there's just that sense of fulfillment that's missing.  It could be that you just need more of a challenge or maybe you need to feel that what you do makes a contribution to the world around you.  So, what can you do about it?  Turns out, there's plenty you can do.

Related:  Find Out Who's Hiring

It may seem that since we're in a recession, and jobs are harder and harder to come by, that making a change in your career isn't a great idea.  But it still can be done if you go about it the right way.  The first question to ask yourself is, what's missing from your career now that's leaving you feeling like you need a change? Identifying what's missing for you will define the direction you're going to take. Needing more of a challenge in your current industry will require a different strategy than if you're looking to change to a new industry altogether. 


Looking for a new challenge in your current industry really means that you're looking to transition your career to the next level.  You're ready to take on higher level responsibilities but not finding opportunities to do so where you're currently working.  The good news is, this is one of the easier transitions to make.  The bad news is that you may have to move to another company. But not necessarily.  The first step to take is to speak to your management and let them know you're ready to take on more responsibility and find out what it's going to take for them to help you make that transition.  It may very well be that they aren't inclined to promote you into the position you're ready for and if that's the case, then it's time to start looking elsewhere.  Start with your LinkedIn profile, your resume is less important and should just reflect what's on LinkedIn.  Write your profile in a way that presents you as the ideal candidate, giving examples of what you've accomplished and what you can offer to your new employer.  Setting up a personal website that goes into more detail on your career and why you are uniquely qualified shows potential employers that you go the extra mile and are willing to do it for them, too.

Related: Using Your Network to Find a Job  

If you're looking to transition into a new career altogether, you'll take a different approach.  After you've decided what your new direction will be, the next thing you'll need to do is make an honest evaluation of your skills.  The skills and experience you use in your current job can be transferred over to your new career, you just have to know how to present it.  Take a look at job descriptions for the job you want and start thinking about how your current skills could be applied.  Start your LinkedIn profile talking about the fact that you're looking to change industries or careers.  Write your LinkedIn profile in a way that highlights those transferrable skills so that's its obvious how you'll be able to use them once you transition.  A personal website is ideal for taking this a bit further and discussing why you want to make a change. Talk about your motivation and passion for your new career direction and why it's important that you make the change.  Play up your unique background making it clear that you can contribute in ways no one else can because of your experience outside that field.  Presenting yourself as the candidate with the most potential to contribute is key to getting people interested enough to interview you.

It is a tough job market right now.  But that doesn't mean you're stuck.  As long as you're willing to do the work necessary to make the changes you want to see, you'll be successful.  Presenting your career with a complete package of information including your LinkedIn profile, a personal website and your resume makes it easier to market yourself and get noticed by the right people.  Marketing yourself is easier said than done, however.  It's a good idea to hire a professional to get you started.  It's hard to see yourself and your accomplishments objectively like someone else will.  A professional can help you show off your achievements in ways you would never think of.  You can make the changes needed to have the career you want.  You just have to get started.

Why Isn't Your Job Search Working for You?

When a job search just isn't working out, even after exhaustively applying for anything you think you might be remotely qualified for, it's time to take a step back and really evaluate what you're looking for. The fact is, everyone needs a job.  Unless you were lucky enough to be born into money.  But if that's you, you're probably not reading this anyway.  So let's just go with how most of us were born, with a need to be gainfully employed.

Related:  Present Yourself as the Ideal Candidate

When you keep hitting a dead end and get little or no response to the jobs you've applied for, you have to take a look at the real reason why.  It probably has more to do with you and what you really want than it does with the tough job market. When you're pursuing a career without any real direction, ie; applying for anything you might be qualified for, you aren't taking into consideration what your heart and soul want and need.  And if you ignore them, they can be real jerks about preventing you from moving forward.  I'll use myself as an example...


I've had several careers.  I've worked in law enforcement, fashion design, as a research chemist and now an entrepreneur.  But it wasn't until I went to study Chemistry and do research that I was really doing what my heart wanted me to do.  And it wasn't until then that I found the type of success I was looking for.  The winding career path had to do more with well meaning people in my life giving me advice to follow the path they were most comfortable with.  Having fundamental christian parents, becoming a scientist was out of the question.  It wasn't something they understood and felt that it endangered my immortal soul.  So they meant well.  But it was still misguided.  As a result, I pursued things I wasn't really interested in and never really grew in those careers. It wasn't until I started listening to my inner voice telling me what I wanted that I found the success I was looking for.  My career progressed, I was published and promoted.  It was the career I had wanted.  But, even after getting a couple of degrees in Chemistry and doing research for a while I found that my career seemed stuck.  I realized it wasn't the work that had changed, or my love of science (quantum mechanics, hooray! I understand I have issues).  It was that I had changed.  I had accomplished what I set out to do but needed something more. So, after learning not to listen to well meaning but misguided advice, I started my own business.  And again, I'm enjoying myself and finding success in a way that I wasn't while doing research.  I'm moving forward again, all because I listened to my inner voice.

Related:  Turn Your Interview Into a Conversation

If you're not finding the enjoyment, fulfillment or success you want in what you're currently doing, it's time to make a change.  Stop listening to the advice of the people who care about you.  They mean well but want for you what makes them comfortable.  It's rare that someone close to you can give you objective advice.  Take a look at what you want to do, rather than what you feel you have to do.  Once you identify what you're really passionate about, start thinking on what jobs would allow you to work in that industry and what skills you have to offer.  I helped a recent client go through this.  He's a talented musician but success in the music industry is notoriously difficult.  Turns out, he has a talent for marketing.  He was the one to design artwork, advertise, book and promote the bands he was in.  He was finding no success in applying to office jobs but once we started talking about marketing within the music industry he lit up.  His passion is obvious and makes all the difference.  He's now able to move forward and is excited about the possibilities for his career. 

If things aren't moving for you, it's time to evaluate.  Do a little soul searching and really think about the direction you want to take.  It may be a simple matter of applying to the wrong kinds of jobs, the ones you really don't want, anyway.  Be honest with yourself, stop listening to everyone else and go after what you want. You'll start to see progress, you'll get unstuck.  And it will be due to the passion and interest you have pursuing what you really want.  Go for it.  The time will pass anyway, you may as well be doing what you want.

Don't Follow Outdated Advice

Things have radically changed in the job market in the last couple of years.  Besides being a lot more competitive, the way you go about applying for a job is very different.  And if you follow outdated advice, it could cost you an interview.  At Career Dragon, our focus is keeping your online professional presence up to date.  And what better way to do that than to address some of the questions we're asked most frequently by our clients.

First, let's talk about references on your resume.  Don't do it.  Don't even put the phrase "References available upon request".  Not only is that an outdated practice but it's not very considerate to the nice people who agreed to be your references.  When you give out their contact information to everyone you apply with, you're opening them up to a lot of unwanted and unnecessary queries.  You may not know if one of the positions you applied for is planning on contacting your references.  It's better to know ahead of time so you can give them a heads-up and tell them how much you appreciate their willingness to say nice things about you.  You don't need to let anyone know your references are available if they ask.  They know.  It's assumed that if you apply for a job, that you can provide references.  Just make sure you can.  And always remember to thank your references afterward.


Another bit of outdated advice is that cover letters aren't all that important. Hiring managers do read the cover letters.  A well written cover letter could mean the difference between your resume being seen and not. Take the time to write a well thought out, interesting and engaging cover letter. Indicate the position you're applying for and why you're interested.  Take a couple of lines to talk about the company and why you want to work for them.  The trick here is to keep it short and sweet but memorable.  If you give them what they want to hear, and do it without taking up too much of their time, that's exactly what you'll accomplish.  A great, memorable cover letter.

The last one we'll talk about is using some cheesy gimmick to make your resume stand out.  I know, I know, I saw the guy's resume that looked like an Amazon product ad and I thought it was cute, too.  But that isn't going to work for you. Trust me on this.  Mostly this tactic is found to be annoying.  And the last thing you want your resume to do is annoy anyone.  The way to stand out is to have a professionally written resume that provides links to your online presence.  They aren't going to spend a lot of time on your resume but they are going to want to see your LinkedIn profile and career website. And they are going to Google you. So make sure your profiles and sites are well written and professionally presented and you've taken care that only positive results come up in search results.  If you're not sure how, just ask us.  That's what we do for you.


You'll find much more success in your job search if you make sure you're using modern methods and strategies.  Things have changed even just in the last two years and it's up to you to make sure you're keeping up.  Looking outdated or out of touch is especially dangerous today.  With the focus on Social Media in every aspect of a company or business, you appearing to be in tune with what's going on right now is essential.  If you use outdated job search methods or advice, you'll appear to be outdated yourself.  Keep up, stay relevant and use the Social Media tools out there to your advantage.  You'll get that job, you just have to make sure you're looking for it in the 21st Century.

How to Find Out Which Companies Are Hiring

Most people on the hunt for a new job or position all look in the same, usual places.  But there are better, more efficient ways to find where the jobs are.  And, if you do it right, it can lead you to a conversation with the actual person who is hiring.  Forget about posting your resume to the big job boards.  Even if you get a call from a recruiter, chances are they haven't really read it and don't have a lead on a job for you.  They're just trying to build up their database.  Work smarter toward finding your next opportunity and try these tactics.

Related:  Less Well Known Job Listings

Your local Chamber of Commerce is a great resource for information on the businesses in your area.  Most have a website that lists all their members.  Some will contain information about the type of business, as well as a link to their website.  Take a look, you'll be surprised at the businesses in your own community that you never even knew about.  Give the Chamber of Commerce a call and ask if they know of any businesses hiring and mention specifically the companies you're interested in.  Frequently, either a company has told the Chamber directly that they're looking to hire for open positions or someone working at the Chamber has heard about it through their networking channels.  This is a great way to find out who's hiring and get the name and number of someone at the company to contact. Don't apply online, even if it's offered. Call first, have some questions about the company and the position ready and then ask what the best way to apply would be. Chances are, the person will just have you send your resume to them directly which greatly increases your probability of an interview.  

You've heard me say this before, but seriously, go to Twitter.  Find companies that you want to work for and follow them.  If you comment on their tweets or retweet for them, they'll start to notice you.  Make sure everything you tweet on your account is professional and focused on demonstrating your expertise.  When they do tweet openings, reply with a question.  You'll get a response, there's always a person on the other end of a Twitter account.  But if you've been interacting with them prior to asking about a job, they'll already be familiar with you and much more likely to engage in a conversation outside of Twitter. And once that happens, you're already half-way to your interview.

Related:  Questions to Ask During an Interview

Most companies have a business page on LinkedIn.  Look it up and follow them. They'll list open positions on the company page and will give instructions on the best way to apply.  Even better, LinkedIn will show you how you're connected to people at the company, even if they aren't directly in your network.  You'll see second degree connections and who you have in common.  If you're interested in a position, take a look at who could introduce you to someone in the company. Once introduced, have questions ready about the company and the position. After you've communicated with your new friend a couple of times, ask if they could recommend someone involved in the hiring process that you could speak with. Once you're in touch with actual people you're much more likely to be invited to interview.  People like to work with people they know, it's less of a risk.  

Just finding a job in this competitive market is more difficult than it's ever been before.  And if you're in a higher level position, the only way to advance is to move to another company.  There are ways to position yourself for the greatest probability of success.  The main thing is to get yourself out there talking to and connecting with actual people.  The internet is a great resource, but you can't rely on that alone.  The greatest resource is still other people.  Which is great, talking to people is more fun than submitting resumes all day.  And you get better results, too.

Networking and Online Dating

A question I'm asked frequently is how to network.  I've written other articles about how to grow, access and use your network online while you're looking for a job.  But I've left out the most important part.  How to actually talk to other people when you're meeting in person. Networking is all about building relationships. It's very much not about what everyone else can do for you.  But it is very much about what you can do for each other.  Remember, this is a two-way street.  But first, you have to get started and actually speak to each other.

Related:  Using Your Network to Find a Job

Last week I was having a conversation with other business owners about the importance of networking. A few people mentioned how chatting up strangers can be difficult, even when it's during an event and that's what you're supposed to be doing.  I made a stupid joke (surprising, I know) about my unsuccessful online dating experiences having at least given me a lot of practice making conversation with strangers.  People laughed, they're very polite, but I realized it wasn't really a joke.  My fairly ridiculous online dating exploits had actually prepared me really well for in-person networking.  They also gave me some pretty funny stories, but that's for another blog.



The main reason networking is so challenging is that most of us really don't want to go talk to people. We want to talk to the people we already know.  Talking to strangers is uncomfortable and it's human nature to avoid discomfort.  But just because something is uncomfortable doesn't mean it has to be unpleasant.  Take getting into a hot tub.  Typically the temperature is pretty high so you have to ease into it slowly, bit by bit.  But once you're there, nothing feels better than relaxing into the heat.  Chatting up strangers can be like that, if you ease into it. Rather than being painful, it can actually be fun.  But there's a trick to doing it successfully.

Related: Networking Basics

The key to successful relationship building, whether you're building your networking or on a date with someone you met online, is to ask about the other person.  And actually listen to the answer.  That's it.  It's pretty simple.  When I'd go on these blind dates I always asked about them, first.  I'd throw out a couple of follow up questions, a few "how interesting, tell me mores" and then I could sit back and enjoy my drink.  Frequently that was the only thing I was enjoying.  But networking is more fun.  Once you get someone talking, the rest is easy.  You just have to stand there and listen.  And as opposed to a date, you don't have to worry that this person is going to want to come home with you.  You also don't have to worry about saying the right thing to impress them, or show how smart you are. Just stand there with your mouth shut.  Listening is the fastest way to get people to like you.  And we all want to help people we like.

Sometimes you are going to find yourself in a situation where the other person drones on incessantly about themselves.  Even though it's a little bit your fault because, hey, you asked, you don't have to submit yourself to it for too long.  Unfortunately, when in a networking or professional situation, excusing yourself to the bathroom and convincing the waitstaff to sneak you out isn't an option. But you can get out of it gracefully.  When it's obvious you're not needed for the conversation, wait for the other person to take a breath and break in.  Thank them for their time and tell them how interesting they are.  Take their card and say how nice it was to meet them.  And then indicate vaguely toward someone else and say you need to catch up with them before they leave, and walk away.  And do it all with a smile.  This is about building relationships, after all.  Not about indulging one person's love of their own voice.  Just make sure you're not that person and you'll have a great time.  

Meeting new people and building your network can be fun.  Most people you meet are really very nice and interesting to talk to.  Just like with any skill, the more you practice, the easier it gets.  I never used to look forward to large groups of people and talking to strangers.  It was my least favorite thing to do.  But the idea being dateless and dying alone (ok, a bit dramatic) motivated me out of my comfort zone.  I really enjoy meeting new people and I value the connections I've made and the relationships I've built. And if I can grow to enjoy it and be successful at it, so can you.  I promise.  You just have to get out there.

The Right Answer for Weird Interview Questions

I had an interview once where I was asked to answer a riddle.  I don't remember what the riddle was, just that I thought it was stupid.  I started working it out by speaking my thought process out loud.  I actually figured it out (still thought it was stupid).  The interviewer told me no one else had figured it out and most people didn't take it seriously and refused to answer.  I didn't care.  I was there to interview for a job and I was irritated that they were wasting my time.  I must be very charming when I'm annoyed because I got the job.  I learned later that it was the way I answered the riddle that helped me stand out.  Not that I had gotten it right, although that helped, but because of how I went about answering.

Related:  Questions You Should Ask the Interviewer

Being asked seemingly ridiculous questions during an interview can seem pointless and be frustrating. What kind of tree would I be?  Are you kidding me?  But as stupid as these kinds of questions sound, they actually serve a pretty good purpose.  A weird question can give the interviewer quite a lot of insight into the job candidate, depending on how the person answers.


The trend toward these types of questions really caught hold when Microsoft famously asked job candidates, "Why are manhole covers round?".  I feel bad for the first person to hear this one.  Have you ever given it any serious thought?  I hadn't until I read an article about the question.  If you want to know why, take a look at the story on Wikipedia.  Don't be lazy, go read it.  A couple of other good ones are "How many cars are in the US?" and "What superhero would you be?".  The last one I've actually thought about and would have fun answering but the number of cars in the US?  Seriously?

Related: Get Your Resume Seen

The point of these questions isn't to be funny or to waste time.  No one really cares how many cars there are (ok, Detroit might) or what superhero you pretend to be in your head.  It's not so much what you answer but in how you answer.  Even if it's not a question like these but just one that you don't know the answer to, your best bet is to start reasoning it out by talking out loud.  Talk your way through the problem so they can understand your process.  This shows you're actually trying, taking it seriously and can demonstrate how creative and smart you are.  You probably don't know how why a manhole cover is round but you can probably think of a few reasons it might be.  

The purpose of an interview isn't so much about finding out if you have the required skills, they figure you do or they wouldn't be talking to you.  It's more about learning how you think, work and how well you'll fit in.  Which, really, is more important.  Many of the skills can be taught but a good sense of humor, critical thinking and creativity can't.  You have to bring those.  So don't keep your reasoning to yourself, talk it through.  And once you get hired, you may already have a cool new nickname.  Or not, depending on your answer to the superhero question.