If you feel the job markets feels slower than it did a few years ago, you’re not wrong. 2025 brought chaos in the form of massive layoffs, restructuring, slowed or nonexistent hiring, and overall stagnantatnon. Recent national reporting from ABC News reinforces what many job seekers and employees are experiencing firsthand – more layoffs and
According to 2025 hiring data, referral candidates remain 7–10x more likely to be hired than cold applicants. That single statistic proves why a networking strategy is incredibly essential. And yet, many professionals still rely primarily on job boards and online applications, even as that process becomes increasingly discouraging. What the Data Says Multiple 2025 reports
I recently established an Accountability Partner (AP) and it’s been quite the journey already. At first, I was excited to have someone to share my goals with, to celebrate progress and stay on track. And it worked! For a while, I was happily hitting my goals and feeling motivated. Then came the day where I
If you’ve recently stumbled across a job that seemed too good to be true, you’re not alone. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), job scams have surged nearly 19% in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year. Even more concerning? Many of these fake listings are showing up
I’m excited to share that I’ve earned the Certified Digital Branding Strategist (CDBS) designation through Career Thought Leaders. As a certified resume writer and coach who’s passionate about delivering tangible value for my clients, investing in this advanced certification was a natural next step. The program deepens my expertise in helping professionals define, articulate, and
Key takeaways of this article how skills are the new degrees: Skills Over Degrees: Employers are prioritizing practical skills and real-world accomplishments over traditional educational credentials. Perform a Skill Audit: Identify your strongest technical, soft, and industry-specific skills to clearly showcase your value. Quantify Achievements: Use specific, measurable examples of your accomplishments to effectively illustrate
Let’s face it, searching for a new job while unemployed is draining. There’s the natural highs of hearing from a recruiter/hiring manager to the lows of a rejection letter. Due to this, it’s hard to stay on task. Or maybe it’s easy as it consumes your thoughts day and night. What I recommend is to
Have you noticed LinkedIn’s 3 contributions recommendation to increase your visibility and the weekly sharing tracker? This is a straightforward focus that encourages you to post, comment, or contribute to collaborative articles – but for what purpose? By following this suggested framework, you can enjoy higher algorithmic priority, stay top-of-mind within your network, build your
For many of you, it’s that time of year again – performance review season and what tends to be a common question, how to ask for a higher raise after your review. Typically, we see an uptick in reviews during January/Q1 to match more company’s fiscal year. If you believe your recent performance review merits
As you have likely guessed, LinkedIn puts heavy importance on using keywords in your LinkedIn profile. With 1B members throughout 200 countries on LinkedIn it’s critical to know how to ensure your profile is optimized so you stand out and can be found. One of the best ways to achieve this is through a strategic,
When is the best time to update your LinkedIn profile? Right now! I advocate always having an up-to-date profile as it’s crucial to be found. Find below the 2025 LinkedIn profile character limits are for each of the sections. Please note: Character counts include everything: spaces, letters, digits, symbols, etc. BASIC PROFILE INFORMATION: – First
As a certified professional resume writer and coach, I’ve seen firsthand how shifts in technology, economic conditions, and employer expectations can rapidly change the job market and a job seekers success. Kicking off the new year, I thought I would pen an article on what the job market could look like for 2025 and how
The job search landscape is evolving rapidly, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this transformation. As technology continues to advance, AI is becoming an invaluable tool for job seekers, offering innovative ways to find and secure employment. From enhancing your job search process to preparing for interviews and expanding your professional network,
As a career expert, LinkedIn is one of my favorite platforms for job searching due to its unparalleled ability to connect professionals and opportunities while minimizing the noise of unrealistic opportunities. Today, job seekers need more than just a polished resume; they need a dynamic and engaging online presence, and a job searching strategy that
The Perfect Length for a Cover Letter: Keep It Concise and Impactful As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, I recommend that your cover letter length be no longer than one page or 400 – 500 words. In today’s fast-paced world, hiring managers and recruiters often do not have the time or inclination to read lengthy
With so much information out there, it can be challenging to know what’s correct when it comes to how to list professional references. Some sources advise including them directly on your resume, while others suggest waiting until they are requested. This conflicting advice leaves you trying to figure out what the best approach is. In
The landscape of resume writing continuously evolves, and in 2024, the need to stand out through impactful language is more critical than ever which is why I’ve posted the strong verbs to use in your resume. The right verbs can breathe life into your achievements, ensuring they are compelling and memorable. Here are some trending
There’s a pressing question that’s constantly being asked today: Can AI Write My Resume? As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to creep into various aspects of our lives, from personal assistants to automated customer service, its potential help with your job search has become a hot topic. In my opinion, while AI offers impressive capabilities in
Today, the best job searching sites are more than just boards for postings; they are comprehensive platforms that cater to a multifaceted career search and development process. From improving your digital presence on LinkedIn to diving into the detailed employer insights on Glassdoor, these platforms offer a amazing tools to support your career goals. In
When considering how many jobs should you list on a resume, it’s not just a question of quantity, but a strategic selection to align with the job description and elevate your interest with a potential employer. A resume is more than a mere list of your work history with all of your previous jobs; it’s
In the dynamic landscape of 2024, flexible work from home jobs have surged to the forefront of the employment scene, offering unparalleled adaptability and autonomy. This year shows signs that although in-person and hybrid are starting to re-take demand, there are still remote and project-based roles that have become a mainstay in our global economy.
In the dynamic world of project based work, in my opinion, 2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal year. A blend of economic shifts and corporate restructuring, as forecasted by Forbes, is steering a significant number of professionals towards independent, project-focused roles. This trend emerges as a beacon of adaptability, allowing both individuals and
Understanding how to list professional memberships and affiliations is a key aspect of crafting a compelling resume. For job seekers, these memberships (of course, including board membership) are a great way to showing commitment to professional development, leadership skills, and connection to your industry. In this guide, we will cover the steps necessary to effectively
Mastering how to put publications on a resume (or CV – curriculum vitae) can be a game-changer in your job search. This skill is especially crucial for professionals in fields where having publications plays a pivotal role. Including well-chosen publications on your resume can significantly elevate your profile. It showcases your expertise and contributions to
When embarking on the path to higher education or stepping into the job market, understanding the “statement of purpose vs cover letter” distinction is not just beneficial—it’s essential. This article aims to demystify these two critical documents, highlighting their unique purposes and guiding you on how to craft each one effectively. While both are pivotal
Finding the best jobs for reentering the workforce can be tough. Especially if are you thinking about reentering the workforce after a significant break! Whether you’ve been a stay-at-home parent, taken time off for personal reasons, or paused your career for other commitments, returning to work in 2023 offers exciting and fulfilling opportunities. This comprehensive
Navigating the intricacies of professional networking on LinkedIn often hinges on one key activity: managing your invitations. Knowing “how to see sent invitations on LinkedIn” is crucial in this context, as it not only helps you keep track of your pending connections but also provides insight into your network expansion efforts. This fundamental aspect of
Understanding the nuances between a “cover letter vs letter of intent” is crucial for job seekers aiming to make a strong impression on potential employers. While both documents play pivotal roles in the job application process, they serve distinct purposes and cater to different scenarios. A cover letter often accompanies a job application, directly responding
In the dynamic landscape of online job platforms, the debate of Glassdoor vs LinkedIn emerges as a critical consideration for both job seekers and employers. These two platforms stand as titans in the world of work, each offering unique tools and insights that can significantly influence career trajectories and recruitment strategies. As we embark on
When embarking on a job search or considering a new job offer, understanding the distinction between “base salary vs total compensation” is crucial. This knowledge not only empowers you to make informed decisions about your career but also equips you with the tools to negotiate effectively. Base salary, the fixed amount you see on your
Finding the best jobs for young adults is a key step in life. It’s not just about making money. It’s about building a career and growing as a person. In today’s world, young people want jobs that give them more than just a paycheck. They want jobs that offer a good future. Why High-Paying Jobs
Finding the best jobs for pregnant moms is hard because it not only can help ensure financial stability but also contributes to your overall well-being during this transformative period. Pregnancy brings with it a unique set of challenges in the workplace, ranging from the need for more frequent breaks to navigating the complexities of maternity
How to cancel a LinkedIn request is a common question for many users. LinkedIn is key in professional networking. It connects people from various fields. This social media platform is vital for business growth, job searches, and network building. But managing invites can be tricky. This is especially true for pending invitations or reconsidered connection
Do you know how to View Your LinkedIn Profile as Others See It? In this article my goal is to provide you with some greater knowledge not only on how to see your profile appears but also additional helpful features that are a must know! If you’ve read my other articles on LinkedIn, you will
Navigating LinkedIn, the premier professional network is crucial for modern career development, and knowing how to delete interests and manage your profile is thereby critical! With over 950 million users, it’s pivotal to keep your LinkedIn profile—a reflection of your professional life—concise and current. For those of you who just want to know how and
Hey there, former teachers! Thinking about a new job? You’re in the right spot as we dive into the best jobs for ex-teachers. This guide is all about finding a job that makes you as happy as teaching did. Let’s talk about how your teacher skills are actually superpowers for lots of jobs. Why Switch
AsIn the digital era, learning how to add Github to LinkedIn represents the intersection of social media profiles and professional portfolios, especially for those in the technical realm. For software developers, engineers, and data scientists, showcasing your prowess goes beyond a polished resume or an engaging cover letter; it’s about demonstrating your expertise through the
Books on personal branding are invaluable in today’s digital age, offering essential guidance for carving out a unique professional identity. Key figures like Seth Godin inspire us to become indispensable, Dorie Clark teaches the art of reinvention, and Donald Miller shows how to craft compelling brand narratives. These authors don’t just share knowledge—they equip us
In the bustling world of careers and vocations, it often seems like the extroverts take center stage—thriving on the energy of others and seizing the spotlight with ease. But what about those of us who find strength in solitude and excel in the quieter corners of professional life? I know that introverts possess unique talents
Do you know how to repost on LinkedIn? This is a common question many professionals ponder as they navigate the bustling world of this premier networking platform. With millions vying for visibility, reposting emerges as a potent tool to amplify your messages and engage with a broader audience. In this guide, we’ll unpack the how
“Are cover letters still relevant in today’s fast-paced, digital-centric job market?” It’s a question that many job seekers grapple with as they prepare their applications. Cover letters, once the cherished opportunity to make a lasting first impression, now stand at a crossroads of debate. While some argue that they’ve lost their luster, overshadowed by sleek
Navigating the nuances of “How to Add a Resume to LinkedIn” is an essential skill for professionals in today’s digital age. LinkedIn, as a premier professional platform, is a beacon for recruiters, networking enthusiasts, and industry peers alike. Uploading your resume adds a deeper layer of professionalism, affording you a significant advantage in showcasing your
In today’s fast-paced career world, understanding how to build a strong professional network is more crucial than ever. It’s not just about having a lengthy contact list but fostering genuine connections that can propel you forward. With the right strategies, you can unlock doors to job opportunities, mentorships, and invaluable knowledge exchanges. Dive into this
“What to Say to a Recruiter on LinkedIn After Applying” – it’s a question that often lingers in the minds of job seekers after they’ve hit that ‘apply’ button. You’ve poured your efforts into crafting the perfect application, and now you’re plunged into the waiting game. In the vast digital expanse of LinkedIn, making your
“Are LinkedIn Messages Private?” It’s a question on many professionals’ minds, and rightly so. In short, yes, your LinkedIn messages are designed to be private between you and the recipient. But, as with anything digital, there are layers of nuance to understand. LinkedIn stands as the pinnacle of professional networking, and in an era where
“How to Check if My Resume Is ATS-Friendly” is a question that should be on every modern job seeker’s mind. Why? Because ATS, or Applicant Tracking Systems, are the gatekeepers between your resume and a hiring manager’s desk. Here’s your quick takeaway on why ATS compatibility is non-negotiable: Job Visibility: An ATS-friendly resume increases your
Knowing how to delete a resume from LinkedIn is critical to ensure that your profile is kept up-to-date and accurate. LinkedIn, as we know, is the leading platform for professional networking and career development, and an updated resume there not only highlights your latest achievements but also ensures you remain relevant in your industry. There
In today’s professional landscape, having the soft skills employers want is becoming increasingly pivotal to getting a job and advancing your career. While the term “soft skills” might sound nebulous, these personal attributes, communication strengths, and interpersonal talents truly set candidates apart. Unlike the quantifiable, job-specific hard skills, soft skills offer universal value, playing a
“Is Grammarly Premium worth it?” … With the rise of digital communication, the quality of one’s writing can significantly influence perceptions, and Grammarly has emerged as a favored tool that can enhance your writing and give you a competitive edge. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean the premium version is the right fit for everyone. To
“How to Prepare for a Virtual Interview” is a burning question as face-to-face interviews transition to virtual, mastering the nuances of virtual interactions is more vital than ever. While some aspects of traditional interviews remain unchanged, virtual interviews present their unique set of challenges: Setting the stage: Choosing the right location and background. Technical readiness:
“What does top applicant mean on LinkedIn?” Simply put, it’s a badge signaling that a user’s qualifications closely match a job’s requirements. As LinkedIn continues to be a go-to platform for job seekers, understanding the “Top Applicant” feature can give candidates a distinctive edge in a competitive market.
LinkedIn Recommendation Templates make it easy and quick to write amazing endorsements for your network. Recommendations act as crucial testimonials, shedding light on one’s abilities and work ethic directly from colleagues or superiors. Writing the perfect recommendation, however, isn’t always straightforward. That’s where these templates come into play, guiding you toward impactful and genuine testimonials.
“What is Grammarly?” Well in today’s fast-paced digital era, where written communication stands at the forefront, tools that streamline and perfect our writing are invaluable. Enter Grammarly, an innovative writing assistant tailored for this very purpose. So, what is Grammarly exactly? At its core, Grammarly is a cutting-edge tool designed to elevate the quality of
This article will provide Open to Work LinkedIn Post Examples that you can use as a starting point for your own post on LinkedIn, but first, we must understand what LinkedIn’s ‘Open to Work’ feature is and how to use it. LinkedIn’s ‘Open to Work’ feature signals to recruiters and connections that you’re actively seeking
LinkedIn serves as a vital tool for professionals across the globe, connecting us to opportunities and industry experts. A feature you might be familiar with is the “Open to Work” badge. While beneficial, you may find yourself wanting to know how to turn off Open to Work on LinkedIn. Whether for privacy or other reasons,
LinkedIn profile optimization is the art and science of structuring your LinkedIn profile to maximize visibility, engagement, and professional appeal. Whether you’re networking, job hunting, or building your brand, the stakes are high, and the rewards for getting it right are significant. In this article, we’ll explore: The Importance of a Good LinkedIn Profile Picture:
Understanding how to use LinkedIn for networking isn’t just an advantage; it’s a necessity in today’s digitally-driven career landscape. With over 900 million users worldwide, LinkedIn serves as a vital hub for connecting with industry professionals, seeking employment opportunities, and building your personal brand. This article aims to guide you on leveraging LinkedIn to its
Using the right job search strategies can be the key element of landing your dream job. Understanding various methods of job searching is no longer a luxury but a necessity. From traditional networking to the modern utilization of online platforms, these strategies encompass a range of tactics tailored to the unique needs of each job
What is career coaching? Simply put, career coaching is a partnership formed between a certified coach and a client – be it an individual or a group – aimed at helping the client achieve their professional objectives. In this article I’ll dive deeper into the various aspects of career coaching, revealing how it can be
Preparing for a career coaching session is critical to get the most out of it. Preparation involves understanding the purpose of career coaching, conducting a self-assessment, defining your goals, and coming ready with questions and necessary documents. In this article, we’ll dive into each of these aspects, providing you with guidance on how to maximize
“Questions to Ask a Career Coach” is the cornerstone topic of today’s article. By asking the right questions, such as: “How can I make my job applications stand out?” “What are common interview questions I should prepare for?” “What steps should I take if I want to change industries?” “How can I negotiate for a
Do I need a professional summary on my resume? To answer the question directly… it depends. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as the decision to include a professional summary depends largely on your individual career circumstances. For some, a professional summary can be a powerful tool that grabs the attention of hiring managers right off the
Crafting the perfect salary negotiation email is definitely an art, but in this article, we will cover all aspects to ensure you are as prepared as possible. We will dive into understanding your worth, the key parts of a salary negotiation email, and all things related! This is a key skill that can significantly impact
Executive job searches and strategies require adaptability as a cornerstone principle. The job market for executives is increasingly complex, demanding a strategic approach that encompasses doing more than just the conventional methods. The competition for leadership roles has escalated due to the limited position availability, coupled with the dynamic nature of business landscapes, technological advancements,
Welcome to the exciting world of LinkedIn formatting! As professionals seeking to stand out in the digital marketplace, it’s crucial that we utilize every tool at our disposal. One often overlooked but incredibly impactful method is through enhancing your LinkedIn profile using symbols/bullets. This not only improves readability but also adds a unique flair to
It’s here… the 75 Best Action Words to use on your resume in 2023!! Having a robust and polished resume is more crucial than ever in this competitive job market. One key aspect of a standout resume is the use of Action Words, Action Verbs, or Resume Action Verbs (however you may phrase it!) These
On LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking site, your profile serves as your digital introduction. It’s the first point of contact you have with potential employers, clients, or professional contacts. In this realm, your LinkedIn profile photo acts as your digital handshake and first impression. Therefore, it’s vital to understand the importance of not only
Is LinkedIn Premium worth it for job seekers? This is a question I find myself answering frequently as I partner with clients. For the most part, my answer is a definite yes! It is a no if you are unwilling to optimize your profile and be active on the platform. LinkedIn Premium is almost always
In the world of job hunting, a professional resume is your passport to securing an interview. As such, the importance of carefully crafting your resume cannot be overstated. However, with an array of experiences, skills, and qualifications to showcase, resume writing can seem like a daunting task. How can you effectively condense your professional journey
As an experienced business leader, you understand that executive level interview questions and answers you formulate are much more challenging. This transition from mid-level management often results in an interview process that is quite a bit different than you’ve experienced before. To learn more about the typical process, check out my article on Preparing for
In the world of interviews, there exists a question that holds untapped power: “Do you want to tell us anything else about yourself?” It might seem simple on the surface, but it’s an open-ended invitation to highlight the unique skills and experiences that set you apart from other candidates. However, don’t mistake this for an
Navigating the professional world requires tools that showcase your skills and experiences. One such essential tool is a master resume. This comprehensive document serves as a detailed record of your professional journey, encompassing all your achievements, skills, qualifications, certifications, and educational background. A well-crafted comprehensive resume is the cornerstone for tailoring specific, impactful resumes for
Being in the job market often brings along some nerve-wracking moments. A common scenario we all face is waiting anxiously for feedback after a recruiter has reached out to you about your dream role and you’ve had that first interview. When and how to ask a recruiter for an update is of topmost concern. If
Preparing for an executive interview is critical in today’s challenging and competitive market. Navigating this high-stakes process requires more than just highlighting your professional journey; it demands showcasing your leadership skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability in the face of challenges. This article is here to assist you, with best practices for executive job interviews, using
Knowing how to optimize your LinkedIn profile for job search success is essential in the ever-evolving digital landscape of career opportunities. If you’re seeking new opportunities, LinkedIn is more than just an online resume – it’s a powerful platform that connects you with potential employers and helps you stand out in the competitive job market.
In our ever-changing world, more and more people are taking up contract positions which leads to the question, how to list contract work on your resume. Contract work includes jobs like freelancing, consulting, and temporary roles. If you have worked in these areas, it’s important to know how to showcase this experience on your resume.
The importance of personal branding in your job search is critical. But your first question may be, what is it? You know how we love certain brands because they’re special or are meaningful? It could be our favorite cookie brand that’s just the right amount of sweet, or our favorite shoe brand that makes running
The STAR Method, an impactful strategy often utilized in behavioral interviewing, serves as a robust tool for hiring managers to probe into a candidate’s past experiences, with the objective of predicting their potential performance and behavior in the role they’re applying for. Behavioral interviewing is a technique commonly used by hiring managers to explore a
A resume is often the first impression potential employers have of you which is why it is important that you know the best way to address employment gaps and career changes in your resume. It serves as your professional snapshot, showcasing your skills, experiences, and suitability for the opportunity you applied for. However, for many
It is important to showcase your skills and accomplishments on your resume for your potential employer to quickly see and understand your background and ability to deliver results. Whether you’re just stepping onto the career ladder or you’re a seasoned professional eyeing that next move, your resume is the key to opening the door. Your
If you’re a job-seeking professional, writing effective and compelling cover letters may be the key to landing in front of a hiring manager interviewing for your dream job. This article is designed to be your guide, your step-by-step blueprint to creating a cover letter that leaves a powerful and lasting impression. Firstly, let’s address the
In the dynamic sphere of talent acquisition, the traditional process of recruitment often plays out as a waiting game, with accomplished professionals pitted against the competition in the bid to secure their next role. However, the landscape of job hunting is evolving, marked by the strategic adoption of ‘reverse recruiting.’ This innovative approach reshapes the
Tailor your resume for any industry or job role. What does this mean!? In today’s competitive job market, it’s important that you customize your resume so you grab the attention of hiring managers, pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), and ultimately land an interview. With so many candidates vying for the top spot on the
Creating an ATS-friendly resume is a crucial first step in today’s competitive job market. With numerous companies employing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to manage job applications, your ability to create a resume that these systems can easily parse and favorably rank can significantly impact your job prospects. These powerful software systems can determine whether your
A resume serves as a crucial document that can significantly influence the trajectory of your career. It helps you show companies why they should hire you, why recruiters should be interested in you, and when networking, helping those understand your comprehensive background of experience. If your resume does not meet the expected standards of quality
Are you looking to make a move and land your dream job in 2023? Your resume is the key to unlock the door to new career opportunities. With competition in the job market being fiercer than ever, it’s crucial to create a standout resume that impresses employers. In this article, I’ll share the latest resume
In today’s competitive job market, crafting a polished, powerful, and persuasive executive resume is more important than ever. As a high-level professional, you understand that your resume is not just a summary of your work history, but a critical tool for showcasing your unique value proposition, personal brand, and leadership qualities. With the increasing demand
Writing a resume can be a daunting task but armed with 10 powerful resume keywords will help you take your resume from average to amazing. Every professional resume writer has a list of all-time favorite words. Generally these words spell ‘success’ and when used correctly, not only capture the reader but also shares a story.
Professional Resume Writer, Kerry Gustafson, earns Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) certification. Minneapolis, MN – May 8, 2013 Simply Great Resumes, a Minneapolis, MN based professional resume writing company is excited to announce that Kerry Gustafson, Owner and Chief Resume Writer pursued and obtained Certified Professional Resume Writer status from PARW/CC (Professional Association of Resume
Kerry Gustafson of Simply Great Resumes awarded membership with the NRWA. For Immediate Release: MINNEAPOLIS, MN.—Apr. 9, 2013—Owner Kerry Gustafson of Simply Great Resumes, a professional resume writing company based in Minneapolis MN, has been awarded membership of The National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA). Gustafson said, “It is an honor to be associated with the
Minneapolis, MN – March 19, 2013 – Simply Great Resumes, a Minneapolis-based professional resume writing company, announced today that they have sought out and received approval to become a member of PARW/CC – Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches, joining an elite group of professional resume writers. By becoming a member of PARW/CC, Simply