But don’t despair—there are things you can do to protect yourself from a layoff. Taking proactive steps can increase your chances of keeping your job even if the worst happens.

10 Tips to Help You Weather a Corporate Downsizing

1. Keep a Positive Attitude

It may be difficult, but try to keep things in perspective. When layoffs are looming, keeping a positive attitude is more important than ever. Plus, being the negative one at work is never a good idea. Not only does it make you less productive, but it can also damage relationships with your colleagues.

Gossiping about impending layoffs will only worsen the situation and could even get you fired. So, instead of spreading rumors and negativity, be the one who brings people together. Offer support to your colleagues, and help to create a positive working environment.

2. Stay Focused on Your Work Goals

It’s natural to feel worried about a possible layoff, especially if you’ve seen coworkers getting let go. However, staying focused on your job and not letting fear get in the way of your work is more essential than ever before.

Your boss will likely notice if your performance starts slipping, putting you at greater risk of being the next out the door. Instead, try to stay calm and focused, and do your best to beat your deadlines with exceptional work.

This is the time to go above and beyond in the quality of your work. Ensure that everything that leaves your desk is polished. Showing that you’re a valuable employee will make it more likely that you’ll be able to keep your position during a downsizing. Don’t let the fear of a layoff get in the way of doing your job well.

3. Be Flexible

During tough times, companies may need to make changes quickly. Be prepared to be adaptable and take on new responsibilities if necessary.

Consider acting as if you’re in a short-term contract or internship. If you were trying to land a job, you’d most likely be willing to let go of some ego or adapt to new things.

As companies are restructuring, managers are in a constant state of consideration. How you adapt to change and take on new roles matters now more than ever.

4. Put Your Best Foot Forward Every Day

Tying into that tip, ensure that your managers see you as someone who takes their job seriously.

Rather than give into familiarity and push the envelope on the dress code, ensure you’re dressing for success. And if you weren’t already, now is the time to show up five minutes early and always be prepared for meetings.

5. Offer Solutions

Have you noticed areas where teamwork could be streamlined to create more time, cost savings, or a more efficient process? Don’t be afraid to speak up and offer unique insights. It would be excellent to be seen as an innovative thought leader.

And that might be precisely what upper leaders are looking for in the team that will remain on and help build the company’s new vision.

6. Be a Team Player

Now is not the time to put your own interests first—work collaboratively with others to get through this tough time. That will be in the company’s best interests and will help you to stand out in a positive way to your managers.

If you have a coworker that is especially challenging, try to remember that they are probably experiencing the same worries that you are. Don’t allow situations to escalate. Instead, find constructive ways to communicate more effectively and highlight your leadership skills.

7. Keep Your Skills Up to Date

Ensure you’re keeping your skills sharp and keeping up with industry trends. Now is an excellent time to consider how you can add more experience and knowledge to benefit your career and the company.

Not only will this set you up for success if you are laid off, but it will make you more beneficial in the eyes of management.

8. Focus on Networking

Your professional network can be a valuable resource when you are concerned about your job security. Not only can it give you an advantage in the job market if you are laid off, but it will also help you to be seen as an industry expert.

This is especially true if you are part of any networking groups that members of management are also involved in. When you add thoughtful and relevant insights to industry conversations they may encounter, it will reinforce that you are a valuable asset to the team.

9. Check In With Your Career Plan

For several reasons, now is an excellent time to check in on your progress toward your career goals.

For one, as you’re assessing your development and career goals, you might notice where you have some gaps to fill that might otherwise harm your ability to make the cut.

But also, taking some time to assess your career plan can help you put your current job in perspective. Even though getting laid off is never on anyone’s to-do list, taking time to reflect on where you are can help remind you that this job is just one in a long career.

This might be an excellent time to focus on various goals you’ve let slide, such as working remotely so you can travel or creating a better work-life balance with a flexible schedule.

You’ll also be able to start updating your resume to reflect the skills and experiences you’ve acquired during your time at this job and focus it on the next step on your journey.

10. Assess Your Finances

If you were offered a pay cut to keep your job or a different role, could you afford to accept it? What about savings to help soften the blow if you are laid off? What’s the minimum salary you need? Are you looking for a step up in responsibility and compensation?

You should take the time to answer these questions by getting a firm grasp on where you stand financially. That way, you’ll be able to give a confident answer in any scenario.

Seek Professional Help

Layoffs can be high-anxiety situations, but you can use these tips to help you make the cut. If you’re having trouble updating your resume or planning out your next career move, now is an excellent time to find a mentor or professional career counselor.

The post 10 Quick Tips to Keep You Ahead of the Layoff Curve appeared first on Job-Hunt.

Anna Wintour, the editor of Vogue magazine, said everyone should be fired at least once. Below, we discuss what to do if you’re fired and how to find your next role. 

How to Go From Fired to Hired

Getting fired can be terrifying. But it’s important to note that:

• It doesn’t diminish your professional skills.
• You still have qualifications employers find desirable.
• You can learn and grow from your mistakes.
• It will not ruin your career.

You can find a new job after being fired. Here’s how to find your next role. 

Take Time to Process Grief

Getting fired is a shock for anyone, even if you had a sense that it was coming. It may not be the best thing to hit the job boards immediately. You need to take time to process the range of emotions from being fired. 

Don’t lash out at your boss or the company on social media. If you need to cry in your bedroom, do so. Make yourself a cup of tea, go for a walk, or get together with friends. Look for productive ways to cope with the emotions of being fired. You need to take care of yourself before jumping into a new job search.

If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, please know you’re not alone. There are various mental health resources around the globe available to assist you. 

Update Your LinkedIn Profile

Once you’ve had time to process your grief, you can start searching for your next open role.

One of the most important things you can do to find a job is to create a LinkedIn profile. Ninety-five percent of recruiters use LinkedIn to find and vet candidates, so it’s an essential part of a modern job search. 

Some general best practices for LinkedIn include:

• Have a professional photo.
• Use a strategic LinkedIn headline with keywords; don’t use “seeking opportunities.”
• Fill out your profile completely to appear in more searches.
• Keep your posts professional. Remember, employers can see your activity. 

Research Employers

Most people begin their job search by scouring through job boards for hours and submitting their resume to anything that looks remotely relevant. For a more streamlined job search, it’s better to research employers first. 

Job boards like FlexJobs allow job seekers to research employers to see what positions they hire for, flexible work options offered (i.e., if the company offers hybrid jobs), and any awards or workplace accolades received. You can also follow companies, so you get alerts the minute your target companies post new job listings. 

Practice Talking About Your Firing in Interviews

You’ve applied for jobs, and you’ve got the interview. Things are looking up! While you should practice your common job interview questions, you should also prepare to talk about being fired. 

Being fired isn’t an uncommon experience, and it can happen for many reasons, from budget cuts to personality clashes. When explaining being fired to an employer, it’s important to stay positive, be honest, and focus on what you’ve learned from the experience. 

I Think I’m Going to Be Fired. What Do I Do?

Maybe you’ve been demoted, or your boss barely acknowledges you in the team meeting. You know that there’s a good chance you’ll be let go. While you can’t control the actions of your boss, there are some things you can do to prepare for being fired. 

Create an Emergency Fund

From day one of your current job, your priority should be to create an emergency fund. After losing your job, it’s likely that you won’t have a new job the next day.

While job hunting, you’ll need to be able to cover rent, groceries, student loan payments, and any other necessities. You need to save enough money to cover at least three months of expenses for you and your family.

Update Your Resume

If you haven’t been job hunting in a while, there’s a good chance you need to update your resume.

When writing your resume, include relevant skills, quantifiable achievements, and relevant jobs or volunteer experience. Before submitting your resume to an employer, proofread for grammatical or spelling mistakes. 

Work Your Network

It’s best to start networking before you need to find a new job. Fire up your connections with old colleagues, friends, or university professors. Participate in industry association meetups or conferences. 

Being Fired Isn’t the End of the Road

While it can certainly be upsetting, getting fired isn’t the end of your career. By following these steps, you can confidently land a new role with a company you love.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Going From Fired to Hired appeared first on Job-Hunt.

One of the best ways to prevent having an offer rescinded comes before you even apply. Ensure that you’re conducting thorough research and avoiding companies with a history of canceling job offers or questionable employment practices. Beyond prevention, if it’s an excellent company that you are excited to work for, you can minimize the risk with some job search best practices.

What Is a Rescinded Job Offer?

A rescinded job offer is not something that any candidate wants to hear. In most cases, a rescinded job offer results from unforeseen circumstances on the employer’s side. This could be anything from budget cuts to a change in company priorities.

Changes That Occur to the Employer

Whatever the reason, candidates need to remember that a rescinded job offer often does not reflect their skills or qualifications. Instead, it is simply a case of bad timing. That said, candidates should not hesitate to reach out to the employer to understand why the offer was withdrawn.

Changes That Occur to Your Eligibility

Sometimes, a job offer can be rescinded due to something on the candidate’s end. The most common is if the candidate was found to have been misleading on their resume or application.

In today’s competitive job market, employers are increasingly resorting to background checks, checking candidates’ social media accounts, and other screening methods to verify information that candidates provide.

If anything seems amiss, it’s not uncommon for employers to rescind their job offers. Other reasons for rescission include the candidate being unable to provide references who can vouch for their qualifications or the candidate attempting to negotiate after terms were already agreed on, which most employers feel is highly unprofessional.

In any case, it’s always best to be honest when applying for a job, as any discrepancies are likely grounds for a reversal of the job offer.

What Are the Warning Signs of a Rescinded Job Offer?

There are some warning signs that a job offer might be in jeopardy. If you notice any of these red flags during the hiring process, the employer may be having second thoughts about hiring you, and the offer might be at risk.

For example, suppose the employer asks for additional references or requests a second interview after the offer has already been extended. This could signify that they are unsure about your qualifications or that your contacts didn’t report what the employer was anticipating.

Similarly, if the employer starts to negotiate salary or benefits after they’ve already agreed, this should signal that they were not ready to make a firm offer. Some other warning signs that a job offer might be rescinded include:

• The employer is taking longer than expected to get back to you with an offer.
• The employer seems less enthusiastic about hiring you than they did during the interview process.
• The employer says the start date might be delayed or pushed back.

If you notice any of these red flags, it’s crucial to stay professional and polite and keep communication lines open with the employer. By doing so, you may be able to salvage the offer.

How to Protect Yourself From a Rescinded Job Offer

While receiving a job offer is always exciting, it’s vital to take the time to understand all the details before accepting. Beyond the job title, this includes salary, benefits, and start date.

Clarify All of the Details

Prioritize clarifying any hiring bonuses or moving stipends as well. Will they need to be repaid if you haven’t begun working with the company? Once you have a clear understanding of the complete offer, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to accept.

Ask For Everything in Writing

A verbal job offer usually precedes a formal, written agreement. Ensure that you get the offer and accept it in writing after you’ve spoken. This protects both you and the employer from any miscommunication surrounding the details of the role, salary, benefits, etc. Then, take your time to review the offer fully to ensure you’re comfortable with all aspects of the job before committing.

Respond to Requests Promptly

Finally, keep in mind that job offers are often contingent upon completing a background check or drug test carried out by an independent third party. If you are asked to undergo either of these procedures, follow through promptly. Proactively communicate and follow up if you haven’t received them, as it’s possible your contact information wasn’t conveyed correctly.

Delay Giving Notice

Typically, during a verbal offer, you and the hiring manager agree on a target start date. However, you won’t want to notify your current employer until you’ve received your written offer. Written offers frequently carry more intention and follow-through than verbal offers, as most employers won’t want to put their reputations in writing without intending to follow through.

What to Do if Your Job Offer is Rescinded

When a job offer is rescinded, it can be shocking and anxiety-inducing—similar to any job loss. All is not lost, though; there are steps you can take to possibly salvage the position.

Clarify the Decision-Making Factors

First, try to find out why the offer was rescinded. Was it due to budget cuts? Did the company hire someone else? Was there a problem with your references? If you can identify the reason, you may be able to resolve the situation with additional references or context.

Consider the Legality of the Withdrawal

Second, consider if the withdrawal was fair and valid. Most employers are at-will employers, meaning it’s not illegal for them to withdraw an offer. However, if you feel that the offer was rescinded based on discrimination, take the time to consider what information came to light directly before the agreement was withdrawn.

For example, did you notify them that you’re pregnant, and they immediately withdrew their offer? It might be wise to consult with an employment lawyer to help you determine your case’s legal validity.

Respectfully Request Job Search Assistance

Finally, if the situation was outside the employer’s control, such as the business is downsizing or going out of business, ask them to consider supporting your job search. Many employers are genuinely regretful and will be happy to provide a letter of reference or severance pay based on the financial challenges you will now face while you resume your job search.

Moving Forward With Your Career

If you are the unfortunate recipient of a rescinded job offer, take a deep breath and gather as much information as possible about why it was reversed. Do not contact the employer immediately. Instead, wait until you can discuss the withdrawal professionally and concisely. Try to reflect on what may have caused them to change their mind.

You may find that there is still an opportunity for dialogue and resolution. In any case, remember that this experience does not define you—keep your head up and stay focused on your goals.

The post Rescinded Job Offers: Why It Can Happen and What to Do appeared first on Job-Hunt.

Certified Career Coach Dawid Wiacek, Founder of Career Fixer LLC, explained to Job-Hunt that from working with his clients, he has seen firsthand that job loss can do a number on people’s sense of self-esteem and confidence—and that building up “job momentum” again can be tough.

“Job loss can be incredibly demoralizing, especially if you consider yourself to be a dedicated employee,” he said. “Even if you’ve been a slacker or were underperforming, losing a job can still present a lot of challenges, including the obvious, like not having a paycheck but also negative perceptions from family and friends who might think you’re being a ‘lazy bum.'”

While finding yourself without the professional position you’ve relied on can be disorienting and scary, the fact is that not everything about losing a job is bad. Once you’ve recovered from the initial shock of being, at least for the moment, unemployed, it’s possible to recover from job loss and emerge from it in an even better situation than before—if you know the right steps to take to get back on your feet again.

“Without exception, my clients who have lost jobs have gone to do wonderful things, whether it’s starting their own businesses, taking a (forced) sabbatical, volunteering, finding jobs that are more fulfilling, and/or being paid more than at the job they lost,” Wiacek noted.

The career coach recommended trying out the following three tactics to recover more quickly and gracefully from job loss.

Give Yourself a Brain Break 

In the initial aftermath of losing your job and in the first weeks of being without your usual routine that follow, it’s easy to spiral into anxiety, depression, or self-deprecating (false) thoughts about your lack of talent.

Wiacek suggested unplugging from these concerns temporarily by doing something that’s personally fulfilling to you, rather than plunging immediately into trying to line up new work. “Don’t think about the job search for a few weeks, or at least a few days,” he said. “Take some time off to go camping, or visit a nearby city that has been on your list.”

Go Volunteer

A smart way to get your foot in new doors right away, without needing to go through all the steps of a formal job search, is to offer your services as a volunteer at an organization you might be interested in working for.

“Volunteering will make you feel less crappy, it will put the focus on the other person or group that you’re serving, and, at worst, it will be a good distraction,” Wiacek said. Just as importantly, he added that volunteering could lead to new opportunities since you’ll be able to network organically. “Your fellow volunteers, or the admins from the organization that you’re volunteering under, will see your good deed and will (usually) gladly connect you with their professional network,” he pointed out. 

Develop New Interests, Skills, or Hobbies

The time freed up by losing a job may create a rare opportunity in your life to do something different.

Is there something you’ve thought of doing in the past but never got to explore because you were too busy working? Wiacek said that now is the time to explore alternate career pathways and pursue new training and skills—for example, by taking a class at your local community college in person or online.

A new hobby may also help get you out of a rut while potentially leading to an income stream. “It just may turn into a side hustle that pays some (or all) of your bills,” Wiacek said.

“There are plenty of stories out there of people who used a job loss to reinvent their careers toward entrepreneurship, or at the very least a career switch.”

The post How to Recover From Job Loss appeared first on Job-Hunt.

What Is “At-Will” Employment? Definition & Meaning 

At-will employment means that you and your employer are not obligated to continue your professional relationship. You can quit your job at any time without a reason, and your employer can terminate your employment at any time without a reason. Neither side is required to give advance notice that the employment relationship is ending (except in the case of a layoff under certain circumstances).

The employer, however, also has the right to change the terms of the employment relationship at any time without advance notice and generally without consequences. This includes:

• Cutting pay
• Reducing or terminating benefits
• Changing or eliminating paid time off
• Altering existing work schedules 

Am I an At-Will Employee?

Likely, yes. Outside of Montana, all states allow employment-at-will arrangements. And unless your employer has explicitly stated otherwise, you are probably an at-will employee. When in doubt, check your offer letter or the employee handbook, which should state the terms of your employment.

Limitations and Exceptions of At-Will Employment

The federal government has no rules or regulations regarding at-will employment. Individual states are free to set their own rules regarding at-will employment. However, some federal laws supersede state at-will employment laws.

Here are some of the important limitations and exceptions of at-will employment.

Workers With a Contract

Some workers are contract employees. Generally, this means there is a written contract between employer and employee that outlines the specifics of compensation, termination, and everything else regarding the working relationship. Workers in a union or those with a collective bargaining agreement are examples.

Implied Contracts

Whether or not a physical document exists, if there’s an implied contract, you are not an at-will employee. An implied contract may exist based on what the employer has said about your work relationship or through their actions (such as providing raises and annual reviews).

However, in most states, it’s up to the employee to prove the implied contract exists.

Good Faith and Fair Dealing

In some states, an employer cannot fire you “in bad faith.” For example, if you have a chronic health condition and your employer fires you because the health insurance premiums have increased for the entire company, the employer is acting in “bad faith.” 

Public Policy

Some states also have a public policy exception that prohibits employers from firing at-will employees.

For example, if an employee refuses to perform an illegal act at the employer’s direction, the worker cannot be fired. Likewise, if the employee has to report for National Guard duty, the employer cannot fire them for missing work.

Discrimination

Federal and state laws prohibit employers from discriminating against people in protected classes. This protection extends to at-will employees fired for being in one of these groups.

Retaliation

Retaliation is another exception to the at-will agreement. For example, if an employee reports wrongdoing by their employer, they cannot be fired due to their whistleblowing.

Know Your Rights

While it may seem that the employer holds all the cards in an at-will arrangement, employees are entitled to certain protections. Know your rights under an at-will work agreement and consult with an attorney for clarity and guidance.

The post At-Will Employment: What It Means and Important Exceptions appeared first on Job-Hunt.

While you can, and should, have recommendations on your LinkedIn profile, you should also have written references. Although you don’t always need them until later in the hiring process, some job postings will request that they be submitted when you apply. Your submission will be delayed if you aren’t prepared and have to wait for a response from your references.

You may even consider submitting your list of references and letters with your resume, regardless of whether they’re requested. Or perhaps, with your thank-you note after the interview. Both actions can help you stand out from other applicants.

Who Should You Ask

Former supervisors will be the obvious first choice. They have the best insight into what it was like to work with you. Supervisors can speak professionally and frankly about your work ethic and how you contributed to the team.

Outside of your supervisors, you should ask former coworkers that you collaborated with. Their perspective will endorse your soft skills from a different perspective than your managers.

Stick to Professional References

Avoid asking friends and family. Generally, employers will recognize a biased letter of reference and discount it. They’ll wonder why you couldn’t obtain a professional recommendation and have to resort to personal relationships.

Are you new to the job market? You can ask any professors, department heads, or internship supervisors that you’ve worked with. Also, consider any professionals that you may have interacted with through a social network or a volunteer opportunity.

How to Ask For a Reference Letter

Admittedly, it can be intimidating to ask someone to take the time to write a reference for you. However, you might be surprised at how willing professionals are to do so. Generally, most supervisors with whom you had a great rapport will feel proud that you’re succeeding and that they were part of your career development.

It would be best to reach out beforehand, rather than send an email out of the blue. Especially if it’s someone you haven’t been in contact with for a while, you’ll want to reconnect. Touching base will help jog their memory about specific circumstances or skills they will highlight. Ask with plenty of time, rather than expecting them to scramble at the last minute.

Follow Up With an Email

After you’ve spoken to them, you’ll want to send an email that includes your resume, cover letter, and the job posting if you’re asking for a specific reference. Let them know if there is a deadline and when you need the letter returned for you to look over. Some recruiters will request that the letter be sent directly to them. In that case, your reference may still ask you if you’d like to review it before they send it in.

If you’re reaching out to a former supervisor and couldn’t have a face-to-face conversation, you can still request one with some flattery and a few essential details.

Sample Reference Letter Requests

For inspiration, consider a template like this for your reference:

Dear Mr. Green,

I hope you’re doing well!

I am touching base because I’m currently applying for a [job title] role with [ABC Company], and part of the process is submitting letters of recommendation.

I thoroughly enjoyed working with you and felt that the skills I learned through several of the projects we collaborated on were an excellent fit for this new opportunity. For example, I thought you’d be a great person to touch on my [example skill] and [example skill], as I thought back to the great feedback you gave me after we worked on [example project] together.

Recognizing that your schedule is generally hectic, I’m happy to help in any way that I can.

The deadline for the letter is [date]. If your schedule doesn’t allow you to fit this in prior, please let me know.

I appreciate your consideration.

Best Regards,

Your Name

Phone

Email

A Slightly More Casual Template

If you’re reaching out to a supervisor or coworker that you could connect with, you can be slightly less formal. Although, you’ll still want to ensure you have all of the information included.

Hi Jessica,

I hope you are doing well today. It was great touching base with you again yesterday. I appreciate your willingness to write a letter of recommendation. To help you brainstorm, I’m including a few of the job duties that I’m tailoring my submission to, along with the projects we worked on together that I feel supported those skills.

[Example #1]
[Example #2]
[Example #3]

The deadline for submitting this is [date]. If anything comes up and you cannot complete the letter, please let me know as soon as possible.

Again, I truly appreciate it, and if I can be of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Best Regards,

Your Name

Your Phone

Your Email

Network Your Way Into a New Job

One of the best things you can do for your career is maintain your network. It’s much easier to ask for a letter of recommendation if you’re in regular contact with your references.

While you’ll want to maintain contact information for five to 10 professional references, there may come a time when you’re required to (or would like to) submit a letter of recommendation. Having a generic one on file to submit with your resume can help you land an interview.

However, if you’re specifically asked to submit one during an interview process, it’s an excellent opportunity to tailor your references for the role. The templates above will help get you started as you reach out to your network.

The post How to Ask for a Reference Letter (With Examples) appeared first on Job-Hunt.

However, writing a killer resume is part science, part art, not to mention a little bit of style. And sometimes, blending these aspects into one document that explains why the hiring manager should choose you requires some outside assistance.

What Kind of Resume Help Is There?

When it comes to finding help with your resume, there are two options: robots and humans.

Resume Generators

Resume generators (or resume builders) are bots that create a resume for you. It doesn’t do all the work, though. You fill in some blanks (like your education, experience, job duties), then the bot creates a resume with suggestions on how to improve it.

For example, under your work history, it may suggest that you start every bullet point with a different action verb. Or it may recommend that you use quantitative measures to describe not just what you did but what the result was.

Resume generators often have different templates you can choose from and are a good choice for people who have a decent resume but might need a few tips or pointers on improving it. Some bots also have a tool that compares your resume to a job posting and gives you additional suggestions on customizing your resume for that particular role.

Human Resume Writers

Then there are humans who specialize in writing resumes. These could be college counselors, career coaches, or even someone with a background in human resources.

Just like the bot, a human resume writer will make suggestions for improving your resume. And their recommendations may be very similar to the ones you get from a bot. The difference, though, is that if you’re unsure how to implement the suggestions, you can speak with the resume writer to further fine-tune and understand what you need to do.

Hiring a resume writer is great for people who find it difficult to summarize their professional history. This option is also a good route for people who don’t have strong writing skills or need more detailed advice on smoothing something over, like an employment gap.

Which Kind of Resume Help Should I Work With?

Choosing which type of resume help to use comes down to what you want to get out of the experience. Here are some things to help you decide.

Speed

The advantage of a resume generator is that you can write a resume in just a few hours. Answer some questions, fill in some blanks, make a few tweaks, and ta-da! Instant resume. 

When you have a person write your resume, you have to fill out a form, wait for the writer to read them over, maybe ask some follow-up questions, schedule an appointment, write the resume, give it to you for approval, possibly rewrite the resume, then—finally!—you have a written resume. Even if things move quickly, it will likely take at least a week for a writer to finish.

Qualifications

While resume generators are fast, how qualified are they to write your resume?

Bots can ask the right questions to get your resume started, but if you get stuck, there’s not much it can do to help you figure things out. Beyond making the initial suggestions, you can’t have a conversation with the resume generator about what comes next. You can try rewriting and reentering the information, but if it’s still “not right,” you might not get the results you want.

And bots are often limited by their programming. Though most resume advice stays the same, things can and do change, and your resume needs to change with it. If the generator is outdated or programmed by someone who doesn’t keep up with resume trends, you may end up with a resume that doesn’t get results.

Resume writers are often certified or, at least, keep up on the most recent resume trends. They don’t need to be “reprogrammed,” giving you the latest and greatest advice as it happens. 

More importantly, though, you can have in-depth conversations with your resume writer to help you figure things out. They can ask the right questions to help you get unstuck or prompt you to think about things differently.

Is It Worth It to Pay for Resume Help?

Whether a bot or a human, not all resume writing services are free. 

In general, you’ll pay for a human resume writer. Most offer a package deal that includes, for example, one initial consultation, one review session, and one rewrite. Often you get one resume that you may have to tweak on your own to tailor it for every job you apply to.

Paid resume generators can include access to additional analysis (like multiple job descriptions), more templates, or allow you to generate unlimited resumes. And some resume generators are free, making them a cost-effective solution, even if you only get basic or limited features.

If you decide it’s worth paying for a resume service, make sure you read the fine print. The reality is that even a stellar resume is no guarantee that you’ll land the interview or the job. However, if you haven’t had any luck using your current resume, you may want a professional to give your resume a once-over, and that could be worth the cost.

Where Can I Find Resume Help?

A quick internet search can find you all the resume help you need! Here are a few human and nonhuman resources to get you started:

• TopResume
• ResumeSpice
• ResumeWriters.com
• ZipJob.com
• Let’s Eat, Grandma
• FlexJobs
• Cultivated Culture
• Jobscan

A Little Help From Resume Experts

Both resume generators and human resume writers are excellent choices to help you write a resume. Which type of service you go with often comes down to price, convenience, and how much personalized attention you want.

The post How to Find Resume Help: Templates, Tools, and More appeared first on Job-Hunt.

Why It’s Important to Ask For Interview Feedback

It’s not easy to ask for feedback on anything, but it can be especially hard to ask for feedback after job rejection. However, asking for and receiving it can help your job search.

Interview feedback may help you understand where you misstepped and how you can improve your answers. And because so few applicants ask for feedback, you’ll stand out as someone willing to learn and grow from uncomfortable or negative experiences. Who knows? The next time there’s a job opening, the company may reach out to you to fill it!

Asking for feedback after an interview also gives you the opportunity to learn something about yourself. You may think you’ve done a fantastic job explaining why the employer should hire you. But as it turns out, the interviewer had no idea why they should choose you over other applicants! Maybe your answers weren’t as clear as you thought they were, or the examples you gave weren’t as relevant as you’d hoped.

Finally, you may discover that you did everything right, but someone else was slightly more qualified for the role. Maybe they have a certification you don’t have, or maybe they have one more year of experience over you. This is still valuable information, helping you size up the competition and understand what steps you may need to take to stand out in your field.

When to Ask For Feedback

Ideally, you should ask for feedback as soon as you find out you didn’t get the job.

You’ll most likely receive an email, so send your feedback request within 24 hours of receiving the rejection. If you get a voicemail, 24 hours to call back is also a good rule of thumb.

On the off chance the interviewer is calling with your rejection, and you answer the phone, the right time to ask for feedback is while you have them on the line!

How to Ask For Feedback

Whether you’re leaving a voicemail, writing an email, or speaking to someone in real time, there is a basic outline to help you ask for interview feedback.

Start by thanking the interviewer for their time and discussing the position and company with you. Then, explain that you want to learn from this rejection so you can improve. 

Ask the employer what they feel you lack or can do to improve. You can go with something broad, like, “If I were to reapply to the company in the future, what’s one thing I could do to improve my application?” Or, you could ask for something specific, such as, “Am I missing any relevant skills you need from candidates?”

End your feedback request by thanking them again or expressing gratitude for being selected for an interview and telling them you appreciate anything they can share with you.

If this is a real-time discussion, make sure you pause to give the interviewer time and space to answer you. Most people who are willing to give feedback need a moment to frame their feedback in a positive yet helpful manner.

Here is a sample feedback request to get you started.

Hi, [Interviewer Name],

Thank you for your time and telling me more about [position name or company]. 

I understand your decision, and as someone committed to continuous improvement, I’d like to ask you for some feedback. Specifically, do I lack some experience, or did I not present my qualifications clearly?

I appreciate any information you can share with me that would help me improve my job search and in my career!

Again, thank you. I really enjoyed meeting with you and the team.

Your Name

What to Leave Out of Your Feedback Request

Asking for feedback after a job rejection is courageous. However, unlike the thank-you note you send after an interview, this is not the time to reiterate why the employer should hire you.

Accept your rejection with professionalism and grace, and make sure to avoid the following when asking for feedback: 

• Trying to get the employer to change their mind
• Being obnoxious, condescending, or argumentative
• Acting desperate (“I really need this job, so please reconsider!”)
• Arguing with the feedback
• Explaining why the company is wrong for not hiring you

If You Don’t Hear Back

Many companies have a blanket policy that they do not give feedback after interviews even when an applicant asks for it. While this policy usually exists for legal reasons, some employers are simply too busy to give you feedback or don’t want to risk upsetting applicants.

The reality is that you likely won’t hear back from an employer should you ask for feedback. If you don’t hear anything after a week, forget about the request and move on to the next opportunity!

Learn and Grow

If you’re fortunate enough to get feedback from a job that rejected you, listen with an open mind! Don’t try to sway the interviewer. Instead, learn from the information, use it wisely, and integrate it into your performance going forward.

The post Should You Ask for Feedback After a Job Rejection? appeared first on Job-Hunt.

Because it’s one of the last things included in your personnel file, you want to make sure it’s as direct and professional as possible. Here’s what you should include and what you should leave out.

First Things First

Whenever you resign from a position, it’s best to do it in person, even when you work remotely. It’s considered the respectful and professional way to resign from any position, and even a phone call or video chat will suffice.

If nothing else, it’s a small world! While you may have no intention of using your current supervisor, coworker, or company as references, you never know who they know or how your name could come up in a conversation.

How To Write a Formal Resignation Letter (Template)

Of course, it may not always be possible to resign in person, so an email is your only option. And even when you have resigned in person, you’ll most likely still need to write a resignation letter. Here’s how:

Use a Clear Subject Line

Start with a clear, straightforward subject line. Though your supervisor may be surprised to see “Resignation Letter for [Your Name]” sitting in their inbox, it’s clear what the email contains.

Start Strong

Open your resignation letter with clear intentions and precise language. There are two places you can begin.

You can immediately jump into the facts: you’re resigning from your job. Clearly state your intention to quit and include your end date:

After careful thought and consideration, I’ve decided to resign from my position effective [state your last date].

Alternatively, you can open by thanking your manager and company for everything they’ve done for you during your employment:

Thank you for the opportunity to learn and grow professionally with [Company Name] over the past [length of time you’ve worked there]. I’ve learned a lot about [mention what you’ve learned or how you’ve grown] and am confident this has prepared me for the future.

No matter how you choose to start your resignation letter, include both of these sections. Even if you’re leaving your job after a negative experience, you should express gratitude and remain upbeat. Something neutral, such as “I’m grateful for my time with the company,” is better than nothing at all.

Get Down to Details

After the “main event,” get into the details about your last few weeks on the job. Explain how you will finish your projects, who you will pass things off to, and tie up any loose ends.

This is also the place to offer to train your replacement (presuming it’s allowed by your old and new company). If there’s an internal hire, you can teach that person a few things before you go. But if the company will look outside for your replacement, you can offer to answer stray questions after that person onboards.

Ask About Benefits

You may also want to include a brief section that asks about benefits (COBRA insurance, unused vacation payouts, etc.). Specifically, ask who you need to talk to in order to answer your questions. Alternatively, if you know the information comes directly from HR, you can offer to set up a meeting yourself.

Include Your Contact Information

Finally, if you’ve offered to help out after you’re gone, include your personal contact information. Even if you suspect no one will ever use it, it’s a professional and often appreciated gesture on your part.

What to Leave Out of Your Resignation Letter

Though you might be tempted to include a lot of information, resignations are generally short and to the point. Here’s what not to include in your resignation letter:

Long Explanations

Particularly if you’ve been at the company for a long time or if you’re close with your manager, you may feel you need to give a long and detailed reason why you are leaving. And while you should give some explanation, keep it as brief and as positive as possible.

For example, if you’re leaving because you are taking care of a sick family member, there’s no need to get into the details. Saying “to attend to personal matters” or “for family reasons” is often sufficient. 

Unclear Language

In some cases, people feel bad about resigning their position and don’t want to deliver the news. That can lead to them using language that softens the message, like “I think my last day will be…” But this leaves your last day open to interpretation, which could lead to problems down the line. 

No matter how you feel about your job, use precise and objective language. You don’t have to leave emotion out of it, but you should be very clear that you are resigning from the role and the date that you are leaving.

Bragging

You may be doubling your salary, getting more responsibility, or getting the ability to work from anywhere in the world, but your resignation letter shouldn’t focus on any of that. Instead, focus your letter on your time at the company, what was positive about it, and that you’re moving on.

Telling Them Off

Finally, as tempting as it might be to tell your manager exactly why you’re leaving by listing off all your complaints and concerns, skip it. Once again, it’s a small world, and even if your complaints are legitimate and valid, you never know what could come back to haunt you. If nothing else, a resignation letter should be positive and professional to help instill that image in the company’s mind.

When to Send a Resignation Letter

In the event you must resign via email, know that there really is no “right” or “wrong” day or time to send it.

Some managers prefer to receive a resignation first thing in the morning. This gives them a chance to immediately start doing whatever it is they need to—from starting the hiring process to preparing a counteroffer! Others prefer to receive it in the late afternoon or heading into the weekend, so they have time to think about what you said before responding to it.

The same goes for the date. Monday morning might be the best, but so too might be Friday afternoon. In the end, pick the time and date that works best for you and ensures you are providing at least two weeks’ notice.

Saying Your Goodbyes

Whether it’s bittersweet, going out on a high note, or you’re happy to move on, writing a resignation letter is a crucial part of any job. Use these tips to ensure your resignation letter is just as professional as you are.

The post How to Write a Resignation Letter appeared first on Job-Hunt.

“Everyone should get fired at least once in their career.”

Surprisingly,being fired or terminated from a job is not that uncommon – 1.7 million people lost their jobs in June of 2018.

Being Fired Is Not Unusual & There are Many Reasons Can Be Explained

In fact, according to a U.S. Department of Labor JOLTS report, an average of 56,000 people were laid off or fired each day, in the first half of 2018, including weekends and holidays.

Since most of us (but not all of us) in the USA are employees “at will” without laws or regulations, a labor union, or a contract protecting us, we can be fired for any reason — or for no reason at all — by our employers.

So, if you’ve been terminated or fired, you’re in good company. But that doesn’t make answering the question, “Why did you leave your last job?” any easier.

There are several reasons for being fired that can be explained:

• Being fired for poor performance
• Being fired for misconduct
• Being fired for not being a good fit
• Being fired for tardiness
• Being fired for attendance
• Being fired for personality conflicts
• Being fired for business reasons
• Being fired for no reason

Best Ways to Explain that You Were Fired (Terminated) During an Interview

It’s best to talk about the situation positively as a learning experience.

Show That You Learned from the Experience

If your departure was somewhat amicable due to the position not being a good fit, a lack of communication over job responsibilities, or failure to recognize warning signs during the interview process, it’s best to talk about it from a “sadder but wiser” perspective.

“Sadder but wiser” is also a good approach when the departure wasn’t particularly amicable.

When possible, sandwich your response between two positive statements. Don’t dwell on the experience. Answer the question, briefly and positively (examples below), and move on.

Stay Positive

As you prepare for your interview after you’ve been terminated, do your best to stay positive. Remember all the good things you have accomplished in your career and life.

Don’t beat yourself up or adopt the mind-set of nobody-will-hire-me because you’ve been fired.

Keep in mind, that most everyone you talk to has likely been terminated at least once in his/her career, or if he/she hasn’t been terminated, they know several good people who have been terminated. Being fired is a “speed bump” in your career that has happened to literally millions of people who have gone on to have great careers.

The main thing to remember is no matter how bad the situation was, don’t say anything blatantly negative about the employer. No trash talk in a job interview or networking situation.

Chalk your termination up to it being a learning experience, and take pride in the fact that you persevered through a challenging situation and did your best for as long as you possibly could.

Sample Answers to Explain Why You Were Fired

A few answers that you can provide for specific situations include:

(1)Philosophical difference or bad fit.

(Positive)
When I was originally hired as the [job title], the description and expectations of the job were very different from the job that I actually ended up doing. It was apparent from the start that there were some communication problems and philosophical differences, and I struggled early on.

(Negative)
My supervisor and I realized that it wasn’t the right fit for either one of us, and fortunately it was a cordial departure.

(Positive)
Since then, I’ve done some volunteer work, clarified my own professional goals and expectations, and worked on improving my communication skills.

(2)Disorganized work environment

(Positive)
I’m able to work independently with little supervision, and I work best in an environment when I understand what the expectations are. Even if the routine changes, if you tell me what I need to do differently, I’m happy to oblige.

(Negative)
The nature of the work I was doing in my last position didn’t suit my strengths. There was little direction from the supervisor, tasks were not explained very well, and it seemed like the place was in a constant state of flux. So things didn’t go well.

(Positive)
What I’ve learned from that experience is to try to ask more questions, clarify the requirements and expectations, make sure things are in writing, and try to make sure that I have the information I need in order to do a good job.

(3)Hostile work environment

(Positive)
I work best in a team environment, and am accustomed to being in an environment where everyone supports and encourages one another.”

(Negative)
I realized very quickly after I started working for my last employer that there was a significant amount of internal conflict within the organization and a high percentage of turnovers.

(Positive)
I performed the best that I possibly could in that situation, and many of the employees complimented me on my work ethic and skills, but in the end, it was just too difficult of an environment to overcome.

(4) Commission sales role

(Positive)
I wanted to give sales a try because I feel that it really suits my personality. I’m an outgoing person who can easily start conversations, make connections with people, and I have never meet a stranger.

(Negative)
This is a highly competitive industry and the employer and I underestimated the amount of support I would need. It took me a little longer than anticipated to build momentum and generate leads, and I just wasn’t able to make up the deficit of getting off to such a slow start.

(Positive)
I received some great sales training and advice, learned a lot of good strategies, and am thankful for that experience. However, my boss and I both realized that I would be able to perform better in a different kind of sales or business development structure.

Bottom Line with Explaining Why You Were Fired

Stay positive and confident. Learn from this experience, and move on.

More on the Transition from Fired-to-Hired:

• How Employers View You Being Fired
• Resume Example: Just Fired
• Laid Off or Fired?
• Beating the Job Search Blues

For more about handling behavioral interviews, panel interviews, and telephone interviews, as well as preparing for job interviews, see the article list on the right.

Answering the Common Job Interview Questions:

Questions About You:

• What Is Your Greatest Achievement or Accomplishment?
• Tell Me/Us About Yourself
• Why Should We Hire You?
• What Do You Want?
• Why Do You Want THIS Job?
• What Is Your Greatest Weakness?
• What Is Your Greatest Strength?
• Why Do You Want to Leave Your Current Job?
• What Is Your Current Salary?
• What Are Your Salary Expectations?
• When Can You Start?
• Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?
• Smart Strategies to Answer to Behavioral Interview Questions
  • Tell Me About a Time When You Failed
  • Tell Me About a Time When You Were Successful
  • Tell Me About a Time When You Motivated Someone
  • Tell Me About a Time When You Convinced Your Boss

Handling Special Career Situations:

• Why Did You Quit Your Last Job
• After a Layoff: Why Did You Leave Your Job?
• After Being Fired: Why Did You Leave Your Job?
• Explain Your Gap in Employment
• How Employers View You Being Fired

Questions About Them:

• What Do You Know About Us?
• How Did You Find This Job?
• Why Do You Want to Work Here?

Questions for You to Ask Them:

• Do You Have Any Questions? — choose from 50+ good questions to ask them
• 5 Absolute Must-Ask Questions for the End of Your Next Interview
• The Second Interview: 5 Key Questions to Ask
• 45 Questions You Should NOT to Ask in Job Interviews

Interview Preparation:

• 3 Steps to Interview Success: Build Your Interview Checklist
• The Winning Difference: Pre-Interview Preparation

About the author…

Beth Colley CEO/owner of Chesapeake Career Management Services has guided over 1,200 job seekers to career success since joining the careers industry in January of 2000. She is a Certified Master Resume Writer, a Certified Career Management Coach, and a Certified Brain Based Success Coach and an active member of Career Directors International, The National Resume Writers Association, and Career Thought Leaders.

The post How to Explain Being Fired During a Job Interview (with Examples) appeared first on Job-Hunt.