Seven Cover Letter Secrets for Job Search Success in 2014

by Cheryl Lynch Simpson

Like resumes, cover letters have changed a lot in recent years. If you’re planning a job search in 2014, it will be important to employ current cover letter best practices to give your candidacy an edge.

Here are seven such practices that will propel your cover letters from ho-hum missives to WOW communiques:
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Five Things Every Job Seeker Needs to Know about LinkedIn

By Cheryl Lynch Simpson

LinkedIn is a critical tool for nearly all job seekers these days, yet many are unaware of the important role this social networking system can play in the success of their search. LinkedIn can make or break a job search for almost any professional – smart seekers will ensure they know the ins and outs of this social networking site for professionals.

1. LinkedIn is the tool of choice for internal and external recruiters.

Research by Jobvite reveals that 96% of recruiters use LinkedIn – it’s their #1 candidate sourcing tool. If job seekers want to be discovered by search consultants and employers, then LinkedIn is the place to be. If job seekers ignore LinkedIn, they ensure themselves a long, slow search with few interviews.

Five Ways to Build and Leverage a Network

By Liz O’Donnell

One of the best strategies for working women trying to advance their careers while also managing their many other responsibilities in life, is to build a strong network of women around them.

Maybe you’ve tried a few all-women networking events and didn’t get much value from them. Or maybe you’ve used the little time you have to seek out a mentor who you hope will open doors for you. Outside of your professional life you know friendships are important, but they seem so difficult to maintain due to your overbooked schedule.

Perhaps you’re looking in the wrong place. Often, the most valuable allies are right beside us in our community, on our commuter train, or working in the next office. Building a network of female peers you can lean on is as important as finding mentors and sponsors in the C-suite who will champion you at work. Read More

Five Ways to Find Nine Hours of Job Search Time Per Week

By Lisa Rangel

Want more time to job search? Would you like to find nine hours of job search time per week? Do you find yourself asking these questions?

“How am I supposed to look for a job when I am employed?”

“Finding a job is a full-time job…and I already have a job. How am I supposed to do this?”

Sound familiar? It is a perplexing dilemma in today’s world of over scheduling, multitasking and uber-achievement. But there is help. These strategies and tools have been time-tested to generate at least nine hours per week in time that can be used towards a job search, when these tactics are employed consistently and diligently. Are you up for the challenge?
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Tips for Following Up After An Interview

By Jean Baur

It’s an odd moment: you’re relieved that the interview is over, but then start worrying about how you did and when, if ever, you’ll hear from them. A day seems like a long time and a week is forever! What can you do to keep from climbing the walls or tearing your hair out?

Before you leave an interview, ask about their time frame. When do they plan on making a decision?

Right after the interview, make a list of three things you did well.
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Land Your Next Job with Conversational Intelligence

By Judith Glaser

Knowing how to have an effective conversation is not just an inherent talent — it’s a skill backed by science that anyone can learn. In my new book CONVERSATIONAL INTELLIGENCE, I translate complex scientific material into adaptable practices for anyone to master and apply to getting a job and rising in a company.

Conversational Intelligence™ is what separates those who are successful from those who are not — in business, in relationships, and even in marriages. Read More