Career Advice

Time For A Career Change?

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The thought of changing careers can seem daunting! We often look out at the end goal and fear what lies in between…like it will require a miracle for you to reach your goal.
In the beginning or at the very start we may see a career change as making one GIANT leap into a totally new life. I can guarantee you that you will not wake up an accountant one morning and a doctor the next. Career changes are a PROCESS and require dedication, reflection, focus, and hard work. 
It’s easy to see everyone else (especially on social media) talking about easy ways to achieve career or business goals. We can’t get caught up in all that hubbub! Focus on the aspects of  YOUR career change that you are in control of and break those smaller goals into manageable steps. Some of the steps may be more difficult than others but that is expected!
Don’t lose hope if something doesn’t come to you easily as you’d thought it would. You’re stepping out of your comfort zone for a reason. That reason is to find a career that is more challenging, exciting and meaningful to you.
 
How do you get started?
 
First, ask yourself these three questions:
• What parts of my job or career do I enjoy? What do I not enjoy?
• If I could have a new job tomorrow what would it be?
• What experience or skills do I need to get for that job/career?

 

Once you’ve identified and researched the skills needed for your new career you need to create an execution plan. I find it helpful to create weekly plans (and goals), with monthly and yearly goals. Make sure that your weekly goals, monthly goals and overall end goal are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time bound). These tactics will give you incremental victories on your way to your main goal – a NEW CAREER!
As you create your plan be sure to consider the amount of time it will take (For example, a 6-month coding boot camp) and how much you will be committing to financially. I would not recommend going into debt or taking out major loans unless that is the only option. Be sure to research the return on your investment from the training programs or schools that you’re considering.
As you begin your journey make sure to have someone like a friend or mentor that can help keep you on track and motivated. No matter how motivated we are in the beginning it’s hard to stay focused and motivated when we’re in the thick of it. It’s ok to have weak or down moments. You’re human…but DO NOT let those weak moments DEFINE you. Reaching your goals is not going to be smooth sailing, there are several elements that are out of your control, but you always have control of your attitude and your personal actions. Stay positive, focused and don’t forget to help others along the way. You’ll be receiving a ton of help and support from others – it’s important to share that same gift with others in your position.
Build your bridge, get rid of the gray area, and start actively taking steps to lead you towards your career goals. You have the ability, heart, and fortitude to be a MASSIVE SUCCESS!
– C.C. Coach 
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Career Advice, Job Search

The POWER of NETWORKING

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3 Ways to Network with Prospective Employers

& Build Relationships with Industry Leaders.

I recently read a quote that said: “85% of people found their jobs through networking.”
Whoa! Mind-blown! As someone that moved to a new city a couple of years ago…this would’ve been a scary statistic.  I didn’t know ANYONE when I moved to Boston in 2015. Thankfully, I worked for a tech start-up that was active in the community and constantly networking with local businesses in the area. 
Building a network from scratch can be a daunting task but you can’t think about building a WHOLE network all at once. Build it ONE connection AT A TIME. 
Here are THREE strategic ways to build your network:
  1. Venture Capital Firms – Check out local firms that specialize in your industry. For me, it was a firm that focused on investing in tech start-ups (OpenView Ventures in Boston). Firms like this are always working to help their portfolio clients as they scale and build out their internal teams. The firms usually have recruiting teams that are assisting hiring managers within their portfolio companies. Research their portfolio companies and directly reach out to those businesses or send your resume to the firm and explain your interests in their portfolio clients.
  2. Public Meet-ups – meetup.com and Eventbrite are the most popular sites. Both are constantly creating new events that you can attend within your area of expertise, career focus or personal interests. Sometimes going to an event that is focused on one of your hobbies or personal interests is a great way to have fun, meet new people, and connect with potential employers.
  3. Organizations & Associations Events – You can either join or attend an organization’s events. Some organizations events cost money or require you to be a member. If a membership is required try reaching out to the events main point of contact directly and explain to them why you’d like to attend their event. It never hurts to ask. Also, I’d recommend that you arrive early and stay a few minutes after the event. This is where most of the networking happens!
When it comes to your network quality is more important than quantity. 
It’s also important to have the right expectations going into each event. Relax and be open to meeting and learning from new people at an event. Keep the conversation focused on their company and what they do. It’s easy to start talking about yourself – you don’t want to dominate the conversation. To clarify, I’m not condoning that you go mute during a conversation but chime in when you have something to add to the conversation.
For example, say you meet the VP of Engineering for a company you’ve been wanting to apply to and he starts talking about a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) start-up. You can then mention an article you read or a podcast you just listened to on AI. 
This is a great way to share your interests and show how you relate to others – in one conversation!
When networking always be yourself…maybe a slightly more polished version but nonetheless don’t forget who you are! You don’t have to fit into their mold. When you work for a company it should be just as important that you like the work and company culture as much as they are deciphering if you’re a good fit (skills & cultural fit).
You’ve got this!
Feel free to send questions to your Cafe Career Coach here!
– C.C.Coach
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Career Advice

So long, Farewell!

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Ready to turn in your 2-weeks notice?! Why do so many of us feel a major sense of guilt, anxiety or fear leading up to the moment we turn in our 2-weeks notice?
Until this point, you’ve provided an incredible service to your employer and the only person that may be upset by the news is your employer. They often get upset for this reason – it’s an inconvenience to them. Yes, in some instances your employer will miss you as a friend and colleague. If that is the case, they’re also going to be extremely happy for you, wishing you well in your next opportunity.
If you’re feeling like you aren’t sure how to approach the situation here are 3 Steps to help you leave your job on a positive note!

 

How-To Tell Your Boss You’re Leaving…
1. Write a letter of resignation. Keep it short and professional. This is not the time to add emotional sentiments. It is, however, appropriate to express your gratitude for the opportunity.
2. Set-up a meeting to speak with your boss privately and hand them the letter signed. Also, email it to them after the meeting. In this email make sure to include any details from that meeting so you have it in writing. If necessary, be sure to meet with someone from your HR team to make sure that everyone is on the same page.
3. Try your best to give your boss/company 2-weeks notice. Some companies may tell you to leave that day, more often, companies greatly appreciate the time to find a replacement.

   

Going the extra mile for an employer that you’re leaving may seem counterintuitive but it can be a game changer. Don’t forget that this employer could be a reference down the road.
To ensure a positive exit, I have always made sure that I was setting up my replacement for success. You can do this by creating an outline of your daily responsibilities by providing the tasks, tools, and people that you coordinate with to complete those tasks. You will be leaving your job on a positive note and spreading that positivity on to the next person. 
Leaving a job isn’t always easy. There will for sure be unknowns throughout the process. Maintain a positive outlook, stay organized and remember that you’re not the first person to turn in their notice. You’ve got this! 
Best of luck to you all in your new adventures!
– C.C.Coach 
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Career Advice

On Edge At Work ?

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Are you always “on edge” at work? Is it due to a lack of communication from management, unclear goals or high-stress levels?
How can you effectively combat communication, goal setting/expectations, and high-stress levels at work? The solution is not always to look for another job – but in some cases its necessary. Before jumping ship, I’d recommend trying the exercises listed below to help you reduce or eliminate the elements that are causing you to be “on edge” in the workplace. Focus on the things you have control over.
In work environments where you feel anxious or are constantly stressed-out the following factors are usually the culprits (and are inhibiting you from doing your best work):
  1. Communication – Effective communication amongst teams and especially from managers is a must for a healthy and effective working environment.
    • You can help to solve this issue by requesting a weekly meeting with your manager and/or team. A time to sync up. Talk about what everyone is working on and what projects are most important. If someone is overwhelmed discuss plans to have some team members that are free to assist them. If you’re the overwhelmed person – don’t be afraid to speak-up! 
  2. Expectations/Goal Setting – Do you know what you’re being “graded” on or what your managers’ expectations are for your role or on a specific project?
    • Start by sending your manager a list at the beginning or end of each week with what you’re working on. By giving them insight into what you’re doing this week or what you achieved this week you’re able to coax them into providing feedback. If they notice that you’re excelling, struggling or working on projects they don’t want you spending time on…you are then able to create the foundation for a productive goal-setting conversation. Once this is communicated make sure that you meet with your boss to review the goals and their expectations. Continue sending the highlights email to keep them in the loop and keep you both accountable.
  3. High-Stress Levels – Some jobs have a high element of stress that can’t be eliminated. Self-care and controlling our reactions to stress are ways to manage stress when it comes.
    • I have several friends and colleagues that swear by exercising before they go to work. It pumps you full of endorphins before your day starts. I enjoy going for a run after work to clear my head. We don’t all have free time to spend and hour to work out…or, we need a solution in the moment while at the office. I recommend finding a mantra, prayer, quote, etc. Anything that can help you calm yourself and regain perspective. I also recommend going for a walk (out of or just around the office) if that’s not an option get-up and grab a cup of coffee/tea. Take yourself out of the stressful situation for a few minutes and go back to it with a slightly fresher head. There’s no magical solution but these have all worked for me and my colleagues in the past.
The solutions and best practices that we just talked about are quicker ways to combat a negative work environment. If you find yourself constantly in a state of anxiety and your job is affecting your health, relationships, and well-being negatively – It is not crazy to consider removing yourself from this kind of work place. You are never stuck. There are always options but you do have to prepare yourself for the process and focused effort required for an effective job search. If you’re not sure how to start your job search check out “5 Job Search Tools: What? How? Why?”.
As always, please feel free to send your career, job search and interview questions to cafecareercoach@gmail.com.
Best,
C.C.Coach
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Interviews, Job Search

What Are Hiring Managers Thinking?

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 When prepping for an interview we often review a standard list of questions, do some company research and possibly look up the hiring managers or interviewers LinkedIn profile to check out their background and identify an icebreaker, like, they love the Celtics and you’re a Lakers fan. HA!
I’m guessing you haven’t thought about preparing for what the hiring manager is really looking to find out about you during the interview…Why is this important? In my experience, it calms you down during the interview process and often prepares you mentally (and emotionally) for those unexpected questions…So that you aren’t thinking to yourself “Why did they ask me that?” “Are they trying to make me squirm?”
While there are some oddball interview scenarios, more often than not, you’re going to be interviewed by someone that is ultimately trying to figure out if you have the skills for the job, if you’re a cultural fit and do you really want to work there and for them? When you think about their thought-process, as they’re sitting on the other side of the table, this way it is much easier to relax and answer their interview questions.

 

I’ve worked with 100s of hiring managers and I have come to the conclusion that they’re all trying to figure out these 3 things about you…
  1. Prepared & Articulate. Do you have the skills for the job? Are you good at articulating past projects and work that you’ve done? Does it seem like you thought about and prepared answers or examples that are directly applicable to the job you’re interviewing for?
  2. Problem-Solving. How do you solve problems? Did you ask questions? Are you bullheaded or will you reach out for help before something goes wrong? Are you good at explaining how you solve problems to a group or to a manager/peers?
  3. Engaged. Are you energetic? Do you actually want this job and to work here? Have you researched the company and did you come with ideas to solve some of the companies problems OR are you curious about the problems they solve or the products/services they provide to the consumer?

 

Don’t forget, when you’re interviewing with a hiring manager you also want to interview them as well. If you’re going to directly report to this person you want to make sure you’d like working for them too! Ask them questions about their management style and what their expectations are for this role within the first month, 6 months and the first year.
If you remember one thing from this post, remember this, the hiring manager is trying to understand your thought-process and what it would be like to work with you and trust you to do work for him/her. When you approach interviews this way it often turns into an enjoyable conversation and less like a robotic exchange of strengths and weaknesses.

 

Best of luck to you all!!! Feel free to send C.C. Coach any questions you may have!
– C. C. Coach
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Career Advice

Ask For It: Promotions

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Do you feel like you’re due for a promotion? First off, ASK! If you haven’t done this – stop where you are and go do it. If you don’t believe me – check out this HBR article.
The next step is…You’ve asked your manager and they’re avoiding the subject? Or, like a friend shared with me recently they’re postponing your promotion because they aren’t sure how to tell your peers. (I know, it sounds crazy…but that’s a true story!)
In my experience, there are three type’s of bosses that you’ll run into in almost any job. They’ll either make it easier or harder for you to get promoted…but you’re determined (you’re getting promoted!)
  1. High EQ Boss – A boss that acknowledges and rewards high-performers and those contributing above and beyond.
  2. Structured “by the rules” Boss – A boss that only discusses promotions during specific employee review periods (annual, bi-annual, or quarterly).
  3. Clueless or Reactive Boss – This boss doesn’t pay attention to the happiness of their employees – as long as everything in the business is going well the culture and retention aspects of the workforce are an after thought. They only approach (tentatively) promotions or salary when it’s an issue.
Have you found yourself working for one or all of these types of boss’s before?
How did you handle it?
Did you end up getting that promotion or raise?
  1. High EQ Boss – These managers are diamonds in the rough and some of us have been fortunate to have managers that approach us before we approach them about a promotion or raise. They are able to recognize and show appreciation through accolades and rewards. Therefore, as an employee you feel your valued and that you are validated in thinking that you’re doing a stellar job! Make sure to show your appreciation. Be humble and pay-it-forward to a more junior co-worker! 
  2. “By the Rules” Boss – Managers that follow the rules aren’t all bad. At least you know what to expect and when to be prepared to discuss a promotion and/or raise. This allows you time to create a list of all of your contributions and milestones throughout the year. By having this information you’ll be making an undeniable case for why and how you’ve proven your worth and value to the organization. In this scenario it’s important to follow-up and set expectations. You want to walk out of your review understanding next steps and what your boss is going to recommend to HR for your promotion and/or raise. 
  3. Reactive Boss – These managers can sometimes be the most fun and passionate…They’re usually first-time managers or entrepreneurs that haven’t managed a large group (that aren’t their friends) before. This manager is going to require that YOU provide the structure around discussions regarding a promotion or raise. They will often want to see what you’ve done to deserve the promotion or raise but also why they should do it now? Unlike the structured boss who has a deadline to tell HR what your promotion or raise would be this manager has unlimited time to mull over your promotion. In this instance, provide your manager not only with the reasons and proof for why you deserve a raise but also how the new title and raise will enable you to be an even more effective performer. It is also important to provide them with examples of how to message this promotion to the rest of your team. This can sometimes be awkward for a new manager and they may not be sure how or when to deliver (or even if they want to deliver) such a message.
I know I say this all the time but being prepared and understanding your audience is the most valuable tool you can bring to the table. Especially, when it has to do with your role, salary, and ability to move-up in a company. Make sure you take the time to think and even prove to yourself your worth! We often think of our contributions as smaller than they are and don’t realize the impact they have on a company. Granted the economy of scale comes into play but we all need to evaluate the value that we bring to a company and if they are realizing our worth and most importantly our potential for growth within the company.
If you’re finding that this is an uphill battle…don’t give-up! Try some of the above tactics and don’t be afraid to have these conversations with your boss or manager(s). If you’re performing at high-level they could even be expecting you to approach them about how to move-up in the company.
Feel free to reach out or comment with your questions! I’m here to help! 
– C.C. Coach
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Career Advice

Top 10 Career Podcasts of 2017

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    Podcasts are an amazing way to connect with experts or people just like you and me. They give us the opportunity daily to get motivated, learn something new and offer a new outlook on our lives and careers. Below are a few of my favorite podcasts. I’ve chosen the following 10 podcasts because I believe they all provide a different viewpoint for each stage and aspect of our careers.

 

  1. TEDTalks Business
    Recommended Episode – Know your worth, then ask for it
  2.  The Tim Ferris Show
    Recommended Episode – How to Live Without Limits
  3.  Career Tools
    Recommended Episode – Analysis Tools: The 5 Whys
  4.  The Limit Does Not Exist
    Recommended Episode – How To Be Everything
  5.  The James Altucher Show
    Recommended Episode – #227 Garry Kasparov: Growing Your Talent, Working with Machines and Becoming the World Chess Champion
  6.  Live Happy Now
    Recommended Episode – Getting Grit with Caroline Miller
  7.  The Charged Life with Brendan Bruchard
    Recommended Episode – Defeat into Success
  8.  How To Be Awesome At Your Job
    Recommended Episode – #175: How to See the Blind Spots Holding Back your Career with Sara Canaday
  9.  JOBLOGUES
    Recommended Episode – You Deserve (with Jessica Kirkpatrick)
  10.  The School of Greatness Lewis Howes
    Recommended Episode – 7 Steps to a Bullet Proof Life

 

We all come from different places, have varying backgrounds and have had our own unique experiences leading us to where we are now. I hope that all or some of these podcasts are able to help inspire, motivate and empower you to continue confidently in whatever path you chose to take your career in!
Don’t forget that you have the potential to do great things! But, it never hurts to seek out resources (like podcasts!) to re-enforce best practices and positive ways of impacting our careers.
I hope you have a positive & productive week!
– C.C. Coach
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Career Advice, Job Search

Time to Look for a New Job?

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Thinking about looking for a new job?

 

Have you been sitting at your current job asking yourself
…“why am I still here”?

 

Are you wanting to start your job search but aren’t sure where or how to start?

 

Here are 4 tips to get you started >>>
1. If you’re contemplating a job search first ask yourself, “ Why am I unhappy or unfulfilled at my current job?” Then, write a pros and cons list.
2. Think about the following characteristics of a potential employer and what they may have to offer. This will help to identify what is truly important to you in your job search or career change.
  • Size
  • Industry
  • Stage: Start-up, Established, etc.
  • Company Culture & Environment
  • Location: Commute or Relocation
  • Career Pathing & Opportunity for Growth
  • Full-Time, Part-Time, Freelancing, Consulting
  • Stability
  • Autonomy (flexible working hours, remote working options, etc)
  • Salary
  • Benefits
It’s completely normal to have your preferences change throughout a job search. As you learn about new companies and opportunities your outlook can broaden which is one of the most exciting parts of a job search.
3. Once you’ve listed out your pros and cons make a list of your negotiable and non-negotiable requirements for a new job. (*Note your non-negotiable’s can limit your job pool so make sure to really consider their worth. This is not a “want” list this is a “must have” list.)
4. A job search is not the time to embrace your shy side. Reach out to trusted mentors, former colleagues and friends to discuss your job search or career change. Feedback from people that know you or have worked with you in the past can be invaluable. Make sure that you’re not just talking with people that will tell you what you want to hear. It’s important to speak with people that will be honest with you and challenge you.
**Make sure that if you’re in the middle of a job search or are contemplating one that you do not vocalize this in your current workplace. Do your best to keep your job search confidential but keep in mind that it is possible that your current employer could find out. It’s rare but that’s why it’s good practice to keep your job search quiet and amongst close and trusted friends/family.
If you have questions regarding this article or other job search and career-related topics please reach out!
Good luck! You’ve got this!
– C.C. Coach
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Interviews, Job Search

Top 6 Places You Should NOT Be During A Phone Interview

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Phone interviews are often your first introduction to the interviewer outside of them reviewing your resume. That’s why it’s important that you’re in a quiet place with little to no distractions. I’ve listed a few potential places where you probably shouldn’t be during a phone interview.
  1. Outside near a busy road or construction
  2. In a stairwell with bad reception (AND stairwells usually have an echo)
  3. A loud coffee shop
  4. While you’re walking down the street or up flights of stairs
  5. Any place where you don’t get clear reception. If you’re worried you can go “old school” and use a land line (if you have one).
  6. At your desk, at your current job. (Unless you have special circumstances such as – the company you’re working for is closing and they have given the ‘ok’ to take calls during working hours).
Be prepared. Have a friend call you from where you’re planning to take the call from the interviewer. Then you can confirm that you’ll have good reception and not a lot of background noise OR that you need to find a new location.
Additionally, it can be good practice to confirm if the interviewer is calling you or vice versa. If they haven’t made this clear feel free to shoot them a quick email confirming who is calling whom. You can also include your phone number one more time to make sure they have the correct contact information.
As always, don’t forget to send a ‘Thank You’ email to your interviewer!
Best of luck!!!
P.S. You can also check out an article I wrote for Hired.com on phone interview prep!
– C.C. Coach
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