Author: Courtney Hill

Are Job Search Assistance Services Worth It?

…Yes, Here’s Why!

In today’s competitive job market, landing your dream job can feel like an uphill battle. 🙁

From crafting the perfect resume to navigating the intricacies of interviews, job seekers often face LOTS of challenges along the way. This is where job search assistance services come into play, offering professional guidance and support to help individuals successfully navigate their career search journey.

But are these services truly worth it?

Let’s delve into the reasons why the answer is a resounding yes!

1. Expertise and Industry Insight: Job search assistance services are typically provided by seasoned professionals with extensive experience in recruiting, human resources, and career coaching. These experts have in-depth knowledge of industry trends, hiring practices, and what employers are looking for in potential candidates.

   By leveraging their expertise, job seekers can gain valuable insights into the job market and position themselves as top contenders.
   -HERE’S the exception though: make SURE you partner with someone that has BEEN on the hiring side of a company before! Someone who has been a recruiter or HR professional. The reason being… they know much better as to what hiring managers typically want.

2. Customized Strategies: One size does not fit all when it comes to job searching. Each individual has unique strengths, experiences, and career goals.

   Job search assistance services recognize this fact and tailor their strategies to suit the specific needs of their clients. Whether it’s revamping a resume, honing interview skills, or networking effectively, these services provide personalized guidance to maximize success.

3. Access to Exclusive Opportunities: Many job search assistance services have established networks and partnerships with employers across various industries. This enables them to access exclusive job openings that may not be advertised through traditional channels.

   By tapping into these hidden opportunities, job seekers can significantly expand their job prospects and increase their chances of landing coveted positions.
   -Here’s the thing, most people that don’t know how to STRATEGICALLY network… therefore they WON’T be able to tap into the hidden job market. No, networking isn’t just adding a whole bunch of random people on LinkedIn either. There needs to be intent… purpose to your networking efforts! You need to have a GOAL of who you’re trying to reach! One of our clients

4. Streamlined Process: Searching for a job can be a time-consuming and overwhelming process, especially for those balancing multiple responsibilities. Job search assistance services streamline the job search process by providing structured guidance and support every step of the way.

   From organizing job leads to providing feedback on applications, these services help alleviate the stress and uncertainty associated with job hunting.
   -For example, with our clients we actually have a very clear job search “roadmap” that has step-by-step 5 day/week action items we do for you every week. It’s super clear and leads to good interview outcomes and recruiter conversation results!

5. Boost in Confidence and Motivation: The job search journey can take its toll on one’s confidence and motivation, particularly in the face of rejection or prolonged joblessness. Job search assistance services offer more than just practical support; they also serve as cheerleaders and mentors, offering encouragement and motivation during challenging times.

   This boost in confidence can be invaluable in maintaining momentum and staying resilient throughout the job search process.
   -Who doesn’t want a team to bounce ideas off, and talk to through the highs and lows!

6. Long-Term Career Development: Job search assistance services don’t just focus on immediate job placement; they also emphasize long-term career development and growth. Through career counseling, skill assessments, and goal-setting sessions, these services empower individuals to take charge of their professional trajectory and make informed decisions about their careers.

   -By investing in their future, job seekers can build a solid foundation for sustained success.

Okay, now let’s sum this all up!

Job search assistance services offer a LOT of benefits that make them well worth the investment.

You are essentially partnering with someone who knows what makes candidates stand out and get calls… while others go right into the trash bin!

From tapping into expert knowledge and industry insights to accessing exclusive opportunities and boosting confidence, these services play a pivotal role in helping individuals navigate their career paths with confidence and success.

So if you’re ready to take your job search to the next level, consider partnering with a reputable job search assistance service to unlock your full potential – such as Career Success Now! (www.careersuccessnow.com)

Your dream job may be closer than you think, and it’s so much better to have a hiring team behind you!

So, have you been thinking about a job search assistance service to help you land your next job?

If so, book a FREE consultation with us here! 

Booking a free consultation on your job search situation can help you get clarity on what’s happening and what could really help you land your job

Cheers to your career success 🙂

-Courtney

Salary Negotiation Tips

Hey friend,

Courtney here, back with another career tip for you!

This one is all about increasing your salary in the comppettiiveeee world we life in these days (BLAH).

Let’s dive into 7 ways YOU can level up (negotiate) your salary!

In today’s competitive job market, the quest to increase your salary is a common goal shared by many professionals. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, negotiating a raise, or exploring new career opportunities, strategic planning is essential to maximize your earning potential. To help you achieve your financial goals and advance your career, we’ve compiled seven smart strategies that are sure to elevate your salary game.

1. Master the Art of Negotiation: Negotiation skills are crucial when it comes to securing a higher salary. Before entering into negotiations, research industry standards and salary benchmarks for your position. Highlight your achievements, skills, and the value you bring to the company. Be confident and assertive in presenting your case, and be prepared to negotiate terms that are mutually beneficial for both you and your employer.
2. Invest in Continuous Learning and Skill Development: In today’s rapidly evolving job market, staying relevant and up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies is essential. Invest in continuous learning and skill development to enhance your expertise and increase your value as an employee. Consider pursuing certifications, attending workshops, or enrolling in online courses to acquire new skills that are in demand in your industry.
3. Network Effectively: Networking plays a significant role in advancing your career and increasing your earning potential. Build and nurture relationships with professionals in your industry, both within and outside your current organization. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to expand your network. Networking not only opens doors to new opportunities but also provides valuable insights and mentorship from experienced professionals.
4. Demonstrate Leadership and Initiative: Demonstrating leadership qualities and taking initiative in your role can significantly impact your earning potential. Showcasing your ability to lead projects, mentor colleagues, and drive results can position you as a valuable asset to your organization. Take on additional responsibilities, propose innovative ideas, and actively seek opportunities for career advancement within your company.
5. Quantify Your Achievements: When discussing your performance and contributions during salary negotiations or performance reviews, quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use concrete metrics, such as revenue growth, cost savings, or project success rates, to demonstrate the impact of your work. Providing tangible evidence of your accomplishments reinforces your value to the organization and strengthens your case for a higher salary.
6. Stay Flexible and Adapt to Change: Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities in today’s dynamic work environment. Embrace change and be open to new opportunities that may arise within your organization or the industry. Be willing to take on new challenges, learn new skills, and explore alternative career paths that align with your goals and interests. Staying flexible allows you to capitalize on emerging opportunities and maximize your earning potential.
7. Ask for Feedback and Professional Development Opportunities: Continuous feedback and professional development are essential for growth and advancement in your career. Solicit feedback from supervisors, colleagues, and mentors to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for growth. Actively seek out professional development opportunities, such as workshops, seminars, and coaching programs, to enhance your skills and expand your knowledge base. Investing in your personal and professional development not only enhances your value as an employee but also positions you for long-term success and higher earning potential.

Increasing your salary requires strategic planning, continuous learning, and proactive career management. By mastering the art of negotiation, investing in skill development, networking effectively, demonstrating leadership, quantifying your achievements, staying flexible, and seeking feedback and professional development opportunities, you can elevate your earning potential and achieve your career goals.

Remember, the journey to a higher salary begins with smart strategies and a proactive mindset, friend!

PS want some help increasing your salary? Book a FREE career strategy call with us here

Looking forward to chatting!

-Courtney

Navigating Job Security in Today’s World: A Realistic Perspective
(from a Career Coach + HR Professional of 11+ years)

Let’s get real…

In an era DEFINED by rapid technological advancements, economic fluctuations, and global uncertainties, the concept of job security has evolved into a dynamic and multifaceted issue. While traditional notions of stable employment may still hold sway in some industries, the reality for many individuals is far more nuanced. In this article, we delve into the complexities of job security in today’s world, offering insights and strategies to empower individuals in their career pursuits.

Understanding Job Security in the Modern Landscape

Gone are the days of lifelong employment with a single company. The rise of automation, outsourcing, and gig economy platforms has fundamentally altered the employment landscape, making traditional notions of job security increasingly elusive. In today’s world, job security is less about permanent positions and more about adaptability, resilience, and continuous skill development.

Key Factors Influencing Job Security

1. Technology Disruption: Automation and artificial intelligence have transformed industries, rendering certain jobs obsolete while creating new opportunities. Individuals must stay abreast of technological trends and cultivate skills that are in demand to remain relevant in the job market.
2. Economic Uncertainty: Economic downturns, globalization, and geopolitical tensions can impact job stability. Diversifying one’s skill set and maintaining a financial safety net can mitigate the effects of economic volatility.
3. Shift Towards Contract Work: The gig economy has witnessed exponential growth, offering flexibility but often at the expense of traditional benefits and stability. Freelancers and independent contractors must navigate a fluctuating market and establish a strong personal brand to secure consistent work opportunities.
4. Remote Work Dynamics: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, blurring geographical boundaries and redefining workplace norms. While remote work offers flexibility, it also introduces new challenges such as digital fatigue and blurred work-life boundaries.

Strategies for Enhancing Job Security

1. Continuous Learning: Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning to adapt to evolving job requirements and market demands. Invest in acquiring new skills, certifications, and qualifications that enhance your employability across different industries.
2. Networking and Personal Branding: Cultivate a robust professional network both online and offline. Attend industry events, engage with peers on social media platforms, and showcase your expertise through blogs, articles, or personal projects to enhance your visibility and credibility within your field.
3. Financial Planning: Build a financial safety net by saving for emergencies, investing in diverse assets, and creating multiple streams of income. Consider acquiring additional insurance coverage to protect against unforeseen events such as illness or job loss.
4. Adaptability and Resilience: Develop resilience to navigate setbacks and adapt to changing circumstances. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation, and remain agile in your career trajectory.
5. Stay Informed: Stay abreast of industry trends, economic indicators, and emerging technologies that may impact your profession. Proactively seek out learning opportunities and stay ahead of the curve to maintain a competitive edge in the job market.

To sum this allll uppp!

In today’s rapidly evolving world, job security is no longer guaranteed by tenure or organizational loyalty. Instead, it is forged through adaptability, resilience, and a proactive approach to skill development and career management. By embracing change, cultivating a diverse skill set, and fostering a strong professional network, individuals can navigate the uncertainties of the modern job market and thrive in their careers.

Remember, job security is not merely a destination but a journey of continuous growth and adaptation in response to the dynamic forces shaping our world.

Hope this helps my friend!

Remember to check out our page if you are looking for a FRESH AND NEW resume, cover-letter and LinkedIn profile makeover HERE!

Looking forward to helping you out in your career!

-Courtney

Keywords: job security, modern employment, technological disruption, economic uncertainty, gig economy, remote work, continuous learning, personal branding, financial planning, adaptability, resilience.

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Job burnout is a special type of work-related stress.

It’s a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that also involves a sense of fatigue and lack of motivation.

Whatever the cause, job burnout can affect your physical and mental health. It’s important to consider how to know if you’ve got job burnout and ultimately, what you can do about it.

If I’m being honest with you, I was burnt out from my job 1.5 years ago.

Seriously exhausted, stressed, could barely get out of bed.

The LAST thing I ever wanted to do was go to work. In fact, the thought of work made me sick.

What was the cause of my burnout? Being understaffed at work and being worked to the bone. There was 2 people in my department for 5 people worth of work.

It was crazy, and I was turning crazy.

Here are some job burnout symptoms (that I know all too well):
-Cynical or overly critical at work
-Dragging yourself there and having a tough time getting started
-Being impatient or irritated with coworkers
-Finding it hard to concentrate
-Waking up in the middle of the night thinking of work
-Having a tough time getting to sleep from work items
-Using alcohol or other drugs to cope
-Feeling a lack of care towards work
-Feeling a low sense of satisfaction towards work

… and ultimately, feeling like you want to hand in your resignation every second day!!!

Here are some possible causes of job burnout:
-No job description or clear expectations
-Dysfunctional culture
-Lack of strong leadership
-Lack of work life balance (hello constant long hours)
-Extreme workload, unrealistic expectations
-Vacation/time-off guilt

Do any of these speak to you?

I hope not, but burnout DOES happen!

What I ended up doing to help my burnout was immediately take 3 weeks off work.

I was honest with my manager that I was feeling the symptoms of burnout and really needed to go take care of myself.

So, what CAN you do to relieve job burnout?
-Discuss your symptoms and concerns with your manager.
Be honest! Sometimes, a real conversation explaining how you’re feeling can open their eyes and kick in reality. It can be a major white flag… a sign that you need help. You CAN’T keep going the way you’ve been going and that something needs to change.

-Seek support. Talk to a counsellor, a friend you trust, parent or career coach. They may be able to provide coping mechanisms.

-Take the time off you need. I’m not taking 1 day. Honestly? Probably not even 2. True burnout may require 1-4+ weeks off to relieve. Make sure you are using your much needed time off in a way that will help you heal and recover.

-Get quality sleep and exercise time in. This may seem obvious but 8 hours per day of sleep, and 30 minutes (minimum) per day of exercise will do wonders. This is what I aim for everyday.

-Practice mindfulness. My boyfriend is a Vancouver Firefighter and let me tell you… he sees some crazy things as I’m sure you can imagine. He practices mindfulness REGULARLY! Even 3 minutes per day makes a world of a difference for him. He’s been teaching me the mindfulness ropes and I can really say it works. You focus on your breathing and being aware of what you’re feeling + sensing in the moment. There’s no doubt that you feel much more calm after mindfulness. I’m no pro at it just yet… but truly, try it for yourself.

Remember, your health = your wealth.

Take care of yourself.

Every, single, day.

-Courtney

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If you dream of landing a career offer at somewhere like Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Twitter, Instagram, or any of the major tech companies, and an offer that is likely worth six figures, if not multiple six figures, and without knowing anybody, without pinging 100 people on LinkedIn, and most of all without years and years of experience, then this blog post (and video) is for you.

PS if this is the first time landing on Career Success Now, to introduce myself more, my name is Courtney and I’m a passionate career strategist sharing my knowledge from ten plus years in HR and recruitment to help you rise to the top of your industry.

I actually have a YouTube channel that helps professionals up-level in their career as well! Check it out here and hit that subscribe + notification bell if you were provided with good value from it!

Simply put, in this video, I provide you with five strategies that you can start using today to land yourself a sweet, high paying job in the tech sector!

I’m not going to lie, this gets me really jazzed up. Imagine one of my followers lands a job at Google or Facebook or Instagram because of the strategies I teach today. I would be so stoked. And you better leave a comment if that happens. And PS, I provide the best strategy last… as always.

So make sure you stick around until the very end. And by the way, no, I’m not going to sit here and just tell you to network, network, network your way to Google. That’s just not going to happen. We have to do more than that. We have to move beyond those strategies. So really pay attention.

Strategy #1: Make a list of all the tech industries, then companies within those industries that you’re really interested in landing a job offer for and why. I know this is going to sound really tedious and really dull and really not fun at all, but I promise you it’s going to be worth it whether you put it in Excel or just write it down in a notebook. Again, write those industries within the tech industries that you are interested in, and then the companies that fall within those industries. It’s really, really important to get clear on this and make a list.

The reason why we also do this is because there’s so many different industries within tech. Do you want to get into biotech, banking, fintech, healthcare, tech, social media, tech? What are the industries that really call to you? If you’re just one of these people that say, you know what? I don’t care, I just want to get into any tech, well, that’s not enough.

We really want you to think about what industry calls your heart. The reason why I say 15 companies, not five and not say 50, is because we want you to have enough companies, but not too many to a point where you get lost or you’re really confused which one you even want to work for. I think 15 is a great starting point to really narrow in on. By the way, if you’re having a hard time coming up with 15 even though you really shouldn’t, because I swear I just listed like eight right there. Come up with Google or type into Google a list of tech companies within X industry. Maybe that’s the social media industry or the fintech industry or the banking industry. Just type into Google list of X companies within X industry and it will do the work for you.

Strategy #2: Research and really get to know these companies. What I mean by that is get to know what challenges they’re experiencing right now. What platforms are they using? Really learn to speak their language. And I already hear what you’re saying through this camera right now. You’re saying, how am I supposed to know what challenges they’re experiencing right now? Well, where there’s a will, there’s a way that’s the point of doing research. Go on YouTube, look at their social media. What are their CEO saying? What are they podcasting about? What are they putting out there and talking about? Study these companies and speak their language. Research and really put together everything that you learn about this company.

This will really be important at the later stages in this video where I talk about how and where you will start talking to people. But for now, it’s really important to just gather as much data as you can. That’s also why I say 15 companies so that it’s not an overwhelming amount of research that you have to do. But if you only focus on a few, then that’s not enough either. So I really think 15 is that sweet spot to just write as many notes as you can and track them as much as possible so that you can get an interview, which I know you will, and start really speaking their language.

Strategy #3: Go where these tech people are found. Think about it. Where would people hang out if they worked at Facebook, Instagram, Google, Twitter, Microsoft? Where do they network? Where do they eat? Where do they hang out? What events do they attend? I really want you to put some thought into this. And again, research. Or if you can try to find even just one person in one of those companies through LinkedIn or through Hunter email, that’s a really good tip too. How can you just find even one person to give you some insight into this? Maybe Reddit has open forms on where these people hang out, their favorite local restaurant or their favorite bar. I really want you to almost be stalkerish for just a little bit of time and think about where can you find these people within this.

With strategy number three, by the way, I really want you to have your elevator pitch ready because say you find somebody at one of those networking events that Google employees hang out at or at that local bar that Twitter people are constantly hanging out at. I want you to be prepared in case they ask you, hey, who are you?What do you do? One of the most common questions. Right. So make sure you have that ready. And here’s a great format that you can use in case you don’t have a good elevator pitch.

The format that I recommend is:
1- Who are you?
2- Where are you now?
3- And what are your future goals?

(Okay, again, who are you? Where are you now? And what are your future goals?)

Here’s what this can look like.

So step one, who am I? Hey, what’s up? My name is Courtney and I’m an HR professional that has experience across various different industries, including healthcare, construction, and manufacturing. Then two, where am I now? Currently I’m an HR manager working at X company within X industry, and I’m really excited about what I do right now. Number three, future goals. I am an HR manager and my goal is to eventually become an HR director within Facebook or Instagram. I really want to break into the tech sector. So see, there’s my overall elevator pitch. Again, it’s very short and sweet. Who am I? Where am I now and where do I eventually want to be? And the last tip within this strategy number three is have a business card ready even if it’s not linked to a company, which I think it shouldn’t be linked to a company.

You should have your own brand right now, independent of a company, but always have a business card that has a phone number and an email and your overall professional title, like HR professional or software engineer. Just so that once you start having these conversations, you can easily say, hey, here’s my business card. I’d love to get in touch. Where’s your business card? Could I grab one?

It’s these little details that make a big difference. I would love if somebody handed me a professional business card that was well branded just towards them.

Strategy #4: Make it easy for the connection that you built to refer you to that company. I was talking to somebody even the other day that really wanted to get into Google and I feel like a lot of people really over complicate things. The job description that these big companies put out there, like Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Instagram, these job descriptions or postings are really the keys to your success.

I mean that I think we really undervalue them. But the company is essentially putting out there what they need in a candidate and your job is to build a really clear and concise deliverable that essentially tells them that you have done a lot of the things that they’re looking for. Make it a no brainer for them. Recruiters especially. They want you to make their life easier.

I know this firsthand, I’ve been a recruiter. I do recruitment all the time. If somebody comes to me and says, hey, Courtney, I’ve done X, Y, and Z and you’re looking for X, Y, and Z, then I’m like thank you. You just made my life easier. I will now take your resume to the hiring manager and show them that we have to interview this person or else we’re fools.

 Strategy #5? (Best for last): You will have to watch my YouTube video to find out, my friend!

Catch it here!

Enjoy ?

-Courtney

‘The Great Resignation’… you’ve likely heard about this by now. Maybe you have, maybe you haven’t… or heck, maybe you were even APART OF IT!

If I’m being frank with you… I was.

YUP! I was someone who participated in the Great Resignation.

I’ll explain why later on.

Essentially, the Great Resignation is a phenomenon that describes record numbers of people leaving their jobs in and around the time of COVID-19. There are various reasons why people have chosen to leave or change their jobs during this time in mass numbers, here are some of them:

1. Realizing remote work is very much possible and beneficial for certain professions as a result of COVID-19:

Pre-COVID-19, many people were used to the need to being in person or in the office to get paid. This often meant long commutes, buying expensive car gasoline, waking up extra early and buying work clothes. Now, so many employers have realized operations must carry on and if that means someone having a laptop at home, then so be it.

We also know costs for goods, supplies and resources are going up and UP every year so if there’s any way to cut little costs, employees are all over it. Not commuting also means more time with your family, savings on childcare or meals out as well.

2. Mass layoffs and time away from work made people re-evaluate their career choice and priorities:

When large amounts of people have time on their hands due to being laid off or cut hours… minds start to wander. Some people deeply reflected on what they truly wanted to do and took action on it, while others realized they simply needed a break from work in general. People who took action may have contemplated going back to school, or pursing the side job people truly enjoyed.

Others realized the daily grind was just something they needed to step away from and do other pursuits instead and honestly, I don’t blame them. I’ve been burnt out from a job before and all you want to do is lay in bed and not move.

Maybe re-evaluation meant action, others it meant turning the world off.

3. The advancement of technology lends itself to more people starting their own businesses:

As the world continues to advance in technology, more businesses and partnerships are available online. Apps are being build, computers are less fair inexpensive, WIFI is virtually everywhere and if you don’t have a phone… you’re odd. Social media has also BLOWN UP the way we communicate and can share information instantly. This means people see opportunities more than ever. You can have online stores, market yourself for free and ultimately build a business and life easier and faster than ever!

This too… has led to resignations.

4. Low pay, being under valued = times of the past:

Finally, all of the factors listed above has led people to be at ropes end when it comes to low pay and being under valued. It’s not rocket science to know that many companies are VERY lucrative and they need good workers to be the thriving companies most are. So… workers want a piece of the puzzle back and for many highly skilled workers in particular, this is a non-negotiable.

Again… people want to be treated fairly, recognized and compensated well for their hard work and I don’t blame them. Like I said earlier, I want one of these people. I work hard, invested in a very good post secondary education and always strive to add value to an organization. In return, I too wanted fair and I sure as heck landed that.

So… how about you?

Comment below!

Until next time.

-Courtney