New Learners for the New Economy

While things are looking a little brighter, the economy still seems to be in a bit of free fall. If you aren’t looking for work yourself, you know someone who is searching for a job, who just graduated, or is tuning up their skills so they don’t get permanently furloughed or downsized.

What qualities do you need as a learner to adapt to our new economy? What learning attributes do employers seek in the flatter, fragmented and constantly changing workplace? Many of the ways we were taught to be learners in school stand in direct contrast to the qualities we need in today’s economy and job market. Read more

Reinventing Your Career

The cover story in the USA Today that landed outside my hotel room a couple weeks ago featured a man who’d worked in the automobile industry since his teens. Facing yet another layoff, the 35-year-old made the decision to shift gears, go back to school and pursue a career in the health industry. That type of story is becoming increasingly common in this topsy-turvy economy. But, for women, the trend has been on the rise for quite some time. Read more

Creating Job Security by Becoming the Boss

I recently received an e-mail from a business owner and new author whose book release has been delayed by the publisher. She says the book explains how to turn a product idea into a profitable business, but the publisher and booksellers are telling her people simply aren’t taking “risks” right now.

Undoubtedly, it’s more important than ever to be cautious with our income and assets. But starting a business can be a very wise investment of your time and money — if you do it right. And with the uncertainty of the economy and fewer “secure” jobs available, becoming an entrepreneur or independent professional is an option many women are examining more closely. In our recent poll, more than half of you said you were either starting a business or taking on freelance or contract work in an effort to create financial security in your life. Read more

Make an Impression

One of the most common misconceptions about searching for a job is that the person with the most or best experience is the one who gets hired. The truth is: You’re more likely to be hired for a job based on your connection with the interviewer than on your qualifications. And the best way to forge an instant, powerful connection with your interviewer is to define and communicate a strong job-seeker personal brand. Read more