WordsPerfected, LLC

Career transitions are challenging enough. We make them more challenging when we mistake common myths as realities—as the way things really are. Believing these myths can get in our way of landing a new job we love. Or, we can find new ways to think about them so they don’t get in our way.

Candidates are asked about salary histories and salary requirements during four steps of the screening process. Knowing when to provide which numbers often feels like a gamble.

Online job searches are essential if you are a Hard-to-Define Professional with a wide variety of transferable skills that don’t fit into a clearly defined vocation. They are also critical if you’re not sure what you want to do next or want to make a career change.

I bet you’ve been told to tweak your résumé to match each job you apply for. This is an unnecessary waste of your valuable time. Learn how to write résumés that land on top of the “YES” pile for interviews.

Everyone knows workforce demographics are shifting. Latest estimates are that 75% of employees will be Millennials by 2025. And, they are quickly rising into middle, senior, and even C-suite management roles. At the same time, many Baby Boomers are working far beyond the traditional retirement age of 65—either by necessity or by choice. As a midlife job seeker, here are four ways to triumph over age-related dynamics you might encounter during your transition.

Are you in transition after losing a job you wanted to keep? Have you stayed too long in a job you would rather lose? Would you like to do purpose-driven work you care about deeply? Are you considering a career change? Are you a “Hard-to-Define Professional” with many transferable skills that are not easily categorized into a single, clearly defined vocation?

Mass layoffs continue, and millions of us feel lost at sea when we lose our jobs or want to change careers.

Whether losing your job by layoff or by choice, my story offers solace, insights, and actions to navigate an experience that can be traumatic, turbulent, and triumphant.

Most people tell you to spend no more than 10-20% of your job search time online. Common advice is to spend the other 80-90% out of your pajamas and away from your computer, networking with anyone and everyone you can possibly meet.

Are you throwing spaghetti against the wall to see what sticks—or connecting with people for specific reasons?

Purposeful networking is critical for career management and business development. During a recent career transition, I learned how to cultivate meaningful networking relationships. These skills help me connect with ease and joy when I think we can help each other—now or later.