How Recruiters Should NOT Run LinkedIn Groups

How Recruiters Should NOT Run LinkedIn Groups I was invited to join a LinkedIn group the other day. Well actually I probably get invited to join a LinkedIn group every day but this one stood out. I am not going to name the group or the recruitment company that started it, Ill simply mention what lessons we can all learn here. In a world with 2 million LinkedIn groups you cant afford to waste time on doing things wrong. Heres how NOT to run a LinkedIn group: The name of the group was the same as the recruitment agency. Unless you are Apple or Google its going to be hard to build a community around your brand on LinkedIn, very few people will want to join a group that carries a name like Mickey Mouse Recruitment. Ideally youd want to build the group around a topic, such as HR, Marketing or Healthcare. This is going to interest professionals in that field, Joe Bloggs Staffing is not. There were 4 posts in the group, all by the group manager and all about current vacancies that the recruitment agency are working on. So no content about the market, people or news. No real discussions between peers. Not even a question for anyone just a direct sales channel in other words. A soon as I saw this I knew this would be another tumbleweed LinkedIn group set up by a recruiter. I saw no reason to join this group unless you are an active jobseeker. If its all about jobs and recruitment, it wont attract the 80% of LinkedIn users who are happy in their jobs big mistake when we know that passive candidates are typically the best ones.  Even when a jobseeker does join this group, as soon as they find a new job what will they do? Leave the group as soon as they find something. My invite was sent way too early. Why send invites to a group that has less than 5 members? Its a fact that people want to go where other people are, just think of that swanky night club with long queues outside. The better way of doing it would be to reach a critical mass, say 50 or 100 people before blasting it out to un-initiated users. So start with the team, then friends and family (if they oblige that is), then candidates and clients that already know you and then go public with the group. I didnt stick around long enough to gauge the group rules, moderation, any welcome emails so dont know if they actually did these things right. I for one wont be going back to find out. Any other thoughts on how not to run a LinkedIn group? Please let me know! Related: How To Grow a LinkedIn Group to 50k+ Members [Case Study].

How to Make Your Resume Mobile-Friendly

How to Make Your Resume Mobile-Friendly As mobile phones become smarter, recruiters are also following suit. In the last three years, social media recruitment went from 39 percent to over 52 percent. And most of this recruitment was done via some sort of mobile technology.Recruiters and Hiring Managers are extremely busy professionals and often use their cell phones to go through their emails Which of the two following resumes do you think she will gravitate towards?She won’t be able to check this one properly until she can download a copy on a desktop version of Microsoft Word. Plus â€" where’s his number? It seems to be hidden by a light blue box.So she closes it and quickly opens the next.Richard’s thankfully made her life easier by using a nearly plain-text resume format that shows up beautifully on her iPhone. She taps his number, her phone dials it, and she gets Richard on the phone to ask what his availabilities are this week.She promptly forgets all about Dean and returns to her busy schedule.evalFrankly, in this short-attention-span age, the quicker you can make your point and inspire people to interview you, the better off you are.Follow these simple tips to make sure your resume passes the “mobile-friendly” test:1. Use a simple formatResist the urge to go all out when formatting your resume. Use a clean font, larger than size 10, so that the reader doesn’t need to zoom in to see your resume. Use lots of white space, avoid tables, and use bulleted lists wherever possible.2. Think verticalMost people look at their mobile screen vertically and scroll down using just a single finger or thumb. Pack the top 1/3rd of your resume Make Hiring Managers’ lives easy by keeping your resume to just a couple of pages and using short, simple bullets to explain what you did. Group similar bullets together and delete or combine redundant ones.4. Use hyperlinks to save spaceAdd hyperlinks to your contact number and email to make it easier for hiring managers to contact you while they’re still on their phone. Include your personal portfolio, if applicable. Try to keep your contact info to a single line.5. Test,Test,Test!Send your resume to several friends with different cell phones. At the very least you want to check what your resume looks like on an iPhone, Blackberry, and Android phones. Save your resume in Word, not PDF, because if the recruiter wants to upload your resume to an Applicant Tracking System, your Word file will perform better.6. Make it easy for them to understand what you doThe purpose of a resume is to secure an interview. One of the best ways to quickly make an impression is to include your headline right under your name, just like Richard did in his resume.You can use this link to generate a headline to put in your own resume. Doing so will help recruiters quickly understand what your biggest strengths are.

Why Is It So Hard to Write My Own C-level Career Brand Biography - Executive Career Brandâ„¢

Why Is It So Hard to Write My Own C-level Career Brand Biography Composing a biography (or any other career marketing document) can be overwhelming. Its not easy to write about yourself. Knowing what to include, what not to include, how to write to the reader, and why hiring authorities care about your personality are just some of the stumbling blocks. You may not understand the value of a career brand biography over the traditional bio you may be used to  â€" a boring rehash of your resume that gives little or no feel for what kind of person you are, what attributes and strengths drive you, and how those brand attributes can benefit potential employers. I find that my clients sometimes have a hard time completing my bio worksheet, even though they know Ill be doing the actual writing. They resist talking about themselves. But also, some are worried about broadcasting what they consider to be highly personal information about themselves. I reassure them that its okay to let people in on their softer side. In fact, this is the very information hiring authorities are seeking in top-level executive candidates, but dont often get, and gives my clients a competitive advantage over their peers who dont use this strategy. I tell them to rely on the storytelling benefits of brand bios to complement and work in tandem with their executive resume. Bios can do what resumes dont do as successfully: Showcase your leadership and management acumen through softer skills and “good fit” attributes, and link them to your value proposition. Personalize your C-A-Rs (Challenge Actions Results) stories and use them to reinforce your brand attributes and key strengths. Generate chemistry around how you use your key personal attributes, passions, strengths, and motivated skills to make things happen for employers. Help employers connect with you and envision you on the job, having a positive impact. Related posts: How to Write a C-level Executive Career Brand Biography 10 Steps to an Authentic, Magnetic Personal Brand How to Write An Irresistible C-level Executive Brand Resume in 10 Steps 00 0

Tips for job seekers - Margaret Buj - Interview Coach

Tips for job seekers Enjoying a career in our own choice of industry is what everyone strives for when putting in the hard hours during each rung of the education ladder, but jobs very rarely fall on our laps when we most want one. Finding work has become extremely difficult in recent years, with a global recession resulting in a considerable number of companies falling into liquidation, which has in turn created an overwhelming imbalance between supply and demand. People are often left feeling disheartened at not being able to find employment that would provide them with occupational and financial benefits, but there are a number of handy tips which those looking for work can use to improve their chances. Stay positive The one thing to remember when you are unemployed that it is, in fact, your job is to look for employment. This can be used as motivation to search for jobs on a regular basis, whether it is in the local job centre, newspaper or online. You should always stay positive throughout the process of applying for jobs and waiting for a reply; although you may be unsuccessful with applications and do not hear back from prospective employers, there are always new vacancies made available via companies who are looking for people with particular skills and experience which may be a perfect fit for you. Positivity can ensure that you keep trying and prevent falling into the trap of giving up, with perseverance and a positive mindset important to making the all-important break you are searching for. Get plenty of rest and sleep It is naturally understandable for some people to spend all day and night searching for a job, but there comes a time when you need to take your body and mind’s condition into consideration. Taking several rest breaks and enjoying a good night’s sleep on a comfortable bed will ensure that you remain focused and ensure the batteries remain charged ready for the day ahead. Losing sleep and becoming an insomniac is one of the consequences of not having a job, and not gaining proper rest can also be detrimental when it comes to interviews as it will prevent you from looking facially presentable and answer questions coherently or with the right attitude. These factors can instantly deter a potential employer from acquiring your services, so it is always important to spend adequate hours tucked up in bed. Sell yourself in a positive light Potential employers look for candidates who not only fit the required specifications and skillsets needed for the job, but also look for people who sell themselves and their qualities to make them stand out from the rest. It is therefore essential that you ensure every aspect of your C.V, cover letter and work portfolio (if one is required) portrays your personality and the qualities you can bring to the table. The same rule also applies to interviews, as it allows you to showcase yourself in a professional light; wearing suitable clothing, learning about the company’s history and highlighting your key abilities can make the difference between missing out and being successful in your quest to gain employment.

RAF Eligibility Criteria 2017 How To Ace Enlistment

RAF Eligibility Criteria 2017 How To Ace Enlistment The Royal Air Force or RAF is an equal opportunity employer meaning that no race, social, cultural, religious background is discriminated against. It does not matter if a candidate is male, female, or gay. The RAF likes to recruit a variety of individuals to ensure that all careers are filled with proper candidates from all backgrounds and education. There are still RAF recruitment eligibility requirements that must be met for a candidate to apply and succeed through training to an enlisted position. The starting age for the RAF is 16 years of age with parental consent. RAF Eligibility CriteriaMen and women can apply; however, certain roles for combat such as the RAF Regiment are restricted to men only. As for other RAF eligibility criteria, one must meet the age, fitness, and nationality/residency qualifications. For certain ranks and positions within the RAF academic requirements might apply. Generally, education requirements are restricted to officers or candidates hoping to enter in an officer position rather than go through cadet training from the lowest possible rank in the RAF. For those in an HM Forces Service position applications are processed only mildly differently. Nationality and Residency RequirementsAny candidate will need to have a British, Commonwealth or Dual citizenship for Britain. If the nationality requirements are met then the individual needs to prove they were in the UK for the last 5 years with no more than 28 days per annum spent outside of the UK. If there is a strong reason for being out of the country and supporting evidence than an application may be approved but it is a case by case situation.Fitness and MedicalEvery candidate must meet certain medical requirements to move through the application process. Height and weight is not always specific; however, certain jobs require a minimum height in order to perform the duties. It is best to check your height based on your potential placement in the RAF. Minimum and maximum BMIs are in place for health and safety reasons. BMI ranges need to be within 17 to 32 depending on gender and age. Any male 18 or older is required to be 18 to 32. A person 16 years of age must be within 17 to 27.Part of the RAF eligibility criteria includes taking eyesight tests. There are minimum standards to be met for uncorrected and corrected eyesight based on the position a candidate will hold. For regular roles +/- 6 dioptres is required. Also colour blindness is not accepted in certain roles, but does not eliminate a candidate entirely. These tests may take place at the Armed Forces Careers Office (AFCO).The medical staff in the RAF conducting the medical exams and fitness assessment can decide on a case by case basis if a person can handle the physical requirements of the job and the training that is required. There is some room for candidates to pass without strictly being within the ranges stated above for height, weight, and eyesight. There are also certain conditions that coul d exclude a person from joining the RAF. The Royal Air Force does not believe every candidate needs to be a top athlete, but in fit enough condition to handle the situations that arise.Part of the fitness section is a 2.4 km run that must be completed within a certain time frame. There are also press-ups and sit-ups required. Each age group and gender has a certain minimum that must be met in terms of number and a maximum time allowable for the run.   Depending on age males must make the run in 11.39 to 13.27 minutes, do 15 to 20 press-ups and 20 to 35 sit-ups. Females have 13.54 to 15.53 minutes to complete the run, 5 to 10 press-ups, and 17 to 32 sit-ups. The age group is a range of 16 to 54 for men and women. There are entry criteria and then training completion requirements. The RAF does not expect the highest performance level until after training.Convictions, Bankruptcy and Criminal ChecksEven candidates who have a conviction on their record may still meet the RAF eligibility criteria. Depending on the offence the person may be kept out of certain service positions or held to a lower ranking. It will depend on the situation and how long ago the conviction occurred. If court proceedings are still ongoing denial is made for the application.Bankruptcy when un-discharged makes a candidate ineligible for RAF recruitment. Additionally, certain positions may require a criminal records bureau clearance before acceptance. This entry was posted in Armed Forces, Eligibility Criteria. Bookmark the permalink. Joshua Brown Paramedic Eligibility CriteriaFirefighter Eligibility Criteria: PQAs and other Essentials

Try These Unique Networking Methods!

Try These Unique Networking Methods! When it comes to networking, you don’t always have to step completely out of your shell to meet new people. One of the common misconceptions people have about networking is you have to attend professional events to make new contacts. However, sometimes you can make a professional contact just by living your daily life and being friendly. Here are some unique ways you can expand your network without having to attend a professional networking event. 1. Volunteer Volunteering is always good to do anyway, but you also never know whom you might meet in the process. Strike up a conversation with your fellow volunteers and learn a little more about their life from a personal and professional standpoint. Plus, volunteering will help with your LinkedIn profile development and you can connect with other people who have volunteered with the same organization (possibly in other cities as well). 2. Go to the Gym The gym generally isn’t a place people expect to make good networking contacts. However, just talking to the person next to you could lead to good conversations about a variety of topics. Just don’t be overly pushy when trying to strike up a conversation. Sometimes people want to stick to themselves when they’re at the gym, so be sure to recognize these cues and don’t bother people who want to stay to themselves. 3. Church Groups Most professional resume writing services won’t ask you to put any church organizations on your resume, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t valuable for networking purposes. Depending on how active you are in your church group, you could make some lifelong friends and quality business contacts just by participating in events. 4. Just Be Friendly You don’t need a LinkedIn profile writing service to tell you friendliness is the best way to make good connections. You can network just about anywhere you go. The grocery store, the park, restaurants and anywhere else could be perfect for networking if you are friendly. Most people don’t mind talking to other people and being friendly. You never know where the conversation might lead. There are a lot of interesting people in the world who could help your professional growth; you just have to find them! You don’t have to be skilled at LinkedIn profile development in order to grow your network. For other networking tips and to learn how you can approach people in a professional manner, feel free to contact us at any time.

How To Answer the Overqualified Interview Question - Hallie Crawford

How To Answer the Overqualified Interview Question The lament I hear from my aged 50+ clients is:   I get the same question in every interviewDont you think you are overqualified which translates into I am too old.  However, it is a legitimate question for a company to ask anyone who has done work similar to the job being applied to.  After all, you could become bored and quit after the company has invested in you. So, lets recognize the elephant in the room, and tackle it head on with a response that is both honest and shows your determination in getting the job.  Here are some suggested phrases that you can use:                While my qualifications are extensive, every company has different processes, and I am continuous learner eager to understand different approaches and enjoy working with new people.  And, my broad experience makes me an ideal mentor for younger workers.                I have enjoyed this kind of work for many years and want to continue to do it as I get a great sense of fulfillment from it and certainly would not find it boring.  I really do want this job and appreciate the opportunity to work for such a terrific company.                Please appreciate that I am very healthy and vital and can stay with the company for many years.                For those reasons, I feel I am an excellent candidate for this position. Resist the limiting belief of being too old.    It will show in your attitude and be noticed during the interview.  With more people staying in the workforce and not retiring, you are only as old as you think you are.  Lots of companies welcome 50+ workers because of their experience and their dedication to work.  Why not be one of them! We hope this is helpful to you! Katie Weiser, Associate Coach at HallieCrawford.com