Don't Burn Any Bridges

I was a recruiter for over 12 years.  I worked for firms that specialized in accounting, sales, legal, financial and media.  It was a great feeling knowing I could make a difference in the professional lives of my candidates.  It was tremendously rewarding work.  I developed new business in all my roles and found that gratifying as well.  I enjoyed nurturing, servicing and maintaining my client relationships even though it wasn't always smoothe sailing.  There's a fine balance keeping candidate and client equally happy.  But I did it because I'm a people pleaser and that's what recruiters do.

As much as I loved my work, it came with it's share of headaches (can you relate?).  One of my biggest  pet peeves (ask any recruiter) was dealing with the sometimes inconsiderate candidates who wouldn't show up (or call) for an interview with me.  I even had candidates who would "no show" for a client interview.  Can you imagine being that rude?  If you can, than a word to the wise; DON'T BURN ANY BRIDGES WITH RECRUITERS.  If you think a recruiter will work with you again after pulling something so disrespectful, you're dead wrong.   Many recruiters have a bad reputation because they're only interested in their commission and don't care about making the right match for client and candidate.  However, there are plenty who have scruples, talent and a heart.  If you find one, don't let them go.  They can be significantly instrumental in your next career move.

"Good Night, And Good Luck"

Laura Rivchun

The Unexpected

Today is Saturday, October, 29th.  As I look out the window, it's snowing like nobody's business.  Yes, SNOWING!  My boyfriend and I were barbecuing chicken (and sausage) last weekend and I was suntanning in Riverside Park (the Sun Goddess that I am).  Not to mention it's Halloween.  Did you plan on trick or treating?  Well, this year I think the "trick" is on all of us!

Life is filled with the unexpected like winning the lottery or running into a childhood classmate on Fifth Avenue who ends up being a boyfriend for ten years (true story!) or SNOW IN OCTOBER.  The unexpected comes in all forms, and when it does, we best greet it with open minds.

When it comes to career change or being out of work,  there are plenty of positive and unpredictable situations like getting invited back for a second interview when you thought you were a disaster or the referral that finally comes thru with a much needed introduction.  Doesn't it feel great to negotiate for a higher compensation package and actually get it?

I believe if we're open minded, life has a way of bringing us new opportunities and life changing possibilities.

Wishing you a Happy Halloween filled with fun and unexpected new treats!

"Good Night, And Good Luck"

Laura Rivchun

Creative Writing

Well, here I am again burning the midnight candle hanging out with the vampires.  I did tell you I was a severe night owl, yes?  I'm the most peaceful and creative late at night.  I don't hear the neighbor's TV, music, loud hall conversations or the garden party I wasn't invited to.  Ah, silence is golden.  Ok creativity, do your thing.  Yo, creativity, I'm waiting.  HELLOO.....anyone out there?  HEY YOU!!  I think creativity "flew out the window". Talk about writer's cramp!  Oh well, guess I'll have to finish watching The Real Housewives of New Jersey Reunion (Part Two).

What has all this got to do with a blog post?  Absolutely nothing, nada, niyet (Russian for no).  It's sheer frivolity and sometimes that's not a bad thing.

Maybe I should start writing in the morning......


"Good Night, And Good Luck"

Laura Rivchun

  

  

  

  

Positive Thinking

Do you know the expression, "You are what you think"?  Did you ever read the book, The Power of Positive Thinking?  Positive thinking and attitude can change and improve our lives so we can be successful and happier.    So, if positive thinking can turn our lives around in a positive way, then, the opposite holds true if we think negatively.  I often wonder why so many of us focus on the negative aspects of ourselves and seem to forget all of our good traits and qualities.  Do you do this?  

I'm no expert on this subject but I can tell you this; it takes just as much energy to think positively as it does to think negatively.  Actually, it probably takes more energy to be negative.   I know.  Been there, done that.  When you're in job search mode, it's important to remain positive.  No one wants to hire someone who seems downbeat and down trodden.  

CAREER TIP:

Do whatever it takes to feel positive about yourself particularly before you have an interview.  Meditate, read affirmation cards, do creative visualization, anything that floats your boat to feel good.  Then go out and knock 'em dead! 

"Good Night, And Good Luck

Laura Rivchun

My Best Friends

I'm very blessed.  I have two wonderful sisters, a brother-in-law who is more like a brother (I call him Brudda), a nephew who is more like a son  (he calls me "Homey"), a boyfriend I adore (he sends me home with food) and a few really good friends.  Who could ask for anything else, right?  These people that mean the world to me all share the same thing in common.  They're my cheerleaders, champions and support.  There've been times I didn't  know what I would have done without them.  Do you have anyone in your life you can count on when things get tough?  I bet you do.  I consider all these relationships as though they were my best friends.  

The truth is, all of us need a strong support system particularly in these challenging times.  Changing careers or being out of work is pretty challenging.  While no one can hold your hand in the interview, deal with a difficult boss or make your career decisions, they can let you know they're in your corner and tell you they think you're the best thing since sliced bread.  No one can give you the confidence you need when you're out there pounding the pavement, but knowing they believe in you is the icing on the cake.    

"Good Night, And Good Luck"

Laura Rivchun

Out Of Your Element

   

Looking for a job is a job in itself.  There's research, networking, resume posting, interviewing, follow up, waiting for an offer, more follow up, negotiating the offer, blah blah blah.  It's exhausting just thinking about the whole process.  Does this sound familiar to you?  If you're one of those people who has had one job your entire career, you've been spared what some consider hair raising.

If you're offered a job and done your due diligence, you'll ask yourself (before you accept) if this is an environment you can see yourself spending 8-9 hours a day, 5 days a week.  Can you relate to the people you'll be working with or do they seem like aliens from another planet?  Will you be comfortable in a business suit when you're used to dressing in jeans?  Will the style of management be conducive to you being productive or will you work for someone who is disrespectful or a raging lunatic?  Company culture is VERY important when considering a position.  Ask yourself if you'll be out of your element or does this feel like a comfortable shoe that "fits".  If it doesn't feel comfortable, find yourself another pair of shoes.

"Good Night, And Good Luck"

Laura Rivchun 

Network!!

Have you ever been invited to a party or networking event and shyed away from going? That little voice inside says, "What could I possibly say that would interest someone I've never met before?" "What will I wear and besides I'm having a bad hair day"? Why are we reluctant to network and meet new people? I have some ideas that maybe you can relate to (here I go with my 2 cents again). 

People are basically shy - Shyness seems to be a universal trait in many of us. I was one of them until the age of 18 (my father hated that I finally discovered I had a mouth). Looking back, I realized if I worked on my shyness I would benefit in ways I never would have imagined. It didn't happen over night but in time, I felt more comfortable in my own skin.
Fear - Most people fear rejection. All of us have a vested interest in being accepted and liked. What's the worst that can happen if someone doesn't connect with you? You're still the same unique you. 
People underestimate their value - So many of us don't see ourselves and our impact on others. It's very empowering to know your own worth (and you need it in today's competitive job market).  So..

Make a list of all your positive qualities - then ask yourself, "why wouldn't someone want to meet me? I have a lot to offer".
Surround yourself with supportive people - there's nothing like having someone in your corner to cheer you on. If you can't see your great qualities, most likely others will.

Practice - (makes perfect) The more you do something, the easier it gets. Just get out and do it. Meeting new people can have great personal rewards. and networking doesn't have to be so scary.

 

"Good Night, And Good Luck"

Laura Rivchun