The Smart Start Coach Linda Lopeke

The Smart Start Coach â€" Linda Lopeke A couple of months ago I had a chat with Linda Lopeke, who teaches at a university in Canada. Linda has had a career outside of the university but designed an MBA-level course called Fortune 500 Intelligence. From what I can tell this has been an excellent testing ground for her to refine her Smart Start program, as she works with hopefuls and wannabes (I was an MBA student so I can say that :p). Linda has a program for the rest of us (meaning, not her students) where she makes some very strong claims. I dont think the claims are far-fetched. A lot of what is being taught is not necessarily new stuff although professional coaches are going to not only base their coaching on principles, but know the trends, fads and current career management stuff a lot better than someone who isnt immersed in it all day long. You can get a taste of her program here, with the free stuff. You can get an idea of what she teaches here, with the Cash for College challenge questions. Listen to her on the radio or read a press release here, to get to know her and her program better. Her home page is really long but has a lot more info, if you are interested. The pricing seems nominal for someone that wants to get started on the career fast track you can read all about it here. Linda has a system, with newsletters and communication catered to those that are trying to figure out how to get ahead. She has teleseminar classes that you can dial into, and I think peer communication opportunities to get to know other people that are in the program. This isnt a replacement for one-on-one career coaching but if you have been hesitant to jump into something like this, I think for the price, its a great alternative. Do you have a coach yet? Do you have a mentor? Has it been beneficial? The Smart Start Coach â€" Linda Lopeke A couple of months ago I had a chat with Linda Lopeke, who teaches at a university in Canada. Linda has had a career outside of the university but designed an MBA-level course called Fortune 500 Intelligence. From what I can tell this has been an excellent testing ground for her to refine her Smart Start program, as she works with hopefuls and wannabes (I was an MBA student so I can say that :p). Linda has a program for the rest of us (meaning, not her students) where she makes some very strong claims. I dont think the claims are far-fetched. A lot of what is being taught is not necessarily new stuff although professional coaches are going to not only base their coaching on principles, but know the trends, fads and current career management stuff a lot better than someone who isnt immersed in it all day long. You can get a taste of her program here, with the free stuff. You can get an idea of what she teaches here, with the Cash for College challenge questions. Listen to her on the radio or read a press release here, to get to know her and her program better. Her home page is really long but has a lot more info, if you are interested. The pricing seems nominal for someone that wants to get started on the career fast track you can read all about it here. Linda has a system, with newsletters and communication catered to those that are trying to figure out how to get ahead. She has teleseminar classes that you can dial into, and I think peer communication opportunities to get to know other people that are in the program. This isnt a replacement for one-on-one career coaching but if you have been hesitant to jump into something like this, I think for the price, its a great alternative. Do you have a coach yet? Do you have a mentor? Has it been beneficial?

Who Needs a Bio and Why

Who Needs a Bio and Why Most job seekers will use two documents in their job search; their resume and cover letter. That’s a good start, but how about professional bio as well? They are no longer just for authors, musicians and politicians. Anyone that has an online presence across social media and blogging (which is just about everyone nowadays) can benefit from one. This article looks at what a bio is, where it is used and why you need to get one written up sooner rather than later. What exactly is a bio? A bio is the story-based version of your professional life. The information provided is similar to that of your CV or resume but the format is less formal. You are free to highlight the bits of your career you are proud of and omit anything that won’t help you. As it is a story, you can throw in interesting snippets about yourself and thus injecting some personality into your bio. The purpose of a bio is to tell the reader who you are and what you do, listing your experience and achievements, and backing your claims up with facts and figures. All these parts will form the credibility of your personal brand. When is a bio used? Your bio can be used a across a number of situations, here are a few: The “About” page on your website and/or blog, visitors click on this to find out about YOU, not the version of WordPress you use. The bio/summary/about section of your social media profiles. This is what most people will find when Googling your name. You will need a longer bio for sites like LinkedIn, a micro version for Twitter. In any marketing materials, proposals and quotes you send out to prospective customers. Submitted for public speaking, presenting or training pitches (for speaking, you could also use a one-sheet). Designed to give the event organizer a quick overview of what you can do and hopefully book you. Included in any publications such as books, e-books, reports, professional documents and even guest blog posts you author. Job search, employers will definitely look at your online bio and oftentimes request it along with your CV or resume as it is more concise than your other documents. Why should you get a bio? To stay professional and credible in the eyes of current and potential clients and of course potential employers. Every job seeker, career advancer and professional should develop his or her professional biography today. Whenever you email or leave a message for someone you never dealt with before, you can expect to be checked out online. Your bio is a brand building marketing tool that will entice the reader to want to contact you. There is stiff competition out there and for you to differentiate, it’s imperative you have a well crafted bio that points out what makes you unique. Your professional bio gives a quick showcase of what sets you apart from the crowd. A bio tells whoever reading it that you are not just doing your day job to pay the rent, it’s your passion and you are proud to tell the world about it. Your bio is the foundation of your personal branding toolkit and it’s potentially the most important text you write in your professional life. Conclusion A winning bio can tip the balance in your favor. It’s all about first impressions, and your bio is probably read before you even meet the reader. A convincing bio allows recruiters, HR representatives and hiring managers to understand your strengths and achievements, hopefully leading to that great job opportunity coming your way. The best part of having a great bio is that it can be used again and again, and you are free to update it whenever you feel like it. Related: Write a Bio Like a Pro in 8 Quick Steps.

Five Things To Include In Your Bathroom Renovation

Five Things To Include In Your Bathroom Renovation Do you live in an older house built before the 1980s? Although the bathrooms were perfectly functional and aesthetic when they were built, they’re outdated. We’re in the 21st century and what was trendy when your home was built is ugly today. Is the shower valve outdated and no longer on the market? Is the vanity too low? Is your lighting outdated? Whatever reason you want to remodel your bathroom, renovation can make it more fun and enjoyable while elevating the value of your property. Creating a wonderful retreat out of your existing bathroom is all about being wise and adding only what matters. Minimalist bathrooms are trendy today. Here are the 5 things to include in your bathroom renovation for enhanced storage, functionality and comfort: Budget Bathroom renovation, just like any other kind of project, can cost a lot of money. Therefore, there’s a need to come up with a working budget to guide purchases and the project at large. Luxurious fixtures and custom tiling can be costly. Plan for what you can afford and include labor costs in your budget. Tub or Shower Do you need a tub or shower in your bathroom? Can your bathroom accommodate both? Determine whether you need a shower, tub or both in your bathroom. Although tubs increase the value of homes, only fix one in your bathroom if you love taking baths. Otherwise, it would be a waste of space and money, getting a tub in your bathroom. Storage Include storage in your bathroom renovation plan to keep it clutter-free, especially if you have kids or live with other people in your home. Apart from adding a modern vanity, consider a recessed medicine cabinet to add more storage space in your bathroom. Install it above your vanity for easy access. Recessed storage gives a sleek modern look in your bathing space. What’s more, you save yourself from banging your head on the cabinet when using your bathroom sink. Better Lighting Bathrooms need proper lighting because they often get less natural light. Add more lighting or change your existing lights to enhance your bathroom’s ambiance and functionality. A dim main light is perfect for prolonged baths if you’re adding a tub in your bathroom. Install recessed fixtures near your mirror for proper lighting while shaving or applying makeup. Add lighting in the shower for more fun and better sight while showering. Pick out the  best vanity mirrors   you can find to help reflect light in your bathroom and make the room feel larger.   Also consider installing skylights if your budget can allow for that. Windows Bathrooms require proper ventilation. Humidity trapped in your bathroom can cause bad odor. Although bathroom fans can help keep your bathing space fresh, the effect of natural ventilation is unmatched. Include a window in your bathroom renovation plan to keep it mildew- and mold-free and clean. Leave your bathroom door open after using it to help ventilate your bathing space naturally. Talk to your contractor or architect to help you choose a good window design. Make sure it has translucent glass such as frosted glass for privacy and a sill that slopes downwards for free water flow. Bathroom renovation can increase the functionality and efficiency of your bathing space, in addition to making it more stylish and attractive. These factors are critical when planning to renovate your bathroom, hence the need to consider them before embarking on the actual project.

Secrets Of the Expert Business Traveler

Secrets Of the Expert Business Traveler You’ve seen her â€" the Expert Traveler. Whether starting or finishing her trip, she looks fresh and relaxed. As you wrestle your large suitcase off the baggage belt, you wonder how she manages with just a small roll-aboard and a handbag. Wonder no more! Here are her secrets for easier travel. Pre-travel Finish packing the day before you go; avoid  last minute rushing. Tickets, boarding passes, passport, power cords, tech: Check! Choose reliable, wrinkle-free clothes in the same color family that mix and match. You need less than you think. For a 4-day business trip, 2 suits with 3 tops and a couple of scarves make a fresh look every day without checked luggage. Have 2 pre-packed toiletry kits: shampoo, one with the minimum in a small plastic baggie (for cabin transport) and one with the basics plus extras (for checked bags). Pack efficiently: roll soft items, put small ones in shoes, use the little spaces between. Watch a video on packing well, like this one from Heathrow Airport, for more tips Invest in good luggage.   Knowing how to buy luggage that works for you and the kinds of traveling you do will help make all parts of the trip more pleasant. Going to the same place often? Try to take the same flights and stay in the same hotel every time. Routine helps you relax. You need fewer clothes  than you think; most people dont use everything they pack On the  Road Wear comfortable travel clothes: low-heeled shoes without laces, comfortable tops and pants. Travel in business casual clothes in case your checked bag is lost or you meet a colleague on the plane. Bring a scarf or shawl in case its cold. Keep as regular a schedule as possible: mimic your home pre-sleep and waking routine. Have trouble sleeping in hotel rooms? Bring a pillowcase from home, or scented oil to help you relax. Eat light and healthy: a big dinner is tempting, especially when the company is paying. But you’ll feel terrible  if that heavy meal keeps you awake all night. Eat a colorful salad for veggies, and skip dessert. Find light snacks like nuts instead of candy and cake. Maintain your fitness program: it relieves stress, boosts your energy and clears your head. If you’re a runner, ask the hotel for a safe and interesting route; you’ll have the added bonus of seeing more of the city than just the hotel and office. Drink wisely: drink more water than wine, and leave the bar early. Alcohol and late hours plus dry airplane and hotel air make you pale and fatigued. Use your ‘out of office’ message: Warn people that you are on the road and your answers might be delayed. They will understand, and you won’ t spend all night answering email instead of resting up for tomorrow’s meetings. Stick with smart travel habits and youll feel better, work better, and have a better time Post-travel Recovery time: No need to jump right onto the hamster wheel again! Reserve one night for good night’s sleep in your own bed before going to the office. Unpacking is easy: all your clothes go into the laundry and toiletry bags stay in your suitcase, so they are ready to go again. Refill anything that’s running low and make sure the plastic bag still seals. Rehydrate: one more day with more water than wine will help you recover from the dry airplane air and bounce back from the trip. Stress-free travel gives you more energy on the trip. These tips will have you rolling on and off the plane with all the grace and style of the experienced traveler! Image credits: Main    Packing      Home

The Writing Skills Section of Your Resume

The Writing Skills Section of Your ResumeThe writing skills section of your resume should be designed to highlight your previous work experience. The information included in this section should be highly relevant to the job you are applying for. It should highlight your professional accomplishments, areas of skill and trade which you have demonstrated through your past experiences.The information about writing skills must be specific to the job you are applying for. If the position is one that involves input from the public or involves creative writing and presentation, the writing skills section must be written in the present tense. In other words, the most appropriate resume formatting will allow for past references to be referenced in the present tense. This will help to communicate the fact that you have the necessary writing skills to perform the task at hand.If the writing skills required for the job at hand are related to writing or design, then past projects and assignments a re acceptable. These may be linked to your current employment, so that it appears as though you were able to complete a specific project despite your limited working hours. In addition, when past writing tasks are listed in the writing skills section of your resume, they should be linked back to the information that you provide on your application.The writing skills section should highlight your abilities and specialties. You can achieve this through project work that has been completed that shows these skills. This will demonstrate your ability to write, to express yourself creatively and to understand how to express yourself clearly and succinctly. This is exactly the type of writing skills that the prospective employer seeks to see.The writing skills section of your resume should also show past projects and assignments where you have had to use creative writing and presentation. This is the type of writing that you have done in the past that is critical to the success of the work you are trying to do in the present. It will also show your awareness of how to correctly convey information in writing. It is also good to include references to any awards or honors that you may have received for this past work.The section of your resume that relates to special skills should be bolded to show that this information is specifically requested. In addition, this should be listed as 'WII' which will allow you to put the work ethic you demonstrate in writing into an example. It will also provide the reader with additional information regarding the work that you have already accomplished.Once the specific areas of special skills are identified, it is best to consider filling out the rest of the resume section with a listing of accomplishments. This is the section that has more information than the other sections and is where the emphasis should be placed. It is recommended that the writing skills section of your resume be left blank.The key to succeeding in this resume f ormatting is to read the rules and apply them as written. Don't try to read a resume that is not designed specifically for your needs. This format will only take you so far, but you can also include details about the skills and accomplishments you already have on your application.

Unemployment Extension Update

Unemployment Extension Update 0 Flares 0 Flares Legislation Update On October 27th Senate agreed on an 87-13 procedural vote to extend unemployment insurance.  A final vote will take place sometime this week, but all signs point to unemployment insurance being extended further. What does this mean? If your unemployment insurance benefits have been exhausted before the passing of this bill, you WILL be eligible for additional weeks of unemployment benefits.  However, be aware that this bill is NOT retroactive.  Those looking to receive a jumbo lump sum payment dating back to when benefits were exhausted will be mildly disappointed.  Dont frown too hard, your benefits will begin immediately moving forward. *** Legislation can change from State to State so check y our individual State Unemployment Office for more information. Do you have questions on unemployment benefits, or any horror stories to share? Leave a comment below with your question or unemployment horror story.  Many people have exhausted their unemployment benefits and need this extension.  Dont hold back, I want to hear from you.

Aspiring senior managers guide to writing a career development plan - Margaret Buj - Interview Coach

Aspiring senior manager’s guide to writing a career development plan Finding yourself in a position of power for the first time can be daunting. You have a team of workers who now look to you for guidance across every aspect of their work life. That doesn’t just mean assigning work and telling them what to do. An employee needs a clearly defined long-term plan to steer them through. Having an endgame to shoot for can help to shepherd a worker to where they need to be at every milestone of their career. But how do you create that plan? It’s impossible to just sit down and hammer a career matrix out. There’s a lot which goes into the creation of one. Some of the most important factors include: ?             Talking to your employees about their goals ?             Setting scheduled review dates to assess progress ?             Setting your own goals which correspond with their advancement The most important thing to remember is there’s no one-plan-fits-all solution. Everyone is different, with altering ambitions, skills and desired outcomes. Find what works for each employee on an individual basis. To find out more, be sure to read this useful guide from the University of York. They tackle everything you need to know, so check it out if you’re struggling: https://online.york.ac.uk/resources/aspiring-senior-managers-guide/