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How to Answer the Dreaded Salary Question
One of the trickiest questions you might face in a job interview is, “What salary are you expecting?” This question can be uncomfortable because discussing money is often sensitive, and your answer can significantly impact your chances of securing the job. Here are some strategies to handle this question effectively. Put Off the Conversation Try…
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Do You Work For A Bad Boss Or A Good Boss?
Everyone knows there are plenty of bad bosses out there. We have: Bosses who rarely communicate with you and who are often unavailable when you need them. Bosses who assume no accountability for their actions and are quick to blame others to deflect negative criticism from themselves. Bosses who are incompetent either technically, interpersonally, managerially,…
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We Are Products of Our Past, But We Don’t Have To be Prisoners of It
Today’s title may sound familiar. It’s taken from Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life. I’ve chosen it because it speaks to the importance of understanding how our past influences our behaviours, attitudes, and career choices. From an early age, our family, education, and social environment significantly impact our career paths. For instance, parents often influence…
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Say It Like You Mean It: Bring Passion and Precision to Your Interview
Say It Like You Mean It: Bring Passion and Precision to Your Interview How you speak in an interview impacts how interviewers perceive you. Even well-qualified candidates run the risk of not getting the job if they speak in an unprofessional manner. It doesn’t matter if you are being interviewed by Zoom or in person,…
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Don’t Make a Liar Out of Yourself
Starting a new job can be stressful, but the transition does not have to be full of tension and anxiety. With careful planning and the right attitude, you can easily make a successful shift to a new job.Remember, all eyes are on you during your first 90 days (or longer)! But this is not just…
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How to Use Your Personal Connections to Generate Job Leads
Most people hate the thought of networking. That’s because it conjures up thoughts of the insincere glad-hander you find at networking events—the fellow who presses a business card into your hand while he looks over your shoulder for someone else more important to talk to. This is why I avoid the term networking when discussing…
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How to Talk About Being Fired in Interviews
Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially when you’re faced with questions about past experiences that may be sensitive or challenging to discuss. One such question is explaining why you were fired from your last job. While it’s a delicate topic, approaching it with honesty, accountability, and a focus on growth can help you manage this…
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Bouncing Back from a Poor Performance Review
A poor performance review can be devastating, especially if it is unexpected. It can feel like a significant setback, stirring up disappointment, confusion, and even fear of losing your job. For sure, your confidence will be shaken. If you happen to find yourself in a similar situation, here are actionable steps to help you recover…
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The 6 Best Ways to Leave a Lasting Impression in an Interview
In the last couple of years, we’ve seen a significant shift back towards in-person interviews after a period of reliance on virtual platforms like Zoom. This signals at least a partial return to traditional hiring practices, where the importance of personal connection and the subtleties of communication play a role in the hiring decision. While…
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Should You Apply for a Job You’re Not Fully Qualified For?
Imagine meeting a young environmental engineer fresh out of university, burning with the desire to make a difference but facing the daunting task of applying for jobs with little or no work experience. I met such an engineer several years ago. He had just come from an informational interview with an engineering firm, who met…
