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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…
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How Long Should You Stay in a Job?
Determining the length of stay in a job is a nuanced decision that professionals and managers face throughout their careers. The answer is not one-size-fits-all, as it depends on various factors, including career goals, job satisfaction, and market trends. Years ago, longevity in a job was seen as a sign of loyalty and stability. But…
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Writing Cover Letters That Solve Employers’ Problems
A common mistake many job seekers make is either neglecting to include a cover letter withapplications or using it merely to echo one’s skills. This goes against the grain of mostconventional job search wisdom, which is to find ways to stand out in a competitive job market. I want to emphasize the importance of writing…
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When Life Throws You a Curveball: A Christmas Reflection
As we immerse ourselves in the festive cheer and warmth of the Christmas season, I want to share a personal story that echoes the profound messages of this special time of year. This past summer, I faced an unexpected challenge. I contracted Legionella bacteria from a hot tub in PEI. This is extremely rare and…
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Where Do You Spend Your Time?
The theory goes that you spend your time where you receive the greatest return. Successful salespeople, for example, focus their time and attention on customers who buy, or will buy, the most products from them. However, this principle appears to take a different turn when it comes to managing a team. It seems that managers…