The Voice of Job Seekers

This week, my guest is Lorraine K. Lee, the former editor of LinkedIn News and Prezi. She is now a Trainer, Professor, Speaker, and author of “Unforgettable Presence.” 

Highlights:

Lorraine emphasizes the importance of having both confidence and presence during job interviews. She explains that presence doesn’t only relate to executive levels but is crucial for everyone in their career. 

Presence video with intentional tech setup, energy, and aesthetics, collectively termed as the “T method.”

Lorraine highlights how non-verbal cues, such as body language and hand gestures, influence perceptions during video interviews.

Lorraine discusses the significance of video presence, particularly in virtual interviews, where technical aspects such as lighting, sound, and framing play a crucial role.

Eliminating backlighting, ensuring eye contact, and using gestures naturally to appear more personable.

We delve into overcoming challenges faced by new graduates during interviews. Lorraine points out that being intentional about one’s presence on platforms like LinkedIn and during virtual meetings contributes to building a professional reputation over time.

Lorraine shares insights on handling interviews with AI avatars, emphasizing the importance of a positive setup and practicing with real people to get feedback.

Lorraine advises job seekers to focus on storytelling and to convey their passion for the role to create a stronger connection with the interviewer.

In another segment, my article from last week, “No! Really Breathes Life Into Your Career And Reclaim Time!”

I was invited to participate in a job search panel at St. Xavier University along with James Miller (who coordinated the event), Lauren Milligan, Nathan Peck, and Dr. Vincent Alexander Davis. Approximately 30-40 students attended and asked questions in areas such as resumes, career changes, job scams, networking, and other related topics listed below.

This was recorded in March 2024.

This lecture, sponsored by Enterprise, explored the current job market, the importance of soft skills, networking, job scams, effective interviewing, and strategies for securing internships and jobs.

Job Market Trends (2024 vs. 2014)

The job market is now more fragmented by industry, with varying opportunities across different fields.

– Tech and healthcare allow for “overemployment” (holding multiple high-paying jobs remotely).

– Awareness of burnout and mental health has increased since the pandemic.

Entry-level jobs are becoming increasingly challenging to find due to automation and AI, with a greater emphasis on internships.

The Importance of Networking and Soft Skills

– Soft skills (communication, teamwork, adaptability) are essential and less commonly developed in today’s remote/tech environments.

Networking is crucial for finding jobs and gaining insight into various industries.

Maintaining positive professional relationships is essential to stand out.

– Informational interviews (short conversations with professionals) help you gather career insights and expand your network.

– LinkedIn is a vital tool for networking and keeping track of professional contacts.

Job Search Safety and Avoiding Scams

– Job scams are now sophisticated: scammers may create realistic websites or impersonate real employees.

– Never pay application fees or buy equipment for a job.

– Verify recruiter identities via LinkedIn and reverse image searches.

– Report scams to the FTC, BBB, or your state attorney general.

Interview Strategies and Questions

– Always research the company before an interview; avoid asking questions with easily found answers.

– Ask about factors that contribute to someone’s success beyond their job description.

– Inquire about workplace culture and organizational fit.

– Ask for a tour if interviewing in person to gauge the environment and stand out.

Securing and Maximizing Internships

– Paid internships are prioritized; unpaid ones are discouraged due to equity concerns.

– During internships, you are expected to ask questions and learn—track what you learn and avoid repeatedly asking the same questions.

– Use resources like Glassdoor for company insights, but prioritize direct conversations with current employees (informational interviews).

– Volunteering or project work for organizations (like Chambers of Commerce or nonprofits) can build experience and networks.

Working Abroad

Carefully research both the job and the country’s culture before making a move.

– International experience is valuable if well-planned and aligned with personal and career goals.

Key Terms & Definitions Mentioned

A splintered job market: Sectors of the economy experience differing trends and opportunities.

Soft skills: Interpersonal abilities like communication, teamwork, and adaptability.

Networking: Building relationships that can lead to career opportunities.

Informational interview: A brief meeting to learn about a role or industry from an experienced professional.

Job scam: Fraudulent job offers designed to steal personal info or money.

Organizational fit: How well a person matches a company’s culture and work style.

Action Items / Next Steps

Set up and update your LinkedIn profile, and connect with career coaches and peers.

– Schedule informational interviews with alumni or professionals in your field.

– Research companies before applying or interviewing; use Glassdoor and LinkedIn.

– Contact the Career Development Center for internship support.

– Prepare thoughtful questions for interviews and track workplace experiences.

I reflect on my extensive experience since 2011, emphasizing the importance of engaging with industry organizations, building social proof through online work, and being generous without expecting immediate returns.

• Job seekers should focus on value exchange and thoughtful giving to build meaningful connections.
• Preparation and strategic planning are crucial steps in the job search process.
• Participate in professional communities and organizations, leveraging platforms such as YouTube and LinkedIn to showcase your skills.
• Stay apprised of industry trends. 
• To counter desperation, he advocates for a proactive approach, emphasizing continuous learning, networking, and adaptability.
• Resilience is key, and be open to new job search strategies. Stay relevant and prepared in a fluctuating job market.

Tired of seeing job scams? Me too! I talk about avoiding and combating them on The Job Scam Report. Subscribe! 

Thank you for tuning into the Voice of Job Seekers podcast. I’m Mark Anthony Dyson. I’ve been doing this podcast for nearly 12 years, and my blog has been around since July 2011. If you haven’t already done so, I encourage you to explore the available articles and podcasts. We’ve had over 300 episodes featuring more than 200 guests, including other content creators, career coaches, and business people.

For the first time, I’ll do a series of solo episodes to share my thoughts and gather your feedback. I’ve been exploring AI in the context of job seeking and have written articles on this topic since 2019. AI is here to stay, and I want to discuss how it impacts job searches, comparing Search Everywhere Optimization to traditional Search Engine Optimization.

I’ve written for various outlets like Recruiter.com and PayScale.com, ensuring my work is optimized for search engines. However, AI offers a new dimension by providing comprehensive profiles and citations of my work across various platforms. For job seekers, it’s essential to dominate your narrative and present a digitized reputation.

Your work must be through academic publications, podcasts, videos, or newsletters. Start building these digital breadcrumbs now to attract potential employers or recruiters. That is, if you want to enhance your possibilities.

Consistently sharing your expertise through various mediums can significantly enhance your online presence. In conclusion, whether you create video content, publish articles, or engage in thoughtful online discussions, it’s essential to establish your brand authority and ensure you’re easily searchable.

Utilize AI and SEO strategies to make yourself more discoverable. Even as an audio-centric podcast, I emphasize the power of video content for deeper engagement.

Welcome back to The Voice of Job Seekers podcast. I took an unannounced break from this podcast to concentrate on content for “The Job Scam Report” podcast. Some of you subscribe to the newsletter and podcast. Many good things have been happening there, so it has been quite busy.

In March of 2024, I was invited to join a panel (actually two) at St. Xavier’s University in Chicago. The panel consisted of Nathan Peck, an Associate Professor, James Miller, Shared Governance President, and Lauren Milligan, Founder of ResuMayDay, a Resume Writer and Career Coach. Each session had about 30-50 students.

Below are some of the highlights of the 75-minute panel:

Craft a Strong Resume: We encouraged students to tailor their resumes to highlight relevant skills and experiences for each job application, ensuring they’re clear and visually appealing. Lauren provided a basic overview of the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) and its role in hiring and emphasized the need for simplicity. She also added how ChatGPT can be helpful in the process.

Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile: The panel collectively agreed students must create a compelling LinkedIn profile to reflect their professional brand, including a professional photo, detailed work experience, and engaging summaries. We discussed how LinkedIn can facilitate the expansion of their network, and learning from successful career industry professionals through their profiles.

Network Actively: We advised students on building and nurturing professional relationships through networking events, social media, and industry groups to increase job opportunities and get referrals. Networking is vital for career advancement today, especially for introverts. It’s a great connection hub for building relationships with present and future collaborators.

Develop Interview Skills: Practice common interview questions and situational responses to prepare for interviews, enhancing confidence and communication. Lauren and I honed in on informational interviews as a tool. Students should do many of them to hone their interviewing skills, add depth to their network and industry knowledge, and accept feedback as constructive direction.

Create a Multi-Tiered Job Search Strategy: Implement various job search methods, such as job boards, company websites, recruitment agencies, and direct networking, to maximize reach. The college experience is an opportunity to use as much of your learning to bring value to an employer, using your strengths to stand out.

Research Potential Employers: Investigate companies of interest to understand their culture, values, and recent news, preparing insightful interview questions. Lauren suggested how ChatGPT could help you understand the job description to help you appeal to employers.

Stay Current on Industry Trends: Follow industry publications and join professional organizations to stay informed about changes and skills in demand. Participating in those organizations gives you a front seat to learn, network, and train, using the experience to prepare for industry job opportunities.

Utilize Informational Interviews: Contact professionals in your desired field for informational interviews to gain insights and advice on navigating your career path. It’s a good time to ask people and discern if you’re a good fit. What makes someone succeed in this industry versus someone else? What makes someone fail? What competencies in this industry are valued the most?

Follow Up After Interviews: Send a thank-you email to interviewers to express appreciation, reiterate your interest in the position, and underline key points discussed. Follow-up with the interviewer is rare among young professionals, but it may be a way to stand out among competitors.

Be Resilient and Persistent: Understand job searching is challenging. Maintaining a positive mindset, staying persistent in pursuing opportunities, and learning from rejections is vital.

You can look for episodes every other week. Subscribe to this podcast in your favorite podcast directory.

Companies want qualified people to do the job, and stories that combine the company’s heartbeat with the unique narratives of the candidates win.  

This is the most robust resume discussion I’ve had in the 12+ years of this podcast. 

In this episode, we discuss trends in resume writing, which help you write more purposefully, tell a story, and move employers to call you. More resume writers and career professionals, including myself and my guest, Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, advise your resume, along with your LinkedIn profile, tell a complete story. We discuss storytelling everywhere, the importance of focus, and social media.

Do your resume and social profiles tell a story that helps your knowledge, skills, and abilities stand out? Here are three ways to provide feedback:

1. Call and leave a voicemail at 708.365.9822
2. Email: mark@thevoiceofjobseekers.com
3. Go to TheVoiceofJobSeekers.com/72, press the Send Voicemail button on the left, activate your laptop microphone, and leave a message.

Jacqui (@ValueIntoWords) is one of the 37 Master Resume Writers quoted in many national publications, including TIME, Forbes.com, and FOX Business. She blogs for U.S. News, Glassdoor.com, and her  blog CareerTrend.com

As a resume writer, I was reminded how important the process of ascertaining the job seeker. Jacqui loves the journalistic approach of the who, when, why, what, and how. I wanted to talk with Jacqui about trends, not necessarily how to write a resume. These days, employers are looking to shorten the time they review resumes and what gives them the most information in minimal time.

Here are some of the highlights of our discussion:

• • We discuss the significance of the visual resume “The Resume Infographic” by Hannah Morgan and how the resume has evolved since 2009.
  • Jacqui stated that storytelling had gained a drumbeat as a mantra, reaching epic proportions in social media circles.
  • With headlines and subheadlines, content has become more affluent, detailed, and brief, but the words matter the most. Jacqui tries to add texture to clients by identifying the who, what, when, why, and how.
  • The visual element enhances the content since words are the most critical element. Charts and graphs illustrate a snapshot view of some of the content. They condense content or give condensed content a top for skimmers or readers who want dashes of excitement.
  • Jacqui stated that a visual resume shouldn’t be your primary resume, but there is an audience for “visual” as a part of your web portfolio.
  • People need to slow down and think through the foundational stories behind visuals to become more meaningful and know they have roots – understanding who you’ve become and why that matters.
  • LinkedIn has become a channel that can model the value shown on a resume. Jacqui says that 90% of her clients will have a LinkedIn profile and a resume.
  • LinkedIn has expanded from an acceptable static profile to a more dynamic one. Job seekers must consider their audience and customize their participation.
  • Social media can now be used to view or preview the epilog of your resume. Although it’s an old term, it says so much. We should expand our view of a resume.
  • Everyone should know their story from the beginning to today and into the future.
  • I asked Jacqui to share how the stories will differ between the resume and social media. In your process, you may end up in a different career position while enhancing the story elements.

I hope you enjoy this rare 80+ minute conversation. I wrestled with editing it to be shorter, but I felt this conversation and perspective are rarely published. Enjoy!

This episode explores the complexities of HR background checks with Ghislaine Knauff, who has worked in HR operations for a Fortune 100 company for the past 15 years. This discussion rarely occurs on podcasts and would help many job seekers understand background checks have many snares and nuances. 

I learned a lot, not realizing how much could happen along the way. As you’ll see in the episode, it’s not just what an employer says about a former employee. I’ve shared notes with you, but hearing them will add much context to my quick talking points. 

Highlights: 

Hiring Process Delays:

– Hiring delays are common and frustrating for candidates.

– Varies by industry; some are highly regulated (e.g., financial services), requiring extensive background checks.

Factors contributing to delays:

  – Industry-specific regulatory requirements

  – Comprehensive background checks (e.g., criminal history)

  – Candidate responsiveness

Role of HR in Hiring:

– HR’s involvement begins after the resume review and initial interview.

– HR checks applications for employment history, education, and criminal records.

– Verification processes may include contacting previous employers and checking licensing databases.

Employment and Background Checks:

– Background checks vary by industry.

– Common checks include employment history, education verification, and criminal background checks.

– Performance issues noted in past employment may be considered but are only sometimes a dealbreaker.

References:

– The importance of references can vary.

– References are only sometimes required in some industries.

– Ideal references include supervisors or peers who can vouch for work ethic and teamwork.

Challenges in the Hiring Process

– Delays obtaining information from external sources (e.g., understaffed courts, previous employers without automated systems).

– Differences in checks for industry-specific roles.

– Potential application discrepancies (e.g., incorrect employment dates) can lead to distrust.

 Social Media and Hiring

– Social media checks are handled separately, not as part of initial background checks.

– The impact of social media presence can be significant if it is negative (e.g., hate speech).

– It is essential to maintain a professional online presence.

Industry Trends and Advice

– Some industries are consistently hiring; consider exploring new fields if you need help finding a job.

– Skills can be transferable across industries.

– Research and understanding of where skills fit can broaden job opportunities.

 Conclusion

– Encouragement to explore different career opportunities.

– Contact Just Lane via LinkedIn for more insights.

– Stay informed about upcoming job-related podcasts and resources.

I conducted another interview with Erica Mattison of One Life Tools and EMCC at the National Career Development Association in San Diego.

Erica is a career coach and workshop facilitator at her company, Erica Mattison Coaching & Consulting LLC. She just published a book, “Clarifying What Matters: Creating Direction for Your Career.“

Highlights:

Erica discusses her journey into career coaching, which began through her job creation and advocacy for environmental practices at her university, leading to her role as a sustainability coordinator.

She highlights the growing opportunities in climate tech and sustainability across various sectors.

Erica emphasizes the importance of non-linear career paths and leveraging diverse backgrounds for sustainability roles.

She shares that she aids job seekers and executives in developing leadership through storytelling and personal insights, using tools like One Life Tools.

Erica reveals insights from her forthcoming book, which guides navigating non-linear careers and achieving clarity.

We emphasize the importance of leveraging strengths and experiences for career development and encourage job seekers to explore the sustainability sector. 

Be sure you get my FREE eGuide, “125 Practical Modern Job Search Tips 2024-25!”

Tired of seeing job scams? Don’t know how to tell between an actual job ad or a fake one? Join my newsletter and community on Substack at markanthonydyson.substack.com!

This week’s episode features a panel discussion with Porschia Parker-Griffin, Mher Mardoyan, and Kevin D Turner. We discuss the job market turbulence and its nuances, along with strategies for dealing with it. 

Mher is a Career Coach, LinkedIn Profile Strategist, and Job Search Coach. He hosts the YouTube show “Get Hired Show.”

Porschia is an Organizational Consultant and Business Coach who helps her clients with job search strategies. She is the host of “Career Podcast 101.” 

Kevin helps clients with branding, LinkedIn Profile Optimization, and Career Coaching. His YouTube channel is “KeepRockinLinkedIn.”

Get my FREE Guide, “125 Practical Modern Job Search Tips 2024-25!!

Highlights: 

 Porschia offers her perspective, noting that many clients find it more challenging to get responses from job applications, dubbing it a “September Slowdown” instead.

Kevin further discusses the uncertainty in employment due to the political atmosphere and how AI makes the job market more competitive by helping job seekers optimize their applications.

We agree building a solid presence on the platform is essential.

Mher advises following and engaging with companies, while Kevin highlights the necessity of posting relevant content consistently and leveraging market value filters to appear higher in recruiter searches.

Porschia underscores the significance of LinkedIn headlines and warns against sharing too much personal information during interviews.

We also touch on the importance of networking. Mher and Kevin agree that building genuine, non-transactional relationships is crucial. 

If you haven’t already, subscribe to my “The Job Scam Report” on Substack to stay apprised of the latest job scam news and solutions you can use to avoid and defend against them!