July 2010

CareerTips

From Ending to Beginning
By Ann Golden

A few years ago, Ann Golden started her own "new beginning" by joining her husband's firm as VP, Secretary and Treasurer. Leaving a stable, structured environment, either voluntarily or not, means that you must let go of the known world. This is an ending. Now you must get to the beginning. Most career transitions go from the ending of one job to the beginning of another, or at least, the search for another. This can be a great opportunity to find your next career, not just another job.

Endings are important and you can take an active role, choosing not be a “victim.” A career transition coach can take you through being clear in your own mind about what is actually ending. Be honest and objective with yourself and your coach about what you stand to lose. You will need to actively let go of old assumptions and old ways. Then you can assess what you have to gain.

Next could come a time of ambiguity and disorientation. You may feel adrift and frustrated, but, thinking positively, this could be the best time and opportunity of your life! Use the freedom this time gives you to explore new things, experiment with new ideas, and learn new information. Rather than becoming consumed by uncertainty, accept ambiguity.  Learn to communicate openly, keeping channels open in every direction, and accept assistance and suggestions from your coach and other people. This is the time to explore every network at your disposal, including family, friends, church, social and civic organizations and volunteer opportunities.

Click here to read Tips and Strategies for getting from Ending to Beginning.

Midlife Career Transition: Why Now?!
by Anne Civiletto

The increasing number of companies closing their doors for reasons ranging from offshoring to simply trying to weather the economic recession has affected the lives of many employees. Involuntary and unplanned career change can be a traumatic and difficult time of adult life. Employees may find themselves unable to cope with the idea of career transition after years of loyal service. Feelings of betrayal, denial, anxiety, depression and anger are natural reactions to job loss. Career transition is especially common during middle adulthood, and it is important to understand this period of change because it is through change, voluntary or involuntary, that we are able to grow.

In his book, The Season’s of a Man’s Life, psychologist Daniel Levinson describes three main
tasks which must be accomplished during middle adulthood: Reappraising The Past, Modifying
Existing Life- Structures, and Individuation. In Reappraising The Past, an individual reevaluates his understanding of past events and learning experiences. Often times, people learn that much of what they believed was illusion – like job security. Levinson notes that de-illusionment is important, normal, liberating, confusing and upsetting. It is during this time that others might think that a person is going through a “midlife crisis.” But, the realization of false beliefs and
illusions can feel like a crisis!

Click here to read the full article.

“To find a career to which you are adapted by nature, and then
to work hard at it, is about as near to a formula for success and
happiness as the world provides. One of the fortunate aspects of this
formula is that, granted the right career has been found, the hard
work takes care of itself. Then hard work is not hard work at all.”
Mark Sullivan

Five Rules for Interviewing
by Myles Golden

There’s an old saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”. This is so true and I must admit I am as guilty as the next person when it comes to forming first impressions. I have met many a person who went to an interview thinking, “This is it. I just know this job is for me,” only to be disappointed with the outcome of the interview. Some say, “It started going down hill when I entered the room. I just don’t understand. We had a great telephone interview, I have the qualifications and I feel that I am the best candidate”.

I will ask, “What do you think happened that may have taken you out of the running? Could it be that you were not in the moment for the interview? Maybe you made the wrong impression.” Deb Sofield, Executive Speech Coach, has spoken to our Monday morning roundtable in the past. Deb is a member of the National Speakers Association and is a popular keynote speaker for many events.

I want to share a few adaptations of her Rules for the Road that are applicable to interviewing:

1. Lighten up – keep a relaxed face. In the first two minutes of a meeting, interviewers notice appearance first, so look professional and comfortable at the same time. Smile, gesture, and make eye contact. I agree with Deb that dressing appropriately is important to that first impression. I suggest you dress one level above the suggested dress code of the company. Don’t hesitate to inquire when you accept the appointment.

Read the rest of the Rules for the Road.

Golden Career Strategies Speaks:
Recent Speaking Engagements & Sponsorships

Pam Wessel was quoted by Anastasia Howard in her article "Time to gear up for life planning"

Myles Golden spoke at Simpsonville United Methodist Church June 1, 2010.

Myles Golden and Pam Wessel spoke to Dynamic Realty on "Networking to Grow Your Business" June 2, 2010

GCS ~ Silver Sponsor for GSATC (Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson Technology Council)

Myles Golden Interviewed on SC Business Review with Mike Switzer
Friday, May 14, 2010
Narrative: Could many college graduates soon be returning home to their parent’s payroll?
Description: Mike Switzer interviews Myles Golden, president of Golden Career Strategies in Greenville, SC. www.goldencareerstrategies.com

Emotional Intelligence
by Myles Golden