Sunday, December 10, 2017


Whether you are leaving the organization voluntarily or have been asked to do so, you need to serve your notice period, which is a policy that every company follows. It begins with your resignation and these last few days in the job reveal your true self to your bosses and other employees as you are no longer trying to please them. Don't consider it as a relaxing time in the organization, because it actually is a period where you can wrap up all of your pending responsibilities, and try to maintain good relations with your colleagues since you are only going to leave the organization, not the industry. Instead of holding any grudges against your colleagues, try to avoid burning the bridge, since you never know who you will meet again. Therefore, you should always end it on a very professional note because your notice period is only the last impression your employer will hold.
Five Things That Should be Done During Notice Period
After I Quit !

Here is a ' List of Things ' to do while serving the " Notice Period " :-

boss should be the first person about notice period

First things first

1. First things first :

Your boss should be the first person to know before others, even if you had a hard time coping with him. This gives him the time to make necessary decisions and make arrangements to fill your position. Also, one thing that is important for you to remember is that you will need his recommendation letter at the end. So, showing your anger or frustration at this time is not a good idea. Hence, it is always a good thing to talk to your boss in a positive way.

rapport with office colleagues
Rapport With Colleagues 

2. Continue being professional and work like you used to:

You should instead build rapport with other colleagues too. Preserve a good relationship to obtain references instead of engaging  in conflicts. Don't screw up by doing stupid things and damage your reputation. Get connected with the colleagues on the social platform like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc to be in touch later.



collect records of documents like experience letter, pay slips
Collection of Documents

 3. Start preparing documentation if you have less time left:

Make sure you collect all documents like clearance, and no dues certificate from the concerned departments for future use. Let the HR and payroll head know about your notice period so that they get enough time to work on your full and final settlement. Make sure you collect records of documents like payslips, certificates of appreciation (if any), etc.



Handover company equipment, and pass on critical information that might be needed by the organization for use in the future
Handover the Things

4. Completing pending work and handover of things :

Handover company equipment, and pass on critical information that might be needed by the organization for use in the future. For Example : important passwords and username, company data, contact numbers, stamps, identity card etc. Complete all the pending work allotted to you before leaving. If done properly, you will be viewed as a responsible person.


Effective utilization of time

Effective utilization of time

5. Effective utilization of time : 

You might have a job offer in your hand or are leaving your current employment  for further studies but  you really need to use your spare time to try and get something better at what you are lacking for a particular profession. If you don't have an offer for a job and need one, you should use most of your free time for job search. Also, if your interview time clashes with your working hours, you can request your boss to give you few hours off from work. Try to take references from colleagues, HR, friends, or relatives to appear for interviews. Use this time to enhance or upgrade your skills.

Loosing focus, being unpunctual, holding grudges, ignoring your colleagues or bosses, leaving incomplete work, etc. are the things that you should never do while you are on a notice period because  these things affect your professionalism at work. Take a moment to thank personally and say goodbye to all. This will help in maintaining your professional network for a long time. Try to practice the above guidelines during your notice period and leave a positive mark.

Wednesday, December 06, 2017


Getting fired from a company can dent your professional image. Honestly, it's not easy when the boss gives you some 20 minutes to box up your stuff and have a security personal escort you out of the building. Not only it adds to embarrassment, but also can have negative effects on the career. While layoffs are common when the company wants employees with upgraded skills or there is cost-cutting going on, being fired is disturbing.

5 Common Reasons Why People Get Fired and How to Avoid Them
Common Reasons Why People Get Fired and How to Avoid Them 

People tend to do weird things at work, which actually should be avoided. They think there is no one spying, and it's completely okay to do it just because they see someone else do it. However, this is a false notion! Every little thing you do at the company is being noticed, scrutinized and taken note of. While under performance is the major reason to get fired,

Avoid doing these things at workplace If you want to save your job :

1. Stealing Office Stuff :

Just like the company's desktop, office equipment does not belong to you. Thinking that no one will notice a stack of papers you take home every weekend? Or stuffing your pockets with tea bags and snacks available in the pantry? Some people do it to compensate the low pay. But taking what is not yours will definitely be considered as an offense. When the senior management sees it, they are bound to take strict actions and therefore, it's best to play safe if you value the job more than your petty requirements.

2. Being dishonest to boss or clients : 

As the adage says, 'Honesty is the best policy', lying about projects when deadlines are close can get you on the wrong side of boss. Misleading clients when the project has not even started or when your team has not resolved an issue can severely impact the trust they had put in your firm. As a result, the client would think twice before investing money again. Similarly, giving an excuse of being admitted in a hospital when you are uploading photos of sun bathing on a beach can be a red flag. Speaking truth will help you face the consequences with confidence.

3. Domineering or harassing a coworker : 

You might have been a bully at school, but this would not be taken lightly by any employer. Commenting on someone's clothes or passing snide remarks about a colleague who is overweight is an intolerable act. Also, getting flirty with a new employee in the office or speaking derogatory things that make people uncomfortable might be enough to throw you out. If the hiring manager gets a wind of it, he or she is definitely not going to take more than a few minutes to fire you. Hence, read the employee handbook one more time and stringent actions in the sexual harassment policy to keep your actions in check.

4. Procrastinating assigned tasks :

Having a rough day at the work once in a blue moon when the motivation is at the lowest is completely normal. However, pretending not to be fruitful all the time and not completing assigned work on time just because your boss passed humiliating comments in last month's meeting can also be a danger. If you are delaying assigned duties and the entire team is struggling to meet the client requirements because of your lazy attitude, the boss is surely not going to waste time. Ask for an extended deadline to put things right but never spend days doing no work at all.

5. Calling in sick or coming late often :

Sick leaves and casual offs are present for a reason. A viral flu or a family issue is totally understandable and could be approved by supervisor. However, if you start calling in sick every alternate day, it would catch the manager's attention. Also, if you are someone who always signs in 5 minutes after the permitted time, this too is going to get noticed. Giving lame excuses or blaming traffic each time is not a good idea. Be punctual at the office and take off only when there is a genuine reason. Employers like to have reliable and committed people in their team.

Firing an employee is not a win-win situation for the person as well as an employer as they have invested efforts and time in it. Training a new person for the required skill set is also time-consuming and might delay a high-priority project. Hence, to save your job, watch your actions and take preventive steps in advance before it gets too late.

Sunday, November 26, 2017

As the year is coming to an end, many corporate companies are buzzing with the word 'appraisal'. With major organizations and e-commerce firms reshuffling their employee structure to raise competency or opting for cost-cutting amidst a bleak job scenario, the much-awaited hike is looming in the dark. Although every company has its own criteria to evaluate employee performance and prepare an appraisal list, the basic fundamentals to determine this remain almost the same. Also, it is the time of the year when your colleagues or peers are considering changing jobs to try their luck for a bigger package. With so many things happening around, the mind is bound to go fuzzy with questions like 'What is the current industry value for my position?,' 'What are my future goals?' or 'Do I need to stick to current workplace or make a switch?.' Decluttering all these thoughts and seeking chance to prove your worth with an open mind can assist in securing a fair hike without job hopping this year. Here are ways in which you can become a prolific and important employee as well as get a raise in the current organization.
5 Steps That Could Secure a Good Salary Hike For You
Steps That Could Secure a Good Salary Hike

5 Steps for a "Good Salary" hike are :

1. File your achievements :

Before you fix that appointment to discuss your impending hike with the boss, gather facts and figures. In this way, you will have strong reasons to prove that why you are worth of a hike in salary, and it also reflects your enthusiasm for the company's future. Maintaining a record of significant accomplishments avoids recency bias and the boss cannot refute hardwork you have put in to get those impressive results. You are trying to make an impact with the whole entity, so do your homework well.

2. Go beyond the KRAs :

Sticking to work ethics and concentrating only on tasks assigned to you could be a major reason for your pending pay hike. If you are a team player and the 'go-to' person amongst colleagues from different departments for the most trivial problems, it could be the deciding trait between a good and an average increment. Having attributes like flexibility, multi-tasking attitude and ability to become the right hand of your boss, he or she would definitely become dependable on such a trusted employee and would not want the person to leave the organization at any cost. If you are a reliable and trustworthy person, rests assured you will get your worth.

3. Become a solution finder :

While workplace challenges are normal and the client demands can be absurd, no boss would appreciate an employee who only talks about problems and impossibilities. If an employee is constantly making mistakes or demotivating others to find a solution, the boss wouldn't hesitate to show him/her the door. Imagining out of the box and thinking new solutions will make you a commendable employee and get you in the forefront for a salary hike. Employees with problem solving skills always have a favorable position in boss's mind.

4. Be in good books of the boss :

Staying committed to work and being punctual are small things but are definitely noticed. If you have been a consistent and an exceptional performer, but receive no particular comment from boss, chances are you are lacking in efforts. Determine where you are lagging and what is being expected. Understand your bonding with the boss and try to build a good rapport. You need not become a complete flatterer just to impress, but being on good terms with boss can go a long way in getting a promotion.

5. Assess and reinvent your skills :

Taking efforts to track your productivity levels not only helps the boss to understand the quality of efforts you are putting in but also assists to grow professionally. Constantly upgrading your skills and keeping abreast of the latest developments in your field will give you an upper hand over others and the company will take the right steps to retain you.

Employers keep an eye on employees who are investing time in their career by doing professional certifications without organizational support. Give hints to boss that you are ready to take new challenges. Know the rationale process and the percentage salary hike given in your office before setting up an appointment with the boss.


Monday, November 20, 2017

Interview preparation often involves building a strong resume, preparing for common interview questions, a thorough study of the company and its policies, etc. While all of these parameters play a critical role, there are some other factors such as  'positive body language' that has got a significant role to play since the things that you say in an interview only partially elicit your thoughts. How you carried yourself out during the interview will also have a say in your selection. So it is important that candidates discern its importance and develop it into a habit.
5 Body Language Disasters Job Seekers Make During an Interview
Body Language Disasters Job Seekers Make During an Interview

5 Body Language Disasters Job Seekers Make During an Interview are :

1. No eye contact: 

Maintaining eye contact with the interviewers is critical. Most of the candidates don't take it seriously and make the mistake of not maintaining the eye contact. The reason why it is important is that maintaining eye contact is an effective way of showing interest to what the person in front of you is saying, and is certainly a good way of addressing what you say to the concerned person. So not following the protocol might give the person an intuitive feeling that either you are disinterested in having the conversation, or you lack the right etiquette. Therefore, in an interview, it can be disastrous for a candidate, and hence, they must acknowledge its importance and develop the habit of maintaining eye contact even while having causal conversations with friends or family members.

2. Appearing fidgety: 

Being nervous before or during the interview is natural but make sure that you don't succumb to the nervousness because you won't be able to perform well. Appearing anxious can trigger actions such as fiddling with fingers, biting nails, slouching in the chair, etc. fiddling with the fingers is an indication that you are bored by the conversation, biting nails imply that you are extremely nervous and not having a proper posture while sitting in front of the recruiters fails to create a positive impression. All these actions can put you in jeopardy as it implies that you need self-soothing and do not have control over your actions, thus sending a negative message to the recruiters.

3. Excessive gestures: 

Most of the time we tend to use hand gestures while talking, or in some cases, we observe people performing moves during the conversation. While it can be helpful in certain situation but excessive use of those gestures can be detrimental as it indicates that you don't have proper control over your thoughts as well as actions. So it is important that you avoid doing them by starting to observe great speakers and their body language when they meet other people.

4. Not smiling: 

A smile brings warmth and fills the entire environment with positive energy. It puts the job seeker and the interviewer at ease in a tensed atmosphere. It is also observed that when the interviewers are met with a smile, it makes them feel happier and encourages them to reciprocate the smile and is viewed as a sign of confidence. Smiling also encourages the recruiters to know you better and failing to keep a smile on your face might  portray you as a grim and distant personality, and they will be less inclined to know you or the candidate in front of them. However, a smile must be natural, timely and appropriate. So it is important that you greet the recruiters with a smile as soon as you enter the room.

5. Sounding weird:

Now this might not classify as a body language but still most of the candidates appearing in front of the interview panel often have the habit of stammering or making a 'thinking sound' , something like ' ummm..' every time they find themselves in a state of confusion. It is important that candidates must understand the recruiters don't appreciate this at all and in fact, is something very annoying to hear. It also indicates your lack of confidence and inability to think vividly. So it is advisable to accept your lack of knowledge or understanding if you are not able to answer instead of making that poker face or a bizarre sound.

Succeeding in an interview requires a candidate to walk the extra mile while preparing for it. Nowadays, the abundance in the number of applicants has made the recruiters finicky while choosing the right one. Therefore, recruiters keenly observe the candidates based on hard as well as the soft skills. Hence, in order to pass the litmus test of the recruiters it is necessary that job applicants equip themselves with the right tools and adopt a progressive attitude.

Monday, November 13, 2017

With transparency at workplace being the buzzword for the past few years, there is a change in corporate culture. As Gen Z is stepping out and taking over new responsibilities, the need for firm leadership has never been felt so vigorously as before. When the topic of transparency arrives, it could include multiple issues like pay, internal or external affairs. Whether it is right to disclose employee salaries, could be a topic of discussion. Today's employees search for role models in their boss who they could look up to. They definitely don't want a bossy leader who does nothing apart from bombarding instructions without giving details about what profit or loss the company's newly launched product has made, or the one who ignores employees' opinion when the company is planning to change its internal working structure. No transparency not only affects the morale of employees, but also becomes detrimental to company's growth. Here is what happens when the workplace is devoid of any transparency.
5 Cons of No Transparency Between Boss and Employees
Cons of No Transparency Between Boss and Employees

1. Frequent job hopping by employees :

Work environment that does not encourage transparency makes employees lose their trust in boss and  the firm forcing the core team or star performers to resign. On the other hand, when the boss bridges the gap, senior employees counsel new recruits on the way things function so that they don't go job hopping, which mostly occurs as the newbies are yet to get a taste of the working style.

2. Productivity takes a hit :

Transparency can be said to be a powerful glue which boosts credibility of employees and motivates them to work with less friction. In absence of it, employees find it difficult to solve problems as the very confidence to take risks or make sound decisions is lost. As a result, the projects can get delayed and also miss the critical deadlines, which again can ultimately affect the relationship with clients.

3. Hampers growth and declines performance :

The percentage of what and how much to disclose lies with the boss. Even popular companies like Apple, and Facebook do not disclose complete information to all the departments. But withholding valuable information or not giving out the details until it becomes a need-to-know can raise questions about the motive of the firm and also affect its sustainability in the long term.

4. Business Loss :

When the boss feels anxious and takes a decision on the go without confronting the team, it could seriously affect the turnover of the firm, and in the worst case, the company might be auctioned. Reduced clarity leads to low communication, which in turn, decreases an employee's ability to think clearly and come up with out-of-the-box solutions for business problems. Not only this, it also decreases the agility of the team and impacts response to issues as the employees avoid speaking possible solutions out of fear of reaction.

5. Endangers reputation of the company :

A bad experience at the company is often shared among friends from another workplace or over the coffee table. With employees putting up company reviews on popular sites like Glassdoor, the work culture of a company is now readily available on the internet. When a person hears about a toxic environment of a firm or about the boss who is famous for being dark, he/she would definitely think twice before applying at it and even give out a word of caution to others.

Embracing transparency just because a company wants powerful results is like looking for quick solutions for an acute problem. A growing revenue is a vital factor for an organization's sustainability. When the chief executive of a company is honest and clear, he or she inspires  employees to give their best and get the much-needed support for success.

Wednesday, November 01, 2017

Competition in the job market is at its peak and employers are constantly in the search of candidates that have additional skills and something extra to offer. So interning abroad can be helpful as it also imparts additional skills, and having that experience under your belt would certainly boost your career. During the internship, you will be challenged in numerous ways, and surmounting those challenges would pay-off very well.
7 Reasons Why to Opt for International Internships
Reasons to Opt for International Internships
Employers these days realize the importance of inter-cultural communication as they are open to hire  people from different parts of the world. So having an international internship will be a feather in your cap. It is also an indication for your future recruiters that you have that potential of leaving all the comforts aside and push yourself to a next level.

1. Gaining experience :

Interning abroad can give you a solid experience about the work culture and help in learning a lot of new things about your work and from your colleagues. The benefits of working overseas is that it can change your entire perspective of looking at things and can enhance your learning and thinking ability while working in a completely novel environment. So gaining experience will be beneficial for you in terms of learning and also help you in your future endeavors.

2. Improving your work-profile :

Having a strong work-profile is essential in today's competitive job market. A good profile is that asset whose value appreciates with the passage of time as it benefits you throughout your whole career. Mentioning of an overseas internship on your resume can help your resume stand out from the herd. Moreover, it also indicates that you are a willing to learn and able to work.

3. Opening up opportunities to work abroad :

Nations have started opening up borders with liberal policies for students willing to pursue education and for individuals willing to work in a foreign country. With new opportunities, people are willing to migrate from their native country in search of a job. But for them to be successful in their quest it is necessary that they follow the right path and approach the right people. So, interning in the country where you wish to work can be beneficial for you to get in touch with right people who can guide you through the process of finding a job. On the other hand, if a person is not familiar with the work culture and doesn't have the right guidance it can be difficult for him to find a job in his dream country. So an overseas internship can be a stepping stone in landing a job in a remote country.

4. Creating an international network :

Building a strong international network is possible with help of internships abroad. During the internships, you can make connections with your host employer, interns from different part of the world, and other people from the same industry. The benefits of having a strong network are enormous as it helps you to nurture qualities that you learn from the people and it also exposes you to different perspectives and ways of thinking. Furthermore, a good professional network can help you in finding opportunities across the globe.

5. Living abroad makes you smart :

TIME magazine report suggests that people having experience of staying in other countries makes them more independent, creative, and smart. In a psychological study by a Singapore based management university which studied the psychological effects of staying abroad, concluded that people experiencing different cultures are good at generating creative ideas. So, such an exposure not only helps you in gaining skills related to your field, but also contributes in your overall development.

6. It can help you in stepping out of your comfort zone :

We are often hesitant in unshackling ourselves from the comfort zone, and have developed habits that limit social interaction. But in doing so, most of us miss opportunities that can help in molding our personality. Furthermore, working in a professional setting requires you to step out of your comfort zone and work in a team. As interning abroad provides ample opportunities give up your comfort zone and helps you to be socially adept, pursuing an internship abroad can help you in the long-run.

7. Helps you to learn a new language :

Staying abroad will certainly require you to interact with the local people. So it can be a good opportunity for you to befriend the native people from that country who can help you in learning their dialect. Also in some countries interacting with the local people is not possible if you don't understand their language. Therefore, in such cases most of the organizations mandate you to learn the local language. So all in all it is a plus as you get to learn a new language and knowing additional languages also make your C.V. Stand out from the rest.

An oversees internship can be the silver bullet for you as it strengthens your work-profile and contributes significantly in your all round development. So, given the benefits of having an oversees fellowship, pursuing it can be a good choice and will certainly be helpful in catapulting your career.

Monday, October 23, 2017

Job-seekers may have a hard time searching jobs given the paucity of it and increasing competition. Recruiters these days usually look for candidates who have a good profile. But it is not the only criteria of selection, and a lot of other factors do play a part in the given process. Job-seekers have to be proactive in searching the right job and must adhere to a proper approach, with well drafted resumes, and having contacts with the right people has become equally important as it can garner you necessary information about the organization and help you in landing a job. But in doing so, it is necessary that you develop and maintain good contacts by tapping into all the mediums online as well as offline.
Ways Social Media Can Increase Your Chances To Get Hired
Social Media Can Increase Your Chances To Get Hired

1. Staying connected :

One of the most significant benefits that social media offers is 'connectivity'. It can help us to stay connected with people right from the school, high school, and college. Initially, these mediums were limited and hence maintaining contacts with everyone was not possible back then. So, being able to connect with your friends and alumni group is always a boon as it enables you to seek assistance in landing a job. And in case of a huge network of friends, it also provides options to create groups.

2. Developing professional connections :

Finding the right jobs is much easier with the help of social media. Reports by few of the leading media agencies suggest that traditional methods for searching jobs do not yield good results and the most efficient way of doing it is by developing and maintaining good contacts as it increases your chance of getting hired. As social media is an effective tool in doing so, you won't be going through the drudgery of searching a job as all the essential information can be availed by tapping your professional  network. In addition to that, there are platforms that can give you direct access to people belonging to different fraternities. So developing contacts with people you are unfamiliar with is simple, all you need is to register on any of the professional networks and get going. One of the most widely used networks is 'LinkedIn' which has millions of registered professionals and job-seekers. With LinkedIn, it is possible to connect and collaborate with people from professions across various corners of the world. Such platforms give them free access to many professionals who offer services on selecting career, career development and job search. So  these professional networks have opened new avenues for job-seekers and for people looking to catapult their career. So developing and maintaining new contacts can be beneficial as they can introduce you to people who work at companies you are interested in.

3. Personal branding :

We live in a world today where every thing that is sold in the market is advertised. So given the scale at which things are branded and marketed, marketing has developed into a full-fledged industry. Even people in the entertainment industry hire agencies that help them in building their own brand and assist them crafting their image. So given the importance of branding and its success, job-seekers must not take a backseat when it comes to personal branding and exploring ways in which they can market themselves and build their own brand. To start with, you can create your own website where the recruiters can have direct access to your profile and previous works. Having a website appears to be professional and building one doesn't take a huge effort. Other than that you can create a professional page on different platforms or maintain a blog.

4. Creating awareness :

Social media can be a good source of information, provided you use the right platform. Information on the recent developments in your industry and information on job openings can be easily obtained via social media. As there are millions of users worldwide, access to information across the globe is just a click away.

5. Seeking help :

Social media can be a good tool to seek help from individuals or your counterparts. There are Q&A platforms of professionals where queries regarding jobs and careers are answered by the people. It also provides you the avenue to seek professional advice from the experts who offer their services across such networks.

Social media is an effective tool that can be used by job-seekers. There are various networks where they can register and explore opportunities. Most studies as well as anecdotal evidence points out that being socially active and maintaining good contacts is beneficial for job-hunters and provides them an edge over individuals who do not follow that approach.

Sunday, October 22, 2017


Career and career development are the most widely discussed and debated topics. People in the middle of their careers experience a blip as they find themselves in a maze where they are unaware of the direction in which their careers are heading. But every individual aspires his/her career to be progressive and certainly desires to achieve new heights. But due to lack of proper plan and management, most of them fail to achieve the said goals and all their plans remain fantasies instead of transpiring into realty. Therefore, it is critical to take necessary steps that can boost your career and help in the long-run.
Expand Your Network and Create Opportunities For Achieving Career Growth
Expand Your Network and Create Opportunities

1. Read: Reading is to the mind what food is to the body. When it comes to boosting career, reading can be an effective tool. It can help you in learning about the recent developments in your profession. Apart from that, reading articles on career development can get you good insights about the profession and various ways in which you can successfully evolve in your career. Besides, reading also helps in developing writing skills. It increases your exposure to words, and with that it can help you write exquisitely. In addition to that, it helps in enhancing your analytical skills as reading involves noting all the details in the given context and can certainly moot your response or point of view to the various nuances that you come across. Most of the individuals do not realize its potential, or have the habit of reading thereby suffering the consequences in their careers. So it is important to read different stuff that can help in enhancing knowledge related to your profession.

2. Invest in right relationships: Nurture the relationships that matter the most and give them proper time and always be available for them. Investing time in maintaining such relationships must not be viewed as a liability because the same people can turn out to be assets for you and your development. So identify your circle, places where they operate and figure out how they can provide you assistance in achieving the goals. Also invest in how to develop right networking methods.

3. Be socially active: Socializing is important in the professional sphere. In order to grow in a career, it is important to learn for which it is essential to give up “I- know-it- all” attitude, and start developing good relations with your colleagues. Developing connections with people can help you in unimaginable ways. They cannot only provide information, but also assist you in overcoming obstacles in your professional life. People can also be a good source of learning, So being around them and having extracurricular activities enables you to learn new things. Also attend social gatherings, seminars, and conferences where you get to know new people, their point of views, and a plethora of information that can be vital.

4. Actively participate on the social media: Using social media can be a boon as it enables you to be virtually connected with people across the world. It not only help you to be in touch with your friends and colleagues, but also to develop new contacts. Not only that, it can be a great learning and sharing experience as information can be exchanged at an enormous pace. With the development of professional networks such as LinkedIn, it is possible for people to connect and collaborate with people from their fraternity across various corners of the world. Such platforms give them free access to many professionals who offer services on selecting career and development. So  these professional networks have opened new avenues for job seekers looking to catapult their career.

5. Invest in a career coach: Staying focused and managing your time while working can be difficult. You might lose focus and momentum in achieving your career goals. So a mismanaged career can be detrimental in your quest for achieving success in your career. Hence, investing in a career coach can be a good option to boost your career as you will have a personal assistance who can provide you with tools and opportunities to stay focused in achieving your goals. The coach will also guide on drafting effective resume to get an interview call.

Developing your career is not an easy task and is time-consuming. You can't expect a turnaround with a wave of a magic wand. It requires the right plan and a pro-active approach along with a high level of dedication and discipline. Furthermore, it needs developing and maintaining strong networks, investing in improving yourself and capitalizing on opportunities. Professionals usually fail to achieve that feat in their careers as they lack in implementing requisite steps during the tenure of their work. So by adhering to the tips mentioned above you can successfully develop and expand your network in order to achieve the goal of career growth.

Sunday, October 08, 2017


We all set goals and aspire to achieve them. But do we all really accomplish them? The answer is disappointing since only a small percentage does so. When we meet and see achievers, one question that strikes us is, “What qualities they have that I don't? This adds to annoyance and much chagrin to us. What we need to say ourselves at such a juncture is to take steps towards achieving goals and we alone are in charge of our destiny. When pursuing your goals, it is important to remember the adage “Rome was not built in a day.” After all, big things do take time to form. But this does not mean they are impossible to achieve. The trick in realizing goal is planning and taking actionable and manageable steps to keep spirits alive and push towards dreams.
Big Career Goal Steps That Will Get You Closer Today
Big Career Goal Steps That Will Get You Closer Today

Here are five steps that will inch you closer towards your career goals.

1. Assess yourself on tough questions :

The fact is, doing things over and again will yield the same results. Hence, instead of being content with the results, it is time to do some soul-searchingand scrutinize career journey. To figure out where you see yourself a few years down the line, first understand where you stand at present. At the same time, don't be get disillusioned by your mind. Assess yourself by asking questions like 'what professional accomplishments are there in your name,' 'did I learn any new skill,' or 'what additional responsibilities have I addressed.' It will help to determine whether you are on the right track or have lost the path midway.

2. Plans your goals :

With a clear picture in mind, it becomes easier to work towards it as all your actions get directed towards the goal. Once the goal is decided, be verbal about it. Understand what it feels like to be in a particularjob or work in a dream company. As time and energy is invested, it is always better to have a good idea about the dream job. Have answers ready for questions like 'what kind of employer I want to work for,' 'what salary package and benefits I expect,' and 'what types of responsibilities I am willing to handle.' In addition, remember to have realistic short-term goals that can help achieve ambitions.

3. Create a realistic career road map :

If you want to reach your goals, make sure to work on it every single day. It does not matter how much time is spent on it. It could be just ten minutes or a couple of hours. Working every single day can nudge you closer towards your aim and complete the checklist. When steps are taken to achieve goals, there is a possibility to discover additional things that need to be done before starting the next task. So, be flexible to adjust timeline and have realistic deadlines. It is important to assess the results of actions and check if they are as planned. If the answer is negative, rework for the missing things or try having a feedback from a third party.

4. Strive for excellence :

When you desire something, it is necessary to have a check-list at regular intervals to ensure moving in the right direction. Failing to recognize a 'wrong turn' or following crucial steps can divert from the intended destination and push backwards. At such times, even if the destination is fixed, a proper road map is must. Also, do not set tough targets, or be in a haste to attain goals. Be sure to achieve expertise in every level before moving on to the next.

5. Have a success mantra :

To go from imagination and wishful thinking to actually realizing your dreams, being motivated is vital. Pin a favorite quote on a wall that can remind and motivate towards goals. Recite the quote when feeling blue or drop in confidence.

As Paulo Coelho states, 'When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.' The more time you spend working on yourself, the faster you will move towards the goal. Implementing these simple steps can guarantee a better tomorrow if determined to achieve those spectacular goals in career.

Tuesday, September 26, 2017


Working in a 9 to 5 job can cut down your free time and also reduce the daily meetings with your friends or college mates to a great extent. As you step into a world of profession and try to get acquainted with an entirely new routine, you will find yourself following a disciplined lifestyle instead of just lazying around. While the initial few months are a testing time of a career, grumbling over the limited holidays and workplace challenges faced will be obvious. Nevertheless, doing a job can transform you completely and make a better person. Eventually, a self-realization on how the career has made your life better will occur.
Unexpected Ways Career Can Make Your Life Better
Unexpected Ways Career Can Make Your Life Better 

1. You will adhere to a strict schedule :

As it will be mandatory to report to duty on time, and one cannot give out lame excuses for coming late or taking frequent sick leaves, following a proper routine and healthy diet will become the norm. Activities like boozing around on week days or catching up for late-night movies will become a thing of the past as you need to be present each day at the workplace. In addition to this, you will learn to go to bed early and even refrain from hitting the snooze button for some morning exercise. You will have a fixed schedule and also plan the day's schedule to avoid being distracted from  goals.

2. You will recognize your sense of purpose for life :

Since reporting to senior authority is given in a job, procrastinating things will be a passé as making an impression is important. Aligning job duties with career goals will not only motivate to work harder, but also help you push yourself to bring out the best. Similarly, unproductive and unhealthy activities after the work will also stop drastically as there will be focus on self-improvement. Once there is a clear idea on how to be potential, there will be a motto. As a result, instead of spending an evening discussing the latest flick, changing TV channels to watch an interesting news or checking on social media accounts, you will find out ways to invest in yourself and grow as an individual. You may listen to motivational speeches by the person you idolize, do certificate courses that are relevant for the job or take steps to improve performance in the office.

3. You will have a better understanding of yourself :

When a particular stage to reach in a career in identified, setting a benchmark , applying mind and energy to achieve it will become your aim. Hence, you will not give importance to petty issues and will learn to ignore things that do not have any significant value. Furthermore, you will be able to recognize what you admire and which things do not matter to you. In addition to this, you will cultivate close bonds with people who have similar thinking abilities and also learn from them as well as avoid toxic people who do not contribute to your development. Doing a job will help to understand the balance between success and failure and also develop ability to digest things when circumstances are not in favor.

4. You will become an inspiration for others :

When you strive to become better in a profession, you indirectly serve as a role model for others. The attitude you carry for completing a task can become an example for other team members and thus increase the productivity of the team. At the same time, you can act as a motivator to friends or peers unwilling to take a step to shape their future just because it seems too risky or requires giving up on things they are fond of. When a perfect work-life balance is achieved, you will be in a better position to explain the benefits of pursuing a career to others and also encourage them to carry out tasks that will surely make them happy. Also, when they finally decide to take the leap, you can play the role of a supporter and motivator when they face issues.

5. You will become more responsible :

Working in an organization can make you a responsible individual and also take out the clumsiness. It will instill a drive in you to excel and make more active to learn different facets about the profession. Apart from this, there will be an improvement in understanding the importance of meeting deadlines, developing quick thinking abilities, and overcoming any adverse situations in life. When following a career dream, you will become more organized and always have a 'to-do list'  before carrying out any task instead of randomly going about things.

When you are jobless or have no specific aim, the mind usually wanders in various directions as rightly said 'an empty mind is a devil's workshop'. Having a fixed goal and an aspiration to become successful in the career  can make you a better individual and even transform your life. To get a career in your chosen field, take a look at resume samples.

Thursday, September 21, 2017


Do you find yourself lost in the crowd of job seekers? Are you questioning yourself which job is better for you as you have no experience or required qualifications? Hunting for a job without any relevant experience or qualifications can become frustrating after a while when you get no positive outcome. At such times, instead of giving up, demonstrate your abilities to a prospective employer and convince the hiring manager to hire you.
How to Get a Job With No Experience or Qualifications
How to Get a Job With No Experience or Qualifications

Here are ways in which you can land yourself with a dream job that you have always aspired for :

Embrace the reality :

When you are applying for entry-level positions or are a complete novice in the field, it is a fact that the recruiters do not expect the candidates to put up experience in their resume. You can use this shortcoming as a motivating factor and show your willingness to learn. Hiring managers are often on a lookout for candidates who express curiosity, dedication and show commitment to do hard work and learn. To present these skills on your resume, refer resume samples.

Identify your potential skills :

Do not get discouraged after reading job description and just lose hope because you do not have the listed skills. Before applying to any job, inspect yourself and understand what are the things you do exceptionally well. Understand what you enjoy doing and what help do other people usually ask for. Are you having a problem-solving approach or can communicate your ideas well to the audience? In this way, you will recognize your true potential.

Make the link between your strengths and job relevant skills :

When you have identified the job that suits you the best, have a self-belief that you will excel at it. Perform analysis of the given job responsibilities and match it with your personal traits. Once you have an idea about why you fit the position, you will be in a better position to explain the same to the employer.

Know your worth :

Even if you do not have the relevant experience, understand what other background can be used to demonstrate your worth to the employer. It could be your graduate-level internship, a part-time job at a popular food chain restaurant or a short stint in theater during school-days. Experience does not come in traditional options always, there can be many more ways to it. However, to land a job, don't fake something just to make the cut.

Be willing to learn :

An individual who is starting new in a field has plenty of opportunities to learn. When you are a beginner, you get a chance to make something from scratch and excel in it. Always have a curious attitude and show willingness to learn new skills. This will definitely prove useful in the long term of your career. At the same time, confidently show that you are capable of doing the task while maintaining a modest attitude.

Become a volunteer :

The job hunt is a lengthy process and is bound to take time before you start your new gig. As you are not going to be hooked to the job application process the entire day, in the meantime, try some volunteering activities. You will not only learn something new, but also it will help you get some skills and add an extra section that will make you stand out in an interview process. Also, it will increase your contacts and the interactions with different people might help you have a foot in the door.

Grow your professional network :

If you think you have excellent skills that will help you excel a field, think of ways in which you can sell the same to others. Exceptional self-marketing proves you have the ability to bring about transformations and want to improve each day. Develop your own personal network and even connect with friends of your friends to avail the job opportunities at the right time.

Look beyond the specified requirements :

The vacancy advertisements often come with a phrase stating the required years of experience. However, most of the times, the entry-level jobs or openings do no have a hard requirement. It is mentioned just to filter out probable candidates and is usually used to describe the kind of candidate an organization is looking for. If you think that you have the required skills and can prove it to the employer, you should give it a try and persuade the recruiter for scheduling an interview.

Lying about yourself and fudging with the contents in resume is a terrible way to market yourself as an able candidate. Selling yourself to a prospective employer is an art, and you must have a realistic mindset when you are applying for a position. Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter and understand what qualities will make him/her take interest in your profile.

Wednesday, September 06, 2017

'Work from home' or  'Telecommuting' is a preferred option as it provides flexibility and the comfort of being at home and work for the office. Working from home is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. as employers have started to shred the skepticism that was once prevalent, and have realized the mutual benefits that are accrued in exercising the option. According to a 2016 study by consultancy PWC, around 38% of workers in the United States can work from home at least one day a week. The number is a fourfold increase when compared with the statistics of 1995.
              According to two-third of the managers interviewed during the survey, granting employees the permission to work from home is at their discretion. So it can be inferred that even though it is an open option, it still requires convincing your manager or boss in a way that it serves in the best interest of both the parties.
Ways to Convince Your Boss to Start Letting You Work From Home
Convince Your Boss to Start Letting You Work From Home

1. Self Assessment :

Convincing your boss can be a difficult task. Before you pitch the idea, it is important that you weigh all the factors at play and come up with ideas that would make a solid argument. The first thing you must be contemplating upon is the 'type of work'. If it is a desk job and can be carried out using nominal means such as a computer and perhaps an internet connection, then it will be a lot easier for you to justify your situation, as working from home becomes an option that is feasible in your case. On the contrary, if the job mandates you to work in a team, in that case, you might have a hard time convincing your boss.

2. Give Reasons That Are Mutually Beneficial :

In the majority of the cases, the reasons that are cited for  'work from home' option are personal and serve only the employee's interests. If the reasons that you quote are travel flexibility, and spending more time with you kids and family, there is a chance that you might fail in convincing your boss and would also imply a lack of interest. Therefore, it is a point worth contemplating upon, and instead you should give reasons that are mutually beneficial. For example, according to a study, remote workers tend to be more productive as they work in a more familiar environment and are more engaged in their work. So it can yield productive results and also help you in keeping up your end of the bargain.

3. Address All The Concerns :

Your boss might have concerns of you losing touch with your colleagues thereby affecting the overall performance. Hence, it is important that you assert him while addressing these concerns. And also ensure him of your availability in important meetings and during emergency.

4. Ask For A Trial Period :

Demanding flexibility to work from home' over the entire week can raise a lot of questions as it can nudge other employees in following the suit. Therefore, try convincing your boss on working remotely only on a trial basis initially. Demanding a day or two for the same can be an option worth exploring and would be a reasonable to ask. On the other hand, it also provides you the opportunity to prove your mettle. If you perform at the expected level and demonstrate productivity, you might be given a green signal.

5. Demonstrate Results :

Once you have got the green signal from your boss make sure that you don't fail him and try giving your best. Make sure you answer all the calls and respond to e-mails and messages. By responding to such protocols you can ensure that you remain available as you were earlier, and show that there aren't any setbacks in working from a remote location. Further, enhancing your productivity is possible by setting up an environment in your home, which is conducive for working. Besides making changes in the physical environment try maintaining a working schedule that suits you, and make sure it doesn't cause inconvenience to your family.

Studies have regularly pointed out that working from home can be good for your health and productivity. A Stanford University research conducted on employees of a Chinese travel agency concluded that employees who worked from home showed a 13% surge in their performance, while performance of the people who stayed in the office remained the same. The employees working from home reported a greater work satisfaction and less 'work exhaustion'. So the research that was conducted is a testament of surge in productivity as well as job satisfaction amongst the employees. Given the multi-faceted gains that telecommuting offers, it is an option worth pursuing on the part of employees as well as the employers. 

Sunday, September 03, 2017


Professionals switching jobs is not a novel phenomenon. Given the opportunities that are available today, people are willing to hop jobs or wait until they land a job that offers them the right  opportunities and job satisfaction. However, the quest for an 'ideal job' may not be easy, and the person might end-up losing time thereby creating gaps in his/her work profile.
5 Things That Can Help to Overcome Gaps in Work History
 Overcome Gaps in Work History


Functional resume:

Graduates entering the workforce for the first time may find it difficult to land a job. The job search may take weeks or even months for entry-level jobs. In that case, the time that has elapsed during the search can be an impediment in your future endeavors as you would have a tough time mentioning it on a resume. Similarly, holding a number of different jobs during a short period of time can have a negative impression on the minds of the recruiters as you might be  labeled as a job-hopper, thereby ebbing your chances of fetching an interview. However, you can overcome all the shortcomings using a functional resume. Functional resumes typically rely on grouping skills into specific categories to demonstrate a candidate's qualifications and expertise for a particular job. They provide a skill-based focus on your profile, which can be used to conceal  the shortcomings that persist. This type of resume can also be helpful for people who were forced to quit their job in unavoidable circumstances such as death of a love one or treatment of an ill family member.

Mention years instead of months on your resume:

People who are in the process of moving from one job to the other are said to be fictionally unemployed. The period for unemployment can last for several months. While applying for a new job, providing details regarding your job history is critical. If the time period between quitting your previous job and applying for a new one exceeds over a several months or quarters, mentioning it on a resume will not serve in your best interest. It can raise a lot of questions in the mind of recruiters as you might appear lethargic and sedate in terms of your approach. You will certainly go through the ordeal of fending-off questions relative to it during  the interview. Therefore, it is advisable to mention the year in which you left your previous job without mentioning the month.

Mention extracurricular activities and skills that you acquired during that period:

Even an entry-level job these days requires professionals with additional skills. In that case, a college degree won't suffice, thus the candidates are required to have additional certifications and skills that justify their credence for the job profile. However, in order to re-skill themselves, they have to undergo training and skill development programs that involve classroom training. The people who are out of work and are mandated to undergo additional training for securing a job are said to be structurally unemployed. The time involved in the training can be several months and can extend to a year. Therefore, it is advisable to mention the same in the skills section of the resume as it can enhance your chances in the interview and mitigate the adverse effects of being structurally unemployed.  No matter what profession you are trying to pursue or already in, check resume samples and know how to highlight your skills.

Cover letter:

A cover letter is a document sent along with your resume. It is used as a tool to provide detailed information on why you are qualified for the job. However, it can be used as a bargaining chip by a candidate in case of gap in his/her employment. Providing a genuine reason in the cover letter along with a strong resume can be a good sales pitch.

Reference letter:

A reference letter and a strong recommendation from your previous employer can be a silver lining if you are applying for a job after a long interval of time. A strong recommendation endorsing your skills and work ethic can be a boon. Therefore, getting a reference letter can tilt the odds in your favor.

Having a gap in your work history can put you in jeopardy. However, recruiters these days are aware of the situations that lead to such circumstances. Therefore, in genuine cases they do provide a leeway. Thus deploying the aforementioned means can help you meet the ends.

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Organizations over the globe are grappling with low productivity. Subsequently, they have invested heavily in H.R. technologies that can help manage resources better and improve productivity. However, all the provisions are intended to solve problems of low productivity at a material level, and less emphasis is given at an individual level. A positive work environment is the most significant variable that drive productivity. It is a fundamental factor in achieving high level of growth and productivity since it can bring the best out of the employees, whereas a negative environment can do exactly the opposite thereby hampering the morale of the employees and impacting productivity negatively.
How Does Negativity Around You Hamper Work Productivity?
Negativity Around You Hamper Work Productivity

1. Unhealthy competition : 

It is an undisputed fact that competition improves productivity. We have often come across examples of healthy competition across companies operating in the same vertical. But the outcome of the competition has yielded fruitful results. A healthy competition has nudged companies to be productive and improve their performance constantly. The competition is prevalent to the extent that companies launch new products of cutting edge-technology at the end of every quarter of a financial year (for example, smart phones). However, competition amongst counterparts is not the only way of nurturing productivity. Its prevalence within an organization can also be a boon when it comes to achieving high level of productivity. But in order to achieve that, it is imperative that the environment within the company is conducive for a healthy competition. If the workplace environment is engulfed with negativity, there is hardly any scope for a competitive environment. Also, an enmity amongst employees can make them adopt illicit means to stay ahead of their counterparts, with ethics taking a backseat and thereby putting their organization years back than rivals. Therefore, a healthy competition enhances productivity, and an unhealthy one impedes it.

2. Lack of enthusiasm at work : 

Just like a single rotten mango in a crate spoils the rest; a negative person can do the same to the work environment. A negative attitude amongst the employees can be detrimental to a workplace as it radiates and creates an unproductive work environment. Such an attitude is detrimental as it also affects the people willing and capable of performing. With negativity brewing around a workplace, the probability of a person being acclaimed for his/her hard work and performance is zilch. Therefore, the person willing to perform doesn't have any credible incentive to show a progressive attitude and keep performing with the same attitude. This leads to lack of enthusiasm at a workplace, which takes a toll on productivity.

3. Lack of will to take new challenges : 

Companies today have to walk an extra mile when it comes to being innovative and retaining their existing customers. It is only possible to achieve the said goal if they have productive human capital. With people lacking the positive attitude at a workplace, it is difficult for them to be progressive in terms of their performance. Even if they have a think-tank which is wiling to implement new policies instrumental in improving productivity, a negative outlook of the people who actually operate on the grass root level can deter such initiatives. People with negative mindsets lack the will to perform in a responsible manner subsequently affecting the productivity.

A negative work environment is detrimental to an organization. But it is a challenge that can be surmounted with the right approach. Companies have to pro-actively draft policies, which can make the environment devoid of resentment and negativity amongst the employees. Since it is a two-way exchange, it is obligatory for the companies to have empathy towards its employees and create an environment that nurtures positivity.

Wednesday, August 02, 2017

Education is a significant factor in evolution of the mankind. The practice of imparting education is an age-old phenomenon, and as a discipline, it has evolved based on the needs of the mankind. In ancient times, imparting education involved the art of making weapons, poaching of animals, understanding sign languages, and all other factors essential for survival. During the medieval period, it was archery, horse riding, and war techniques. Nowadays, education is not only constrained to survival, but has become a tool in order to stay relevant. The purpose of acquiring education is also to be employable and earn a regular income.

How Education Affects Income
Education Affects Income
With the industrial revolution and technological advancements, the appetite of consumers has increased significantly. The demand for a comfortable and an opulent lifestyle has led to an increase in consumption of goods and services manufactured and offered using a cutting-edge technology. That's why costs of consumables and services are exponentially high. Manufacturing of such commodities requires a great deal of skill and dexterity, which can only be imparted with a high-quality education. And in order to purchase those commodities, it requires a huge amount of money, as individuals at a high income level are the only ones who can afford the same. Therefore, increase in manufacturing and consumption of these commodities implies that the level of education and income has grown on the same trajectory.

Illiteracy is a vicious cycle that leads you astray from the path of development, and drags you into poverty and misery. People that attain dismal quality of education or no education at all, are devoid of essential skills to earn their livelihood. With poor skills, the likelihood of a person getting employed and earning a high income is very low. And if such is the case, the descendants of the person suffer the same fate since a person born in a poor environment is generally deprived of the basic amenities that are instrumental in the overall development. Consequently, the demon of poverty never ceases to exist in their case. Whereas if you compile the data of nations that have high-level of literacy, you can see their per capita income is also higher.

A. Hamilton's study points out that the earnings of those with a college degree have grown substantially, while the with just high school education or college dropouts have a stagnated income. There are reports of rising unemployment and loss of jobs as artificial intelligence, automation and other technological advancements have led to the replacement of hands by machine. The wage gap between those who are graduates and pose quality skills, and those who are bereft of it, is rapidly increasing. If the quality of education doesn't run in tandem with the technological advancements, there is no way in which this predicament can be mitigated. Thus, it is imperative on the government's part to empower their citizens with necessary skills, and have a significant amount of budgetary allocation for educational programs, as well as have subsidized education for the people in low income band.

Given the following nuances, education can yield a high level of income. It can be a vital tool for those who are deprived, and struggle to meet their ends. It can be a mediator in reducing the income gap that persists, and to address the problem of income inequality that has plagued many countries. However, along with education, a good resumes is also essential to earn a job one wish to do.