On the flip side of my previous post, there will be times where you'll face rejection on the job front. It can be discouraging after committing and applying for a position only to receive the dreaded "no" letter. Trust me, it happens to everyone.
Here are some steps to take after this happens:
Analyze, but don't over analyze.
Of course you're going to wonder what you could have done to get that interview call. That's good! At least your mind instantly goes to a place of improvement instead of wallowing. Read over your resume again and move on. I believe the job market is all about timing- don't stress too much about it. It just means it wasn't the right time or place, and that's okay.
Reach out.
Talk to a counselor, friend or someone you admire professionally for advice on your next cover letter. Have them read it and prepare for honest, critical feedback. Some of the critiques I've gotten have been eye-opening, but in the end they were extremely helpful and prevented me from making the same mistakes in each application.
But at the same time, know when to block out the noise.
Everyone has an opinion about everything. Know when to separate the advice from the chatter. For this reason, I usually keep any applications/interviews on the down low until the second round interview.
Broaden your search.
You might feel like you're under-qualified, unlucky, etc. And you know, for that specific job, you might as well be. Look into different areas/interests! I know the ideal goal is to get something in your field/degree, but you can create opportunities everywhere. Look into jobs that interest you in different areas of town. Narrowing your search limits your results.
***Also, CREATE OPPORTUNITIES! For example, if you work at your local coffee shop and are super interested in marketing, take control! Pitch ideas, think outside the box. Worst case scenario: you get more experience. Think big picture.
Don't you dare give up.
Trust me, it can be heartbreaking. But the second you give up is the second you let those negative vibes run you down. Don't do that! When you start working, you'll deal with obstacles and problem solving all the time- think of this as practice. Can you keep yourself in check? Do you believe in yourself and your work? Keep the go-getter attitude and you'll be surprised how the doors start opening.
Did I miss anything? Holla @AyshKittyMeow if you need a pep talk to continue your search!
xxx
Friday, June 13, 2014
AyshKittyCareer : So You Landed Your Dream Job....
Congrats, kitten! After searching, applying, and interviewing you've finally landed your dream job!!!
Even if the job isn't exactly your dream, you're still employed. So you'll be making money to pay the bills- a dream in its own right. Life gives you lemons, y'all.
So after you've landed the job, what now? Here's my list of your next few steps:
Clear your schedule and map out necessary conflicts.
You want to make sure you can be free at the drop of the hat for additional shifts, training and meetings with bosses and co-workers. Granted, there are events that cannot be changed (close family/friend weddings, ticketed vacations/events) but try to prioritize and make sure your schedule is wide open, waiting for opportunities! Key takeaway here: if your boss asks you anything, you don't want to say no.
Adjust your attitude to the company's culture.
Is your new workplace the type of place where people stick to their own cubicles? Or where people are interacting with each other, high-fiving and playing music? Ask questions and feel out the vibe. Adjust accordingly.
Adjust your wardrobe as well.
Check out what people are wearing and get ideas for what to look for when you're shopping. Don't lose your individuality but dress in a way that makes you happy and meets the office guidelines.
ASK QUESTIONS!
Talk to your boss, manager, coworkers- everyone! You'll make mistakes and learn new things everyday, but the only way you'll improve is by taking the first step and attempting to learn. You might think you're bugging people (I feel that feel) but in reality, the people you ask will at least appreciate your enthusiasm and initiative~
Have a great attitude at all times, and mind your manners!
Walk in with a smile, leave with a smile. Say please and thank you. Express gratitude for anyone who helps you with this transition. A positive attitude is contagious, so be the one who brings it to the office!
Being new to an office can be scary and intimidating, but don't worry! Soon your days of being a newbie will be far behind you!
What are your steps after you've landed your dream job? Let me know @AyshKittyMeow
xxx
Even if the job isn't exactly your dream, you're still employed. So you'll be making money to pay the bills- a dream in its own right. Life gives you lemons, y'all.
So after you've landed the job, what now? Here's my list of your next few steps:
Clear your schedule and map out necessary conflicts.
You want to make sure you can be free at the drop of the hat for additional shifts, training and meetings with bosses and co-workers. Granted, there are events that cannot be changed (close family/friend weddings, ticketed vacations/events) but try to prioritize and make sure your schedule is wide open, waiting for opportunities! Key takeaway here: if your boss asks you anything, you don't want to say no.
Adjust your attitude to the company's culture.
Is your new workplace the type of place where people stick to their own cubicles? Or where people are interacting with each other, high-fiving and playing music? Ask questions and feel out the vibe. Adjust accordingly.
Adjust your wardrobe as well.
Check out what people are wearing and get ideas for what to look for when you're shopping. Don't lose your individuality but dress in a way that makes you happy and meets the office guidelines.
ASK QUESTIONS!
Talk to your boss, manager, coworkers- everyone! You'll make mistakes and learn new things everyday, but the only way you'll improve is by taking the first step and attempting to learn. You might think you're bugging people (I feel that feel) but in reality, the people you ask will at least appreciate your enthusiasm and initiative~
Have a great attitude at all times, and mind your manners!
Walk in with a smile, leave with a smile. Say please and thank you. Express gratitude for anyone who helps you with this transition. A positive attitude is contagious, so be the one who brings it to the office!
Being new to an office can be scary and intimidating, but don't worry! Soon your days of being a newbie will be far behind you!
What are your steps after you've landed your dream job? Let me know @AyshKittyMeow
xxx
Thursday, June 5, 2014
AyshKittyCareer : The Job Hunt Struggle
Hello, kittens!
I know I've been MIA for awhile, but I've basically been making some serious transition moves in my life. I finally said goodbye to my college town/apartment and moved back home, and have been interviewing for my first real-world job! Crazy, right? Sometimes I swear I still feel like that 17 year old kid getting hyped to get to Welcome Week in August and start my life.
Speaking of college, if you're like me your college days are behind you and you're trying to figure out where to go next. In the past, you've always had an idea of what was next: high school to college/work, work to wherever, etc. However now that part of your life is over and you basically have the chance to start something new, except the choices you make now are what shapes your life. Both super exciting and scary as hell, right?
Through this AyshKittyCareer series, I'll be sharing some tips/learnings from my experiences through this transition. Starting things off is one of my current woes: JOB HUNTING.
There are tons of websites that can direct you to hundreds of openings in your area. But how do you go through them all?! I've been at this job hunt since March, so here are some things I've learned:
The first step: Make sure you've edited your résumé, have practiced writing a few cover letters and have cleaned out your social media accounts.
Check the spelling, make sure your information is accurate (if you had a college job, make sure the dates you started/ended are correct) and reach out for advice! Show your résumé and sample cover letters to mentors or friends and ask for constructive criticism. How do you sound on paper?
Social media, oy. Make sure its PG and edit those privacy settings. Also check out LinkedIn. Some people think its useless but it is a good opportunity to showcase your work. Give it a chance!
Know where to look.
Again, there are so many sites these days! Take the time to explore them and the type of listings they post. I personally really like Indeed.com and LinkedIn.
Know what you're looking for.
Have an idea of the job you want. Try writing down some key words you are looking for. If you're new to the workforce, you might want to start with something entry-level to get your foot in the door and gain experience. Look for jobs that you would like to learn about! Don't get turned off by a job listing if you didn't major in the field. Yes, the experience helps and some employers prefer certain degrees but if you express that you're passionate about learning and can prove that in your cover letter, you might just get the interview! Take a chance!
Do not over-apply.
Its really easy to go on these sites and apply for EVERYTHING. However, take the time to read through the qualifications and job responsibilities, and definitely check out the company's website and social media. You might find that you're really excited about 30 jobs and apply for them all- totally cool. Just take the time to make sure you really want to take the next step. You might feel the desperation to apply for everything and get something, but the last thing you want is to interview at a job you know you don't want.
Take a breath!
You'll hear from some, and you'll get rejected by some. That's life. However, don't let that discourage you! It just meant that it wasn't meant to be. Don't let the rejection of a "dream job" be enough to make you believe you aren't good enough. Just keep on your hustle.
How is your hunt going? Holla @AyshKittyMeow
Happy hunting, kittens. ;)
xxx
I know I've been MIA for awhile, but I've basically been making some serious transition moves in my life. I finally said goodbye to my college town/apartment and moved back home, and have been interviewing for my first real-world job! Crazy, right? Sometimes I swear I still feel like that 17 year old kid getting hyped to get to Welcome Week in August and start my life.
Speaking of college, if you're like me your college days are behind you and you're trying to figure out where to go next. In the past, you've always had an idea of what was next: high school to college/work, work to wherever, etc. However now that part of your life is over and you basically have the chance to start something new, except the choices you make now are what shapes your life. Both super exciting and scary as hell, right?
Through this AyshKittyCareer series, I'll be sharing some tips/learnings from my experiences through this transition. Starting things off is one of my current woes: JOB HUNTING.
There are tons of websites that can direct you to hundreds of openings in your area. But how do you go through them all?! I've been at this job hunt since March, so here are some things I've learned:
The first step: Make sure you've edited your résumé, have practiced writing a few cover letters and have cleaned out your social media accounts.
Check the spelling, make sure your information is accurate (if you had a college job, make sure the dates you started/ended are correct) and reach out for advice! Show your résumé and sample cover letters to mentors or friends and ask for constructive criticism. How do you sound on paper?
Social media, oy. Make sure its PG and edit those privacy settings. Also check out LinkedIn. Some people think its useless but it is a good opportunity to showcase your work. Give it a chance!
Know where to look.
Again, there are so many sites these days! Take the time to explore them and the type of listings they post. I personally really like Indeed.com and LinkedIn.
Know what you're looking for.
Have an idea of the job you want. Try writing down some key words you are looking for. If you're new to the workforce, you might want to start with something entry-level to get your foot in the door and gain experience. Look for jobs that you would like to learn about! Don't get turned off by a job listing if you didn't major in the field. Yes, the experience helps and some employers prefer certain degrees but if you express that you're passionate about learning and can prove that in your cover letter, you might just get the interview! Take a chance!
Do not over-apply.
Its really easy to go on these sites and apply for EVERYTHING. However, take the time to read through the qualifications and job responsibilities, and definitely check out the company's website and social media. You might find that you're really excited about 30 jobs and apply for them all- totally cool. Just take the time to make sure you really want to take the next step. You might feel the desperation to apply for everything and get something, but the last thing you want is to interview at a job you know you don't want.
Take a breath!
You'll hear from some, and you'll get rejected by some. That's life. However, don't let that discourage you! It just meant that it wasn't meant to be. Don't let the rejection of a "dream job" be enough to make you believe you aren't good enough. Just keep on your hustle.
How is your hunt going? Holla @AyshKittyMeow
Happy hunting, kittens. ;)
xxx
Friday, May 23, 2014
TGIPF!
For those of you who forgot what these letters mean, its
THANK GOD ITS PINTEREST FRIDAY!
Some random Pinterest finds for your viewing pleasure:
Did you find anything fun on Pinterest this week?
THANK GOD ITS PINTEREST FRIDAY!
Some random Pinterest finds for your viewing pleasure:
 |
| Need it. |
 |
| This made me laugh, but its the #truth. |
 |
| Just, yes. |
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| I'm loving home decor with primarily neutrals with a splash of pink. |
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| Blueberry, strawberry and banana fruit kebabs! God bless America. |
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| Green tea is my favorite, so I will be trying this Peach Mint Green Tea recipe! |
xxx
3 Not-So-Obvious Interview Tips
Hello, kittens!
Today's post is about...job interviews. DUN DUN DUN. Many people tell me that interviewing is their least favorite part of job hunting. You can't hide behind your résumé anymore- you need to be able to effectively communicate your skills to someone who's purpose is to analyze you and measure your qualifications. Yikes!
There are endless amounts of lists on what to do and what not to do at an interview, so I won't bore you with the basics. Instead, here are three tips that I have not seen on many of these lists but I believe are helpful reminders.
1. Bring a hard copy of your résumé!
Even if they do not ask for it, you want to be prepared no matter what. I would hope that whoever interviews you has a copy but you never know! And get it printed on résumé paper.
2. Be friendly to the receptionist and whoever you meet, even if they are up for the same job as you are!
The receptionist rule has popped up before on many lists- you want to be kind and respectful towards them because not only is it the decent human thing to do, but it might go a long way. The receptionist might mention something to the hiring manager about you, so make sure that the lasting impression you leave on them is a good one. After all, they might become your future co-worker!
Adding to that, be kind to everyone you meet, even people who are waiting to interview with you! You might be thinking, "Why would I try to befriend the competition!?!" Not only will this speak to your character and leave even more of a positive impression on the receptionist but it will ABSOLUTELY calm your nerves! Treating someone as a person and not merely a competition figure will put your mind at ease. Its weird but it works. Try it and let me know.
3. Silence your phone and put it away.
Silencing it is a no-brainer, but log off of Twitter before your interview. Take the time to breathe, relax and focus. That way, come interview time, you will be ready to slay.
***Also, whoever made that "imagine your interviewer is naked" rule is crazy. DO NOT DO THAT.
What do you do to prepare for an interview? Holla @AyshKittyMeow.
xxx
Today's post is about...job interviews. DUN DUN DUN. Many people tell me that interviewing is their least favorite part of job hunting. You can't hide behind your résumé anymore- you need to be able to effectively communicate your skills to someone who's purpose is to analyze you and measure your qualifications. Yikes!
There are endless amounts of lists on what to do and what not to do at an interview, so I won't bore you with the basics. Instead, here are three tips that I have not seen on many of these lists but I believe are helpful reminders.
1. Bring a hard copy of your résumé!
Even if they do not ask for it, you want to be prepared no matter what. I would hope that whoever interviews you has a copy but you never know! And get it printed on résumé paper.
2. Be friendly to the receptionist and whoever you meet, even if they are up for the same job as you are!
The receptionist rule has popped up before on many lists- you want to be kind and respectful towards them because not only is it the decent human thing to do, but it might go a long way. The receptionist might mention something to the hiring manager about you, so make sure that the lasting impression you leave on them is a good one. After all, they might become your future co-worker!
Adding to that, be kind to everyone you meet, even people who are waiting to interview with you! You might be thinking, "Why would I try to befriend the competition!?!" Not only will this speak to your character and leave even more of a positive impression on the receptionist but it will ABSOLUTELY calm your nerves! Treating someone as a person and not merely a competition figure will put your mind at ease. Its weird but it works. Try it and let me know.
3. Silence your phone and put it away.
Silencing it is a no-brainer, but log off of Twitter before your interview. Take the time to breathe, relax and focus. That way, come interview time, you will be ready to slay.
***Also, whoever made that "imagine your interviewer is naked" rule is crazy. DO NOT DO THAT.
What do you do to prepare for an interview? Holla @AyshKittyMeow.
xxx
Monday, May 19, 2014
Post-Grad To Do List
To those of you graduating from high school or college this Spring- CONGRATULATIONS! You've worked so hard for so long and you deserve every award, diploma and degree you've earned!
Tell me if I'm the lone wolf here, but it was only a few days after my graduation when the #PostGraduationSadness set in. (Read: I graduated from college a week ago. Literally, one week.)
Unless you're jumping right into your next adventure, you might be feeling a little lost and overwhelmed with finding your next step. So, I've come up with a little list to focus on. The list does not end here by any means, but I guess we're on that journey together, you feel me?
1. Update your email/social media/LinkedIn.
Get rid of that fancy email signature with your laundry list of extracurriculars. That time has passed, sugar. I'd recommend making a new professional email account altogether. Do the social media cleanse- any embarrassing pictures need to go! Also update your LinkedIn if you use it to apply to jobs. If potential employers see your profile, you want to make sure your information is up to date.
2. Spruce up that résumé.
This post-grad-but-still-basically-a-student time is perfect to stop by your school's career service office. If you don't have one, take your résumé to people you trust to be professionals and ask for their input. If you need help building a résumé I recommend livecareer.com. It does cost, but I found it to be extremely helpful, and the templates are dope.
3. Be like Eminem and start cleanin' out your closet.
Get rid of anything you don't need. Less clutter makes it easier to move, if that's what you're doing. If not, less clutter is just generally less stressful.
4. TAKE A BREAK!
You've been working for a long time- take this time to not only reflect, but decompress. Take the time to refresh and reward yourself for all of your work. Get a new haircut, read your favorite book, take a vacation- whatever you do to really unwind! I like to fill my car up with a full tank of gas and drive around town blasting 90s pop. Don't knock it till you try it!
What's on your Post-Grad To Do List? Holla @AyshKittyMeow
xxx
Tell me if I'm the lone wolf here, but it was only a few days after my graduation when the #PostGraduationSadness set in. (Read: I graduated from college a week ago. Literally, one week.)
Unless you're jumping right into your next adventure, you might be feeling a little lost and overwhelmed with finding your next step. So, I've come up with a little list to focus on. The list does not end here by any means, but I guess we're on that journey together, you feel me?
 |
| :/ |
1. Update your email/social media/LinkedIn.
Get rid of that fancy email signature with your laundry list of extracurriculars. That time has passed, sugar. I'd recommend making a new professional email account altogether. Do the social media cleanse- any embarrassing pictures need to go! Also update your LinkedIn if you use it to apply to jobs. If potential employers see your profile, you want to make sure your information is up to date.
2. Spruce up that résumé.
This post-grad-but-still-basically-a-student time is perfect to stop by your school's career service office. If you don't have one, take your résumé to people you trust to be professionals and ask for their input. If you need help building a résumé I recommend livecareer.com. It does cost, but I found it to be extremely helpful, and the templates are dope.
3. Be like Eminem and start cleanin' out your closet.
Get rid of anything you don't need. Less clutter makes it easier to move, if that's what you're doing. If not, less clutter is just generally less stressful.
4. TAKE A BREAK!
You've been working for a long time- take this time to not only reflect, but decompress. Take the time to refresh and reward yourself for all of your work. Get a new haircut, read your favorite book, take a vacation- whatever you do to really unwind! I like to fill my car up with a full tank of gas and drive around town blasting 90s pop. Don't knock it till you try it!
What's on your Post-Grad To Do List? Holla @AyshKittyMeow
xxx
Sunday, May 18, 2014
AyshKittyBookClub: #GIRLBOSS
Oh, summertime. The perfect time of year to lay out at the pool, beach or whatever form of water of your choosing and catch up on all of those books that have been collecting on your nightstand. I love a good fictional story (if you're living under a volcano and haven't read the Hunger Games trilogy, do that NOW), but my favorite books to read are memoirs/stories from women I admire. So you can imagine my joy when I found out that Sophie Amoruso, CEO of the online clothing store NastyGal, was writing a book to share how she went from committing petty theft to being at the helm of a multi-million dollar business, all while being a total #GIRLBOSS. Loooooove.
I'm beyond excited to read this and I hope some of you decide to give it a whirl as well. I'll be posting my thoughts about my summer reading in this AyshKittyBookClub series, so feel free to suggest other books and comment with your thoughts!
To get a sneak peak, read this article from PayScale. It was one that swayed me to pick this gem up. Then, pick it up here on Amazon!
Happy reading!
xxx
I'm beyond excited to read this and I hope some of you decide to give it a whirl as well. I'll be posting my thoughts about my summer reading in this AyshKittyBookClub series, so feel free to suggest other books and comment with your thoughts!
To get a sneak peak, read this article from PayScale. It was one that swayed me to pick this gem up. Then, pick it up here on Amazon!
Happy reading!
xxx
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