The Importance of Informational Interviewing in A Down Economy

It's June 2009. Jobs in most sectors of our economy are scarce. If you are looking for a job, it is likely you've experienced your share of "thank you but no openings" responses. Or what's worse, no response at all. You need a job now. "What is the point of setting up informational interviews," you ask.

In more prosperous times, you might want to set up informational interviews for two reasons: (1) to gain information you need to help in your career choice; and (2) to make connections.

But, in this economy, it's a buyer's market and you are the seller. You want to use the informational interview process as part of your long-term job search strategy. Your goals should be (1) to build relationships for the future, (2) to ask for advice and contacts for your job search, (3) and to leave a positive impression. Here is how you start the process:

• MAKE A LIST OF PEOPLE YOU KNOW THROUGH YOUR OWN CONTACTS, CONTACTS FROM FAMILY, AND CONTACTS FROM FRIENDS, with phone numbers and email addresses (placing the information in chart form with a column for comments/ follow up.
• MAKE A LIST OF PEOPLE YOU WOULD LIKE TO MEET.
• PREPARE A SCRIPT TO TAILOR FOR EACH CONTACT.
• CALL OR EMAIL EACH CONTACT AND LET THEM KNOW: (1) your job status and area of expertise (or that you are a graduating student seeking an entry level position); (2) that you are looking for a position; (3) why you are searching; (4) where appropriate, the name of the person who referred you.
• TELL THEM YOU ARE NOT CONTACTING THEM TO ASK FOR A JOB, BUT RATHER TO ASK FOR 15 OR 20 MINUTES OF HIS OR HER TIME AT HIS/HER OFFICE TO TALK WITH YOU ABOUT THE NATURE OF THE CURRENT MARKET AND JOB SEARCH SUGGESTIONS.
• FOR THOSE CONTACTS YOU REACH BY TELEPHONE, YOU SHOULD HAVE YOUR PRESENTATION AND QUESTIONS PREPARED IN THE EVENT THE CONTACT SUGGESTS THAT YOU TALK AT THAT TIME.

Keep notes of your conversations, follow up, and the contacts recommended. Then, send a thank you note or email. Include something you found helpful during your conversation. Contact each person to whom your contact referred you, going through the same process.

Keep an open mind, cast a wide net, and maintain a positive attitude.

For more information on informational interviewing, contact Randi S. Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC, at rlewis@resumeboutique.com or 410.602.2500.

© 2009 Resume Boutique LLC. All rights reserved. http://www.resumeboutique.com/

When in Doubt, Take it Out! Social Media Users - Beware of Your Content

Blogs, facebook, My Space YouTube, Twitter, Diggs, and more. Millions of people use social media outlets to share personal information, some minute-by-minute. To some of us, they have become addictions, like the "Crackberry!"

• Whether we are obsessively connecting on facebook or responding to Tweets delivered to our iPhones, we seem to forget - or disregard - the fact that we have no expectation of privacy in this manner of connecting.
• That's particularly true when we are at work or looking for work.
• Last September, I gave job seekers eight tips for using facebook. Take a look. http://resumeboutique.blogspot.com/2008/09/no-privacy-on-facebook-8-tips-for.html.

Job seekers aren't the only ones who need to be mindful of their postings. We know employers increasingly use these new technologies to check the backgrounds of job applicants. But, senior management also read blogs, monitor their facebook accounts, and follow Twitter. Clients and customers - the same.

• Have you ever written that you had too much to drink the night before and called in sick? Posted photos that could be offensive to others? Used profanity in exchanges with others? Probably.
• Have you thought about who's reading your musings? That's right. Co-workers. Clients. Customers. Are they laughing? Maybe not so much.

Employees and job seekers take note:

1. When in Doubt, Take it Out!
2. No bare skin photos or videos. That's right. Lose the skimpy bathing suits.
3. No photos or videos of excessive drinking or partying.
4. No foul language.
5. No negative comments about co-workers, customers, or clients.
6. Remember, the standard is NOT what you think is appropriate. It's what employers, clients, colleagues, and customers think.
7. Be smart. Keep your job.

Randi S. Lewis Founder, Resume Boutique LLC ~ 410.602.2500 http://www.resumeboutique.com/ ~ info@resumeboutique.com © Resume Boutique LLC 2009. All rights reserved.

Job Search Etiquette: Nay to the Word, "Hey!"

The word, "HEY," is an informal way of saying, "HELLO." When you are in the job search process, should you use that word to address your potential employer? Our clients have asked us that question more frequently in this competitive economic climate - particularly in the context of exchanging emails.

Our Answer Remains the Same: Don't Use the Word "Hey"

Always be safe. Address people as Dear Mr. or Mrs. You can't go wrong with that. If your professional setting is much more informal, then use the words, "Hi" or "Hello." But, it depends on the industry. In the young tech world and in the entertainment industry, the rules are more relaxed. To be sure, we asked employers who are on the front lines of the hiring process to tell us their thoughts. Here's what five of them said:

1. Fifty year old lawyer and former Recruitment Committee Chair: "I am old school so my answer is no way."
2. Forty-something Recruitment Manager for Professional Services Firm: "Using 'hey' to address an employer is too informal and an immediate turnoff. It leaves me with a bad impression."
3. Thirty-something New York Casting Director: "I use it all the time, including in my emails to full-time job and summer internship applicants. I went back and looked at my emails after you posed the question and I noticed that most young people responded with a word other than 'hey' even when I used it as a greeting. I am fine with the word but I guess it's more respectful to use 'hi' or 'hello' when you are not in the driver's seat."
4. Forty-something Medical Practice Administrator: "I absolutely detest when people use that word and I would find it very disrespectful if an applicant sent me an email addressing me with the word, 'hey.'"
5. Forty-something Human Resources Director for Fortune 100 Business: "Hey is for horses. Don't ever be that informal in the interview process and don't write that in any email or correspondence if you want to work with our company."
6. Twenty-something Tech Entrepreneur: "Depends on the industry. In tech? Yes, by all means."

For more interview tips and advice, contact Randi Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC, at rlewis@resumeboutique.com 410.602.2500 http://www.resumeboutique.com/.

© 2009 by Resume Boutique LLC. All rights reserved.

Job Search - Harder and Smarter

It's April 2009.

Some businesses, organizations and governmental agencies are hiring even in today's uncertain economic climate. But more people are applying for the jobs you want. Take your job search up a few notches. Make yourself standout. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Federal government jobs are on the increase. Check out http://www.usajobs.gov/ weekly. Search trade organization websites. Send your resume and a brief note asking for any leads to any one who might be in a position to help.
2. Make it personal. Pick up the telephone. Where appropriate call the contact person and try to introduce yourself. You can't do that with federal government jobs but you may be able to make the connection in the private sector.
3. Polish your resume. One size doesn't fit all. Try not to use a template.
4. Use Keywords. Study job postings online and create a list of common words and competencies used by the employers. They're called, "keywords." Place key competencies that include key words in a core competency section at the top of your resume just below a profile section that defines/summarizes your professional achievements.
5. Lock your fear of rejection in a box. Stop planning, revising, and re-writing. Perfect your resume and just start looking for suitable positions. Send your resume to headhunters that post positions.
6. It's likely to take longer to find a position in this economic climate. Therefore, patience and determination are critical.

For a free resume critique, please contact me, Randi Lewis, at 410-602-2500, or by email at rlewis@resumeboutique.com.

© 2009 by Resume Boutique LLC™. All rights reserved. http://www.resumeboutique.com/

A Note To College Students Looking For Summer Internships

Accept the offer on the spot!

"Why?" you ask. "It's the economy, stupid," to quote a line often stated by President Clinton's campaign officials when he was running for President in 1992. I know you live in an insulated environment and that most of your parents support you. But, the economy is contracting every day. In this economy, it's hard to find work for interns when companies have less work for their paid employees. People are getting laid off from their jobs - more than 1.2 million in January and February alone. Some newer professionals are taking unpaid internships just to stay in the working world and in the hope that they might turn into paying jobs. I have completed resumes for many young people in that position, including 2008 college grads without jobs.

If you are fortunate enough to land a few interviews for unpaid internships, do your best, learn as much about the company as you can. Know WHY you want that job and be ready to discuss YOUR CAREER GOALS and how that internship aligns with those goals. There are no certainties that you will land that internship. After all, there are hundreds of students just like you lining up for those couple of jobs.

So, if you are telephoned on Friday from one of your interviewers who calls to give you the good news, JUST SAY YES!! And sound very excited and honored. You don't have the luxury of sounding non-committal and asking when you have to let them know. You might find yourself in a situation where your offer is rescinded and given to one of the 99 people anxiously waiting behind you. That's the real world. Operate from a place of gratefulness and you will do very well in this environment.

[Do I sound like your mother or father? I hope so!] Randi

Career Coaching for Women

Are you at that time in your life where you stop and take stock of your career choice and the path ahead? It's helpful to be able to talk about it with a non-family member, non-friend, who has the training and life experience to help you take ownership of your future. One of my clients in 2008 was at that crossroads in search for a different meaning in her life. I helped this business professional, with an MBA and Wall Street experience, to create a powerful resume. More importantly, a career consultant helped her reach a deeper personal understanding and re-define her goals. Robin Kahn, that brilliant consultant, works with women professionals and entrepreneurs who feel stuck. I have known Robin for many years. Her intellect combined with her professional experience and keen listening/analytical skills enable her to make a difference in people's lives. According to Robin,

"these feelings can be especially pronounced at life transitions such as midlife when we may question our purpose, or for businesses looking to get to the next level of growth. As a coach, my goal is to listen to and support clients to get from where they are to where they wish to go."

If you are at that crossroads, contact Robin. http://robin.revcetera.com/

Facebook Resume and Interview Advice Group Special for College and Grad Students

Are you in college or grad school? Are you going to apply for a summer internship? Now is the time to start getting organized. Are you a member of the Resume and Interview Advice Group on Facebook? If not, join today: http://www.facebook.com/s.php?ref=search&init=q&q=resume%20and%20interview%20advice&sid=abdbb4175cbcb55b10d42dbd28bc2859#/group.php?gid=24400964246. From Thanksgiving Day through Inaguration Day, we are running a special for College and Grad Students who are members of our Facebook Group. The offer expires on January 21, 2009. It's time to start thinking about internships and jobs for the summer of 2009. You will need a resume and a cover letter or transmittal email to apply for those positions. This special gives you a resume and a cover letter plus a list of references for $130 (actual cost is $180 so you are saving $27%).

Last year at this time, we crafted resumes and cover letters for students who applied for and landed internships across broad industry sectors. They include:

• New York publishing company
• Washington D.C. financial institution
• New York fashion industry
• New York investment banking firm
• Indpendent film company

Let us help you look your best on paper. Call or email for more information.

Randi Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC

Telephone: 410-602-2500

Email Address: rlewis@resumeboutique.com

Website: http://www.resumeboutique.com/

Obama Administration Jobs

While employers nationwide are laying off thousands of workers, there is one potential employer poised to consider your application:

The Obama-Biden Administration Transition Team

The new Administration is considering the expressions of interest for "non-career" positions. If you are interested in working for the new Administration, go to: http://www.change.gov/page/s/application. You will be asked to complete and submit an "on-line Expression of Interest Form." Within a few days, you will receive an email with a link to a more complete on-line application, which you will be required to complete. If you get to the stage where you will be interviewed, you should have a resume and a reference list ready to submit.

• Resume Boutique is poised to help you become a part of this historic administration.
• We will help you navigate the process.
• Email us your current resume for a free telephone critique. rlewis@resumeboutique.com

Election Day - Get Out The Vote

We urged you to exercise your constitutional right to vote on November 4, 2008. Well before midnight, John McCain conceded the race to Barack Obama. Change brings opportunity. Your next job may be linked to the new Administration. Think out of the box. Get your resume ready!

No Privacy On Facebook: 8 Tips for College Students & Other Job Seekers

By Randi Lewis

Facebook ~ A Means of Expression and Connection ~ But Who's Looking?

It's fun connecting with your friends on Facebook - sharing photos; videos; posting what you are doing and how you are feeling at a given moment. And, yes, there is a big BUT! But guess who is looking at your musings: POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS. Increasingly more employers are searching Facebook postings as reference tools. Facebook is becoming the third reference tool, a modern day adjunct to the Credit Report and the Criminal Background Check. Below are a few absolutes that you should consider well before you are looking for a job.

College students & younger professionals, read on.

1. Carefully review everything posted on your Facebook page including postings by others.
2. Remove postings by others that may be funny to you (inside jokes) but could be perceived as immature or unsophisticated by employers.
3. Remove all photos and videos of yourself and others that are at all sexy or seductive (no low cut tops for girls; no bare chests for boys).
4. Remove all photos and videos of yourself and others that show excessive partying or the use of alcohol.
5. Remove all other photos and videos of yourself and others that depict anything that might offend your parents or their friends.
6. Remove all content (words) that contain foul or unsophisticated language.
7. Stop writing what you are doing or feeling at any moment (i.e., "Dave is hungover and not going to classes today"; or "This new Facebook layout sucks!").
8. When in doubt, take it out!

Randi S. Lewis Founder, Resume Boutique LLC ~ 410.602.2500 http://www.resumeboutique.com/ ~ info@resumeboutique.com

© Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.

How and When to Accept a Job Offer in this Economic Climate

By Randi Lewis

~ ~ ~

It's the end of August 2008. The job market, like the housing market, has slowed considerably. Although there is more activity in some industries than others, this is not the best time to look for a job. It's a buyer's market - and you as job seeker are the seller.

~ ~ ~

Whether you are a college grad looking for that first job or a more seasoned professional who is required or just "itching" to look elsewhere, my advise from the employer's perspective is the for the most part the same. Although you don't ever want to look desperate, you should let employers know in an appropriate way, and especially if they ask you either directly or indirectly about your goals and priorities, that you are sincerely interested in the position with THAT organization.

~ ~ ~

If it's your first choice, let them know and tell them why. Here are a few other general tips - remember, your situation will vary - use your judgment and ask others for help in your process:

1. Think deeply, analytically, and clearly about which position would be best for you - if you had the choice - and prioritize your choices.
2. Be prepared to accept the job offer if it comes from your first choice - either on the spot or within short order. If you do not accept on the spot, let the employer know you are inclined to accept and let them know you will get right back to them.
3. If you receive an offer from your second or third choice, express your genuine excitement and enthusiam for the offer and then try to buy time.
4. In order to buy time, ask questions like: (a) What are the health and other benefits and would they be able to send you the information about the benefits; (b) Would they be sending you a formal offer letter; (c) What is their preferred timing for responding to the offer and for starting employment.
5. Then, immediately let your other interviewers know you received an offer and your time constraints. Inquire in an appropriate way whether they could let you know your status within your deadline.
6. When communicating with your first choice employer and you know you would accept the offer irrespective of the details - let them know that, if they gave you an offer, you would accept it on the spot. OR, if that is too bold for your style, let them know they are your first choice.
7. In any case, do not string any employer along very long. The manner in which you handle the offer process will make a difference, at least in the short term, in the manner in which your employer will view your interest in the organization and your honesty and maturity in the process.

In this economy, when jobs are scarce, don't play hard to get. Your enthusiam and professionalism will be remembered by your employer.

Randi S. Lewis Founder, Resume Boutique LLC ~ 410.602.2500 http://www.resumeboutique.com/ ~ info@resumeboutique.com © Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.

Personal Growth

There is a wealth of information on the website above. I thought you might be interested in scrolling through it. Randi

Cover Letters and Reference Lists

Don't sweat the small stuff when you are beginning to look for a new job. Here are a few simple first steps:

1. Determine what type of positions you will seek.
2. Find job postings that interest you.
3. Revise your resume using language in the qualities listed in the job postings.
4. Craft concise cover letters with two or three paragraphs. Paragraph 1: Identify yourself and why you are writing. Paragraph 2: Talk about work experiences related to the posted position AND what value you would bring to the organization. Paragraph 3: Express your interest in meeting with the employer to discuss your qualifications and express thanks for the employer's consideration, providing your contact information.
5. Compose a reference list that includes the person's full name, title, name of company, email address and telephone number. If the reference has moved on from the company from which he or she would give you a reference, use the new company and then in parentheses note the prior position and company.
6. Use the same format for the top of your resume, cover letter, and reference list.

Randi S. Lewis Founder, Resume Boutique LLC ~ 410.602.2500 http://www.resumeboutique.com/ ~ info@resumeboutique.com

© Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.

The Top of Your Resume IS Important

By Randi S. Lewis, Owner, Resume Boutique LLC

~ ~ ~

Form and substance matter on resumes. Did you know that a recruitment or human resources professional, typically the person who decides whether to "continue reading" or "discard" your resume, takes about 5 to 10 seconds to make that initial decision? As a result, you want to make sure the top of your resume looks GREAT. Here are a few simple suggestions:

1. Your name should be in bold and in larger font - 16 or 18 pts. There are a number of ways to postion your name and contact information. One clean way is to center your name and then on one or two lines you should place your address, the best telephone where you can be reached most often, and your email address. The address line should not be in bold and can be in the smallest font - no smaller than 10.5 but more commonly 11 pt.
2. In the U.S., the most commonly used font is Times New Roman. Garamond if you want an elegant look. If you have a lot of information on your resume, you probably should use 11.5 or 11 pt. font. The font of the texts shouldn't be larger than 12 pt. Your headings can be larger but no larger than 13 pt. unless you are using SMALL CAPS.
3. Objective vs. Profile or Summary of Qualifications. Most sample resumes suggest placing an objective at the top of your resume. As a recruitment professional who is the first stop for people's resumes, my view is that most Objective sections are meaningless and can serve to undermine the resume. So, my advice: don't waste your time writing an objective. Instead, write a Profile or Summary of Qualifications.
4. Here is an example of one recent profile I wrote: Accomplished executive with 20 years of sales, marketing and operational leadership achievements in the insurance industry and track record of establishing, developing, maintaining, and growing profitable business relationships in a broad range of industries. Collaborative leader with refined networking skills and proven ability to recruit, train, and motivate top-performing sales teams. Lead and manage operations of firm’s largest revenue-generating department.
5. Here is an example of a summary of qualifications (or profile): Employee benefits, ERISA, and retirement plan specialist with a recent law degree and more than 17 years of experience working with major companies and financial institutions administering retirement plans. Extremely thorough and detail-oriented professional with experience designing and drafting plan documents and amendments, conducting and overseeing non-discrimination testing, ensuring operational compliance with plan documents, timely governmental reporting, and disclosure of plan changes and modifications to participants.
6. Here is an example of the profile of an army sergeant looking for employment after completion of his tour of duty: United States Army Sergeant with secret security clearance and eight years of experience in maintenance procedures and repair for Patriot Missile Defense Mission. Strong leader, responsible for the tactical training, morale, health and welfare of other soldiers and for the accountability and maintenance of section equipment. Loyal team player recognized for having unlimited potential, the ability to take direction well and manage time effectively, and creatively executing missions. Seeking civilian position upon completion of tour of duty. ~ ~ ~

Resume Boutique LLC ~ 410.602.2500

http://www.resumeboutique.com/ ~ info@resumeboutique.com

© Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.

Don't Define Yourself By Whether Or Not You Get THE Job

YOU KNOW YOU CAN MASTER THE JOB. BUT WHAT MATTERS IS ONE THING: WHAT THE MARKET WANTS.

In this slowing economy, the job market is even more competitive than in years past. In recent months, our clients have had to search harder and smarter to find suitable positions.

EXECUTIVES and MANAGERS

This has been particularly true for more senior executives and business owners looking for new opportunities. It's been evident to our resume writers that our experienced managers and executives could add real value to companies seeking more junior employees. But some clients have found that potential employers don't see it their way. For example, an entrepreneur who was seeking upper management/executive opportunities after he recently wound down his financial services company, was answering job postings for managers with 5-10 years experience. "I will work for the same salary as a 10 year executive but bring my 22 years of experience to the table," he told me. "Why wouldn't a company want 22 years of experience and pay for 10?"

~ ~ ~

But the answer to that question is irrelevant. Our seasoned executive cannot set the bar. He has to accept the market's desires in most situations. So, last week, he then went to Plan B: he began contacting every business contact in his Outlook Contacts List to ask for advice and assistance. When searching for the right next position, target your search to minimize your frustration and don't define yourself by not being what the market wants. Find the market that wants what you can contribute. Then start your search with your base: the people who know your skills; your intellect; your work ethic; and ask for their advice and assistance.

COLLEGE STUDENTS

When you are a college student looking for a summer position, it's even more difficult to understand that it's not about you if you aren't selected for all the positions you seek! If you are looking for a job in any major city like New York, D.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, you likely are competing with hundreds, if not thousands, of students throughout the country. You might be a sophomore with a 3.6 from Princeton with a major in economics and you don't get the internship you covet. You are devastated and start thinking there is something wrong with you. Not a chance! There was simply someone else in the job pool, for whatever reason, landed the job. You would have done well too. Just keep on looking for a position. It only takes one job. And when you are working there for the summer, take ownership of your work, go the extra mile, and don't exhibit a sense of entitlement about anything. Exhibit gratitude in your demeanor.

Randi S. Lewis Founder, Resume Boutique LLC ~ 410.602.2500 http://www.resumeboutique.com/ ~ info@resumeboutique.com © Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.

Lawyers Close to Partnership - Evaluating Your Situation In Our Slowing Economy

The crash of the subprime mortgage industry, rising gas prices, and a looming recession is having an impact on most sectors of the U.S. economy. Certain law firms are among those beginning to feel the pain. New York firms - even those not impacted by the subprime crisis - are tightening their belts and being more selective in their hiring, particularly of lateral lawyers.

~ ~ ~

Law firm COO's and Executive Committees are preparing for a difficult year. What does that mean for you? Are you next in line to be considered for elevation to partner? You may be less likely to move up the ladder this year - or for the next period of time. If you will not make partner, you may be thinking of going somewhere else. But don't make that decision, and surely don't telegraph that to the partners, until you very discretely test the market. If you are not in an "up or out" situation, in this economy, it may be wise to wait. Here are a few things you can do to evaluate the market in a discrete way to assess the legal market:

1. Ask a colleague in another firm to connect you with his/her firm's recruitment professional.
2. Talk with a headhunter or two about their experiences with the market.
3. Evaluate job websites to determine what experience level firms are seeking now.

If your research leads you to believe it will be difficult for you to make a move now, you should consider staying where you are, working harder, deepening relationships with clients, and attempting to find a way to get some business. Your marketability will increase if you have your own business.

Randi S. Lewis

Founder, Resume Boutique LLC ~ 410.602.2500

http://www.resumeboutique.com/ ~ info@resumeboutique.com

© Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.

What Happened To The Handshake?

By: Randi S. Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC

~ ~ ~

Can your handshake really make a difference? The answer is a resounding YES! Whether you are a high school student going on a college interview or a seasoned professional meeting with potential new business colleagues, the manner in which you greet others matters. A strong handshake coupled with eye contact and a proper greeting will create an initial positive impression. A weak handshake, on the other hand, is perceived as a sign of weakness.

Here are a few simple handshake tips:

• At the beginning of your meeting, stand tall, extend your hand, smile, look the person in the eye, shake his or her hand fully and firmly, and say, "Hello Mr. Smith, Randi Lewis. Nice to meet you."
• If you are a novice interviewer, practice this with someone else until you get it right.
• The handshake should last for about three pumps.
• You should maintain eye contact the entire time.
• If you have a strong handshake, your interviewer is likely to form the immediate impression that you are confident and invested in the interview. This sets the tone for the interview and the rest will be up to you.
• At the end of the interview, stand up, approach your interviewer, extend your hand, shake firmly with the three pumps and the eye contact and say something like, "Thank you, Mr. Smith, for meeting with me. I enjoyed our conversation."

For more information about the importance of handshakes, contact Randi Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC, at 410.602.2500 or rlewis@resumeboutique.com.

http://www.resumeboutique.com/

© Resume Boutique LLC 2008. All rights reserved.

An Executive Seeking A Different Opportunity Needs Patience

Patience in the Process; Clarity in Your Goals. When you are a seasoned executive looking to move on, there may be a pot of gold waiting for you at the end of a rainbow, but you need to be patient until the right opportunity presents itself. I don't mean to suggest that you should wait until an opportunity comes to you, rather that you need to have stamina during your search. Sometimes it takes years to find the right fit. And, you need to have clarity in regard to what it will take for you to change positions, because negotiating the deal is as important as getting the offer. Below are a few anecdotes where patience and perseverance were victorious.

~ ~ ~

1. Four years ago, I began working with an executive at the director level of an international company. After being passed over more than once for several Vice President positions, he began looking elsewhere. I revised his resume several times in three years. Unfortunately, he couldn't land a job that would provide stability for himself and his family. He faced signficant rejection and was demoralized each time he wasn't selected as "the candidate." He remained with his company and continued to pursue other opportunities. This November, he finally landed a new position - at the VP level of another international company!
2. Two years ago, I had the pleasure of revising the resume of a senior hospital administrator. His background and experience were extremely impressive. He wasn't really looking for a new position, but an executive search firm had contacted him about an interesting position out of state. After learning more about the position, he withdrew his name from consideration and remained content in his position. Recently, he was contacted again by another executive search firm and sent his resume right away. It looks like he is poised to land the coveted executive position, but he said it will have to be something special for him to leave his position.
3. In the summer of 2006, I wrote a resume for a talented business executive at the Vice President level of a sports organization who was being courted by a couple of other franchises. He came close to accepting an offer at the President level of a larger sports organization, but his instincts during the negotiation process told him it was not the right fit for him. He remained with his team. Then, about a month ago, he accepted the COO position of another sports franchise. He will do wonderful things for the organization, and I will be routing for the team with a big smile.

Whether you are a senior executive or a newer employee, patience in the process will serve you well. And, doing your research and other due diligence about the new opportunity should help you make an informed decision about your future.

Randi S. Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC, http://www.resumeboutique.com/

© Resume Boutique LLC 2007. All rights reserved.

Tips for Choosing A Career and Succeeding At Work

By Randi S. Lewis

Career Development Professional and Resume Writer

How do you find an appropriate career? And once you do, how do you succeed? Here are a few tips to consider.

Five Things to Consider When Choosing A Career:

1. Let your passions help guide your career choices.
2. Identify the things you do well.
3. Determine what motivates you (i.e.: public service; financial security; fame; intellectual stimulation).
4. Develop a reasonably achievable plan to find and pursue careers that would align your passions with your aptitudes.
5. Take risks and don't be deterred by rejection or failure. Success is around the corner.

Five Tips to Help You Succeed At Work:

1. Learn your craft by working hard, observing others, participating in relevant workshops, and reading work-related materials.
2. Listen well, ask questions, don't gossip, and take ownership of your work.
3. Find a mentor to help guide you through your career.
4. Treat everyone in your office with the utmost respect, while exuding a sense of gratitude, not entitlement.
5. Ask for feedback and respond appreciatively to constructive criticism.

Randi S. Lewis

Founder, Resume Boutique LLC

http://www.resumeboutique.com/

© Resume Boutique LLC 2007. All rights reserved.

Scented Resumes on Pink Paper? Only if you are Reese Witherspoon!

In the summer of 2006, I wrote a resume for a recent college grad looking for his first job. He had been advised to put his photo on his resume and it was not easy for me to convince him that was not a good idea. He wanted to print his resume on blue paper. Also not a good idea.

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After all, the only one who could get away with a pink, scented resume was Reese Witherspoon playing a law student, Elle Woods, in the movie Legally Blonde.

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In the end, he took my advice about the photo and the colored paper. He also landed a nice job in the business world.

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This month, I had the pleasure of working with this delightful, energetic, young professional again. He is being courted by another company and needed to update his resume. He brought up the photo issue again and told me he thought it was commonplace now in NYC. My response was that I was unaware of this new trend (I even called one of the NYC headhunters with whom I work, who confirmed my suspicions - NO PHOTOS).

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Earlier this week, I received an email from a representative of HR World (http://www.hrworld.com/), referring me to a recent posting entitled, "25 Things You Should Never Include on a Resume " (http://www.hrworld.com/features/25-things-not-to-put-on-resume-121807/). The list contains very basic, important information about "resume don'ts," some of which should be intuitive. I had to smile when I saw No. 14. Here is what was posted:

• "14. Photograph: JobFairy.com reports that hiring departments "legally cannot consider your picture in determining if you are to be interviewed, or hired," and that "many companies won't even consider résumés that are submitted with a picture to ensure that they are in compliance with [the Equal Opportunity Employer]" legislation. Keep in mind, however, that if you are applying for jobs overseas, photographs may be the norm on résumés."

I rest my case!

In regard to the other 24 listings about what not to put on your resume, I agree with most of them, but not with all. For example, the two that concern me the most are numbers 4 and 5. As most of you should know, the term is sexual orientation, not sexual preference, for no. 4. And for sexual orientation and religion, whether they would be placed on your resume would absolutely depend!

If you want to know more about my advice on those issues, feel free to contact me at 410-602-2500 or by email at: rlewis@resumeboutique.com.

Happy Holidays. Randi

Randi S. Lewis, Founder, Resume Boutique LLC, http://www.resumeboutique.com/

© Resume Boutique LLC 2007. All rights reserved.

What They Don't Teach You In Law School About Job Search Etiquette

By Randi S. Lewis

Legal Recruiters of AmLaw 250 firms throughout the country have reported similar frustrations, disappointments, and other experiences in their dealings with second year law students during the fall interview process for summer associate positions. Below are a few tips for law students (applicable also to any job applicant in any field) interviewing for summer positions and full time associate positions.

1. Voicemail message - make it professional: The voicemail message on your contact telephone should sound professional. Your message SHOULD NOT start with the word, "HEY." A simple, "Hello, this is Joe Smith. Please leave a message at the tone," will do.
2. Returning phone calls and emails: Return phone calls and emails promptly from recruiters and lawyers from the firms with which you interviewed - even if you have no interest in working with that firm. You never want to burn a bridge because a few years after your law school graduation you might decide the firm to which you were unresponsive may be a better fit for you. It is likely there will be a note in your file about your failure to communicate that could hurt your chances of being considered as a lateral candidate.
3. Decline ASAP if you are not interested: And, if you are not interested in working with a particular firm and have at least another offer with a firm of interest, kindly decline with the other firm(s) ASAP - notwithstanding the NALP rules that allow you to hold a certain number of offers. You will not hurt anyone's feelings. This is a business. For every offer a firm extends, they have multiple applicants who WOULD BE interested in the position.
4. Accept as soon as possible: If you have an offer from your firm of choice, accept within a reasonable time. Don't hold on to the offer too long if you don't have a good reason. Firms like to receive acceptances early. The firm that gives you an offer remembers when people accept. If you are unsure, establish honest and frequent communications with the recruitment professional to continue reaffirming your interest while exploring other options.
5. All written communications must be ERROR-FREE: Proofread all emails, resumes, letters, deal sheets and thank you notes before sending them. Make sure correspondence is addressed to the correct person with the correct title.

© Resume Boutique LLC 2007. All rights reserved.

For more information on resumes, interviewing techniques, and summer associate success tips, contact Randi S. Lewis, Founder of Resume Boutique LLC. 410.602.2500 ~ rlewis@resumeboutique.com

http://www.resumeboutique.com/