On the Balls of Our A$$ets

Where I've Been

2025-04-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi and happy spring! I hope everyone's doing well.

Apologies for the long pause between posts. I've moved to Substack to do more book-related updates. I didn't want to add this subscriber list there because I've been on the receiving end of a "surprise" subscription and usually don't appreciate it. But if you'd care to join me on Substack for my monthly musings on the writing life (complete with book and sometimes TV recommendations), please do. I'd love to have you! You can subscribe for free here.

I've tried to keep this blog primarily career-focused and so with that I'll share the latest ups and downs.

As I think many will attest, it's rough out there. Several editors who sent freelance work my way were laid off last year. I've applied for a number of full-time jobs and haven't gotten too far. Sometimes I'm not surprised as I know I'm competing against hundreds of applicants (at least according to LinkedIn). On other occasions, I shout at the rejection email, "How are you moving forward with more qualified candidates?! I'm overqualified for this?!"

An example: I've been writing sponsored content about hearing loss, hearing issues, and hearing devices for an audiologist for the past several years. All totaled, I've created maybe 40 articles. So, in addition to giving me a healthy fear of tinnitus, these assignments make me seem qualified for a writing gig at a hearing device manufacturing company, right? Apparently not. After applying for a full-time content writing job (in the hope of securing decent benefits), at an audiology company, I received an email letting me know they were moving ahead with ... you guessed it! ... more qualified candidates. Oh well.

So, when the owner of a local bookstore who has been very supportive of me and my work, asked if I'd cover some shifts this summer, I jumped at the opportunity for several reasons.

A) The thought of being surrounded by books fills me with joy.

B) They've got a fancy Italian coffee machine so I'm learning to make cappuccino and will add this to my resume!

C) It's a great excuse to force myself to get off my couch and out of sweatpants.

D) I'll also be helping plan author and other events and I'm excited to see where this goes.

E) No one else wants me.

I started training a few weeks ago and I've learned that bookstores have lovely customers. No one is in a rush or irritable. So far, it's delightful.

Speaking of books, I have a bit of news. I've written another thriller, which was released in late March ...

... and a romcom, Claire Casey's Had Enough, which has been seven long years in the making, and comes out in June.

Here's a bit more on that....

These projects have kept me pretty busy, though I'd describe them more as a labor of love rather than a get-rich-quick scheme.

While I'd be honored if you'd consider buying a copy, books, like eggs and pretty much everything else in the modern world, are expensive. I'd be just as thrilled if you'd ask your library to order a book or audiobook.

Thank you so much for sticking with me for these sporadic missives! I truly hope you're doing well!

'Are You Exposing Yourself in Stairwells?' (& Other Things I Expect People to Ask My Husband)

2024-01-03T13:21:00.000-08:00

Jorge Salvador/unsplash

Hi & Happy New Year. (According to Larry David, I can say that until today.)

Over the weekend, I called a friend to wish him a happy new year. We've texted a bit over the last few months (mainly about which TV shows we're watching or books we're reading) but we hadn't spoken in a while.

After a bit, talk turned to jobs. The company where he's worked for years just laid off five percent of its workforce in a rather cruel fashion--calling people down to HR, releasing them, and then asking "non-impacted" employees to box up their desks.

While stories like these strike fear in my heart and dredge up terrible memories, my friend remained pretty calm and said if he's handed a pink slip he wouldn't mind retiring.

I almost blurted, "Retiring? What's that?"

Then he asked how my husband's job was going.

"Where did we leave off?" I asked him wearily.

Reader, where did we leave off?

OK, I just checked and the answer is February. Whoops. Sorry about that. This year has been a bit of a blur. So about my husband's job...

In the fall of 2022, he left a startup for what sounded like a great opportunity. (Don't they all?) More money, more growth potential... Until he got there and suddenly they were letting people go daily.

Frequently, I'd catch the end of a conference call and hear the person leading the meeting ask, "Can everyone stay on for a minute?" Awkward silence followed before the person announced, "Next Thursday is my last day..."

Each time this happened I'd feel my blood pressure skyrocket. Was this a bad omen? I'll cut to the chase. Yes. Yes, it was. My husband wasn't laid off but the person who was supposed to train him in his new role was. Rich thought, "That's okay, I've still got this peer who can show me the ropes."

Not so fast! That guy was let go too. On and on it went like that for eight grueling weeks and suddenly Rich's new exciting role felt like winning a cabin on the Titanic as it races toward Newfoundland.

He left on his own and within a few weeks he had two offers on the table.

"Well that was easy!" we rejoiced.

Rich made his decision based on the manager he sensed he could learn the most from. That role was slightly more appealing than the other, so it felt like the right choice.

And he was happy ... for four months...

Unfortunately, his manager had a health issue that, initially, seemed like something that would only require a few weeks off. Then he resigned.

The recruiter who'd placed Rich in that role called him that evening and said, "Don't worry. The project will continue to move forward. We're already looking for a replacement for (man who just resigned)..." That was at 7 p.m. on a Thursday.

By 9 a.m. Friday, the same person who assured Rich he could rest easy told him to pack up his laptop and return it to HQ. The project was cancelled.

"No!" I cried, sinking to the kitchen floor. "How?"

Of course, Rich's manager's health concerns certainly put things in perspective, but still, being told not to worry and then instructed to return your supplies ASAP was whiplash-inducing and did nothing to bolster our already-shaky faith in Corporate America.

But as this wasn't our first (or even second or third) layoff rodeo, so we absorbed it with less shock than on previous occasions.

That said, my first thought was, "OMG, how can we tell anyone about this?" then I said to my husband, only half-kidding, "People are going to start asking if you're exposing yourself in stairwells."

You see, Rich was at the same company for close to twenty years. Since 2013, he's held more roles than we can count.

In an attempt to take back a bit of control, he/we have started a college essay tutoring business and are hoping to start marketing it in the spring. If you know of any students who need some guidance, we'd love to help them.

In other writing news, this fall I worked on edits for Sad Sacked, which will come out in print and ebook June 11. I had a chance to add in things like lists and multiple choice quizzes (mocking Corporate America's hiring and downsizing practices, which, sadly, are still relevant--see above!) that were originally cut as they don't work as well for audio.

I also accepted an offer on my next domestic suspense novel, The House on Cold Creek Lane, which will be released in August.

I've also been freelancing and wondering if maybe it's time to really look for a full-time job again. Then something like this happens...

Last week, I had a call with a recruiter who had reached out about a part-time opportunity. When we spoke she told me that after doing a little more research on the role she had me in mind for, she learned the company (Verizon) was not looking for “senior” people. She admitted that was "ageist" but said there was nothing she could do about it.

I wanted to tell her, "Look, I can totally act younger. I'll pop in my AirPods, scroll TikTok, and use words like 'lit,' 'fire,' 'mid,' and 'rizz.' I even know how to Zoom from my phone..."

But I saved my breath. Chances are if I got the gig it wouldn't last long anyway.

As always, thank you for reading and I hope your career is going better than mine!

How to Land a Job Without a College Degree

2023-02-16T05:37:00.010-08:00

Baim/Unsplash.com

Over the past few months I've spoken with several people who've said that, for different reasons, college isn't the right path for their child.

You don't need to be a parent to know that college tuition has become outrageously expensive—to the point that you begin to wonder about return on investment—depending on where you go, what you study, and, most importantly (at least according to my dad) how hard you apply yourself, of course.

EducationData.org estimates the average four-year Bachelor's degree debt from a private college at $58,600 and $31,900 from a public institution.

Without going down an economic rabbit hole, being saddled with this expense has a ripple effect. For example, graduates burdened by debt can't afford housing and tend to live with their parents longer (cue my screaming), which, in turn, impacts landlords/real estate agents, home inspectors, etc., etc.

I often joke that the most useful thing I learned in college was how to start a conversation with strangers (mostly around a keg), which I guess has been helpful when it comes to networking (over coffee while wishing it were a keg).

Even with a more reasonable price tag of $12,000 a year—the cost of my tuition back in the early '90s—that seems like quite an expenditure for what I loosely call my "skillset."

Though I loved majoring in English, it probably comes as a shock to no one how infrequently The Canterbury Tales comes up in conversation.

Still, I wouldn't change my experience—or my major. I'm beyond grateful that I had that opportunity.

That said, I can completely understand those who question if college is worth its current cost—especially in light of rampant layoffs and the constant chatter about robots coming for our jobs.

Fortunately, there isn't a single path to success. Yet the idea of applying for a job without a college degree on your resume seems daunting.

So, when I received a press release offering tips on how to land a job without a college degree, I was intrigued and wanted to share it.

(Side note: A friend asked me if I was getting paid to post these expert pieces. Reader, I'm not, but if I could figure out how to monetize these I'd probably be a lot less stressed about how I'll help my kids pay for college! I receive between 50 and 100 press releases on any given day. The topics range from career insights to innovations in carseats and canine breath mints so I select the ones I find most helpful to this audience, like this one...)

In his new book EXPERIENTIAL INTELLIGENCE: Harness the Power of Experience for Personal and Business Breakthroughs, Soren Kaplan explores how experiential intelligence (or “XQ”), a combination of mindsets, abilities, and know-how gathered from life experience, shape our opportunities in ways we often don’t recognize.

As a serial entrepreneur, Kaplan sees innovative companies looking “outside the box” at a wider selection of candidates, based not on college degrees, but on experiences, skills, and passions. Candidates are now empowered to seek opportunities they may have avoided in the past, tapping their full set of skills and experiences.

Kaplan explains that employers increasingly value actual job and life experiences over college degrees on resumes, and more companies (from IBM to Tesla) have relaxed such requirements.

Kaplan proposes 5 Strategies for Getting a Job without a College Degree:

1. Explore Experiences – Consider all your work and life experience and identify specific things you’ve done that could present unique assets you can leverage in your resume.

Consider travel, volunteering, community service, clubs, sports, art, family rituals, or anything else that may impact your thinking, specific skills, or abilities.

2. Create Connection Points – Select a few of your experiences and identify how they gave you assets that may benefit a specific job or position.

For example, traveling abroad may have instilled an appreciation for different cultures, which might support a position in marketing since empathy is an important ability for understanding customer needs.

3. Share a Story – Select one of your experiences and write a 1-2 paragraph story about it, and how it supports your ideal job or specific opportunity.

Use the story in your cover letter and weave it into interviews to highlight your unconventional experience and how it will help you excel in the job.

4. Get Certified – Many opportunities exist to gain certifications for specific jobs that sidestep the need for a formal college degree.

Coursera, for example, has partnered with Google and others to offer career certificates – an instant qualification for various high-paying jobs.

5. Volunteer – While you might not yet have direct work experience in a field, seek out volunteering opportunities to support your vision of the ideal job.

For example, if you want a job in a specific field(s) but lack experience, explore volunteering; i.e., offer tech support at a nonprofit to qualify for IT, or get trained as a community mediator to help get into HR.

Even if you have a college degree, these are useful suggestions for showcasing your life experience to illustrate your value. I hope you find them helpful.

As always, thanks for reading!

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Rejection as Redirection

2023-01-25T07:58:00.001-08:00

markkoenig/unsplash

Last spring I received an email from a website I'd contributed to in the past. The editors were seeking submissions for a summer issue and the topic was coupling or uncoupling (hat tip to Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin) at midlife.

Typically, for better or worse, I write whatever moves me. In other words, I don't usually respond well to call-outs or writing prompts. But I'd had an idea in my head for a few months that sort of fit the bill. I'd put off writing it for no other reason than sheer laziness. When I read this email, it felt like the universe prodding me to just write it already. So, I drafted, revised, mulled, polished, and eventually sent off the piece.

While I wasn't expecting a quick response, I was expecting a response—especially when it got to be a month past the submission deadline. Still, I heard nothing. I waited a month and followed up with a polite, "Just checking to see when you'll make a decision for this upcoming issue..." Nothing.

I waited another month and by this time it was mid-to-late-summer—even the mosquitoes and fireflies were over it—so I thought, "Surely this summer issue must be dropping soon." As such, I felt I deserved a "yay" or a "nay." I decided I'd send one more email, a quick, "Hi! Just wondering if you're interested in including this piece in your upcoming issue? If not, I'd appreciate it if you could let me know as I'd like to submit it elsewhere. Thanks!"

Again, nothing. Days shy of September, I received a form rejection. Now no one likes to have their work declined, but sometimes in the writing world you're just grateful to receive a response. (Sad but true.) Plus, I'd given up hope of hearing back at all.

But that didn't mean I'd given up on the piece. If I've made something, I don't want to see it go to waste. (Don't get me started on the rom-com that sits unloved in my iCloud.) I'm the same way with food. Whether it's two leftover quesadilla triangles or a half-inch of Thousand Island dressing, I stare into my refrigerator's bright white glow and say to myself, "I'm giving this to someone and they're going to enjoy it!" (Side note: I just learned my pal Alison Y. feels the same way! We bonded over the fact that we will eat two whole avocados in one sitting rather than allow them to get overripe and wrinkle up like raisins.)

I apply this philosophy to writing as well. So I thought about it for a while, wondering, "Where else could I send this essay?" By late October, I came up with the answer. I submitted just the pitch for the piece and within days an editor asked to see a draft. Since I'd already written it, that was easy. I sent the essay and three days later the editor wrote back to say she'd like to run it.

Now, reader, here's the best part—not only does this publication have a much wider reach than the first place, but also I was paid six times what the other site would've offered.

I'm sharing this not to be all "Yay, me!" or "Please go read this essay!" but because so often we take rejection personally. We view it as a sign that we aren't good enough, that our work isn't good enough. It's hard to not internalize it and give up. Yet so much—especially in writing or even job hunting—is beyond our control. A lot is purely subjective. I was on a webinar yesterday and the word "resonate" was used no less than 1,200 times so I won't say that here. But what I mean is this: Often whether something "clicks" with a reader or hiring manager is out of our hands.

Instead of feeling down about it, what if we viewed rejection as redirection—a road block or detour that pops up to guide you to a new, better destination? It's not easy, but that's how I'm choosing to see it.

As I mentioned a few posts ago, the final months of 2022 were rife with rejection for projects I believe in. (More on that in another post.)

These rejections stung—like bees multiplied by jellyfish raised to the power of murder hornets—but I'm not giving up. I refuse to let them go to waste.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to enjoy a zucchini that's been shriveling in the bottom of my crisper.

Thanks for reading!

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How to Negotiate a Pay Raise Amid Rising Layoffs and Ongoing Inflation

2023-01-17T07:28:00.011-08:00

geralt/pixabay

One of my grandmother's favorite sayings was, "You don't ask, you don't get."

And yet even when you're not requesting something over-the-top or unreasonable, there's an inherent awkwardness to the whole business of "asking."

When you put yourself out there, you run the risk of hearing "no." You also make yourself vulnerable in a way that feels brutally uncomfortable.

Sometimes even when your ask results in a "yes," you may still want to hide in the trunk of your car (preferably with a layer cake) for a while afterward.

But, again, if you don't ask for something you need or want, you're probably never going to get it.

Here's an example of where my reluctance to ask is holding me back: When my YA thriller came out in April 2021, my publisher's marketing team (and pretty much every book-industry PR person on the internet) said, "You need reviews! You have to get lots and lots of reviews! The more reviews the better! The more you have, the more the algorithms will promote your book, and, in turn, the more books you'll sell etc."

There wasn't a single person out there who said what I wanted to hear, which was, "Oh, you have 8 reviews? Cool. That seems like plenty!"

So each time someone said something kind about the book, a voice in my head screamed, "ASK THEM TO WRITE A REVIEW!" Then another voice fired back, "SHUT UP! That's a big ask. No one has time! It's enough that they read the book!"

You'd think over time I would've gotten better at making this request. Reader, I have not. The few times I've done it, I feel vile and dirty—like I stole a little kid's lunch money or tripped an old lady so I could nab the last Swedish meatball free sample at Costco.

And yet...last summer when I began pitching The Perfect Neighborhood to local libraries, asking them to consider it for their book clubs, one responded with, "Get back to me when you have over 100 4-star or higher reviews."

Yikes! I know I'm not alone in finding this difficult. In an effort to overcome it, I'm going to write a piece about exactly how to get comfortable with asking for reviews for Writers Helping Writers, which will include scripts on exactly what to say. Stay tuned! (And thank you to everyone who takes the time to write a book review, it truly makes a difference!)

Over the past few years, I've written pieces on how to make difficult asks, like how to talk to your boss about continuing to work remotely post-Covid and how to make a similar request when you're caring for aging parents.

Another always-challenging topic is asking for a raise. But, let's be honest, who couldn't use a bump in pay these days? I mean, have you seen the price of eggs? I'm on the verge of abducting a chicken.

If you're a returning reader to this blog, you may be thinking, "But

Liz, what advice could you possibly offer on negotiating a raise? Bachelor engagements last longer than some of your recent stints!"

To which I say, "I know! I know!"

So for this topic, I offer the advice of Andres Lares, managing partner at Shapiro Negotiations Institute and co-author of Persuade: The 4-Step Process to Influence People and Decisions.

Lares's expertise ranges from coaching live negotiations for sports clients including the Cleveland Browns, the Brooklyn Nets, and more.

Here are Lares's top 4 tips for negotiating a salary increase:

1. Consider asking for a raise. Discussing inflation and worker pay is unavoidable at this point but a large number of companies don't factor in inflation when giving out annual salary increases and bonuses. If you haven't asked for a raise in the last year you’re likely kicking yourself which means you are aware of the shift in the market. Led by layoffs in tech, the employee market has clearly cooled down quite a bit so you don’t have as much leverage. But, depending on the role, your performance, etc. you still may have plenty of leverage. Inflation is still a thing and keeping an employee is always much cheaper and easier than getting a new one. But, make sure you ask nicely, with empathy. As a potential recession looms, there is more pressure on companies to cut costs and you need to be aware of this as you make the ask.

via GIPHY

2. Come prepared. Script out what you’re going to say and then roleplay in the mirror or with a friend. This allows you to get confident, convey confidence, and start strong. You can initiate the conversation easily by mentioning after doing some market research and assessing the way that inflation has affected your cost of living, you believe that an increase in salary is appropriate. It may take practice, but the more you do it, the more empowered you’ll feel.

3. Communicate value. Simplify the desired end result in your mind, and use that as a starting point to map out the ways that goal is beneficial for everyone involved. Communicate your desire clearly and then highlight your accomplishments (i.e. you've worked at this company for several years, you have successfully managed multiple clients, contributed to the bottom line, etc). But, use the past as a prediction of the future rather than just looking backward. You aren’t getting a raise for what you’ve done but instead for what you are predicted to achieve.

4. Be open to other options. Remember employers can negotiate areas such as title, health insurance, 401k contributions, expensing commuting costs, increasing paid time off, etc. This is also very important because otherwise you can quickly get aggressive and negotiate in a fixed manner. Remember, the key is to negotiate to improve your situation but do so in a way that still at least satisfies your employer. After all, is a one-time 5% raise worth destroying a relationship with an employer? That should not deter you from asking, but it should guide HOW you do it.

Thanks for reading!

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12 New Year’s Resolutions for Job Seekers

2023-01-06T07:06:00.009-08:00

Debby Hudson/Unsplash

Happy 2023! Typically, I try not to say things like "good riddance!" about the outgoing year because it seems ungrateful. Like, hello, I'm alive during a time period when I can DoorDash a McFlurry, I have no right to complain about anything.

Additionally, bemoaning the prior year always feels a bit like tempting fate—as if you're daring the universe to say, "Oh, you thought that year was bad? Wait 'til you see this one!"

But this year, I'm not going to lie, I'm grateful for a fresh start. It was a long December filled with health issues for my mom and professional disappointments for me (more about this in a separate post).

While I'm not usually one to make resolutions or allow the flip of a calendar page to dictate my mood, there's no denying there's something energizing about the chance to begin again.

If you're eager to forge a new path this year, consider these "resolutions," shared by FlexJobs' career experts, which may help kickstart your job search.

Best of luck, and if you have tips that have worked for you, please share them in the comments!

1. Update Your Resume
If it’s been a while since a resume was refreshed, set aside some time to revise it in January. Chances are, job seekers have new skills and experiences to add that may be missing from their current resumes. Once updates are included, ask a trusted friend or a career coach to review the resume for holes, unnecessary lingo, and areas for improvement. Most importantly, don’t forget to customize the resume to align with each job.

(This one might seem obvious, but I recently skimmed my resume and, yikes, it desperately needs an update.

To underscore the point above, I spoke with a headhunter friend just before the holidays and she also noted that creating different resumés to highlight the skills that'll make you stand out for the specific job is key.

Right now my resumé reads like a Cheesecake Factory menu—there's a lot of everything on there.)

2. Clean Up Social Media
It’s easy to post something to social media and think nothing more about it. But when job searching or trying for a promotion, it’s extremely important to keep social media pages clean. Social media can be a powerful job search tool, so it really pays to make sure all profiles are up to date and professional. Plus, recruiters and hiring managers are looking at social media, meaning an applicant’s misstep on social media could cost them the job.

3. Solidify Your Professional Brand
To stand out from others and make an impression, job seekers need a solid and consistent personal brand. Workers can start by evaluating their professional goals and aspirations, then building an online presence that shows who they are as a professional and why others should want to employ them. This is a good time to create an elevator pitch that can further solidify a candidate’s brand and expertise. If there are past work samples to showcase, a personal website can also give recruiters insight into a worker’s skills and experience.

(My headhunter pal also mentioned the value of creating a website. I use Wix.com for my author site and I've found it pretty intuitive, and I say this as someone who struggles to locate the flashlight app on her iPhone. When I've needed assistance, the chat bot helped me get back on track.)

4. Find a Mentor
A good career mentor is a person who is a few years in a given field and is willing and able to meet on a regular basis to provide guidance on how to handle job search and career-related questions. Ideally, a mentor is someone to count on and be objective in a way that close friends and family cannot be.

5. Grow Your Network
A solid and well-nurtured network is the foundation for continued job search success. It’s also important to continually grow your network to increase job prospects. As a job seeker, explore the different areas to meet and network with new people. Consider attending in-person or virtual career fairs, joining a professional organization, and reaching out to others via social media.

6. Spruce Up Key Skills
Professional development can enhance resumes and show potential employers that a candidate has a growth mindset and is willing to continually grow their skills. Search through job descriptions to see what employers in a given field are looking for, and determine if your education and skills are a match. If not, take an online class to stay ahead of the curve and be more hirable in your intended field.

7. Organize Your Home Office
A clean and organized workspace can help job seekers think more clearly as they apply for jobs. Make sure office areas are neat, tidy, and free of any clutter. It’s a good idea to clear out the digital clutter as well and delete unimportant files and programs to help your computer run more efficiently.

8. Clearly Define What You Want
Once a job seeker has their application materials and home office in order, it’s time to really define what they want in a job so they can embark on a targeted, effective job search. Start by identifying the targeted fields and career categories and exploring what type of schedule and flexibility is needed in a job. Do you want to work remotely some or all of the time? Are you looking for a fully flexible schedule, or are you okay with set hours? Would you prefer an employee or freelance position? Beginning a job search with answers to these questions in mind can set workers on the right path from the get-go.

( FlexJobs announced 7 Growing Careers for Fully Remote Jobs just this week. It’s an excellent resource for anyone searching for a remote job.)

9. Target Specific Companies
It’s important to target companies that will be a good cultural fit. Using LinkedIn can be a valuable way to seek out compatible companies. Find a company you admire and would like to work for on LinkedIn, then look for the “Similar pages” section on the right side of the page to find related companies. This could help uncover businesses in a given industry that could be a good fit. Then, create a list of companies and check their job postings often, reaching out to any you’re particularly aligned with and “cold emailing” them about employment opportunities.

10. Follow Up with Employers
Some job seekers shy away from following up on a job application. Maybe they don’t want to “bother” the employer, or they assume they’re out of the running. However, checking in is expected, and it could put your resume in front of the hiring manager. After applying for a job, make it a point to follow up with the employer or hiring manager. Reach out after a week or two to ensure that applications were submitted successfully, and see if the employer has any questions. This is also a great opportunity for applicants to reiterate how great a match they’d be for the job and company, from appreciating its culture to feeling that they can be a true asset to the organization.

11. Practice Interviewing Skills
Good friends and networking contacts can be invaluable in helping job seekers hone their interviewing skills. This is especially important when they have a conversation scheduled. But even when beginning a job search, it doesn’t hurt to practice what to say in different situations by participating in a mock interview.

12. Prioritize Mental and Physical Health
Job searching can take a toll, and it can be easy to feel down or stressed, leading to poor mental and physical health. Prioritize and focus on your health while job searching in the new year by setting aside time to participate in uplifting activities like getting outdoors––even for a quick walk-–using a meditation app to get in a mindful state, and eating healthy.

Thanks for reading!

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Thinking of a Second Act? 5 Ways to Ease into Your Dream Career

2022-12-17T14:50:00.010-08:00

Photo by Austin Chan on Unsplash

Earlier this year when I was looking for new avenues to talk about writing and promote The Perfect Neighborhood, I joined PodMatch, a platform that connects podcast hosts and guests.

Since signing up, I've been fortunate to have lots of fun conversations with people across the US and the UK. But one of my absolute favorite chats was hosted by fellow New Jersey native, Shannon Russell, career coach and founder of Second Act Success.

A former executive producer who's worked for CBS and MTV, Shannon knows first-hand what it's like to pivot to a new career and bravely take on the challenges that enable you to "produce your best life" (Shannon's mantra).

Shannon went from living in Los Angeles and working in TV to moving back to NJ to be closer to family and start a Snapology franchise, which she grew to one of the top franchises in the country. Empowered by entrepreneurship, the mom of two launched Second Act Success to help women shift to more fulfilling careers and embrace their "second acts" and ultimately achieve greater balance and satisfaction.

I love listening to Shannon's podcast because it's like eavesdropping on really interesting friends who are bold enough to pursue their dreams. Shannon's enthusiasm is infectious but she doesn't sugarcoat all it takes to turn those dreams into realities. She digs deep with her guests, who generously share the behind-the-scenes stories of how they boldly forged new paths for themselves.

Given the abundance of recent layoffs across industries and the new year looming, it felt like the perfect time to ask Shannon to offer her top strategies for cultivating a career you'll love.

Here are her top five tips for easing into your dream career:

1. Research, plan, and leap – I love the idea of “learn and leap,” meaning take the time to really think about what you want to do for a second act. Switching careers is not a simple step, so be sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. Make a list of potential ideas and truly vet them. Learn as much as you can about this new venture through online articles, researching companies, and of course GOOGLE. Make sure you have all the information you can, so that you are making the most informed decision possible, before you leap into this new adventure!

2. Talk to the people who know – Who is better to tell you just how incredible or how awful a role is, than someone who sits in that position every day? Informational interviews are a great way to gather more intel on your dream career from an insider. If you know someone who works in the career you are considering, then this step is easy. Simply ask that friend for his or her true take on the role. If it is a close friend, you may be able to really dig deep, asking everything you want to know about salary, benefits, and the nitty gritty details (good or bad.) If you do not know someone directly, either ask for an introduction from a friend, or feel free to find a person on a company’s website or through your LinkedIn network, and send this person a note asking for a few minutes of his or her time. This informational interview is to learn more about what they do day in and day out. You are not asking for a job; you are not asking for an introduction to the hiring manager; you are only asking for advice. It may surprise you how many people are happy to help.

3. Network and spread the word – Bringing an idea to fruition is sometimes scary, but you can ease into your career change by vocalizing it. It’s like manifesting something into your life, but this time you are not only visualizing what you want, but you are going to tell others about it as well. Begin by making a conscious effort to start telling family and friends that you are going to move into a new direction with your career. Verbalizing this dream makes it feel more real and it can be very empowering. So tell those closest to you, and then slowly start telling others too. When you are making small talk with a woman in the Target checkout line and she asks how your day is, you can say, “It’s great! I’m working on starting a new business and today has been very productive.” If you’re at a party or at an event at your child’s school, and an acquaintance asks you what you have been up to, you can say, “Things are hectic, but good. I’m actually in the process of changing jobs and I have been networking a lot lately.” These small conversations, may lead to someone offering to introduce you to someone they know who can help you. You never know what events will unfold until you start telling the universe you are ready for this change. Just beware of any naysayers who may try and talk you out of this change. Stand strong with your goal. Only you can decide what is truly right for you.

4. Set small goals – Once you make a decision on the path you would like to take, then you can start setting small goals for yourself on how to take action. Start by making a list of all of the things you will need to accomplish to actually make this dream career come to life. Start looking at the months ahead and set mini-milestones. If you decide that you want to quit your current job and transition to your new role in six months, then mark that date on your calendar. Now you can work backwards adding smaller goals or milestones to get you there. Start with something small like giving yourself one month to update your resume, polish your LinkedIn profile, or compile a list of contacts in your new field. If you will need to build out a new website, maybe you give yourself two months for that project. If you will need a new certification or training that will take longer, than factor that into your timeline. Keep this calendar visible and give yourself something to work on each week or each month to keep up your momentum.

5. Know your why – I always tell my career-coaching clients to focus on the “why.” If you are dreaming about a new career, then spend some time asking yourself why? We all dream about quitting our job after a difficult day, but we do not want to quit and start something new just to find out the new role is not a perfect fit either. It is not always greener on the other side, or in that other field you are thinking about. So do your research on the outside, and on the inside. Will this new role fill you up? Will the hours fit with your lifestyle? Will the salary and benefits work for your family? Is there room for growth in this new role? Will you be excited to wake up every morning and start your day? Are you running away from something? Or are you running towards something greater? Be honest with yourself during this self-assessment, and be truthful with why you want to make this career change and how it will better your life. If all signs lead to yes, then you are on your way!

Love Shannon's advice? I do too! If you're interested in learning more, getting personal coaching from Shannon, or enrolling in her Second Act Accelerator course (new session starting in January!), visit her website. If you're not ready to make the "leap" just yet, check out Shannon's podcast to listen in on inspiring conversations.

Sometimes just pondering the possibilities can provide a bit of hope.

As always, thanks for reading!

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10 Ways to Build Career Resilience in a Recession

2022-11-17T09:19:00.001-08:00

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

With the end of the year looming, I find it's a good time to look back at where I've been and also ahead at where I'm going—or should go. (If anyone has the answer to this, please leave it in the comments! Thank you.)

As I may have mentioned (probably a dozen times, but who's counting?) I've been staring down a lot of waiting lately. And not that I didn't know that this was part of the writing life, but that hasn't made it any less uncomfortable.

To keep busy, I've been pitching articles and doing some freelance work. I started a new manuscript and I've taken about four million pictures of my cats.

(One thing you can tell from this photo, I haven't spent much time straightening up my house.)

In a moment of desperation, after speculating that all the things I'd put out there would result in a series of "No..." "No, thank you!" and "Definitely not!"s, I applied for a full-time job. It was a partially-remote writing position at a startup based in NYC.

I submitted my resumé on a whim, thinking that if I got it, I'd take it as a sign from the universe to quit fiddling around with fictional characters and cat photography and get back to work.

Side note: I should mention that my husband started a new job in September and things have gotten off to a less-than-stellar start. Weekly layoffs dominated the first month and employees have been told to brace for more this month and next. Happy holidays!

Of course, precarious work situations are the norm now. Every day we read or hear about thousands of employees who've been dismissed with little to no warning. Things on the hiring side aren't great either—I applied for one position and received an email that an onboarding freeze had been implemented, but they'd hold on to my resumé. (Not too encouraging.)

Even worse, a reader who reached out to me several months ago after she was let go received an offer for what she hoped would be her dream job only to be told the company could no longer "fund the position." Needless to say, she's reeling. Things are bleak on both ends.

Back to my potential job at the startup: I had a video interview on Halloween and I thought it went well. (I even did some light dusting and removed my martini glasses from the background, so you know I was really trying.)

After the call ended, I sent a thank you email and links to work samples as requested. But then I got a little nervous. Did I really want to trek to midtown Manhattan several times a week if I got this job? With two teens at home and my husband now back in an office, it's been nice to have the luxury of working from home. Even if I loved the work, could I stand NJ Transit again? I haven't missed the chronic delays, those loud, one-sided cell phone conversations, or sitting beside someone shoveling down a fajita at 7 a.m.

Well, reader, I didn't need to worry too long because by the end of the week, I was told they wouldn't be "advancing my candidacy"—a phrase that made me laugh as it was so close to election season. Reading that rejection email filled me with relief. I didn't want to commute nor am I totally ready to give up on the projects I've pitched. So now at least I know that—and sometimes knowing what you don't want is just as important as knowing what you do.

For the moment, I'd rather remain in my unsettling holding pattern than make a wrong move.

I know I'm not the only one who's weighing her options at this tumultuous time. I received an email this week from Flex Jobs, noting that, according to a recent survey, 39 percent of US workers are worried about their job security and 73 percent are concerned about a recession impacting their career.

With that, the FlexJobs’ Career Coaching team offered 10 ways remote and hybrid workers can practice career resilience during a recession. I thought I'd share it here as I've previously included several similar tips when I've given presentations on not getting discouraged while job hunting. I hope you find them helpful!

1. Think Like an Entrepreneur

Professionals are responsible for charting their path and building their personal brand, so leading with an entrepreneurial mindset means knowing that a career is yours alone to manage. Instead of relying on a company or employer for personal and professional success, managing one’s career path like a business gives the power to the individual to set and achieve the goals they set out for themselves.

2. Focus Your Job Search

As hiring still happens in down times, job seekers should identify and narrow their search to companies that are actively recruiting for new employees.

FlexJobs also recommends job seekers identify remote opportunities at companies with a history of hiring for remote-friendly jobs by consulting lists such as:

3. Put Your Financial House in Order

Even though the average person can save up to $6,000 working at home half the time, inflation concerns and recession fears are still fueling a heightened level of concern for many flexible workers, especially around managing day-to-day finances. Alleviate some of this uncertainty by better monitoring daily expenses and getting all household finances in order. Review budgets with a fine-tooth comb, find ways to reduce spending, and focus on increasing "rainy day" savings. Additionally, take time to assess both current financial wellness and long-term financial goals, including retirement savings, protecting investments, and estate planning.

4. Highlight Achievements

Having a list of accomplishments helps any candidate build confidence, better recognize their strengths, and highlight their greatest attributes for job searching––all incredibly important when navigating an unstable hiring market. If unsure which accolades to include, ask current and former supervisors, bosses, colleagues, and clients to write a recommendation on LinkedIn. In addition to helping professionals identify their skills, these recommendations are particularly helpful for remote workers because it’s like having reference letters out there for everyone to see online before they even ask. Just be sure to let recommenders know the skills and qualities you'd like them to focus on. If it feels uncomfortable asking, start the process by writing a recommendation for someone else first.

5. Get Social

Social networking sites can be great for helping remote workers find job opportunities and make connections at a distance. But creating a profile is not enough. Especially during a recession, it’s important remote professionals actively manage and update all professional digital profiles on sites like LinkedIn with the latest skills, experience, and education. Creating a dynamic profile can tell a candidate’s professional story and help position them as an expert in their area. This includes highlighting the right keywords that make profiles more searchable by hiring teams, showcasing skills that are highly relevant to a given career industry, and organizing everything to present skills in an impactful way.

6. Seek Out Side Hustles

Side gigs can help workers insulate themselves from financial instability. They can help build up savings in the present to lean on should hard financial times happen down the road. If a worker loses their full-time job during a recession, side jobs can help keep them afloat until the economy turns around. Plus if history is any indicator, there's a good possibility that remote freelance jobs will increase as seen in past recessions. When economic conditions become uncertain, companies often turn to freelancers when it's not possible for them to take on a full-time or part-time employee. Non-traditional types of work like freelancing and multiple part-time or side gigs don’t have to be a permanent choice, but they are an excellent support line in uncertain times.

7. Make Mental Health a Priority

Beyond financial hardships, recession-related fears of failure and anxiety about the unexpected can take a toll on workers’ mental health. But as highlighted in this Mayo Clinic breakdown, “resilience means being able to adapt to life's misfortunes and setbacks.” Workers who take care of themselves and practice acts that put their mental health first, such as developing work-life boundaries when working from home and engaging in personal activities outside of work, are better able to cope with immediate challenges, build grit, and weather any issues that may arise during difficult times.

8. Stay Strong & Network On

Effective networking is more than gathering up contact information for later use. In addition to knowing where to network, professionals need to know how to ask people to join their network, maintain industry connections, and feel confident when networking. In the event of an economic downturn, candidates should prepare by staying active within their current network and by actively expanding it. While in-person networking is beneficial, remote professionals can utilize the "My Network" tab on LinkedIn, which is highly valuable for connecting with past peers, colleagues, and mentors.

9. Give Back

Helping others can alleviate professionals from focusing or dwelling too much on personal circumstances. Additionally, volunteering can help professionals gain experience that many employers want. For example, nonprofits frequently need help with accounting, marketing, event planning, and much more. It provides workers the chance to try out newly developed skills in a professional setting and can be a great way to test out a job before making a permanent career change. Sites like VolunteerMatch and Idealist.org are great places to get started and look for opportunities.

10. Expand Your Knowledge

Committing to lifelong learning allows professionals to take charge of career development and increases their resiliency and self-confidence. Seek out professional development courses, training, and webinars related to any in-demand skills or any that are of interest. Fortunately, many basic courses can easily be found online for free. If employed, consider looking for opportunities or take on more responsibility within current roles to hone new and existing professional skills.

As always, thanks for reading!

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Don't Be Afraid to Embarrass Yourself

2022-10-25T07:12:00.005-07:00

Photo by Jane Almon on Unsplash

We always read and hear about the benefits of networking. I know I've recommended it as it's how my husband has found new jobs and I've secured freelance gigs.

But, if I'm being honest, reaching out to someone you barely know can feel pretty awkward. Even if you're not looking for an immediate or large-scale favor, there's still—at least for me—an inherent sense of dread as I wonder, "Is the person receiving my email rolling their eyes and muttering, 'Who the f— is this and what do they want?'"

Everyone's time is valuable. Even if you choose to spend half a day scrolling through Twitter, it's still your time, and while it's nice to help others, no one's obliged to do so.

Once you get past the initial embarrassment associated with sending that text or email, you’re forced to wait and wonder if the response will be a cold, “Nope, can't do it!" (most likely stated in today's corporate jargon, i.e. "Sorry, I don't have the bandwidth ...") Sometimes you don't hear back at all. Either way, it can make you want to crawl beneath your couch, wishing you'd never put yourself out there.

But take heart, there are occasions when it can turn out better than you'd ever expect.

Here's a story in which I reached out—despite running the risk of looking like a giant weirdo—and it had a great outcome.

Here we go:

A few years ago, as I was revising The Perfect Neighborhood, I hired Amy Tipton, former literary agent and founder of Feral Girl Books, to give the manuscript a good edit. I wanted feedback from someone with publishing experience—someone who wasn't a friend or family member who'd feel obliged to say nice things lest our relationship implode.

Amy was incredibly helpful and I can't recommend her highly enough. Over time, she's become so much more than an editor. I now think of her as a friend and my West Coast-based cheerleader. She sends emails recommending books, TV shows, and writing opportunities. One morning about a year ago, I awoke to a message she'd forwarded. An editor with Blackstone Publishing was seeking short stories for an anthology.

"I don't know if you have anything, but I thought of you," she wrote.

As always, I appreciated it, but I didn't have a short story that fit the bill. Just as I was about to reply thanking her, I did a double-take. The editor’s name on the forwarded email looked familiar. But because it was early and I was only a few sips of coffee into the morning, I couldn't place it. I googled his name and within moments realized we'd gone to the same college. Then I saw a photo of him and a memory came rushing back. I could picture this guy at the front of a classroom (maybe wearing a tan raincoat-maybe not?) delivering a well-written speech with the passion of a young Al Pacino.

We'd been in the same public speaking course—a prerequisite to graduate. While most of us were phoning it in, mumbling our way through a dull three to five minutes about how we missed our pets back home or the horror of cafeteria food with as much enthusiasm as hungover nineteen-year-olds can muster, this guy consistently gave stellar talks. Performances, really.

In the one that stayed with me over the past thirty years, he included lyrics from Sting's "All This Time” — that whole "Men go crazy in congregations/They only get better one by one," business. (Sting, please don't sue me for copyright infringement.)

I looked at my classmates, slumped in their seats waiting for that fifty-minute period to wrap up, and wondered: Were they not seeing what I was: a one-man theatrical production? I remember thinking, "Damn, this guy is talented. I bet he'll go somewhere."

Reader, he did. He's written novels, worked for some of the largest publishing houses in the world, and agented deals that saw bestselling novels turned into films.

And there he was—in my inbox.

Would he remember me? Of course not! Unless my sad demo about how to make brownies (from a boxed mix no less!) left an impression, the answer was definitely no.

But that morning as I stared at his name and credentials, I knew this was an opportunity that seemed too good to pass up. I mean, what were the odds?

I didn't need a favor, but I did want to say, "What a small world!" and "What a cool career you've had!"

"Do I tell him I remember his speech after 'all this time?'" I asked my husband, "Or does that make me seem like a crazy lady?"

"If you want to make an impression, include it," he said. (Note he didn't say "good" or "bad" impression...)

I mulled it and then I thought if I'd written anything that someone remembered thirty years later, I'd want to know. So I sent the email. Much to my surprise, he wrote back that day, and if he was thinking, "Good God, what a freak!" he never mentioned it. We set up a call for later that week.

"Tell me what you've been up to," he said. When I finished babbling, he generously asked, "How can I help you?"

Wow. Who doesn't love to hear those words?

He told me his company was always on the lookout for new material for audiobooks, so I sent him my young adult novel He'll Be Waiting. Long story short, Blackstone bought the audio rights, which I'd retained, and that audiobook will be released today. (If you'd consider asking your library to offer it, I'd be incredibly grateful!)

We’ve partnered on another project and, fingers crossed, I'll have some good news to share one of these days.

A few weeks ago, I had coffee with a writer who has incredible connections but is reluctant to use them. I shared the story above as I hoped it might encourage her to reach out. I hope it encourages you too.

It's not always easy and there's no guarantee it'll pay off, but at the end of the day, I'd rather try than wonder, wouldn't you?

If you'd like to stay up-to-date on my publishing news/events, I've buckled and set up a Substack newsletter. Are you thinking, "Geez, Liz, this blog already reads like a ransom note with a dozen different fonts in fifty shades of black!" I know, I know. But I'm giving it a whirl, so why not come along for the ride?

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Going Places & Standing Still

2022-10-17T09:37:00.008-07:00

Photo credit: C'est moi

"What else are we going through this for, if not to have the work take us places?" — Manny Igrejas, playwright and publicist extraordinaire

After spending the past two years hunched over my laptop or sitting on my couch watching nearly everything Netflix has to offer, I did a little (okay, a lot) of traveling this past month, and it was fantastic.

In early September, I went to London to meet the team at Legend Press, which acquired the UK rights to The Perfect Neighborhood. It was a last-minute trip. One midsummer morning, the publisher's marketing manager sent me an invitation to a garden party celebrating the authors who'd released a book this year. She said she knew it was a long-shot given that I was in the US, but she didn't want me to feel excluded.

Before I'd even finished reading her email, I was searching for flights. Yes, it seemed self-indulgent to cross the pond for a party and a handful of signing events (two of which were canceled due to Waterstones' computer-related issues) but I thought, "What if this is it? What if I never publish a book (in the US or UK) again and I miss my chance to enjoy it?"

My mom subscribes to the theory that it's not the things in life we do that we regret, but rather the things we don't do. So I embraced that philosophy and went. And, reader, it was magical. My bookworm heart swelled exponentially talking with writers, editors, and reviewers.

With authors Stela Brinzeanu & Emma Musty

With author Jemma Wayne (far right) and our editor Cari, (middle) at Ink84Books

I did a ton of touristy things, too, and returned with new friends, new books, and a newfound confidence that I could navigate a foreign city solo without getting horrifically lost or pickpocketed.

About eight days later, I traveled to Collioure, France for the Karbohemia writing retreat, which I'd booked back in the spring as a belated 50th birthday gift to myself. (Who knows what you really want for your birthday better than you do, am I right?)

The setting was spectacular. In addition to a castle and the Mediterranean, I was surrounded by talented writers and their gorgeous words. Authors Karen Karbo and Michele Filgate (with special guest Nashville-based spoken word artist and singer/songwriter Minton Sparks) led the weeklong workshop. I went in with high expectations and they were surpassed.

Before arriving, attendees had the opportunity to send twelve pages that we'd discuss in one-on-one meetings with Karen and Michele. While I was in London, I wrote (and edited and scowled and rewrote) an essay that I hope could be the beginning of a new, non-fiction project.

I shared that piece and Karen and Michele offered insightful feedback that was encouraging but also made me think about what was missing and where I can go next with this idea.

One of my dear writer friends told me her grandmother had a saying: "You can never see your own hunchback." This friend and I rely on one another to point out the other's "hunchback."

When it comes to writing, there are often blind spots in your work and having someone there to help you see them (preferably before you've written yourself off a cliff) can make all the difference.

All this to say, I'm extremely grateful for these opportunities to see new things both in the world and on the page.

Now I'm back and trying not to shout, "Where's my charcuterie board and rosé??!!" when it hits 6 p.m. and I come to the sad realization that I'm the one responsible for serving up a meal. Instead of reading and listening to fabulous essays, I'm sifting through school emails and getting back to the freelance hustle. As each day passes, my travels feel more like something I imagined.

While I was away, I received a lovely email from my dear friend Manny (quoted above). I'd mentioned that I was in Europe and felt a bit guilty about leaving my family behind to focus on myself and my next projects. He wrote back, "What else are we going through this for, if not to have the work take us places?"

It was one of those moments when someone says the thing you need to hear at the perfect time.

The work can provide a sweet escape (when you aren't wracking your brain for punchier verbs or a fresh way to open a chapter—or equally hard, end one.) I wrote a lot during the pandemic and having the chance to slip into a fictional world was a lovely diversion. So I'd say the work can absolutely take you places without ever leaving your home, but it's that much sweeter when it brings you to another country where you meet new people and hear their stories and share your own.

As I've said dozens of times, so much of the writing life is a solitary endeavor. It's you and your laptop (maybe a cat and a cup of coffee if you're lucky).

Another part I don't talk about as often is the waiting. In July, I turned in a new manuscript to my publishers, who contractually get a "first look," and I've been waiting to hear back. I joke that as a thriller writer, the suspense is killing me.

I had lunch with a friend last week. He's ghostwritten a memoir in essays for an American artist who has one fascinating tale after another. My friend is in the process of looking for an agent. He's sent out query letters but hasn't heard back. We commiserated about "the waiting."

I told him that when I first thought about writing a book, I imagined the hard part would be the actual writing—creating characters people cared about, setting up scenes, adding enough tension to keep readers from returning the book to the library unfinished.

It sounds incredibly naive, but it never occurred to me that the post-writing part would be just as difficult. The waiting (not to mention the rejection) can mess with your mind. And how do you pass the time while you wait? You can check your inbox every three minutes. You can doubt every compliment you've ever received and wonder if your mom is secretly paying people to be nice to you. You can debate looking for full-time openings at the nearby Taco Bell where you can drown your sorrows in discount chalupas. Or, you can get to work on your next idea and try to block out everything else.

Even better? If you can break up those in-between moments with new adventures, new friends, new stories, you'll remember why you're doing it in the first place.

Here's a poem I believe sums it up far more eloquently. It's been attributed to both Chilean poet Pablo Neruda and Brazilian writer Martha Medeiros. I can't say with certainty who authored it, but I hope it speaks to you.

"Muere lentamente" (Dying Slowly)

You start dying slowly
if you do not travel,
if you do not read,
If you do not listen to the sounds of life,
If you do not appreciate yourself.
You start dying slowly
When you kill your self-esteem;
When you do not let others help you.
You start dying slowly
If you become a slave of your habits,
Walking everyday on the same paths…
If you do not change your routine,
If you do not wear different colours
Or you do not speak to those you don’t know.
You start dying slowly
If you avoid to feel passion
And their turbulent emotions;
Those which make your eyes glisten
And your heart beat fast.
You start dying slowly
If you do not change your life when you are not satisfied with your job, or with your love,
If you do not risk what is safe for the uncertain,
If you do not go after a dream,
If you do not allow yourself,
At least once in your lifetime,
To run away from sensible advice…

As always, thanks for reading.

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The Ups & Downs of the Writerly Life

2022-08-14T16:50:00.008-07:00

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Hope everyone is well and has had a good summer. I'd say "great," but if you've found this blog, chances are you're at a career crossroads and I know how unsettling that can be. If that's your situation, I'm both glad and sorry you're here.

Speaking of forks in the career road, I've recently been comparing my lifelong dream of becoming an author with the reality of it and wondering if maybe it isn't time to retire my laptop and apply for a gig at a garden center where I could water shrubs, daydream about these chocolate sea salt caramels, and preserve what's left of my peace of mind.

How did I arrive here? Writing can be a lonely endeavor, and much like any other profession, it's hard not to compare yourself to your peers, especially ones who seem to be enjoying loads more success. (In my case, it's those authors whose novels make every "must-read" list and are quickly optioned by Hulu.)

It doesn't help that plenty of well-meaning (I hope?) people have asked me, "How's it going?" with their mouths turned downward like sad mimes. "Is your book selling?" They frown as if I'm foolishly attempting the impossible. (Picture the face you'd make if I'd just shared plans to summit Mt. Everest in pajamas with only a can of Pringles for sustenance.)

I tell myself they're just curious or trying to be supportive in their own way. Still, their questions are forcing me to take stock and ask myself, How is this going?

The answer is tricky. While of course, I hope my books are selling, I've never viewed writing as a get-rich-quick scheme, or even a quit-your-day-job scheme. In fact, last summer a colleague asked, "When all is said and done, what would you say your hourly rate was for your memoir?"

"Ballpark?" I'd laughed. "Probably negative eight cents an hour if you consider how I could've spent the time I devoted to writing, revising, researching agents and publishers, and willing my tale to make it beyond the iCloud."

For me, writing has always been about my love of words and putting them in an order that helps me figure out how I feel and what comes next. (I guess you could say I'm doing that right now...)

Don't get me wrong. There have been many wonderful surprises in publishing. So let's start there.

Just the fact that someone who isn't your long-suffering spouse is willing to read your words feels like a miracle. I've received lovely emails, texts, and photos from friends, family, and former colleagues, and each feels like a gift.

Apollo, Artemis, and I couldn’t get enough of this…ahem…hare-raising tale from suburbia by @LizAlterman. Had us captivated until the very last word. For real. pic.twitter.com/lUgTcCwwDz
— Andrew Knott (@aknott21) August 14, 2022

I'm beyond grateful for every single one and enormously thankful for the generosity of so many people—people who bought the book or the audiobook (THANK YOU!), people who posted about it on social media (THANK YOU!), people who requested copies from their library (THANK YOU!). In a world where there are constant competing demands for our time and attention, I'm truly honored and humbled by the outpouring of support.

Spotted at Bethany Beach Books by my neighbor, who fortunately is nothing like the characters in this fictional neighborhood!

I've also had some fun and unique experiences. I appeared on a panel in Bryant Park's Reading Room and had the opportunity to meet and listen to fellow authors share excerpts from their books.

Photo by my dear friend Alison

Making that afternoon even more special, Gail Shalan, the incredibly-talented narrator who voices one of my characters in the audiobook version of The Perfect Neighborhood, came in from Brooklyn. A lovely man who'd read my memoir attended and purchased a copy. And! I (finally) got to meet my dear friend, fellow writer, and marketing maven Alison Y in person after years of exchanging emails. It was a fantastic afternoon and I felt lucky to be there surrounded by so many interesting people.

I've also been a guest on a handful of podcasts and I've loved chatting with the hosts who, by the end of our conversations, feel like old friends.

But there have also been some letdowns and since I've already shared so many career setbacks here, why stop now? Let's begin!

Months ago, I agreed to give a presentation at a nearby library. Rather than offer a reading/signing, the librarian suggested a workshop format. Believing that many readers are also writers, I said I'd be happy to talk about the ins and outs of writing query letters aimed at securing a literary agent. (I'd attended something similar at my local library years ago and found it really helpful and inspiring as did the many others who attended and were eager to learn best practices.)

The librarian loved the idea and I created a slideshow outlining the query process. I made a handout for attendees so they could jot down notes and then flesh out the rest at home. When I called the library to ask how many copies I should bring, the librarian told me two people had registered. TWO! Ouch. I called my mother who frequents that library and planned to attend my presentation.

"You're not one of these registrants, are you?" I asked.

No, she assured me. Okay, so at least there'd be three people, plus the librarian, I hoped. When that evening arrived, it was a balmy 99 degrees in New Jersey—even at 7 p.m. Anticipating a terrible turnout, my mom invited two friends (pity attendees), which was lovely, but none of these sweet ladies intends to write more than a grocery list any time soon, so I felt a bit guilty about dragging them out of their air-conditioned homes for a talk that was as useful to them as a how-to video on bull-riding.

Another woman, who I'm fairly certain wandered in hoping to find a ladies room, stayed, no doubt feeling too sorry for me to leave. I appreciated it, especially because the two people who'd actually registered never showed.

I wanted to crawl under the table like a toddler and pretend none of it was happening, but I went through with my slideshow and fielded questions—mainly from the librarian.

Before I left, she handed me something, "I thought you might want this," she said.

What I wanted was an IPA with an 11% alcohol content, but I didn't tell her that.

"This is our newsletter. It has your event in it." She beamed. "It'll be hitting mailboxes later this week."

I bit my tongue not to ask, "Does it come with a time machine?"

Days later, my mom called to tell me she knew why turnout was so low.

"'Cause no one cares about query letters and I'm an unknown? Oh, and the newsletter advertising it arrives tomorrow?" I was tempted to say, still bitter about wasting everyone's time and gasoline.

"The town was showing a movie in the park that night. I heard there was free popcorn." Her voice was wistful, like she was sorry she'd missed it. "You can't compete with that!"

Apparently not. But it was good practice, I suppose, as I'll be offering this workshop again at a different library in October. Hopefully, I won't be presenting to a cluster of stuffed animals and errant spiders. If anyone needs tips on writing a query letter, ask away, I'm your gal!

I haven't had great luck with bookstores either. Several years ago when I was the editor of an online news site, I went out of my way to support indie bookstores and their owners. I'd ask them for seasonal recommendations and put together round-ups. I'd advertised their events. I'd profiled their businesses.

One of those owners reached out to me in the spring after she'd received an advance copy of my novel. "I'm really enjoying it," she wrote. It made my day as I've read how a bookseller spreading the word can make a real difference in sales.

Weeks later, she wrote again, "My sister and I finished your book and really enjoyed it! Nice job! I'm passing it around to my staff."

Encouraged, I took what shouldn't have felt like a leap of faith but did.

"If you decide to stock copies, I'd be happy to come in and sign them," I offered.

"We'll see," she wrote back.

Ouch again! Unfortunately, that was actually one of the more heartening reactions.

I was in touch with another bookstore owner. When I said I could stop in and sign copies, she wrote back to say she's trying to "reduce the number of signed copies in the store." Huh. I wanted to respond, "I know, right? If there's one thing readers hate, it's a signed copy! It's right up there with a drunken, unreliable narrator!"

Then, I was scheduled to have signings at two locations of a bookstore chain that is now having issues with ordering supply—so those have been canceled.

But these problems are nothing compared to what happened last Sunday when I was supposed to have a signing at a South Jersey book cooperative.

Long story short, I joined the co-op earlier this year as they claimed to support NJ-based authors. (As a member, you're invited to special events, sales, and they say they will host a signing/reading for you when your book is released.) With my book out in July, I thought a signing in a beach town would be ideal.

After exchanging emails with the events coordinator, we settled on Aug. 7 for a signing as he said that would give him enough time to order copies and have them in stock.

When I showed up Sunday afternoon, the downtown was bustling. There was a buzz in the air as it was a gorgeous, cloudless summer day. Even my usually-unimpressed 17-year-old suggested I pose beside the sandwich board that bore my name. I was excited... until I stepped inside and the manager, staring at my empty arms, asked, "Did you bring books with you?"

I stood there confused wanting to say, "No, 'cause we're in a bookstore. (Duh!) And also no because I was told you were ordering them!"

Due to what they're calling a "miscommunication," there wasn't a single copy of either of my books in stock. I'd have happily brought some with me if I thought I had to, like I would if I were signing books at say a Waffle House or a Jiffy Lube.

But when you're signing at a bookstore, one that tells you they're ordering your book and supporting local authors, you don't expect to have to bring your own supplies.

As I stared at a table buckling under the weight of dozens of copies of Elin Hilderbrand's The Hotel Nantucket, (nothing against Elin but last time I checked she wasn't a local author) I wondered if maybe writing wasn't actually the easy part in this business.

My family and I attempted to salvage the day by heading to the beach where we promptly got a parking ticket while looking for the parking meter station. Some days are just like that.

I wonder if these are rites of passage. How many times have I read tweets from authors who shared that they'd driven one hundred miles to an event only to read to the bookstore owner and her cat.

Years ago, I stumbled upon this eye-opening, brutally-honest essay, Who Will Buy Your Book? by Tom McAllister in The Millions, and it may be time for a re-read.

As I wonder: Do I forge ahead or find a new passion? I remind myself of advice I recently gave to someone else: Look at where you are versus where you used to be and be grateful for all you've accomplished.

I need to focus on the fact that years ago I'd have given my lucky writing bathrobe to have had a failed book signing because it would've meant that somewhere out there was an actual book I'd written. And that would've been enough.

Whatever path my career takes, I'm grateful for the journey and the lessons learned, and most of all for friends, family, and readers who've come along for the ride.

Be well and, as always, thanks for reading!

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Life After Layoff

2022-06-11T18:05:00.002-07:00

Matt Duncan
@foxxmd at Unsplash

“I write entirely to find out what I'm thinking, what I'm looking at, what I see and what it means. What I want and what I fear.”― Joan Didion

When I started this blog in 2014, after my husband and I had lost our jobs, I thought of it as an online diary—a place to exorcise those dark thoughts—What happened? How did we end up here? When will it end?—that looped through my mind.

Writing it all down was therapeutic. (If you're struggling with something, I highly recommend putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. Even if you never share it with another soul or ball it up and toss it to your cat, it may help.)

Another reason I began chronicling our mutual unemployment and the arduous task of finding new jobs was because, despite all the career advice that existed, I couldn't find anything that addressed the "Holy sh!t!"-ness of our situation.

There were plenty of resume, cover letter, and interview tips out there, but I wanted to hear from someone who'd lived it, someone who could say, "Yes, I'm wide awake at 2 a.m. licking Dorito dust off my fingertips and wondering how it all went south."

So I wrote the thing I wanted to read (hat tip to Toni Morrison). Of course, when I started this eight years ago, I couldn't imagine that I'd be laid off twice more. (Though, let's be real, it has given me oodles of material!)

Yet sometimes I look back and think, Is this too much? Am I oversharing?

If you're shaking your head and saying, "That horse left the barn a long time ago, Liz! You wrote a whole damn memoir about this, remember?" I'd say, "Point taken. But still...."

Then, a few weeks ago, I received a message from someone who'd lost their job suddenly, and as is often the case these days, it happened in a swift and undignified fashion that left them with zero closure.

They were distraught, reeling, filled with anxiety and self-doubt. They reached out because they'd read a few of my pieces and wanted to commiserate. They asked how to make peace with what happened and move forward.

I knew that no matter how much empathy I wanted my words to convey, they wouldn't be enough. Still, I told them the first days are often the hardest, when the wound is still fresh. I encouraged them to seek immediate help if they were considering self-harm. I reminded them that they are so much more than whoever their former job title suggested they were. I told them I'd help any way I could, to stay in touch, to keep the faith that better days lay ahead.

They thanked me and said it was nice to "talk" to someone who understood. Two weeks later, I reached out to ask how things were going. I received a quick response. They'd just returned from a job interview for a dream position. It had gone so well, they'd been asked to lunch with the company president. They said they'd begun to view the job loss not as an ending but a fresh start. I was thrilled to read it.

I felt the same way after my most recent layoff. (Perhaps the third time really is the charm?)

Since losing my job in February, I've taken some time to regroup. How have I spent it? I've been finishing up a new manuscript (with mixed results). I've been helping my mom clean out my childhood home as she prepares to sell it. (If you need extra buttons or Cheerios coupons that never expire, hit me up. My mom's got hundreds of each I've learned.) I've been attempting (again with mixed results) to promote my domestic suspense novel, The Perfect Neighborhood, which comes out July 12. I'd be thrilled if you considered pre-ordering it. But books are expensive, and with food and gas prices sprouting up faster than my chin hair, I'd be equally delighted if you asked your library to order a copy. To Alison Y who already did:

What's next for me? I'm not quite sure, and I'm okay with that. I'm taking my own advice, believing better days lay ahead.

As always, thank you for reading and I hope you are well!

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The Irish Goodbye—the Work Version

2022-03-16T09:32:00.002-07:00

Photo by Raj Rana on Unsplash

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I'd like to talk about the Irish Goodbye, a slang term for leaving without saying farewell.

We've probably all experienced it at some point—that moment when you're at a party or a bar and you turn around and say, "Hey, where's so-and-so?" and they're long gone.

Perhaps you've even been the one to do it—and, let's be honest, it can have its merits. On the occasions when you need to catch a train or you're simply overcome by the desire to take off your shoes and sit on your couch in your underpants, fleeing without having to make the rounds can feel like a little gift you give yourself (even if it seems rude and strange to those you left behind).

Instead of the social scene, I'd like to focus on those disorienting work times when you've sent an email and gotten a bounce back that made you scratch your head and ask, "Wait, what happened to Dave in Marketing?"

When a coworker suddenly disappears, you can't help but wonder: Was this their decision or were they terminated?

Back in 2015-2016, my husband, Rich, worked for a PR firm. Every month or so he'd tell me that another colleague left without saying goodbye. Because it was a relatively small place where most people knew each other, it struck him as odd that these officemates hadn't given two weeks' notice or even offered a simple, "Maybe our paths will cross again..." on their way out.

He'd receive a message from HR (back when it was called HR and not one of these ~~bonkers~~ newfangled terms like "the People Advisory Team" or "Human Capital Management") stating that So-and-So is leaving and please wish them well in their next chapter.

The first few times Rich got one of those messages, he'd walked to the desk of the person departing to deliver his good wishes face to face. When he arrived at the cubicle, he'd find it empty. Gone were any traces of that employee. Often even the chair had been taken. All that remained were dust bunnies lingering in the corners where family and pet photos once proudly stood.

Fast forward to April 2016, Rich received an invitation to a meeting. When he sat down in the windowless office, he was told he was no longer needed at the firm and quickly ushered out a side door. While he was getting the bad news, an HR underling had been sweeping the contents of his desk into a box, which was handed to him in a stairwell.

He came home feeling terrible, not just about the layoff but the way he'd been led away like a criminal.

"If you've been stealing ink cartridges to sell on a Facebook marketplace or napping at your desk, you can just tell me," I said after a few hours had passed and the initial shock had not worn off.

"I could see why you'd ask that," he'd said, shaking his head, "but no."

He'd known that the firm had been losing clients and trying to cut costs, but what he hadn't realized was that all those employees who'd suddenly vanished had been terminated in the same manner. Only when he connected with them on LinkedIn after his layoff, did he learn they'd suffered the same humiliating fate. At the time, he regretted not reaching out to them earlier. He'd believed they left for bigger and better jobs and possibly wanted to put that tiny, failing PR firm in their rearview.

My recent layoff got me thinking about the way companies handle reporting a termination to the remaining team members.

After I was let go, I had no idea how my boss relayed the news to my former teammates, but within hours I received a flurry of messages via LinkedIn. Most were some variation of, "OMG, I'm shocked. I hope you are okay," "I just heard! I can't believe you left!" and "I really enjoyed working with you and I'll miss you!"

Initially, I was touched by these thoughtful sentiments, but as I re-read them, I thought, "Wait a minute, am I considered a 'deserter' — someone who abandoned her post without notice or a proper goodbye? What had they been told?"

It irked me. So after "having a think," as my boss had been so fond of saying, I responded, writing, "Thank you so much for reaching out. I really enjoyed working with you, too. While this wasn't my decision, I look forward to whatever comes next and hope we can stay in touch."

Our paths may never cross again, still, I wanted them to know I wasn't the kind of person who bailed on a position and didn't even say goodbye.

I also wanted to let them know I appreciated the courage it took to reach out—something I'd never done despite witnessing countless colleagues dismissed over the years. In the past, I'd thought about contacting those coworkers who were laid off, but the awkwardness of it always held me back. What if the person was devastated as I'd been when I lost my job in 2014? (Not everyone opens their severance agreement as says, "Phew!" the way I did on Feb. 1.)

In those roles where I'd survived rounds of eliminations, I didn't reach out because I had the corporate equivalent of survivor's guilt. You're gone; I'm still here...um... (not that that excuses it).

Sometimes I'd tell myself I'd reach out in a day or two when the dust settled. But then I'd talk myself out of it. I never wanted that person to feel as if I were pitying them or prying for information.

I regret not reaching out now. I allowed the potential for my own minimal discomfort to prevent me from extending a simple, "I wish you the best."

While I don't miss the work, my teammates were lovely people whose kind words meant a lot to me—people who taught me something even after we no longer worked together—people I would've gladly said goodbye to properly if given the chance.

Hello from Your Unemployment Poster Girl

2022-02-18T07:13:00.002-08:00

It's that time again, friends.

Where are all my irony-lovers? Step right up. Have I got a story for you! A few weeks ago, I wrote a piece for The Muse titled I Have Layoff Anxiety. Here’s How I’m Learning to Cope.

The idea for this story came to me in September when my then-manager sent me an instant message asking, "Hey Liz, got a sec to talk?" leaving me with a sweaty-palmed certainty that my relatively-new gig had come to an abrupt end. After being let go twice, the feeling that you could be dismissed at any moment lingers, making you suspect that every impromptu meeting may be your last.

But it turned out he wasn't terminating me. Instead, he said he and I were moving to a new global team. Knowing that restructuring is often the kiss of death, I took a deep breath and bluffed my way through a chorus of "Wow, that sounds exciting!"

As this group formed, one teammate immediately quit because his new position was quite far afield from what he'd been hired to do. My former boss, surmising that this was going to end up like a bad middle school science project, promptly took a leave of absence. (Spoiler alert, he returned two months later, spent an hour in a meeting, and quickly resigned, noting that this new position was one he would "never want nor aspire to"—a sentiment I shared but tried to ignore.)

As I plodded along trying to understand how I could use my skills in this new role, I couldn't help wondering just how long I'd last. With it weighing on me, I thought writing a piece about layoff anxiety and interviewing career coaches and mental health experts could quell that constant sense of unease and possibly help someone else afflicted with the same bad feelings.

After writing the piece, I felt like I was slowly tuning out that voice in the back of my head that screamed, "Get your teeth cleaned now while you still have dental insurance!"

But as weeks slid into months filled with three-hour meetings in which people debated the merits of one adjective versus another and very little was accomplished, I wondered what I was doing there. After years of freelancing, I was spoiled from taking an assignment and completing it without twenty people weighing in on what images they conjure when they hear the word "sustainable."

Side note: Shortly after I started this job, a friend and former colleague also changed careers—switching from regional news to the communications department at a large pharmaceutical company. We texted to compare notes, both of us confused by the number of lengthy, pointless meetings and processes. To illustrate her point, she sent a screenshot of her meeting calendar. "See that virtual baby shower in the middle? That one was the most productive."

To say my new position wasn't a good fit would be an understatement. I wasn't really writing so much as I was cobbling together canned responses and sprinkling in commas. Guidance was murky at best and I spent most days feeling lost and unproductive. When friends would ask how my job was going, I'd often say each day was like walking into a foreign film in the middle and being expected to explain the plot. To put things in perspective, even my cat had stopped attending the daily video calls.

So when I received an invitation to a meeting with my new manager that arrived without an agenda or any other information, I knew my layoff anxiety had been well-founded. I was let go in a mercifully-brief call that came as a relief rather than a shock.

One of the more difficult aspects of this job loss (aside from losing the paycheck and healthcare coverage) was turning in my company iPhone, with its fancy camera that allowed me to capture what I consider the best photo I've ever taken. Behold:

Boots in repose

(Please think of me for all your pet portrait needs.)

When I told friends and family about my latest layoff, most said a variation on "Good! You were miserable there!" and that was true.

A teammate who recently applied ~~to get the hell out of our group~~ for a transfer to another department once described his work week this way, "It's a bit of a ballache." (Put that on your company swag hoodie!) And that really captures it.

For those keeping score at home, my husband and I have racked up three layoffs a piece since 2013. Here's hoping we stay tied and he doesn't best me in the weeks ahead as having one income is always better than none.

While it does, of course, sting to be told your skills are no longer valued, I'd been planning to leave in June to promote the domestic suspense novel I sold last summer and, hopefully, start a new project. So I'm regarding this as a bit of a head-start.

Think you know your neighbors? Think again.

Shameless plug: Pre-orders are a huge help to both booksellers and writers. If you're looking for a twisty summer read, I'd be beyond grateful if you considered ordering a copy.

Or, if you'd like to hear more about our past layoffs, my memoir Sad Sacked is available at Audible.com, which is offering a 3-month free trial (through Feb. 21). So go ahead, give it a listen, and see if you agree with the reviewer who said I "lack comedic timing."

As always, thanks for reading and I wish you the best!

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14 (FREE) Online College Courses That'll Enhance Your Career Skills

2022-01-26T09:49:00.003-08:00

Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash

I'm a sucker for a free online course. In fact, during the past two years, I've signed up for dozens. Just this week, I took author Marion Roach Smith's 5 Ways to Become a More Productive Writer webinar. Last week, I watched marketing and publishing experts talk about ways to engage with readers and market books.

One thing I really love about most of the classes is that if you can't attend in real time, the hosts will send you a replay link. So, often I end up watching while I eat lunch or make dinner. (Yes, I am dividing my chilly winter days by meal times now, as in, "It's 90 minutes 'til my afternoon coffee break.")

When I received an email from Remote.co highlighting 14 free online courses covering key areas like accounting, marketing, analytics, SEO, and more, I thought I'd share the content. (I'm eyeing the Grammar & Punctuation one as a refresher since Grammarly loves to tell me I'm using commas incorrectly.)

If you're looking to expand your skill set, I hope these free courses help!

University of California, Davis

Introduction to Search Engine Optimization – This class is the first of an SEO specialization series and introduces you to search engine optimization. You’ll learn how the Google search engine works and why SEO best practices are always shifting. Students will also learn SEO tips and tricks to help drive more organic search results and avoid Google penalties.

University of Pennsylvania

Introduction to Marketing – Learn about three fundamental marketing principles and how to effectively use them in your marketing strategy. You’ll learn about branding, which helps keep loyal customers loyal; customer centricity, which is not the same as customer service; and go-to-market strategies, which help you understand what influences customers.

Duke University

English Composition 1 – You will learn how to read and write at the college level in this free online college class. This includes understanding the writing process, citing sources, analyzing text, writing effective arguments, and how the writing process works.

Stanford University

Writing in the Sciences – This class is geared toward scientists who want to be more effective writers. Using practical examples and exercises, you’ll learn the principles of good writing, how to write faster, the peer review process, grant writing, and more.

Harvard University

Rhetoric: The Art of Persuasive Writing and Public Speaking – In this introductory course, you’ll learn the theory and practice of rhetoric, also known as persuasive speaking and writing. You’ll learn how to construct and defend compelling arguments and how to recognize when someone is trying to persuade you.

University of California, Berkeley

How to Write an Essay – Over the course of this introductory level online college class, you’ll learn the basics of writing college-level essays. By the end of the course, you’ll know how to write effective sentences and paragraphs, as well as introductions and conclusions.

University of California, Irvine

Grammar and Punctuation – This class is the first of a series of grammar classes and is a refresher course. You’ll learn how to identify the correct verb tense, how to use commas effectively, and many more grammar tips you may have forgotten since high school!

University of Virginia

Managerial Accounting Fundamentals – Learn the fundamentals of managerial accounting and how to use financial information to make decisions. You’ll discover how to describe different types of costs, conduct cost-volume-profit analysis, and understand how to determine what information to use in your decisions and which to discard.

Financial Accounting Fundamentals – This free online college class walks students through the three most commonly used financial statements: balance sheets, income statements, and statement of cash flows. In addition to understanding how to properly fill them in, you’ll learn how the three documents work together and how to analyze the information on them.

Marketing Analytics – Take your marketing to the next level through the use of analytics. This class introduces you to the different types of marketing analytics and how to interpret data. Once you can interpret the data, you’ll be able to make data-driven decisions to drive your marketing plan.

University of Illinois

Auditing 1: Conceptual Foundations of Auditing – This introductory class focuses on the beginning concepts of auditing. You will learn about an auditor’s professional responsibilities and the main parts of the audit process.

West Virginia University

Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination – Students in this free online college class will learn about business fraud—specifically, who commits fraudulent acts, and why and how they do it. But, more importantly, you’ll also learn the techniques to help you catch them.

University of Michigan

Accounting for Decision Making – This class focuses on understanding and interpreting two key financial statements: balance sheets and income statements. You’ll not only learn about the “big picture” of these statements, but also the individual components of each to help guide your overall decision-making process.

Writing and Editing: Word Choice and Word Order – Learn how language can influence people and their decisions. You’ll learn how to take complex information and present it in a reader-friendly way. Students will also learn creative ways to construct sentences, tell compelling stories, and the best way to organize their writing.

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Tips for Landing a New Job in 2022 (& Freelance Opportunities)

2022-01-08T06:35:00.001-08:00

Photo by Eric Prouzet on Unsplash

Happy (belated) new year! I'm usually not one to make resolutions but this year, reader, I must. No matter how tempting, 2022 is the year I refuse to duped by the sweater ads that flood my Instagram feed. You know the ones that make you do a double-take and whisper, "Cashmere for $12.99? Why not?" Or, as my hero Ina Garten likes to say, "How bad can it be?" Answer: Bad. Really, really bad.

Here's a recent ad that caught my eye and then caused me to waste precious time battling the merchant (Karladress—never heard of them? My advice: Keep it that way) and pleading my case to PayPal to get a refund, which I did because:

The ad:

Karladress

The reality:

For many, the new year is the perfect time to rethink your career. With that in mind, Bradford Goodwin, Chief Content Strategist at job board Lensa shared his top tips for job seekers in 2022:

Decide your location: Remote or in the office

“With the pandemic still ongoing, more remote roles are available than ever before. For 2022, many candidates will have to choose their preference; fully remote, office-based, or a hybrid of the two. Introverts may find working fully remotely suits them best. For those who enjoy face-to-face time but not the commute, a hybrid job is the best of both worlds. If you struggle with self-motivation, being in an office environment could be beneficial for you. Of course, these qualities aren’t exhaustive, so you’re best making a list of pros and cons.”

“When job seeking, you’ll need to take into account how the potential employer treats remote workers. Do you have access to all the equipment you need to work productively from home? Are there regular virtual socials and opportunities to chat outside of work? You’ll also want to know how the company measures performance. If some workers are hybrid and others fully remote, you want to ensure everyone has access to the same career advancement opportunities.”

Revamp your resume

“Even in 2022, a well-crafted, customized resume is the best way to stand out. You should always keep it fresh and relevant to the job you’re applying for. Emphasize any technical skills you have that are important for the role, as well as soft skills. You can also supplement your resume with other materials, such as a video or portfolio to showcase your skills.”

Other quick ways to freshen up your resume include:

Cut out the boilerplate - “I am a hard-working individual who wants to work in X industry” - takes up valuable real estate in your resume and says nothing about you.
Unless you’re a recent graduate, move your education below your employment experience.
Go over any acronyms and write out the full title - this will help applicant tracking systems pick it up.
Swap out generic, overused adjectives like “detail-oriented” for more specific language that has your authentic voice.
Make your resume skimmable by breaking it into sections.

Network

“The pandemic has undoubtedly made networking more difficult, but if you’re serious about seeking out new opportunities, it is such a valuable way to spend your time. First, do an audit to identify gaps in your network. Write down who you’re in touch with, and uncover how long it has been since you spoke to them. Make an effort to reach out to 3-5 people and offer support, and you’ll be rewarded.”

“Remember, when networking, no one wants to listen to your life story. So, prepare your elevator pitch - a succinct few words about what you do and the value. But, don’t over-rehearse it. Any networking should always be like a normal conversation!”

“At a networking event or online, focus on quality over quantity. Aim to have five good conversations - you don’t have to ‘work the room’ for it to be successful. Finally, remember that networking is all about relationships, not introductions! Send a Linkedin request and make sure to invest in staying connected after the initial meeting.”

Make your job search more efficient

“A great first step when searching for a new job online is to make a list of all the keywords relevant to your field: skills, certifications and tools. This will save time by filtering out anything that isn’t relevant to you. If there is a specific company that you are really interested in working for, reach out to the hiring manager, or dig into your network to see if you have any connections in common. Finally, know where to search. Whilst some boards have a gazillion job listings, you’ll want to look somewhere where your search can be tailored to suit you.”

Ready to put that advice to the test? I received an email this week from Darlene Liebman, founder of Creative Humans, who asked that I share these opportunities:

A fast growing Bicoastal agency who is looking to staff up an exciting new project with some new long term freelancers. One of their new clients is a new large streaming platform and they need some new smart help with help bringing to market.

The client is a cool agency, with clients such as: Netflix, NBC, Warner Media, Talkspace, Mirror, Sesame Workshop, Viacom.

All the positions start ASAP; Roles are for 6 month (with the possibility of FT)

Location: NYC Based, but remote work is accepted

Freelance Project Managers
Freelance Senior Producers
Freelance Creative Producers
Freelance Senior Copywriters
Freelance Designer / Animators

Any one interested in any of these roles should email a resume to darlene@creativehumans.com.

Wishing you all the best in 2022!

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5 Ways to Stay Motivated During a Long (& Grueling) Job Search

2021-12-09T10:20:00.003-08:00

Photo by Mario Wallner from Pexels

When it comes to things that are exhausting, I put job searching right up there with cleaning out the basement and arguing with toddlers. It can feel like you're trying really, really hard, and still getting absolutely nowhere.

Looking for a new job—especially during the holiday season—may seem particularly unpleasant, and there's a lot of conflicting information about whether it's worth the effort when HR specialists and hiring managers are busy finalizing year-end reports and organizing virtual Secret Santas.

Some say don't bother sending out your resume in December, no one is hiring. Others argue that departments have use-it-or-lose-it money left in annual budgets and quotas to fill, so go for it.

My husband, who was laid off three times within a seven-year period, is no stranger to job hunting. Interestingly, he was offered two of his last three full-time positions (including the one he's currently in) between Thanksgiving and New Year's. So we're firm believers in the notion that there's never a wrong time to look for a new role.

With that said, if you've been at it a while and feel like you're beating your head against a wall, I get it. Staying motivated as rejections roll in, applications go ignored, and recruiters ghost you is never easy. It can make you want to give up entirely.

TopResume’s career expert Amanda Augustine offers five ways to get your "job-seeking mojo" back—whether you’re looking for a new department, a new company, or even a new industry.

1. Set weekly goals

Every aspect of job searching can seem like a full-time job in itself. From creating eye-catching resumes and compelling cover letters to updating your LinkedIn profile and networking with former colleagues (and random strangers your mom sends your way because she met them on a Kohl's checkout line and they seemed "nice"), the whole process may make you want to curl up with a plate of whichever appetizers you find in the recesses of your freezer and contemplate just going off the grid for the next decade or two.

Rather than give up, Augustine recommends creating a plan that breaks down your search into smaller goals you can work toward on a weekly basis.

When you simplify your job-search strategy and focus on completing more manageable tasks, you’re less likely to become overwhelmed by the process, she notes.

2. Shake things up

If you've spent the last few weeks (or months) scrolling through Indeed or LinkedIn, looking at the same postings and watching the number of applicants climb higher than the Dow Jones Industrial Average, you may find yourself muttering, "F*&! this!"

Augustine suggests it may be time to try some new tactics. For example, check out apps like Clubhouse or Upstream or sites like 10times to attend in-person or virtual events and meet new people in your field.

Or, look into skill-based volunteering opportunities with Catchafire to boost your resume, sharpen your skills, and expand your professional network.

3. Join forces

The job hunt can be a lonely, isolating journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Consider partnering with a fellow job seeker who's targeting work in a similar field, Augustine suggests.

Set up weekly check-ins and share resources to keep your job search on track, and each other motivated. By combining your efforts and assets, your search is sure to get the boost it needs, Augustine says.

If nothing else, at least you can commiserate with someone who knows exactly what you're facing.

4. Celebrate small victories

Don’t wait until you’ve signed an offer letter to celebrate your wins. Instead, treat yourself for achieving various milestones throughout your job-search journey, such as optimizing your resume for the applicant tracking systems (ATS ), applying for a certain number of jobs in a given week, or setting up an interview with a valuable contact.

These rewards don’t have to be big or expensive. Augustine says. Consider something as simple as indulging in a decadent dessert, treating yourself to a round of golf, or grabbing a celebratory drink with a good friend.

I'd like to recommend Whole Foods apple fritters—$4.99 for four. (Just try not to consume them all within a 24-hour window like I do.)

5. Embrace positivity

A taxing job search can sometimes lead to negative, self-sabotaging thoughts, notes Augustine.

"Keep the negativity at bay by reminding yourself of your true value with affirmations like 'I’m the same smart and capable professional I was before this job search began' or 'I know everything will work out for me.' Regularly repeating positive affirmations like these can reduce your stress levels and improve your health," Augustine suggests.

This definitely seems more beneficial than listening to that nagging voice I often heard whispering in the back of my head, repeating, "I'm a loser. I'll never work again!"

If you're job hunting, I wish you all the best. If you're interested in hearing more about the grueling odyssey my husband and I embarked upon when we lost our jobs simultaneously, consider giving my memoir Sad Sacked a listen. Thank you to everyone who has already downloaded it and reviewed it! (Except the person who wrote, "Sorry I listened to the end.")

Until next time, happy holidays!

Sad Sacked: A Memoir

2021-11-10T08:07:00.015-08:00

In 2013, I received a phone call that temporarily derailed my life. It was days before Thanksgiving, and prior to this my biggest concerns were things like: "Is brining my bird really worth it?" and "Do I have enough matching wine glasses?"

So when my husband called to tell me he’d been laid off, I was in shock. He’d been with that company for 18 years. What made matters worse was that my job was also in jeopardy. Six weeks later, I was let go too.

In a short span of time, we went from a two-income household to a no-income household with three kids and a mortgage. As weeks bled into months, we sent out resumes but heard nothing. I felt embarrassed whenever I saw friends and family who knew we were both out of work. I was certain people must’ve thought we were either incredibly lazy or there was something seriously wrong with us.

How could I cope?

I started this blog. To be honest, I didn’t really expect anyone to read it, but I felt like it was important to document that strange and surreal period. And rather than make it as sad and depressing as it often felt when we checked our emails only to read: "We’re moving forward with a more qualified candidate…” I tried to use humor to boost my spirits.

If nothing else, I figured this blog could serve as a sort of online diary that chronicled my descent into madness—a souvenir for the kids when I disappeared to go live among a feral cat community.

As I was job hunting, I came across a career advice website, The Muse, and I used some ideas from this blog to pitch the editor. Since I was in the trenches, she allowed me to begin writing for the site, and I was able to link to my blog in my byline. Every so often I received a lovely email or a direct message from someone who was unemployed and struggling as well. It made me feel better and less alone.

While looking for a full-time job, I picked up some freelance work and one assignment was to interview a woman who’d founded a local school for writers at all levels and stages. I asked which was her most popular course and she said memoir writing. I thought, "Huh. Maybe I could turn this blog into a memoir?" So I signed up for a workshop, thinking I was crazy, but also desperately in need of a creative outlet.

So in September 2015, I took my first memoir class and it kept me accountable. I’d paid my money, I needed to write those pages, and getting feedback in real time motivated me to keep going.

Two years later, I finished writing the memoir and began working on my query letter. I took a Writer’s Digest course that included a critique from the agent who taught the course. After I received her notes on my letter, I edited it a bit more until I felt like it was in the best shape possible. Then, I researched agents who’d sold memoirs and began emailing them. Soon the rejections started coming in faster than my chin hair.

Although most agents were pretty kind, they liked to point out that I wasn’t a celebrity, and I was like, “Duh, this is a memoir about unemployment. I’m on the verge of shoplifting toothpaste. I didn’t think I was a Kardashian.”

Others said the market for memoir was tough and they couldn’t sell it because I didn’t have “a large platform” — which is code for: “Don’t contact us again until you’ve delivered a viral TED talk!”

So December 2017 rolled around and I was determined to not give up, so I decided to participate in Pitmad. If you don’t know about Pitmad it’s a Twitter pitch event where writers tweet a 280-character pitch for their completed, polished, unpublished manuscripts. There are hashtags that let you identify your genre and you add #pitmad to the tweet and if an agent “likes” your tweet you can send them your work as per their guidelines. (Just an FYI: The next one is Dec. 2)

An agent liked my Tweet and I sent her my first few chapters. She wrote back days later asking to read the rest of the manuscript. After so much rejection, my first thought was: Is this one of my kids pranking me because they’re sick of hearing about my literary dreams imploding?

But, no, it was a real agent! Long story short—she offered to represent me and I gladly accepted. Now you’d think that would lead to my happily ever after, right? I had visions of sitting across from Oprah, chatting with Terry Gross, maybe taking a call from Reese Witherspoon…but….

What happened next was pure deja vu. More rejections. Only this time it was editors saying, “We don’t know how to break this out! You’re not famous!” and me screaming at the ceiling, “I know I’m not famous, I’m wearing the same underpants I’ve owned since the first Bush administration!”

Ultimately, my agent and I went our separate ways…but every few months, I’d pull out the memoir kind of like the way other people read love letters from old boyfriends, and I’d bemoan the fact that it hadn’t worked out.

Fast forward to 2020, a friend of mine had written a novel and had gotten an agent. She said, “My agent is sending it into Audible Original’s pitch portal but you don't have to have an agent to submit. Maybe you might want to think about that.”

So I got out my memoir, reread it, polished it up for the 4,000th time, and I sent it through the pitch portal...and they bought it.

On Thursday, six years and countless rejections later, my memoir Sad Sacked (based on this blog, thank you again for reading!) will be released—just shy of eight years after I got that phone call that initially sent us into a downward spiral.

If you've ever wondered, "How close did Liz come to losing her mind and her marriage?" then this audiobook is for you!

I'd be lying if I didn't admit I'm terrified and feeling like I might as well be standing on Main Street in Borat's bathing suit.

But I also feel like it's a story I wanted to tell because unemployment takes a tremendous mental, emotional, and sometimes physical toll, and I don't think that's talked about enough.

I'm grateful to the wonderful women in my writing groups who encouraged me to not give up, to my friend who suggested I try Audible, and, most of all, to my husband for generously allowing me to share a tale in which neither of us is at our best.

Do you have an unemployment related story to tell? If you'd like to write a guest post, I'd welcome the chance to share your tale as well.

Thanks for reading!

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10 Tough Questions to Ask Your Interviewer

2021-11-02T08:23:00.003-07:00

Credit: Pixabay: Dean Moriarty

In September, I posted a piece about something I typically dread during the interview process—that painful moment near the end (by which point I've pushed past the boundaries of my deodorant and just want the meeting to wrap up ASAP) when the interviewer asks, "So, what questions do you have for me?"

The one that always tops my list is: "Why didn't I prepare some #$&@! questions???" Followed by "Can we just be done?"

If you've found yourself in the uncomfortable situation, you are not alone. Fortunately, expert career coaches at FlexJobs shared the 10 hardest questions you should ask during an interview and the reasons why you want these answered:

1. Why is this position available?

Why to ask it: The answer from this question can tell you a few helpful things: whether this is a new position (which comes with its own challenges), or whether someone left the position because they were promoted, moved laterally at the company, quit, or were fired. Whatever the answer, you will learn something valuable about the job and team you might join.

2. What makes it a great day and what makes it a challenging day at work?

Why to ask it: Rather than a vague question about what a “typical day” may look like, this subtle, yet hard-hitting question will allow you to get a much clearer picture of the highs and lows of the job.

3. When was the last time you promoted someone within your team, and why?

Why to ask it: This question can provide insight into what the hiring manager considers to be the most important traits, skill sets, and achievements to progress within the company. Plus, it also gives intel on career progression within the organization and how often employees are able to move up through the ranks.

4. What are some of the challenges you expect the person in this position to face?

Why to ask it: Every job will have its challenges, but asking about them specifically can help you learn what they may be ahead of time and whether they're the types of challenges you'd feel comfortable tackling.

5. How is criticism and feedback handled within the team?

Why to ask it: Some managers and teams do a great job of handling feedback and critical discussions in a way that helps everyone grow and evolve, and some just don't. The answer you receive from this question will help you know what to expect and whether it's an environment you'd be well-served in.

6. What is the main reason employees stay at or leave this company?

Why to ask it: Not only will this question provide a better sense of a company’s existing culture, it will also offer insight as to how aware the company is about employee experience and if they take employee feedback, such as exit interviews, to heart.

7. Could you tell me if you have any Employee Resource Groups (ERG) and how they might support your Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DI) work?

Why to ask it: By asking directly about ERG’s, you’ll be able to determine if the company is vested and committed to their DEI strategic plans, and if they’re creating programs and policies to support their employees. This question is also an excellent way to determine if your values align with the company's values and mission statement, and if the company provides opportunities for their employees to grow while being valued as a contributor.

8. What is the company's approach to supporting the work-life balance of employees, and what are some recent initiatives you've put in place related to the pandemic?

Why to ask it: The answers received from this question will help you determine if the company really does support work-life balance and in what ways. Asking about any new things they've done as a result of the pandemic will tell you if the company is responsive to the ever-changing needs of its workforce.

9. How does the company determine salary levels or ranges for remote workers and is it at all different for in-office workers or hybrid workers?

Why to ask it: Companies with remote workers have several different ways they might determine salary levels. Typically, it’s based on either the company's location, the worker's location, or another metric like national average. Knowing how they calculate their pay rates gives you solid information to make informed decisions if/when you're negotiating salary requirements.

10. Do you have any hesitancy in hiring me?

Why to ask it: This offers a chance to immediately address anything they might say, and hopefully help the interview move past whatever is making them hesitant about hiring you for the role. Plus, it can provide solid information for how to improve for future interviews.

You definitely need nerves of steel (and, in my case, more deodorant) for that last one. But, asking it can help you address any issues that may knock you out of the running.

If you have an interview coming up, I wish you the best!

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4 Inspiring Takeaways from Dorie Clark's 'The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World'

2021-10-09T12:05:00.001-07:00

In 2014, networking guru Susan RoAne, author of How to Work a Room, introduced me to Duke University professor and author Dorie Clark, recently named one of the Top 50 business thinkers in the world by Thinkers50.

Both of these powerhouses generously served as sources for me when I wrote for The Muse, and each is full of wisdom and insight that's delightfully straightforward and actionable.

The New York Times describes Dorie as an “expert at self-reinvention and helping others make changes in their lives,” and she's done that for me—referring me for jobs and including me in her fantastic networking dinners. So, when she asked if I'd like to read an advance copy of her new book, The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World, I eagerly said yes.

Unlike many business and career-focused books, once I started it, I found myself inspired (as opposed to overwhelmed). I looked forward to getting back to it (rather than returning it to the library unfinished and hoping my beloved librarians didn't ask if I enjoyed it).

Reading The Long Game feels a bit like having a life coach in your living room, whispering inspiration and reminders that anything worth pursuing isn't going to happen overnight.

Because that's a message that transcends most industries and endeavors, I'd recommend this book to everyone from students to seasoned professionals or really anyone who has a goal or a dream that requires determination, commitment and as Dorie says, "strategic patience."

As she explains in her newsletter, "Playing the long game, at its heart, is about making choices today that you'll be grateful for in the future."

I think of The Long Game as the executive-coaching cousin of Elizabeth Gilbert's more artist-centric Big Magic as both focus on shelving fear and moving forward—even when you can't or don't see any immediate payoff.

As a writer who always hopes to pen a novel that will be turned into a blockbuster film that allows me to retire (so I can stop pretending to understand corporate jargon), I live for stories of people toiling away wondering if they should give up only to achieve great success.

(Side note: I hate that I can't use that phrase without thinking of Borat.)

I'm not someone who regularly highlights section of books—mainly because I can never find a highlighter and when I do it's usually drier than a cat's tongue—but if I did, here are a few of the passages I'd mark to return to:

Hell Yeah! or No.

Even when you're overcommitted, it can be hard to say "no" to an invitation or a favor. But if you want to achieve a goal, you need to guard your time. How do you decide which opportunities to decline?

In The Long Game, Dorie quotes Derek Siver, a music entrepreneur-turned-author, who uses this very simple strategy. When deciding whether or not to do something, if you feel anything less than "Wow! Hell yeah!" then say "no!"

Put down the faulty yardsticks.

In Dorie's chapter titled 'Strategic Patience, ' Ron Carucci, who writes regularly for Harvard Business Review and Forbes, talks about the cliche: "It takes ten years to be an overnight sensation." But... it really does, he says. Don't let that put you off. Three, five, or ten years will pass either way—so why not pursue your dream on the off-chance it works out?

Too often people abandon projects and goals they've set when they don't achieve them fast enough. Another stumbling block on the rock to success is the temptation measure yourself against others by studying likes, shares, page views, and other "vanity metrics." When you focus on these, you forfeit your own agency. So put down these faulty yardsticks, Carucci advises, and focus on how far you've come.

Optimize for interesting.

Our culture prioritizes the pursuit of a lucrative career, but Dorie argues that just because you're not on the established path, that doesn't mean you're going in the wrong direction.

In the book, she offers inspiring examples of people who put their interests ahead of dollars and, ultimately, found themselves on the successful path—and better still, they were fulfilled finding their place at their own pace.

Rethink failure.

One thing I really appreciated about this book is the way Dorie shares her own failures—goals she set that for one reason or another (but never for lack of hustle and hard work) didn't pan out. But...Dorie being Dorie... didn't waste the effort she'd expended.

"Try to adapt plans that didn't work out. Are there alternative ways you can leverage the connections you made, the time you put in, or the work you created?"she posits.

As someone who never likes to see leftovers in the fridge go to waste, I love this. How can your repurpose and reframe those projects that didn't turn out as you'd hoped? Dorie offers up her own examples that you can apply to your own life.

The book is chock full of other solid advice that's stayed with me since I finished. This in particular: "Sometimes our bets pay off, and sometimes they don't. We have to make them anyway."

You can purchase the book here:

US - Amazon, or Barnes & Noble, or independent bookshops

Canada -Amazon.ca or Indigo

UK - Amazon.co.uk or Waterstone's

Germany - Amazon.de

Google Play

Apple (iBooks)

PS: I have no skin in the game. In other words, these aren't affiliate links (mainly because I have no clue how to do that).

Other books by friends I've recently enjoyed include:

The Little Girl in the Window by C.G. Twiles, a psychological thriller that's a super-quick, fun read,

and

Babies Don't Make Small Talk (So Why Should I?): The Introvert's Guide to Surviving Parenthood by Julie Vick, which is a hilarious look at all the awkward situations you're forced to endure—from pregnancy on.

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13 Questions to Ask During Your Pandemic Job Interview

2021-09-01T18:28:00.009-07:00

Landing a job interview can feel like a feat in itself. One of the parts I enjoy least about the process is the old, "So, what questions do you have for ME?" portion that typically comes at the end.

When I was in the thick of interviewing back in 2014 and burned out from in-person meetings that went nowhere, I came up with a few choice questions I wanted to ask. But mainly, I found myself fighting the temptation to say, "Nah, man, I'm good!" — especially when it came to the jobs that didn't really seem like a great fit.

During the past year when I interviewed via Zoom, my top questions shifted toward:

"Can you move your laptop closer to your bookshelves? Is that A Gentleman in Moscow? I want to read that!"

"Where'd your cat go?"

"Are we cool if I start a Slack channel devoted to Real Housewives' discourse?"

and

"How many more hoops will you make me jump through before you tell me you've decided to go with a 'more qualified candidate?'"

But joking aside, when someone asks really smart questions it not only sets them apart from other applicants, it also allows them to gather information that may help them decide if they really want the job.

Recently, a connection reached out about an opening at my company. We chatted by phone and she blew me away with the well-informed questions she'd prepared, and I thought about how if I were hiring for that role, I'd have been impressed.

So, when Marc Cenedella, CEO of the career website Ladders, Inc., shared 13 questions to ask during your pandemic job interview, I knew I wanted to pass them along:

What are the plans for “back to normal?” (You can dig deeper by asking, What will normal look like? How are you thinking about time in-office vs. flex vs. remote for the workforce?)
How has work-from-home impacted your team’s productivity? (Consider adding, During COVID, what’s been the best boost for your team productivity and morale?)
What’s one thing that’s key to this company’s success that somebody from outside the company wouldn’t know?
What’s your (or my future boss’) leadership style?
What are the three things I can contribute in the first 100 days to make you feel great about hiring me?
Which competitor worries you the most? Is it their strategy, execution, market size, or something else?
Why did you decide to hire for this position instead of the many other roles you could have hired for? What about this position made you prioritize it over others?
If I get the job, what does great performance look like? What are the key accomplishments you’d like to see in this role over the next year?
How open is the company with information? What information is shared with the employees (revenues, costs, operating metrics)?
If we are going to have a very successful year in 2022, what will that look like? How does this position help achieve those goals? (This question is a surprisingly easy way to come across as somebody who is always looking ahead.)
How does the company do performance reviews? How do I make the most of the performance review process?
What is the rhythm to the work around here? Is there a time of year that it’s “all hands on deck” and we’re pulling all-nighters, or is it pretty consistent throughout the year?
Is this a new position, or an existing position? If new, why was it created and what are the expectations?
Additional Job Interview Notes:
When asking these questions, it’s vital to make sure you’re engaging in a conversation rather than checking off a list.
Cenedella noted, “As with all interview interactions, you want to come across as inviting a conversation, not as a know-it-all with ‘gotcha’ questions.”
Cenedella suggests an excellent way to make sure a potential employer is a great match for you is to pick the questions in which you’re the most interested and ask every single one of your interviewers the same questions.
“You can even let them know you’re doing this – it shows you’re engaged and prepared,” he said. “Asking the same question across interviewers can be very helpful in sussing out company culture, alignment, and conflict.”
You’ll get excellent insights from considering whether each person provides roughly the same answers or if there are big differences between how two groups or two heads of groups respond.
Noted! If you have an interview coming up, I wish you the best!
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If you've already signed up, thank you, and until next time, be well.

Beginnings & Endings

2021-07-31T12:18:00.003-07:00

I’ve started this blog entry at least three times between late April and today and never quite had the will to finish it. As my husband said when he called to tell me about his first layoff back in 2013, “I have some good news and I have some bad news.”

Good news first: I accepted a full-time job and started on my 50th birthday in mid-April. Because I like to think of this blog as a transparent look at the hiring process, I’ll share a bit about how it all came to be.

I was contacted by a hiring manager at the company via LinkedIn in late February. At the time, I’d grown weary of people who reached out only to disappear as well as those who put me through the wringer with 90-minute interviews that left me wanting to shout, "I've been in long-term relationships with people who know less about me!” Then there was the place that wanted me to write a 4,000-word test article complete with an interactive map of the U.S. (No, thank you!)

So, initially, I was reluctant to respond to this message. My husband had started a new job in December and while it was a step in the right direction, it didn't offer benefits for the entire family, and because it's a relatively new venture, the salary wasn’t what we’d hoped for either. But in the midst of a pandemic it seemed best to accept anything that came his way.

In the months since he started, each time he's drifted down from our shared desk in our attic and sighed, my knees have gone weak as I expected him to tell me this job had come to an end.

With all that in mind, curiosity got the better of me and I responded to the inquiry. Still, I was hesitant to move forward without knowing if this was a paid position or something they'd spin as a "resumé builder" or a quirky "experiment" that paid you in cans of Fancy Feast and locks of the CEO's hair.

In a bold move, I told her I needed to know the salary range so I didn’t waste her time or mine. While she couldn't share that, she said I could tell her what I’d like to make and she’d let me know if that was feasible. Fair enough. I picked what I’ve earned during a peak freelancing year. When she said they could beat that, I was in.

The first step, however, was to take a logic test—say what? She explained that it would be a timed test conducted online while someone from their organization watched me over video. (As I jokingly said to family, "Let's hope the person on the other side of that screen enjoys hearing the 'F' word!")

The test involved looking for patterns in a series and selecting the one that would come next out of an array that, to my untrained eyes, all looked identical. I was still scratching my head at that point because, really, ask me to write a sonnet that incorporates the Beatles, the Berenstain Bears, and Ted Bundy, and I'm your gal. Ask me to choose a subsequent shape in a series of dots inside stars surrounding hexagons and I hyperventilate.

If only the test could've involved Ms. Pac-Man I'd have been far more confident. I got a tabletop version for my kids for Christmas and somehow it's ended up in our dining room (if that doesn’t signal pandemic-related giving up, I don't know what does). For a while, I played almost nightly as a stress-reliever and a way to distract myself from having second helpings of dessert.

Though I wasn't too sure how I'd fare on this test, I said to myself: "What do you have to lose other than 15 minutes and a little more self-respect?"

After the hiring manager sent a practice test, which I failed spectacularly (4 out of 10—woohoo! Feeling logical? Give this practice quiz a whirl at this site), I spent the next day falling down a rabbit hole of YouTube videos designed to help you nail this sucker. Many begin with this pop-up:

Cool! No pressure, right?

Following hours of more practice tests, a voice I'd buried during my high school SAT days came whispering back, "Just click ‘c'!" it urged.

I tried my best and still failed. But! It turned out the test was merely a formality, and I moved on to the next rounds anyway. I'm guessing because my position in corporate communications wouldn’t require the same level of "logic" as say, coding?

After three mercifully brief video interviews, I received an offer so generous it felt like a proverbial middle finger to everyone who’d ever snarfed at me and said, “What are you gonna do with that English degree?” I’d been waiting my entire life for an opportunity like this. Pretty much right up until the day my fancy company iPhone and new laptop arrived, I was fairly certain I was being catfished.

But it was real and everyone was lovely and welcoming and eager to help me acclimate ... and now for the bad news…

Two weeks into the job, my dad went to the emergency room complaining of chest pains. He'd had a heart attack twenty years ago and thought he was on the verge of another. Though he didn’t have COVID, he was struggling with COPD and other issues from nearly a lifetime of habits that don't go hand-in-hand with good health.

At first, we weren't too worried. He’d had other close calls. He'd gone into the hospital before and he'd always come home—our very own cat with nine lives. When he got behind the wheel of his giant Mercury Marauder, he floored it, barreling through backstreets and flying down highways like a stunt driver on a meth binge. Yet he hadn’t had a fender bender or received a ticket in decades. Even though he’d turned 79 in January, to our family, he seemed invincible.

I won't get into the abysmal care he received that rollercoaster week that would be his last, but because of the hospital's policy, only my mother was able to see him until the night before he passed when I said a surreal good-bye. And, as so many people can relate, especially these days, we've found ourselves shocked and reeling.

I took a week off and my boss couldn't have been kinder. Still, it's a strange feeling to be new to a company and trying to get your footing only to find yourself suddenly grieving and completely disoriented. Despite the fatigue that felt like a weighted blanket, I couldn’t crawl out from beneath, I debated going back to work a day early. I didn't want to seem like I was taking advantage of my new employer. Plus, hard work had defined my father's life and it was ingrained in me, too.

I've been working on a memoir based on this blog (more on that soon) and I've had the pleasure of being paired with an editor whose wisdom has been invaluable. Like a literary Edward Scissorhands, she's trimmed and shaped at the same time she's made me dig deeper into why I carried such a sense of guilt and shame when I lost my job in 2014.

I've realized it had lot had to do with my dad who’d worked tirelessly to provide my mother, brothers, and me with a nice life. He'd lost his dad when he was just two and worked multiple jobs to put himself through college. He was the OG DIY-er—performing plumbing and electrical work at his own peril. When he set his mind to something, he accomplished it.

In working my way through these memoir edits, I tapped into the profound respect I had for all he’d achieved and all he'd given us. His life story was one I'd heard a million times, yet only as an adult could I appreciate it.

In the days since he's been gone, I've found myself wondering: had I ever really thanked him for all he'd done? Had I told him how much I admired him? I'd thought about it sometimes before we hung up the phone. But he wasn't a sentimental guy, and I guess I always thought we’d have more time. Actually, I thought I could hand him the memoir—especially now that he’s a central character—and he could read the words I'd always struggled to say.

At the risk of sounding preachy, if you've wanted to tell someone in your life what they've meant to you, don't wait.

As always, thanks for reading, and I hope you are well.

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Thank you!

A Long Overdue Italy Update & a Book Giveaway

2021-03-12T07:21:00.031-08:00

Remember when I attended that writing conference in Italy in 2018? (I know, I barely do either. Sometimes I think about Paul Simon's "America" and hum, "Recanati seems like a dream to me now..." Not quite the same ring as Michigan, but the same sentiment. You get it.)

I've never recapped that trip, probably because it still feels wildly self-indulgent—going alone, drinking amazing wine, talking about books for a week.

But I have an exciting update that's a direct result of attending so I wanted to share.

I started out in Rome, wandering through piazzas, admiring breathtaking architecture at every turn, getting lost despite having a map, courtesy of my hop-on, hop-off bus tour, sampling eggplant Parmesan ...

... nursing my minimal jet-lag with coffee and tiramisu....

The following day, my fellow attendees and I met and divided into small groups for the drive from Rome to Recanti. I rode with two poets who already knew one another. One had published a memoir and the other was performing at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

They could not have been more interesting and inclusive, often pausing the conversation to offer me sidebars about the poets they were discussing so I wouldn't feel left out.

Despite their kindness, by the time we arrived in the small village where we'd stay and workshop our pieces for the next five days, I'd traveled beyond Imposter Syndrome and landed at Full-Blown Fraud.

I hadn't felt that out of place since my mom signed me up for a co-ed basketball camp in 1985. I spent much of that loathsome week hiding under bleachers with my hands in my pockets. I'd rather have licked the bottom of a high-top than attempt a lay-up in front of 40 of my peers.

Anyway... I waited in line to check in to a hotel 4,300 miles from home, experiencing that same "I gotta get out of here" panic, when a stunning young woman crossed the lobby and introduced herself.

When I told her my name, she said, "You wrote the YA thriller!"

I nodded and waited. Would she burst out laughing and say that those first 50 pages I shared were the most confusing thing she'd read since she'd skimmed the instructions that accompanied IKEA's

BJÖRKSNÄS

nightstand?

Instead, she gushed, "I need to know what happens next!"

Her words and her warm smile reminded why I was there. I wanted to know what happened next too.

During the week, we discussed each other's writing and learned more about craft. We took a side trip to Sirolo, and no offense to the Jersey Shore, but wow!

Cappuccino by the sea in Sirolo.

I received a lot of feedback that helped me shift the opening and conceptualize the rest of the story I wanted to write. I began reworking it on the flight home. (And let me tell you, it took all my willpower not to ask the teen girl next to me if she'd read a bit and be brutally honest, as in, "Am I wasting my time here, kid?")

In the interest of brevity, I'll fast forward through the maddening self-doubt and the copious rejections and get to the good part: I received an offer from a publisher and signed a contract in the fall and that book, He'll Be Waiting, which seems so long in the making, will be released April 6.

I've been toying around with Goodreads and created a Giveaway (in case you're inclined).

Goodreads Book Giveaway

He’ll Be Waiting

by Liz Alterman

Giveaway ends April 02, 2021.

See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter Giveaway

I'm excited to see where this next adventure takes me (until the 1-star reviews start trickling in...).

When I started this blog, my husband and I had lost our jobs and it seemed like doors were closing all around us.

I'd like to believe they're starting to open again, and I hope they are for you as well.

(It's hard to take a bad pic in Italy, and yet these do seem to be crooked, don't they?)

Ciao!

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A New Job for Me? A New Job for You!

2021-03-06T15:15:00.004-08:00

Photo by Ian Taylor on Unsplash

Lately, there's been a lot of talk about "The Great Rehire" as companies ramp up following last year's mass layoffs.

Initially, I was skeptical, but then I heard from two recruiters in the same week. One had a great opportunity that I wasn't really qualified to pursue, so she said she'd be in touch if she found anything better suited to my skill set.

The other had an opening for a copywriter position at a young but rapidly-growing fintech firm. Though I've been fortunate to have plenty of freelance work to keep me busy, it's always exciting to consider the possibility of a corporate gig with paid time-off and benefits. (I still have no dental or vision coverage... hence this rather large font.)

The HR rep and I had a great conversation, and after three subsequent 45-minute interviews with various executives, I found out this past week that I'm still in the running. (I joke that I've been in long-term relationships with people who know less about me.)

While I'd be thrilled to advance to the next round, if I don't make it, I'm glad to have had this chance to hone my interviewing skills and a legit reason to shower, put on makeup, and hide out from my family for those video calls. Stay tuned for an update!

Now about that potential job for you...

In the past few months, several people have reached out to me to ask if I knew of anyone hiring in the IT space. (I suppose when you've experienced as many layoffs as we have, people assume you're always looking. They're not wrong!) I referred them to a corporate recruiter who was eager to help.

This week, I was contacted by a sourcing specialist with Telus International | Lionbridge AI who asked what I charge to post a job opening on this blog. Imagine?! I told her that wasn't necessary as I'd be happy to include it. (Maybe it'll generate some good employment karma.)

While this gig is definitely outside my wheelhouse, as my brother likes to say, I hope it may be right for someone out there reading this.

When asked about the hiring process, Rebecca, the sourcing specialist, said it's "quite fast, so they could be working within two weeks if they pass all our recruitment checks."

When asked about compensation, she said more information would be given at the time an offer is made.

Part time, Independent Contractor, Work from Home Opportunity

The Position

Are you looking for a position that gives you the opportunity to work with one of America’s top 100 most trusted Companies while also increasing your income from the comfort of your home? Then why not join Lionbridge as a part-time Independent Contractor. We are currently recruiting for the position of Online Map Quality Analysts in the United States.

The position will allow you to work from home on a flexible schedule of up to 20 hours per week completing tasks in a web-based evaluation tool. The tasks will involve determining the relevance and accuracy of information by performing online research and referring to guidelines provided to you. The tasks will mainly be map related but it is possible there will be non-map related tasks you are required to work on from time to time. Candidates for this position will need to have good research skills and a strong understanding of local and national information. Cultural, geographical, social media and current affairs knowledge are important in this position.

The Requirements

Fluency in English is essential
You must be living in the United States for the last 3 consecutive years
Working knowledge of local and national geographical areas
Passing an online evaluation to demonstrate capability of reading and applying the guidelines
Experience/know-how of using online maps, search engines and website research
You must have familiarity with current and historical business, media, sport, news, social
media and cultural affairs in the United States
Access to and use of a broadband internet connection and associated computer and software to
Perform the work, all provided at your own expense

The Position Will Involve

Reading and applying written guidelines on how to evaluate and rate the tasks

Please note it is possible you will receive guidelines for multiple task types over the course of the program

Research using online tools to determine the relevance and accuracy of the task information

Applying local knowledge to evaluate relevance of the task information in your market

Completing tasks in the web-based evaluation tool

Hours for this position are up to 20 hours per week depending on task availability

This is a freelance, independent contractor position.

Think you're interested? Here's the link and best of luck!

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A Holiday Miracle (& Some Thoughts on Test Assignments)

2020-12-14T15:48:00.003-08:00

Photo by Zuza Gałczyńska on Unsplash

In what can only be described as a holiday miracle, my husband got a job. He started last Monday, and while it's significantly cut into his napping schedule, so far, so good.

During his seven-month search, we once again benefited from thoughtful friends who regularly checked in and offered to put him in touch with connections who were hiring, which is ultimately how he landed this role.

I joked with one of my freelance colleagues, who also sent generously took the time to send links to openings he spotted while skimming Facebook, "Let's hope he can ride this out until retirement!" (Cue the maniacal laughter: Who am I kidding? After all of our layoffs, we will be working until we draw our last breaths.)

While I'm thrilled he found something, getting to this point was no easy feat. He had multiple phone and video interviews, which included the always-odd, "What's your personal theme song?"

When he told me, I was certain he was joking. How!? How is this relevant? What does your choosing a dirge by, say, Morrissey versus a rap by Flavor Flav tell the hiring manager about your ability to compile a compelling and cohesive newsletter?

I'll never understand it.

What was his answer, you ask? The same one he wanted to use six-plus years ago! A Johnny Cash song—not an upbeat one like "Get Rhythm" or "Ring of Fire." Nope.

Once again, he decided to go with "The Man in Black," which, as I told him in 2014, feels more suited to someone applying for social work or prison warden positions.

He told me after the fact, of course, so picture my head exploding as I wondered if we'd be eating cat food for Christmas dinner.

Following those interviews, he was given a writing and editing test. He felt those went well, and I thought, "Okay, maybe this is it?"

Not so fast! There were still more hurdles to clear! He needed to actually spend two days doing part of the job.

Now I'm all for gaining experience, and this did seem like a way for him to test them out too. Yet at the same time, it irked me. When I complained to my mother, she reminded me of the days she was applying for full-time work after my father was downsized.

"The questions they asked me! The nerve!" she laughed. "I wanted to say to them, 'I think you're confused. I'm here for the administrative assistant position; I'm not applying for the CEO's job.'"

It also got under my skin because after I wrote about dropping out of an interview process, several readers reached out to share their recent experiences. They, too, felt as if they were being taken advantage of by being asked to do an unreasonable amount of work with little to no compensation in order to remain in the running for a job.

It got me thinking: How much time and energy is appropriate to devote to a sample assignment? In the current climate—especially if you're between jobs—it can seem as if your hands are tied. It can also make you wonder if employers, sensing the desperation of candidates, aren't using this as an opportunity to get something for nothing.

I decided to ask Stacey Berk, managing consultant at Expanding HR, who's been a wonderful resource for me, what's a reasonable amount of time employers can expect candidates to devote to an assessment?

"During the interview process, candidates might be asked to complete either a formal (originated or purchased from an outside company, which has been validated; such as a job simulation, sales, custom culture test, coding or software, an administrative/typing, and cognitive or personality indicator tests) or informal assessment (internal to the company, unvalidated; common examples include an essay, a mock case study or experiment, a sample press release, etc.)," she explained. "In the current environment, candidates can expect to complete the formal ones within a 1-2 hour window. Some are video assisted and timed. Informal assessments might be overnight or two days, the employer usually has some flexibility."

Test assignments aren't all bad in that they give you a sense of what you'd likely encounter should you get the job.

If you're comfortable with the work, great. If not, better to know now rather than find yourself in the position, miserable, and longing for a return to unemployment (and the days when you were wondering just how many cans of cat food will satisfy a family of five).

But the take-home test shouldn't be so time-consuming that it makes you feel as if you're already doing the job for free, which led to my next question: When is it fair to request/expect payment for a trial assignment?

"Companies should pay for all fees associated with formal assessments, usually purchased in advance and web based," she said. "On other occasions, if the assignment is part of an accepted industry norm, it's important for the job seeker to understand any obligations ahead of time, and I strongly encouraged candidates to ask the recruiter or hiring manager."

Stacey added that generally, if the organization is not paying for the assessments, that is a potential red flag, as these assessments are for the company to help filter out unqualified candidates.

It's perfectly acceptable to say something like, "Due to time constraints and other commitments, I can't accept unpaid assignments at the moment. I can, however, send you samples of my work which closely align with the test assessment."

This may inspire the employer to offer payment or a shorter assignment. They might accept your work sample, which saves you time and effort. Or, they may tell you they're moving ahead with other candidates, which can make you wonder just how interested they were in the first place.

When it comes to test assignments, weigh the pros and cons, and try—even in these difficult times—to remember your worth.

Thanks for reading and hope you are well.

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