Frankly Speaking

Pre-Counteroffers: Why All of Your Top Employees Should Be Getting Them

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 21:22:00 +0000

There is no doubt about it. The job is market healthier than it’s been in years and hiring is HOT!

According to MarketWatch’s Jeffry Bartash’s report last week, "The U.S. economy has slowed down by almost every measure except for perhaps the most crucial one: jobs."

But while your company is out there, hyper-focused on scouting and recruiting fresh, new, top talent, are you overlooking the players you already have on the team?

Of course you are, until they come to you to give their two-weeks notice. Then you start scrambling to give them whatever they want…more money, title promotion, flex/work-from home days, more vacation, new boss. Whatever it is, you need to give it to them because you can’t live without them – they’re loyal, key-players!

And then you realize, you are too little, too late.

Most savvy candidates are fully-aware of the no-no’s of accepting counteroffers. Just plug the term into any search engine and you’ll find a plethora of articles, posts and resources advising against them.

Perhaps you should’ve given them a pre-counteroffer when you had the chance.

Yep, that’s right. An “I’m a step ahead of your future offer” move that’s so great, they wouldn’t need to entertain the idea of leaving in the first place. For example…did you put them on a path to reach their career goals, address to their wants/needs during their last review, or present creative ways to keep them challenged, interested and enthusiastic? Did you truly reward them for their excellent work and loyalty to the company? Did you invest in them, proactively?

If you have been resting on your laurels with your current fantastic team and assuming (maybe hoping) that they’ll just stay forever because they are loyal, appear happy, or seem to be making “enough” money, think again. It might be time to take a new tactic.

Don’t wait for them to come to you with a resignation letter. Get out in front of it.

Listen: Talk with your employees. No, not at them, with them. And not just during “review” time. Check-in to see how things are going, or if there are things you can do to make their employee experience better. Are they getting what they need/want? Do they have concerns or issues that you can work to alleviate? Do they need more/different mentorship or direction? Do they want to work on new projects? Do they just want to be heard? Their issues, requests or concerns might be small and easy to fix to you, but to them they might be the motivators for a new job. Even tiny tweaks go a long way!

Watch, Recognize, Reward: Notice the employees who are putting in the long hours. Acknowledge small success AND big wins. Say thank you. Order in lunch. Give spot bonuses. Offer a spontaneous day-off after a big project. Give well-deserved promotions and healthy salary increases before they are requested. Keep investing in them, and they will invest in you.

Evolve: Money and title aren’t everything. Today, benefits and company culture weigh just as heavily when people decide where they want to spend their many working (and waking) hours. Do you offer flex schedules? Are you all work and no play? Do you respect boundaries during non-working hours? Do you encourage your employees to actually take their allotted vacation time? Do you have open, collaborative, work environments? Stay on top of the ever-changing work culture trends, and implement a few when you can. Your employees will appreciate your efforts in supporting their quest for work-life balance, and your best employees will be that much more productive.

Frankly Speaking, Don’t wait until it’s too late, Of course, we can’t always prevent our employees from moving on and taking new opportunities. In fact, sometimes we aren’t equipped to offer what they need to excel, catapult forward, or feel fulfilled on their own paths. But, by staying ahead of the game and being more in-tune with their needs and interests, we can, at the very least, give it our best shot.

Employers: Who is Fighting YOUR War For Talent?

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Wed, 11 Mar 2015 13:32:00 +0000

More jobs. Fewer qualified candidates. Faster interview processes. Bigger salary increases. Premature promotions. Multiple offers. Counteroffers.

It’s here and we are all feeling it.

Your business is growing. You need to hire more top talent ASAP. You post a job description on LinkedIn. You get some responses, but none of them are even close to being qualified. You incentivize your employees with referral fees, but you still aren’t seeing much. You push your internal recruitment team for more resumes, but they, too, are baffled as to why their efforts – the same ones that have brought you great talent over the past five years – aren’t working either, anymore.

And then, eventually you find a great person for the job…and you have them come back four more times to meet everyone on the team (because it’s important that everyone is on board), and by the time you are comfortable enough to make them an offer, you find out that the candidate has two other compelling offers already in hand. And with no other qualified candidates in the pipeline – you may be back to square one by the end of the week.

You’re a hiring manager. What are you going to do about this? How will you navigate the battles in this new, evolving, candidate-driven talent war?

Know Your Mission: You know that you need to hire, but do you know exactly what or who you’re looking for to get the job done? Are the job’s goals and objectives clear and defined? Are your salary ranges competitive? How many people do you need to hire? What is your hiring timeline? Do you have a healthy recruiting budget? Do you have funds to make an investment hire if you come across unplanned top talent that could be a true asset to your company? Hiring for a company is like putting together a puzzle of various skill sets and personalities. If you and your team have a clear, unified vision of what your company needs to accomplish through its talent acquisition, you can make more precise hires within shorter time frames.

Find Out What You’re Up Against: Do you know what your competitors are offering? Significant salary increases? Big bonuses? Flexible/work-from-home schedules? Company cars? Cell phones? Laptops? Doggie day care? Free booze Fridays? Compensation and benefits packages come in all shapes and sizes these days, as we strive to find creative ways to improve (or cushion) the work-life balance conundrum. Assess your current offerings and do some reconnaissance to find out how yours stack up against the others. Don’t be afraid to integrate new trends, but put create incentives, polices or procedures around them ahead of time so you can offer new benefits in an organized, thoughtful way – not with your back up against the wall just to lure in a new employee OR to try to keep an existing one.

Be Unpredictable: It’s definitely easier to pluck a candidate right from a competitor who is doing the exact work that you need done at your company. Someone who can come in and “hit the ground running” is always ideal. But, have you ever really considered who else might be out there? Open up your search a bit, vet for transferable skills and strong culture fit, and perhaps you’ll uncover someone with a non-traditional background, who might bring even greater value or the fresh perspective your company needs. Now is the time to step outside your hiring comfort zone, reach into a different kind of talent pool, take a chance, and get creative!

Engage Your Allies: Current employees, former employees, former colleagues, industry peers, vendors, clients, friends and family. Know your ambassadors and ask for their help in identifying and referring talent. Incentivize them. They know you, and your company, its culture, its successes and its idiosyncrasies. Their support, insight, recommendations and networks will prove invaluable to you in this process. Just make sure you return the favor!

Strategically Assemble Your Frontline: Who is actually going to battle for you? Who is in the field on your behalf? Is your internal HR/Recruitment team well-equipped to find the right talent, and then to sell, sell, sell? Post-and-pray, social media, video-vetting, Taleo-reliant methods will no longer get you the best talent. Today’s top talent is passive – they are not hanging around on LinkedIn, Indeed, or other platforms looking for a new job. They are already head-down and knee-deep in their current work. Those are the people you want. Hire skilled recruitment partners (internal and/or external) who know the market, are well-versed and well-connected in your industry, who are skilled in engaging and motivating passive candidates, and who are genuine partners to you and your company. If talent acquisition is your priority – this is a necessary investment for your future.

WIN! You know ‘em when you see ‘em, and top candidates have short shelf-lives. Your recruitment partner should be able to guide you to make a competitive and compelling offer that your favorite candidate will accept. So, hurry up! What are you waiting for? Make the offer. Seal the deal.

Frankly speaking: We haven’t seen a job market like this one in years. While technology has greatly impacted our recent talent acquisition strategies, companies must be armed with pre-recession, back-to-the basics, traditional recruitment efforts AND experts, if they truly want to see results.

The War for Talent is definitely on. Are you prepared to go to battle?

8 Ways You Are Sabotaging Your Job Search

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Tue, 10 Feb 2015 23:34:00 +0000

You so are eager to find a new job, but you can’t seem to get anywhere with your search. Could it be you? Are you getting in your own way of landing your dream job?

Here are eight ways that candidates sabotage their own job searches – do any of these sound familiar?

You Say “No” Too Quickly: If it doesn’t sound perfect on paper, you don’t want to waste anyone’s time, right? Wrong. If you are truly open to new opportunities, then be open. Stop finding excuses. Entertain conversations. Go on some interviews. Listen to recruiters. Sure, you might have some strange meetings or have days where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels. But, I promise, you’ll be surprised at what will come your way when you start saying “yes” more often.

You Have Unrealistic Expectations: We know you’re great. You graduated from a top school. You’ve been operating at two levels above your current one for years. You’ve turned down a bunch of offers recently from big companies. The president of the firm loves you. All might be true… but, I’ve got news for you: your five summer internships don’t translate to 5-7 years of work experience. Just because you graduated college doesn’t mean that you should come into a role at a manager level. And, if you’ve been doing vice president level work for three years, how come you haven’t been up for promotion at all? Everyone starts somewhere and we all have to earn our stripes. Aim high, but keep it real. Future employers aren’t responsible for your college loans or your rent, nor should they be expected to pay for the sins of your past employers. You might be stellar, but companies still have ranges and limits – and they aren’t afraid to pass on top candidates who have outrageous demands.

Your Presentation is Sloppy: Do you have misspelled words in your resume? Is your LinkedIn profile picture of you holding a beer on a beach or showing off your assets in that low-cut dress? Is your cover letter free of grammatical errors, and is it addressed to the correct person/company. Better yet, did you even submit a cover letter with your resume? This is no joke. I’ve seen it all. Before you even step foot in the door for an in-person interview, you will be judged by your online profiles, resumes and writing samples. If you are serious about a job search, make the time to proofread your application materials and clean up your online presence. It will make a world of difference.

You Are Too Cocky: You are so well-qualified (and just generally pretty amazing), that you are pretty confident that you have the job before you even have the interview. Yeah, nobody really likes that. Healthy confidence is attractive, arrogance is usually a big deal breaker. Check your overblown ego at the door and bring your humility with you to the interview. Share actual examples of relevant experience and sell yourself on your merits. Be someone you would want to work with, not the person you talk about at the water cooler.

You Are Focused on the Wrong Things: Vacation time, sick days, flexible work from home schedules, summer hours, and if there are any good restaurants nearby for lunch. If you are asking about any of these during a first interview, or using these as criteria to turn down initial meetings or potential opportunities, you might want to reevaluate your search filters. Employers are looking for candidates who actually want to work for them . They will see right through you if you are more concerned about how you can get out of the office, rather than how you will make an impact while you’re there.

You Listen Too Much To Others: Your dad said that you should ask for a 50% salary increase because you are underpaid. Your best friend said you should play hard to get – “if they really want you they’ll do anything to get you.” Your spouse said that you should turn down the offer because there won’t be enough work-life balance. The Glassdoor reviews (by a former employee) said that it’s a demanding place to work and they wouldn’t recommend the company. So, what do YOU think? Do you have enough information to actually make a decision? Do these “advisors” know the companies you are applying/talking to. Furthermore, do your friends and relatives even know anything about your industry? Mentors and sounding boards are great – just make sure they are knowledgeable and objective.

You Don’t Know What You Want: You just need a job and you’re open to anything, right? So, you’ll clean toilets, get your boss’ coffee and work the graveyard shift? See, you aren’t open to anything. Take a moment, stop randomly applying to every new post you see on Careerbuilder, Monster, Indeed and Craigslist, and get some focus. Once you hone in on an industry or two, you’re sure to start making some real headway.

You Just Aren’t That Into It: Job searching is a real commitment. If you don’t put much into it, you won’t get much out. If you really want something new, show it. Be proactive. Be persistent. Be present.

Frankly Speaking: There is a lot of great opportunity out there for job-seekers today. Figure out what you want and go after it. Be honest with yourself about your strengths, abilities and priorities. Listen to your own intuition. Be selective, but not too picky. Ask for what you want, but know your industry and be reasonable. Don’t let your pride get in your way, and find a place where you can learn, grow, take on new challenges and be recognized for your hard work.

The 5 Golden Rules of Networking

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 21:28:00 +0000

Picture it: Early morning coffee at your neighborhood café. You hop on LinkedIn to update your profile with the new job that you are excited to start the next day. Within minutes, you receive a Facebook message from…wait, who is THAT? Oh, yeah, an old classmate from high school that “friended” you a while back. It reads:

Hi Jane. Long time, no talk. I see you are living in (your city). I just moved here, too! I love it! It looks like things are going so well for you and your husband/wife (whose name he doesn’t know). Your kids are so cute, too! From your pictures, they look like a lot of fun. So… I noticed you are working at (new company just updated 3 minutes ago on LinkedIn). I really have been trying to get in there – I’ve applied to 3 or 4 of their job postings, but I haven’t heard anything. Could I send you my resume so it gets to the right person? I’m sure it’s just going into a black hole. I know we haven’t talked in a long time (10+yrs), but it would be great if you could put in a good word for me! Thanks again – I REALLY appreciate this. We should catch up sometime soon. Thanks, Jim

Sound familiar??

Networking is indeed, an art, filled with many do’s and don’ts, should’ves and could’ves. With so much emphasis today on building profiles and perusing social networks, people are more accessible, boundaries have been blurred, and there are varying standards about what is considered appropriate, acceptable and effective.

However, beneath it all, there are still social mores and etiquettes – Golden Rules - that hold true in order for the networking process to do what it’s supposed to do: to allow us to connect, interact and ultimately help each other in a genuine, thoughtful and reciprocal manner.

Don’t Be Shy: Get out there and meet people, face-to-face. Make it a goal to meet five new people the next time you go to a charity event, birthday party, trade show, conference or networking social hour. Learn about them – what they do, where they are from, about their families and interests. Exchange contact information. Don’t let their business cards collect dust on your desk. Follow up. Check in. Have dinner. Play golf. These people could become your new friends or future colleagues. But, you’ll never meet them if you don’t get out of the house.

Request, Don’t Expect: It’s true -you never know until you ask. But, your wish may not always be granted. When you are asking someone to do you a favor, know your audience - figuratively and literally. Don’t be pushy or demanding. Offer something in return. Don’t get angry if they can’t/won’t help you. Be appreciative of any effort, big or small, regardless of the outcome. Keep the door open. Give them a reason to want to help you in the future.

We are people, not just profiles: Even with pictures included, it can be easy to forget that those are people behind those profiles you’re reading. But, if you want to make a genuine and valuable connection, get out from behind the computer screen and make real time for them. Invite them for a cup of coffee or a drink. Or, if you can’t meet them in person, set a time to Skype/FaceTime, or have a phone call, at the very least. You never know what else you might have in common, or how you might be able to help each other- now or in the future. I promise, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at what you learn from a live conversation.

It’s not just about YOU: Give more than you take. Don’t keep score. Say yes to helping others. Pay it Forward. Reciprocate. It’s easy to just reach out to people when you need something, but the most successful networkers have a natural willingness to help others- even if there is nothing in it for them. Be generous. Make introductions. Think beyond yourself. What goes around, comes around.

Stay in touch: Remember when your contact introduced you to his former boss about that job you wanted? Did you ever follow-up to let him know the outcome? How about that former classmate job-seeker you recommended to a recruiter for a search? Did you ever find out what happened? When people help you, don’t just leave ‘em hanging. Keep them in the loop. Show appreciation for their efforts. And, even if there isn’t a particular reason, keep up on what is going on with your network. Send a birthday greeting. Or a congratulatory email about a promotion. Or a just note to say hi if it’s been a long time since you talked last. It’s okay to reach out, “just because.” People who are thinking of you, like to know that you are thinking of them, too.

As you begin 2015 with new goals and resolutions, remember the Golden Rules. Reconnect with old friends or colleagues, meet and connect with new people, and take the opportunity to help someone else reach his/her goals this year. Networking is key to professional development and career advancement. Face it – we are all in this together. We need each other.

Frankly speaking: It’s not just what you know OR who know you…but it’s how you connect with who you know that gets you to where you want to be.

Career Tradeoffs: What Are You Willing To Give Up?

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Mon, 22 Sep 2014 20:11:00 +0000

Yes, you can have it all. But can you have it all at once?

Robert was at a crossroads. After four years at the same company, he needed a change. But, not just a job change, a career change. He had joined the company right after college, was making a great living in sales, came and went as he pleased, and his managers adored him. But, he despised cold calling, and he had no passion for the products he was selling. He really wanted to pursue his dream career: a job in the sports or entertainment industry. He also missed his family and wanted to move to be closer to them and, perhaps, eventually settle down and get married.

But, could he really leave? Would he be able to find his dream career, in a new city, that would pay him just as well (if not better), and offer him all of the same benefits and flexibilities that he earned at his current company? Could he have it all?

Yes, most likely. But I can’t reiterate it enough: nothing great comes without sacrifice.

The road to fulfilling your ultimate goals is an evolving negotiation of what you’re willing to let go of in order to get closer to what you want.

Know Your Deal-Breakers: Sit down and make a list of your make-or-breaks before you get too far into the process. What is the lowest salary that you can accept for an ideal job? Would you accept a lateral title? Would you pay to relocate yourself, or would you relocate without a job? Would you go back to working a 5-day work-week in an office if you’ve been working from home? How far can you commute? Knowing your limits and flexibilities before embarking on change will give you more clarity and confidence when you are faced with big decisions. But, remember to be reasonable about your demands and deal-breakers. Nobody wants to hire a prima donna.

Keep Your Eye On The Prize: Yes. That big pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is that job you’ve been dreaming about. You will face your share of gloomy days, cold streaks, heat waves, and even tornadoes, but don’t let a few shake-ups take you off course. There will come a time that you will do things you don’t want to do. You might have pull an all-nighter, work on the weekends, endure a terrible manager, fire a team member, or get yelled at by a client. Everyone experiences it. It will make you stronger. And, one day, you will look back and be grateful for it.

Be Patient: If all of your goals were achieved at one time, what more would you have to live for? Good things come to those who wait, remember? Stay the course. Take pride in the baby steps. Embrace the challenges. Be open to new opportunities. Trust your gut. Accept when it’s time to make a change. You never know when the next best thing will be on your doorstep.

Frankly speaking, no matter which way you cut it, something always has to give. It can be a tough pill to swallow, but sometimes we have to take a step back to make a giant leap forward, or forfeit a convenience to gain something even more fruitful or meaningful. It’s a personal negotiation. An evolving pros and cons list. But, it will pay off in the end.

What are you willing to sacrifice to achieve your next career goal?

5 Reasons You Weren’t Invited Back For Another Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Wed, 03 Sep 2014 19:48:00 +0000

“The hiring manager and I had such a great conversation! The chemistry was totally there, and the job is PERFECT for me. I know I would be a great fit at the company – the culture is awesome. I can’t understand why they didn’t call me back for a second interview?”

Sound familiar? Yes, of course there are a ton of reasonable reasons that you may not have made the cut for the next round of interviews: they promoted someone internally, they found someone that was a little bit of a better fit (but you were surely a close-second) or maybe they decided not to hire anyone at all.

But often times, it was your big, bad, glaring interview flub that cost you the opportunity.

You tried to wing-it, and it showed: You have information galore at your fingertips, so why didn’t you read the company’s website, look up your interviewers on LinkedIn, or even read through the job description before your interview? Oh, you were too busy? You didn’t have time? You’re naturally a “great interviewer” who never needs to prep? Hiring managers always know when you haven’t done your due diligence. They want candidates who make the time to research them, the role and the company…and then discuss these details AT the interview. Don’t you remember? Cliff’s Notes are never enough, you always have to read the book to pass the test.

You were bad-mouthing: Just because you’re interviewing for a new job because you are unhappy at your current one, doesn’t mean you need to divulge every detail about what you hate most about your boss, your colleagues, and the way the company treats you – right there – at the interview – while you are being sized-up for something new. No future hiring manager wants to hire a complainer, let alone someone who may not get along with co-workers or blend in well with the company culture. If you’re talking about your former experiences that way – why won’t you one day talk about your future boss/company/co-workers that way, too? Stick to the skills and experiences you’re hoping to gain in your next role that your current company can’t offer. Practice the art of being tactful no matter how “comfortable” you get chatting with your interviewer. You might have a bunch of stuff in common, but you not friends (yet) - you are still being observed, evaluated, and judged for everything you say.

You were focused on what they could do for you: Companies set out to hire people who bring value. They search high and low for people who have the right experience, are team players, have a solid work ethic, can fulfill the responsibilities of the role at hand, and will be great contributors to the company, overall. Did you highlight all of these points during your interview? Or, instead, did you make sure to ask your laundry list of questions about how quickly you could get promoted after getting hired, how much of a raise you could get if you joined, frequency of company social outings, fringe benefits, and opportunities for tuition reimbursement so you can finally go back and get your MBA while working at this company? There is a time and place to ask these questions – but it’s not on the first date! When it is determined that you’re the right person for the job, the company will address your questions and review your benefits. In the meantime, be patient, show your stuff and give them a reason to pick you!

You asked about how much you wouldn’t have to work: Did you ask if you get the afternoons off for “summer Fridays,” or if you get the week off between Christmas and New Years Day? How about the number of sick days, work from home days or general paid time off? You told them that you were looking for a new job because you really need a “work-life balance,” right? Friends, we all want a work-life balance. I am by no means here to tell you to give up your personal life. But, do you know how it makes you sound when you’re trying to prove to a future hiring manager that you have an outstanding work ethic, when you are asking about your allotted time-off at the same time? Vacation policies and other special company time-off perks will eventually be shared, usually as part of a larger benefits package. Companies want employees that will do whatever it takes to get something done. It’s always a red flag when a candidate is more focused on their time-off when they haven’t even been fully considered for their time-on, yet.

You didn’t say thank you: Thank you notes. Did you remember to send one after your interview? I hope so because the people who interviewed you are expecting to see one in their inboxes within 12-24 hours after your interview (yes, you can email them). They will likely notice if they don’t get one, and, no matter how great of a candidate you are, this is an interview deal-breaker for some. If you did write a thank you note, hopefully you used spell check. Sloppy, poorly written thank you notes are deal-breakers, too. Trust me – I’ve seen it happen. Interviews don’t just end when you walk out the door and go on your merry way. Take time to draft a well-written, thoughtful thank you note to each person you met during your interview to show appreciation of their time and your interest in their company. You had a stellar interview, make your thank you note the icing on the cake!

Frankly speaking, anyone who has interviewed for a job may think these “no-nos” are just plain obvious. But, friends, my recruiting and hiring manager colleagues are still eliminating candidates for these reasons almost daily. Yes, it’s surprising, but all of these mishaps can be avoided. Your interview is the time for you to put your best foot forward- to shine! Prepare. Research. Practice interview questions. Be tactful. Be patient. Appreciate the opportunity to be considered. Whether you get the job or not, at least you’ll always make an excellent professional impression.

Tales of The Entitled Job Seeker

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 21:48:00 +0000

We all know people like this. We meet them at networking events and dinner parties. We listen to their stories and empathize with their unsuccessful job search efforts. So, we recommend them for job openings, or we carve out time to interview them, and sometimes we even give them job offers. But, inevitably, somewhere during the process, the truth reveals itself. They are not victims of a tough job market. They are bright, capable, smart, marketable candidates – who are actually victims of themselves, held hostage by their own unrealistic expectations and outrageous demands of the workplace.

As a recruiter and career coach, I see this all too often. People getting in the way of their own potential and career success because of what they “think” they should be getting from employers.

The unemployed job seeker to whom I was introduced by a friend a few months ago. The guy with excellent experience, an MBA and a solid resume who has also turned down three great job offers with top companies because he can’t (read: won’t) accept anything less than a 30% increase from his last job. Yes- the job that he was laid off from…almost two years ago.

The employed job seeker who sought me out to discuss a search that I advertised last fall, but then spent our whole meeting telling me how happy, challenged and well-compensated she was at her current company. But, then admitted that she actually hunted me down because she was out for her boss’s job, and was hoping I could introduce her to a role that would pay her $75K-$100K more in base salary, with a title promotion, and preferably a four-day work week with a flexible telecommuting schedule. Not to mention an additional week of PTO, AND a robust signing bonus, hopefully giving her the leverage she needed to ultimately secure a huge internal promotion at her current company – as she has a great relationship with her CEO and she was sure she was invaluable and irreplaceable.

And last, but not least, our future leaders. The “this-is-my-first-job- in-the-real- world” job seekers. The recent grads that I speak with daily who are rejecting job offers because they fear they won’t have enough work-life balance; or who have their parents reach out to me on their behalf to follow-up on resume submissions or to help them negotiate their job offers; or who pull themselves from interview processes because they don’t want to do tactical work, as they feel that they are already prepared to create top line strategies and manage teams; and who believe that they deserve higher salaries in order to cover their rents, bills, school loans AND weekend spending habits.

I share these (true, not exaggerated) examples in hopes of bringing humility, introspection, reality and perspective back to the job search process. While we are much more efficient and sophisticated than generations past, some things still remain the same. You don’t just start at the top from nothing. Everyone has a ladder to climb. And, entering into a job search with visions of unjustified increases, a laundry list of expected fringe benefits, or underlying motives of leverage will likely only leave you feeling disappointed in your efforts to advance. Not to mention the bridges that can be burned with hiring managers, HR managers, recruiters and the people in your networks who are trying to help during the process.

Frankly speaking, nothing great comes without sacrifice. Set your goals and stay true to them, but be realistic about your deal-breakers. Lean in, but don’t fall on your face. Your ideal job may not initially appear with all of the bells and whistles on your spreadsheet, but it might just put you on the path to achieving your larger career dreams.

Oh, the places I’ll go... if I could just get that interview!

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Wed, 06 Aug 2014 13:55:00 +0000

“So, do you think I’m marketable?”

I can’t tell you how many times I’m asked this question. Whether it be by recent grads entering the workforce, by working professionals with exceptional credentials and solid experience, by unemployed folks actively seeking their next role, and by entrepreneurs trying to get their businesses off the ground – everyone wants to make sure that they have what it takes to get noticed in this competitive market.

The answer is: Yes, of course you are marketable. You have educational, work and life experiences that set you apart from any of your peers, exceptional accomplishments under your belt that any hiring manager would want on his/her team, and the skills and talents (not to mention that “glowing personality”) that would make you an invaluable asset to any company.

So, why aren’t you getting instant responses from resume submissions? Or why aren’t your LinkedIn contacts jumping to help you when you randomly email them about that opening at their company? Or why aren’t recruiters reaching out to you about the jobs that they are working so hard to fill? If someone would just notice you, you would prove yourself in no time, right?

The truth is, even though you are marketable, you still need to market yourself.

Sitting behind your computer, sending out mass emails/resumes and praying for a response, or going to a networking event, grabbing a drink and hoping someone approaches you to ask you what you do, and then wants to hire you on the spot for your dream job…is not what I mean by “marketing” yourself.

Time and again, I talk to job seekers about the things they are doing to promote themselves – or even to get a foot in the door at their favorite companies. You wouldn’t believe how often the basics are overlooked. I can’t reiterate it enough: if you want something, go out there and make it happen! Some of these tips below may seem basic or intuitive to you, but to some they are out of their comfort zones, or are often forgotten or replaced with new technologies.

Meet People: In-person. Yes, the old-fashioned way. Reach out to your LinkedIn/social media contacts and invite them to have coffee with you. Be brave: go to a networking event and introduce yourself to five new people, find out what they do and exchange contact information. Suggest informational interviews with company hiring managers or industry recruiters. Dedicating time to meeting and talking with people live leads to real, genuine connections - often opening up unimaginable doors– both professionally and personally.

Perfect Your Pitch: You’re finally out there meeting people,…but what do you say to them? Make sure, first, you know what you’re looking for! It’s important to be open-minded, but not too vague at the same time. So, take your time to find your clarity about your direction and goals. Then, create an elevator speech (just a couple of sentences) that explains what you’re doing/your expertise and what you are looking to do. For example: “ I just graduated from Indiana University’s Journalism school and moved to Chicago last month. Now, I’m here actively looking for a PR/Communications role with a PR agency or local company.” This quickly gives some insight into you, opens up conversation, and allows for the other person to ask questions, provide suggestions, and exchange contact information.

Share Your Collateral: All of your resumes, cover letters, job search emails, and blog posts/social media efforts are all free of errors, formatted nicely, easy to read, and are an extension of you – your brand – right? You don’t want any of your marketing collateral to cause you collateral damage. Once a door is open for you to have an information meeting, apply for a job, or have an interview, you don’t want it to take a turn for the worse with sloppy writing or inappropriate social media presences. Proofread all of your materials to ensure that they are consistent with your experiences, your accomplishments, your goals, and your brand, overall.

Frankly Speaking, making the time to market yourself may feel like a lot of work, or even a little scary, but it will pay off in the end. There are boundless roads ahead for you to travel. Look inwards, be clear about what you want, connect with new people, learn about others’ experiences, showcase your uniqueness, talk about your goals, and be open to opportunities in the least expected places.

When You Least Expect It

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Tue, 21 May 2013 13:35:00 +0000

“When you least expect it.” Those go-to, sage words of wisdom that people inevitably share with you when you’re feeling single and alone, or panicked because business is slow, or when you are just in an overall life rut. They say it with that reassuring smile like they know something you don’t. As a little whisper in your ear to incentivize you not to lose faith when you’re really down. And while I would more often than not reply to that statement with a roll of the eyes, I recently had a change of heart.

When I started Frankly Speaking a little more than a year ago, I was immersed full-time at a recruiting firm - one that had been beaten up by The Great Recession and was slowly emerging from the ruts of a jobless recovery. Although business was just starting to get better, I realized that I wanted more. So I began blogging as an initial, but pivotal step to moving me closer to my passions. For well over 2 years prior, I felt like my world had been in “Groundhog’s Day “mode and I found myself wondering what happened to all of my plans? I was finally re-inspired to put my own life plan back into action - and to help others do the same.

Personally, I spent many a Saturday at Starbucks with my mentor/coach laying out all of the steps I would take over the next year of my life to achieve my goals. I had so much that I wanted to do. These were big-girl steps that I wanted to take. I’d spent way too much time on the baby staircase. I needed to make some real changes.

I finally had a plan. I was finally back on track.

But, as we know, life rarely goes as planned, and things we hope and wish for don’t always come to us in the way that we think they will.

When you least expect it.

You see, one of my goals was career advancement, leadership and autonomy, but I never imagined that my company would suddenly close its doors– leaving me the opportunity to open my own. I knew that after 11 ½ years of living in the same apartment building that I wanted to move, but I never thought that my living environment would change enough to force me to do it without looking back. And when I set out to be a career/life coach, I never thought that the random girl eavesdropping on me at Starbucks might lead me to my next partnership.

Yes. All of these things were in my plan, but not at all the way I planned them.

Frankly speaking, the past year has taught me that extraordinary things can happen when you truly commit to making changes. Sometimes they happen at inopportune times or in ways that come out of left field, but it’s so important to be open to accepting them when they appear – especially if it’s when you least expect it.

Ctrl + Alt + Delete

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:37:00 +0000

So, here we are. Entering into the final two weeks of 2012. I started this blog at the beginning of this year- Leap Day, to be exact – and my, oh my, how unknowingly symbolic that actually was. This year has been full of leaps that 10 months ago, I never would’ve believed that I would’ve taken. And I am eternally grateful. I actually sit here in amazement of how the Universe has such a way of “keeping you on your toes” in ways you’d never expect.

But yet again, this time of year has crept up on me way too fast, giving me a swift kick in the tuchas, whispering all of those sweet “R-word” nothings in my ear…rejoice, reflect, relax, refresh, rejuvenate and make your resolutions! And as I’ve tried to slow down and throw myself into the smells of potato latkes and the sounds of Christmas carols at every turn, I admittedly have been having a hard time “being in the moment”. How could that be? I’ve spent the past few months riding roller coasters and catching curveballs – what could possibly be missing now?

Apparently - the most important “R” word - Reboot.

A very wise woman suggested to me yesterday, that maybe I need a big, fat, old-fashioned Ctrl + Alt +Delete. She didn’t mean the kind where you turn off your cell phone and sit by a beach for week. She meant the kind where you step away from the chaos, do some genuine soul searching and start doing real things to awaken your spirit. And she was right.

We move so quickly and spend so much time just trying to keep up our daily to-do lists. Even with all of the reminders beeping at us from our phones and popping up on our computer screens, sometimes it feels like we are never ahead of the game no matter how hard we try. But we are also addicted to it. Because we fear that if we slow down, or even stop, that something might suffer. And it usually does – usually we suffer. Even when we get the huge promotion, or sign-on that big client or achieve whatever it is we are working towards- sometimes it just doesn’t do the trick. There is still this void deep down in our guts, just screaming at us to be filled.

I’ve decided that there is no time like the present to take this wise woman’s sage advice. As I’m assessing the year and starting to jot down my 2013 resolutions, I already know that I’m supposed to go to the gym more, eat healthier, spend less and keep my house cleaner. But this year, instead of just asking myself what I can live up to in the New Year, I’m taking a different approach. This year I’m going to first figure out what is going to make me feel alive. What is going to jolt me out of my routine and pinch my insides? What is going to kick me out of my comfort zone? What will force me to grow? What will motivate me to get up every morning and want to fulfill my resolutions, rather than to do them just to check them off the list? What will inspire me to push aside the practicalities, responsibilities, obligations and excuses - to push beyond the limits I see in front of me without any feelings of guilt or regret –– to truly Live Fully in 2013?

Care to join me?

When Gifts Arrive in Unexpected Packages

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 19:54:00 +0000

Ever since we can remember, we were taught to wish, pray and dream about the things we really, really wanted. As kids, we just figured that if we blew out all of the birthday candles in one breath, or left the best cookies and milk for Santa, or prayed enough every night before bed – the gifts that we asked for would appear. And often times they did. We found them hidden in the basement or amongst the other gifts under the tree, and we knew what they were way before we tore off the wrapping paper. Even though we were pretty sure that all of the energies we put into wishing, praying, hoping and dreaming actually paid off, a teeny tiny part of us still kind of “expected” to see those packages all wrapped up with our names on them.

As we’ve grown older, no matter how pragmatic, realistic, or jaded we’ve become, we still do it. Even though we might not believe in Hanukkah Harry, birthday candle superstitions, or any type of higher power anymore, a part of us still wants to believe that if we put enough faith and thought into it, the gifts that we ask for will arrive, wrapped in their perfect packages with our names on them, just waiting to bring us all of the happiness we are looking for.

And sometimes they still do. But sometimes, they show up unexpectedly, in different size boxes than we predicted or maybe even months or years after we initially asked for them. They arrive at our doorsteps, out of the blue, with our names written on them in big bold letters – ready and waiting for us to open them and enjoy.

This summer, I’ve been reminded about and inspired by blessings in disguise, small things that come in big packages, big things that come in small packages and the good things that come to those who wait. When opportunity knocks, open the door. It may not look like anything you've asked for, but when it’s there on your front stoop, staring you in the face, don’t overlook it too quickly. It may just be the best gift you’ve ever received.

The Blessing and The Curse of Loyalty

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 16:53:00 +0000

Loyalty. It’s one of those untouchable, selfless, highest-on-the-list-of-importance values that everyone strives for in any relationship. Whether it be in the workplace, with a spouse, or within our circles of friends – we often use the word “loyal” to describe those we hold most precious to us. We throw around the word “loyalty” as a measurement to determine who believes in us, our ideas and our causes enough to be “all in” during the good times, bad times and every time in between. Loyal people don’t waiver; they are not fair-weathered fans. They are constants, they are unquestionably reliable, they are our best teammates/partners…and even our best publicists.

Loyalty is rare, so we cherish it, nurture it and reward it when we find it. And sometimes we feel so lucky to find loyalty, that it blinds us to other realities.

Last week, this lesson played itself out loud and clear as I watched 20+ years of workplace relationships come to an end. A family-owned company that put loyalty on such a pedestal, that it came back to bite them in the tuchas in the end. They wanted, so badly, for their long-time employees (who were almost like family members after all of these years) to be successful, that they turned the other way when they should’ve been holding them accountable. But the truth was …that no matter how many chances they were given to up their game and prove themselves, these employees just weren’t meeting expectations. Despite all of the history and relationships they had developed after so many years together, the owners had no other choice than to sever ties with them. Even though from a business perspective, it made sense – it still hit home with me on a deeper level. Because we’ve all been there. We’ve all wanted to believe in people who believe in us. And we’ve all wanted to give them as many chances as possible to prove that they really are what we think they can be.

But today, I am reminded that loyalty, as we’ve known it, just isn’t enough anymore. We are living in a time where people are forced to make tougher decisions than ever before - in order for companies to survive, and for people to thrive in a healthy, productive way. We’ve all stayed in situations and relationships longer than we should’ve because we want to honor loyalty. While it can be legitimately sad to watch these relationships come to an end, maybe I’ve come to realize that a true component of loyalty actually IS accountability, after all. Because when it’s all said and done - what you do is just as important as what you are.

Chasing Your Future

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:51:00 +0000

Admittedly, I’ve been a little MIA from the blogosphere recently. It’s not that I haven’t had anything good to share –that’s hardly the case in my world. But, every time I sat down to put my thoughts to the keyboard, my mind started racing in a million different directions…until today.

Today at the gym one of my gym-friends pulled me aside after class. I could tell that she wanted to “talk” (even though we were standing right smack in the middle of the weight-lifters and mat stretchers). I could see by the look on her face that she was unsettled about something. When I asked her what was wrong, she just looked at me and said, “I’m just not sure where I’m supposed to be. In work, life – everywhere.” I responded to her - without even thinking twice, “You are exactly where you are supposed to be.” And then it dawned on me.

I, like most of you, have areas in my life that I wish would change, evolve, improve…or maybe even disappear altogether. I’ve dedicated my life to helping others achieve their career and life ambitions, and now I’ve found myself at a similar crossroads – wishing that certain things in my life were different and feeling impatient that I can’t change them overnight. But, today, when listening to my gym-friend, it just came to me. I’ve been so pre-occupied with attaining my next big career goal and finding my next life-changing moment that I’ve disregarded where I am right now.

I’ve been laser-focused on running towards the pastures that look prettier and greener than my own, but have I actually been wishing away my present while chasing my future? Might I look back and be sorry one day that I didn’t appreciate all that was actually in front of me in this very moment? Could it be that I, too, am exactly where I’m supposed to be, but blinded by the fact that I’m wishing I were someplace else?

I think so.

Every day people come to me because they want to make a big change. Day in and day out, I coach them on how to move towards what will make them happier. But, the world moves so quickly now, and those conversations seem more and more frequent. I sometimes stop and wonder how often people take a breather to actually appreciate the here-and-now moments without feeling the pressure of getting ahead or the need to always have something better or more.

It’s true that goals, aspirations, plans and dreams are all essential to creating and living a fulfilling life. They give us something to work towards - a reason to get out of bed in the morning, an opportunity to take chances and an overall purpose. But, the layovers, detours, roadblocks and stops on the journey are where the real adventures, experiences and take-aways are. Even though sometimes we feel completely lost, frustrated, blindsided and unsure of what lies ahead, I’m (slowly) beginning to appreciate that this is what “living” is all about.

Recently, I watched the “You’re Not Special” commencement speech from Wellesley High School. If you haven’t seen it, I would definitely recommend it. I’ll leave you with one of his quotes from the speech that truly resonated with me and hope that it leaves you with something, too, as you chase your future.

"Like accolades ought to be, the fulfilled life is a consequence, a gratifying byproduct. It's what happens when you're thinking about more important things. Climb the mountain not to plant your flag, but to embrace the challenge, enjoy the air and behold the view. Climb it so that you can see the world, not so the world can see you. Go to Paris to be in Paris, not to cross it off your list and congratulate yourself for being worldly. Exercise free will and creative, independent thought not for the satisfactions they will bring you, but for the good they will do others, the rest of the 6.8 billion - and those who will follow them."

-David McCullough, High School English Teacher

The Talent Drought

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Thu, 17 May 2012 19:07:00 +0000

I’m sure that many of you are wondering where I might be going with this “forecast” when unemployment numbers are higher than we’ve ever seen in our lifetime. But, just as the great recession storm blew in with great force leaving many jobless with little warning, the tide has turned and a great talent drought is creeping up on us now. Some industries are already in the midst of it, while it will take time for others to really feel it. But, I can tell you this - the talent war is ON and your company better be prepared.

Have you noticed that it’s taking an extraordinary long time to fill that open position on your team? Were you bummed to find out that your “work best friend” (who recruited you to the company) was recruited to a competitor for a bigger and better opportunity because she didn’t get that promotion that was promised to her? Has your company interviewed some really stellar people to replace your manager who left last month, but hasn’t yet made an offer to any of them? Didn’t you think it was going to be really easy to hire a new admin, but even with all of the job board ads, nobody seems to be “right?” Or, have you been interviewing for the same job at a company for the past two months- just sitting, waiting for them to make a decision?

Many companies are rapidly growing again and their needs for talent are real. But many of them are still operating under the assumption that there are tons of people lined up outside their doors to work with them. I mean…there’s a bunch of talent out there, right? Yes, there are a lot of very talented people out there who are seeking new opportunities. But, while companies are eager to hire, they aren’t ready to hire just “anyone.” They want candidates who fit 100% of the job description and company culture from top to bottom – and so far they have had the luxury to wait it out until they find “the one.” But how long can this go on? Not much longer. The longer the roles stay vacant and the more dried-up the pipelines become, the more the companies suffer, both now and in the long-term.

My friends, we’ve entered a new era in talent acquisition. Companies and their employees can’t keep up with growing business on skeletal staffs anymore. Nor can they afford to lose or bypass top talent if they want to be competitive in the marketplace. Talent is the core of any organization – your company’s future depends heavily on the people you hire.

Here are a few things your company can do to weather the talent drought:

Be Flexible

Ideally you’re holding out for that candidate with a Marketing degree and two internships form top communications companies. But, what about the Psychology major who is an excellent writer that the team just loved? With a little bit of training, he could be up to speed in no-time. He may not be able to hit the ground running on day one, but if he has all of the makings of a star player, why pass him up? Once he comes up to speed, he could be just as golden as the person with the degree and internships.

Move Quickly

Timing is everything. If you drag your feet, the candidate you love will get swooped up by your competitor. If you found “the one,” make it happen. Why wait? It could be a long time before another “one” comes your way.

Invest

Be proactive. Budgets may still be a little tight, but if you meet a superstar who wants to work for you, make the investment! You’ll be happy you did. It’s much more effective to have the person at your fingertips to lead that project that will be coming in next month, rather than spending weeks or months trying to find one when the business is staring you in the face.

“I am convinced that nothing we do is more important than hiring and developing people. At the end of the day you bet on people, not on strategies.”

-Lawrence Bossidy, Former COO of GE & author

When Is "When?"

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Thu, 10 May 2012 16:39:00 +0000

“I’ll look for a new job when…”

“I’ll go on that vacation when…”

“I’ll go to the gym when…”

“I’ll start my own business when…”

Sound familiar? Yeah, to me, too. Perhaps it’s because I have a birthday coming up and I’m in the mode of assessing what I’ve done last year and what I want to do this year. But, lately, it seems like a lot of people around me are suffering from the “whens.”

Recently, I was coaching a 2011 college grad who reached out to me because he wanted nothing more than to get out of his parents' house in Cleveland to start his post-college adult life in Chicago. After a year of living at home following his Big Ten college experience, it was clearly time for him to flee the coop. Lucky for him, his aunt and uncle, who live in Chicago, offered him a place to stay (rent-free) until he got his feet off the ground in Chi-town. What a deal, right? So, what on earth was he still doing in Cleveland, you ask? When I asked him that question, he told me that he just couldn’t go, yet. He said he’d move when he felt like he had more “going on” in Chicago. What exactly did that mean? When I pressed him on it, he couldn’t really define it either.

We all have goals and aspirations we say we want to achieve, but how often do we come up with reasons about why we can’t do so right now? What stops us from turning our “whens” into “nows?”

Nobody can deny that resources are tighter than they ever have been. And it’s true that good jobs are harder to come by and bank accounts aren’t as cushioned as they once were. These days, it’s impossible to ignore that these obstacles are real. But, in many cases, fear is what really gets in the way of getting things off the ground. Fear of the unknown, fear of change, fear of failure, and even fear of success. Let’s be real, change can be scary and overwhelming. Intellectually, we may know what we want, but it feels way less scary and a lot less real if we put it out there on the horizon - just a little too far out of our reach.

So, what are you waiting for? Outside of logistics and resources, what else is preventing you from going after what you want NOW? Each time you put it off, the more time fades away.

Frankly speaking….if you really want to go on that vacation you’ve been saving up for, or go after that job that will take your career to the next level, or make that move to your favorite city, or start that company you’ve been dreaming about, pull out a piece of paper and a pen and start making a list of what you need to do to get the wheels in motion. It’s invigorating once you throw yourself into the here-and-now with your goals and start creating a plan to bring them to fruition. And you’ll see, once you commit yourself to making them happen and put the plan in action, the fear just starts to fade away. How do I know? Not only do I see these transformations and successes with my clients every day, I know all too well about all of this from my own personal and professional experiences, too.

This week, I challenge you to think about all the things that can happen in your life if you begin to turn your “whens” into “nows!”

Frankly, It’s Friday: Job Numbers Day

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Fri, 04 May 2012 15:20:00 +0000

It’s the first Friday of the month. For most, it’s just like any other Friday – focused on getting through one more day of the work week to enjoy a short, well-deserved break. For me, it’s another one of those Fridays where I wake up, glued to the news, in anticipation of what the economists are going to say this month about what I do for a living. Before I was a recruiter, I didn’t know one thing about unemployment rates. Everyone I knew had a job. Interviews were plentiful and companies were chomping at the bit to hire any smart, savvy, up-and-comer they could woo.

Yeah—those were the days.

And today? Today, I wait for my “breaking news” email alert to tell me how many jobs we’ve added and how many percentage points the unemployment rate rose or fell each month. It’s like I’m somehow personally tied to the wins and set-backs. But, then I go back into my office (okay- “open-environment cubicle”) for a reality check.

From month-to-month, the jobs reports fluctuate. Sometimes they are better than expected, sometimes worse. But, I can tell you, first-hand, companies ARE hiring. The processes might be taking a lot longer and employers might be a lot pickier, but every day we are busy here scrambling to find the right candidates for a variety searches.

So, for those of you who are out of work, just graduating, or currently working while looking for your next big opportunity – keep at it. It may not happen as smoothly or as quickly as it used to, but for someone who is in the hiring trenches daily, I’m here to remind you that your hard job-searching work will pay off. Stay the course. Go after what you want. Don’t give up.

Good things come to those who wait.

Job Dating

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Tue, 01 May 2012 14:56:00 +0000

Job Dating. Essentially, that’s what it is, isn’t it? As a recruiter, I hear all of the crazy and outrageous things that people do during the job search/interview process. While it all seems like common sense, you’d be surprised at the things people do to sabotage their candidacies for jobs. So, just like you read the Do’s and Don’ts of dating in Glamour and GQ, I’ve decided to break down the job search process in similar, relatable terms that I call… Job Dating.

Who Viewed My Profile?

Online job dating- a necessary evil. If you’re actively looking, you’ve gotta put yourself out there. When you apply online, sometimes you will get a response, sometimes you won’t – but you never know unless you try. A LinkedIn profile with a picture will always (or usually) get you more attention – a profile that isn’t filled out screams either lazy or that you have something to hide. Sometimes companies outside of your “search preferences” will email you. If you’re not interested, respectfully decline. If you are interested, get on it. Transition to phone or in-person ASAP – competition is fierce in cyberspace!

They Want To Meet Me!

Great news- you got the interview. This is your time to shine. That means- put your best foot forward. Dress the part. Bring copies of your resume – yes, I know you already emailed it to them, but it’s likely buried in an inbox somewhere. Research the company. Ask good questions. Don’t chew gum. Don’t put your iphone on the table during the interview because “you’re waiting for an important call.” Smile. Sit up in your chair and look like you’re engaged in the conversation, even if you’re not as into it as you thought you’d be. If you are into it, find out when you can see them again. Oh, and don’t talk about exes on the first meeting. Save the horror stories about your current/former/crazy/abusive bosses and colleagues for a much, MUCH later time.

They Like Me…I Think…

The first meeting was perfect; chemistry was there, it felt like it could be your “new home,” and you were at your all-time best. Don’t forget to send thank you notes! No, not by text - by email, please – with full words and complete sentences. They want you to come back for more interviews? Great! Make time to be available – I know you’re busy, but be careful of how much of the ‘hard to get” game you play here. You don’t want them to get the wrong idea. Also, this is the time for you to ask questions and gather information. What are your make or breaks? Can you see yourself working here in six months, a year…or even more? Oh, and just because they are asking you back for more and more interviews doesn’t mean that you’re the only one they are seeing. You still need to be on your game while they decide if you’re “the one.”

Will You Accept This Offer?

By now, you should have a pretty strong gut feeling if this is the job for you. They’ve wined and dined you, and you’ve met the “powers that be,” toured the place and done all of your due diligence. When they offer you the job you’ll be ready to say YES, right? If not, why? You’ve gotten this far, so what’s standing in your way of making the commitment? Remember why you were looking and what you were looking for that led you to this opportunity. If you want the job- accept it right away. If you don’t – tell them as soon as you know that, too. They are making a commitment to you and hoping you will make one to them. How you handle this delicate part of the process will speak volumes about you to the company. Oh, and if you need to negotiate any part of the offer, you should be the one to do it…not your mom, dad or your spouse – YOU.

Of course, nothing is ever cut-and-dry, but with competition so high in this job market, there is little room for error. Companies are seeking out the crème-de-la-crème. Keep it simple, go with your gut, and be honest and upfront—with yourself and the company. Whatever the outcome, be a mensch. How you handle yourself throughout the entire process is what they will remember most about you.

What words of wisdom can you share about your Job Dating experiences?

Frankly...It’s Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:10:00 +0000

TGIF, right? I don’t know about yours, but my week has been action-packed. I’m ready for the weekend. Here are some of my take-aways from the week.

1. Patience is a virtue.

Do you remember life before your iphone..or even before the Zach Morris mobile phone? Okay, maybe some of you are too young to even fathom the “olden days,” but back then…we waited. We had no choice. We sent resumes, love letters, thank-you notes and party invitations in the mail (you know—at the post office)…and we waited for a response. If we couldn’t connect with someone during office hours, while they were sitting at their desks, we had to wait until they were back and had time to return our calls. Today, in our ability to reach people anytime and anywhere, we expect that they will get back to us - anytime and from anywhere. Just because you see a green dot next to their name, it doesn’t mean they are avoiding you. Give companies time to respond to your online resumes and friends to respond to your texts. You don’t know what is going on in their worlds. Give them the benefit of the doubt and give yourself a break from the send/receive button. While we’ve come to expect instant gratification, patience is still a virtue. Have some.

2. “We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.” (Epictetus)

LISTEN – and I don’t mean just to yourself! I met someone this week who makes a living by consulting others, but interrupted me every time I was trying to answer one of his questions. I can’t imagine what he took away from our conversation. You learn a hell of a lot more when you close your mouth and open your ears.

3. “People are not prisoners of fate, but only prisoners of their own minds.” (FDR)

I talked to a number of smart, talented people this week who want to make career changes, but gave me a bunch of reasons about why they “can’t.” They don’t have this, they don’t have that, nobody would ever consider them…really—how do they know? They said they don’t really know, but they just assume so, and then they don’t even try. It’s amazing what can happen when we put limits on ourselves – and what can happen when we take them away.

4. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

Sometimes it seems so much easier stay home in your sweats – trust me, I know. This week I was juggling a lot on a little sleep. I had things to do and people to see - I had to be “on” and at my best. In the end, as much as I was tempted to stay in bed, I was really glad I did it all. I would have missed out on a lot if I hadn’t.

What did you learn this week?

Transformations

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:57:00 +0000

Over the weekend, I was at a coffee shop with a friend catching-up and doing some work when the man sitting beside us butted into our conversation. Now, I had secretly been observing him and listening to him talk to the other patrons all morning – but I was eavesdropping- not actually wanting to talk to him. Let’s just say he “beat to his own drum” - seemingly doing very important work at his table, pulling out newspapers and “materials” from his portable office that he carried around in shopping bags. Not to mention, imposing, and I mean imposing, himself upon the other customers as he touted around his book (clearly self-published in the 70’s - also pulled out from the shopping bag), handed out his business card, and trapped people, who were just looking to relax with a cup of coffee and a book, in belabored conversation about his professional successes and upcoming business plan. He was a “personal consultant” of sorts, preying on the Sunday morning coffee crowd to build his client roster.

As you can imagine, the last thing I wanted to do was engage him. But, I too became trapped – literally – in the corner. Once he found out what I did for a living – there was no escaping. I decided that I just had to surrender for a few minutes…just like everyone else did. I know what you’re thinking… “why didn’t you just put on your headphones or pretend that you were working?” Trust me, people, it just wasn’t that easy.

In any case, amidst his grandiose “presentation” to me, he actually hit on one thing that stuck with me: the distinction between change and transformation. Admittedly, I’ve been thinking about it since (though, I’d never tell him). The concept: we can move through life, setting/meeting goals that yield changes – each time getting us closer to our bigger goal. But do those changes transform us? Are we really calling upon all of our strengths, passions and talents to stretch beyond what we think is “in reach” to achieve our true ambitions?

Ironically, this was also in my inbox last night:

So, in the spirit of Monday, with a full week ahead and a clean slate, how far will you reach?

Ultimatums

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:59:00 +0000

A couple of months ago, I was working with a very senior-level candidate who was seeking her next big challenge. She had been with her company for more than three years, but over the past year and half, she’d found herself at a professional crossroads. She’d had many open and honest conversations with her managers about what she wanted/needed to ensure a fulfilling career ahead with them. But, as much they appeared to be on-board and supportive of her requests - they never delivered. So, it was clearly time for her to find a place where she could get what she’s been looking for. She was eager to find a role that would bring her closer to her ultimate career goals. Luckily - she had come to the right place.

The opportunity she had been dreaming about was at my fingertips. The more I listened to what she was looking for, the more I knew that her name was written all over it. And I was right. With each new thing she learned about the role and with each new person she met at the company, she was more and more sure that this was going to be her new home. She was so sure, that she called the company’s HR person directly, and in naive transparency, essentially begged for an offer. She told us that if an offer could be made- there wasn’t anything holding her back from accepting it. And within a few hours time, a fantastic offer was in her hands. It was a match made in heaven! Or so we thought.

Despite all of our best educating, vetting and coaching, 24 hours later, the candidate accepted a counteroffer. The same candidate who told us time and again, that she wanted to leave her company because they never were able to meet any of her requests. It’s amazing what an ultimatum can do. Fear and panic took hold of her employer, and all of the sudden mountains were moved for her. And although she had fallen out of love with them months before – all of the love came rushing back as they bent over backwards to keep her. How could she resist?

But, what happens when the high emotion from the ultimatum wears off and reality sets in? Does everyone really get what they wanted - or thought they wanted? Do things really change all that much? You might have more money, a new title...or even have an old boyfriend/girlfriend back. But when all of the glitter fades away, is it really gold?

Frankly speaking, it shouldn’t take ultimatums for us to know how much we’re worth in any relationship – professional or personal. When people and companies value us, we know it. When they don’t, we know that, too. That’s why we go looking for those who do. Ultimatums may seem powerful in the moment, but they rarely fill our voids in the long-term.

Most of us have been faced with or used ultimatums in our lives. Should it really take the threat of losing something (or someone) to motivate us or others to go to the ends of the earth to keep it? And if they decide to give it to us, should we take it?

Wherever You Go, There You Are

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:15:00 +0000

I just came back from a long weekend in New York - celebrating the holiday, spending quality time with family and taking in every last drop of energy from "The City" that I could. Anyone who knows me knows that I've spent most of my adult life grappling with the idea of moving to The Big Apple. Admittedly, sometimes I feel like I'm actually a New Yorker at heart – a bit of a fish out of water in the Midwest.

But, this time, while marveling at the posh new bars and restaurants, people having “important meetings” at cute independent neighborhood coffee shops, mobs of good looking men in suits grabbing lunch at corner bodegas, and celebrity sightings (i.e. Sarah Jessica Parker who was eating breakfast one room over from where I was having my coffee), I found that my grappling became overshadowed by a nagging thought that just wouldn’t leave me alone. Wherever you go, there you are.

It’s a small, but very wise piece of advice a former boss once shared with me - one that comes in handy quite often, especially as I help people (and obviously myself, too) navigate through career and life changes. In this case, the more time I spent with my fellow NYCers, the more it became clear to me that their fears, challenges, hopes and ambitions weren’t so different from mine, or anyone else’s I know. Would a move really be the answer to my prayers, or would I “wake up” one day in the city that never sleeps, realizing that I am still me – only now living in a shoebox apartment amongst thousands of strangers? You see, for some reason, we are programmed to think that the grass must be greener anyplace else than where we are. Is it? Sometimes, yes. But, not always.

When jobseekers come to me, I always spend a lot of time with them on two things: WHY they are looking to make a move and WHAT their ideal next job would be. I probe until they really define why they are moving away from where they are, and what they are expecting to get from something new. Sometimes the line can appear blurry between actually being ready for a change, and assuming that things will be a million times better someplace else after having a bad week, taking heat from a tough manager or dealing with a demanding client. Are they truly committed to taking on the ups and downs that come with a new role or company? Because if they are just looking for a quick fix, they may find themselves in a very lonely place…maybe wishing they hadn’t even moved at all.

So, as I’ve spent quality time reflecting on the “grass is always greener syndrome” I’m reminded that some of the voids we feel might be filled more easily than we think. Maybe all you need is a good heart-to-heart with your boss, a move to a new neighborhood, a new hobby (or reviving an old one) or even a stop at a different Starbucks en route to work each day. Frankly speaking, things aren’t always what they seem from the outside looking in, and there really is clarity in making a change when you’re at peace with what’s behind you and ready for the uncertain stuff life has to throw at you. Because it’s true…. wherever you go, there you are.

Are You Standing In Your Own Way?

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:10:00 +0000

Every day I talk to people who are contemplating significant changes in their lives. It might be a new job, an entirely new career or even a move to a brand new city (with a new job/new career, too, of course!). They tell me that they are ready and excited to embark on the journey that will lead them to their goal, so we start to discuss all of the different options, avenues and approaches that are available to them. But then the strangest thing happens..they begin to tell me all of the reasons their “something new” can’t happen.

Don’t get me wrong- while making any change can be motivating and energizing, it can also be hard work, draining and sometimes frightening. But so can standing in your own way. How often do we really, truly want something, but come up with a list of reasons about why we “just can’t” get it? Our perceptions, fears and assumptions sneak their way into our minds – creating a bunch of rationalizations, excuses and false realities about why it just can’t be. But what if it could? What if we are the ones who are actually preventing ourselves from forging ahead?

Well…move over and get out of your way!

What’s the worst that can happen? You have a new experience, face a fear, learn a great lesson or grow as a person? Or better yet – you surprise yourself, embrace the adventure and move closer toward fulfilling your life goals?

Usually, the things we want the most are the ones that seem the most overwhelming and challenging to attain. It’s a lot easier to stay with what we know and justify why the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is just too out of reach for us. But, in the wise words of Wayne Gretzky, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

Maybe next time, when the “I can’ts” start creeping up on you, make a list of the things that are holding you back. You might be surprised at what you see.

Change can definitely be scary and we are often our own worst enemies. But, we don’t get anywhere unless we seize the moment and go after the things that will catapult us forward.

“You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting,

So…get on your way!” - Dr. Seuss

The Separation of Life and Job

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:24:00 +0000

Teams are shorthanded. Budgets are limited. Clients are taking forever to make decisions. But, time is of the essence. Competition is high. And there is no room for error – anywhere. We have more and more resources at our fingertips that are supposed to make our lives more efficient, but everybody I talk to tells me they are working harder than ever before.

So often, when I ask my candidates why they are looking to make a job change, they tell me “I am looking for a work-life balance.” At one time, that answer was code for “I want a job where I can earn a big salary, get lots of vacation time, and leave at 5pm without a worry in my head.” But today, I think the answer translates more to “I want a job where I can earn a decent salary, take some of my allotted vacation time without feeling guilty, and leave for the day - maybe in time to see my kids before they go to sleep- even if it’s just a couple of nights a week.”

As I continue to talk to employers and job-seekers from coast-to-coast, one thing has become clear to me: many of them are feeling just plain burned-out. So many have been in survival mode, using every last bit of their adrenaline to push past the economic crisis to get to the light at the end of the tunnel…but the tunnel is feeling a bit longer than they thought it was.

We sleep with our smartphones, spend more hours at the office, and dedicate many nights and weekends glued to our laptops. In a time where jobs are coveted, employee performance is scrutinized and companies have become more willing to make “difficult decisions,” how do you enjoy your personal time without feeling like you should be writing a plan or reading that report?

Just do it.

Just as you sent that calendar request to your team for the meeting at 2pm on Wednesday, accept the one for dinner with friends for tomorrow night. And about that vacation you want to take next fall? Book the flight. You employer wooed you with extra vacation time – take it. You’ll be doing both of you a favor. Get out for lunch at least once a week – you do have a lunch hour, you know. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll be able to spend part of the weekend at Starbucks sans your laptop and file folders.

I recognize that many of you are shaking your heads while you’re reading this, and thinking “not in my company” or “much easier said, than done!” But, it’s almost impossible to be at your best without giving yourself a break. And sometimes we have to take it upon ourselves to remind our managers and mentees of this- because they need you to be at your best. These days, it may be up to you to advocate for yourself and work with your company to find realistic ways to create a better balance.

Remember, there will always be a lot to do and it will never be a good time. But, in most cases, barring major crises or unforeseen catastrophes, everyone and everything will be okay if you leave your phone in the other room for the night, go on that family vacation next summer or take next Friday off for a personal day. In fact, it might be just what you need to remind you of all the reasons you really do like your job.

Just Say Yes!

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:43:00 +0000

Last week, an article featured on LinkedIn, (via Business Insider) caught my attention -"22 Executives Share The Best Advice They Ever Received" As a professional who is always intrigued by the bits of wisdom that may help me or the executives I work with to be more successful, I was genuinely curious about what I could learn from these top business gurus. While the majority of them had helpful and interesting things to share, there was one piece of advice that really resonated with me. I've been thinking about it since I read the article.

"Find a way to say yes to things. Say yes to invitations to a new country, say yes to meet new friends, say yes to learn something new. Yes is how you get your first job, and your next job, and your spouse, and even your kids." -Eric Schmidt, Executive Chairman, Google

Why did this one stick with me? Because I think so many of us have gotten into the habit of finding reasons to say NO, that we need to be reminded of all of the magic that can happen when we find ways to say YES. Think about it. In many circumstances, it’s easier to say “no” to things - It's less work, sometimes it’s more convenient, and it's often the safer, less-risky choice. Today, many of us have more limited free time and decreased resources than ever before. We may be a bit fearful to put ourselves out there or jeopardize what we already have – making it a lot easier to scrutinize, justify and/or find reasons to maintain the status quo.

But, what might have happened if you would've gone the extra mile or made the time to say "yes" to that interview.. or to that set-up… or to that business meeting … or even to that event last Saturday night?

Since I read this last week, I’ve been thinking a lot about the ways our lives are enhanced and potentially changed when we say “yes.” All of the people we meet, opportunities we have, success and failures we experience, lessons we learn… all of these things keep us moving forward – professionally and personally. And that’s why this small piece of advice may have made the biggest difference in Eric Schmidt’s success.

I challenge you, too, to think about Eric Schmidt's advice and think about ways you can apply it to your life. Opportunity is everywhere - we just need to be open and willing to receive it.

How might your life change if you find more ways to say “yes?”

Breaking-Up With Your Boss

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa B. Frank) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 21:21:00 +0000

One of the hats I wear as a professional recruiter is that of a career coach. Over the years, I’ve spent many hours guiding candidates, peers and friends through all aspects of the career/job search process (and, boy, do I have stories…).

As we’ve seen in recent job reports, the job market is finally showing real signs of improvement and hiring is on the rise. Many who have been unemployed are finally landing new opportunities, and those who have been fortunate to stay employed during this rocky road are now also actively making job changes again.

Recently, one of my gainfully employed and very successful readers contacted to me for counsel about how to leave her job gracefully, without burning bridges with her boss.

A little background: this woman is a senior level professional who was recruited to her current firm less than a year ago from a larger, top-tier firm in the same industry. She made the move because she was very attracted to the new firm’s more boutique setting and thought that the smaller, family-like environment would alleviate some of the frustrations she was feeling in a larger, more corporate culture. But, that wasn’t the case - the move was not a good one for her. Not only has it not been a good culture fit, she has come to realize that she truly doesn’t like the work she’s doing anymore. To complicate things even more, when this firm hired this woman, they made a big financial investment in her because they expected this would be a long-term “relationship.” They even let go of other employees and transitioned their work to her. But, no matter what, at the end of the day- she just wasn’t happy. So, she did what any of us would do- she went looking for something new.

When she reached out to me, she was beyond excited to tell me all about the new job she accepted, but couldn’t ignore the pit in her stomach about breaking the news to her boss.

Frankly Speaking, having the break-up talk with your boss, no matter how much you love or hate him/her, is rarely an easy one to have. It’s anxiety-ridden any which way you look at it. In this particular case, it’s pretty likely this woman’s boss will be angry and might even lash out at her for leaving only months after they bent over backwards to bring her on board. How can she exit gracefully? Bring a resignation letter. Stick to the facts. Stay calm. Don’t get emotional. Be grateful for the opportunity you had with the company. Don’t use this as an opportunity to unleash all of the pent up anger or frustration that you’ve been keeping inside – no matter what he/she says to you. Let your boss know that you’ve given this a lot of thought and you’ve decided to leave the industry altogether. Remind your boss that you, too, intended for this to be a long-term relationship when you joined and you are very sorry that it didn’t work out. Be empathetic, be understanding, but stick to your guns. Most importantly, remember why you went looking for something new in the first place and keep your eye on the new opportunity that awaits you.

One more thing. Today, it’s more common than not for people to make multiple job changes in order to stay challenged and keep moving forward in their careers. Remember that your bosses have most likely been in your shoes. It may not seem like it when you’re “breaking-up” with them, but they too will come to their senses and realize that it was for the best – for you and for them.