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Noel Rozny
I think that a lot of career skills can come from living and dealing with college roommates: http://bit.ly/o9lWkS Is there a particular event or roommate who influenced you or taught you something you use daily in your professional life?
35 weeks ago from myFootpath
Becky Benishek, Chris Parker and Tatiana Christian recommended this
Jeremy Roper
Starting a blog about moving forward to/in a career if you lack a large professional network. Thoughts or topic suggestions? Want to share anything? http://outsidetheins.wordpress.com/
34 weeks ago from GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals
Hannah DeMilta:
Hey Jeremy -- are you looking for suggestions on how you would start to grow that network (in a new field) or ways to stand out and be successful ...MoreHey Jeremy -- are you looking for suggestions on how you would start to grow that network (in a new field) or ways to stand out and be successful without a network?
I think it comes down to a combo of both honestly.
33 weeks ago
I think it comes down to a combo of both honestly.
33 weeks ago
Jeremy Roper:
Good question. The thought of it came to mind primarily thinking of the latter, but the more I think about it, the more I really do think, as you ...MoreGood question. The thought of it came to mind primarily thinking of the latter, but the more I think about it, the more I really do think, as you say, it will be a combination of both in the end. Thanks for the feedback. Feel free to stop by and have a look if you haven't already.
33 weeks ago
33 weeks ago
Melinda McKee
Any advice on moving beyond "professional volunteer writer" status to landing paying gigs? I've written my share of pro bono marketing copy and guest blog posts (including to some national audiences); now trying to figure out how to actually monetize my skills. Any words of wisdom are appreciated!
40 weeks ago from Gen-Y Professional Bloggers, North Carolina Bloggers and Professional Writers and Editors1 more
You and Elisabeth Ericson recommended this
Mike Ambassador Bruny:
Melinda, solid advice above. I would also keep an eye out for folks who post in different forums asking for feedback on what they have written. ...MoreMelinda, solid advice above. I would also keep an eye out for folks who post in different forums asking for feedback on what they have written. It may be an opportunity for future biz. Do keep us posted on how it goes and when you get that first paid gig (it's quite a feeling).
39 weeks ago
39 weeks ago
Alyssa Martino:
Hi Melinda, Sorry this response is so late. But my advice is to create a professional looking website and gather testimonials from clients to ...MoreHi Melinda, Sorry this response is so late. But my advice is to create a professional looking website and gather testimonials from clients to feature on them -- even if your past gigs were pro bono, you don't have to advertise that and can gain new clients based on your excellent reviews from the past! :)
34 weeks ago
34 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
joined the groups Washington D.C., Book Shelf, Government and Public-Sector and Brazen Careerist's Top 50 Gen-Y Companies2 more
34 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
joined the group Interview Advice
57 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
What are your favorite sources for staying up to date with news and trends in marketing and social media? I read Mashable, the New York Times and Wall Street Journal marketing and media sections, a few Twitter feeds, and the blogs of several agencies I'm interested in working for (I'm a college senior). What else should I be following?
73 weeks ago from Generation Y Marketers, Web 2.0, New Media Marketing, PR & New Media and Social Media Marketers3 more
williams popoola:
My top three recommendations will be SEOmoz for general new media marketing; Jeremiah Owyang for social media and, BNET.
71 weeks ago
71 weeks ago
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Antoinette Williams
I got a dilemma here, I have an MBA, retired from the US Army. I been a recruiter in the Army and currently a private banker for a large bank. I have sent resume after resume to jobs that I know I qualify in both fields but I dont even get a response. I need advice and help on getting my foot in the door to get the interview. I would thought with my experience I would be a valuable asset to an organization. Thanks in advance for your responses.
Raquel Elle Bell:
@Antoinette - No offense taken - Just trouble shooting. If you are getting interviews but not getting the job there may be issues with the way you ...More@Antoinette - No offense taken - Just trouble shooting. If you are getting interviews but not getting the job there may be issues with the way you are showing up. There are small nuances that we all present when in situations that may be overwhelming that potential employers catch on to. I asked about the second language only because of your speech patterns when you were answering a deluge of comments. The technology question came from the .pdf comment... My understanding is that you are asking for help in finding ways to get the job. It's not only about the resume that just gets you in the door. It's the way we show up and present ourselves that seals the deal.
73 weeks ago
73 weeks ago
Dave Ellis:
You are absolutely right, Raquel.
"Aspects are within us. And he who appears most kingly... is king." - John Dryden
I always think about that ...MoreYou are absolutely right, Raquel.
"Aspects are within us. And he who appears most kingly... is king." - John Dryden
I always think about that quote when dressing for an interview.
73 weeks ago
"Aspects are within us. And he who appears most kingly... is king." - John Dryden
I always think about that ...MoreYou are absolutely right, Raquel.
"Aspects are within us. And he who appears most kingly... is king." - John Dryden
I always think about that quote when dressing for an interview.
73 weeks ago
Lea Marino
Not sure if this has already been discussed, but I find the personal messages set up here frustrating. Can you make it similar to new Twitter where you see the full correspondence on one page? If there's a long time between messages in a chain, it's easy to forget the specifics of the conversation ;)
Elisabeth Ericson recommended this
Ryan Healy:
Hi Lea, very good idea. We need to make some changes to the private messages if you have any other ideas, feel free to let us know!
73 weeks ago
73 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
joined the groups Music, Interactive Media and Marketing, Latest Social Media and Technology News, Board Gamers, Marketing Psychology and Problem Solving4 more
73 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
I'd love to see the profile editor become more streamlined, especially in the "work experience" section. Added my most recent summer internship and it appeared at the bottom of my profile; I can't move it to the top without re-copying (recreating from scratch) the rest of my the items. The ideal would be a dynamic page that let you reorder elements by clicking and dragging, but even the quick fix of automatically placing new items at the top of the work history would be a huge improvement.
Elisabeth Ericson:
...also, an edit function on posts to correct things like "my the items" would be fantastic.
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Ryan Healy:
Great ideas, Elisabeth. Fixing profiles is on our list of changes as soon as we can possibly get to it!
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Ryan Paugh
We did something really radical today and stopped featuring blog posts on the sidebar of Brazen. Instead, we're featuring trending discussion because all of the conversations you guys have is where the real value is for anybody trying to build their network. What do you think? Are you happy or sad? Anyone want to punch me in the neck? We want to know...
Ryan Healy, Ashley A. Reed, PHR, Karolyn Chowning and Robin Mills and 1 others recommended this
Nathan Sorrell:
Good job! This site is too much like a self-help book on infinite feedback. I want customers for my flooring business in the Denver Metropolitan ...MoreGood job! This site is too much like a self-help book on infinite feedback. I want customers for my flooring business in the Denver Metropolitan area! There, see how easy it is to state your business, and go on? So far, I haven't seen one single person in here who doesn't sound like a patient at a phychiatric clinic. For $60,000 a year I'll cut through the nonsense at your company like Genghis Khan raiding villages in China, if you want to hire me. Like what you hear? It's called "clarity", "sense of purpose", and "maturity", all of which seem to be lacking here. Just say what you mean, and mean what you say, that's all I ask.
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Nathan Sorrell:
Oops, I misspelled "Psychiatric", for a spelling Nazi like me that is a fate worse than death....:(
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Kiyomi
Suggestion: As a total Type A person, I'm sure others might enjoy this. I would LOVE some sort of "seal" or "official link" or "logo" for anyone who has ever had one of their blog pieces be featured on the main page of Brazen Careerist. This way, any "top" writers can have it seen on their Brazen profile, listed on their LinkedIn profile, or on their resume in an official recognized manner. Maybe featured blogs can be listed and easily accessible on our main Brazen profiles somehow.
Elisabeth Ericson recommended this
Robin Mills:
I love that idea! When a recent post of mine went out on one of the Brazen e-mails, I totally freaked out (in a good way) at work and told ...MoreI love that idea! When a recent post of mine went out on one of the Brazen e-mails, I totally freaked out (in a good way) at work and told everyone about the site. I would love a badge for my blog. :)
75 weeks ago
75 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman
My boyfriend is jealous that I can eat so much cheese. I just read that according to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, women who ate an ounce of full-fat cheese daily stayed slimmer then their not-so-cheese-friendly peers. How delicious! What's your favorite cheese? Right now, I've just been craving the basic Muenster. Perfect for my quesadillas!
94 weeks ago from Fit Freaks, I Love to Cook!, Brazen Foodies and Cheeseheads (Wisconsinites)2 more
Elysa Rice recommended this
L.J. Acker:
Fondue - mix of cheeses local to the Rhone-Alpes. We eat too much of it here in Annecy!
79 weeks ago
79 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
I'm two weeks from a small windfall that will wipe out my credit card debt ($1,600). With that and the deposit from my summer apartment, I'll still have about a grand to put away until I graduate from college next year. My only other debt is a few hundred in interest-free medical bills that I'm paying monthly, and student loans that won't accrue interest until graduation. Besides my 1% APY savings account, is there anything useful I can do with it for a year? I'm not used to having spare money.
Beth Dearborn:
Make sure the debit card transactions are free and that the places you normally would use them - - gocery, dept. store, etc. - - accept that ...MoreMake sure the debit card transactions are free and that the places you normally would use them - - gocery, dept. store, etc. - - accept that bank's debit card. Though most debit card transactions are handled like an ATM and cost nothing, there is a recent surge is banks considering those separately. It is unlikely there will be a debit card transaction fee or that a local grocery, clothing store, etc. won't accept the card, but it doesn't hurt to make sure. And though you think you have 15 debit transactions per month, it wouldn't hurt to look at past statements and your current spending pattern to make sure. If you see fewer than 15 most of the time, find out what the bank charges or if they reduce the interest earned.
If you discover a charge or interest reduction, it doesn't mean it isn't still a good deal. A little addition and subtraction will help you decide if the overall difference earns more than your current bank.
Another question to ask is "Are there other perks?" Does the local bank offer free lost card replacement and identity security at no charge? Do they have a fraud policy in case your card or information is stolen?
As with all things if you think it might be too good to be true, you need to take additional time to read the fine print. Once you have decided you can always make a different decision if it isn't what you expected.
Good Luck! I'm sure you will choose what is right for you!
91 weeks ago
If you discover a charge or interest reduction, it doesn't mean it isn't still a good deal. A little addition and subtraction will help you decide if the overall difference earns more than your current bank.
Another question to ask is "Are there other perks?" Does the local bank offer free lost card replacement and identity security at no charge? Do they have a fraud policy in case your card or information is stolen?
As with all things if you think it might be too good to be true, you need to take additional time to read the fine print. Once you have decided you can always make a different decision if it isn't what you expected.
Good Luck! I'm sure you will choose what is right for you!
91 weeks ago
Max Bottaro:
you can't really make a G go that far these days unfortunately... CD rates are crap right now. Nothing you can really do would justify the effort. ...Moreyou can't really make a G go that far these days unfortunately... CD rates are crap right now. Nothing you can really do would justify the effort. I would suggest waiting until you can get into a good mutual fund or a vested 401K before you start saving for retirement or a home. uhmmm penny stocks can have some pretty crazy returns, but the down side is you can get a huge return literally overnight!
81 weeks ago
81 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
How do you begin a cover letter? You need a compelling introduction to create a memorable first impression, but it's hard to write one that's professional but not stiff, sincere but not self-indulgent, interested but not sycophantic. Any tips for those of us just starting out?
86 weeks ago from Career Rocketeer, u30pro, Brazen Undergrads and Personal Branding2 more
Rebecca Thorman recommended this
Danielle Albright:
I appreciate this question because I need to brush up on my skills too. I definitely see why the focus should ultimately be on the company but I ...MoreI appreciate this question because I need to brush up on my skills too. I definitely see why the focus should ultimately be on the company but I also wonder how to get some form of a hook in there to reel in the reader to look further.
83 weeks ago
83 weeks ago
Timothy Johnson III:
I'd use this framework, which is discussed by J.T. O'Donnell on Careerealism Club. Use three paragraphs. The first one should address, "Your ...MoreI'd use this framework, which is discussed by J.T. O'Donnell on Careerealism Club. Use three paragraphs. The first one should address, "Your first experience with X Company/Product", the second should address "Why You're Impressed with X Company for X Reasons" and the last paragraph shoul explain "Why You're A Good Fit/Problems You'd Love to Solve". It works pretty nicely.
83 weeks ago
83 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman
The NY Times reports that most Americans are "Completely Satisfied" with their pay (http://nyti.ms/bbDKE3). At first, I was surprised by this, but then in thinking about my position, I am happy with my salary at the level of my current responsibilities. However, I would love to have MORE responsibilities and MORE money. What about you? Are you happy with your salary?
92 weeks ago from Salary - Negotiating & More, Personal Finance, I am Gen Y, Employee Benefits and JobSTART 1013 more
Elisabeth Ericson recommended this
Jamie Nacht Farrell:
@Ben - people can be happy w/ the money they make and complain about paying taxes b/c the 2 are the opposing forces / theories behind capitalism ...More@Ben - people can be happy w/ the money they make and complain about paying taxes b/c the 2 are the opposing forces / theories behind capitalism and socialism. People MAKING money for their jobs (output) is capitalistic. People paying taxes (taking care of other people with their money) is socialistic.
87 weeks ago
87 weeks ago
Kimberly Palmer:
I agree- more money and more responsibility would be ideal - but I already feel like I am operating at full speed- but more money doesn't seem to ...MoreI agree- more money and more responsibility would be ideal - but I already feel like I am operating at full speed- but more money doesn't seem to be an option in this recession.
84 weeks ago
84 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
What do you think about changing your last name when you get married? I can't believe people do it, actually. I mean, you have an established track record in the workplace by the time most people get married. Why undermine yourself by telling people to call you another name? I have had so much trouble with my own name changes (people googling the wrong name, for instance) I can't believe people bring this on themselves. the practice strikes me as antiquated.
Aiden Schade:
This conversation is particularly interesting to me, because a few years back, I actually changed my entire name; first, middle, and last. It had ...MoreThis conversation is particularly interesting to me, because a few years back, I actually changed my entire name; first, middle, and last. It had a lot to do with forging my own identity.
In a historical sense, surnames used to be a lot more descriptive of a person, which is why most surnames translate into medieval professions, locations, and traits.
89 weeks ago
In a historical sense, surnames used to be a lot more descriptive of a person, which is why most surnames translate into medieval professions, locations, and traits.
89 weeks ago
Kelly Seiler:
Does anyone know someone who added their husband's name as a middle name? I kinda like the idea, but it seems like it would ruin the flow of my ...MoreDoes anyone know someone who added their husband's name as a middle name? I kinda like the idea, but it seems like it would ruin the flow of my name.
85 weeks ago
85 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman
Do you find it annoying that job posts don't ever reveal the salary? And related, what are your biggest annoyances or frustrations in the job search?
89 weeks ago from JobSTART 101, Salary - Negotiating & More, Career Changers, Human Resources and Ask Penelope Trunk!3 more
Stephanie Springer, Linda A. Hamilton, Ben Donahower and Elisabeth Ericson and 1 others recommended this
Dr. Pepper:
I tend to not apply for any jobs that don't reveal a salary. "Salary commensurate with experience" means to me that they either don't know what ...MoreI tend to not apply for any jobs that don't reveal a salary. "Salary commensurate with experience" means to me that they either don't know what the heck they are doing (therefore they understand what the position/work should be) or they will never pay market value for the job. No sense in crafting a carefully crafted cover letter for the position if you think that they won't pay you as much as you (think that) are worth.
86 weeks ago
86 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson
I wish the "remember me" feature would last longer. I only access Brazen on my personal laptop, and having to sign in almost every time gets annoying.
Elisabeth Ericson
joined the groups Social Media Marketers, Brand Managers, The Modern Strategist, New Media Marketing, Generation Y Marketers and Salary - Negotiating & More4 more
86 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman
What alternative media sources or blogs do you read to get other views besides the mainstream media? I'm really looking for good commentary and editorial type reads... thanks in advance!
94 weeks ago from Social Media, Blogging Ideas, Journalism and Journalists and Political Bloggers2 more
Peter Gowen:
Better late than never, eh? ...
I've been curious about others' media interests, too, so thanks for the topic!
The ones I've settled on, over the ...MoreBetter late than never, eh? ...
I've been curious about others' media interests, too, so thanks for the topic!
The ones I've settled on, over the past couple years are:
http://www.democracynow.org/
http://www.therealnews.com/t2/
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/
86 weeks ago
I've been curious about others' media interests, too, so thanks for the topic!
The ones I've settled on, over the ...MoreBetter late than never, eh? ...
I've been curious about others' media interests, too, so thanks for the topic!
The ones I've settled on, over the past couple years are:
http://www.democracynow.org/
http://www.therealnews.com/t2/
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/
86 weeks ago
Patrick Pho:
For me it's not aggregation but reading the links of my twitter followers that hold difference views than my own.
86 weeks ago
86 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman
Sometimes, I don't want to go to work because of all the hub-bub of getting ready. I get tired of putting on make-up, blow-drying, finding something to wear each morning. And when I don't feel like I have any cute outfits left, all I want to do is work from home. I noticed that this week, I did good. I felt like I looked good each day, by mixing some older favorites in with my new clothes. But do you guys feel this way? How do you avoid it beyond just continually buying new clothes?
Will Deyamport, III, MSEd recommended this
Kelly Seiler:
I focus on keeping my hair low maintenance. I don't even own a blow dryer! The right hair cut makes a HUGE difference with no styling. My hair ...MoreI focus on keeping my hair low maintenance. I don't even own a blow dryer! The right hair cut makes a HUGE difference with no styling. My hair is naturally a bit wavy to a lot wavy depending on the length, layers, and cut. Also, I wash my hair every other day to keep it from drying out (unless I do a super sweaty workout). Another trick when washing is to focus on getting the shampoo to the roots and light on the ends.
Makeup wise I save the "real" makeup for going out. For work I mostly opt out. I keep a cover up stick that matches my skin tone for blemishes in my purse and some "lip shimmer". That's it for makeup for work. I usually put it on in the parking lot ;) I keep my eyebrows shaped to help pull things together - bonus: don't need to do this in the mornings!!
Clothing is definitely the hardest part. I have a major hourglass figure, so only certain styles are flattering. I have a very critical eye for patterns and color, so things must match. Although I don't agree with some of the "rules" like no brown belt with black pants. One brown item looks funky, but if you have several brown accessories (shoes, jewelry, belt) it is a nice coordinated look. I keep my closet organized by type of clothes (pants, button up shirts, prof shirts, casual shirts, skirts, sweaters, dresses) which helps with finding things. Also, I make sure everything on the hanger is facing the same way and keep the extra hangars out of the mix.
My biggest hurdle in the mornings: breakfast. If I eat carbs in the morning (cereal, bagel, muffin) I'm hungry all morning, but getting some protein requires either more planning ahead or spending time in the morning.
91 weeks ago
Makeup wise I save the "real" makeup for going out. For work I mostly opt out. I keep a cover up stick that matches my skin tone for blemishes in my purse and some "lip shimmer". That's it for makeup for work. I usually put it on in the parking lot ;) I keep my eyebrows shaped to help pull things together - bonus: don't need to do this in the mornings!!
Clothing is definitely the hardest part. I have a major hourglass figure, so only certain styles are flattering. I have a very critical eye for patterns and color, so things must match. Although I don't agree with some of the "rules" like no brown belt with black pants. One brown item looks funky, but if you have several brown accessories (shoes, jewelry, belt) it is a nice coordinated look. I keep my closet organized by type of clothes (pants, button up shirts, prof shirts, casual shirts, skirts, sweaters, dresses) which helps with finding things. Also, I make sure everything on the hanger is facing the same way and keep the extra hangars out of the mix.
My biggest hurdle in the mornings: breakfast. If I eat carbs in the morning (cereal, bagel, muffin) I'm hungry all morning, but getting some protein requires either more planning ahead or spending time in the morning.
91 weeks ago
Elisabeth Ericson:
Kelly, I've had similar issues with breakfast. What I've been doing lately is eat a slice of whole grain bread with cheese spread (Alouette or ...MoreKelly, I've had similar issues with breakfast. What I've been doing lately is eat a slice of whole grain bread with cheese spread (Alouette or similar, the garlic-herb kind) before I leave for work, then eat a yogurt cup (I like Liberté Mediterranean) while checking email at my desk. I tend to get bored with breakfasts after eating the same thing for a while, so who knows how long this will last, but at least it gets me to lunch without feeling too hungry.
91 weeks ago
91 weeks ago
Aria McLauchlan
What is the best way to approach a new contact about job opportunities, to get an engaged response? My networking as part of my job search has yielded a lot of contacts, suggested by friends, family, the guy who makes my coffee...! but I'm not sure how specific I should be in a first email. Is it more appropriate to send an email asking for help in any way they can, or should I be more specific about what I'm asking for and attach my CV straight away?
Rebecca Thorman:
I would tell them "You were mentioned to me by so and so in my job search, and I'd love to grab coffee/lunch/breakfast and learn more about you ...MoreI would tell them "You were mentioned to me by so and so in my job search, and I'd love to grab coffee/lunch/breakfast and learn more about you and your company. DO you have time on xyz?" Be specific, but don't tell everything in your email. Make sure you have a chance to meet with them to develop the relationship and see if it would be a good fit. In your meeting, ask a lot of questions, listen well and tell the person what you're looking for. Make sure you do less of the talking. Follow up with a thank you note and with anything else you promised (resume, etc.). Don't be afraid to ask for specific help once you've built a relationship.
90 weeks ago
90 weeks ago
Amy Ng:
It depends on what kind of company they work for, and how that company takes referrals. I work in HR, but at Citi I can't do anything with someone ...MoreIt depends on what kind of company they work for, and how that company takes referrals. I work in HR, but at Citi I can't do anything with someone else's resume. The most I can do is listen to the type of work they are looking for, and advise them on how to search for job openings on our careers website. I like Rebecca's advice, and would only add that you suggest a quick phone call OR a meeting (at their convenience). It seems less pushy and I know that's how I would prefer to start off with someone new.
90 weeks ago
90 weeks ago
Danielle Bullen
Hey Gen Y ladies, what are the top 3 questions about life and business that you's like to see addressed as topics in a magazine? I'm involved with a start-up online magazine for savvy, successful 20-35 year-old women and am testing potential article ideas to see what sparks people's interest. Many thanks!
Elisabeth Ericson and Melissa Breau recommended this
Christina Brown:
You should have some professional women tell what type of companies that they would love to work for in terms of their qualities and ...MoreYou should have some professional women tell what type of companies that they would love to work for in terms of their qualities and characteristics, not the name of the company per se. Gets the conversation going. Especially get young professional women who are unemployed or between jobs. I have been thinking of writing a blog post but haven't gotten all my thoughts through yet.
91 weeks ago
91 weeks ago
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