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Jim Parker
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31 weeks ago

 
Mona Abdel-Halim How many people use online resume builders vs. Word?

47 weeks ago from Resume Feedback

Kate Davids: Jim, would you share those resumes that are so awesome? Good exemplars are always useful.
34 weeks ago
Ben Donahower: I use Word to build my resume but I also have a number of other resumes floating out there created by different services, social resumes, etc.
34 weeks ago
 
Mehul Kar Need serious advice: I have a newsletter to teach tennis with a bunch of subscribers in high school. Apparently, these subscribers don't really check their email.. I'm tempted to switch the newsletter into a Facebook page and write the letters as notes. I lose exclusivity and it means I get fans who are not really fans. Which means conversion rate when I want to sell a product (tennis lessons) is lower than with a dedicated mailing list. What should I do?

60 weeks ago from Freelancing, Professional Writers and Editors, Social Media, Social Media Marketers and Brazen Bloggers3 more

Diane L: Not sure if you have decided on a contingent plan to approach this yet, but Jamie et al are right: more tools to get your name out there will not ...MoreNot sure if you have decided on a contingent plan to approach this yet, but Jamie et al are right: more tools to get your name out there will not hurt. I get that you want a "fight-club" feel to your group, that gets known by viral marketing. If you want to do that you have to be a true pro AND have something really hot and fresh to offer. Probably not something you can develop overnight unless you really have that level of expertise.

Your alternative method is to see all sources as your tool than a trip-up. You need to consider the medium and use it accordingly:
1) fb=large masses, frequent contact, less control. Letting your product go 'viral' and more out of control can be a good thing here. Reaches people you never could have otherwise, and it can be the litmus for how well your audience likes your product depending on how many 'like' your page. Check this source frequently to keep pulse of your company.
2) text (maybe)=more real-time notices, more personalized. Kind of like a limited pass to an private party, etc. Nice for some, annoying for others, matter of preference. Also note if they dont have text service.
3) email=where you have your content fully fleshed out and keep your current customers hooked. (fb is where you hook new ones)
Bottom line for u now seems to be, if people are really not reading your emails like you say, examine your content again. Layout is important too, but if you want to build an exclusive club where people are supposed to be clamouring to get in (isnt that the whole idea of exclusivity, demand>supply?), your content needs to be at that level too.

This is a v interesting problem. Good luck! Keep us updated.

51 weeks ago
Laura Scheppler: I agree with Roshan. Do an FB group. You can invite whomever you want and monitor things more closely. I have one that I have tied into my blog ...MoreI agree with Roshan. Do an FB group. You can invite whomever you want and monitor things more closely. I have one that I have tied into my blog and it makes things SOOOO much easier.
50 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker joined the group Ask A Coach

55 weeks ago

 
Amy Ng My new year's resolution is to get more active in social media to engage with people to help them find and land their next job. What is your resolution for 2011?

58 weeks ago from Citi

Shanda: Amy and Kalina, that is a wonderful resolution. Most people make resolutions for themselves but the two of you have chosen to help others. That's ...MoreAmy and Kalina, that is a wonderful resolution. Most people make resolutions for themselves but the two of you have chosen to help others. That's wonderful.
55 weeks ago
Ryan Jason Mendoza: @Amy, i completely agree. There is no running away from social media even if privacy issues abound. My new year's resolution is to start trusting ...More@Amy, i completely agree. There is no running away from social media even if privacy issues abound. My new year's resolution is to start trusting social media again to find and land my next job.
55 weeks ago
 
Alli Gerkman I keep hearing that young lawyers "don't like to network in person" because they're not showing up to events. I don't buy into it, but I wanted to ask you guys: Why do you choose to show up (or not) for an event or conference, legal or otherwise?

60 weeks ago from Legally Speaking

Scott Asai: To meet people. In these days of social media, meeting face to face still is the best way to do business. It's all about trust and that's earned ...MoreTo meet people. In these days of social media, meeting face to face still is the best way to do business. It's all about trust and that's earned in person. Conferences that give you the opportunity to meet others and start a conversation are worth it for that alone.
60 weeks ago
Bob Larson: Jeremy's post is the entire reason why I don't bother to attend many networking events (e.g., New Lawyer Happy Hours). I realize that networking ...MoreJeremy's post is the entire reason why I don't bother to attend many networking events (e.g., New Lawyer Happy Hours). I realize that networking is about expanding my network, and not explicitly about job seeking, but if that's really the case, then I can expand my network just as effectively at the bar on my own schedule.

Scott's post rolls into the second half of my reasoning. Given the dismal state of the legal job market, I'm not really expecting to find an employer that's hiring right now, even on the sly. Instead, I'd rather network with people who can become potential clients for my one-man solo shop. And those people aren't usually found at networking events for lawyers.

57 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker Several students have said they would like to start blogging in 2011 but don't know where to start. Since most universities don't effectively include blogging in their curriculum, it's difficult for students to find a role model or guide to start blogging their first dozen posts. Could you recommend any guides, blog posts, or tips for students interested in blogging but apprehensive about getting their first few published? I would welcome your suggestions. Thank you.

60 weeks ago from Blogging Ideas

Michelle Bizon: I just saw this great post from Grace Boyle (She's a Brazen member!) about starting to blog. It's worth checking out: MoreI just saw this great post from Grace Boyle (She's a Brazen member!) about starting to blog. It's worth checking out: http://smallhandsbigideas.com/blogging/what-i-wish-i-knew-when-i-started...
57 weeks ago
Shana Ross: If you're at all interested in the arts, Createquity is taking applications for their first writing fellows (they have a structured blogging ...MoreIf you're at all interested in the arts, Createquity is taking applications for their first writing fellows (they have a structured blogging fellowship program)
http://createquity.com/

57 weeks ago
 
Jamie Nacht Farrell Does it seem like everyone you work with is SLOW? Especially older generations? I've always been able to be more productive (without sacrificing quality) than 90% of my colleagues. I realized it's b/c my work style is unconventional. I have an idea or a task list or something in my head - I use technology (my BB or iphone) to write it down for later.I get more in the car, at dinner, etc. than I do in the office. Anyone else use new technology to be more productive? How? http://bit.ly/e1Tqcs

58 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!, Professional Development, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Entrepreneurs and I am Gen Y3 more

Sam Rye: @Jamie - interesting blog. I think you are embracing a world of technology which is dynamic and advancing all the time - making use of that to ...More@Jamie - interesting blog. I think you are embracing a world of technology which is dynamic and advancing all the time - making use of that to capture your creative times & record your ideas is admirable and something I will take on board.

http://www.ted.com/talks/jason_fried_why_work_doesn_t_happen_at_work.html is well worth a watch when it comes to understanding that offices are necessarily the productive places to be working - Jason Fried has got some interesting observations.

The world has changed, and technology has changed things from a strict 9-5 to something more malleable, more flexible, and hopefully - more interesting for us.

57 weeks ago
Jamie Nacht Farrell: Thanks Sam - BTW; I LOVE that video; I think Ryan Paugh posted it earlier this month.
57 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker I would like to hear your thoughts on posting resumes online. Does merely posting your resume increase your chances of being noticed by potential employers, or is your resume a helpful item to have associated with your online image? Has anyone had success stories posting their resume on this site, others, or their personal dotcom and been contacted about an opening? If so, please share your successes/strategies with the group. Thanks.

60 weeks ago from Resume Feedback

Gene Leshinsky: Post it everywhere.
58 weeks ago
Michael Dvorscak: My resume is posted in a variety of places including: University Career Center, State Job Sites, Social Networking Sites, and I created a personal ...MoreMy resume is posted in a variety of places including: University Career Center, State Job Sites, Social Networking Sites, and I created a personal site through Google to elaborate on my qualifications etc. It can be found at https://sites.google.com/site/michaeltdvorscak/home

It is not geared toward any job or industry, but general and very inclusive.

58 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker Why do some students keep their resume private while others share theirs on Linkedin or BrazenCareerist? A friend, professor or colleague could offer feedback that could mitigate the chances of your resume making its way to the trash. Students should be extremely proud of their academic and professional milestones and learn more than their peers' major and year in college. What advice would you give to students who are keeping their resumes a secret from others?

72 weeks ago from Resume Feedback

Danielle Albright: I could see why at times I would definitely want to hide my resume (mostly due to the "not good enough" feelings while being a student), but I ...MoreI could see why at times I would definitely want to hide my resume (mostly due to the "not good enough" feelings while being a student), but I also definitely see the benefits of getting out there and learning now rather than later! I would remind them that everyone starts out as a beginner and to learn by doing if they are just afraid of judgment.
72 weeks ago
Gene Leshinsky: Maybe these students don't want to be found?
58 weeks ago
 
Ryan Paugh Do you do any good deeds over The Holidays that you normally wouldn't do? I've done things ranging from Toys for Tots to making Thanksgiving dinner for the Coast Guard. I'm realizing that I haven't made much time this holiday season to do something nice for people that I don't know. I'm feeling kind of selfish ... Maybe you guys can help me think of some ideas.

58 weeks ago from Community Karma

Ryan Paugh: That's a great idea Vickie, and it makes sense that more charities need help in January after the Holidays have ended. I'm going to figure out ...MoreThat's a great idea Vickie, and it makes sense that more charities need help in January after the Holidays have ended. I'm going to figure out something good to do then. I love the idea of doing something related to animals since I just adopted a 3-year-old English Bulldog.
58 weeks ago
Patrick Pho: At my old office we went on shopping trips to buy toys to donate to those who needed them. Our CEO would pay for all the toys- we just had to pick ...MoreAt my old office we went on shopping trips to buy toys to donate to those who needed them. Our CEO would pay for all the toys- we just had to pick them out and pack the trucks.

Check out this video of a past trip: http://youtu.be/cUznZ0GkN58

58 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker Please revise email notification layout. Currently, we see: http://i51.tinypic.com/2dj8ftl.jpg . I don't like this because the meat of the email is down quite far. I suggest moving it to the first possible point in the email: Group name, subject, post... subject, post... repeat. If I read it on my smartphone, I have to scroll quite a bit to get to what I want to read: the subject and the post. This is a way to possibly revise the layout: http://i54.tinypic.com/2dihagn.jpg .

58 weeks ago from Brazen Community Feedback

Jim Parker: Thank you Ryan. Thank you development team! It looks like you have revised the layout already. Keep up the great work Team Brazen!
58 weeks ago
Ryan Paugh: Thanks Jim!
58 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker Would it be possible to add another line break between someone's hyperlinked name and the hyperlink for "Remove" on the Favorites page? http://www.brazencareerist.com/profile/your-username-here/favorites?page=1 If you're not 100% careful to click their name, you will remove an important connection without confirmation (and the name and photo disappear via ajax too).

59 weeks ago from Brazen Community Feedback

 
Jim Parker joined the group Community Karma

59 weeks ago

 
Ruth A. Harper I just started my blog a few weeks ago and am working to drive traffic. I'd love any tips or ideas about how to do this. I share links on Twitter, Facebook, etc., and I also am trying to use keywords based on Google, but haven't gotten too much yet. Here's the link: http://www.justruthings.com

60 weeks ago from Blogging Ideas, Gen-Y Professional Bloggers, Wordpress Bloggers, Journalism and Journalists and Personal Branding3 more

Bayu Amus: Visit other blogs in your niche and get involved in the discussion; it's about building connection not just backlink :). Lots of quality content ...MoreVisit other blogs in your niche and get involved in the discussion; it's about building connection not just backlink :). Lots of quality content will also get you recognized faster.
60 weeks ago
Deborah Sullivan: ❤ Build your network to serve you.
Google platform is user friendly
and will get you in with Google.
Right where you want to be!
~Much
love ...More
❤ Build your network to serve you.
Google platform is user friendly
and will get you in with Google.
Right where you want to be!
~Much
love & light ~Debbie:)
http://www.google.com/profiles/montanadreamaker

60 weeks ago
 
Mehul Kar I want to add/organize a music element to my personal brand because music is a big part of my life and lifestyle. What services would you recommend to build this? A vanity url (service.com/username) is preferred. And connectivity to music on my harddrive via iTunes is preferred. So far last.fm fits all these. I'm wondering if you know of any other ones?

60 weeks ago from Personal Branding, Web 2.0, Social Media, Local Music and Social Media News & Tips3 more

Jim Parker: I recommend PureVolume.com. I met it's founder a few years ago and I've been impressed with its ease of use, bandwidth, customization, and ...MoreI recommend PureVolume.com. I met it's founder a few years ago and I've been impressed with its ease of use, bandwidth, customization, and selection of music.
60 weeks ago
Mehul Kar: I went with last.fm. Especially since it will import my listening habits and build a profile from that, instead of me having to do any work.
60 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker "You're overqualified." A sizable number of people applying for jobs have heard recruiters or potential employers say that to their face. Is this another way of saying you didn't get the job, is it factually correct, or an opportunity for you to adjust the conversation with the recruiter? What are your thoughts? If you have an example of a comment that caught you off guard (so others can be prepared) or how you responded and had a positive response, please share it with the group. Thanks.

60 weeks ago from Recruiters Unite!

Jessica Bahr: I've been told I was overqualified before. I had a few friends at the company and they clarified that the hiring manager thought I would be a ...MoreI've been told I was overqualified before. I had a few friends at the company and they clarified that the hiring manager thought I would be a threat to his job.

On the other side of the recruitment table, if you have an applicant who is overqualified for the position they may find the work to be uninteresting or mundane and not be satisfied in the position. Would a former CEO find working as cashier challenging and fulfilling? Probably not.

60 weeks ago
Bee: "You're overqualified" is used in the HR community as a "nice way" of telling you they don't have the $ they think you deserve to be paid and this ...More"You're overqualified" is used in the HR community as a "nice way" of telling you they don't have the $ they think you deserve to be paid and this is their way out. They forsee that you (as overqualified) would be bored with the job soon and leave, taking with you their valuable training. They are not playing hard to get. In Recruiter world this means the recruiter isn't really doing their job right. In Recruiter/Job Headhunter World it is their ultimate goal to get people into jobs and get excellent people into excellent jobs. Excellent recruiters know that skills can be transfered, skills can be taught but achievement, past history or successes and attitude can not be taught. They want people in jobs, and so do the employers who trust them to do the job. I used to get that ALOT. I had international experience, a job that travelled a lot, and a shiney new masters degree. And I wanted to move to a smaller town to be closer to friends and family. It was really rude at first, then I learned from an HR friend what "you're overqualified" means in HR lingo. I'd take it up a notch. And ask to arrange a meeting with the manager (not just HR) and have an informational interview. Managers have power even HR can't touch. And then sell yourself to that Manager. Write a new cover letter stating why you may be overqualified, but that you are perfectly qualified. You dis-arm them with rationality. What they see as "Too quaified" you then (at the second meeting) spin in your favor. And charm them with why you love their company and why this job is your dream job and is your ideal. And if that doesn't happen and you really really want that job, woo the next level up. Go to corporate. Send a letter to the site, the HR mgr eho told you this, the Mgr who passed you over and then charm the next level up.
Its also good to remember that today 30 people are applying for unadvertised jobs and over 50 apps are likely coming in for EACH single advertised job. So you have to find a way to stand out.
Sometimes "You're overqualified is legit." You may exceed their hiring expectations, but today that can be seen as a risk factor. But if, like me, you really wanted an opportunity in a smaller town because of quality of life issues that does NOT read on an application and may not be heard by HR. But if you are passionate about using your skills and talents -- you almost have to date the company you want to hire you. Be a stand out. They want to see WHY you want to work for them, not just that you (like dozens of others have a nice list of accomplishments under your name). Why you? Why this job? HR is afraid that great skills mean extra $$, but its up to you to show them that its not about the $$ (I know I know) but about loyalty to their company and that you want to be there long term. They know they can train anyone. But its tough out there. And rejection smarts. Actors are told they are a dime a dozen and they show up for "cattle calls." That same is now happening at "real jobs." And sometimes you will just never know the real reason why you are turned down. But if you want a job, go past the recruiter. Establish a relationship with management.
Think of it this way:
Would you rather have a job where TrumpHR pciked you out of a pile of people, or would you rather invest the time and energy to create a first name basis with Mr Trump himself and get a job that way?
The relationship building, it is the new hiring process.
Gramma always said "Its not what you know, honey, its who you know." It was true in 1910, 1930, 1960 and even more so today.
Best of luck! There are job out there that LOVE if you are overqualified. They LOVE the assests and experiences and education you bring to that role. And if you are overqualified a lot -- consider becoming an entrepreneur with your skillset and get paid like the expert you are. Don't give up hope!! {Whew!}

60 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker What are your top 3 favorite personal branding sites for 2010? If it packs a wow, is informative and easy to use, please share it with the group. This is a great opportunity to showcase great examples of brands (even if it's yours) so others can improve theirs in 2011. I saw a few samples at http://bit.ly/awGGOM and http://bit.ly/1Wdjf4 but I'm confident Brazen users have some amazing brands that deserve attention too. Thanks!

60 weeks ago from Personal Branding

 
Jim Parker Doostang, Myworkster, Zumeo, etc... Are these "career" sites useful for finding candidates for open positions or are they more novelty? As recruiters, do you find the strongest candidates through any certain job search sites, college/university alumni sites, or do they apply directly through yours? Thanks.

60 weeks ago from Recruiters Unite!

 
Jim Parker Is it possible to remove individuals from the Network Roulette Dashboard? I've added some but would like to remove others from the list. Is this possible or are they permanent? Also, some of the people in the Dashboard are listed more than once for some reason.

60 weeks ago from Brazen Community Feedback

Photis Patriotis: Jim, we are currently working on this. The star rating system will also play a part in filtering the dashboard.
60 weeks ago
 
Jim Parker Ever had an interview where you're confident you will get the position but the recruiter tells you you're overqualified? http://www.brazencareerist.com/conversation/770400 Does that kill the conversation or are they playing hard to get?

60 weeks ago from We're Hiring

 
elizabeth I know I am crazy but does anyone ever feel self conscious sharing their web startup or idea for one to people they know? How does one get over it, because I know it is very absurd?

63 weeks ago from Web Startups

elizabeth: Wow! So many smart people in one place. Thanks so much for taking the time to reply, everyone. Noelle, you made an excellent point about ...MoreWow! So many smart people in one place. Thanks so much for taking the time to reply, everyone. Noelle, you made an excellent point about listening to people"s reactions. I think what I am really scared of is failing in front of an audience. But, I have to get over that, because it is really dumb. Again, thanks everyone.
61 weeks ago
Jim Parker: Great question. One thing I've learned from mentors is that your company is a brand and you should be extremely proud of it. Initially you might ...MoreGreat question. One thing I've learned from mentors is that your company is a brand and you should be extremely proud of it. Initially you might be apprehensive about it (or your elevator pitch might need revisions), but as you do your research and if things develop, you will be very proud of your venture.

Also, it may be your audience. During business competition boot camps in college, I had to have three pitches because there were three groups of people I had to pitch my service to: teammates, entrepreneurs and regular college students. Be aware that not everyone has to like your idea, but don't like naysayers bring your down. Keep at it!

61 weeks ago
 
Bonnie Jeffers Hi everyone. Do you have a good script you use when cold calling a candidate you sourced from CareerBuilder and such? I am not getting the rate of return phone calls I would like and wanted to see if anyone might have a pearl of widsom to share. Thanks!

61 weeks ago from Recruiters Unite!

Jamie Nacht Farrell: I've hired hundreds of people from "sales rep" to "VP" using careerbuilder, etc. and also been sourced numerous times from LinkedIn; I don't know ...MoreI've hired hundreds of people from "sales rep" to "VP" using careerbuilder, etc. and also been sourced numerous times from LinkedIn; I don't know if what I'm doing is "right", but its worked for me. First, remember that recruitng is like any other sales call; and Sales101 - BUILD RAPPORT. If you can build rapport in the first 30 seconds of conversation, act relaxed yet professional, etc. the person will likely stay on the phone with you.

I've built / managed hundreds of sales reps and I am the first to tell you - SCRIPTS are a bad thing. They make you sound robotic and fake - and most importantly EVERY PERSON is unique - therefore it is your responsibility to ascertain "who" you need to be on the phone to make them feel mort comfortable. Instead of a "script", why not try writing out a 'call flow' OR a list of 'objectives' to hit during the call. For example: 1) Intro - build rapport 2) Objective of call, etc. and then if you need to in the beginning, add a sentence below each to remind you HOW to obtain your objective.

61 weeks ago
Jim Parker: I'm with Ryan on the notion that researching the contact goes a long way. When I was the President of an organization in college, I was contacted ...MoreI'm with Ryan on the notion that researching the contact goes a long way. When I was the President of an organization in college, I was contacted by a number of companies who wanted to push their products on our students or thought I wanted something merely because I was in a certain organization. The ones who put forth a bit of effort to mention a tweet or blog post went a long way than someone who copied/pasted a message into my inbox.

Jamie's point of rapport being paramount is key. When the other person leads the conversation on the phone or via email, you can tell within the first two sentences if this is someone you want to continue speaking to. The right personality, choice of words, and motive are important.

61 weeks ago
 
Nathan Lustig I'm curious, what's your most important digital asset? For me, it's my blog, with my digital family photos a close second. I've spent over two years writing 170+ posts and I'd be really sad if I somehow lost it. What about you?

62 weeks ago from Internet Privacy Talk

Jim Parker: I hope you're able to export your blog or save your photos to a redundant backup service like Dropbox. Planning ahead is important so you don't ...MoreI hope you're able to export your blog or save your photos to a redundant backup service like Dropbox. Planning ahead is important so you don't look like one of those actors in a Mozy commercial.

My music library is an important digital asset to me and that I've spent years organizing and customizing it. I'm fortunate to have ample hard drive space and iPods to save it to just in case.

61 weeks ago
Favorite Quote
If you are unsure of a course of action, do not attempt it. Any mistakes you commit through audacity are easily corrected with more audacity. Everyone admires the bold; no one honors the timid.

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