You’ve probably been taught not to stereotype people based on race, religion or sex. But when you make a career or business decision, do you still make decisions based on stereotypes?

“Insurance sales reps must be gregarious.”

Hal, a successful insurance agent for many years, has developed a portfolio of loyal, happy clients. Hal can be described as an introvert. He rarely speaks unless spoken to, and then he speaks briefly and softly. His clients have learned that he’s a caring, dedicated agent who never misses a detail. Continue reading →

Q. Right after I accepted my new position, the manager who hired me quit. I now have a boss “Sam” who’s a classic bully. He has most of the office terrorized. Every question becomes a confrontation. Last week, he walked into the conference room as I was meeting with a customer and began berating me about a missing fax. Our Regional VP has asked us to be understanding because Sam has family and health problems. I’ve only been here two months. Should I begin looking for a new job? Continue reading →

If published statistics are accurate, employment agencies and search firms fill about 20% of all jobs in the US. Job boards fill anywhere between 2% and 8%. So how do the others get filled?

Networking consistently fills more jobs than any other method. Yet people often don’t know how to network well or only act in crisis (I need a job now!) Networking when you don’t need a job will help you cultivate relationships that will help you find work. Continue reading →

Don’t get discouraged! A “no” answer to any of the questions will identify an area for development — not a roadblock. I am available to help if you would like to discuss your options in greater detail.

(1) Do you offer a clear, unambiguous benefit that your target market can’t live without?

Ideally you can learn whether demand exists for your service. Otherwise, don’t dive in. Dip a toe into the water to see if it’s warm. Continue reading →

Over the years, I have identified two kinds of midlife career changers: Jumpers and Clingers.

Jumpers thrive on energy, enthusiasm and improbable luck. The last three times they leaped, a net appeared. They see no reason why the next jump should be any different.

Clingers thrive on careers that offer security, money and identity. When they outgrow their careers, or find themselves forced out, they feel lost. They can’t remember the last time they found themselves in this position. Continue reading →

Gone are the days of the bland, generic one-page resume. Employers these days are more impressed by a resume that is customized and they tend to give jobs to interviewees that have a bit of knowledge about the company.

By doing your research, you’re showing initiative, which impresses potential employers. It will also help you decide whether or not you would feel comfortable working for the company, and would fit in with others at the office and the overall atmosphere. Continue reading →

Q. I just finished a job interview. Everything went well. But I can’t get excited about the job. The people were nice but frankly, I got bored.

Should I withdraw my application or hang on to see what happens?

A. Let me share a secret. I love country music ­ especially the classics. Your question reminds me of Kenny Rogers’s big hit, The Gambler. I can’t quote even a line due to copyright laws, but you can Google the song. Know when to stay. Know when to put down your cards. And above all, recognize when it’s time to walk away and time to run. Continue reading →

For many Americans, an important component of the American Dream is the possibility of hard work turning into financial fortune. The career exploits of such self made magnates like Andrew Carnegie, Lee Iaccoca and Donald Trump are examples for many.

The idea of being self-employed appeals to many people who want the possibility of unlimited income, a flexible schedule and perhaps the opportunity to work from home. If you’re one of these people, having the proper training, especially in a growth industry, is very important. Consider these ten courses of study, if you want to be your own boss. Continue reading →

Some people reserve the word “vocation” for religious calling. Contemporary career guides encourage us to think of a “life purpose” that guides and gives meaning to a life, regardless of career. See, for example, Mark Albion’s book, Making a Life, Making a Living.

Many people speak of being “called” to a career. There is a sense of “inevitability,” that, “I was meant to do this.” Some say, “This feels right.” Continue reading →

The Bachelor is one of the many reality shows that have gripped the US television viewing audience.

Premise: A very eligible Bachelor (last season featured an NFL quarterback) stays in a mansion with several eligible young women. They seem to spend their days swimming, tanning, and speculating about the Bachelor’s intentions. They meet the Bachelor in one-to-one and group activities. Each week the Bachelor gives a rose to the women who will continue to compete, and two who do not receive a rose go home. (If you’re a more faithful viewer than I am, please email me with corrections!) Continue reading →