I like giving credit where it’s due, and hand out the kudos for people trying their hand at something new.

Sharing your #job and #career aspirations though, is not something to be trifled with. It’s important that you get it right, the first time around - because you never know who might be looking at your profile (well, the folks at @LinkedIn do, as they are designing the search algorithms!).

Here we have the profile of an “Aspiring Software Engineering Student…..” - really? Is he aspiring to be a student? Or, is he aspiring to work in engineering? I think it is the latter.

As a hiring manager or decision-maker, it is not my job to interpret what a person is trying to say. Instead, the person looking for work ought to do that work for me. S/he needs to use the right language, understand the big picture, watch for typos and incorrect language. S/he has to show me that they’ve done the legwork to present themselves in the most positive possible light.

As a hiring manager / decision-maker, I’m looking for people with technical and #communication smarts, because I know that on-the-job success is attributable to both of these - often weighted more to soft skills because we work in teams.

So, when I see a profile like this, I wonder about the person’s attention to detail and overall seriousness, even though he might have the technical chops.

Words matter - particularly in @LinkedIn headlines - and they can’t be overestimated regarding their importance in creating a positive 1st impression.

It’s that time of year. #Thanksgiving.

A time to give thanks, to be grateful for what you have, and also to make peace with what you don’t have.

As you hurtle across the country to be with family and friends or just stay close to home, get ready for the questions about what you’re doing (or not) and plans for the future. You’ll probably pick a gift here and there, and attentive family members will be listening for what they can get you for the holidays.

It’s almost Black Friday after all, and just about every retailer out there is bombarding shoppers with irresistible deals until close of business New Year’s Eve.

How about a pair of new shoes?

Stylish socks? A power suit? Or, even a gift certificate for a visit to the hairdresser / barber shop?

But wait - there’s something unspoken.

How about a new job to go with your new shoes?

It makes sense - put your best foot forward. Reevaluate your current role / position. Is there enough challenge waiting for you - as you wear your brand new shoes? Are you making enough money, to match the snazzle-dazzle of your new footwear?

Can you see yourself differently?

I can. I’m already picturing you in a different light.

Standing tall. Walking proud. An attitude of gratitude - for year-end and beyond.

Time to dust off that resume. Network to the max during the holiday season. Package up your brand and explore your options.

You new shoes will lead the way.
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You'll shine, of that I'm sure. <smile>