Anonymous member


Career development 2w
Hello,

This is my first time posting in this forum, but I wanted to ask for advice. My son will be graduating with a Computer Science degree with a focus on game design in December. Unfortunately, he was never able to land an internship, and he ended up having to be the Project Manager for the majority of his projects because other students failed to do their portion.

That being said, I... realize that the job market is tough for college graduates currently. He loves what he does, but he's getting pretty discouraged about any potential opportunities for employment. From what I understand, jobs in the field are based on your portfolio, not your resume.

His professor told him to consider going to graduate school. Im not sure that's the best option if he does more school, but still can't find a job. Especially with AI taking over the majority of that job market. It seems like a waste of time. I have encouraged him to reach out to HR and recruiters directly. Does anyone have any thoughtful advice on what he can do to find employment?  more
1   

  • Adam Kuczek

    52m

    Gaming market is brutal right now, not only for graduates but even for seasoned pros, as studios are being closed left and right. There is a lot of... small, indie ones, but they typically operate remotely or look for experienced players. My advice would be to have a really solid portfolio showing strong fundamentals + one really polished personal project. Don't rely on AI, but show he knows how to utilize it. more

  • Sape Quashie

    1w

    He should sign up for a LinkedIn account.

Load more...

Eliot Feldman
Career development 2w

How do you handle negative criticism in the workplace? Does it impact your performance in a positive or negative way?
9   

  • Adam Kuczek

    1h

    Depends if the one doing the critique has broader knowledge on the subject than I. If they know more, I would listen. If not, I wouldn't.

  • Marie Lauraine

    4d

    Hi 👋 I'm very impressed by your profile and personality. All the posts on your timeline are great, and I also appreciate your sense of humor here. I... don't usually write reviews, but I think I deserve such a compliment... I wish I could be your boyfriend. I've tried sending you a friend request many times, but they've all failed. Please send me a friend request so we can be good friends. Thank you. Stay safe and happy... more

Load more...

Fitsum Abera
Career development 1w
What do you think about Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
2   

  • Adam Kuczek

    1h

    Useful if you learn how to use it properly, combine various models, and incorporate into your pipeline. It keeps changing fast, though, so you have to... keep adapting.  more

  • Steward Tony Pacheco

    13
    5d

    Ask It For A Picture Of A Beetle? Wiil You Get Cars, Bugs, Or Rock Stars. Possibly a combination of all. Maybe pics of things we never knew as a... beetle.

    Its still Learning, Not Feeling. Its Analyzing, Not Choosing. Its Basically Garbage In Garbage Out With Information. As a human, We still have logic. Use It Dilligently but never give it your soul.     more

Load more...

Mila Penrose


Career development 16h
We’re a small company, and in the kitchen there’s always tea, coffee, sugar, and creamer. If you need office supplies, you can go to the storage room and take what you need.

But I’ve noticed that a coworker often leaves with a jar of coffee, a pack of sugar, or even a pack of printer paper in his backpack. Should I tell my boss about it, or is it none of my business?

Thanks for the... advice.

 more

  • Captain bulemu Ezra

    1h

    I think you should first get to that person before any other person and if does not listen to its when you will get to any other person be careful not... let yourself lose your intergrity  more

  • abdulkadir muhammad

    2h

    Talk to the guy first and try to convince him to stop

Load more...

David Cabot


Career development 1d
I wanted to ask your advice, is this normal practice or am I missing something? A couple of days ago I had an interview for a sales manager position. When we said goodbye, the HR manager told me they would get in touch with me.

Today they called and asked why I didn’t show up to work, because they had sent me a text message yesterday evening. I didn’t see it, of course. Now I’m wondering... whether I should even consider working for a company that handles things this way.

What do you think? Thanks.

 more
2   

  • Tumusiime Ezra

    3h

    You were there to be interviewed not to interview, go and work, otherwise, that HR has a job, you won't.

  • Matt Prine

    15h

    That seems like a bit of a red flag.

Load more...

Career development

 4h

From Microsoft to mailman: How struggling job seekers are explaining their part-time gigs -- or hiding them


They say it's uncertain whether employers will view their temporary gigs in a positive light.

Kevin Hannegan is proud of the string of part-time gigs he has taken on while looking for full-time work. He's just not sure they belong on his résumé.

Since being laid off from his director role at a publishing company in January 2024, Hannegan has driven for DoorDash, worked on the changeover crew at... the Lenovo Center in Raleigh -- helping convert the arena between concerts and sporting events -- and taken on odd jobs for friends, including fixing deck boards and replacing ceiling fans.

He said he asked several people in his life whether it's wise to include gigs like these on his résumé when applying for full-time roles in his field, and the feedback was roughly split. Half said he should, since it showed he was still working; the other half said listing roles that weren't full-time or relevant to his field probably wouldn't be helpful.

Regardless of what he includes, he knows employers will likely have questions about the past two years.

"Being unemployed from full-time work for this long will definitely require some explanation during an interview -- whether the information is on a résumé or not," said Hannegan, who's in his 50s.

Hannegan is one of several job seekers Business Insider has spoken with over the past year who have taken part-time jobs outside their field to earn income while continuing to search for work. Many said they've grappled with whether to include temporary roles on their applications -- fearing that a résumé gap could hurt their chances, but that listing a job significantly different from their desired role might do the same.

In a challenging job market, some candidates say even small résumé choices are worth agonizing over.

A San Francisco-based millennial has worked contract positions at Microsoft and Amazon in recent years, earning about $120,000 annually. When the latter ended in December 2023, he struggled to find another role.

At first, he wasn't interested in the job postings recruiters sent him that offered as little as $75,000 a year. But after a year of struggling to find work -- and relying on unemployment benefits and food stamps to stay afloat -- his perspective shifted.

"By the end of 2024, I would have loved to make $75,000," he said.

After a year of unemployment, he began applying for any gig he could find, and eventually secured work as a ghost tour guide for $30 an hour and a US Postal Service mail carrier for $24 hourly. He estimated that he'll earn about $55,000 this year across the two jobs.

While he hasn't stopped applying for communications roles, you won't find either of his current gigs on his résumé. He believes many companies are biased against candidates who are unemployed or working outside their field.

It's unclear how much job seekers stand to gain by leaving certain gigs off their applications. Priya Rathod, workplace trends editor at Indeed, said it's generally wise to include any work experience -- even if it's temporary or outside one's field -- and to highlight the skills gained from those roles.

"It's not a surprise to employers right now that a lot of people are struggling in the job market," she said, "And I think it shows initiative that you've continued to stay in the workforce in some capacity."

Hannegan said he considered adding his changeover crew job to his résumé because it's a unique role that might catch an employer's attention -- and signals that he's willing to do whatever it takes to support his family.

However, Hannegan isn't optimistic that tweaking his résumé would make a difference. He said he recently decided to pause his search for a full-time role and focus on part-time gigs.

"It's exhausting to put in the work and get no response," he said.

Some job seekers aren't just being selective about which gigs they include in applications -- they're also trying to avoid a résumé gap. The key, some say, is finding any relevant experience they can frame as their current role.

In addition to leaving his mailman and ghost tour gigs off his résumé, the San Francisco-based millennial lists his current employment as an independent communications consulting business. He said the business is barely active and brings in little income, but he includes it to avoid showing an employment gap -- and to maintain the appearance that he's still working in his field.

"I have to keep this charade up that my independent communications business is healthy and successful and that I'm not hustling as a letter carrier," he said.

Miles Bradley has been searching for work since losing his contract software engineering role at AT&T in 2022. He said he's the chief technology officer of a startup, but the company is still securing funding and isn't yet providing any income. Still, he keeps it on his résumé to signal that he remains active in the tech industry.

"The industry has become addicted to finding the 'Goldilocks' candidates," said Bradley, who's in his 50s and lives in New York. "They want to have somebody that exactly fits what they're looking for."

Lisa Rangel, CEO of Chameleon Resumes, an executive job search firm, said job seekers have good reason to keep a current position on their résumés -- and especially on their LinkedIn profiles. Some recruiters, she said, are more likely to search for candidates who are currently employed -- in part because they're perceived as a "safer" hire than someone who isn't working.

To improve their chances of being discovered, Rangel recommends job seekers add a current position to their LinkedIn profile if they're not formally employed. This could be a personal consulting or freelance role -- if they've done relevant work -- or a placeholder title such as "Seeking marketing manager role," with the "company" field reflecting their target industry.

"You need a 'current position' that outlines what you are doing during your unemployment period," Rangel said.

At a minimum, Indeed's Rathod recommends that job seekers address résumé gaps in their résumé and cover letters, as well as during interviews.

Juan Pelaez said he's been fortunate not to have an employment gap on his résumé, despite being laid off in 2023. That's because he's continued doing part-time work for his former employer while searching for full-time marketing and project management roles.

Pelaez, who's in his 40s, also has a side gig that he has debated including in his applications. To earn some income during his job search, he's worked as a background actor on a few films -- including "Happy Gilmore 2." He hasn't listed the acting work on his résumé, but said he's now reconsidering.

"Not having it on there hasn't yielded positive results, so maybe putting it in there would help," he said. more

Career development

 4h

Being likable can matter more than being good at your job


Likability matters most in roles requiring collaboration, but technical skills remain essential.

Survival for some tech workers could come down to something more than code quality or shipping speed: likability.

There is an increased focus in the industry on pleasing the boss as well as "upper upper management," said Soubhik Dawn, who has worked in tech for nearly two decades.

Of course, being... well-liked is important if you want to get ahead in any career, but it's become an especially relevant topic in tech as layoffs and AI transform the industry.

"There is a little bit of showmanship that is going on. That's what I'm hearing from my circle," said Dawn, founder of Upplai, which uses AI to help job seekers with résumés and cover letters.

Competence still matters, yet at a time when some tech companies are demanding more of workers, being well-liked can be the thing that keeps you in your job.

Being likable is a "more important skill than computer programming, or system design, or algorithms," said another tech worker who spoke to Business Insider on the condition of anonymity because his employer doesn't permit staffers to speak to the press.

Getting along well, especially with the higher-ups, has become "the most important skill to survive," he said.

It's a lesson that's taken him a little while to learn, he said. He once tried to take on too many tasks to try to please his boss and skip-level managers. That led to him falling behind. Instead, he said that he should have spent more time cultivating relationships with those in management.

Dawn, from Upplai, said he had seen likability at work take several forms. Over the years, he's watched as some colleagues seemed to prioritize hanging out with VPs or senior VPs and offered to add a bit of polish to a slide deck or run errands.

Those workers, Dawn said, could then go on to complete some small project and "get recognition like crazy."

In some cases, becoming likable in the eyes of the boss comes from simply getting a lot done or doing what you say you'll do -- and flagging any issues before they balloon into bigger problems.

"That kind of leads to likability," Dawn said. "Likability is more like dependability."

In the workplace and elsewhere, we often judge people first on warmth -- which includes traits like trustworthiness -- and only afterward on competence or skill, said Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist and former professor at Harvard Business School.

In moments of uncertainty, warmth dominates, she told Business Insider. Cuddy has researched perceptions of warmth versus competence in the workplace for more than two decades.

"What people are calling likability right now is actually a proxy for trustworthiness, and trust is historically low," she said.

Cuddy said that when people feel uncertain, they start to read each other differently. When trust is low, people tend to rely heavily on trust cues as the most effective way to assess someone, she said.

So, while being capable is still important, if your colleagues don't like you, it can hold you back. Your competence can even become a threat if you're not trustworthy, Cuddy said.

She said that the desire for trust is why "likability suddenly sounds more important than the technical skill."

It's less about whether your colleague wants to have a beer with you after work, Cuddy said. "It's about feeling safe," she said.

"Trust is the conduit of influence," Cuddy said. "You could have a million great ideas, but if you don't have a medium through which those ideas can travel, it doesn't matter."

Still, pure likability has its limits, said Tom Chi, who has worked at Google, Microsoft, and Yahoo, and who is a founding partner of At One Ventures, a Silicon Valley VC firm.

That's because, for many roles, there are "real, quantitative performance metrics" -- things like how many lines of code someone has checked in, he said.

"It's actually relatively straightforward to tell whether you're adding a lot to the team," Chi said.

The tech world has plenty of examples of the "brilliant jerk" -- that talented colleague who rubs others the wrong way, but gets away with it because of their skills or smarts.

"That's a deep part of tech culture," he said.

Where likability might play a more significant role, Chi said, is in roles such as product management or design, which center on coordinating with colleagues, building consensus, or working with customers. In those cases, he said, likability and friendliness tend to matter more, he said. Because amiable traits are ultimately demonstrations of competence.

"That's what merit looks like in that type of role," he said.

At the same time, Chi said, workers who focus too much on being likable are at risk.

"If one wanted to prioritize that over developing merit, then I think you're in for a bad ride," he said.

That hasn't deterred the anonymous coder.

"Does everyone like you?" he said. "That's how you survive in Big Tech right now." more

Career development

 5h

I lost my full-time job and had to drain my savings and take 2 service jobs to make ends meet. It taught me to lean on people.


Francis emphasizes self-worth, resilience, and the importance of community during unemployment.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Keijhon Francis, a 29-year-old communications specialist based in Brooklyn, NY. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Losing my job last year completely upended my sense of self. I'd never been let go before, and I panicked.

I'd... moved to New York for my job -- a communications associate role -- and didn't know how I'd continue to live my life without it.

I called a friend, and we agreed that after a few hours, I had to stop crying and accept what had happened.

Months later, I'd applied to over 100 jobs, and nothing was working. I withdrew my entire retirement savings just to make ends meet.

The journey taught me that if you're not open to people being there for you, they won't be. So open yourself up to it and let them help.

It was close to the holidays when I was let go, and hiring is usually slow during that time. I decided not to focus too much on my job search right away and to figure it out in the new year.

I started to go stir-crazy with all the time I suddenly had. I had a lot of thoughts going through my head about whether I was good enough or deserved certain levels of respect at work. It altered my self-perception and put me in a bad place mentally.

I was still applying to jobs, but also spent my time taking walks, enjoying New York during the holiday season, and talking to my friends as much as possible because that really helped me level out.

Once the new year arrived, I was home all day, sending in applications as if it were my full-time job.

I applied on LinkedIn and Indeed, and if I saw a job posting on Instagram, I'd send my résumé. I used AI to help tailor my applications, find roles I could apply for with my skill set, and optimize my LinkedIn profile.

By late spring, I realized I needed to be more strategic because I wasn't getting anywhere, and rejection after rejection was wearing on me. I started tailoring my applications heavily to each role and applied to around three suitable roles a day, versus 25 roles with the same generic résumé.

I saw a slight increase in responses after switching my strategy, but still nothing came through.

I went into my retirement account, which had about $10,000, and I withdrew the entire amount as a safety net for myself. I was also receiving about $500 a week in unemployment benefits until May.

In July, I was flat broke with nothing coming in and nothing to fall back on. That got rough. I realized that I needed any job as soon as possible and couldn't focus on my search on a full-time role anymore.

I got a job as a cashier at a local market in Brooklyn. A week later, I added a job as a host at a bar, which I still host at. Those two combined brought me back to being able to make it through the months financially. But I was feeling very negative internally and trying not to show it.

Through attending therapy and dedicating time to working on freelance gigs and mock projects to boost my portfolio, I realized my old role hadn't been the right fit for me and didn't reflect my worth.

Having so many people pray for me, check in, encourage, and uplift me made me realize that I'm loved and worthy of love. It made me feel less alone during one of the most critical periods of my life.

Through some of those really hard moments, when I didn't know how I would make rent or afford food, I'd think of the positives that came with this newfound free time. I was able to see my best friend of 17 years give birth to her first baby. My relationship with my father has grown immensely, which has been incredible.

It was really beautiful to form stronger bonds with those people, as well as gain a deeper understanding of who I am and what I need.

A friend that I used to work with messaged me one day and asked if I was still looking for a job because she knew someone leaving their role, and she thought I would be a great fit.

I immediately applied, and then I didn't hear from them for a couple of weeks. I went through the interview process, which was pretty long. However, I got the call in October that I had landed the job.

I couldn't even let her finish her statement before I started sobbing. It just felt like that chapter of my life was finally closed. It was everything I had been hoping, praying, and fighting for over the last year.

I've learned a great deal about myself and my priorities. When I lost my job, I was feeling so bad about myself because my identity was tied to my work performance in many ways.

I realized that I always wanted to bring my best self to a role, but I never want to lose myself in it again. That's something I'll take with me as I continue to move forward in life.

To anyone newly unemployed: Take it one day at a time. Use this time to figure out what truly makes you happy. Do what you need to do to ensure that your bills are paid and all the necessary things are taken care of, but let the people who love you be there for you.

Do you have a story to share about long-term unemployment? Contact this reporter, Agnes Applegate, at [email protected].

Read the original article on Business Insider more

Career development

 5h

I lost my job and had to drain my savings. It taught me to lean on people


Francis emphasizes self-worth, resilience, and the importance of community during unemployment.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Keijhon Francis, a 29-year-old communications specialist based in Brooklyn, NY. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Losing my job last year completely upended my sense of self. I'd never been let go before, and I panicked.

I'd... moved to New York for my job -- a communications associate role -- and didn't know how I'd continue to live my life without it.

I called a friend, and we agreed that after a few hours, I had to stop crying and accept what had happened.

Months later, I'd applied to over 100 jobs, and nothing was working. I withdrew my entire retirement savings just to make ends meet.

The journey taught me that if you're not open to people being there for you, they won't be. So open yourself up to it and let them help.

It was close to the holidays when I was let go, and hiring is usually slow during that time. I decided not to focus too much on my job search right away and to figure it out in the new year.

I started to go stir-crazy with all the time I suddenly had. I had a lot of thoughts going through my head about whether I was good enough or deserved certain levels of respect at work. It altered my self-perception and put me in a bad place mentally.

I was still applying to jobs, but also spent my time taking walks, enjoying New York during the holiday season, and talking to my friends as much as possible because that really helped me level out.

Once the new year arrived, I was home all day, sending in applications as if it were my full-time job.

I applied on LinkedIn and Indeed, and if I saw a job posting on Instagram, I'd send my résumé. I used AI to help tailor my applications, find roles I could apply for with my skill set, and optimize my LinkedIn profile.

By late spring, I realized I needed to be more strategic because I wasn't getting anywhere, and rejection after rejection was wearing on me. I started tailoring my applications heavily to each role and applied to around three suitable roles a day, versus 25 roles with the same generic résumé.

I saw a slight increase in responses after switching my strategy, but still nothing came through.

I went into my retirement account, which had about $10,000, and I withdrew the entire amount as a safety net for myself. I was also receiving about $500 a week in unemployment benefits until May.

In July, I was flat broke with nothing coming in and nothing to fall back on. That got rough. I realized that I needed any job as soon as possible and couldn't focus on my search on a full-time role anymore.

I got a job as a cashier at a local market in Brooklyn. A week later, I added a job as a host at a bar, which I still host at. Those two combined brought me back to being able to make it through the months financially. But I was feeling very negative internally and trying not to show it.

Through attending therapy and dedicating time to working on freelance gigs and mock projects to boost my portfolio, I realized my old role hadn't been the right fit for me and didn't reflect my worth.

Having so many people pray for me, check in, encourage, and uplift me made me realize that I'm loved and worthy of love. It made me feel less alone during one of the most critical periods of my life.

Through some of those really hard moments, when I didn't know how I would make rent or afford food, I'd think of the positives that came with this newfound free time. I was able to see my best friend of 17 years give birth to her first baby. My relationship with my father has grown immensely, which has been incredible.

It was really beautiful to form stronger bonds with those people, as well as gain a deeper understanding of who I am and what I need.

A friend that I used to work with messaged me one day and asked if I was still looking for a job because she knew someone leaving their role, and she thought I would be a great fit.

I immediately applied, and then I didn't hear from them for a couple of weeks. I went through the interview process, which was pretty long. However, I got the call in October that I had landed the job.

I couldn't even let her finish her statement before I started sobbing. It just felt like that chapter of my life was finally closed. It was everything I had been hoping, praying, and fighting for over the last year.

I've learned a great deal about myself and my priorities. When I lost my job, I was feeling so bad about myself because my identity was tied to my work performance in many ways.

I realized that I always wanted to bring my best self to a role, but I never want to lose myself in it again. That's something I'll take with me as I continue to move forward in life.

To anyone newly unemployed: Take it one day at a time. Use this time to figure out what truly makes you happy. Do what you need to do to ensure that your bills are paid and all the necessary things are taken care of, but let the people who love you be there for you. more

Vronwyn Su


Career development 1w
Yesterday I went to an interview for a junior economist position. They offered me to work for a month or two for free like an internship, and then, if a vacancy opens up, they might hire me.
Is this some kind of scam? The company seems respectable, but I don’t understand why they’re holding interviews if there isn’t an actual job available.
Would you agree to something like that?

11   

  • Steward Tony Pacheco

    10h

    You Should Have Gotten A Call From HR Or The Interviewing Manager With An Offer. Then If You Accept The Terms Of The Offer, A Start Date Could Be... Acknowledged By Both Sides. This Is “The Basics” That Can Be Done.

    How Does A Sales Manager Close A Deal Or Hire Without Proper Procedure?     more

  • Arikoj Jennifer

    2d

    If you are not busy take it up ,gain experience i was once offered such an opportunity i took it up and was hired a few months along the way.

    1
Load more...

Career development

 11h

The Future of Talent Is Inclusive: How Small Businesses Can Tap Untapped Potential Through Skills-Based Hiring - Young Upstarts


by Tracey Pennywell, co-founder and CEO of HBCU Heroes

Across the globe, small businesses are facing a common challenge: finding skilled talent in a rapidly changing workforce. Technology is advancing quickly, traditional degrees aren't keeping up, and hiring competition is intense. Yet many entrepreneurs overlook an abundant source of ready, capable talent -- individuals who gained skills... through nontraditional pathways, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, polytechnics in Singapore, apprenticeship programs in the United Kingdom, and skilling institutes across India.

Skills-based hiring -- evaluating candidates on what they can do rather than where they studied -- offers a powerful solution. It expands access, increases diversity of thought, and helps small businesses build agile, future-ready teams.

And entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to lead this shift.

Why Traditional Hiring Methods Hold Businesses Back

For years, pedigree-based hiring dominated company culture. Employers filtered candidates based on elite degrees, specific previous titles, or tightly networked referrals. Today, that approach is increasingly ineffective.

1. Degrees Don't Always Reflect Modern Skills.

Fast-moving fields like AI, cybersecurity, design, digital marketing, and analytics evolve far faster than traditional academic cycles. Many strong performers gain their skills through self-study, microcredentials, bootcamps, or hands-on experience rather than traditional degrees.

2. Pedigree Filters Reduce the Talent Pool.

Rigid degree requirements often exclude capable talent -- including many first-generation students and international learners who come through nontraditional education systems.

3. Small Businesses Need Adaptability Above All.

Startups and small teams benefit most from employees who can learn quickly, solve problems creatively, and wear multiple hats. These qualities don't always show up on traditional résumés.

If finding talent feels difficult, the problem may not be scarcity -- it may be a narrow hiring lens.

Why Skills-First Hiring Fuels Innovation

Companies that embrace skills-based hiring gain clear advantages.

1. Diverse Experiences Spark Better Ideas.

Teams that include graduates from HBCUs, Singaporean polytechnics, UK apprenticeships, and Indian skilling programs bring broader perspectives. Global research shows diverse teams consistently outperform homogeneous ones in creativity and problem-solving.

2. Practical Skills Reduce Ramp-Up Time.

Candidates who've demonstrated real-world capability often reach competency faster than those hired based primarily on academic pedigree.

3. Retention Strengthens.

Workers from nontraditional pathways often bring resilience, loyalty, and eagerness to grow -- traits invaluable to small businesses.

4. Untapped Talent Becomes Visible.

Gen Z, one of the most diverse and entrepreneurial generations worldwide, is redefining what "qualified" looks like. Skills-first processes allow employers to notice talent that traditional filters miss.

A Simple Blueprint for Small Businesses to Hire Inclusively

Even without HR teams or large budgets, entrepreneurs can adopt practical, skills-based hiring methods.

1. Write Job Descriptions Centered on Skills.

Replace degree or pedigree requirements with clear capability statements:

* "Able to manage and analyze social media campaigns."

* "Comfortable learning digital tools quickly."

* "Capable of solving customer challenges and documenting solutions."

This opens the door to diverse global talent.

2. Use Skill Tests Early.

Short practical tasks -- a micro-project, writing sample, problem scenario, or coding exercise -- reveal competence more accurately than résumés.

3. Broaden Your Recruiting Channels.

To build a more inclusive pipeline, look beyond traditional sources. Explore:

* Polytechnics and vocational schools

* Apprenticeship programs

* Online bootcamps and microlearning platforms

* Community colleges and technical institutes

* Student innovation labs

* Nonprofit and workforce-development partners

These pathways consistently produce creative, adaptable talent.

4. Interview for Learning Agility.

Questions that assess curiosity and growth mindset include:

* "Tell me about a skill you taught yourself."

* "Describe a time you solved a problem without formal training."

* "What new skill have you developed recently?"

Learning capacity is the most important predictor of success in fast-moving small businesses.

5. Support Continuous Upskilling.

You don't need a large budget to create a learning culture. Simple approaches include:

* Peer skill-sharing sessions

* Free online courses

* Rotational assignments

* Monthly "teach-back" presentations

* Corporate volunteering opportunities

Upskilling boosts morale, retention, and innovation.

Looking Ahead: Inclusive Hiring Is the Future of Work

Across every region, businesses are recognizing that talent is defined not by a diploma but by capability, determination, and continuous learning. Skills-based hiring allows entrepreneurs to access a wider, richer talent pool -- including individuals trained through nontraditional and globally diverse pathways.

Small businesses that embrace this shift won't just fill roles. They'll fuel innovation, strengthen communities, and build a workforce ready for the future.

Tracey Pennywell is the co-founder and CEO of HBCU Heroes, a national nonprofit transforming corporate volunteerism into measurable inclusion. A career coach, author, and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience, she partners with Fortune 500 companies to mentor and recruit diverse early-career talent through the HBCU Heroes Job & Mentorship Portal. Beyond the nonprofit, Tracey leads KAN Upskill, a career-readiness consultancy, and has authored two books on leadership and financial empowerment. more

Career development

 12h

Payroll Admin Skills-Based Resume


I want to give my current résumé a complete refresh so it presents me as a modern, results-driven Payroll Administrator. The goal is to shift the document from a traditional, job-by-job chronology to a skills-based format that quickly tells hiring managers I can handle everything a payroll desk throws at me. What I'll supply * My existing résumé in Word and PDF * Any extra employment details or... metrics you need once we get started What I need back * A clean, ATS-friendly résumé in both Word and PDF, reorganised around core payroll competencies rather than dates alone * A concise professional summary that positions me squarely for Payroll Administrator roles * Bullet points rewritten to spotlight measurable results, streamlined processes, accuracy, and compliance expertise * Contemporary formatting: balanced white space, clear section headings, modern fonts -- nothing overly graphic that might trip scanning software I'm happy to answer clarifying questions about achievements, software tools I use, or metrics you'd like to weave in. Once we're aligned, I'd like a first draft within three business days and one revision round to fine-tune the tone and layout. more

Career development

 14h

Your Guide to Planning and Navigating Your Career


We may earn a commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. For more information, please see our disclosure policy.

Last updated: November 26, 2025

By Mark Fiebert

Key Takeaways

* Career Direction: Clarifying your interests, skills, and long-term goals provides the foundation for intentional, informed career decisions that align with your... strengths.

* Strategic Planning: Building a structured plan helps you evaluate opportunities, anticipate challenges, and identify professional development steps that support long-term growth.

* Skill Development: Committing to continuous learning ensures you remain competitive, adaptable, and prepared for new responsibilities throughout your career journey.

* Professional Networking: Maintaining strong relationships expands your opportunities, improves visibility, and supports better decision-making as your career evolves.

* Regular Reflection: Reviewing your progress allows you to refine goals, adjust strategies, and ensure your career remains aligned with your personal and professional objectives.

Use a career planning guide to clarify goals, build skills, and make confident choices about your future. Take one step today toward roles that match your strengths #careerClick To Tweet

Understanding the Career Planning Process

A successful career does not unfold by accident; it develops through awareness, planning, and intentional decision-making. A strong career planning guide begins with clarifying what motivates you, what you value, and how you want your future to look. Whether you are just starting out or considering a significant transition, understanding the factors that shape your choices helps you navigate options with confidence and purpose.

Career planning is not a one-time event but a continuous process. As your goals, interests, and opportunities evolve, so should your approach. The foundation of every effective career plan is built on realistic self-assessment, trusted research, and the ability to adjust when needed. When you recognize career planning as an ongoing journey, you give yourself the flexibility and structure required to pursue meaningful growth.

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11/26/2025 06:01 am GMT

Defining Your Professional Goals

Clear, well-structured goals serve as the backbone of your career development strategy. Setting goals allows you to articulate what you want, understand why you want it, and map out the steps needed to achieve it. Practical goals are specific, measurable, and achievable, giving you direction while remaining flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances. This clarity accelerates progress and prevents aimless decision-making.

Begin by identifying your long-term vision, then break it down into shorter objectives that guide your daily actions and yearly decisions. Consider your preferred work environment, lifestyle needs, strengths, and motivations. When your goals align with your values and interests, your career path becomes far more sustainable and rewarding, ensuring you move toward positions that genuinely fit who you are.

Assessing Your Strengths and Interests

A key step in developing a strong career planning guide is understanding your strengths, skills, and interests. Self-assessment allows you to evaluate your existing capabilities and identify areas for improvement. This process helps highlight the roles and industries where you are most likely to thrive. It also provides confidence when discussing your qualifications with employers or planning the next steps in your professional development.

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To build a clearer picture, evaluate your technical skills, interpersonal strengths, and personal preferences. Reflect on past achievements and the types of tasks you naturally excel at. Tools such as strengths assessments, personality frameworks, and skill inventories can support this discovery process. When you understand the unique value you bring, your career decisions become more informed and strategic.

Creating a Structured Career Plan

Once you understand your capabilities and priorities, the next step is to create a structured plan outlining how you will achieve your career goals. A practical plan includes short-term, mid-term, and long-term objectives, each built around clear actions and timelines. This structure guides decision-making and helps you evaluate whether new opportunities support your broader career direction or move you off course.

An effective plan incorporates development milestones such as skill acquisition, project experience, certifications, and networking targets. It also includes checkpoints to evaluate progress and determine what adjustments may be necessary. By regularly reviewing your plan, you ensure it remains aligned with your goals and evolves with new insights, responsibilities, and opportunities.

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11/26/2025 09:01 am GMT

Developing the Right Skills

Skill development is central to long-term career success. The most successful professionals cultivate a mix of technical knowledge, communication abilities, leadership strengths, and adaptability. Your skill-building strategy should be grounded in both your goals and your industry's expectations. Staying proactive about acquiring new skills helps you remain competitive in a rapidly changing job market.

Identify the competencies required for the roles you want to pursue and evaluate how your current abilities compare. From there, create a development plan using courses, hands-on projects, mentorship, or certifications. High-quality resources, such as industry guides, professional associations, and reputable training programs, offer reliable pathways to expand your expertise and prepare for more advanced opportunities.

Building a Strong Professional Network

A vibrant network of professional connections plays a significant role in shaping your career journey. Networking exposes you to new opportunities, valuable insights, and diverse perspectives. Relationships with mentors, peers, and industry leaders can provide guidance that helps you navigate challenges, evaluate job options, and identify growth opportunities you might otherwise overlook.

Networking should be a long-term habit rather than a task you tackle only during job searches. Attend industry events, engage in online professional communities, and maintain relationships with colleagues from past roles. When you nurture genuine connections and contribute value to others, your network becomes a powerful asset throughout your career.

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11/25/2025 09:03 pm GMT

Navigating Career Transitions With Confidence

Career transitions are ordinary and often necessary for long-term growth. Whether you are switching industries, pursuing leadership roles, or seeking new challenges, transitions require preparation and thoughtful decision-making. A reliable career planning guide can help you evaluate options objectively and ensure your next steps support your personal and professional goals.

Before making a change, consider factors such as financial impact, training needs, market demand, and your long-term aspirations. Conduct research, speak with people who have made similar transitions, and map out a plan that supports your desired trajectory. With a clear strategy, career changes become opportunities for meaningful advancement rather than sources of uncertainty.

Further Guidance & Tools

* Career Exploration: Use My Next Move to explore roles, skills, and industry paths aligned with your strengths and long-term goals.

* Skill Development: Visit Coursera for high-quality courses that support technical and professional growth across a wide range of fields.

* Labor Trends: Review the BLS Occupational Outlook for reliable data on job growth, salary expectations, and emerging opportunities.

* Networking Tips: Explore Highly Effective Networking for practical advice on building strong, lasting professional relationships.

* Career Strategy: Check CareerOneStop for structured guidance and tools that support long-term career planning.

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11/26/2025 06:00 am GMT

Next Steps

* Set aside time this week to define three short-term and three long-term goals that align with your personal values and career aspirations.

* Identify the key skills required in your target industry and commit to completing one high-impact course or certification within the next 60 days.

* Reach out to at least two professionals in your network to gather insights or guidance related to your preferred career path or upcoming transition.

* Review your current resume and update it to reflect your most relevant experience, accomplishments, and future goals.

* Schedule a quarterly check-in to evaluate your progress, refine your objectives, and adjust your career plan as needed.

Final Words

Planning your career is an ongoing process that blends self-awareness, strategic action, and continuous learning. When you approach each stage with clarity and purpose, you gain the confidence and direction to build a meaningful, sustainable, and fulfilling professional path.

7 Steps of Your Career Ladder: How To Create Your Own Successful Career Path Like A Champion!

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11/26/2025 03:03 pm GMT

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Mark Fiebert

Mark Fiebert is a former finance executive who hired and managed dozens of professionals during his 30-plus-year career. He now shares expert job search, resume, and career advice on CareerAlley.com. more

Career development

 16h

How biasedalgorithm is shaping human choices


Study shows that once AI tilts a recommendation, most people follow its lead - revealing a hidden bias from machine to mindAt a time when artificial intelligence is playing a growing role in hiring decisions, new research suggests that humans working with these systems are more likely to go along with their biases than to counter them. The University of Washington study is among the first to... explore how AI influences human decision-making in the hiring process. Participants were asked to review résumés that had been scanned by large language models with varying degrees of bias built in. When asked to identify their preferred candidates, researchers said they "mirrored" the inequitable choices of the AI. In contrast, participants acting alone or in collaboration with an LLM that "exhibits no race-based preferences" assigned candidates of different races to roles at relatively equal rates.

The research raises important questions as companies increasingly integrate AI into their recruiting and hiring processes, with some simultaneously making deep cuts to human resources teams typically tasked with carrying out these screenings.

"A lot of regulations and recommendations for how to use AI systems in high-risk tasks like hiring say that you should be using human collaboration, that it's one of the most important ways to mitigate harms," said Kyra Wilson, a doctoral student at UW and the lead researcher. The findings show, "that's not really effective."

Such findings have troubling implications at a time when companies are "trying absolutely everything" when it comes to AI, "and in many cases they're making a lot of mistakes," said Herman Aguinis, professor of management at George Washington University School of Business. Many brands - including IBM, Workday and Recruit Holdings, parent company of the job sites Indeed and Glassdoor - are deploying AI while making deep cuts to human resources teams, he noted.

Workday declined to comment. IBM and Recruit did not immediately respond to a request for comment. That approach is especially risky considering that AI is like "a power tool", which is used most effectively by more experienced employees but also is "capable of causing lots of damage", said Aguinis, who is also a scholar with the Academy of Management.

"While an expert carpenter fabulously uses a power tool that's much faster and more accurate, if you give that to a beginner, they make mistakes and maybe cut a finger off," he said. "The same thing happens in talent management."

Lisa Simon, chief economist at Revelio Labs, said the study highlights the risk of AI reinforcing human bias in employment decisions instead of making recruiting and hiring processes more equitable. Recruiting "remains an intensely human set of tasks," she noted, for which reducing bias has always been a significant challenge.

"It's so easy for people to become biased; if there's reinforcement to go with gut instinct, it's sort of a snowball effect where it's easier to go with a biased decision if someone else supports it," Simon said.

The study builds on work the researchers published last year, which found that large language models powering resume-scanning programs overwhelmingly favoured "white-associated names" over others. Wilson wanted to extend the inquiry because she knew that in the real world, "people are interacting with the system and making those decisions in collaboration with the AI" rather than outsourcing the decision-making completely.

In the latest study, which the researchers presented last month at the AAAI/ACM Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and Society in Madrid, more than 520 participants worked with LLMs that researchers seeded with varying degrees of racial bias. They evaluated résumés from equally qualified candidates across 16 job categories, ranging from housekeeper to nurse to computer systems analyst.

Participants were given a job description and the names and AI-generated résumés of five candidates, which would include two White men and two who were either Asian, Black or Hispanic. A candidate's race could be ascertained by their names and certain résumé entries, such as involvement in identity-based employee affinity groups. A fifth "distractor" candidate of a randomly selected race (but different from the others) and lacking qualifications was included in each set to "obscure the purpose of the study".

Participants had four minutes to review the application materials and AI recommendations before selecting the three candidates they thought were most suitable for the given occupation, according to the study.

When picking candidates without input from AI, or when working with AI trained to be "neutral", participants chose White and non-White applicants at relatively equal rates, the study found. But when they teamed up with "moderately biased AI" participants, their choices tended to mirror the program's: if the model leaned toward non-White candidates, so did they. If the system preferred White applicants, humans followed suit.

The findings point to potential real-world consequences of AI-assisted hiring decisions, which many companies are exploring, Wilson warned.

"Bias can sometimes be hard to see in these systems," she said. "Especially when you're just making a single decision, you don't necessarily see how that will have broader effects when more decisions are stacked together."

When interacting with the most biased programmes, the human participants made slightly less biased decisions than the AI, the researchers found. Humans went along with AI's picks roughly 90 per cent of the time in these cases, which suggests that even when users do register bias in the systems, they don't do much to mitigate it. Sara Gutierrez, chief science officer at SHL, which offers human resources solutions and psychometric assessments to businesses, said the study is "a valuable illustration of how bias can spread when people are exposed to flawed AI recommendations."

Whenever "any kind of human subjective choices are made", there tends to be some bias at play, Gutierrez explained. While in some cases this is motivating companies to explore AI with the hope it can help "empirically move towards objectivity and fairness", along with speeding up their processes, the study illustrates that the opposite is also possible, she added.

"Efficiency gains you get from an AI tool or process mean nothing if that tool isn't reliable or fair," Gutierrez said. "Speed without accuracy is just going to get you to the wrong outcome faster." more

Career development

 21h

Eric Schmidt lashes out at ex-mistress after claims of rape and spying


Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt is embroiled in a vicious courtroom struggle with his ex, laid bare in court documents exclusively obtained by the Daily Mail.

Tech entrepreneur Michelle Ritter, 31, accused the 70-year-old billionaire of raping and assaulting her, spying on her naked using hidden cameras, and stealing her companies and ideas, in a scorched-earth court filing last week.

Schmidt has now... shot back in legal papers calling her a 'liar', saying she fabricated allegations that she previously denied under oath, to wriggle out of a confidential settlement over the companies they shared - and he claims he has texts to prove it.

Documents made public last Wednesday in a Los Angeles court laid bare tech entrepreneur Michelle Ritter's allegations of a twisted and manipulative abuser who shoved her, yelled in her face, sexually demeaned her in front of colleagues, and used his technological know-how to spy on her.

Ritter is accusing her former boyfriend and business partner Schmidt of alleged sexual battery and harassment, domestic violence, and violating computer hacking and wiretapping laws.

Schmidt's lawyer called the claims 'false and defamatory', 'fabricated' and 'pathetic'.

Ritter launched a lawsuit in September, but many of the filings were sealed or partially redacted.

Her lawyers have laid out her side of the whole ignoble story in a 70-page document filed last Wednesday.

Michelle Ritter's bombshell complaint against ex-lover Eric Schmidt laid bare shocking details of her abuse, rape, and surveillance claims

Ritter's resumé includes a bachelors from Johns Hopkins, a JD/MBA from Columbia University, and a startup she claims ownership of, valued at $161 million.

She says she met Schmidt through a business contact in September 2020, when the three of them had dinner and she pitched a company, StarX Networks, that allows fans to financially invest in athletes' performance.

At the time, she was a 26-year-old Columbia student and he was 65, married, and newly retired from Google where he had been CEO and Chairman, with a net worth of $48.3 billion.

Schmidt is still married to his wife of 45 years, Wendy Schmidt, 70. The two reportedly have an open relationship, and Eric has been previously linked to glamorous younger women including fashion designer Shoshanna Gruss, socialite Ulla Parker, former CNBC correspondent Kate Bohner, and former Olympic skater Alexandra Duisberg.

In her legal filing, Ritter claimed she rebuffed his initial romantic advances and he instead presented himself as a 'mentor and potential investor'.

'He jet-setted with her around the world, introduced her to diplomats and prominent industry figures,' her complaint said, adding that she eventually gave in to his 'unrelenting pursuit' of romance.

'Ritter only allowed herself to fall in love with Schmidt because he repeatedly assured her that his marriage was over and that he and his wife were separated,' the 31-year-old's legal filing said.

As they became close, she helped edit his book co-written with Henry Kissinger, he sought her advice on an appointment in the Biden administration, had her help draft his testimony to the Senate, and took her advice to buy the Washington Commanders NFL team, Ritter claimed.

Schmidt has been married to his wife of 45 years, Wendy, (pictured this month) with whom he has an open relationship

Schmidt was first reported to be dating Michelle Ritter, then a Columbia Law graduate in 2021. They are pictured leaving a start-studded party in Beverly Hills in 2023

They moved in together in 2021, planned to raise a family and he had Ritter retrieve her eggs, her legal filing said. He even bought her parents a home next to hers in LA.

He assured her his divorce from his wife Wendy was imminent, she claimed. In an email pictured in the legal complaint, sent May 6, 2022 with the subject 'Divorce', Schmidt allegedly wrote 'Should be inside 3 months'.

Schmidt and Ritter built a startup incubator together called Steel Perlot, she claimed, which launched companies including the $161 million payment network firm Keeta.

But their auspicious partnership soured when he began 'a pattern of coercive control and abuse', her legal filing said.

Schmidt told Ritter she needed to go to business meetings looking 'really hot and sexy', and pressured her to 'use prescription stimulants to lose weight', her complaint claimed - then he allegedly 'mocked' her for looking 'emaciated'.

Her legal complaint claimed the ex-Google CEO made sexual remarks about Ritter to colleagues, including: 'You should see her naked', asking for comments on how 'sexy' she looked, and saying when she misspoke, 'At least she's good looking'.

Then, while on a yacht around November 2021, Ritter claims Schmidt raped her.

'He followed me into a shower, slammed me against the wall, and forcibly raped me,' she wrote in a sworn declaration filed last Wednesday.

'I begged him to stop and cried out that he was hurting me, but he ignored my pleas.

'The next morning, Schmidt attempted to convince me that I enjoyed the assault.'

He also started having sex with her while she slept at Burning Man Festival in Nevada in August 2023, she claimed.

Ritter, who is 39 years Schmidt's junior, filed for a temporary restraining order against the 70-year-old late last year

The 31-year-old tech entrepreneur is seen posing with Ivanka Trump at a party

'I clearly told him 'no' and tried to get him to stop, but I had learned that attempting to resist physically would be futile and make things worse,' her declaration said.

She also accused him of unwanted voyeurism, and claimed he 'pressured me to participate in his sexual fetishes, despite my express refusals.'

'On multiple occasions, Schmidt surreptitiously photographed me without my consent while I was nude, including entering the bathroom to take photographs while I was showering,' her sworn statement said.

In the November 19 filing, Ritter also claimed Schmidt 'shoved me on multiple occasions, leaving me with bruises and scratches'.

'During arguments, he often intimidated me by cornering me, standing inches from my face and screaming at the top of his lungs,' she wrote.

She described one 'altercation' at their shared residence in New York when he allegedly shoved her into a desk.

Schmidt was also described as 'erratic' in her filing, claiming he 'undressed and exposed himself to the flight crew' of his private jet on one occasion, and transported marijuana on the plane.

Ritter said she finally split with Schmidt after photos emerged of him with a 22-year-old woman in early 2024.

In a May 2021 email included in the proposed complaint, Ritter discussed their plans to have her retrieve her eggs, to which he replied: 'Love you even more!!'

Schmidt assured Ritter his divorce from his wife was imminent, with a May 6, 2022 email with the subject 'Divorce', showing Schmidt allegedly wrote 'Should be inside 3 months'

BLACK FRIDAY SALE

Eric Schmidt's ex-mistress accuses former Google CEO of stalking and abuse

But he began 'cyberstalking' and surveilling her, Ritter's legal filing claimed.

She claimed he had installed spyware on her computer around November 2021, after the alleged rape, allowing him to view her texts, emails and documents.

'On various occasions, Ritter would be using her email account or Google Workspace and saw emails and documents being deleted or altered as if someone else were controlling her keystrokes,' her legal filing said.

She claimed the digital surveillance was not just limited to her.

While dating, Schmidt confessed to Ritter he had made a 'backdoor' to Google servers that allowed him 'to access anyone's Google account and private information', her legal complaint claimed

Ritter's attorneys believe 'Schmidt's misuse of his backdoor access to Google servers extended beyond Ritter and the Google employees he targeted,' the legal filing said.

She said documents with her forged signature were used to 'alter corporate rights and create a false paper trail', and texts she never wrote appeared in her phone conversations with Schmidt.

The Google billionaire invested a reported $100 million into Steel Perlot, though Ritter claimed in her legal filing that he also used accounting tricks to saddle the firm with other companies' debt.

Ritter was ultimately stripped of control of the companies she worked on with Schmidt and removed as CEO of another payment technology firm, Knox, her filing claimed.

In April 2024 Schmidt also locked Ritter out of their shared residence, leaving her belongings inside, according to her court claims.

Ritter says she met Schmidt through a business contact in September 2020, when the three of them had dinner and she pitched an idea for a company

Lawyers for Schmidt have called the claims 'false and defamatory', 'fabricated' and 'pathetic'

That summer, she found he had 'covertly installed cameras and listening devices in the Los Angeles residence he had acquired for her,' the complaint said.

Private investigators were caught tailing her elderly parents, she alleged, and when questioned by police they admitted to working for a 'billionaire's private security detail', Ritter's declaration said.

Her amended complaint accused Schmidt of breaking into a Tesla Ritter drove and taking her laptop while she dined at Nobu restaurant in Malibu on November 7, 2024.

Ritter alleged there is CCTV footage of the incident captured by the restaurant's cameras.

Ritter's shocking new allegations were written up in a proposed complaint, which her lawyer submitted publicly in court last Wednesday, asking the LA judge permission to officially file it as an amended complaint.

She and Schmidt have been in a private arbitration, after the two entered into a legal agreement to separate their business dealings after they split.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, a source close to Schmidt's legal team claimed the Google billionaire has been 'hamstrung' responding to her claims publicly due to a confidentiality clause in the agreement.

Ritter argues that a 2021 law against gagging claims of sex abuse in arbitration, applies to her.

In a fiery docket response today, Schmidt's lawyers said the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act 'only applies to disputes that arose after the arbitration agreement', and that Ritter does not qualify.

They accused her of 'compulsive lying' in the filing, adding that they have 'text messages conclusively disproving the claims' - though they did not reproduce those in the filing.

In his response this Wednesday, Schmidt claimed their dispute arose from 'Ritter's mismanagement of SPM', their company together, and that 'Ritter fabricated numerous false claims against Schmidt, including her fictional assault claims, in an attempt to gain negotiating leverage.'

His legal filing says her claims amount to an attempt to 'extort' the Google billionaire.

He claims that she already broke their agreement in December last year when she allegedly refused to move out of the Beverly Hills mansion he let her stay in, 'stole' $1.1 million of personal property, and 'leaked' information to the media.

Schmidt's lawyers also filed a declaration from his real estate manager attesting to the alleged $1.1 million 'missing' property from the house.

Ritter was originally told by Judge Michael Small in September to continue her dispute privately in the arbitration with Schmidt, and later put a stay on the public case.

Schmidt's public filings in the case are heavily redacted, but contain some public allegations against Ritter, including that she has gone through nine lawyers, and that one of them allegedly put a lien against her.

Ritter had already made some allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct in a Domestic Violence Restraining Order application last December, but 'rescinded, revoked, retracted, and denied' in a joint filing with Schmidt a week later.

She claims in her latest legal filing that she did so after pressure from his lawyers.

Patricia Glaser, Schmidt's attorney, told the Daily Mail that Ritter's filings last week are 'the latest desperate and destructive effort to publish false and defamatory statements - which are directly contradicted by her own words'.

Glaser added this is 'a final Hail Mary to evade the consequences of her own actions'.

'We are confident that we will prevail on both this specific legal issue and disproving these pathetic, false and defamatory statements,' she said. more

Anonymous member


Career development 3w
Hello! What would you do in my situation? Yesterday was my first day at a new job. I went through a long interview process and was super excited to get hired. But then I was totally shocked to see my ex working in the next department. For the record, I was the one who left him before our wedding.
How am I supposed to work next to him now?

7   

  • S Royster

    21h

    Great pitch for a Netflix rom-com. Take notes of what happens and get an agent

  • yateshia evans

    2w

    Act like u dont see em🤧

Load more...

Career development

 2w

Is It Okay to Wear Red Lipstick to an Interview? - Necole Bitchie


Red lipstick can be a powerful statement, but wearing it to a job interview is a decision that requires careful consideration. While a confident red lip can project poise and professionalism, it's crucial to weigh its impact against the specific company culture and the role you're seeking.

The Red Lip Risk-Reward Ratio: A Professional's Perspective

The short answer? It depends. Red lipstick in... an interview can be a calculated risk, one that can either enhance your presentation or detract from it. The key lies in understanding the nuances of workplace culture and the specific role's requirements. Imagine trying to wear a flamboyant red dress to a funeral, similar logic applies here.

In certain industries, like fashion, beauty, or creative agencies, a bold lip can signal that you're fashion-forward, confident, and possess a strong sense of personal style. It can showcase your attention to detail and your willingness to embrace a polished look. However, in more conservative industries like finance, law, or government, a vibrant red might be perceived as distracting, unprofessional, or even rebellious. It could inadvertently communicate a focus on appearance over competence, which is certainly not the message you want to send.

Ultimately, it comes down to making an informed decision. Researching the company culture through their website, social media, and even employee reviews can provide valuable insights. Observe the attire worn by employees in similar roles during virtual meetings or on LinkedIn profiles. If the overall aesthetic leans towards understated elegance, a subtler lip color might be a safer choice.

Remember, the interview is about showcasing your skills and qualifications. You want to ensure your appearance complements your message, not overshadows it. If you are unsure, erring on the side of caution is often the wisest approach.

Decoding the "Red Lip Interview Code": When to Rock It, When to Retire It

Before you commit to that ruby shade, ask yourself these questions:

* What is the company culture? (Creative vs. Corporate)

* What role are you applying for? (Client-facing vs. Back-end)

* What is your overall makeup look? (Balanced vs. Overdone)

* What is your personal comfort level? (Confident vs. Self-conscious)

A bold lip demands attention, so ensure you're comfortable handling that attention in a professional setting. If you find yourself constantly worrying about smudging or reapplying, it's likely to distract you during the interview and make you appear less poised.

Consider the shade of red as well. A classic, matte red can project sophistication, while a glossy, bright red might appear more youthful and playful. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone and aligns with the overall impression you want to convey. A deep burgundy or muted berry shade might be a suitable compromise if you are seeking the impact of a dark lip but want a more subdued effect.

The Importance of "The Complete Package"

Red lipstick, in essence, is just one piece of the puzzle. It needs to work seamlessly with your entire ensemble, including your outfit, hair, and other makeup. A simple, tailored outfit paired with a well-defined red lip can look incredibly chic, but a busy outfit and heavy makeup combined with a bright red lip can appear overwhelming.

Furthermore, ensure your makeup is flawless. A smudged lipstick or uneven application will instantly undermine your professional image. Practice applying your chosen lip color perfectly before the interview, and consider using a lip liner to prevent bleeding and enhance longevity.

FAQ: Demystifying Red Lipstick in the Interview Process

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances of wearing red lipstick to a job interview:

FAQ 1: Is it ever a definite "no" to wearing red lipstick to an interview?

Yes, there are definitely situations where wearing red lipstick to an interview is strongly discouraged. This includes interviews for positions in highly conservative industries, entry-level positions where demonstrating a strong understanding of professional norms is crucial, and interviews where you are unsure about the company culture or dress code. When in doubt, it's best to play it safe.

FAQ 2: If I choose to wear red lipstick, what shade is most appropriate?

A classic, matte red is generally the most appropriate choice for an interview. Avoid overly bright or glossy shades, as they can be distracting. Opt for a red that complements your skin tone and enhances your features without being too overwhelming. Burgundy, berry and other muted reds may also be appropriate depending on your coloring.

FAQ 3: What other makeup should I wear with red lipstick to create a balanced look?

Keep the rest of your makeup minimal and balanced. Focus on a flawless complexion with light coverage foundation or concealer, well-groomed eyebrows, and a touch of mascara. Avoid heavy eye makeup or blush that competes with your bold lip.

FAQ 4: How can I ensure my red lipstick stays put throughout the interview?

Start with a lip liner to define your lips and prevent bleeding. Apply your lipstick in thin layers, blotting between applications. Consider using a long-lasting lipstick formula and carrying it with you for touch-ups, though try to reapply discreetly outside of the interview room.

FAQ 5: What if I accidentally smudge my red lipstick during the interview?

Don't panic! Excuse yourself to the restroom and carefully clean up any smudges. If you don't have time for a full reapplication, blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess color and minimize the appearance of the smudge. Maintain your composure and continue the interview with confidence.

FAQ 6: Can wearing red lipstick to an interview be seen as a sign of confidence?

Yes, in some cases, it can. A well-applied red lip can project confidence and professionalism. However, this only works if you are genuinely comfortable wearing it and it aligns with the company culture. If you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, it will detract from your overall presentation.

FAQ 7: Should I ask the recruiter about the dress code before the interview?

Yes, asking about the dress code is always a good idea. You can politely inquire about the company's dress code during a phone screening or email exchange with the recruiter. This will give you a better understanding of the company's expectations and help you make an informed decision about your makeup choices.

FAQ 8: If I usually wear red lipstick, is it inauthentic to change my style for an interview?

There is a difference between adapting your style to fit the occasion and completely abandoning your personal preferences. If you feel that wearing red lipstick is an integral part of your personal brand, consider opting for a more subdued shade or a matte finish to make it more appropriate for the interview setting. Your style should also never be at the expense of appearing professional.

FAQ 9: What are some safe alternatives to red lipstick for an interview?

If you're unsure about wearing red lipstick, consider opting for a neutral or nude lip color that complements your skin tone. A tinted lip balm or a subtle pink lipstick can also enhance your natural beauty without being too distracting.

FAQ 10: Does the virtual nature of an interview change the rules about wearing red lipstick?

While the overall impact may be lessened compared to an in-person interview, the same considerations still apply. A bold lip can still be noticeable on camera, so it's crucial to consider the company culture and the role you're seeking. Ensure your lighting is good, your camera is positioned correctly, and your makeup is well-applied. Even in a virtual setting, professionalism and poise are paramount. more
3   

  • Alaina Theriot

    2w

    Yes, I agree that red lipstick is a confident color. I wore red glossy lipstick to an interview for a management position and I received the job... offer the same week. You do have to show confidence because the red can be a distraction. more

Paul Grey


Career development 2d
Hi everyone! Can someone please tell me what these ridiculous interview questions are and how you’re supposed to answer them? Yesterday, at what seemed like a respectable company, they asked me which part of a bicycle I associate myself with. Is that even normal? I don’t associate myself with a bicycle at all.

What would you have answered? And what should I have said? Thanks.

4   

  • S Royster

    22h

    Consider that an interview is a two-way exercise. They're sizing up potential employees, but you're also looking for a place suitable for your... talents. If you don't think you'd be comfortable with a zany (ridiculous) culture, you probably won't be comfortable at this office. Presumptuous, maybe, but you might not like working here.

    Assuming you're not interviewing with Schwinn or Specialized or some other bicycle maker, there's no right or wrong answer. It's a test to see how you can react in an unfamiliar situation. (If you can't function in an unfamiliar situation, do not work for this company!) This is potentially unfair. Sports questions work against the unathletic, and bicycle parts are even more obscure to the pedestrian.

    That said, the best answer is the derailleur, the device that shifts the bike into gears so that it's easier or harder to pedal. You are the derailleur, because you can take whatever road conditions you find and make them better. If there's rough road ahead, you can shift into a gear that makes it easier to climb the hill. On a flat stretch of road, you can find that gear where you can go faster than you ever have before. You take any situation, and make it better!

    You also impress the interviewer, an obvious bike enthusiast, by knowing what a derailleur is.      more

  • Constance Burke

    1d

    I was a hiring manager. I asked candidates “off the wall” questions to see how quick they could think on their feet, how creative they were and if... they got rattled. Plus , I probably interviewed more than 10,000 people. Do you know how boring most people are?!? more

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Career development

 22h

France: Senior civil servant accused of drugging over 200 women


French investigators are examining allegations that more than 240 women were secretly drugged during job interviews conducted between 2011 and 2019 by Christian Nègre, a senior civil servant accused of drugging over 200 women, at various culture ministry offices across France.

The case, which spans nine years, centres on claims that women were unknowingly given drinks laced with a powerful... diuretic, leaving them ill, distressed, and vulnerable during interviews that often continued outdoors.

The investigation began in 2018 after a colleague reported Nègre for allegedly trying to photograph the legs of a senior official. Police later uncovered a spreadsheet labelled "Experiments", where he had allegedly recorded drugging times and reactions.

Nègre, removed from the civil service in 2019, is under formal investigation for offences including drugging and sexual assault. His lawyer, Vanessa Stein, has said he will not comment while the probe continues.

Women who came forward described interviews where Nègre offered coffee or tea before leading them on long walks far from toilets.

Many recalled trembling, sweating, dizziness, or public humiliation as they struggled with sudden, overwhelming urges to urinate after drinking the spiked beverages.

"It was my dream to work at the culture ministry," said Sylvie Delezenne, who accepted an interview invitation in 2015 and later learned she was one of the alleged victims. "At the time, I didn't even know this type of attack existed."

Others, including Anaïs de Vos and Émilie (a pseudonym), recounted similar experiences of distress, shame, and lasting emotional trauma.

Several women said the slow pace of the legal process has compounded their suffering. "Six years later, we're still waiting for a trial, which is mind-blowing," Émilie said. "The justice process is bringing more trauma than healing."

Lawyer Louise Beriot, who represents several women, said the alleged druggings were "about power and domination over women's bodies ... through humiliation and control."

The case has drawn attention to "chemical submission", a term that gained recognition in France after the high-profile Pelicot case.

Some women have received compensation in a civil suit, while unions are urging the culture ministry to acknowledge systemic failures that allowed the alleged behaviour to continue for years.

Delezenne, who has since rebuilt her life and career in Lille, said her hope now is simple: "My priority is that this never happens to anyone else again."

(The Guardian UK)

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE more

Career development

 1d

DIGITAL EQUITY: Your Career Now Has a Second Résumé


Member-only story

DIGITAL EQUITY: Your Career Now Has a Second Résumé

And it's the one most professionals don't realise they're being judged by.

A quiet shift has happened in modern careers, and most professionals haven't fully noticed it yet.

Your résumé is no longer the document you update once a year. Your real résumé is your digital footprint -- the ideas you share, the clarity you bring,... the problems you can explain, the way you think in public.

And here's the uncomfortable part:

People who don't exist online are becoming invisible in the market.

Not because they lack skill.

Not because they lack experience.

But because the world has changed in ways the old career playbook simply didn't prepare us for.

Today, digital presence creates something that didn't really exist a decade ago:

Digital Equity -- the compounding value of being visible, searchable, referenceable, discoverable.

You notice it most when you compare two people with similar talent:

One is great at their work, but only the immediate circle knows it.

The other is great at their work and can articulate their thinking online. more