Changing My Last Name Impacted My Career In a Way I Never Expected Heres How

Changing My belastung Name Impacted My Career In a Way I Never Expected Heres How Growing up with a suranthroponym that wouldve definitely been a high score in Scrabble had its advantages as well as its disadvantages.Early on in my career, I welches always known as the woman with the unpronounceable surpersonenname, causing much hilarity and chuckling at office receptions when people introduced me as Lis With the Name I Cant Pronounce.On the plus side, everyone always seemed to remember me, and I welches thankful that I couldnt be confused for someone with the saatkorn name (even withstanding years of having to incessantly spell out my name upon every interaction).When I was first married, I decided not to change my name the main reason being I was so well known under my maiden name in my industry that I was convinced my professional identity would be affected. So I decided to stick with my maiden name, despite my husband at the time not being very impressed with my decision. He br oached the subject numerous times, in fact, and the more he pushed it, the more I dug my heels in.Wind the clock forward many years, and upon getting married the second time, I had no hesitation in wanting to change my name. It was perhaps strange, but I felt that at that point I was at in my career, my name made little difference. It no longer defined my career success or identity a view that was worlds different from what I believed in earlier years.My name no longer defines my career success or professional identity.Our wedding was a complete secret. We didnt even tell family or friends and essentially jetted off to New York City one very cold winters day to marry in Central Park. Upon returning back to the UK, I thought nothing of going through the process of changing my name both personally and professionally. My wonderful husband often said to me, I dont expect you to change your name you are well known by it. But to me, it was something I wanted to do.The first day back in t he office, I notified my Companys IT Department. In a matter of days, I saw that they had managed to seamlessly change my email address, directory listing, and all of the associated distribution lists I was attached to.But after a couple of days, something very odd started to happen.My emails to colleagues and clients continued as normal however, the prompt responses that once regularly filled my inbox started to become absent. Surely, people hadnt become so busy that no one had time to reply? I checked with the IT team just to ensure therbeie was no issue with the email platform itself and was reassured that all was normal. So, I decided to call a few people to check if my emails were getting through.What email? I havent received one from you.In fruchtwein cases, they adamantly replied that they hadnt received anything. This was really odd to me, so I responded, Can you just check if you have anything from Lis Brown? (As opposed to the Lis Djukanovic they were accustomed to receivi ng emails from.)Responses ranged from, Oh, I didnt know who that was, so I ignored it to I assumed it was spam, so deleted it, and so on.For me, changing my name was the easy part, as I had assumed it was more of an administrative task. But the part I had missed was the impact it would have on others. I realized that Id been taking for granted the name Id been known by for all those years, and how it had allowed me to operate and communicate seamlessly as I established my career.Ultimately, changing my name hasnt affected my career, but itdidreinforce the idea that the identity by which were originally known can change but not without a few bumps along the way. Id assumed my new and newly simplified name would be shared with tremendous ease, and that Id never have to utter the words let me spell that for you again. But even now, I frequently get, Is that Brown with an e? Oh, how I chuckle to myself.If youre deliberating over changing your name, here are some useful tips to follow For those with an HR department Speak to them early so they can advise you on the process that needs to be followed it will require more than an email change, believe you me.Update all the places where you have an online presence This will be critical to ensure continuity across work history or where references checks are performed.Use the signature block in emails to show your change of name Even if you dont want it there permanently, having it for a period of time certainly helps ease the transition.Be aware that distribution lists containing your email may not necessarily change automatically Theyll need to be adjusted to enable email forwarding, so allow adequate time for that to take place.Dont forget to change your voicemail messages. And your business cards will need an update, tooIf you feel comfortable with it, notify your key contacts that your name is changing. Reintroduce yourself under the name that you will be using. That way they will know its still the same you (and you wont wind up lost in a spam folder like I was).Finally, remember that the choice is yours. What matters most is your motivations and prerogative. And if changing your name does indeed matter to you, the inconvenience of the adjustment period will be well worth it.Have you run into similar career roadblocks after changing your name, or are considering changing it but feel unsure? Head over to Fairygodboss community discussion on this topic to read about other womens experiences--Lis Brown is a People Leader with more than 25 years experience in the Management Consulting and Technology Industries. She has spent most of her career working around the globe and has truly embraced operating across different cultures and working styles, often being the only woman leader in the room. Lis is a passionate supporter of all aspects of Diversity and more importantly in ensuring inclusive and supportive environments for all. She is known for her strong moral compass and has no fear in speaki ng out and doing the right thing.

The Leaked Secret to Effective Way of Writing Resume Disclosed

The Leaked Secret to Effective Way of Writing Resume Disclosed Everything in your resume must align with what theyll be on the lookout for in candidates. Your job (while youre attempting to find a job) is to make sure that you fit what theyre searching for. Each time you apply to get a new job, check your resume to make sure that it is not only targeted, but in plus-rechnen current. Doing a job ultimate posting of writing resume is among the absolute most writer ways to boost your odds of success. The Basic Facts of Effective Way of Writing Resume Doing this ensures that an individuals own document will stick out above the rest of the applicants for a particular position. You should organize your resume to aid agencies evaluate your experience. The info in your resume should paint an image of the kind of employee you are and show employers what youre capable of accomplishing. If it comes to resume writing there are quite a few who truly will attempt to provide you all of th e advice youre ever going to need. Resume writing can appear to be an intimidating endeavor, but its actually simpler than you believe. Based on who you ask, everybody has a different idea of the way the professional experience part of the resume ought to be written. Resume objectives can be a little controversial. What to Expect From Effective Way of Writing Resume? A great resume format is simple to scan. While Canadian resumes are available in many unique formats, they share some standards that you ought to know about. Also, there are various techniques to format your resume, based on your employment history and experience. Such templates are broken down into various professions, different varieties of resumes, and in different ways. The Effective Way of Writing Resume Cover Up Career Services offers appointments to help you with your resume. Resumes are generally used by employers and admissions committees who need to learn more about a specific candidate. If you do nt supply the info needed for the hiring agency to ascertain your qualifications, you may not be considered for the job. Use the checklist to be certain you have included all appropriate data in your resume. Writing is a daily portion of several jobs and its a significant part communication. Guide writing can be a tough job. If youve got many abilities, the previous skill paragraph may be called Additional Skills. At times the Skills and Accomplishments section is an individual section. What Does Effective Way of Writing Resume Mean? A simple resume template is going to be your very best bet. You have to compose a resume which is a small different for each work application. You have to invest time into each application and make certain that your resume is tailored to every employer and the job which youre applying to. There are lots of basic forms of resumes used to make an application for job openings. The Benefits of Effective Way of Writing Resume Most folks look at wri ting a resume as just something youve got to do to have a job. Some are rather simple to get and others require lots of education. If youre able to clearly demonstrate that youve got strong communication skills on your resume you will improve your likelihood of obtaining a very first interview since they are some of the greatest skills to put on a resume. There are some essential communication skills that are important for most positions though some jobs require some particular abilities.

9 Ways To Be a Better Boss

9 Ways To Be a Better Boss 9 Ways To Be a Better BossPosted April 3, 2019, by JennyTaking charge in the workplace may come a little easier for some than others. Whether youre leading a small gruppe of two or 20+ when it is time to step up to the plate its important that youre a boss that people want to work with and do well for. So, what should a good boss be and how do you become this great boss that everyone wants to work for you ask? Follow our tips for becoming a better boss below...1. ListenA loud leader isnt the best leader. Try not to be the only one talking in all your meetings, instead listen to your team - ask questions and show that their opinion counts and their ideas are good. After all, thats why you hired them.2. Show genuine interestHaving a sincere curiosity and interest in the people who work under you can make them feel valued and help build a solid relationship. A simple chat in the kitchen while making coffee can give you the opportunity to ask Mary if shes looki ng forward to her upcoming holiday or stop by Toms desk to see how planning for baby number three is going or pencil in a catch up with Annie who just joined the team to see how she is settling in.3. Spend timeDont lock yourself away in your office and detach from the team. Make the effort to spend time with your employees. Why? Because according to a study conducted by Leadership IQ this will help them be more inspired, motivated, engaged and innovative.4. Dont get too big for your bootsIf a bit of authority can quickly get to your head. Then stop right there and get yourself back down to earth. While its important to not be too relaxed and still hold respect, its also important to ensure your team feels at ease around you and youre not carrying around an air of arrogance. Remember, every boss started as an employee for someone else.There is no I in team and without your team success is not so achievable. Treat your teammates like colleagues, not subordinates5. Be passionateIf you want your team to be motivated then be motivating. If the boss doesnt care then why should anyone else?6. Encourage development and growthEveryone is on their own career journey and to get the best out of your team you need to encourage them to always be learning, constantly upskilling. You want to be a mentor who is not only considered about your success but also theirs.A good manager is a man who isnt worried about his own career but rather the careers of those who work for him.H.S.M Burns Former President of Shell Oil Company7. Lead and inspireAnyone can dish out orders and tell people what to do, but thats not what true leadership is about, nor is it inspiringfor your employees. Always strive for greatness - if you want this from your team then you have to lead by example.People want to work for a leader, not a boss. Boss spelled backward is double SOB,- New York Times, best-selling author, John Acuff. Find inspiration of your own and how you can grow to be the best you can be by seeking out a mentor - perhaps ask someone more senior than you in or someone you admire.8. Be flexibleFlexibility in the workplace is a top priority these days. Allowing a work from home day every week or fortnight, or offering flexitime allowing a late start or early finish here or there will mean one small step for you and one huge win for your team. Employees want to feel independent and trusted that theyll do their work. So theres no need to stand over them with a stopwatch monitoring their every minute. Being flexible and understanding with your team will motivate and empower them.9. Dont point the fingerNo one likes to be wrong, but its a reality in any workplace and in life. Mistakes happen (from you AND your team) but whats important is how you deal with it. Instead of scurrying around looking for someone to blame, use your time thinking of a resolution.Remember, theres no magic formulaThere is no one-size-fits-all approach for how to be an amazing boss. Each workplace w ill require different things of you and each manager has to find a style theyre comfortable with. Just remember a simple thing called empathy. Treat people how you would like to be treated, create a culture that youre excited to be a part of and build a team that values and respect each other.Now, go forth and lead.Leadership ResourcesOperations manager sample resumeOperations manager sample cover letterCareer Insider StoriesArsalan Ali - Woolworths Trainee ManagerJustin Hillberg - General Manager at SurfStitchBelinda Lyone - COS General ManagerInterested in becoming a?Team LeaderManaging DirectorProject ManagerHuman Resources ManagerDepartment ManagerPopular Career Searchesbest australian universitiesmy new career courseswhy do you want this job best answersick leave letter to bossnew career for 2018Leadership CoursesAdvanced Diploma of Leadership and ManagementEnquire Online Enquire Online Job hunting tipsPsychometric testsPsychometric Tests - What Are They And How Do I Prepare Fo r One?Psychometric tests are used by recruiters and employers to measure candidates cognitive abilities, attitudes, personality and knowledge. If youve been asked to take one, weve got advice on what steps to take to be extra preparedCAREER ADVICEManagement5 Preparation Strategies for First-Time ManagersBecoming a new manager is as challenging as it is exciting. See our 5 tips to help you hit the ground running and ensure your management style works well

Why it might be a good idea to structure your resume like a press release

Why it might be a good idea to structure your resume like a press releaseWhy it might be a good idea to structure your resume like a press releaseThe ongoing grind of the job hunt often inspires the desire to send out resumes that catch peoples attention. For creatives that might include a catchy tagline or clever wordplay. For graphic artists, that could feature a stunning design at the top of the page that says mora about your talents than a list of happy clients. But what about people who need to use words alone to describe their skills and abilities? Structuring your resume like a press release might be the energy boost your career desperately needs.Why a press release?Press releases - like resumes - often have to limit themselves to capturing someones attention immediately and presenting all information in a catchy way all in under a page. Sound familiar? If youre looking for a job in communications, structuring your resume like a press release is a clever idea as it would st and out among ones that are more typical, said Ann Magnin, founder of NYC PR agency Ann Magnin, Inc.And if youre looking for inspiration, Magnin said Its format and language could mimic a release announcing a new hire or promotion, sort of cheeky, but also a way to illustrate that youre a perfect match for the company. But dont settle for sending the same press release to every company. Research your target and include specific elements that make it clear you know the company. Meanwhile, Magnin thinks you can be creative depending on your target A resume written like a press release can include a visual component to further elevate it perhaps it can even be interactiveIt worked for herIn 2005, new college graduate Sarah Usher, who currently works as Director of Communications for AGW Group was trying to set herself apart from other new graduates. At that point, We were still mailing our resumes to prospective employers, so I wrote an actual press release to act as my cover letter t he release was announcing Id been hired by the company I was applying for complete with a quote from the CEO and all.It worked for her. I received an overwhelming response from it, more than I had anticipated. I had CEOs from companies that didnt even have open positions available at the time calling me to compliment the way in which I had reached out. It got me quite a few interviews, and ultimately my first job in the PR field. But a creative approach to your resume isnt limited to the communications industry. I think its important to be able to sell yourself in the same way you would think about positioning a client, Usher said.To that end, think about What are your differentiators the compelling, and interesting characteristics that make you stand out from everyone else? Usher also advises trying to find ways to get your story and expertise across in a unique way to help cut through the clutter of other standard/form resumes and cover letters potential employers receive on a dai ly basis.How to get startedGenerally speaking, there is no right or wrong answer on how to format your resume, offered Amy Onori, Talent Director M Booth.It might help to think of your resume as a snapshot and a reflection of your work history, Onori said. More than that, Its the first impression youre going to give to a prospective employer. For that reason, formatting your resume like a press release could help because the information on both needs to be relevant and succinct. Its also important to realize that press releases have a sense of immediacy.When youre unleashing a piece of media to the press, youre essentially broadcasting a piece of news you want captured within the media ASAP, Onori said. Keeping that in mind might help you to structure your resume in a way that makes it seem important enough to review right now before all the other candidates.But dont be so brief that you forget the essentials. Make sure to always include where youve worked, what youve done and accom plished, and where your core competencies are, Onori cautions. Your resume can be your brand, and employers like brands that can tell a sweet and simple story of where youve been, where you plan to go, and the assets youll be able to take with you on your journey.

The Perfect Resume

The Perfect ResumeThe Perfect ResumeLong gone are the days of submitting an education and job history resume. The resumes of today are interactive and social and spring to life for those who read them.In case you havent noticed, we are in a digital world where text becomes more than just letters and words on a page. Your resume should grab the hiring manager with phrases that come alive and grab their attention.It may seem like a daunting task because the modern resume is always evolving but it offers a great opportunity to get really creative with work history and education which will give you, the job applicant a little edge over others vying for the same spot.We came across this infographic via ColoradoTech that outlines the perfect resume

Student Loan Repayment Benefits for Employees

Student Loan Repayment Benefits for EmployeesStudent Loan Repayment Benefits for EmployeesAccording to the most recent 2015 data, student loan debt has reached a whopping $1.2 Trillion in the USA alone. A CNN report stated that Student loans have increased by 84% since the recession (from 2008 to 2014) and are the only type of consumer debt not decreasing, according to a study from Experian leistungspunkt agency, which analyzed student loan trends from 2008 through 2014. This overwhelming debt and the pressure of making huge monthly payments is taking its toll on nearly 40 million people worldwide, most of all those working to support a family and protect their credit scores. Your employees are under stress from student loan debt. Chances are, a large portion of your current (and future) workforce is struggling in some way with student loan debt. Therefore, a possible benefit that companies should seriously consider is that of student loan payoff support. A July 2015 study from i ntuition, a popular solution provider for student loan borrowers, revealed the following interesting data 75% of the 1,000 student loan borrowers said they would prefer to work for a company offering student loan repayment assistance, including matching contributions and loan management tools.55% of these individuals also said they would rather see employer health contributions go towards paying off student loan debt.49% would prefer student loan payment contributions to retirement savings plans, like 401 (k)s Younger employees who are fresh out of college face the biggest challenge when paying off student loan debt. Sadly, their take-home income almost never stretches far enough to cover loan payments and living expenses, so many are forced to live with parents until they start earning more. Even workers in mid-careers are struggling to pay down student loans when they are also trying to raise children, buy homes, and support aging parents. Its a never-ending vicious cycle that too many people face daily, affecting their work performance and other aspects of their lives. How many employers are currently offering student loan repayment benefits? The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) advised that only 3% of employers actually offer some type of student loan repayment benefits to employees, and only around 1% of employers plan to offer this benefit in the near future. At the saatkorn time, SHRM reports that student loan debt reduces employee productivity. A 2015 Price Water Cooper House (PWCH) survey shows that 20% of employees are distracted daily by their financial issues and 37% spend three or more hours per week worrying about personal finances. Supporting employee financial wellness with student loan repayment benefits. If a company wants to attract a solid workforce and improve productivity levels, it can easily implement a student loan repayment benefit. Give employees a choice of having company matched dollars for a retirement plan or a student loan repayment plan. They can still contribute their own pre-tax dollars if they wish to a retirement plan of some sort. Each month, pay a set percentage of the student loan debt with a direct payment to the issuing organization. Give all employees access to financial wellness tools to help them manage their budgets, such as SmartDollar, which can help them with getting back on track with solid financial habits. Use education to help employees keep their student loan debt out of deferment and default. If employees are faced with garnishments stemming from defaults, provide access to the counseling and the financial benefits they need to get them restored to payment status. As part of your overall benefit, include this information on total compensation statements. Provide a monthly statement showing the amount paid towards student loan debt.

Make a Positive Impression When Interviewing Candidates

Make a Positive Impression When Interviewing CandidatesMake a Positive Impression When Interviewing CandidatesIn todays job market, talented creative and marketing professionals have lots of options. As a hiring manager, you need to use vorstellungsgesprchs as a platform to showcase both the position and your firm (in addition to evaluating if an applicant is right for the role, of course). When it comes to interviewing candidates, its essential to remember that its a two-way street. The person sitting across from you is assessing the opportunity - and how you represent the company - from the moment your interaction begins.Here are my seven tips to help you make a positive impression1. Nail the pre-interview prepMaking a great impression begins before the candidate even walks through the door. Providing all the information they need in advance of an interview is a must. This includes confirming who the candidate will be interviewing with, who they should ask for on arrival, and pro viding directions and parking information to expedite their arrival. Devoting time to making aya their experience is a positive one from start to finish makes your company stand out. Even small things, such as letting your reception desk know you are meeting a candidate, demonstrates such attentiveness.2. Pick the perfect interview spotThe space you choose for interviewing candidates should be well lit, comfortable and conducive to conversation. If youre meeting outside of your place of business, the environment is even more important. Think about the time of day and make sure your location wont be too noisy. Having to scream in a crowded coffee shop obviously wouldnt be ideal. Interviews are already nerve wracking, so do whatever you can to select a location that will help put the candidate at ease.NEED TO HIRE?3. Run on scheduleI once participated in an interview where we kept a candidate waiting for what must have felt like an eternity because my colleague welches running behind. Starting the meeting by profusely apologizing wasnt part of our plan. Being even a little bit late for an interview (or keeping the person for far longer than scheduled) will give the impression that the applicants time is not important to you.4. Be preparedEven if you have read the candidates resume very closely, scan it again before you enter the room, and keep it on hand. Also bring a copy of the job description and the questions you plan to ask for quick reference. Decide in advance, not on the fly, how you can best convey the greatest selling points of the job and your company culture. Its your responsibility to bring to life what makes your creative department or agency such a rewarding place to work.5. Practice positive body languageBody language is complex. As the interviewer, yours sets the tone for your interaction. The candidate will likely take cues from you to get a sense of how they are doing. Pay attention and use your body language to communicate your interest in th e conversation. Avoiding eye contact, fidgeting, crossing your arms or slouching can send negative signals loud and clear. Out of respect to the interviewee, regardless of their performance, keep your own body language in check.6. Avoid potential distractionsDont check your phone or computer during an interview - or let anyone who isnt supposed to be in the room interrupt you. In short, focus solely on the candidate and nothing else. Its smart to take notes, which can prove to be particularly useful if there will be additional rounds of interviews - and also demonstrates attentiveness, which reinforces a positive impression.7. Wrap things up positivelyRegardless of how well or poorly the interview went, treat all your candidates with respect and close the interview in a positive manner. Allow time for them to ask questions - and answer each one enthusiastically. Thank the person for their time and explain next steps. Smile. Make eye contact. Shake hands as you depart.Your end goa l is for job candidates to leave feeling excited about your company and the opportunity to work with you. If youre professional, prepared, enthusiastic and authentic, you will make a good impression on your next employee from the outset.Octavia Goredema is the founder and editor of Twenty Ten Talent, a career resource for talented young black women. Find her on Twitter at OctaviaGoredema.