Tactics

'Tactics' is a term used in the military to describe a set of instructions or maneuvers used to engage in battle. I liken getting ahead in your career to that of a military commander laying out his plan to prepare his troops for battle. If you are to be successful in your career, you have to spend a lot of time mapping out a plan of attack to keep you on the right track. This may include choosing the right coursework to build knowledge in your area of interest. It could mean engaging in volunteer work to expose yourself to life-like situations applicable to your field of study. And let's not forget about conducting informational interviewswith mastered professionals who know the lay of the land all to unfamiliar to you. It is these well-thought out tactics that I can help you with, so that you are fully equipped when you meet with hiring managers and human resource professionals. The way I see it these folks can be an obstacle to deal with as you are navigating the high seas of career advancement. I can help stymie them with your own tailored plan of attack.

Myths about Resumes

The resume can be a powerful tool in today's job market if it accurately speaks about your accomplishments, talents, and experience in the trenches. You've got but 15 seconds of the HR person's time to make a lasting impression, so if your resume does not clearly communicate what you can bring to the table, then your talent will be wasted. The resume may be the most honest piece of work history you have in writing, but it's only going to get you in the door. Job seekers need to be good salesmen to close the deal for the job. You have to be passionate in the interview to back up your resume. The spotlight is truly yours when you are meeting with the hiring managers and HR personnel, so don't be shy, nor hold back about why you want the job and why you're the best candidate. I will help you with the necessary ammunition you need to succeed in the interview.

Your Personal Brand - Everyday is an Interview

What about the intangibles that you have to offer? How and when will you have the chance to tell people about them? I really think that the phrase, "Everyday is an interview" is true in today's work world. Every action you take speaks dividends, and the way you carry yourself around the office is something that is being noticed. Engaging in extracurricular activities such as community service or serving as a board member of a club can really propel your status when trying to advance your career. I've found that staying active in a number of extracurricular activities has opened doors for me and exposed me to folks I would not have normally met. What this says about you is that you are a 'go-getter' and not afraid to show passion for something you believe in. Your actions will translate into making you a recognizable figure in the office. It is then that you are living and building your brand, and leaving your footprint for everyone to see. Let me redesign a branding strategy to help build your name around the office.

Some tips for success:

Dress in a shirt and tie

Volunteer for a charity event at your office

Take on tasks no one wants to do

Download company screensaver to your computer

Introduce yourself to the new faces in the elevator or hallway

Tactical Writing is Scott Borack, a Professional Resume Writer out of Columbus, OH, specializing in helping job seekers develop career tactics. He can be reached at http://www.tacticalwriting.com