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Crafting the perfect resume is a bit like cooking the perfect meal. You want just the right amount of ingredients, cooked to perfection and presented beautifully. One of the most common questions job seekers face is how many pages their resume should be. It’s a balancing act between providing enough information to showcase your skills and keeping it concise enough to hold the reader’s attention. Let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of resume length and find out what works best for you. Understanding The One-Page Resume Rule AndreyPopov For years, the one-page resume has been touted as the gold standard, especially for recent graduates and early-career professionals. The idea is simple: keep it short and sweet. Hiring managers often have stacks of resumes to sift through, and a concise, well-organized one-pager can make a strong impression. However, the one-page rule isn’t set in stone. It’s more of a guideline than a hard-and-fast rule. If you can fit all your relevant experience and...
Some years ago, Maurice Kuykendoll was simply an attendee at the AFROTECH ™ Conference. Now in its eighth year, he will approach the annual tech affair as an official speaker on the Executive Stage. It’s not lost on him that when he attended the conference, he was responsible for global expense management at insurance company Prudential, with one of its largest expenses being technology. During the transformation, he notes how vital the event was to his leadership development. “I was transforming my team simultaneously, so it was an area of development for me,” Kuykendoll said in an interview with AFROTECH™. “So, a couple of days at this conference, where there’s Black people, and they know all about technology, I was like, ‘I’ll go and see if this can be one of the things I put on my calendar every year to make sure that I am developing this essential part of what’s going on in the world.’” After sitting in many rooms alongside founders and talking to them about their latest...
The past few years have paved the way for new improvements in the job sector . What is being labeled the “Lazy Girl Job” is simply a job that provides excellent work-life balance, pay, and comfort to employees. Many types of employment can fall under this category. These companies aim to care for their employees and their well-being at work. The term “lazy girl job” is less about the job being low-effort and more about employers recognizing their employees as valuable individuals rather than just numbers. This article covers what exactly a lazy girl job is, its benefits and drawbacks, and why it is needed. What Is The Lazy Girl Job? These types of jobs offer employees personal time after work and supportive management. It’s not about doing minimal amounts of work, as the term lazy implies. Companies often provide consistent schedules, remote positions, and excellent training. This shift started during the pandemic when many jobs had to reshape their business models. Employers...
After investing long days, months, and years in the hope of a promotion, you finally receive it. However, it’s different from the rewarding leap you anticipated. Instead, it’s a dry promotion—a mere change in title with added responsibilities but no pay increase. Companies often resort to dry promotions to retain hardworking employees without increasing pay. While it may seem like a step up on paper, it’s primarily a tactic to prevent employees from seeking better opportunities elsewhere. This article dives into why companies are doing this, whether you should accept the promotion, and why a promotion should come with higher pay. Why Are Companies Doing This? There are different reasons why a company might function this way, but all of them indicate a lack of true appreciation for their employees’ performance. Some may argue it’s due to cost and the need to maintain a balanced budget, but that’s often just an excuse. In reality, dry promotions are a way for companies to get more...
Most people spend a significant portion of their day at work, making it natural to form friendships with co-workers . Building these relationships can enhance the working environment, facilitating better communication and workflow while reducing the likelihood of disagreements. However, there are both benefits and potential downsides to becoming friends with co-workers. Do I Have To Be Friends With My Co-Workers? There is no rule that you must be friends with your co-workers. If you prefer not to befriend them, that is entirely your choice. However, it is worth considering why you feel this way about someone you work closely with and addressing any issues to maintain a professional working relationship. In cases of serious disagreements, involving management might be necessary. Alternatively, you can limit interactions to work-related matters. While not being friends with colleagues can lead to awkward situations, being friendly can significantly ease workplace dynamics. How To Make...
Since 2020, the world has undergone significant and enduring changes. The working industry, in particular , has been permanently transformed and no longer resembles its pre-pandemic state. The pre-pandemic changed the formula for how many companies and their employees conduct business. The pandemic showed us many flaws and systematic issues that had not been viewed before. The working culture that existed back then has yet to grow as we progress through 2024. What Was The Pre-pandemic Work Culture The culture surrounding work before the pandemic was one of a huster nature. There was a tremendous envy of beating deadlines, no matter the cause or the effects on employees. Working within an office or building also requires a lot more communication. Remote work was barely there for a few individuals and even fewer companies. The pre-pandemic culture, characterized by its fast pace and competitive nature, often led to employee burnout. It was more than building relationships and...
If you’re a burgeoning business owner or hopeful entrepreneur, chances are you’re familiar with ABC’s “Shark Tank.” Premiering in 2009, the show’s premise revolves around aspiring entrepreneurs pitching their products or business ideas to a panel of potential investors, known as “sharks.” Made up of successful business moguls including Mark Cuban and Kevin O’Leary, these seasoned vets have the power to make some big dreams come true, as contestants plead for investment funds in exchange for equity in their companies. The show has been the force behind some of the industry’s most coveted products, from the Squatty Potty to the Scrub Daddy. Some products that don’t secure a deal on the show still manage to make traction, including Melissa Butler’s inclusive cosmetic brand , The Lip Bar. But what happened to The Lip Bar after “Shark Tank?” Here’s what we know. Who Is Melissa Butler? Before her appearance on “Shark Tank,” Melissa Butler was a former Wall Street financial analyst who...
Navigating the delicate topic of salary expectations during a job interview requires finesse and preparation. It’s a common question that can influence the course of your employment negotiation and shape the future of your salary earnings at your company. It may seem easy to just let them know your dream number. But to truly get the desired outcome, handling this question with finesse and researching why you selected that given number is crucial. From viewing that current company’s financial standing or the average salary for similar roles on Glassdoor , you should do your due diligence. Being intentional before letting employers or hiring managers know your number is not only smart but essential. Here are some strategies to help you tackle this question confidently. How To Answer “What Is Your Current Salary?” The “What is your current salary?” question can be tricky, as it might seem like a straightforward inquiry. However, it’s essential to handle it with care. Instead of...
In the world of work, some individuals genuinely love what they do . It’s not just about completing tasks or reaching a new rank; it’s about establishing a connection beyond the paycheck. There are many nuances to understanding why some people love their jobs and what it truly means when you love them. Those who enjoy their work the most are individuals whose roles harmonize with their passions and strengths. Job satisfaction becomes a natural byproduct when your work holds purpose and meaning. Furthermore, a positive work environment acts as a catalyst, fostering employee joy. The Impact Of Purpose And Meaning For Work The phenomenon of people who love their job is around half of the overall American experience. A recent survey from the Pew Research Center reveals that just about half of U.S. workers report being extremely or very satisfied with their overall job. Additionally, only a minority express high satisfaction regarding training and skills development opportunities. Beyond...
Balancing work and personal life is a universal aspiration in the changing workforce across industries. From watching the daily routines of influencers or the rise of remote work, how our jobs are viewed worldwide has significantly shifted in the last few years. Yet Japan , renowned for its unique cultural nuances, offers a distinct perspective on leadership and workplace culture. A deeper exploration reveals that these cultural subtleties within their country play a pivotal role in shaping professional relationships. Dedication Beyond Boundaries Japanese professionals embody an unwavering work ethic and organizational commitment. Punctuality and dedication are highly valued, often leading to extended working hours as a sign of devotion deeply embedded in their culture. In the U.S., many job seekers prioritize work-life balance and personal time for family and social connections. This creates a distinct contrast in values compared to their Japanese counterparts. Dress Code In The...
Following recent staff cuts in Google ‘s Augmented Reality (AR) division, the advertising sales team now faces additional layoffs, marking part of a broader restructuring initiative aimed at improving the quality of ads customer service. This move aligns with an industry trend seen in significant job cuts at companies like Amazon and Duolingo in 2024. Google’s culture, it seems, goes beyond policies; it’s about employees’ sentiments, posing a profound challenge. In January 2023, Google implemented a substantial workforce reduction, cutting 12,000 employees, equivalent to approximately 6% of its workforce. The company notified affected US staff abruptly through an early-morning email, leading to expressions of dismay among some laid-off workers. The Layoffs Are Continuing To Unfold Anticipated next is Google’s CEO addressing employee concerns and sharing insights on recent developments, including details on layoffs and their potential impacts on various roles. The CEO’s decision to...
Say goodbye to monthly one-on-one check-ins and hello to 360-degree feedback, an approach to professional growth from the perspective of multiple sources. This approach, distinct from supervisor-led evaluations, incorporates input from peers, subordinates, and external stakeholders, making it a new option for career development. But as companies learn how to implement 360-degree feedback with their team, there are specific benefits and challenges to consider. The Pros Of 360-Degree Feedback One of the notable benefits of the 360-degree feedback method is its capacity to foster enhanced self-awareness among individuals. By incorporating insights from various organizational perspectives, employees gain a full-circle view of their performance. This understanding enables them to identify their strengths and areas for improvement, promoting personal development and growth . Beyond individual assessments, the 360-degree feedback method can also contribute to strengthened team dynamics....
Pivoting has become a common theme for the working class since the health crisis hit last March. Many professionals found themselves tapping into their unique skills to make career changes, and arguably every leadership team quickly pivoted business models to continue serving customers. But pivoting can be two-fold. Some pivot because they see an opportunity for change, while others may be forced to — depending on the industry they work in. Either way, product management guru Kimberley Holloway embraces the art of pivoting, and she gathered some strategies. And, if you’re looking to make career changes the right way , she will expand on this topic during AfroTech 2021. Secure a ticket to the conference today. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AfroTech (@afro.tech) Holloway’s resume spans a decade of experience. She’s worked in product management at big-name companies, including The Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, Samsung and NortonLifeLock. “Pivoting is not easy, but...
Career switching isn’t uncommon. And to be able to transition from your current career while building the skills and network you’ll need after-hours is ideal . But what if you find yourself suddenly out of work, with experience in a declining industry with no current job openings? Unfortunately, you’re not alone. Many workers face this challenge during recessions and industry downturns. Faced with a sudden loss of income, mounting bills, and few job prospects, they must quickly select a new career path, upgrade their skills, and repackage themselves to compete effectively for jobs. If you’re unemployed and considering a new career, here’s how you should approach your career switch. Maximize Your Income The more financial stress you’re under, the harder it will be to transition successfully. So first, maximize your income, especially if you don’t have enough savings to fall back on. File for unemployment, and any other benefits for which you may qualify. Scrounge up part-time work ,...
Visibility creates opportunity especially for people looking to build a brand. However, opportunity only comes to those who consistently show up for themselves. From putting yourself first and honoring your choices to trusting yourself to figure it out as you go along, you have to show up for yourself before you expect other people to show up for you. Another major factor at play? Controlling where your mind wanders. Although everyone’s journey is unique, if you’re ambitious and career-driven, you’ll reach a point where fear, judgment, comparison, and feelings of not being good enough may become overwhelming. The key is not to transform your thoughts and feelings into bad habits that hurt your progress. Sure, at any given moment you can lose everything, but nobody can take your attitude or your effort — unless you allow it. If you’re ready to show up for yourself, here are a few weekly habits to embrace. Create Before You Consume When you wake up in the morning, don’t grab your...