Career Briefs: Briefcase Coach's Job Search Newsletter

The following is an excerpt from a previous Briefcase Coach's Career Briefs issue. Career Briefs is my FREE biweekly newsletter delivered to your email, trusted by 20,000+ global executives and career sprinters for job search and professional branding advice.?Subscribe Now and receive access to my newest white paper when it drops on Wednesday, January 31

Dear Reader:

I hope your new year is off to a great start! The start of a new year is a very reflective time for me. Looking back on 2023, I am grateful for all of you who make my work meaningful. I am excited about the year ahead and the goals I have made, both professionally and personally.

Are you a goal-setter? What are your goals and aspirations for 2024? Many of you are setting goals to advance your careers; for some, this means beginning or continuing a job search journey.

Embarking on a job search journey at the beginning of the year can be exciting and overwhelming. Many of you are trying to be mindful of spending while also trying to put your best foot forward in your search. That's why I've curated a list of free and low-cost resources, highlighted in our newest blog article , to ensure your career goals don't come with a hefty price tag.

Rooting for you,

Sarah

?? How to respond to: “Tell me about yourself”

I can almost assure you that one of the opening questions in an interview or networking conversation will be, “Tell me about yourself.” Crafting a compelling response in advance is key to starting the conversation on the right foot. In this article , I share advice from career experts on the best ways to prepare your answer.

Remember to keep your pitch concise and focused on how your achievements align with the company's needs, avoiding personal anecdotes that aren't professionally relevant. Aim for a two-minute response that starts with an engaging hook, highlights two job-related strengths, and concludes with how you can contribute to the company's mission. Don't leave this critical moment to chance!

?? Ace your interview with these expert tips

It is important for executive job seekers to dedicate ample time to prepare for interviews. As part of your process, I recommend reviewing the job description, researching interviewers, and practicing responses to common interview questions. I share career experts' advice on the best preparation methods in this article . Some tips include using the STAR storytelling technique and the LinkedIn premium feature for recording and refining answers to ensure a polished delivery. In a time crunch? I also share recommendations on how to manage your time best to get the most out of your preparation.

Navigating Career Twists: Finding Success Beyond Plan A

I really enjoy podcasts and especially enjoyed this episode of This American Life titled Plan B . The host delves into the real-life narratives of individuals navigating the unexpected twists and turns of their professional and personal paths. From a man who serendipitously becomes a legendary telemarketer to the bizarre kidnapping plan of Frank Sinatra Jr., the episode highlights the resilience and adaptability required when life steers us away from our original plan.

Key Takeaway: For jobseekers, particularly those in leadership positions, the stories underscore the importance of flexibility and the willingness to pivot. Success isn't always found in pursuing our first plan but often in our ability to thrive when Plan B, C, or even D is a reality. Embrace uncertainty and be prepared to find excellence in the unexpected, as the next career-defining moment may lie within a detour from the intended route.

Making Strategic Decisions When Your Boss Moves On

What should you do if your boss leaves and looks to you to follow? According to this article from Harvard Business Review, employees who face such a situation should take time to reflect on career goals and direction before making decisions. Employees should understand the reasons behind their boss's move, evaluate how critical they've been to their success, and assess the organization's future and potential leadership changes. The article emphasizes the importance of owning your career path and not solely relying on your boss's influence, alongside considering if there is a realistic opportunity to follow them.

Key Takeaway: Ultimately, deciding to stay or leave should align with your personal and professional aspirations and not be a hasty reaction to your boss's departure.