Hello Generation Z! – Embracing a new approach to the changing world of work

October 1, 2014 |
News Feature

By Lori Jazvac. There is a new generation that is only beginning to scratch the surface of the workforce and leave a profound mark on prospective employers and career practitioners alike – Generation Z. While we often can pinpoint the distinct differences between Generation X, Y, and the Baby Boomers, leaving behind a trail of a steady 30+ year career progression, Generation Z offers a different twist. Unlike their Generation Y counterparts, the age bracket born between 1994 and 2010 is distinguished for employing an entrepreneurial, self-motivated, and innovative approach…

Make the Most of your References

August 28, 2014 |

By Sharon Graham. Are you like me? I’m frequently asked to provide references for colleagues, and I am always happy to do so – especially when I can say something meaningful about how they have enriched my life, career, or business. Perhaps you also share some of my biggest frustrations. Often, I have to decline the request to be a referee because I don’t know the person well enough. When I do endorse someone I know wholeheartedly, I seldom learn the outcome of my support. DEFINITION ref·e·ree n. A person who…

The Canadian Employment Strategist – Transitioning Clients Effectively

June 9, 2014 |

Introducing the 2014 CANADIAN EMPLOYMENT STRATEGIST 160+ Page Certified Employment Strategist (CES) eGuide All New – Order Your Copy Now! Career transition can inflict much stress on our clients. Job searching, resume writing, networking, interviewing, and negotiating are all accompanied by a steep learning curve. Keeping things on even keel is not an easy task. Clients need help to keep their job search in steady, forward motion – and the Certified Employment Strategist (CES) Program can help you enable and empower them. Want to get your CES certification? Get certified through…

5 Characteristics New Grads Should Not Talk About When Applying for Jobs

June 3, 2014 |

A survey of nearly one thousand Canadian employers has identified the characteristics they value most in applicants, and, intriguingly, those they value least – and the second list is surprising. Each year, the Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers (CACEE) surveys Canadian employers to enquire about their hiring practices and intentions, including the characteristics they seek in a recruit. For the past three years, the Top 5 Characteristics have been the same. 5 Most Favoured Characteristics Communication Skills (Verbal) Teamwork Skills Analytical Skills Strong Work Ethic Problem Solving Skills These…

Six Parallels between Career Development and Building a Business

May 27, 2014 |
professional man with business card

By Janet Barclay. I worked in employment services for many years before I decided to start my business, and I’ve noticed that job seekers and entrepreneurs really have a lot in common. Small business owners and job seekers need to define their target market and develop a plan for connecting with key decision makers within that market. Job seekers and small business owners need to identify and articulate their unique attributes and why employers or clients should choose them rather than their competitors. Entrepreneurs require marketing materials that clearly indicate…

Case Study: How Julie’s Value Proposition Landed Her the Job Offer

February 12, 2014 |

By Sharon Graham. Let’s face it, there is only one reason that our clients are in career transition — they need to secure a good job. Unfortunately, many other Canadians in our market are also working for that ideal placement. So, how do we help clients stand out? As career practitioners, our objective is to help each client get the offer by delivering a unique, powerful, and consistent message. Throughout the process, we are enabling them to “sell” themselves to potential employers by imparting a “Value Proposition”. When applied, a…