5 Secrets to Achieving and Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Source: Entrepreneur.com
Everyday thousands of people wrestle with the question of how to reconcile their work and their life. You have friends, family and work that needs your attention but your work seems to get more attention.
How do you achieve and maintain work-life balance? Here are best kept secrets for that:
1. Be open about your needs.
I believe that the first thing people need to do is identify what truly matters to them and communicate it. Don’t hide it and don’t expect others to guess what makes you feel balanced and fulfilled.
Do you need to leave work at 5 p.m. so you can attend classes? Employees need to have an open dialogue with their managers and managers need to understand what works and what is possible. Different jobs require different approaches, but everyone can benefit from having an open and honest conversation about what balance means.
The second secret to achieving and maintaining work-life balance
2. Respect boundaries.
You cannot achieve your balance if you don’t respect the boundaries you have put in place. It will be hard in the beginning but you need to stick with it so you develop a routine and drive a culture and lifestyle of predictability.
You will find that there is also something else you can do. There is always another email to reply to or a problem to work, but you need to PERSONALLY respect your boundaries. If you don’t then you can’t expect others to respect them.
3. Understand what really matters.
Time is the most valuable commodity in life: it is the one thing you cannot buy more of. So, don’t waste time. Focus on what really matters. Really scrutinize your day and max it out every hour, minute and second to focus on the most important outputs. For some this may require a high degree of planning and structure.
The most important secrets to achieving and maintaining work life balance
4. Embrace the off button.
Pretty much every piece of technology has an off button, so use it. It is not easy and for many people this is the hardest thing to do. To get started, do it in phases. Don’t bring your phone to lunch.
When you unplug and step back you will start to experience one of life’s greatest treasures — perspective. You will think about problems you are wrestling with greater clarity. You allow yourself the freedom to be more analytical and less emotional when you step away and think vs. just diving in and responding in the moment.
5. Pace yourself.
To have a long, healthy, productive, and happy life and career you need to understand the value of pace. There are times when you need to throttle up and there are times when you can throttle down. Self-awareness is crucial. Doing so will help you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
4 Fresh Job-Search Tips You Haven’t Yet Tried
Source: BrazenCareerist
Are you an experienced job seeker looking to change careers? If you have a perfect CV with impressive skills looking for a new job will be hectic but here is a secret:
You’ll need to use some lesser known job search tactics as follows:
Turn a rejection into an offer
Sounds like a head scratcher, doesn’t it? If a company went through the trouble of interviewing you through multiple rounds just to reject you, how could you turn this setback into a success?
If a company has invested time, money and energy digging into your background and interviewing you multiple times, then you must have impressed them. Just because they found a “better fit” candidate, don’t let rejection cause you to think you were not an equally qualified candidate.
Instead, thank the recruiter for their time and ask what other positions are open at the company. You can use that as a chance to build a relationship with someone that can push your professional brand to companies on your behalf.
Check out career paths of previous employees
Sometimes its hard finding your dream job if you haven’t yet had the dream. If you are short on ideas of companies that are hiring for your skill set, leverage LinkedIn. Rather than simply searching through its database for “marketing jobs” or “accounting,” look up specific people who landed roles at your ideal employer.
This not only gives you new leads on employers, but it also provides insight as to what types of candidate profiles impress your ideal employers.
For an added edge, try reaching out to those past employees for insight into the company culture, advice on landing an interview or even a warm introduction to their previous employer.
Attend industry events
Career Fairs can be rough! Candidates line up to pitch themselves… and there you are, hoping to at least making a memorable impression.
Show your ideal company you are serious about working for them by attending other industry events other than the standard recruitment events.
Is your desired company holding a public event to launch a new product? Are they sponsoring a local organizational event?
Attending industry events beyond your typical career fair will not only cut down your competition, but you’ll also glean more insight into your desired company’s values, brand and culture… things you will need to nail in an in-person interview to make sure they see you as a “good fit.”
More fresh job search tips that job seekers haven’t tried
Join a professional association
Associations are a great way to leverage a team of outside resources for your job search. Associations typically have great tools like job boards, tradeshows, business articles, advanced training and other good resources to provide access to potential careers that you have never come across otherwise.
The best part is there is an association for virtually every industry you can imagine. Find the one for you and you will be able to stay abreast with. If you’re an industry expert, sign up to speak at a panel or seminars. This can be an impressive CV booster to a recruiter.
You will meet and grow relationships with leagues of talented individuals and help support each other with your career goals. (Of course, as with any great relationship, the more you give, the more you get back. Be sure to be a value in return!)
Remember, it’s not only who you know, but who knows you… and these types of connections are more likely than anyone else to send you an email one day announcing: “Hey, I came across the perfect position for you.”
Employ these alternative strategies to your career search and you will almost certainly open up a plethora of new opportunities to lead to your dream job.
3 POWERFUL Tips to a Successful Career Transition in Kenya
Tips on Career Transition in Kenya
By Jane Okoth
Nowadays, it is hard to find people committed to one line of profession thanks to the saturated job market. To counter this, I have outlined a few tips that will help you change and transition into a new career.
1. Identify your own career path
“Identifying your next career can start with the interests you develop later in life,” says Serah Mutunga, a Human Resource Manager at Securex.
“You can come from a family of lawyers, doctors and end up becoming a lawyer by default so always do something you have passion for,” she adds.
However, Ms Mutunga opines that there are some occasions where what you want to become in life is not available in the job market.
“For instance, my initial career goal was journalism and mass communication because I had always dreamt of becoming a news anchor,” she reveals.
“However, I developed a passion for Human Resource later in life and successfully made my transition,” she explains.
Career Transition Tips in Kenya
2.Have a clear plan and goal for your career
“Changing careers is something that is happening more frequently than before,” says Brian Kariuki the Country Manager at Travel Start Kenya.
“When seeking for a change, the key concern should be your career growth,” he emphasizes.
According to Mr Kariuki, there is no exact time frame to when deciding to change careers because you should always have a plan.
“A good move would be to start acquiring new skills because you will need them in your next career,” he advises.
“This way, you will fully understand what is needed on a particular field as well be aware of the current trends and skills that are in demand,” he elaborates.
How to successfully make a Career Transition
While in your current career, Mr Kariuki warns against the idea of quitting to pursue passion.
“You cannot get away from the realities of life and always remember that you have to put food on the table,” he affirms.
3. Be patient with yourself
Transitioning to a new role is a long process, especially in Kenyan job market but Mr Kariuki says that losing hope is not an option.
“Search for the job as widely as you can and avail yourself to people even if it means working for them for free,” he advises.
While you are there, you can use the opportunity as a stepping stone to your dream job,” he concludes.
If you want to change your career, give these tips a try and see the difference.
Entry Level Salary for Banking Jobs In Kenya
Salary for entry level banking careers in Kenya
By Jane Okoth
Simon Mutua has been working as a Business Development Intern in a microfinance institution for the past six months.
His unpaid position has been rewarding in terms of experience as he had the opportunity to prove his value to the institution.
In a bid to further develop his career, he is considering applying for the same position in an established bank that will offer him a chance to grow career wise.
He requests in an email, “I am keen on knowing the salary range of a Business Development Officer as an entry level and whether I am in a position to negotiate for more.”
The banking sector has been in the Kenyan job market for decades and continues to take charge as far as employment opportunities are concerned. But when it comes to a salary negotiation, this is a risky proposition for most new graduates pursuing entry-level positions.
Salary for a banking job as an entry level in Kenya
Speaking to Beth Wanjira, a Recruitment Manager at Corporate Staffing Services, the standard pay for an entry level in the banking industry depends on a number of factors.
“Most banks work with targets and upon agreement, you can be given a retainer depending on position you are looking into,” she says.
Another aspect that Ms Wanjira says should be considered is the bank you are working for because some of them pay fairly well compared to others.
To the best of my knowledge, if you are in the Sales and Marketing Position, a retainer figure is roughly K’sh 15,000 to 16,000 while the commission will depend on the specific target you were required to meet.
Should you negotiate for an entry level job in banking?
According to Ms Wanjira, your educational certifications and a couple of internships are not enough grounds to start negotiating for a salary.
“On a positive note, the company is giving you a chance to gain valuable working experience so negotiating an entry-level salary really should not be your first priority,” she advices.
“As an entry level, your main concern should be working hard so that you can be fully absorbed by the company so for the moment just stick to the company’s budget,” she concludes.
CV Writing Tips: 7 Eye Catching Tactics
Best CV Writing Tips in Kenya
By Melody Mwendwa
It is becoming more evident that Jobs are hard to come by nowadays.
Are you currently pursuing the art of sending, attaching, and downloading….but still no incoming mail or an invitation for an interview?
If you are that kind of person, it is time to take a bold step and make a first impression and make each application count.
The irony of job hunting is that you might be very good at what you do, but remember Kenyan employers judge you by how well you articulate your skills on your CV and in an interview.
It is time to show them that you’re great at what you do and this is what you can do to gain an edge in this saturated market.
6 CV Writing Tips
1. Ensure that your CV has a consistent font and format throughout, unless you are a graphic artist; avoid “pimping” your CV with drawings and incompatible formats.
2. Remember that a CV is a professional simple document for the Employer and not for your own personal contentment. Therefore, you should avoid mentioning hobbies and activities that do not highlight your career interests.
3. Apply for jobs that match your skills and the needs of the company. Focus on jobs that are in line with what you want to pursue in the long run.
4. Cover letters express an interest in a job, therefore, identify your key achievements at your previous jobs and equate this to what you can offer the new company.
5. Hiring managers want to employ you because they need your skill and expertise and if you fail to highlight what you were able to achieve for the past employer, it makes it difficult for them to hire you.
6. Duties and responsibilities are significant in a CV. However, identify key duties that reflect the position you are applying for as opposed to mentioning all duties and responsibilities.
If you intend to have a career change, seek professional advice. Do not shoot in the dark; understand what this new profession offers. Take up a volunteer position; be curious to find out why certain jobs will not be fit for your skills and education background.
Remember that the market is dynamic; (too many people chasing after very few jobs) make yourself stand out among your peers. Apply for jobs that align well to your interests and never forget to follow your passion!
CV Writing: How Do You Explain Gaps In Your CV.
By Florence Mukunya
At some point in our employment history, we are likely to experience some gaps as a result of resignation, firing, a company downsizing on its structure, a company seizing to exist, contract or temporary jobs or just the state of not securing a job in a long time either after school or after the last employment.
The most common gaps come about as a result of firing, resignation, contract jobs where one is unable to secure a permanent post upon the end of a contract. All you need to know is how to explain these gaps to a potential employer without sounding like a lazy and unreliable person who cannot be trusted with responsibilities.
CV Writing Gaps: Common Reasons
Some gaps are much easier to explain away than others and the key is to make it sound as positive as possible. Explain the gap in such a way as to reassure potential employers that the issue is now completely resolved and that you are fit for work. If you worked as an Accountant for six years, such as, with a degree in Finance, then one time you felt you needed to further your studies to advance professionally, consider this as a positive gap that will add value to your CV and not raise eyebrows during an interview as it shows your determination to meet your goals.
There are some gaps in employment that you need not bother mentioning and these particularly include those that were only for a couple of months at a time or those that occurred a very long time ago. On a CV, the easiest way to avoid these sorts of gaps being highlighted is to only give the years for your employment and not the months. If you worked for Equity Bank for example from February 2009 to October 2009, stayed jobless from November 2009 to February 2010 when you secured another job, that four-month gap really won’t harm and there’s no need for alarm. Just state that in 2009, you worked for Equity Bank.
CV Writing; Employers Concern
Employers get concerned about employment gaps mainly because they are not sure of one’s commitment and loyalty, especially if you left employment to go venture in business and then for some reason, came back to job hunting. In this case, let your response counter the employers doubts, the best way is to keep the same title you used in your last employment. This is how, if you were a Supervisor before you left employment, and then started your own furniture store, keep the same title for your business. It shows some continuity and passion for your work. You even stand a better chance if you apply for the same job.
Sometimes, however, no matter how hard you have tried, the right job is just not out there for you and you have a gap in your employment history purely for this reason. Many employers will find it easier to believe that you have just been idle during this time. Your aim is to highlight anything positive that you have undertaken during this time and, if you haven’t actually achieved anything, then perhaps you can try to finding something that you can do that will add value to your CV like a voluntary position to keep you active during this time.
Either way, when preparing your CV and cover letter, make sure that you clearly state how you have been proactive in your job seeking during this time and that you are readily available to start work at the convenience of the employer. Be positive and make sure that while called for an interview, you come about as enthusiastic and ready for work
Florence is a career advisor advisor at Corporate
Staffing Services. She can be reached at [email protected]
3 POWERFUL Tips to a Successful Career Transition in Kenya
By Jane Okoth
Nowadays, it is hard to find people committed to one line of profession thanks to the saturated job market. To counter this, I have outlined a few tips that will help you change and transition into a new career.
1. Identify your own career path
“Identifying your next career can start with the interests you develop later in life,” says Serah Mutunga, a Human Resource Manager at Securex.
“You can come from a family of lawyers, doctors and end up becoming a lawyer by default so always do something you have passion for,” she adds.
However, Ms Mutunga opines that there are some occasions where what you want to become in life is not available in the job market.
“For instance, my initial career goal was journalism and mass communication because I had always dreamt of becoming a news anchor,” she reveals.
“However, I developed a passion for Human Resource later in life and successfully made my transition,” she explains.
Career Transition Tips in Kenya
2.Have a clear plan and goal for your career
“Changing careers is something that is happening more frequently than before,” says Brian Kariuki the Country Manager at Travel Start Kenya.
“When seeking for a change, the key concern should be your career growth,” he emphasizes.
According to Mr Kariuki, there is no exact time frame to when deciding to change careers because you should always have a plan.
“A good move would be to start acquiring new skills because you will need them in your next career,” he advises.
“This way, you will fully understand what is needed on a particular field as well be aware of the current trends and skills that are in demand,” he elaborates.
How to successfully make a Career Transition
While in your current career, Mr Kariuki warns against the idea of quitting to pursue passion.
“You cannot get away from the realities of life and always remember that you have to put food on the table,” he affirms.
3. Be patient with yourself
Transitioning to a new role is a long process, especially in Kenyan job market but Mr Kariuki says that losing hope is not an option.
“Search for the job as widely as you can and avail yourself to people even if it means working for them for free,” he advises.
While you are there, you can use the opportunity as a stepping stone to your dream job,” he concludes.
If you want to change your career, give these tips a try and see the difference.
3 Tips To Help You Switch Into a New Job
Source: LinkedIn
Have you been considering switching into a new job or career?
Let’s agree on one thing, career transitions are never easy. Here are few tips to aid your career change.
1.The Job Conundrum
When you are looking to switch into a new job and particularly a new career, what’s the real issue? Why does it cause us so much stress and anxiety?
When looking for a job in a new field, you are facing the chicken and the egg problem – getting hired requires experience, which is why you need to get hired. You know that you can do a good job, but you have to stand out in the crowd somehow in a way that doesn’t make you seem risky.
Sometimes the solution is simpler than you think. It can be as plain as asking a few questions, and getting good at repeating the answers. That might sound stupid, but these aren’t easy questions.
Your value is stuck inside your own head until you are forced to bring it up, and then you do a terrible job explaining it out loud.
2. Stick to Your Story
Use something called a Personal Value Proposition Diagnostic, which is a fancy way of saying “This is why I’m an accountant.” For each job opportunity, answer the following questions:
- What problem do I solve?
- For who specifically?
- What proof can I submit?
- What process or skill makes this proof repeatable in this position?
No matter the company or position, they come up with the unique answers to these questions for every job to which they apply. After that their approach follows a pattern, based on what has worked for decades in the professional world.
3. The Logic of the 4 Questions
Why does this work? Many companies will take a softer stance on their official job requirements if you demonstrate initiative. Prove that you have a deep interest in the company by doing your homework. Learn about their products and services, looking at the language they use to describe themselves. Use this as a guide.
When you are obviously prepared, it sends a strong signal to the person interviewing you. These four answers should be sufficient to cut to the chase, clearly positioning you as a great (probably the best) candidate.
They force you to think critically about your skills and whether they are relevant to this opportunity. If they are, you have a fighting chance to leapfrog some of the more “experienced” folks and snag a great job.
3 Deadly Signs You Are In the Wrong Job & What to Do About It
By Jane Okoth,
Have you ever found yourself terrified at the thought of reporting to work on Monday? Who doesn’t…right?
But unfortunately there are Kenyans who chose the wrong career move and cannot seem to find a way out.
Could there be signs that the job is not meant for you and how do you get yourself out of that position?
Nick Mutuma, a Human Resource Consultant at Virtual HR says that unemployment in the country is to blame for such predicaments.
“Being jobless will most likely to drive you into desperation, consequently forcing you to settle for a job you don’t want,” he says.
“Some people do their work for the sake of money as they have nothing that motivates them,” he adds.
Mr Mutuma also blames Corruption and nepotism as one of the reasons why people are stuck in the wrong job.
“Kenyans nowadays do rely on their connections for jobs and once they get the chance, they are likely to take it for granted,” he opines.
So what solutions does he offer to those who are stuck in the wrong careers?
“For starters, you can opt for integrating other career options rather than just abandoning your present one,” he advises.
According to Mr Mutuma, how to improve your present situation will depend on the organization you are working for.
For instance, your dream career is being an accountant, yet you find that your current job is restricted to teaching. A good idea is to consider taking accounting classes and in that way you can easily incorporate the two.
“If you want to fully advance your career, why not start furthering your education in order to stay competitive in the job market?” he poses.
Secondly, Mr. Mutuma says that it is imperative in your career to pursue what you like.
“Being stuck in a job that is not up to your expectation will demotivate you and you are prone to be unproductive most of the time,” he warns.
“Always follow your passion and do what you are comfortable at. Pick alternative ways to begin your career,” he says.
He adds that, “If you have interest in a certain career, find ways to explore it further.”
On his parting shot, Mr. Mutuma cautions against lacking proper objectives and aims when looking for a job.
“Take time to reevaluate yourself and examine what you need in a job.” he says.
Don’t just work for the sake of money because it is probably one of the reasons you lack direction in your job,” he concludes.
“Should I Apply For Unadvertised Jobs?” HR Advices
By Jane Okoth,
Have you ever been tempted to apply for jobs which have not been advertised? Is it a good move or a terribe one?
This is the kind of dilemma a recent graduate is going through…have a look
“I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in commerce, finance option hoping to secure a well paying career. Since then, I have been applying for many jobs but I have not been gotten any responses so far
I used to check on any available positions advertised in newspapers as well as online vacancies but have never gotten the chance to be invited for an interview. Does it mean that I am not qualified or do not meet the required standards needed by employers?
I have resorted to taking desperate measures. A friend of mine suggested that I should just collect the relevant company contacts and apply for positions whether advertised or not. This he thinks is likely to increase my chances of being hired. If I am to try my new method, how successful will it be?” asks Lilian Maluki in an email.
Speaking to Farayi Ziwsa, the Managing Director of BTL Consulting Limited, he opposes the idea of applying for a job blindly.
“I’m against persons “tarmacking” to ask every business for a job whether they have a published advert or not because I feel that it is like shooting arrows in the dark, trying to hit a miniscule mark,” he affirms.
Mr Ziswa advice to every job seeker is that they should be specific when it comes to jobs as well as identifying the target companies.
“A person must know what they want and target that with all their energy,” he suggests.
5 Tips To Make A KILLER CV For Entry Level Jobs
By Elizabeth Benu,
Are you worried that your zero years of experience will make an employer throw your CV into the trash? If you are, the good news is that you can land a job through that very same CV.
Students, recent graduates and entry level applicants, here are tips to spice up your CV and land you a great job:
1. A summary
It is your CV’s sales-pitch where you describe yourself and what you can do for an employer.
“Without any experience, you should highlight your education and skills. Skills should include those highlighted in the job description,” advices Florence Mukuntya, a professional CV Writer at Corporate Staffing Services.
A sample summary would sound like: ‘Recent graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) with excellent time management, Sage ERP operation and analytical skills. Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and consistently meet deadlines.
2. The experience section
“To highlight your potential to an employer, include any internships or volunteer positions held that have lasted for 3 months or more.
Those without any experience should instead have a skills section where they place any skills gained during your education or trainings or workshops attended,” she advices further.
3. Education
Ms. Mukunya adds that, “Without experience, your highest achievement would be your degree, diploma or certificate. List your education information closer to the top of your CV and include your grades.”
4. Skills
“Those with work experience must include basic traits such as problem solving, communication skills, drive and technical skills.
Recent graduates should include relevant professional skills developed in school or volunteer jobs and computer skills. Ensure that you highlight how your past allowed you to learn or demonstrate these traits,” Ms. Mukunya explains.
5. References
“I like to prefer to referees as ‘huge assets’,” Ms. Mukunya says, adding that, “they will vouch for your dedication and drive even if you haven’t proved those abilities in a work environment.”
She points out that, “Do not leave them out whether they have been requested for or not. Lecturers and mentors are suitable referees for those without any work experience. Those with experience can include their supervisor or HR Manager.”
5 Most Effective Way To Improve Your Job Search
Source: Careerlism
Job search is something that requires hard work and by improving your job search process you get to find better job opportunities and increase your chances of getting your dream job.
Have a look at these tips on how to improve your job search and ultimately land in a position you have always desired.
Recruitment Resources
You will find numerous recruitment resources available such as online job portals and recruitment agencies. Both recruitment agencies and online recruitment websites should be selected carefully in order to get better job opportunities.
You should trust only those agents and agencies which promise measurable results and have a solid collection of testimonials from employees and employers too.
Refining Your Job Search
After registering on an online portal, you just need to refine your job search by putting up your keyword such as ‘Editor’, ‘Accountant’, etc. and look for the most relevant option.
Those who are new in such online job portals should use a refined job search to improve their search results.
Utilizing Job Alerts
A job alert is among the best ways of getting notified about the relevant jobs. These alerts are scheduled notifications which you can get in numerous forms like RSS feeds or email.
Based on the keywords and job criteria, the system will notify you automatically about jobs matching your profile.
Go For Every Kind Of Job Search
There are end numbers of resources that any individual can use while looking for a job. Check out local newspapers on a regular basis. Many local companies who are looking to hire fresher or more experienced professionals usually post the advertisement in the local paper.
It is also advisable that you take a close look in the classified ads section. You can note all the contact details and then reach them directly.
You Should Be Searchable
Finding a job is not all just about looking for vacancies when they are announced by a company. It also happens that employers and recruiters actually seeking employees using various resources.
If you are in desperate need of a new job, you should not leave any stone unturned. There could be many more ways of improving the job search (like through networking at special events and online) but what matters most is that you are dedicated and working in the right direction without wasting much time and effort.
4 Powerful LinkedIn Tips Guaranteed To Get You a Job – Must Read
By Jane Okoth,
Monicah Kogi, the Head of Talent Acquisition and Related Services, says that LinkedIn is one of the best sites to use for your job search.
According to Ms Kogi, most job seekers have not fully crafted their LinkedIn profiles yet it is the best way to be noticed by an employer.
So how do you go about it when looking for a job?
Here are the latest tips you need to consider when creating your profile in order to speed up your job search.
1. Get a professional photo and a good introduction
Pamela Skillings, an Interview Coach says that your photograph is a visual representation of who you are to the world.
“Unlike Facebook or twitter, LinkedIn is more professional and so should be the photo.
“It should be accompanied by an introduction of who you are, what motivates you and what you’re looking for,” she adds.
On the introduction part, Ms Kogi advises that, “For entry level, create your profile and target your industry by highlighting your qualifications, your interests and remember to connect with people.”
2. Your profile summary should be appealing
“A good and well crafted summary on your LinkedIn profile will give you opportunity to shine,” says Ms Skillings.
“This is your space to differentiate yourself from all the other accountants, marketers, and other professionals in the job market today,” she adds.
3. Highlight Your Experience, Skills, and Expertise
Ms Skillings states that, “This is an online platform to highlight what you have been doing as a professional.”
“It should show what you are currently doing and what you are looking for so make an effort to showcase your accomplishments in a compelling manner.
On the other hand, Ms Kogi advises that, “One should also join groups or organizations that are in line with his or her career.”
4. Get LinkedIn Recommendations
“These are testaments to your abilities in certain fields and welcome additions to your LinkedIn profile, particularly for job seekers,” explains Ms Skillings.
“The whole idea is to find someone to validate what you are currently stating in the profile,” she explains.
“You can go about this by asking somebody to recommend you. It could be your former colleague whom you have worked for long or your supervisor who can attest to your skills,” she elaborates.
Your LinkedIn profile can make or break your job search effort so apply these tips and see for yourself the kind of impact it can bring to your job search.
