Don't Go For BrokeWritten by Peter Robben
In last six months of 2001 many businesses took a direct hit that rocked foundation of their financial business security. Different mentalities have emerged in reaction to shift in economy from "go for broke" to "just give up." Rather than dig hole deeper or give up years of hard work you have put into your business change paradigm in thinking. Review your current business strategy and consider what actions need to take place to stabilize your business again. Once you have stabilized foundation of your business you can begin to grow again. Consider following strategies to regain control.Act…Don't React The strangest things happen to people when they get scared, but worst is reaction of business people that think their hard won business is going down hill and they begin to react. Reaction cause calamities such as loss of additional much needed funds as we throw money at any marketing ploy that looks like it might work. During a time of uncertainly, hold tight to your funds and take extra measures to research advertising before making an investment. Learn to take a deep breath and be pro-active, not reactive to situation at hand. Reign In Expenses Most businesses expend money is areas that are not needed during difficult times. Although these expenses might bolster a business image they are not needed for strict survival or stabilization of business. If you have luxuries in your business that are not absolutely necessary now is time to cut them out. Items like cable Internet services, high rate cell phone services, (option for lower plan), etc. Strengthen Your Networking Now is time to make all those phone calls to business friends you haven't had time for in past. Reconnect and start nurturing networking process again. Do not, I repeat, do not advertise your business hardships. Maintain your positive attitude. Let your business friends know about your plans and offer them a commission for any business they send your way. Make it worth their time and they will be worth your time.
| | Write a Power-Packed ResumeWritten by Cathy Goodwin
A new resume can jump-start your career, especially if you seek employment in a conservative environment impervious to networking, such as a university. I once helped an accounting professor, a friend from graduate school, who was stalled in his job search despite an abundance of opportunities in his field. His resume was killing his career. With a few revisions, he was soon evaluating competing offers. 1. Your resume is a sales tool. It is not a place for therapeutic self-disclosure or true confessions. Be honest but present your accomplishments in most positive way. 2. Leave tricky questions ("Why did you have six jobs in ten years?" "Why are you applying for an entry position after you've been running show?") for interview. 3. If chronology works against you, opt for a sales pitch letter or use your network to get past screener. If you can't avoid a resume, assume people want to see dates.
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