CSS Weekend Reflections Newsletter by Confidential Search Solutions

Employment Trends Updates for Work Week Ending

June 3, 2011

According to June 3, 2011, Friday's Washington Post article, only 54,000 new jobs were added in May.  According to the article, this was the lowest increase in eight months in contrast to more than 220,000 new jobs added in each of the previous three months.  While the unemployment rate rose slightly up to 9.1% from 9% in May, the overall outlook is still good, it is just a lot slower than anticipated.  Many economist felt the tornados and other natural disasters played a significant role in the slow down.  This may be true; however, regardless of the reasons, we must make the best of our given situations and not lose hope.

As we have stated in previous messages, we are personally seeing an increase in recruiting activity and job growth since December 2010.  Therefore, we feel quite confident the market is on course for a steady recovery.  Keep positive and prepare for the best by doing what you can do to position yourself in a favorable light.  Continue to strive for excellence in all you do.

If you want professional assistance to help prepare you for your next career move or major decisions, give us a call before you take action.  Our career coaching team are simply the best.  Here is what one recently Retired Air Force Colonel said about our coaching service, "Much thanks for the discussions we've had and the resources of your company's web site...they certainly helped during my job search process."  We offer hourly, monthly and quarterly coaching and outplacement services custom designed for you.  With our confidential approach, only you will know that you used a coach. 

Have a Great Weekend!

Follow Up is Critical

Featured Article from Career Advisor via CSS Online Career Portal Service

"There are numerous times throughout your job search that provide opportunities for you to follow up.  Think for a moment about the calls you return, the email messages you read or the mail you open. That will help you know WHAT message to leave and what email or mail to send.

CALLS THAT WILL BE RETURNED  If your follow up call is asking for a "status report" or an "update", chances are you will not receive a returned call.  Often hiring authorities have NOT reached a decision and have no time to provide updates to everyone they have interviewed.  However, if you call and OFFER MORE INFORMATION, you may greatly enhance your chances of being called back.  You need to show the hiring authority the BENEFIT they will enjoy by calling you.  Make sure you leave the phone number you will answer - more than likely your cell phone number.

EMAIL MESSAGES THAT WILL BE READ  The subject line is the most important part of your email.  Choose a subject line that shows the individual receiving the email why it benefits them to open your email.  You don't have to limit a subject line to two or three words. Think of a subject line that you would open and use that!

MAIL THAT WILL BE OPENED AND READ  Sending your follow up by mail dramatically increases the chances of your mail being read. Hand write the envelope and write "Personal & Confidential" in the lower left hand corner of the envelope. This decreases the chances of a secretary or assistant opening the envelope and sending your information to the HR Department.  Make sure you have the correct name and spelling of the person you are addressing as well as their title.  Remember, anything you send in writing is forming their opinion of your written communication skills."