Tuesday, September 29, 2015

7 Reasons You Should Use a Realtor When Selling Your Home

7 Reasons to Use a REALTOR When Selling Your Home

Selling your home can seem a daunting task. When you close that deal, you want to make sure that your home goes to the best buyer for the best price. It may seem cheaper to sell your home yourself, and many do; however, there are a lot of details to work through.
“Selling your home through a REALTOR® can help you make sure you get the best value overall,” says Kimberly Nicole, a REALTOR® based in The Woodlands/Houston, Texas metro area who caters to luxury homes and their clientele.
kimberly2Nicole offers seven reasons why you should use a REALTOR® instead of selling your home yourself:
  1. REALTORS® Know How to Navigate the Process – A REALTOR® is the manager of your home buying process. Nicole explains that you and your REALTOR® will begin with extensive discussions to head off any road blocks later on. Your REALTOR® is aware of your concerns, needs and priorities. They are there from the beginning to end, navigating each step of the way with you. Selling real estate can be a tricky business, full of regulations and involved steps. Your REALTOR® works for you, staying on top of the latest regulations and helping you meet them.
  2. REALTORS® Know How to Professionally List the Property – In the age of Web 2.0, it’s not enough to upload your phone photos to a few random sites. Buyers expect professional photos, videos and flawless online presentation. To get the most exposure, you also need to manage your listing across multiple channels. REALTORS® will do all this for you, including coordinating with photographers and videographers to make sure your listing is top-notch. “Hitting the right emotional and responsive chords with buyers is the goal,” says Nicole. “Determine who the likely audience is, and market directly to that audience.”
  3. REALTORS® Know How to Prepare Sellers – Before you sell, your home must be in the best condition possible. Your REALTOR® can advise you on what repairs need to be done, and they frequently know good contractors. You may have to have inspections done before you sell, and will probably have to do repairs. A REALTOR® can set up any required inspections and instruct you on how to prepare. Sometimes homeowners will take out a loan against the house to finance costly repairs, but this can’t be done while the house is on the market. A REALTOR® may help assess the situation, and then wait to list it until the repairs are completed.
  4. REALTORS® Can Help Sellers Prepare for Showings – “Staging is extremely important,” says Nicole. “That first impression is vital.” Not only do all of the repairs need to be done, but if you still live there, the place must be kept clean and staged. This means everything from maintaining curbside appeal to the little details, like placing out a plate of cookies or laying out your best dishes in a table setting. She advises that a home must be open and inviting, and that smells, pets and lighting must all be taken into consideration. “We don’t want a home not selling because a buyer can’t see their own furniture in the home.” Your REALTOR® may also advise you to de-clutter certain closets and rearrange rooms. They may explain which personal touches add a “homey” look and which things detract from a potential buyer envisioning their own decor.
  5. REALTORS® Can Help Get Buyers Through the Doors – REALTORS® not only get the traffic in, they know how to manage it. They can arrange and hold open houses in a way that gets as many visitors as possible. They also work with buyers so that showings are more convenient for you. This is especially important if you still live in the house. REALTORS® may also help weed through potential candidates so that you don’t waste your time with no-shows or non-serious buyers. “If a person needs to sell a house before buying another, the seller needs to know this,” says Nicole. This all factors in to final decisions and net proceeds.
  6. REALTORS® Know How to Objectively Negotiate – You may think preparing and showing your home may be stressful, but receiving offers can be difficult. “The goal is to get the most money as the seller, and as the buyer the goal is to look at market value and if it’s priced appropriately. You don’t want to present an offer that’s an insult to the seller," says Nicole. A REALTOR® can help you stay reasonable, without letting you take a lowball offer either. They will also be there to navigate a multi-bid and renegotiations. “Renegotiations fall apart all the time, and deals frequently don’t come through,” she says. “Each side has different concerns, and each party needs to know where the other stands.” Closing can be a confusing process, and there is a lot of paperwork to sign. Your REALTOR® has been through this many times and can explain everything you are signing and why. If you have any questions on anything, your REALTOR® is right there.
  7. REALTORS® Know the Area – “The key to a good agent is knowing the area,” says Nicole. They know what the property values are, and have a good idea of future market fluctuations. They also know where and how to list your property for best results. Having a home listed on MLS is not enough. A good REALTOR® that is knowledgeable of the area is essential to getting the best deal on your home.
To learn more about what go to our web-sites www.sborchelt.golyon.com or www.skrohn.golyon.com

Thursday, September 24, 2015

How Is Student Debt Effecting Homeownership

Student loans present a lot of burden for many who carry the debt from their university days. Some economists have even warned that rising student-debt levels will hurt the housing market. But a new report by Zillow contradicts these warnings and shows that student debt isn’t holding back most young professionals from buying a home.

The report found that having more student debt had only a slightly negative effect on homeownership for people with their degrees. Statistically, a couple with no student loans and at least one bachelor’s degree have a 70% chance of owning a home in their early 30s. A couple with $30,000 in student debt and at least one bachelor’s degree have a 68% chance. Couples that owe $50,000 in student loans and have at least one master’s degree have a 75% chance of homeownership. Couples with $10,000 in loans and nothing beyond bachelor’s degrees have a 69% chance of owning a home. The probability of owning a home changes little based on how much the couple’s debt is, especially if it means they have more education.
Read the full story here.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

6 Motivating Motion Pictures

6 Motivating Motion Pictures
 
image: man relaxing in hammockLike other forms of storytelling, movies have the power to educate as well as entertain. Dr. Skip Dine Young, Psychology Professor at Hanover College, Indiana, and author of "Psychology at the Movies," says films don't just reflect the viewer's current state, they can also provide clues for how to progress into the future. A steady diet of inspiring movies like these will not only help ignite the fire of success but also keep it burning bright as you reach for your goals.

In Yes Man (2008), Jim Carrey plays Carl Allen, a regular guy who's settled into his unfulfilling routine. With a simple change of behavior, his life is taken in directions he never thought possible. This movie is a great reminder to stay open to all the opportunities that surround us every day.

Notable quote: "The world's a playground. You know that when you are a kid, but somewhere along the way everyone forgets it."

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) is the true-life tale of Chris Gardner, who ended up homeless while caring for his young child and working through an unpaid stockbroker internship. Aside from being an emotionally moving portrayal of the ups-and-downs of life, this film demonstrates why you should never give up on your dreams, or yourself.

Notable quote: "You got a dream? You gotta protect it. People can't do something themselves, they wanna tell you, you can't do it. If you want something, go get it. Period."

Stand and Deliver (1988) follows math teacher Jaime Escalante as he fights school administration apathy and gang violence in order to help under-privileged students at an inner-city school in Los Angeles. As much about succeeding in the face of adversity as overcoming low expectations of others, this film will inspire you to overcome any obstacles standing in your way.

Notable quote: "You're going to work harder here than you've ever worked anywhere else. And the only thing I ask from you is ... desire."

The Social Network (2010) tells a turbulent story of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. The film contains some cautionary lessons about the drawbacks of fast success, and the importance of friendships, having clear communication and watching your "legal" back. More importantly, it reminds one of the determination and focus required to succeed in the face of setbacks.

Notable quote: "You don't even know what the thing is yet. How big it can get, how far it can go. This is no time to take your chips down."

When Steve "Pre" Prefontaine (1997) tried out for basketball and football in high school, he failed to make both teams because of his height and an issue with his leg. He caught a glimpse of students running cross country and found the inspiration he'd pursue all the way to the 1972 Olympics in Munich. You too will be inspired by the total dedication of one of the not-as-well-known heroes of the running world.

Notable quote: "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift."

Good Will Hunting (1997), a masterpiece written by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, is worth watching again and again. The film follows a 20-year-old genius who is working as a janitor at MIT and struggling to find his own way. His greatest obstacle to success is himself. For those who believe they are not worthy of success, this film will prove the opposite is true.

Notable quote: "You'll have bad times, but it'll always wake you up to the good stuff you weren't paying attention to."
Sources: Psychology Today, LifeHack.com
 

Friday, September 18, 2015

What We Can Do For You

We strive to give every client the personal care and attention they deserve. I believe that relationships are more important than transactions.  We will be there for you Before, During, and After the Sale. We will work hard for you, making sure we understand  your needsuse state of the art marketing, demonstrate strong negotiating for your salemeeting all timelines and making sure all paperwork is legal and complete.  When buying or selling a home these are the things that are most important to you.
There are many ways we can be of service to you outside of an active real estate transaction, so please don't hesitate to call us.

What we can do for you? Before,During, and After the Sale:
  • We pride ourselves on being available when you need us we answer our phone and return calls promptly.                     
  • Real Estate News You Can Use. Updated information and statistics on local market conditions.  This can differ substantially from the national market conditions and what you hear in the media.
  • Up to the minute access to homes that come on the market, bringing them directly to you.
  • Maximize Resale Potential:  Specific advise on home maintenance, or suggestions for upgrades that will enhance your property's resale value.
  • Let's Talk Market Value:  If buying, selling, refinancing, for insurance, estate planning or property tax purposes know the true value of the home. Discuss issues or new developments in the community that could effect property values
  • Help Wherever You Need It:  We can help you, a friend or family member secure the services of like minded real estate professionals all over the world.
  • Community Insight: Always happy to provide information on community amenities such as parks, schools, trails, and local special events.
  • My List of Pro's:  Consider us your source of referrals for all types of businesses, whether related to real estate or not. we have partnered with competent professionals from all types of businesses. 
    • Transaction Related:  Lenders, legal professionals,closing agents, home inspectors, pest control,insurance agents (home,auto,health) movers.
    • Other Business Professionals:  Financial Planners, Tax Professionals, Doctors, Dentists, Attorney's.
    • Home Repairs and Improvements: Handymen, general contractors, interior designers, roofers, painters, flooring installers, plumbing, electrical/HAVAC specialists.  
    • Landscape/Maintenance:  Yard and pool services, house cleaners, window washers.
If you need a referral to a provider that is not mentioned here, feel free to ask us; We may know just the person you are looking for!


**Member of Elk Grove Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, September 17, 2015

As Summer Comes to an End

It's hard to believe that summer is already just about over! The last day of summer is September 23rd and this means that fall is quickly approaching. 

Since fall is almost here, this means that school is back in session and this is a good time to revamp those routines that may have taken a backseat to fun over the summer. Whether you are a parent, college student, professor, none of the above or all of the above, allow September to be a month that refocuses your goals and the daily activities you conduct to achieve those goals. 

A routine is something that you do on a regular basis - usually with little attention to the fact that a routine is taking place. Routines occur often so they become habitual or second nature. Routines can seem dull and boring at times but they do not have to be. These are great ways to keep you focused on tasks and allows the ability to create a sense of stability in your life, monitor strengths, weaknesses and progress over time. When we do not have routines, our efforts can be scattered and have lack of direction. Routines also help with time-management. 

If you are a parent, routines can be especially important during this time of year because your kids are going back to school. They may need structure to get them accustomed to the academic environment again. Below are some suggestions on how you can develop and utilize routines in your life:
  • Establish realistic routines. Start small and establish more routines over time.
  • Use a whiteboard to make a daily (or it can be weekly/monthly) to-do list of items that are important and need to be accomplished. You can even use this whiteboard/chalk board to write down chores or extracurricular activities.
  • Try to have dinner together, as a family, and around the same time every day. Yes, life can be hectic at times, but dinner is a great time to unwind and recap the events that transpired during the day. This also allows everyone in the family to communicate with each other (face-to-face) on a daily basis.
  • Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day (or at least during the weekday). Some might think that this is for children only but adults can benefit from a consistent sleep pattern which can allow 
  • you to enjoy a deeper sleep.

Finances - Pay Yourself First

When you receive a paycheck, what is the first thing you do? Do you pay bills? Do you go grocery shopping? Perhaps, you indulge in a bit of 'retail therapy' and pick up items you've been wanting?

Most people pay bills when they get paid because bills are usually one of the major reasons people even go to work (aside from those that actually enjoy their jobs and work for personal fulfilment). Bills usually consist of paying expenses that are vital to our survival and/or help us maintain a comfortable lifestyle. After bills are paid, the 'leftover' money is able to be spent however a person see's fit.

The idea of 'paying yourself first' is making sure that a certain percentage of your income (which can be decided by you) is paid to you before any other 'bills' are paid. That's right, 'paying yourself first' allows you to treat yourself like a high-priority bill!

Some might not see the importance of paying yourself at first but it is an important concept. The money that you put away should be allocated towards the investment of your future. For instance, this money might go towards your 401k or some type of retirement plan. This money is not usually something that is spent - it is invested. Depending on your personal financial situation, you might just want to put the money away towards your 'rainy day fund' as well to have available in the case of an emergency.

Whatever the case, make yourself a priority and 'pay yourself first' and make sure that you invest in your future.

Personal Interest - Labor Of Love

Often times, our summer is filled with relaxation, sleep-overs, BBQs, picnics, theme parks and most importantly our loved ones. As the summer ends and fall begins, you may find that your schedule becomes more hectic. This hectic schedule may often be filled with things that are required and not things that are leisure or particularly 'fun' to do. Because of this, take the Labor Day holiday to spend it with friends, family and people you love.

This Labor Day, try throwing an event to celebrate the holiday. Maybe initiate a BBQ and invite your friends and family over. Or you might want to arrange a beach day (just make sure everyone goes early because the beaches can get crowded rather quickly). Another idea is a final summer weekend getaway where you can go somewhere (local or far) to celebrate the holiday. Whatever type of event you decide to do, make sure you take some time to appreciate those people you enjoy the most.

If you have a bit of extra time on your hands, you could even create some type of keepsake to give to those that come to the holiday party. For instance, maybe you and your friends/family went on a camping trip together - you could create a scrapbook of the event or even a cool t-shirt to remember #summer2015. Also, physical keepsakes are unique these days because of the use of online social media so this idea might be a pleasant surprise that no one would expect.

Spending some time with the people you enjoy the most is a great way to end the summer and welcome the fall.

Courtesy of Blair Chapman   Summit Funding

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Autumn Short and Long Trips


Holiday in Autumn
 
image: family in car driving in fallWhy give summer all the credit? There are plenty of places to take day trips or vacations during the fall, and of course, they aren't as expensive as other "peak" vacation times.

Here are a few ideas for fun family trips that will be easy on your budget!

Fall foliage drives highlight the wonders of nature and spark imagination in adults and children alike, making it the perfect reason to take a road trip. Here are 10 scenic drives around the country you won't soon forget. Also make sure to download Yankee magazine's Leaf Peepr app, which crowdsources where foliage is currently peaking or just about to, making it easy to find the best locations.

Corn mazes are cropping up all over. Find a local version, or check out one of the 11 most popular corn maze locations. A few tips: Bring good shoes, something warm to wear and fully charged cell phones in case someone gets lost. For larger mazes, it's recommended you start out no later than 1:00 p.m. And don't worry, these often have "early exits" in case you don't finish (as well as other activities like mini mazes, hayrides and pumpkin patches for kids.)

Florida and Caribbean vacations offer tremendous bargains during fall for one reason: hurricane season. While hurricanes are a possibility from late summer through November, many hotels in the hurricane zone now offer hurricane guarantees that allow you to cancel without penalty if a hurricane is forecasted during your stay.

Take a haunted hiatus at one of these 8 not-so-spooky spots including theme parks, zoos, aquariums and cruise lines, which offer special deals from mid-September through early November. You can also look up the coolest Halloween events in your area of the country for even more fun. Wear your outfit more than once when you visit a nearby Renaissance, Medieval or Pirate Faire!

Affordable getaways may be found coast-to-coast, from September in Orlando toOctober in San Diego to those long Columbus DayVeterans Day, or even Thanksgivingweekends. Or you can set up a Google alert to track Restaurant Weeks, Fairs and Festival announcements for the city or cities of your choice.

Source: About Travel
 

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Why We Work By Referrals

Relationships are more important than transactions.  You may have noticed that many real estate agents take the transactional approach to sales------identifying clients, closing the deal, and then moving on to the next one.  We choose not to work that way because we believe you deserve more from a professional you decide to work with.   That's why we work by referral.

Since our primary source of new business is referrals from people who know and trust us, We can dedicate ourselves fully to the activities that benefit you and your referrals most and always deliver exceptional service.

We pride ourselves on always being available when you need us.  We answer our phones, and call you back in a timely manner.  Most often we make ourselves available 7 days a week, We live, work, and play in the immediate area so we are usually just a phone call away.  

Please don't forget us when friends or  relatives talk about buying or selling a home.




Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Bob Vila's Fall Maintenance Tips

Fall is just around the corner: time to get your house in shape for the cooler months ahead. Although autumn can be one of the busiest seasons for homeowners preparing for winter, it’s also the best time to take advantage of the moderate weather to repair any damages before the first frost sets in. Here are some home maintenance ideas that will keep your home running in peak condition all winter long.
EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE
Check foundation for cracks and caulk around the areas where masonry meets siding, where pipes or wires enter the house, and around the windows and door frames to prevent heat from escaping. “Caulking and sealing openings is one of the least expensive maintenance jobs,” says Michael Hydeck, Hydeck Design Build, Inc., Telford, PA, and National President, National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). “Openings in the structure can cause water to get in and freeze, resulting in cracks and mold build up,” he says. “Regardless of whether you live in a cold or warm climate, winter can bring very harsh conditions resulting in water or ice damage. A careful check of the outside structure combined with inexpensive maintenance can save you money in the long run.”
Install storm windows and doors and remove screens. Before storing, clean and repair screens, spray with a protective coating and place in a dry area of the basement or garage.
Inspect exterior walls to see if any paint is peeling or blistering on the house or outbuildings. According to Carl Minchew, Director,Benjamin Moore Paints, “Peeling paint is a sign that the existing paint film is failing and can no longer protect the siding of the building. Left uncorrected, the siding itself will deteriorate, leading to expensive repairs in the future.”
Make sure the roof is in good shape. Inspect for missing and loose shingles. “Ice, rain, snow and wind combined with rapidly changing temperatures and humidity wreak havoc on roofs,” says Jay Butch, Director, Contractor programs for CertainTeed Roofing. “Your roof is your first defense in protecting your home. Without it functioning properly, water damage can occur. This causes deterioration to insulation, wood and drywall, making electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems vulnerable. It’s better to proactively deal with repairs in the fall than to discover a leaky roof during a snowstorm. For safety’s sake, have a licensed, certified roofing professional check the condition of your roof.”
After leaves have fallen, clean out the gutters and downspouts, flush them with water, inspect joints, and tighten brackets if necessary. Clogged gutters are one of the major causes of ice dams. Replace old or damaged gutters with new ones that have built-in leaf guards.
Examine your pool cover for damage and replace if necessary.
Weather-strip your garage door. Make sure the seal between your garage door and the ground is tight to prevent drafts and keep out small animals.
Inspect your driveway for cracks. Clean out and repair any damage with driveway filler, then coat with a commercial sealer.
INTERIOR MAINTENANCE 
“Heating and cooling amount to 47% of the energy costs in your home. Proper sealing and insulation can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs, or up to 10% on your total annual energy bill,” says Katie Cody, spokeswoman for Lowe’s. “Air leaks from windows and doors are easy to find by moving your hand around the frame. Applying weather stripping and caulk to these areas will help cut down on drafts.”
Have your heating system checked by a licensed heating contractor. Heating systems will use fuel more efficiently, last longer and have fewer problems if properly serviced. 
Get your woodstove and fireplace in working order. Gary Webster, Creative Director of Travis Industries, suggests that you examine your wood stove or fireplace insert’s door gasket for a tight seal. Also clean and inspect the glass door for cracks and have the chimney cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep. “A clogged chimney poses the risk of a chimney fire, which can be ignited by burning creosote—a combination of wood tar, organic vapors and moisture buildup,” says Webster.
Change the direction of your ceiling fan to create an upward draft that redistributes warm air from the ceiling.
Test and change the batteries in your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and keep extra household batteries on hand.
Check basement windows for drafts, loose frames or cracked panes.
Vacuum internal parts of air conditioners. Remove units from windows or wrap outside box with an approved tarp or plastic air conditioner cover in order to prevent rusting of vital parts.  
Clean your humidifiers regularly during the heating season. Bacteria and spores can develop in a dirty water tank resulting in unclean moisture misting out into your room.
YARD AND GARDEN
Organize your garage. Clean and store summer garden tools.
Clear leaves from lawn, reseed patchy areas, and plant spring flowering bulbs. If deer are a problem, start deer-proofing by covering plants with netting and chicken wire.
Prepare your yard equipment for storage. This includes draining fuel from all gas-operated equipment such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and chain saws. 
Check to see that all of your snow equipment is up and running before the first flurry falls. Organize your snow clearing gear. When snow arrives you’ll want to have shovels, roof rakes and snow blowers where you can get to them. “Be careful where you store equipment,” says Travis Poore, The Lawn Ranger, a Home Depot Community Expert. “An outbuilding may not be as well insulated as a garage incorporated into a house. Equipment that is stored out in the elements, exposed to heat and cold extremes, can develop problems when the gasoline can no longer vaporize and flow into the combustion chamber of the engine.”
Drain garden hoses and store them inside. Also shut off outdoor water valves in cold weather. Any water left in exterior pipes and faucets can freeze and expand breaking the pipes.
Inspect and fill bird feeders. Keep in mind that once you start feeding birds you should continue on a regular basis throughout the winter months.
Fertilize the lawn with a high phosphorous mix to ensure healthy grass in the spring.
PORCH AND DECK
Check the supports, stairs, and railings on porches and decks. Make sure the handrails can support someone slipping on snow or ice. 
Clean porch and deck furniture, and look for any needed repairs. Cover and store outdoor furniture and barbecues in a protected area.
for more good tips and ideas visit:
http://www.bobvila.com/articles/1499-fall-home-maintenance-checklist/?bv=sm#.Ve9gDxFViko

How did The Housing Market Do In July?




image: items on display for yard saleThis month's autumn equinox may usher in darker days, but the housing sector continues to shine brightly.

July Housing Starts, marked by when excavation begins, exceeded expectations, coming in at an annual rate of 1.206 million. This is a 10 percent increase from July 2014. Single-family housing starts led the increase—unlike June's numbers, which were led by multifamily rental units.

Existing Home Sales surged in July, reaching their highest levels since 2007. Sales of new homes rebounded in July after a decline in June, and were up nearly 29 percent from July 2014.

Research firm CoreLogic reported that home prices rose 6.5 percent in June, marking the 40th consecutive month of year-over-year gains. CoreLogic cited pent-up demand, affordability and a more robust labor market for the gains. Home prices continue to appreciate at what is considered normal levels, after double digit gains seen in 2014.

Economy "Springing" to Life
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) improved in the second quarter, rising by 3.7 percent, which was well above the 0.6 percent recorded in the first quarter. GDP is the broadest measure of economic activity, so this is a good sign our economy is headed in the right direction.

Will the Fed Act This Season?
The benchmark Fed Funds Rate (the short-term interest rate at which banks lend money to other banks overnight) made it through the heat of summer unchanged. So why is this rate important to homebuyers and homeowners?

The Fed Funds Rate has been called "the most potent tool" for regulating the U.S. economy. When the economy needs a boost, the rate is lowered. When inflation is too high, the rate increases. These shifts have a direct impact on spending, employment and other rates—including home loan rates.

Analysts disagree about whether the Fed will raise the Fed Funds Rate at its meetings in September, October or December of this year, or wait until next year. One thing is certain: the Fed will be watching all sectors of the economy as it evaluates this important decision.

The Bottom Line
For now, home loan rates remain attractive. If you have any questions about the housing market and home loans, please don't hesitate to contact me. 

As posted on You Magazine

Friday, September 4, 2015

Fannie Mae recently announced its new HomeReady mortgage that will replace MyCommunityMortgage, Fannie’s previous affordable lending product.  This new product will allow both first-time and repeat homebuyers to purchase a home using HomeReady with a down payment of as little as 3%.
The latest product is designed to help creditworthy borrowers with lower and moderate incomes access to an affordable, sustainable mortgage.
“HomeReady will help qualified borrowers access the benefits of homeownership with competitive pricing and sustainable monthly payments,” said Jonathan Lawless, vice president for underwriting and pricing analytics at Fannie Mae.
Read the full story here.
If you are interested in providing your insight into the market please email us at:  editor@RE-Insider.com and we'll be happy to feature you in our "Faces of the Industry" stories.

Thursday, September 3, 2015

How to Get Hired


How to Get Hired
 
image: woman interviewing for a jobThe competition for jobs performed by highly qualified people can become quite fierce. In this environment you need every possible edge to help you land the job. Here are eight of the most common trips and traps to overcome during job interviews.
  1. Not doing your homework.
    Employers want more than a warm body in their organization, so it's important to be prepared when you attend your interview. First, do a little homework about the company to make sure you know what they do and why it's a fit for you. Next, ask a friend to help you with a few practice questions targeted to your industry. You may be expected to prove your understanding of this company's business situation and why you're the best fit for the job.
  2. Getting too comfortable.
    Be relaxed but also professional. Don't allow yourself to become overly familiar and say something (even jokingly) that you might regret later.
  3. Pretending you don't have any weaknesses.
    Showing you're human doesn't mean surrendering the job. If you're asked, "What are your weaknesses?" don't pretend you don't have any. Instead, develop an answer (ahead of the interview, not on the spot) that illustrates how you have learned from past mistakes.
  4. Talking too much.
    It may happen—the interview goes silent and you sit nervously wondering if you should "add some color" and details to your last answer. It might also, however, be a tactic to see how you handle pressure. If you have answered the question, keep cool and keep quiet, or politely ask if there is anything else the interviewer would like you to explain.
  5. Talking too little.
    On the other hand, you don't want to be overly brief. Responding with curt "yes" or "no" answers makes the interviewer work too hard. Reply to each question thoroughly and confidently so the interviewer can tell if you're a fit for the position.
  6. Not asking any questions.
    Show your interviewer you've got "higher-altitude" questions about the job, the company's situation in its marketplace and the hiring manager's priorities. You can prepare questions ahead of time, but sometimes the best ones will come from paying attention to the interviewer and allowing questions to spring organically from your conversation.
  7. Groveling.
    Though you may really want (and even need) the job, don't overdo it with brownnosing or lavishing compliments. The key is to not act desperate—doing so can allow you to come across as wheedling and insecure.
  8. Being a robot.
    View an interview as a genuine conversation with someone in which you are truly interested. All you have to do is be yourself and participate. Don't follow rigid interview scripts; you will only make yourself more nervous by pressuring yourself to memorize words. Instead, show what you know and let them lead the way.
Sources: General Employment Enterprises, LinkedIn
 

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Thinking of Going Back to Work Now School Is In


9 Résumé Refreshers
image: girl reading résuméRefreshing your résumé is a task that should be scheduled at least once per year, early in the year, both as a reminder of where you've been and to give you a jump-start on a successful year ahead. Here are nine ways to make sure you stand apart from the crowd:

Telegraph your passion. Your résumé should instantly communicate a laser-focused headline. In marketing, this technique is called "telegraphing." Here are some examples:
"CPA Backed by Corporate Audit Experience"
"Real Estate Professional 15 Years Locally"
"Graphic Design and Animation Specialist"
Open with a bang. Underneath your headline, in one or two sentences at most, summarize your best points and experience. If you're thinking about a career change, target the specific field in this section. Avoid making your résumé too general; broader is not better when employers are looking for specific skills.

Upgrade the basics. Refresh your employment, skills and accomplishments so that any job changes, promotions, expanded responsibilities and new skills are included.

Add professional activities. Professional development shows your passion for your career, so don't forget to include any activities completed, certificates, degrees, courses and in-service training.

Mention memberships. Professional organizations, industry conferences, and training programs you've completed also show your commitment to develop into an asset that employers want to hire.

Edit the old stuff. Adding new information to your résumé only makes it longer, so make sure to decrease the details on older or less relevant experience. Expendable items include obsolete technology, software and where you went to high school if you now have a college degree.

Show it around. Don't rely solely on a spellchecker or your own eyes to proofread for mistakes. Ask a few colleagues and friends to look things over carefully.

Collect your kudos. Start a file for your successes: performance reviews, complimentary notes, congratulatory emails, thank you cards, and especially details of quantifiable results such as percentages, dollar amounts, and before and after comparisons. With this information you can punch up your résumé at a moment's notice.

Don't forget the web. Apply these tips to your online presence. Don't forget your LinkedIn profile, and also add any kudos received to a website or blog to give yourself a boost of social proof.

Source: Monster