Monday, October 26, 2015

Revamping Your Career

Are you at a point in your life where you’re asking, “What’s next?” It’s time for a transition, but you’re midway through your career and not sure what to do next. The one thing you do know is that you want a job that gives you a sense of purpose.

Many of us face these transitions at midlife, but they can happen at any time. It’s a time full of enormous potential, and it defines a whole new phase of life.

 Join our Life Reimagined webinar presented by Richard Leider, motivational speaker and chief curator of content for AARP's Life Reimagined Institute. Leider will share the powerful practices and insights he’s developed to help you uncover your own special gifts, connect with people who can support you, and explore new directions. You will gain insight into how others have reimagined their lives in extraordinary ways.

Life Reimagined 

February 24, 2016, 8 pm EST 

Read more from Richard Leider about how to find and live your purpose.

 Visit the Life ReImagined Institute.

 For more practical tips and inspiring stories of how others have profited from their passions in semi-retirement, check out My Lifestyle Career 

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Strategic Networking

In 2003, university-led research confirmed the age-old notion of “six degrees of separation” as true, suggesting we are all much more connected than we realize. Our existing social networks can help us develop new relationships, build community, and advance our careers, but few of us know how to harness their power. Enter Dr. John-Paul Hatala, who has conducted years of research on social networking, social capital, and career development. Join Dr. Hatala, author of The Strategic Networker: A Learner’s Guide to Effective Networking, for our November 4 webinar and learn how to network more strategically and more successfully than you ever thought was possible.

The Strategic Networker
Nov. 4, 2015
8 pm EST

More advice on networking:
  • Are you an introvert who finds networking challenging? This article offers interviewing tips for you, and can be adapted to networking situations as well. For example, preparing carefully what you will say and what questions you will ask is helpful for speaking with someone at an informal interview or conference, as well as in interview situations. 

  • Can you ask for advice from someone you don't know? If the person is also a Tufts alum, you already have a community connection, which definitely helps. But what if they're not? Try this customized email approach. While I like the way this writer encourages people to reach out to a specific person they'd like to talk with, I would skip starting an email with, "Hello, my name is...." It's a brief email, and your name is right there at the bottom. Conciseness is really appreciated by busy people.

  • While we're talking networking, let's not forget LinkedIn. Check out this Business Insider article on some common LinkedIn mistakes. Some are pretty obvious: no typos in your profile! But even savvy users may see a helpful reminder or a new tip. And join the NEW Tufts Career Networking Group on LinkedIn to connect with more than 5,000 Tufts alums and offer advice to students and alumni.

  • Are you a good writer? Can you use your writing skills to build visibility and relationships? Yes, and this Mojo40 article offers tips on how to use your writing chops to connect with people you'd like to work with ... this networking secret for people who "hate networking."