Keppie Careers

Social media speaker, social media consultant, job search coach

Buzz about Social Networking for Career Success

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When I’ve spoken or emailed with other authors, inevitably, someone mentions they didn’t realize trying to promote their book was going to take as long as it did to write it! You may have noticed (uh hum) I’ve been doing a lot of promoting myself for Social Networking for Career Success!

Different experts have different advice about book sales, selling and timing, but I’d love to have a very strong first month launch! Amazon is selling my book for around $11 – what a deal! Or, you should be able to get it at your local bookstore. Just ask and they’ll either have a copy or be able to order it for you. If you’d like to learn more about how social networking can propel your business or job hunt forward, I think my book can help. Take a look at what the community of colleagues and expert advisers thought about it!

“Social media can absolutely help you get hired — and this book has all the answers on how to make it happen.”

—Tory Johnson, CEO, Women For Hire

“This is a “must read” for anyone committed to professional success in the new era.”

—Martin Yate CPC, New York Times bestseller and author of Knock ’em Dead Secrets & Strategies

“Social Networking for Career Success is a great beginner’s cookbook for understanding and using social media to enhance your professional life. If you don’t know where to start in the cyber-networking kitchen, read this book.”

—Eve Tahmincioglu, Author, From the Sandbox to the Corner Office and MSNBC.com Career Columnist

“Miriam Salpeter has truly composed a masterpiece in social media and personal branding, combining the power of her own vast expertise and that of the industry’s top-rated thought leaders into one of the most comprehensive online career guides I have ever read. Every page contains actionable, credible and relevant advice that you can follow immediately to both start advancing your brand and your career.”

—Chris Perry, Founder of CareerRocketeer.com

“Mastering social media is imperative for today’s job seekers. Miriam’s book is the perfect toolkit to ensure that you are maximizing your online brand and putting your best foot forward in a digital world.”

—Chris Russell, CEO, AllCountyJobs.com

“Social Networking isn’t a task we should dread doing, it’s a skill we should want to develop. Every job is temporary and we are businesses—of-one. So, developing a personal brand that allows us to promote our professional strengths on a larger scale could be the one thing that keeps us employed—both now and in the future. Miriam Salpeter’s new book is the ideal guide to help you learn to leverage social networking for your career. The resource list alone is worth the price!”

—J.T. O’Donnell, CEO of CareerHMO.com and founder of CAREEREALISM.com

If you are looking for a great resource for online tools and your career, you’ve found it!

—Jason Alba, CEO of job search organizer JibberJobber.com and author of I’m on LinkedIn—Now What???

“Social networking to land a job is nothing new, but Miriam’s book offers plenty of advice I’ve never even thought of before—and I write about this on a daily basis! Social Networking for Career Success is broken into easily digestible chunks of information that will benefit everyone from college students to experienced professionals. It’s a whole new world of job hunting out there!”

—Heather R. Huhman, Founder & President, comerecommended.com

“Miriam has assembled the ultimate go-to-guide for the modern job seeker. The advice is clear and concise, the tools easy to understand and the value undeniable. You need to read this book.”

—Mark Stelzner, Founder of JobAngels

“This is a crucial book for anybody—regardless of age, education level, industry, or function—to gain a career edge and succeed in a world where social media has become as essential as the printed resume used to be. Social Networking for Career Success shows you how to gain access to the best opportunities, before they are posted to the general public, and is a resource that you will refer to again and again.”

—Andrew Neitlich, co-Author, Guerrilla Marketing for a Bulletproof Career

“Miriam Salpeter is a true leader in the social networking world and in her book, “Social Networking for Career Success,” she shares her expert advice for social media users of all levels and career goals. This book should be on the shelf or e-reader of anyone who is serious about career success in today’s hyper-connected world. Highly recommended.”

—Lindsey Pollak, author of Getting from College to Career: 90 Things to Do Before You Join the Real World

“Pure gold! It contains something for everyone, at any level. Consider it a must-read for anyone who wants to understand social media! Social Networking for Career Success oozes credibility with real life examples and success stories and the simple to understand, actionable steps, make it too easy NOT to do!”

—Hannah Morgan, CareerSherpa.net

“Miriam Salpeter is effervescent; she is action behind her words. Her reputation as a global careerist with profound, yet easy-to-relate-to social networking advice entices job seekers, careerists and entrepreneurs to her virtual doors to learn the social media dance. Her new book, Social Networking for Career Success exudes her charm and energy while piling up stacks of virtual career networking resources in a compact, easily digestible format.”

—Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, Master Resume Writer, Chief Career Writer and Partner of CareerTrend.net, Cofounder of the Career Collective

“Social Networking for Career Success is the most comprehensive resource I’ve seen on using all aspects of social networking in job search and career advancement. This reader-friendly guide is destined to become a bible for savvy careerists who want to integrate the most effective social tools to get ahead.”

—Katharine Hansen, associate publisher/creative director, Quintessential Careers (quintcareers.com)

“If you’ve applied for a job online and don’t know what to do next, this book is the answer. It is clear, concise and filled with actionable information sure to supercharge your job search or entrepreneurial endeavor. I defy you to do all that is written herein and not get a job or boost the branding of your enterprise.”

—Jim Stroud, www.JimStroud.com

“Social Networking for Career Success is the modern job seeker’s insider guide to job search and career management success. Miriam shares all the secrets, sites, and strategies to put anyone, including a web novice, at home in confidently navigating the otherwise complex web of social media job search to identify and win the job.”

—Laura DeCarlo, President of the global association, Career Directors International; creator of the Certified Professional in Online Job Search & Reputation Management; and author of Interviewing: The Gold Standard, Job Search Bloopers, and Interview Pocket RX.

“Miriam Salpeter is a job seeker’s best friend. Her business is helping others use social media to land their next job… and she does so beautifully! Now, there are others out there who ‘get’ social media, but can’t teach it, and even more who can teach it, but don’t have anything unique to say. Miriam is one of the only social media gurus who consistently and clearly shares a simple, yet unique, strategy for using social media to land your next gig. Read this book if you are still unsure how to really maximize your time on the various, emerging social media platforms available; I assure you, you will emerge much more knowledgeable and armed for your job search. This book is well worth the money, and highly recommended!!”

—Laura M. Labovich, Founder, Aspire! Empower! Career Strategy Group

“Social Networking for Career Success is a head above other social media resources. Miriam is a respected blogger and experienced social media pro who provides strategic insights and technical guidance. She anticipates her readers’ questions, deftly transitioning from the high view to the essential details. This is the must read guide for anyone who wants to use social networking to access new career opportunities.”

—Debra Feldman, Executive Talent Agent, JobWhiz

“Miriam has successfully used social networks to advance her personal brand. This book will show you how you can do the same!”

—Dan Schawbel, author of Me 2.0 and founder of Millennial Branding

“Today more than ever it’s critical to know how to navigate the digital ecosystem. This book provides readers with real world stories and advice on how to leverage social networking to find a job or simply advance their career.”

—Robyn Cobb, VP Digital Influence, Ogilvy Public Relations

“This really—seriously!—is a must-read book for everyone, unemployed or not! Excellent, landmark book—the best I’ve read on this topic! Social media and social networks are dramatically impacting the job search/recruiting landscape for all of us, and the velocity of change is picking up. So, smart people will read and implement Miriam’s suggestions before they need to job search, because to ignore this technological revolution is to be left behind—waaaayyyy behind. And, very few of us can afford that!

—Susan P. Joyce, Editor/Publisher, Job-Hunt.org

“Social Networking for Career Success is a comprehensive, well-organized guide for any professional or job-seeker to advance his or her career. Whether you are a passive candidate or engaged in an active job search, this book will prove to be a valuable resource in managing your online presence and creating a positive brand that will attract employers.”

—Andrea Santiago, Guide to Health Careers at About.com

“We use social networking sites everyday to check-in, update our friends and share ideas with the world. But what if you need to find a job or establish a new career? Miriam’s book offers practical and strategic advice to build your online brand along with examples of people doing it right.”

—Tim Tyrell-Smith, Founder of Tim’s Strategy and author of 30 Ideas: The Ideas of Successful Job Search

“Social Networking for Career Success is basic enough for those who are clueless about social media, yet rich enough to offer social media pros information they likely don’t already know.”

—Vivian Steir Rabin and Carol Fishman Cohen, Co-authors, Back on the Career Track

“No one knows the intersection of social media and careers better than Miriam Salpeter. I am always learning something new from her, and thanks to Social Networking for Career Success, you will too! The best thing about this book is its substantial detail – by the time you’re finished, you’ll be ready to take advantage of dozens social networking strategies you didn’t even know existed.”

—Alexandra Levit, Author of New Job, New You: A Guide to Reinventing Yourself in a Bright New Career

“Miriam not only shows you how to efficiently and effectively use social media tools to land your dream career, she also gives you some valuable insight into how you can make it easy for employers to find you. And she does it with a little bit of humor and spunk!”

—Heather McGough, Microsoft Recruiter since 2000

I’d be thrilled if you’d order a copy! Or, tell a friend? Thanks for your support.

photo by mrjoro

Think about how your body language may impact your job hunt

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If you’re looking for a job and thinking ahead to the interview stage, I’m betting you’re checking out interview books and practicing interview questions, which isn’t a bad idea. However, have you considered practicing the communication skills you’ll need to help you land a job?

Interpreting body language is an important element of good listening. Think about it – eye contact, nodding, leaning in to listen – all of these help your conversation partner recognize how engaged you are and helps him or her feel valued as part of a conversation. Body language is key to helping you succeed in business, or any field.

Body language may be more important than you think in a job hunt.

Kate Lorenz wrote about the topic for CareerBuilder.com. She said:

Research has shown that the first impression you make on an interviewer really sticks. In one study, untrained subjects were shown 20- to 32-second videotaped segments of job applicants greeting their interviewers. When the subjects rated the applicants on attributes like self-assurance and likeability, their assessments were very similar to the interviewers’ — who had spent more than 20 minutes with each applicant.

Seems like focusing on your body language – and first impressions – matters – a lot!

I once wrote a term paper about the importance of body language. The quote I remember from it,

“Don’t underestimate the power of body language,”

from The Little Mermaid, is no less true today!

(Yes, I really quoted a Disney movie in my paper.)

Did you know that people who are positive and confident outperform their peers in their job searches? Research shows that persistence and a postive attitude pay off in the job hunt. You can always pick out a pessimist by his or her body language – slumped shoulders, eyes down, expressionless (or frowning). No one wants to hire someone who seems sad or pessimistic. Straighten up, smile and make eye contact. Your body language speaks louder than your words.

In fact, research also shows that body language makes up more than half of how our communication is perceived. That means that you may be describing your greatest business accomplishment, but if your posture isn’t good and you don’t make effective eye contact, you might as well tell the interviewer about the time you lost your portfolio on the way to a presentation.

Another telling body language tool is the handshake.

How many times do we have to tell you – strong and firm gets the job done! BusinessWeek wrote about several different types of handshakes to use and some to avoid. Eye contact along with a firm handshake can make a world of difference to how you are being perceived.

Remember – the little things matter.

In fact, the “little things” may actually be the BIG things! Focus on every aspect of your presentation to ensure that you put your best foot forward with your job search.

photo by Gerwin Filius

Career lessons from a royal wedding

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Did you get up to watch the royal wedding? I did! I’m a royal watcher from way back.

Unlike the last royal weddings I arose early to view, this time, I am thinking of the career lessons from the story.

Everyone seems to be making a major point of how Catherine and William hold the burden of the whole country — the future of England and the monarchy — on their shoulders. Can you imagine a bigger job?

These are the lessons I’m considering. Feel free to suggest your ideas in the comments!

– Be prepared and take your time. The newlyweds have been together a long time, presumably giving Catherine plenty of opportunity to decide if she wanted the job. While no one wants that type of “courtship” for a position (some interview processes already seem eternal), the lesson here is to remember the job seeker is also evaluating the fit for the opportunity. Keep your eyes open; decide if you will be happy working for the organization, and don’t be dazzled or desperate.

– Make it your own — within reason. A lot of the television coverage I watched made a big deal of how the couple wanted to put their stamp on the wedding ceremony. They wanted it to feel like “their,” intimate service, despite the millions watching. Commentators believed they succeeded. The career lesson? Be yourself, but keeping in mind the greater expectations. Other couples may have had a lot more leeway in their music choices, for example. Let’s face it, there were certain expectations for this service that were likely non-negotiable. Similarly, job seekers need to take expectations into account and target their materials and efforts to appeal to their audience (the hiring decision makers).

– Rely on your supporters. William has his brother, Harry. Catherine has sister, Pippa. From what the media suggests, both take the role of helping out, serving as confidants and merry makers. I just heard Pippa is bringing in glitter balls for the party tonight at the palace. We’ve heard for years how Harry and his brother support and rely on each other. If you are looking for a job, be sure to create and rely on your network. Identify your go-to people for different “jobs.” Maybe you have a “fun” friend or colleague who’s the one you contact when you want some comic relief. Another empathizes when you’re having a tough time. Don’t go it alone.

– Practice. The vows. The kiss. Diana actually flubbed Charles’ four-part name (reversing two of them) during her vows in 1981. I can bet Catherine and William practiced their vows, and there’s talk they even had a “rehearsal” for “the kiss” to help photographers get the angles right. It’s a kiss, but everyone (okay, a LOT of people) are watching. How often do you rehearse what you will say in an interview? Out loud? Try it – answer the question, “Why should we hire you?” on a regular basis. I’ve even suggested taping that inquiry to your bathroom mirror and responding every time you see it.

– Dress the part. Many people in the crowds watching the wedding are dressed, hats and the whole bit. I’m sure it makes the whole thing feel much more fun and festive. How can you not feel “in the moment” wearing one of those crazy hats that perch on the side of your head? 🙂 Some suggest dressing up even for a phone interview, just to be “in the moment.” Think about it — what you wear matters!

– Exceed expectations. The married couple came out for the big kiss – and surprised the crowd with a second kiss! What can you do to go above and beyond? It’s up to you to stand out and differentiate!

What do you think?

Personal Branding Magazine – CEO strategies

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The latest issue of Dan Schawbel’s Personal Branding Magazine is available. (I am co-editor along with Jessica Lewis.) Dan explains, “Volume 4, Issue 4 is focused on CEO branding strategies, leadership and corporate culture. We interviewed some of the leading CEOs from across multiple industries, including Deloitte and Campbells, to present multiple perspectives on personal branding from the top down. The strength of the CEO brand can be attributed to the overall success of a company, regardless of size. Employees look to the CEO for guidance, leadership and personality.”

Features:

  • Full paid issue (May 1st): 25 articles total
  • Sample issue: 9 articles total, including how to make a good first impression, how to manage your digital image, and wardrobe tips.
  • Interviews with: Doug Conant (CEO of Campbells), Jim Quigley (CEO of Deloitte), Bob Taylor (CEO of Taylor Guitars), Sam Calagione (CEO of Dogfish Head), Brian Halligan (CEO of Hubspot), and Andy Boynton (Dean of the Carroll School of Management at Boston College).

Be sure to click through or subscribe for useful information, insights and details!

How many votes is your social network worth? (Help a friend!)

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One of the best things about social media is it gives job seekers an opportunity to pick an area where they can excel — it’s different for every job seeker. Some are great using video, others may want to blog. Many more can share expertise via Twitter in 140 characters or less and connect with potential colleagues and contacts.

At the same time, some employers are using social media and thinking “outside of the box” when it comes to hiring. A case in point, a friend recently let me know his sister, Amy Bailey, is in the running for an awesome job at HopScout. They are looking for 5 editors to write guest posts, test products and be community managers of sorts. They also want their editors to be buyers and attend trade shows. The job is targeted to stay-at-home parents who want a little work and money on the side.

Instead of advertising and asking for resumes, they require applicants to post a video on Facebook and are running an online vote to select finalists. It makes a lot of sense, as it not only tests video skills (part of the job), but also the applicants’ ability to leverage the social web. It’s kind of a “social proof” job interview screen. People may say, “I have this many friends or “likes” on Facebook” or “X people follow me on Twitter,” but it comes down to actually calling a community to action to secure votes and convince people to take a minute to vote! People who can do that can also probably get the job done!

I asked Amy what she thinks about the process from the job-seeker’s side:

This method of interviewing people puts a minor barrier to entry, which is a great way to weed out applicants. It’s a lot easier to send off a resume that you’ve brushed up than to learn how to make a video you’d be willing to publish. They’ve received over 150) submissions so far, and if they’d asked for resumes, I’m guessing that number could easily be much higher.

The first stage of this process focuses on the number of votes your video gets, though other factors (creativity, innovation, fair play, quality of content and sense of humor) may be considered as well.  I see the point of focusing on popularity because on one hand, this is an e-marketing job that relies on building a social network. At the same time, the votes aren’t necessarily coming from anyone from the target market of the site.  However, Hopscout’s Facebook page has netted over 10,000 likes in a little over a week, primarily due to this contest, so it seems to be a successful marketing campaign regardless of the outcome.

I’m impressed that they’re so optimistic – that before the contest started, they believed 25% of their top-voted videos would have been made by people who can get the job done – people who can write, appeal to an audience and give fair (and fun) evaluations of products. I think that took a lot of faith on their part, but I think it was a smart move – there are some great videos and some very creative moms and dads, and hopefully that will translate into the kind of employees they’re looking for. If they hire me, their plan definitely worked. 😉

If my video is one of the top 20 videos (I could really use your support!), then I’ll get a chance to review a product and show them that I’m worth hiring. They’ll hire five people from this second stage of the interview process.

Consider this…You never know when you’ll need to – or want to – leverage a community to help you land a job. You may never be in a situation where you need actual votes via Facebook to get a position, but when you think about it, isn’t any endorsement or referral kind of like a “vote?” I believe the biggest benefit to social networking is the ability to grow your network and expand the number of people who know and like you well enough to care if you get a job or a gig. The more people out there rooting for you, the more likely you are to score the opportunity you want.

I hope you’ll vote for Amy, and leverage your networks to see if you can win her some votes. Why? Because she’s my friend’s sister, and I’d love to help her out. (A bonus? She’s actually perfect for this job based on her credentials!)  In the meantime, think about your own network and what “votes” you need to get to land your next gig!

Please vote for Amy HERE.