Weddle talked about having the courage to break out of the box you created for yourself at work. He asserts that everyone can be an A-player at something! The trick is to identify that special and unique part of you!

So, what does Peter think are the most important traits that employers seek?

He says, “Employers value people who are accomplished, but who accept responsibility for continuing to engage and learn.” In other words, you may be the most accomplished CEO, but your resume includes evidence that you are learning a new language!

But, what other aspects are attractive to employers?

• Leadership
• You speak a second language
• Specific computer skills
• Flexibility

Not surprisingly, employers all want to work with winners! How can you be a winner? Stay tuned for more ideas!

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I liked this advice, as it echoes what I always tell my clients – “You drive your own career bus.” YOU are in charge of what direction you go, and you have choices about where to go next.

Weddle explained that the genome project taught us that humans are 97% similar! So, he suggested that we each offer 3% that is special and unique. Have you thought about that 3%? You need to focus and purposefully identify what you have to offer that makes you stand out from everyone else. It’s not enough to assume that it’s obvious or that everyone will recognize your talents. Stop, outline what you have to offer and focus on your goals. Then, move forward with intent.

Have you ever gone for a drive, but didn’t plan exactly where you wanted to end up? If you were lucky, you ended up at a great place for dinner or a nice spot to enjoy a water view. Other times, you just sort of drove and drove, but never really got anywhere? Sound familiar? You don’t want to take that chance with your career.

Weddle points out that the global markets are unforgiving. Stay tuned for more from Peter’s talk about what employers are seeking.

Need help to market your best skills? Peter says that EVERYONE can be an A-player. I can show you how! Contact me for help with your search.

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• There are four job seekers for every job.
• Companies are experiencing a reduction in structure.
• Less jobs will be recovered…Weddle is expecting a profound change in the market going forward, with a much leaner and meaner job market.

So, what does this mean for you? Is it time to pack it all in and give it up?

No, of course not! I believe that everyone has the choice regarding how to navigate his or her own career or job search. If you drive your own career bus, you can excel, even in a tough market. However, you can’t just “come as you are,” as Weddle noted. In the “old days,” all anyone needed to do to find a job is make a few calls or apply for enough jobs. With competition fierce and opportunities scarce, you need to do more.

You need to work on your career every day! Weddle described the “career jungle gym” that is replacing the old career ladder. He says that career advancement isn’t always about following the rungs of a ladder in one direction; it can mean moving sideways – as long as you keep your eye on your goal!

Stay tuned for more thoughts from Peter Weddle’s presentation and suggestions to help you improve your “career fitness.” Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

Are you “coming as you are” to your job hunt? Don’t make a mistake that will cost your time, money and sanity. I can help – contact me to discuss how!

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