10 Takeaways from the Book Career Comeback: Repackage Yourself to Get the Job You Want
When Lisa Johnson Mandell, a veteran entertainment journalist, wanted to relocate back to her home state of California, she faced an unexpected uphill battle during her job search.
Lisa discovered that younger, less-experienced talent was nabbing the roles she was after.
She documented the actions she took to land a dream role and crafted 10 steps to help other women wage a career comeback of their own.
Here’s a summary of what Lisa advises:
Reality check - First, take a realistic look at 5 aspects of your life: 1. Interests/passions 2. Skills/abilities 3. Lifestyle 4. Finances 5. Values; Figure out where you currently are and what you want in each category.
Know what you’re up against - In a tough market, you’ll face tough competition. Acknowledge generational differences and know your strengths and advantages.
Refresh yourself - Keep up with the latest trends and technology. Raise your ‘hip quotient’ by starting a Facebook page and scanning 1 current culture or news blog daily.
Look the part - Update your wardrobe, hair and makeup. You’re going for a pulled-together look.
Create a brand new you - Present yourself in a way that lets your potential employer know what you stand for and how you’re different from the rest. Carve out your own niche based on your strengths and passions (ex: Equestrian Lawyer).
Shine online - Start a personal blog that sets you apart, keeps you current and allows for potential employers to find you. [Editor’s note: or use LinkedIn for these purposes.]
Make the social net work - Connecting with your professional network online allows you to see a personal side of them. You can also expand your network, connect with recruiters/headhunters and even get offers.
Botox your resume - In order to make sure your resume doesn’t date you, you can take off less current work experience and your graduation year.
Interview like a rock star - Get plenty of sleep, dress the part (conservative chic), and include things in your bag like extra copies of your resume and pens. When answering questions, don’t criticize or complain about past employers, do come with interesting/insightful questions and be sure to follow up afterwards.
Know your rights (and wrongs) - If you feel you’ve been discriminated against based on age, know your rights and where to go for help (ex: Equal Employment Opportunity Commission).
Editor’s Notes:
Overall, I think Lisa offers practical advice to land a job in a heavily image-focused field, however - as I was reading the book, some of the appearance-based advice just didn’t sit well with me and this is why:
Personally, I don’t feel like you should have to change your appearance to be successful. I think the real change we should all push for is fighting bias and discrimination - against age and other factors - in the workplace.
Would love your thoughts as well.
What did you find interesting?
