Wednesday, 2 July 2014

How To Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile So Recruiters Come To You

Source: https://in.finance.yahoo.com/news/optimize-linkedin-profile-recruiters-come-163819460.html

Business Insider
Much of this is thanks to LinkedIn Recruiter, the company's $8,200-a-year  product for headhunters. 
As Harvard Business School professor Mikolaj Piskorski explains in his new book, "A Social Strategy: How We Profit From Social Media," this is one of the things that distinguishes LinkedIn from its peers: while friending someone on Facebook opens you up to their private life, making a LinkedIn connection doesn't avail that much more information about a person.
"LinkedIn is one of those sites where we form these connections and set these profiles," Piskorski tells Business Insider. "But people actually don't do a lot of communication on the platform with each other, relatively speaking." 
The value for users lies in searchability. 
"Most of the activity on LinkedIn is recruiters going and searching through your profiles again and again and again," Piskorski says. "That's where most of the action is." 
With that in mind, we were stoked to be sent the below infographic from British social media consultancy LinkHumans, which walks you through crafting a highly fetching profile.

LinkedIn Infographic FINAL

Tuesday, 1 July 2014

9 Things Rich People Do Differently Every Day

Source: http://www.businessinsider.in/9-Things-Rich-People-Do-Differently-Every-Day/articleshow/37266958.cms

By Libby Kane

warren buffett fortune summit

Paul Morigi / Stringer / Getty Images
What you do today matters.
In fact, your daily habits may be a major determinant of your wealth.
"The metaphor I like is the avalanche," says Thomas Corley, the author of "Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits Of Wealthy Individuals." "These habits are like snowflakes — they build up, and then you have an avalanche of success."
Corley spent five years studying the lives of both rich people (defined as having an annual income of $160,000 or more and a liquid net worth of $3.2 million or more) and poor people (defined as having an annual income of $35,000 or less and a liquid net worth of $5,000 or less).
He managed to segment out what he calls "rich habits" and "poverty habits," meaning the tendencies of those who fit in each group. But, Corley explains, everyone has some rich habits and some poverty habits. "The key is to get more than 50% to be rich habits," he says.
And what are those rich habits that are so influential? Here are a few:
Rich people always keep their goals in sight.
"I focus on my goals every day."
Rich people who agree: 62%
Poor people who agree: 6%
Not only do wealthy people set annual and monthly goals, but 67% of them put those goals in writing. "It blew me away," says Corley. "I thought a goal was a broad objective, but the wealthy said a wish is not a goal." A goal is only a goal, he says, if it has two things: It's achievable, and there's a physical action you can take to pursue it.
And they know what needs to be done today.
"I maintain a daily to-do list."
Rich people who agree: 81%
Poor people who agree: 19%
Not only do the wealthy keep to-do lists, but 67% of them complete 70% or more of those listed tasks each day. 
They don't watch TV.
"I watch TV one hour or less per day."
Rich people who agree: 67%
Poor people who agree: 23%
Similarly, only 6% of the wealthy watch reality shows, compared to 78% of the poor. "The common variable among the wealthy is how they make productive use of their time," explains Corley. "They wealthy are not avoiding watching TV because they have some superior human discipline or willpower. They just don't think about watching much TV because they are engaged in some other habitual daily behavior — reading."
They read … but not for fun.
"I love reading."
Rich people who agree: 86%
Poor people who agree: 26%
Sure, rich people love reading, but they favor nonfiction — in particular, self-improvement books. "The rich are voracious readers on how to improve themselves," says Corley. In fact, 88% of themread for self-improvement for 30 minutes each day, compared to 2% of poor people.
Plus, they're big into audio books.
"I listen to audio books during the commute to work."
Rich people who agree: 63%
Poor people who agree: 5%
Even if you aren't into audiobooks, you can make the most of your commute with any of these commute-friendly self-improvement activities.
They make a point of going above and beyond at the office.
"I do more than my job requires."
Rich people who agree: 81%
Poor people who agree: 17%
It's worth noting that while 86% of rich people (compared to 43% of poor) work an average of 50 or more hours a week, only 6% of the wealthy people surveyed found themselves unhappy because of work.
They aren't hoping to win the jackpot.
"I play the lottery regularly."
Rich people who agree: 6%
Poor people who agree: 77%
That's not to say that the wealthy are always playing it safe with their money. "Most of these people were business owners who put their own money on the table and took financial risks," explains Corley. "People like this aren't afraid to take risks."
They watch their waistline.
"I count calories every day."
Rich people who agree: 57%
Poor people who agree: 5%
Wealthy people value their health, says Corley. "One of the individuals in my study was about 68 and worth about $78 million. I asked why he didn't retire, and he looked at me like I was from Mars. He said, 'I've spent the last 45 years exercising every single day and watching what I eat because I knew the end of my career would be my biggest earning years.' If he can extend his career four to five years beyond everyone else, that's about $7 million for him."
And they take care of their smiles.
"I floss every day."
Rich people who agree: 62%
Poor people who agree: 16%
Enough said.

Job hunting online? Don't make these mistakes

Source: http://www.rediff.com/getahead/slide-show/slide-show-1-career-job-hunting-online-dont-make-these-mistakes/20130215.htm#1

Rajesh Nair, CEO, TopGear Consultants has advice for online job applicants.
Job hiring for almost 90 per cent of the companies happen online these days.
CVs are downloaded from job portals or networking sites and if the profile matches the requirement, the deserving candidates are approached and offered the job within a matter of days.
This trend will continue for the next few years.
Hence it is very important that you avoid some of these mistakes that are common among job seekers who apply online.

1. Applying for positions that don't match your profile


Although it seems very usual for candidates to apply only for roles that matches their profile, it is not always the case.
Most often, we find candidates with three years of experience applying for a senior management role even when it is clearly specified that profile demands 15 years of experience.
There are also candidates who apply for different roles in the same company.
If you think, you are merely taking a chance, I'd suggest you avoid doing it from the next time.
Applying for multiple positions in the same organisation will give a wrong impression to your prospective employer and chances are they might not take you seriously.
In fact, even if there is a position that matches your experience, the recruitment manager will not even consider you for it.

2. Having multiple online profiles


This is a very common trend these days.
Candidates sometimes have more than two profiles online, often contradictory to the other.
Recruiters will avoid such profiles at any given time and will in all probability doubt the credentials of such candidates.
We have encountered an incident when the candidate was shortlisted and about to be offered a position when then the HR manager discovered a second profile of this candidate online.

3. E-mail etiquette


While emailing your CV to the HR Manager you must follow certain etiquette to create a good impression.
Never misspell the name for whom the email is intended. S/he in all probability would be offended and your chances of getting an interview call is reduced.
If you are applying for a job and writing to Pranav Mistry, use "Dear Mr Mistry" (Not "Dear Mr. Pranav Mistry:" Use only last name after Mr/Ms/Dr)
If you know you're writing to Sonia Das, please use "Dear Ms Das:"
Assuming a woman's marital status is strictly avoidable. Therefore, don't use "Mrs" or "Miss" in business communication.
Use "Ms" for women, it's the feminine equivalent to the masculine "Mr".
The only exception to this rule is when a person uses those salutations for him/herself.
Avoid typing the covering note or any part with the Caps lock on as it means 'shouting' in the online world.
Subject line should never be kept empty.
It should be precise and mention the position you are applying for.
Never forward your CV as an attachment without an accompanying mail or covering letter.

4. Not keeping track


If you fail to keep a track of the jobs you have (randomly) applied for, you might be caught unawares when the recruiter calls you in response to your application.
The fact that you don't remember when or how you applied for that particular position actually questions your interest levels.

5. Not having enough keywords


While drafting your CV to apply online, you must be aware of the keywords that a recruiter might type to search for profiles that best matches the requirement.
Research well and use powerful words that will highlight your profile among the top searches.

6. The one-size-fits-all CV


It is common for most candidates to have that one CV for all positions.
Most of them don't bother updating or tweaking the elements to match the profile they are applying for.
This creates an impression that the job seeker is really desperate for work.
Expect the recipient to delete this mail before even reading it.
Research shows that e-mails written with proper salutations and addressed to the concerned person stands a better chance of being read and taken seriously.
By avoiding some of these mistakes, you will inch one step closer to your dream job.
With this hope, I wish you all the best!

10 reasons why your CV will be rejected

Source: http://www.rediff.com/getahead/slide-show/slide-show-1-career-10-reasons-why-your-cv-will-be-rejected/20140701.htm

Besides poor formatting and inaccurate information, there are a whole lot of things recruiters consider before turning down your application. Find out where you're going wrong...
What is a CV?
It's a snap shot of your skills, background and experience related to a specific field or multiple fields all written down for interested parties to read and relate to while identifying a candidate to fill a position within the organisation.
It is the first representation of a candidature to the organisation which is why it is important that your resume has to impress the employer in the first instant.
While candidates take great efforts to prepare their resume, there are some simple reasons why the job application which includes your resume could be possibly turned down.
1. Poor presentation
You may think your CV contains all important information about you.
However, if it is not presented in an aesthetically appealing format, the first impression may be a let down.
Use bullet points, highlighted text and readable font while drafting your CV.

2. False/inaccurate information


Candidates in their eagerness to make a good impression sometimes state incorrect qualifications, courses undertaken, past employment tenures, reasons for separation and awards received.
By now, you should be aware that most companies conduct employee verifications both online and offline.
Falsifying information or misrepresenting facts could end up with you being blacklisted from making any further applications in the company you so wanted to be a part of.

3. Autobiographies


Your CV is a snapshot of who you are.
While it should briefly demonstrate your skills and expertise, employers definitely do not want it to read like an autobiography.
Long winded CVs that run into pages are a put off and reflect the inability to be concise and meaningful.  
Keep it simple and short.

4. Complicated Formatting


Use consistent formatting and chronology of work stints.
Having too many design elements -- multiple fonts, coloured text, borders and tables -- diverts attention from actual content that may clinch you the job.

5. Language structure


Communication skills -- both writing and speaking -- are the most preferred employability skills among employers across domains.
Sending CVs with grammatical and spelling errors may indicate your inability to express clearly.
Written communication skills are an integral part of your profile if you are looking for a job in the legal, marketing, mass communication or human resources departments.

6. Multiple job changes


Yes, it is a dynamic market out there and positions which need your experience and expertise may be plenty.
However the trend of frequent job-hopping may indicate lack of stability and also reflect restlessness.
In some cases, employers may term it as your inability to evaluate an opportunity well and  unclear career direction.

7. Re-applying for same position within your organisation


Most companies that use their internal career portal to recruit can easily identify if you are re-applying for a position that you had already been interviewed but not considered to be recruited.
Unless you have gained the additional required experience and exposure that was missing during your first interview with same organisation, it is not advisable for you to reapply for the same position.

8. Tall claims


While most candidates frequently mention how they were part of a successful project or discuss the milestones they achieved, not all of them are able to describe how they contributed to the successes mentioned in their CV.
This could be a major reason for your CV to be rejected. 
Try to emphasise 'What I did' and back it up with relevant examples to claim credit.

9. Non-Poaching Agreement


Certain organisations endorse their employees to sign a non-poaching agreement.
This agreement restricts you from being employed by a rival organisation for a fixed or specific period of time after you've quit the previous organisation.
Try and explore whether your current employer has a No-Poach agreement with the company you want to apply for a job.
If, yes there may be legal constraints preventing your application from being considered.

10. Reference checks


Social networking platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook etc are the new reference check tools.
Companies and recruiters are known to take a quick check of your profiles to explore if there is a mismatch between what you've mentioned in your resume and the information that is open for public viewing on these sites.
Be sure to furnish information that is both accurate and credible across your CV and social profiles.
The above tips, we believe, will help you prepare a CV that will hit the bull's eye and land you the job of your dreams.

He clearly learned counting from somewhere else!! :)

Teacher: Can you count to 10? 

Pupil: Yes, teacher-one, two, three, four, five, six, seven... 

Teacher: Stop! Teacher points to another pupil - Now go on from there. 



Pupil: Eight, nine, ten, Jack, Queen, King.

Smart chauffeur!! :)

When Albert Einstein was making the rounds of the speaker's circuit, he usually found himself eagerly longing to get back to his laboratory work. One night as they were driving to yet another rubber-chicken dinner, Einstein mentioned to his chauffeur (a man who somewhat resembled Einstein in looks & manner) that he was tired of speechmaking. 

"I have an idea, boss," his chauffeur said. "I've heard you give this speech so many times. I'll bet I could give it for you." Einstein laughed loudly and said, "Why not? Let's do it!" When they arrive at the dinner, Einstein donned the chauffeur's cap and jacket and sat in the back of the room. The chauffeur gave a beautiful rendition of Einstein's speech and even answered a few questions expertly. 

Then a supremely pompous professor asked an extremely esoteric question about anti-matter formation, digressing here and there to let everyone in the audience know that he was nobody's fool. Without missing a beat, the chauffeur fixed the professor with a steely stare and said, "Sir, the answer to that question is so simple that I will let my chauffeur, who is sitting in the back, answer it for me."


Source: ajokeaday.com

Nice poem!!

Ladies and gentlemen, hobos and tramps, 

Bug-eyed mosquitoes and bowlegged ants! 

I'm about to tell you a story I've never heard before, 

So pull up a chair and sit on the floor. 

Admission is free, so pay at the door. 

One fine day, in the middle of the night, 

two, dead boys got up to fight. 

Back to back, they faced each other, 

drew their swords and shot each other. 

A deaf policeman heard the noise, 

and saved the lives of the two dead boys. 

If you don't believe my lies are true, 

ask the blind man, he saw it too!


Source: ajokeaday.com

Well this is a reality...!!

We spend the first twelve months of our children's lives teaching them to walk and talk, and the next Twenty-four years telling them to sit down and shut up!

Source: ajokeaday.com

Is this the new way of checking drunken driving? ;)

A juggler, driving to his next performance, is stopped by the police. "What are those machetes doing in your car?" asks the cop.

"I juggle them in my act."

"Oh, yeah? Says the doubtful cop. "Let's see you do it.” The juggler gets out and starts tossing and catching the knives. Another man driving by slows down to watch.

"Wow" says the passer-by. "I'm glad I quit drinking. Look at the test they're giving now!


Source: www.ajokeaday.com

50 Signs You Might Be an Entrepreneur

Source: http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/232451..

Entrepreneurs are a unique group of people. Not only do they think differently; they act differently. They draw on personality traits, habits and mind-sets to come up with ideas that straddle the line between insanity and genius. But just because you’re an original thinker and came up with an idea to replace gasoline in cars doesn’t mean you’re cut out to be an entrepreneur. 
If you ever wondered if you were an entrepreneur, check out the following list. You may not have all these traits or skills, yet if you have some, this is a pretty good indicator that you have what it takes. 
1. You come from a family of individuals who just couldn't work for someone else. Your parents worked for themselves. Though this isn't true for every entrepreneur (myself included), many have a family history with one or both parents having been self-employed.
2. You hate the status quo. You’re a person who is always questioning why people do the things they do. You strive to make things better and are willing to take action on it.
3. You’re self-confident. Have you ever met an entrepreneur who was pessimistic or self-loathing? After all, if you don’t have confidence, how can others believe in you?  Most entrepreneurs are very optimistic about everything around them.
4. You’re passionate. There will be times when you spend an excessive amount of time and do not make a dollar. It’s your passion that will keep you going.
5. You don’t take no for an answer. An entrepreneur never gives up -- ever.
6. You have the ability to create unlikely partnerships from out of nowhere because of your ability to connect the dots. People tend to gravitate toward you because you are likable. Many times this is because of your passion.  
7. You spend more time with your co-founder than your spouse or significant other.
8. You dropped out of college like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg.
9. The daily commute to your office is from the bedroom to the living room.
10. You were always a lousy employee and probably have been fired a lot. Don't worry; you're not alone. I personally have been fired several times in my life. Don't take it as a sign that you're a bad person. Sometimes it's in your DNA.
11. You’ve always resisted authority; that's why you've had a problem holding down a job.
12. You believe that there is more than one definition of job security: You realize that your job is safe as long as you are in control as opposed to relying on a boss who could ruin your career after one swift mistake.
13. Most of your wardrobe consists of T-shirts; some you probably got at SXSW. Others display your company's name or logo.
14. You have a competitive nature and are willing to lose. You always know that you can do something better.
15. You check GitHub when you wake up in the morning.
16. You ask to be paid in game tickets, shoes or whatever else you love. There are just some things that are better than money, right?
17. Your idea of a holiday is a working day without anything interfering with the tasks you really need to get done.
18. You’re unemployable, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Life skills are more valuable than the office politics commonly found at 9-to-5 gigs.
19. You work more than 60 hours a week; yet you earned more money at an hourly job when you were in high school.
20. You want to be in control and in command of your own company. You typically like overseeing most things that go on at your company.
21. You see opportunities everywhere. For example, you walk into a building and are curious about its worth or the companies inside.
22. The word “pitch” no longer has an association with baseball.
23. Your take a personality test, like one offered by the Enneagram Institute, and end up with a result calling you a "reformer type," someone purposeful, self-controlled and perfectionist.
24. You recognize that the best seats at your favorite coffee shops are those closest to power outlets.
25. You’re a logical thinker with ideas about how to correct problems and the overall situation.
26. Speaking of problem solving, have you checked to see if there's an app for that? Perhaps you've already begun to create a business model and the software architecture to see if it’s feasible.
27. You’re a people person. You have no problem communicating with people.
28. You regularly quote Steve Jobs mainly to keep yourself from falling to pieces.
29. You sold stuff as a kid like at a lemonade stand. Heck, when there were class sales, you were probably one of the top sellers. 
30. You get more SMS alerts from people you follow on Twitter than from actual friends listed in your address book.
31. You’re a self-starter, meaning you don’t give up on a project until it’s completed.
32. No matter what you do on a daily basis, you always think of it in terms of delivering a return on investment.
33. Your dress code is shabby chic and your suit is just collecting dust. You prefer T-shirts and jeans over a suit any day.
34. You’re unrealistic. As an inventor or innovator, you kind of have to be this way.
35. You think outside of the box. If not, what will change?
36. You’re a charming and charismatic person.
37. Rules don’t apply to you. We’re not talking about breaking the law. Instead, you believe in efficiency and will bend rules to make things run smoothly.
38. You realize that you can’t do everything alone. You have an idea and can promote it but also know that you’re not skilled at every task of running a business.
39. You’re very opinionated. That's another reason you got fired a lot.
40. You’re unpredictable. As an entrepreneur, you know how quickly things can change. Thankfully, you're ready and willing to make adjustments.
41. You enjoy being with a group but don't relish much being alone. You probably get most energetic when working with groups of more than four people.
42. You’re determined. You have to make the impossible possible.
43. You have the support of your friends and family. These are the people who get you. And they’ll be there to support you along the way.
44. It’s normal for you to take a nap under your desk to catch up on sleep. After all, getting eight hours of sleep sometime between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. is antiquated.
45. You’ve done the market research. You know that just because you have an incredible idea doesn’t mean that it’s profitable. But you’ve already looked into whether customers will make the purchase.
46. You surround yourself with quality people -- not leeches who will bring you down.
47. You’re a bit out there. Having the ability to create something out of nothing takes a mad-genius type of person. Remember, people thought Albert Einstein was insane before he proved the theory of relativity.
48. Did you ever ask your family, friends or significant other to send you a calendar invite so that you could talk for all of five minutes?
49. You believe that your time is worth more than money.
50. During your most recent rant about growth hacking, your spouse or boyfriend (or girlfriend) totally understood what you were saying. 
Even if you don’t have all the above traits right now, you’ll probably develop more of them over time. After all, being an entrepreneur is a lifestyle, not a job or hobby.